Patents Issued in December 31, 2002
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Patent number: RE37946Abstract: A projection exposure apparatus carries out scan exposure with illumination flux of slit(s) by moving a mask and a substrate in a direction of one-dimension at synchronized speeds with each other. The mask is inclined with a predetermined angle relative to the substrate in the direction of one-dimensional movement. The substrate is also moved in a direction of optical axis of projection optical system when moved in the direction of one-dimension, such that a central part of transfer area on the substrate is located on a best focal plane of projection optical system upon scan exposure.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Kenji Nishi
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Patent number: RE37947Abstract: Novel pharmaceutically/cosmetically-active aromatic polyenic compounds have the structural formula (I): and are useful for the treatment of a wide variety of disease states, whether human or veterinary, for example dermatological, rheumatic, respiratory, cardiovascular, bone and ophthalmological disorders, as well as for the treatment of mammalian skin and hair conditions/disorders.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Centre International de Recherches Dermatologiques GaldermaInventors: Jean-Michel Bernardon, Phillippe Nedoncelle
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Patent number: RE37948Abstract: Disclosed in a video game of enhanced realism in which actual combat is closely simulated. The game is so adapted that an enemy character on a display screen may launch an attack against a player character on the same screen, even while the player character is the process of inputting a command, at elapse of a set time period specific to the enemy character. The attack is made without an interruption in the flow of time of the game.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1999Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Square Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hironobu Sakaguchi, Hiroyuki Itou
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Patent number: RE37949Abstract: A process for producing granules of anionic surfactant, preferably PAS by in situ neutralisation of a precursor acid to form the surfactant, heating the surfactant to a temperature in excess of 130° C. and subsequently cooling the to provide surfactant granules is disclosed. Detergent compositions containing such granules are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1999Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Lever Brothers Company, division of Conopco, Inc.Inventors: William Derek Emery, Kenneth Metcalfe, Peter James Tollington
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Patent number: RE37950Abstract: A biodegradable polymer is provided for use in providing syringeable, in-situ forming, solid biodegradable implants for animals. The polymer is placed into the animal in liquid form and cures to form the implant in-situ. A thermoplastic system to form said implant comprises the steps of dissolving a non-reactive polymer in biocompatible solvent to form a liquid, placing the liquid within the animal, and allowing the solvent to dissipate to produce the implant. An alternative, thermosetting system comprises mixing together effective amounts of a liquid acrylic ester terminated, biodegradable prepolymer and a curing agent, placing the liquid mixture within an animal and allowing the prepolymer to cure to form the implant. Both systems provide a syringeable, solid biodegradable delivery system by the addition of an effective level of biologically active agent to the liquid before injection into the body.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Atrix LaboratoriesInventors: Richard L. Dunn, James P. English, Donald R. Cowsar, David P. Vanderbilt
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Patent number: RE37951Abstract: The present invention is directed to compositions for use as additives in the automotive industry, which compositions contain waste powder prime and a plasticizer selected from the group consisting of 2-ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate, diisoheptyl phthalate, a linear phthalate based upon C7-C9 alcohols, a mixture of esters containing a minimum of 55 percent of diesters and a maximum of 20 percent dibenzoate, a mixture of esters containing a minimum of 60 percent of diesters and a maximum of 30 percent dibenzoate and dipropylene glycol dibenzoate and automotive sealants which contain waste powder prime, a plasticizer selected from the group consisting of 2-ethylhexyl diphenyl phosphate, diisoheptyl phthalate, a linear phthalate based upon C7-C9 alcohols, a mixture of esters containing a minimum of 55 percent of diesters and a maximum of 20 percent dibenzoate, a mixture of esters containing a minimum of 60 percent of diesters and a maximum of 30 percent dibenzoate and dipropylene glycol dibenzoate and automotiveType: GrantFiled: January 19, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Henkel CorporationInventors: James F. Hubert, Richard A. Rinka
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Patent number: RE37952Abstract: The present invention relates to the Grb3-3 protein, nucleotide sequence encoding this protein, and variants thereof, such as antisense sequences. The invention further relates to vectors comprising these sequences and to methods for inducing cell death.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Aventis Pharma S.A.Inventors: Fabien Schweighoffer, Bruno Tocque
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Patent number: RE37953Abstract: The present invention has an object to provide a filter circuit for communication generative an effective digital output as well as an analog output in a filter circuit of low electric power consumption. The function speed of an A/D converting circuit is minimized by intermittently holding an analog output signal according to an experience that peak detection can be performed by partially sampling the signal after the acquisition.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1999Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignees: NTT Do Co Mo Inc., Yozan, Inc.Inventors: Guoliang Shou, Chanming Zhou, Makoto Yamamoto, Mamoru Sawahashi, Fumiyuki Adachi, Sunao Takatori
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Patent number: 6499139Abstract: A face guard (10) configured for protecting the face (F) of a baseball player (P) from a baseball (B) when the guard (10) is donned by the player (P) is disclosed. The face guard (10) broadly includes an open framework (12), compressible padding (14) connected to the framework (12), and a strap assembly (16) coupled to the framework (12). The framework (12) is configured to prevent a baseball (B) from contacting the face (F) of the player (P) when the guard (10) is donned by the player (P) without restricting the player's generally horizontal line of sight. The compressible padding (14) is configured to contact the player (P) and thereby space the framework (12) from the face (F) when the guard (10) is donned. The strap assembly (16) is configured to both position and retain the framework (12) on the face (F) of the player (P) when the guard (10) is donned.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2002Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: 13-31-Sport, Inc.Inventors: Chrisanthia Brown, Billie Jean Smith
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Patent number: 6499140Abstract: The present invention provides a bib having an improved pocket. The bib has a body panel, a pocket panel forming a pocket space between the body panel and the pocket panel, and a third panel joined to the pocket panel. The third panel includes a flexible member joined thereto that helps to maintain the pocket space in an open configuration once the third panel is folded into the pocket space.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Joyce M. Benjamin, George C. Dobrin, Raymond S. Hamilton, David W. Prichard, Henry W. McCusker, Adam M. Warren
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Patent number: 6499141Abstract: A multidimensional camouflage outer wear garment system including garments made of various combinations of two-dimensional and three-dimensional camouflage material. The two-dimensional and three-dimensional camouflage materials are positioned within garments so as to distort the smooth line silhouette of the wearer, thereby enhancing the total effectiveness of the camouflage. Zones of three-dimensional material are disposed across limited selected regions of the garments to maintain continuity of silhouette distortion while two-dimensional material is disposed over predefined extended regions adjacent the zones of three-dimensional material.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Shelter-Pro, LLCInventor: James C. Egnew
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Patent number: 6499142Abstract: A woman's shirts having an omasum-inner-wall like textile structure, defined as a bulbous unit above a planar base, to render desired elasticity to a shirt. The shirt of this invention is excellent in resilient elasticity, original shape retainability and shape stability. The shirts of this invention is free size, one size fitting all. The shirt is much lighter than average women's winter shirts. Thermal insulation is adequate. Packing size is much smaller than comparable women's winter wear. The material for these shirts is composed of wool and polyester which are treated with hand followed by heat treatment with heat and moisture to make the omasum-like structure. The shirts of this invention emphasize the bodyline of women's breast and decorates the line with embossing to render a more sensual appreance.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Jong Chul Lee
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Patent number: 6499143Abstract: A hospital gown having closable openings on left and right sides to provide:access for physician examination to selectable portions of a patient's torso from either side, while substantially maintaining a cover over the unexamined portions.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Ann Garza
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Patent number: 6499144Abstract: A three-component band has two outer rows of tighter contraction than a middle row which may be offset from the tops of the outer rows in order to provide a groove or recess. Stitching or the like may be sewn into the groove or recess and the top of such stitching may be flush with the tops of the outer two rows. In some instances no groove, recess or stitching are resorted to. The outer two rows are of generally greater contraction than the middle row such that the middle row may flex to a greater degree than the outer rows thereby forming a band for association with garments including hats, caps and underwear or the like. A moisture absorbing material, such as cotton, may be used in conjunction with the three-component band in order to provide absorption for perspiration or other moisture. A hat of generally non-stretchable and stretchable material may be attached to the three-component band.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2002Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Suen Ching Yan
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Patent number: 6499145Abstract: A hat for enhancing visual acquisition of a wearer, comprising a bowl portion for fitting the head of the wearer; a brim portion attached to the bowl portion and extending from the bowl portion; and a first rechargeable glowing portion affixed to at least one of the bowl portion and the brim portion for emitting light energy. More than one rechargeable glowing portions may be added to the hat in various areas as desired. The invention could be alternatively described as a method of enhancing the visual acquisition of a hatted person, comprising the steps of: (a)attaching a rechargeable glowing material to a hat; (b)charging the rechargeable glowing material by placing the hat near a light source; (c)removing the hat from the light source; and (d)wearing the hat away from the light source, so that the rechargeable glowing material gives off light.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Ebsco Industries, Inc.Inventor: Lori A. Kates
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Patent number: 6499146Abstract: An apparatus comprising a first curved band portion and a second curved band portion. The first curved band portion has a first end, a second end, an inner curved side and an outer curved side. The first curved band portion defines a passageway between the first end and the second end of the first curved band portion. The passageway has a first opening. The second curved band portion has a first end, a second end, an inner curved side and an outer curved side. A motion-restraint portion is proximate to the first end of the second curved band portion. The first end of the second curved band portion is insertable into the first opening of the passageway of the first curved band portion. The first curved band portion has a range of motion within the passageway of the second curved band portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Gray Matter Holdings LLCInventors: Dean Bavetta, Paul Kay, Brian E. Le Gette, Gary F. Prokop, Steve Remy
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Patent number: 6499147Abstract: Protective headgear comprises a rigid shell with face pads which may be released and removed while the headgear is still on a person's head. A protective chin guard may be attached to the headgear by way of the face pads. The chin guard comprises a substantially rigid shell with a removeable insert made of a flexible bladder filled with a shock absorbing fluid. The headgear may comprise a shell made of an inner and outer material layered over an internal foam core to effect both strength and lightweight.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: Paul Schiebl, Marshall F. Holtsclaw, II
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Patent number: 6499148Abstract: A pair of swimming goggles comprises two lenses, two frames, a bridge, two padding members, and a head strap. Each lens is made of rigid material and includes an engaging portion. Each frame receives an associated lens therein and has an engaging portion engaged with the head strap. The bridge is integrally formed with the frames and located between the frames. Each padding member is made of a flexible material that is softer than that of the frames. Each padding member has a receiving portion for securely engaging with the engaging portion of the associated lens. Each padding member includes a padding portion in intimate contact with a wearer's eye socket.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Terry Chou
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Patent number: 6499149Abstract: A head and neck restraint device, worn by a driver when operating a high performance vehicle, which controls the driver's head from snapping forward and maintains the driver's head, neck and spine in general alignment in the event of a frontal crash. The device includes a pair of anchor straps that are worn along the back of the driver and have first end which connects to the driver's helmet by use of hooks and tethers, and second ends which extends between the driver's legs for connection to a seat belt assembly. A chest strap and a waist strap are attached to the anchor straps for keeping the anchor straps separated at a predetermined distance. When exiting the vehicle, the driver unlatches a standard vehicle seat belt assembly and the restraint device is simultaneously released from the vehicle. Since the restraint is neither rigid nor bulky, the driver can quickly exit the vehicle unrestricted by the device.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Safety Solution, Inc.Inventor: Trevor P. Ashline
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Patent number: 6499150Abstract: A toilet that exhausts odious air therefrom. The toilet includes a bowl, a main trap, a housing, a secondary trap, and a fan. The bowl has a rim and contains a chamber that communicates with the rim and receives human waste that produces the odious air. The main trap is contained in the bowl and communicates the chamber with a waste so as to provide a passageway from the chamber to the waste for the human waste. The housing is contained in the bowl and communicates the chamber with the waste so as to provide a passageway from the chamber to the waste for the odious air. The secondary trap is contained in the bowl and communicates the housing with the waste so as to provide a passageway from the housing to the waste for the odious air. The fan is contained in the housing and activates when a user sits on the bowl, and when activated, moves the odious air from the chamber, through the housing, through the secondary trap, and into the waste.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Nat Thompson
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Patent number: 6499151Abstract: A toilet bowl pump apparatus and method for reducing the water level in a toilet bowl.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Leslie A. Ollinger
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Patent number: 6499152Abstract: A high flow valve assembly and a low flow valve assembly are in parallel flow relation between an inlet and an outlet of a flush controller housing. The valve assemblies are opened by solenoid operated pilot valves under the control of a microprocessor based flush control system. A turbine directly measures flow through the low flow valve assembly and the control system computes flow through the high flow valve assembly to perform a flushing operation including an initial siphon trap flushing high flow portion and a subsequent trap reseal low flow portion. A push button is pressed to one of two override positions either to provide a signal to the control system for a normal flush operation or to open the high flow valve assembly independently of the control system for an emergency flush operation. A user detection system includes a pair of emitters and a pair of detectors defining an array of intersecting detection points in a skewed plane in which the control system can locate the position of a user.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Geberit Technik AGInventor: Dwight N. Johnson
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Patent number: 6499153Abstract: A hydromassage tub (1) allows the user to sit with a support for his/her head. The surfaces (5) for supporting the user (3) are shaped like waves in the cavities of which nozzles may -be disposed for the hydrojets, so as to maintain a slight distance from the user (3) and to allow these to be oriented to specific parts of the body. Medicaments or phytocosmetic substances may be injected along with the hydromassage jet by an assembly of containers, pumps and nozzles under the control of a switchboard. A display is located in front of the user (3) and is able to show the parameters and the development of the treatment and hydromassage processes. The hydromassage is performed under differentiated pressure in relation to the positions of nozzles (6) so as to obtain a higher pressure downwards and a progressively lower pressure upwards. The access to the tub is facilitated with the provision of a tight-seal door (9).Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: Iader Simoni, Antonio Baro
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Patent number: 6499154Abstract: The invention has an object to provide a bubble jetting apparatus which is simple in structure, can be easily installed in an existing bathtub without its apparatus body being installed in a bathtub, and excellent in use efficiency and various applications, and by which various features such as bubbles, jet streams and bubble jets can be freely selected. The bubble jetting apparatus has a apparatus body comprising a circulating pump 4, a suction tube 5 connected to the suction side of the circulating pump 4, a discharge tube 6 connected to the discharge side of the circulating pump 4, one or more bubble generating portions 7 disposed at appointed positions of the discharge tube 6, a compressor 8 connected to the bubble generating portions 7, and a drive portion 11 connected to the circulating pump 4 and compressor 8.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Vib Tec Limited CompanyInventor: Takafumi Niibayashi
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Patent number: 6499155Abstract: A disposable, toilet flush handle protection device, and mountable dispensing mechanism for minimizing the spread of germs in public facilities, from one user to another. The device comprises an elongated disposable tubular member of a diametric size to be removably placed on and off a conventional, perpendicularly mounted flush handle member of a toilet. A first end of the device is closed, while the second end includes an outwardly flared portion, where the flared portion is preferably formed by plural longitudinal slots to segment the second end. The dispensing mechanism comprises a semi-rigid tube, such as may be formed of a thin walled plastic, open at the top end for receiving a plurality of nestable devices, and open at the bottom end. The bottom end includes an inwardly directed flange to selectively contact and temporarily retain the flared portions of the devices so as to limit the dispensing of a single device at desired intervals.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Gary Barrios
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Patent number: 6499156Abstract: An examination table system for facilitating movement of a patient lying on a tabletop of the table system. The examination table system includes a table assembly for supporting the patient above a floor surface. The table assembly includes a generally planar tabletop and a plurality of leg members. A conveyor system is provided for moving the patient lying on the tabletop in a direction parallel to the tabletop. The conveyor system comprises a conveyor belt mounted about the table for movement. A pair of end rollers mounted to one of a pair of ends of the tabletop is provided for moving the conveyor belt about a pair of opposite ends of the tabletop. A drive assembly is provided for moving the conveyor belt about the tabletop. The drive assembly comprises a conveyor belt motor mounted to the table and a control for controlling operation of the conveyor belt motor.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Tracy L. Dirst
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Patent number: 6499157Abstract: A mattress covering in the form of a fitted mattress pad or fitted sheet has an inelastic, generally rectangular top portion and a skirt of inelastic material extending transversely, preferably perpendicularly from the outer periphery of the top portion in a closed loop entirely around the outer periphery of the top portion. A first elastic cord is secured to the skirt at its outer periphery remote from the top portion. A second, separate elastic cord is secured to the skirt at some place between and spaced apart from the top panel portion and the first elastic cord, preferably closer to the top portion outer periphery than to the first elastic cord. The skirt can be made of two layers of a textile material, each layer being a single panel, or it can be made of multiple panels or lengths of other materials for each layer.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 1999Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Perfect Fit Industries, Inc.Inventors: Ricky A. McCain, Jack V. Dockery, Jr., John W. Whitley
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Patent number: 6499158Abstract: A medical accessory clamping system includes a table and an accessory clamp. The table has an upper surface and a lower surface, a first ridge positioned on the upper surface and a second ridge positioned on the lower surface of the table. The accessory clamp has a first clamping member and a second clamping member coupled to but separate from the first clamping member wherein the clamping members define a cavity for receiving a portion of the table. The first and second clamping members have recesses for receiving said first and second ridges of the table, respectively. A uniquely styled clamp and a table are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Steris, Inc.Inventor: Barry A. Easterling
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Patent number: 6499159Abstract: In a coupling arrangement for a drive arrangement and an adjustable positioning plate of a medical system, the positioning plate is adjustable at least in the direction of its longitudinal axis via the drive arrangement as well as by hand. A friction connection between the drive arrangement and the positioning plate can be produced and cancelled via the coupling arrangement such that the positioning plate can be adjusted at least in the direction of its longitudinal axis via the drive arrangement given a friction connection, and by hand given a neutralized friction connection. The coupling arrangement acts directly between the drive arrangement and the positioning plate.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: Guenter Schmitt, Rolf Reimann, Karlheinz Barde
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Patent number: 6499160Abstract: A patient support apparatus comprises a base, and a patient support assembly coupled to the base for pivotable movement about a pivot axis generally transverse to a longitudinal axis of the patient support assembly. A pivot mechanism is coupled to the patient support assembly to rotate the patient support assembly about the pivot axis. A controller is coupled to the pivot mechanism to control rotation of the patient support assembly about the pivot axis at a selected rate of rotation and to a selected angle of rotation to provide rotational therapy to the patient.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventors: Barry D. Hand, Dana H. Delk, Jack J. Brooks, Steven J. Doehler
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Patent number: 6499161Abstract: An adjustable bed having an upper frame mounted to translate with respect to a lower frame. A center support is connected to the upper frame and has a head support pivotally connected to one end thereof. A thigh support is pivotally connected to the other end of the center support and a foot support is connected to the other end of the thigh support. The bed includes an improved mounting for a massage motor in which a resonator board is mounted on resilient spacers on an upper surface of a support platform.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: L&P Property Management CompanyInventor: Robert G. Godette
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Patent number: 6499162Abstract: The present invention relates to a power-driven bed comprising a base, a sliding frame, a power-driven motor, a first, a second, a third, and a fourth bedplate frames, and a first, a second, and a third link bars. The lateral side of the top of such base has a sliding frame, and a power driven motor is mounted on the base; the piston rod of the power-driven motor can be coupled to the sliding frame. The first, the second, the third, and the fourth bedplate frames are aligned horizontally in order, such that these four bedplate frames are coupled at their corresponsive mutual intersections, and the first, the third, and the fourth bedplate frames and both lateral sides of the vase are separately coupled to the first, the second, and the third link bars. A lateral side of the top of the sliding frame is coupled to a lateral side of the second bedplate frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Yung-Hsiang Lu
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Patent number: 6499163Abstract: An apparatus convertible to a chair or table comprises a support structure; first and second pairs of wheels rotatably supporting the support structure; and a platform supported by the support structure. The platform includes a seat support and a back support. The platform is positionable between a chair configuration and a table configuration. The first pair of wheels have inboard and outboard positions. The first pair of wheels are in the inboard position when the platform is in the table configuration. The first pair of wheels are in the outboard position when the platform is in the chair configuration.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Harold Stensby
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Patent number: 6499164Abstract: A body pillow having an upper end which is essentially in the shape of a horseshoe and a lower end which is essentially in the shape of a J, a straight portion connecting the horseshoe-shaped top with the J-shaped bottom, the cross-sectional diameter of the body pillow being between 7 and 12 inches.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Jamie S. Leach
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Patent number: 6499165Abstract: A safety device (2) for use in safely restraining an infant, particularly on a flat substrate, is described, the safety device (2) comprising a support portion (4) for supporting the body of the infant and a harness portion (20) for restraining the body of the infant in the supported position in which the harness (20) includes a number of flaps (16, 22, 24, 28) which co-operate with each other to envelop a part of the body of the infant, thereby restraining the infant. The device may be in the form of a U-pillow or in the form of a pillowcase for a U-pillow. In addition, the device is provided with a pocket (14) for storing the harness when not in use and for acting as a neck, head or shoulder rest by providing an extra thickness of padding.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Angelo Morgillo
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Patent number: 6499166Abstract: An apparatus for elevating the head and torso of a patient confined to a fluidized patient support system. A head cushion assembly, a knee gatch assembly and a control assembly are integrated with any known fluidized patient support system and preferably integrated, at least in part, with the cover sheet of the chosen patient support system. In operation, the invention may be utilized to raise and/or lower a patient's head and torso, in 15° steps, to any inclination from supine to approximately 45°. In implementations utilizing the knee gatch assembly, the patient is effectively prevented from sliding during inclination even to the highest of angles. The controls are conveniently provided on a handheld unit for easy access and operation by caregivers and patient alike.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1999Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: KCI LicensingInventor: Mark Jones
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Patent number: 6499167Abstract: A mattress is provided for use with a bed deck having a recess. The mattress includes a mattress section configured to define a patient rest surface and a mattress section support configured to support the mattress section.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventors: Craig D. Ellis, Kenneth L. Kramer, Jason C. Brooke, Eric R. Meyer, Gregory W. Branson, David J. Ulrich
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Patent number: 6499168Abstract: A drill adapter includes an elongate support holder and a generally elongate member fixed to one axial end of the support holder configured to be secured in a chuck of a drill to rotate the support holder. A reversible bit carrying member supports the drill bit at one end and a driver bit at the other end, and is receivable within the support holder. A magnet, formed of a permanently magnetized material having a high energy product, preferably equal to at least 7.0×106 gauss-oersteds, which may be in the form of a pill magnet embedded within the support holder or may be in the form of a sleeve of magnetizable material, surrounds at least an axial end portion of the support holder proximate to the end of the support holder that supports the driver bit in its operative position.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Wayne Anderson
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Patent number: 6499169Abstract: A recycling control system for a dock leveler including a pivotally mounted deck. There is a powered lifting mechanism for raising the deck and a lip pivotally mounted to the deck for movement between pendant and extended positions. The control assembly includes a lip-position member couplable to the lip for movement therewith such that the position of the lip-position member is indicative of lip position. There is a switch couplable to the lifter and operable to a first condition wherein power is provided to the lifter and operable to a second condition wherein power is not provided to the lifter. There is an actuator disposed on the lip-position member for movement relative thereto between at least a first position where the actuator operates the switch to the first condition, and a second position where the switch can be operated to the second condition. The actuator is disposed to move between the first and second positions as the lip moves toward the pendant position.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: Norbert Hahn, Mike Jehn, Robert Stoewe, Michael A. Swessel
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Patent number: 6499170Abstract: Disclosed is a seismic load transmitting system based on impact mechanism for a multi-span continuous bridge. There are impact assemblies connected to a superstructure of the bridge for colliding with movable support piers according to a longitudinal displacement of the superstructure of the bridge caused by a seismic load. The seismic load is transmitted from the superstructure of the bridge to the movable support piers. These are impact receiving assemblies installed in the movable support piers for receiving an impact force generated when the movable support piers become collided with the impact assemblies and transmitting the seismic load transferred from the superstructure of the bridge through the impact assemblies to the movable support piers. The seismic load generated in the superstructure of the bridge is transmitted not only to the fixed support piers but also to the moving support piers due to the collision between the impact assemblies and the impact receiving assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: Jae Kwan Kim, Ick Hyun Kim
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Patent number: 6499171Abstract: Footwear cleaning apparatus includes a housing with an opening for receiving footwear to be cleaned. A first cylindrical brush is rotatably supported about a horizontal axis for cleaning the bottom of the footwear yielding to its insertion movement into the housing but preventing rotation in the opposite direction. A pair of second cylindrical brushes are rotatably supported about generally upright axes oppositely positioned adjacent the path of movement of the footwear for cleaning the sides of the footwear also in a manner yielding to its insertion movement but preventing rotation in the opposite direction. A third cylindrical brush also positioned in the path of movement of the footwear for cleaning its upper surfaces is rotatably supported about a substantially horizontally disposed axis on an axle extending between upright mounting braces for rotation, yielding to insertion movement of the footwear but preventing rotation in the opposite direction.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: John J. Nappi, Sr.
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Patent number: 6499172Abstract: An adjustable handle assembly is provided for use with a hand-held power tool, such as a polisher, to enhance control while operating on delicate surfaces of varying contours. The handle assembly includes a handle mounted to the housing of the tool in a manner that facilitates quick adjustment of the handle between various predetermined positions relative to the housing without the use of tools, turning of nuts and bolts and prolonged work stoppage. The handle assembly also includes lock members on one of the handle and the housing and lock receiving grooves on the other of the handle and housing which can cooperate with the lock members to fix the handle in one of the predetermined positions relative to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1999Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: WMH Tool Group, Inc.Inventor: Robert E. McCracken
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Patent number: 6499173Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning culverts and the like, and the apparatus has a longitudinal beam having a first end and a second end, adjustable support legs secured to said first and second ends of the beam, a carriage movably mounted on the beam between the support legs, apparatus for moving the carriage along the beam, a motor having a rotatable shaft secured to the carriage beneath the beam, and the rotatable shaft is configured to receive a removable coupling, at least one drive link having a first end and a second end and the first and second ends are configured to receive removable couplings and the drive link is joined to the rotatable shaft by a removable coupling and a culvert cleaning tool having a shaft configured to receive a removable coupling and the shaft is secured to the drive link by a removable coupling. The apparatus is provided with couplings for attaching and detaching the apparatus to and from a carrier vehicle. The carrier vehicle serves to transport and position the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Leslie Van Ornum
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Patent number: 6499174Abstract: A cleaning brush suitable for use in connection with automotive cleaning tasks, incorporates back-to-back bristle heads at one end of an elongated handle. One of the bristle heads features a concave, or dished, face; the other bristle head has a planar face. The concave brush head is intended for use on tires, and as such, is fabricated from fewer, coarser bristles than is the planar brush head, which is intended for use on wheels and body parts. For a preferred embodiment of the invention, the handle is about 61 cm (24 inches) in length, and includes an elongated portion of square cross section and a flattened, largely disk-shaped portion in which bristles of both heads are imbedded. Optionally, the handle at the end opposite the disk-shaped portion includes an aperture which may be used to hand the brush on a hook.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: James L. Henrie
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Patent number: 6499175Abstract: The present invention is a combination scrub brush, for use with or without a shaft, that presents a finished appearance regardless of whether or not the shaft is in use. The brush includes a grip, a base plate, and a bristle block holding several bristles formed into a substantially flat bristle surface and a curved bristle surface. The base plate is attached lengthwise to the grip, and the grip has a shaft line that is parallel to and offset from the base plate. An internal screw thread in the grip allows the user to attach a shaft to the grip so that otherwise inaccessible surfaces can be cleaned. When the shaft is not in use, a plug inserted into the grip provides a finished appearance to the brush. The plug includes a slot and loop combination used to secure the plug to the grip when the plug is removed and the shaft is installed. The slot and loop combination can also be used to store the entire brush when the shaft is removed and the plug is installed.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: Scott Osiecki, Steve Sieckowski
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Patent number: 6499176Abstract: A broom device for removably securing a handle to a broom an improved manner. The broom device includes a bar having a top side, a bottom side and peripheral edge. The bar is elongate and has a first end and a second end. A hole extends through the top and bottom sides of the bar and is positioned generally between the first and second ends. A panel has an upper surface, a lower surface and a peripheral edge extending between the upper and lower surfaces. The panel has at least one aperture therein extending through the upper and lower surfaces. Each of a plurality of bristles is attached to and extends away from the lower surface of the panel. The bristles are resiliently flexible. A pole is elongate and has a first end and a second end. A rod is attached to and extends away from the first end of the pole. The top side of the bar is abutted against the bottom surface of the panel such that the aperture is aligned with the hole.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Vern A. Hammond
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Patent number: 6499177Abstract: A novel end cap assembly for attachment to a commercially available paint roller assembly allows the application of a coating material, such as paint, uniformly to two intersecting surfaces such as in a corner. The inventive end cap comprises a unitary disc like base having a prong projecting laterally therefrom, the base and prong being formed unitarily from a suitable polymer. A textured material such as fabric, open celled foam, or sheepskin bearing natural wool is adhered to the base. A single prong engages a space existing between the inner surface of the roller cover and the outer surface of the roller frame barrel so that the possibility of damage to the possibly damp paper tube of the roller cover is avoided when the end cap is installed. The prong is straight where joined to the cap at its proximal end, and is curved at its distal or free end. The prong is formed from a material imparting spring qualities.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Walter D. Napolitan
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Patent number: 6499178Abstract: An assembly structure, consisting of a handle and a blade, having mainly a locking structure directly formed at the front of a tongue firmly integrated on the blade to provide relative insertion and movement between the said handle and the said blade with instantly precise, simple and convenient positioning as a groove inside the handle base and the tongue are in identical T-shape.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventor: Chin-Chen Huang
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Patent number: 6499179Abstract: The invention is wiper arm for a device for the cleaning of a windshield on a vehicle with a retaining element attached to a drive shaft to which a wiper arm part is articulated such that it can be tilted onto and away from the windshield and which is pressed down in the direction of the windshield with a force at least during the operation of the windshield washing device, and with the free end of which a wiper can be connected and with a separate trim that is attached to the wiper arm and extends in a longitudinal direction over the greater part of the length of the entire wiper arm part, and over all of the length of the wiper that is connected to the wiper arm.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2000Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: Andreas Fink, Michael Grossmann
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Patent number: 6499180Abstract: A device for heating a wiper blade for preventing ice build-up on windshield wiper blades. The device for heating a wiper blade includes an elongated block having a first end and a second end. The block has a top side, a bottom side, a first lateral side and second lateral side. The bottom side has a channel therein extending toward the top side and extending through the first and second ends. A plurality of heating elements is positioned in the block. An actuator turns the heating elements on or off and is operationally coupled to the heating elements. The actuator is operationally coupled to a power supply. A wiper blade is positionable in the channel. The top side of the block is attached to a wiper blade arm.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2001Date of Patent: December 31, 2002Inventors: George Johnson, Arlene Johnson