Patents Issued in October 8, 2002
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Patent number: 6461221Abstract: A garment for enhancing the natural shape and size of a wearer's breasts includes left and right breast supporting cups with inflatable portions designed to direct the inflation inwardly toward a wearer's breasts while restricting expansion of the inflatable portions in an outward direction. Desirably, the inflatable portions are positioned to exert force primarily inwardly and upwardly against a lower portion of the wearer's breasts.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Myhaertbra, Inc.Inventors: Fred W. Stilwell, Denise R. Stilwell, Tricia M. Olsen
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Patent number: 6461222Abstract: There is provided a planarizing and polishing apparatus and a planarizing and polishing method for measuring the polishing conditions of a polishing work during the polishing process in view of obtaining a fault-free polishing work. The planarizing and polishing apparatus is provided with a detecting unit for detecting a change in surface reflectivity of the polishing work and a control unit for recognizing the additional polishing part of the polishing work based on the detected value from the detecting unit and then automatically generating, for the feedback purpose, the polishing conditions of the additional polishing part and the portion other than the additional polishing part.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Shuzo Sato
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Patent number: 6461223Abstract: A glass plate working machine comprises a cutting unit(1) for forming a cutting line on an unshaped glass plate(22) to break the unshaped glass plate(22), a grinding unit(2) for grinding an edge of the glass plate broken along the cutting line, a glass plate conveyer unit(4) for conveying the glass plate sequentially through the cutting unit(1) and the grinding unit(2), and control mean(CNT), connected to the cutting unit(1) and the grinding unit(2) for controlling the cutting unit(1) and the grinding unit(2), respectively.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Bando Kiko Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kazuaki Bando
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Patent number: 6461224Abstract: Methods for preparing semiconductor wafers are disclosed. A method includes rotating a semiconductor wafer in a vertical orientation, and the wafer having first and second opposing surfaces. The method further includes contacting each of the first and second opposing surfaces of the wafer with a cylindrical wafer preparation member so as to define a substantially linear contact area. The cylindrical wafer preparation members are disposed in an opposing relationship such that the contact areas are defined at corresponding locations on the first and second opposing surfaces. Then, the method includes controlling at least one wafer preparation parameter to obtain a variable wafer material removal rate as the contact areas defined on the first and second opposing surfaces are moved from a first position to a second position. The variable wafer material removal rate being formulated to provide the wafer with a substantially uniform thickness.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Lam Research CorporationInventors: David T. Frost, Oliver David Jones
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Patent number: 6461225Abstract: According to the present invention, the dishing of copper during chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) process can be significantly reduced, and in most instances eliminated, by the use of electroplated alloys of copper whereas the alloying metal forms a continuous solid solution with the copper. By forming electroplated alloys of copper with metals that form continuous solid solutions therewith, a deposition layer of such an alloy on the surface of a barrier metal layer allows for lowering the selectivity of the slurry polish used during the CMP process towards the alloy. The alloys of copper with metals that form a continuous solid solution in an electroplating process changes the oxidation characteristics, mechanical properties, electrical properties, stiffness parameters and hardness parameters of the copper. The change in these properties allows the alloy layer and barrier layer to be polished at an equivalent rate until the entire barrier layer has been polished.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Agere Systems Guardian Corp.Inventors: Sudhanshu Misra, Pradip Kumar Roy
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Patent number: 6461226Abstract: A method of polishing a wafer is disclosed. The wafer has formed thereon an oxide layer that has at least one via. A metal layer is formed on the oxide layer and in the via. The wafer is then polished against an outer portion of a polishing pad until the metal layer outside of the via has been removed. The outer portion has a first hardness. Next, the wafer is polished against an inner portion of the polishing pad. The inner portion of the polishing pad has a second hardness that is less than the first hardness.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignees: ProMos Technologies, Inc., Mosel Vitelic, Inc., Infineon Technologies AGInventor: Champion Yi
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Patent number: 6461227Abstract: A method for planarizing or polishing a memory or rigid disk is provided. The method comprises abrading at least a portion of the surface with a polishing system comprising (i) a polishing composition comprising water, an oxidizing agent, and a complexing agent selected from the group consisting of ammonia, halide ions, and mixtures thereof, and (ii) a polishing pad and/or an abrasive.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Cabot Microelectronics CorporationInventor: Mingming Fang
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Patent number: 6461228Abstract: A method of grinding the edge of a disc uses a grinding machine having mounted thereon a grooved grinding wheel, in which the groove is formed in situ using a forming wheel also mounted on the grinding machine. After a workpiece has been ground or after a succession of workpieces have been ground, re-engaging the grinding wheel and the forming wheel with the grinding wheel remaining in situ, to re-form the groove in the grinding wheel to correct for wear.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Unova U.K. LimitedInventors: Mark Andrew Stocker, Dermot Robert Falkner, Paul Martin Howard Morantz, Michael George Pierse
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Patent number: 6461229Abstract: Machine for machining an envelope surface of a cylindrical work piece includes a tubular cylindrical housing with a longitudinal axis and having an inner space extending from a first end of the housing, and with an axis offset from the housing axis, a shaft angularly displaceable in the inner space and provided with a recess, and a motor in the recess. A spindle is coupled to the motor and carries a first rotatable tool, a rotatable outer casing encloses the housing, and a lid is arranged for co-rotation with the casing and extends radially over the first end of housing with the lid having a central through opening with the peripheral surface. A second rotated tool is disposed on the peripheral surface, and a support device is adapted to hold the work piece between the tools. The shaft is arranged to cause the first tool to effect radial displacement relative to the second rotated tool.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Lidköping Machine Tools ABInventor: Mats Heijkenskjöld
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Patent number: 6461230Abstract: A method for changing the polishing selectivity ratio of slurry used in chemical-mechanical polishing. Barrier slurry and a diluent are mixed together at different ratios to produce a mixture containing different amounts of solvent, chemicals and polishing particles. Hence, a variety of polishing selectivity ratios between copper film or barrier layer and other materials is obtained. The mixture is transported to the polishing pad of a polishing station to carry out chemical-mechanical polishing.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: United Microelectronics Corp.Inventors: Teng-Chun Tsai, Hsueh-Chung Chen, Ming-Sheng Yang
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Patent number: 6461231Abstract: A pipeline treating apparatus (10) is disclosed which is used to clean the exterior of a pipeline (12) with high pressure air with entrained abrasive. The apparatus has an improved classifier and separator to separate the abrasive grit from lighter debris which includes a classifier and separator within a manifold duct (56) which returns the grit to a collection pan (40) for recovery and causes the lighter airborne dust to be removed through a return duct (58). A series of pressure relief filters (82) reduce the air pressure within a blast chamber (28) and resist debris escaping from the blast chamber past the triple seals (76, 78, 80). The blast nozzle assemblies (834) are attached to the nozzle oscillating frames by snap fittings (74) which avoids threaded connections which may become contaminated by the debris.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1994Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: CRC-Evans Rehabilitation Systems, Inc.Inventors: Sidney A. Taylor, Stanley J. Rogala, Andrzej Stenzel
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Patent number: 6461232Abstract: A toe web cutter has a pivoted inner hooked blade and stationary outer blades adjacent to the sides and end of the inner blade. Cutting edges on the adjacent blades produce an elongated cut to remove the web from between the toes of a carcass. The stationary outer blades allow the tool to be aligned before the cut is made by placing the stationary blades in contact with the web at the desired location for the cut. The inner blade is pivoted by a trigger-operated pneumatic drive mechanism, which includes a piston and a drive rod. The drive rod is connected through a link to drive the inner blade. The link produces a side load on the drive rod that is counteracted by a wheel mounted on the end of the drive rod and by a fixed reaction plate that supports the wheel as it rolls.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Jarvis Products CorporationInventor: Peter Gwyther
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Patent number: 6461233Abstract: A low air volume exhaust hood is based on the concept of zone laminar flow through the hood as the hood sash is raised to different levels. Laminar flow is achieved through a plurality of plenum zones constructed at the rear of the cabinet. Preferably the zones are created by utilizing different sized openings in a rear baffle of the cabinet which presents the plenum chamber. Alternatively, distinct independent plenums may be formed and coupled with a common exhaust structure. By utilizing laminar flow which is directed through different zones corresponding to different open positions of the sash, a lower volume of air can be moved through the hood while achieving desired levels of evacuation. Performance of the hood is further enhanced by a novel air foil design at the floor of the hood which promotes a sweeping flow of air across the floor.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Labconco CorporationInventors: Kevin C. Gilkison, Larry G. Hambleton, Gary P. Roepke, Yu Rich Ma, Kermit W. Dyer
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Patent number: 6461234Abstract: A recreational vehicle wall structure is provided with an access opening permitting servicing of an appliance, such as a refrigerator, from the exterior of the vehicle. The opening can be sized to allow the appliance to project into the opening to increase the usable interior volume of the vehicle. A cover for closing the opening can include ventilating openings.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 1999Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Electrolux Siegen GmbHInventor: Adolf Kretzer
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Patent number: 6461235Abstract: A temporary vent opening cover is disclosed which is securable over a vent opening in a floor or other surface during building construction to prevent debris from entering the vent opening and accumulating in duct work associated therewith. The cover includes a generally flat cover plate which is sized and shaped to cover the vent opening. The cover plate is spaced outwardly from the surface when the vent opening cover is secured over the vent opening. A plurality of air passages allow air to flow past the cover plate between the duct work and the workspace. A layer of air filter material covers the air passages and prevents debris from passing therethrough. A portion of cover plate may be dedicated to the display of promotional indicia.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Rutland, Inc.Inventors: Jay B. Rutler, Spencer B. Hawerlander, Tony Robert Plunkett
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Patent number: 6461236Abstract: A roof vent suitable for a conservatory roof of the type comprising glazing bars supporting glazing panels therebetween, the roof vent comprises a surround mountable between a pair of glazing bars and a cover for the surround and hingedly connected thereto.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Ultraframe (UK) LimitedInventor: Christopher Richardson
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Patent number: 6461237Abstract: A computer readable program product stores a program for a ball-playing type game enabling continuous action at the time a player catches a ball in a ball-playing game to be expressed smoothly. When a fielder starts a catching action, a difference between a position of a glove at the time the fielder catches the ball by a group of motion and an arrival position of the ball is calculated. The position of the glove at one motion based on a group of motion for catching in the catching motion of the fielder is corrected in accordance with the difference between the position of the glove and the arrival position. Other motion with the position of the glove corrected is displayed, and the position of the glove of the fielder is matched to the arrival position of the ball when the fielder catches the ball in the motion after correction.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Square Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tomoaki Yoshinobu, Kazuhiko Iino
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Patent number: 6461238Abstract: The present invention describes a portable simulation game apparatus that permits a user operating the game apparatus to move or control a three dimensional object. The movement or current position of the three dimensional object is sensed by a plurality of sensors and transmitted to a circuit board or a control means. The control means may then relate the movement or position of the three dimensional object to pre-programmed images displayed in front of the three dimensional object, on a display means. Typically, the pre-programmed images being displayed represent a race or a track for which the three dimensional object, being a vehicle, may interact therewith. To move the three dimensional object, the user tilts or moves the game apparatus in a specific direction the user wants the object to move.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Rehco, LLCInventors: Steven Rehkemper, Ryan Kratz
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Patent number: 6461239Abstract: The music action game machine comprises: a main body; an operation input device disposed on a front side of the main body so as to be adjacent to hands of a player facing the front side of the main body, the operation input device having a plurality of operation members; a storage device for storing data of a musical composition and data of a performance procedure associated with the musical composition; a music play device for playing the musical composition based on the data stored in the storage device; an operation instructing device for giving the player a visual instruction to operate the operation members in accordance with progress of a play of the musical composition based on the data stored in the storage device; an effect producing device for producing a performance effect in response to a performance operation performed by the player to each of the operation members; an estimation device for estimating the performance operation of the player based on a relationship between the performance procedurType: GrantFiled: November 8, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Konami Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yuichiro Sagawa, Kiyoshi Mizuki, Hideki Hashimoto
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Patent number: 6461240Abstract: A game played in conjunction with card games and including an auxiliary bonus feature and method of playing. The game is playable in conjunction with standard card games, such as Poker or Blackjack, or other card games, using one or more standard decks of 52 cards or representations thereof and optionally one or more Jokers added to the deck or to each deck. The game is further playable, for example, on a gaming table by players and a dealer using cards, or on a computer, other electronic medium, or slot machine using representations of various features of the game. At the time of ante in the card game, each player participating in the card game optionally selects whether to participate in the auxiliary bonus portion of the game by making a special bonus bet, which is placed in a special bonus jackpot. Play then proceeds according to the rules of the underlying card game.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Thomas Francis Perkins
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Patent number: 6461241Abstract: The present invention involves a gaming device with a primary game scheme which includes one or more symbol generators and one or more secondary games. When the symbol generator generates one or more predetermined symbols, the gaming device operates one or more secondary games. If the player reaches a win condition in one or more secondary games, the gaming device provides the player with an award. This type of game scheme adds excitement to bonus rounds and increases player entertainment.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: IGTInventors: Bayard S. Webb, Anthony J. Baerlocher
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Patent number: 6461242Abstract: An operating device for use with an image processing apparatus which displays an image on a display screen and controls the image includes a hand-holdable housing having a shape capable of being grasped by a left hand and a right hand. A first operating device and a second operating device are formed on the housing. One of the first operating device and the second operating device is operable for use as a first moving direction designation input device which designates a moving direction of the image and the other of the first operating device and the second operating device is operable for use as an action designation input device which designates other actions of the image.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Genyo Takeda, Kenichiro Ashida, Shigeru Miyamoto, Yasunari Nishida
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Patent number: 6461243Abstract: Coil spring assemblies 9 are provided for a damper mechanism of a clutch disk assembly 1 that has an increased life span. The clutch disk assembly 1 includes an input rotary member 2, an output rotary member 3 and an elastic coupling portion 4. The elastic coupling portion 4 includes a plurality of the coil spring assemblies 9. The input rotary member 2 basically includes a clutch disk 11, a clutch plate 12 and a retaining plate 13. The output rotary member 3 basically includes a hub flange 6, a hub 7 and a low-rigidity damper 8. The coil spring assemblies 9 are configured to elastically couple plates 12 and 13 to the hub flange 6 in the rotating direction. Each coil spring assembly 9 includes a coil spring 41 and a pair of spring seats 42 and 43. The spring seats 42 and 43 are engaged with the wire end surfaces of the coil spring 41, respectively, such that the coil spring 41 cannot rotate around its central axis P—P.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Exedy CorporationInventor: Hiroshi Uehara
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Patent number: 6461244Abstract: The invention relates constant velocity fixed universal joints A fixed constant-velocity ratio universal joint, comprising an outer joint part, an inner joint part, a ball cage and a plurality of balls. The ball cage is disposed between the inner and outer joint parts and includes windows in which respective balls are received and constrained such that their centers lie in a common plane. At least two opposing windows are wider than said outer joint part lands to accommodate receiving the lands during assembly. The cage includes substantially spherical inner and outer surfaces which engage the land surfaces on the inner and outer joint parts respectively. The ball cage also includes a relief groove between at least one pair of adjacent windows thereby providing a reduced circumference for the ball cage outer surface in the region of the groove.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: GKN Automotive, Inc.Inventors: Erik Harry Meyer, Joachim H. Proelss
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Patent number: 6461245Abstract: A golf improvement system comprises a club and course registration form containing information about a course including par of each hole and distance from a tee to a green; a player score card for recording a round of golf played by the player on the course, the score card including a plurality of circles corresponding to each hole, each circle when filled in corresponding to a data entry concerning the hole being played; a computerized database containing information from the club and registration form, the player score card, and information on the player's peer group; and a report generated by the computerized database and containing statistics on the player's playing skills.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 1999Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Thomas H. Morgan
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Patent number: 6461246Abstract: A device for putt-practice is disclosed. This device has a first casing opened at its opposite ends, with a speed sensor provided at each end of the first casing and a ball inlet formed at one end of the first casing. A second casing, opened at its opposite ends, is axially connected to an end of the first casing, with a transparent window provided at the upper portion of the second casing for guiding a backstroke movement of a putter during an act of putting. This second casing also has a displaying means for displaying a target putting distance preset by a user, a practical backstroke distance of the putter, and putting results after the act of putting.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: KGP Co., Ltd.Inventors: Dong-Min Lee, Bum-Jae Lee
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Patent number: 6461247Abstract: A golf putting practice apparatus for improving one's stroke and accuracy in putting a golf ball with a putter, comprising: two cord positioning and holding members, each member having an inner face portion, and adapted to hold portions of the length of cord in spaced parallel linear alignment between the members; and, a length of cord extending between the two inner face portions of the cord holding and positioning members. The golf ball may be initially positioned and subsequently putted between the parallel portions of the cord; thereby enabling one to better judge the linearity of the stroke of the putter and the accuracy of the putt by reference to the portions of the cord held in parallel and spaced alignment on each side of the ball. A method of using the above apparatus is disclosed which includes the step of applying two strips of colored tape to top portions of the putter in a position which vertically corresponds to the position of the cord therebelow.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: James Douglas Riddell
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Patent number: 6461248Abstract: An electronic golf ball putter, adapted to indicate when the putter is aligned with a target, comprising, a golf putting iron for hitting a golf ball; a power source; a communicator; a transmitter of communications from the communicator; and an indicator capable of indicating alignment between the golf putter iron and the target in response to the transmitter.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1999Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Robert V. Gross
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Patent number: 6461249Abstract: A weighting device for use on a golf club head as during swinging of the club, comprising in combination, a receptacle having an opening via which the club head is received into thpe receptacle, a retainer carried on the receptacle to be fastened in a position for retaining the receptacle in fitting relation to the club head, and weighting structure carried by the receptacle to add substantial weight to the club head weight, for use as in club head swinging.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Raymond A. Liberatore
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Patent number: 6461250Abstract: The invention relates to an interchangeable part of a golf putter, as well as the golf putter head comprising the interchangeable part. The interchangeable part including the putter striking surface being constituted by a band shaped material being mounted on a tension bar providing a chosen and prefixed tension to the band material at the striking surface. The band-shaped material constitutes a loop and the tension bar is provided at least partially inside the band shaped material thus being adapted to apply a tension to the band, the tension bar also includes protrusions on each side of the striking surface thus defining a recess behind the band at the striking surface, and the putter head comprises holding means for receiving the stretched band and tension bar and locking them into position in the putter head.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Clyve ASInventor: Jon Klyve
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Patent number: 6461251Abstract: In a solid golf ball of four or multi-layer construction, comprising a center core, an outer core, an intermediate layer, and a cover, the outer core has a higher Shore D hardness than the center core, and the solid core has a diameter of up to 27 mm. The ball has improved feel, click, durability and flight performance.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Bridgestone Sports Co, Ltd.Inventors: Hisashi Yamagishi, Takashi Maruko, Yutaka Masutani
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Patent number: 6461252Abstract: In a solid golf ball comprising a solid core, a cover inner layer and a cover outer layer, the cover inner layer is composed mainly of a thermoplastic elastomer free of an ionomer resin, and the cover outer layer contains 50-100% by weight of an ionomer resin. The difference in Shore D hardness between the inner and outer layers is within 2 Shore units. While maintaining superior flight performance and durability, the inventive ball has spin receptivity close to wound golf balls.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1998Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hisashi Yamagishi, Hiroshi Higuchi, Yasushi Ichikawa, Junji Hayashi
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Patent number: 6461253Abstract: A golf ball approaching zero land area is disclosed herein. The golf ball has an innersphere with a plurality of lattice members. Each of the plurality of lattice members has an apex and the golf ball of the present invention conforms with the 1.68 inches requirement for USGA approved golf balls. The interconnected lattice members form a plurality of hexagons and pentagons in the preferred embodiment. The preferred embodiment has a parting line that alternates upward and downward along adjacent rows of hexagons.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventor: Steven S. Ogg
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Patent number: 6461254Abstract: A golfing aid for golfers who are unable to stoop which allows a golfer to insert a golf ball and tee into the aid in a contacting relationship so that the tee protrudes from the base of the aid a preset distance. The aid has an elongated handle to allow the ball and tee to be pushed into position so that the tee penetrates the ground while the ball is captively held in contact with the tee. The handle is next released and contact with the ball ceases so that the aid may be removed from the ball and tee without dislodging the ball from the tee.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventors: Bruce Ballett, Osman Tahirovic, Harold Whittaker
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Patent number: 6461255Abstract: A baseball training aid includes a hollow tubular member rotatably positioned on an adjustable height stand, for use in practice batting. The hollow tubular member is adjustably positioned to guide a bat during the initial movement of the bat by the batter. The apparatus can be configured as a bat guide, as a ball support, and for aligning the batting swing of a batter. A swing tube is pivotally secured to the base of the powertube apparatus, and may be adjustably positioned in relation to the hollow tubular member. A ball may be placed upon either the swing tube or on the hollow tubular member. The apparatus improves the power developed during a swing, by guiding the initial part of a swing in a forward direction, before the bat is rotated to meet the ball. The apparatus may be adjusted to suit the height and batting stance of the batter, and the hollow tubular member may be rotatably positioned and releasably secured to suit the needs of a variety of batters.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Robert F. Smith
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Patent number: 6461256Abstract: A basketball shooting training device is provided for training a player to use the proper upper torso alignment and relative leg position when shooting a basketball by maintaining the shooter's back and head, from buttocks to the top of the head in vertical alignment, at a 90° angle with respect to the floor. Also, the invention forces the use of the legs in the set shot for developing novice players' skills. The support rod removably attaches around the forehead via an elastic, adjustable forehead strap attached to an upper end of the rod. The rod continues down the neck and spine, and concludes at the buttocks region. A feet immobilizing apparatus is attached at a lower end of the support rod so as to maintain a player's feet in proper position during consecutive basketball shots.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Raymond J. Popeck
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Patent number: 6461257Abstract: Collapsible structures are disclosed having a central panel, a first support panel disengageably connected to the left side of the central panel, and a second support panel disengageably connected to the right side of the central panel. Each of the central panel and support panels includes a foldable frame member having a folded and an unfolded orientation, and a fabric material substantially covering the frame member.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Patent Category Corp.Inventor: Yu Zheng
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Patent number: 6461258Abstract: A net system for volleyball, badminton, and the like includes first and second piers and a net with top and bottom supporting cables extending between the piers. The piers each include a base, net pole, and net tensioning spring. The bases each include longitudinal and lateral platform members, and a ground anchor. Each net pole is removably attached to its base and extends up from it. The net tensioning springs are cantilevered leaf springs, each removably attached to its base and extending up and away from its net pole. The net supporting cables pass through the net poles for attachment to the springs. The springs are flexible toward and away from their net poles in the plane of the net.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Michael M. Vacanti
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Patent number: 6461259Abstract: The table tennis bat with adjusting gravity mechanism of the present invention, whose center of gravity can be varied dependent on player's habitual behavior or usual practice to be suitable for each table tennis player's demand, comprises a blade body, an upper handgrip part, a lower handgrip part, an adjusting gravity mechanism, and an adjusting knob. Which adjusting gravity mechanism is included a hollow rectangular frame, a lead screw and a slider block. The slider block is used as counterweigh when removed capably to vary the center of gravity of table tennis bat of the present invention. Accordingly, when the slider block is driven to have a forward displacement the center of gravity of table tennis bat of the present invention is varied forward. Similarly, when the slider block is driven to have a backward displacement the center of gravity of table tennis bat of the present invention is varied backward.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Kuang Tsu Li
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Patent number: 6461260Abstract: A metal baseball or softball bat may be improved both for durability and performance by selectively placing a layer of fiber reinforced composite material around portions of the bat. In one embodiment, the barrel portion of the bat may have a fiber reinforced composite layer directly laid up upon the metal bat frame. In a second embodiment, the barrel portion of the bat may include an outer metal sleeve placed about the metal bat frame, with an exterior fiber reinforced composite shell being formed on the outer metal sleeve. In a third embodiment, an intermediate portion of the bat adjacent a zone of maximum bending stress may be reinforced by the placement of a fiber reinforced composite outer layer on the metal frame of the bat adjacent the area of maximum bending stress.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Worth, Inc.Inventor: Brian E. Higginbotham
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Patent number: 6461261Abstract: An apparatus and a method control a continuously variable transmission of a motor vehicle which includes a power transmitting member for power transmission by use of friction. A controller of the apparatus detects slippage of the power transmitting member in a predetermined period of running of the vehicle, and increases a clamping pressure that is applied to the power transmitting member when slippage of the power transmitting member is detected. The controller also stores a state of increase of the clamping pressure in a memory, and increases the clamping pressure applied to the power transmitting member in accordance with a previous state of increase of the clamping pressure that was stored in the memory in a previous period of operation of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoshiaki Yamamoto, Tadashi Tamura, Daisuke Inoue, Katsumi Kono, Hiroji Taniguchi
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Patent number: 6461262Abstract: A working oil filter device for a continuously variable transmission including a primary pulley and a secondary pulley, between which a belt is made to run. The filter device comprises: a secondary pressure adjust valve for adjusting the pulley groove width thereof; a clutch pressure adjust valve for adjusting the clutch pressure; and a filter for filtering the working oil. The device can comprise a primary pressure adjust valve is provided, in place of the clutch pressure adjust valve. Further, The device can comprise a lubrication pressure adjust valve and a bypass oil passage for returning a drain oil.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hajime Kashiwase
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Patent number: 6461263Abstract: A silent chain drive mechanism includes a silent chain for transmitting power between a larger sprocket and a smaller sprocket, wherein the inside flanks of one link plate of the silent chain are profiled to project outward of the outside flanks of the adjacent link plates, and tooth flank configurations of the larger and smaller sprockets are formed by involute curves arranged to satisfy the expression A1>Ac≧A2, where A1 is a pressure angle of the smaller sprocket, A2 is a pressure angle of the larger sprocket, and Ac is a pressure angle of the inside flanks of teeth of the link plates. With this arrangement, the chordal action of the silent chain is suppressed at both the larger sprocket side and the smaller sprocket side, thereby reducing vibrations and noises accompanied with the chordal action and improving the driving performance and durability.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.Inventors: Kenshi Suzuki, Masatoshi Sonoda, Hiroshi Horie
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Patent number: 6461264Abstract: An endless power transmission belt comprising a tension section; a cushion section; a load-carrying section disposed between the tension section and cushion section; and a fabric layer bonded to the outer surface of the belt, the improvement comprising a coating layer on the fabric layer of a carboxylated acrylonitrile rubber.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber CompanyInventor: Jeffery Dwight Lofgren
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Patent number: 6461265Abstract: A gear drive apparatus includes a first shaft and a second shaft concentric to the first shaft. First and second planetary gear systems are provided for driving the first and second shafts in synchronized rotation with respect to one another with a primary drive input and for selectively driving the first and second shafts in unsynchronized rotation with respect to one another in response to a secondary drive input. Each of the first and second planetary gear systems include a ring gear, a sun gear positioned within the ring gear, and a plurality of planetary gears positioned within the ring gear and between the ring gear and the sun gear. Each ring gear can include inwardly directed gear teeth portions identical to one another. Each plurality of planetary gears can be identical to one another, and each sun gear can be identical to one another.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Ex-Cello Machine Tools, Inc.Inventors: John Graham, Robert B. Raible
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Patent number: 6461266Abstract: The differential engine comprises a motor, a torque conversion stage, and a loading mechanism. The torque conversion stage includes first and second differential stages which are coupled together with a pair of shafts, with the shafts rotating in opposite directions. The first differential stage comprises an input shaft which is coupled to the output shaft of the motor, and first and second output shafts which are coupled to the respective shafts. The second differential stage comprises an output coupled to the output drive shaft, and first and second input shafts which are coupled to the respective shafts. The second differential stage includes a gear mechanism which applies a rotational torque to the output drive shaft when a difference occurs between the rotational speeds for the shafts. The rotational speeds of the shafts are varied by loading one or both of the shafts.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: Ervin Weisz
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Patent number: 6461267Abstract: An electronically controlled axle assembly having an electronically controllable valve secured to the differential case to control pressure within a hydraulically actuated clutch pack there within. The clutch pack operates to selectively couple a pair of shafts.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Dana CorporationInventor: Perry Paielli
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Patent number: 6461268Abstract: A continuously variable transmission device of the type having planetary members (25) in rolling contact with radially inner (23) and outer (26) races each comprising two axially spaced parts, with control means (30) for selectively varying the axial separation of the two parts of one race and thus the radial position of the planetary members (25) in rolling contact therewith, in which there are provided means sensitive to the torque applied to a drive-transmitting member of the transmission operable both to determine the compensating variation in the separation of the two parts of the other race and thus the transmission ratio of the device and to vary the forces exchanged between the planets (25) and the races (23, 26) normal to the interface between them.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Orbital Traction Ltd.Inventor: Peter James Milner
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Patent number: 6461269Abstract: A forward-speed/reverse-speed changeover mechanism 6, serving as a motive-force connection/disconnection mechanism, is accommodated into a housing member 8 fixed to a casing 1. To the forward-speed/reverse-speed changeover mechanism 6 an input end of a primary shaft 3 is connected. The housing member 8 rotatably supports the primary shaft 3 via a bearing member 11. On an imaginary line intersecting the primary shaft 3 perpendicularly and passing through the bearing member 11, a load-receiving element 1b, 8b is provided between the housing member 8 and the casing 1. The tension of a belt 17 is received by the load-receiving element 1b, 8b. As a result, it is possible to provide a bearing structure of a continuously variable transmission enabling holding the bearing members of the primary and secondary shafts at their regular positions against the tension of the belt and maintaining an optimum belt-alignment, thereby enhancing the durability of the continuously variable transmission.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Atsushi Tonohata, Minoru Sawayama, Yoshihiro Ikushima
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Patent number: 6461270Abstract: A pair of power rollers which is gripped between an input disk and an output disk and transmits torque by friction, is supported rotatably by a pair of trunnions. The upper ends and lower ends of the trunnions are respectively connected by links, and the power roller is prevented from being driven out from between the input disk and output disk by the grip force. When the trunnions and the power rollers are displaced by the servopistons in the trunnion axis direction in mutually opposite directions, the trunnions and power rollers gyrate around the trunnion axis as pivot, and a speed change will occur. Links are provided with slots which lengthen in the trunnion axis direction, and are supported in the transmission case free to displace in the trunnion axis direction via pins inserted in the slots.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toshikazu Oshidari