Patents Issued in February 20, 2003
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Publication number: 20030034155Abstract: A method of making an evaporator and the resultant evaporator. The resultant evaporator comprises a continuous serpentine tube having an inlet and an outlet. The serpentine tube includes at least one column of parallel tube runs. Each tube run is defined by at least one reverse bend. The column of parallel tube runs has an overall length defined by the distance between the outermost tube runs. The evaporator further comprises a plurality of inner fins attached to the individual tubes. Each inner fin extends between two tube runs defined by opposite ends of a reverse bend. The inner fins have a length less than the overall length the column of tube runs.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: TI Group Automotive Systems Corp.Inventors: Scot Reagen, Jeff Sensmeier
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Publication number: 20030034156Abstract: A multi-function apparatus designated as a “Liner Stub Assembly”, run in and set in an existing cased well at the end of a work pipe string is used to add a liner-equipped branch well to an existing cased well in a way which provides full access to both wells. Pre-fabricated mobile straight tubular connectors (Liner Stubs) are installed and sealed by on-board explosive means which accurately cut a window of pre-determined shape and dimensions in the existing well casing and weld to it the Liner Stub's stop collar to make downhole a leak-proof tubular junction of the two wells, by means of such short connectors.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2000Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Michael Gondouin
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Publication number: 20030034157Abstract: A mounting system for a fill-up and circulating tool on the rig hoisting system is disclosed. In the preferred embodiment, the tool is supported on one of the bails and it driven to rotate around the longitudinal axis of one of the bails. A combined vertical and rotational movement is imparted by the mounting system to allow the fill-up and circulating tool to be raised and swung out from between the bails to allow normal drilling or tripping. In the other position it can be swung over the tubular and lowered for sealing contact to allow fluids to pass in both directions to or from a pumping and storage system on the rig.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Albert August Mullins
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Publication number: 20030034158Abstract: A wellbore pump comprises a plunger having a passage which may be open or closed by a valve operated by a piston which is biased in the open position by a spring of selected strength such that the wellbore pressure may overcome the spring to close the valve when the accumulated hydrostatic pressure reaches a certain value. When the valve closes the reservoir pressure forces the plunger to the surface and causes the accumulated liquids to be pumped out of the wellbore.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 12, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Dan Lee
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Publication number: 20030034159Abstract: A wellbore packer and slip combination for production tubing and the like comprises a plurality of slip elements that are caged together around the periphery of a cylindrical mandrel. An axially displaced actuator simultaneously engages all of the elements to ramp one end of all elements against a casing wall. After the one end of the slip and packer unit is set, further displacement of the actuator expands the other end of the elements against the casing wall. The packer and slip assembly may be retracted and recovered by a simultaneous lift and rotation of the tool string.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 1, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Conrad G. Weinig, John L. Baugh
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Publication number: 20030034160Abstract: Improved methods and apparatus for completing a subterranean zone penetrated by a wellbore are provided. The improved methods basically comprise the steps of placing a sand control screen (e.g., screens, screened pipes, perforated liners, prepacked screens, etc.) and an outer shroud assembly mounted over the sand screen in the wellbore adjacent the zone to be completed, the shroud having perforated and blank (non-perforated) segments with the blank segments corresponding to selected intervals of the wellbore, for example problem zones such as shale streaks or isolated zones where flows are restricted by mechanical seals or packers, and injecting particulate material into the wellbore, whereby gravel packing takes place in the remaining length of the wellbore/shroud annulus without voids. The inner annulus between the shroud and screen provides an alternate flow path for the slurry to bypass the blocked intervals and continue with its placement.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Philip D. Nguyen, Michael W. Sanders, Ron Gibson, David Lord, David McMechan
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Publication number: 20030034161Abstract: Apparatus and system control and method for the removal of fluids and gas from a well comprising winch means for removing the oil, a temporary storage tank, a bailer tube, a bailer tube housing assembly axially aligned with the well casing, means for exhausting and recovering a natural gas, the bailer tube being capable of being lowered into and elevated from the well casing such that captured oil can be diverted and discharged into the temporary storage tank, sensors for monitoring operational parameters including the depth of oil and depth of a top level of water in the well casing, and a programmable logic controller means for providing system control so that only oil is removed from the well casing by using a logging sequence and a balanced oil production operational sequence.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 4, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Global Energy Research, LLCInventor: Timothy F. Rice
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Publication number: 20030034162Abstract: A continuous feed injection unit used for example for injection and removal of continuous well string from wells operates in a dual speed configuration. The unit comprises a first hydraulic motor, a second hydraulic motor, cooperating continuous well string gripping chains connected to be driven by the first and second hydraulic motors, a hydraulic power supply connected to provide pressurized fluid to the first and second hydraulic motors and a control system for the hydraulic power supply. The control system for the hydraulic power supply has a motor speed control valve with at least a first and second operating configuration, the first operating configuration providing power fluid to the first and second hydraulic motors in parallel and the second operating configuration providing power fluid to the first and second hydraulic motors in series. The hydraulic power supply may be a conventional power tong hydraulic supply.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Emanuel Kulhanek
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Publication number: 20030034163Abstract: Packers are expandable sealing devices used to seal off zones in a well. Packers are expanded to seal the bore of the well by means of expansion fluid supplied via individual pipelines. However, packers near the top of the well have to accommodate all of the pipelines for packers below. The invention provides a packer system comprising a plurality of packers (22-28) and fluid delivery means arranged to supply fluid to the packers, to expand them in use. The fluid delivery means includes a common fluid pipeline (36) for the packers. Thus, only one expansion fluid pipeline has to pass through the upper packers (22, 23), irrespective of the overall number of packers in the system.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: James Brian Wilson
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Publication number: 20030034164Abstract: An optical control is disclosed which is particularly suitable for application as a switching device, regulating device or sensor device for a power tool. At least two optical waveguides are provided one of which being configured as a transmitting waveguide is coupled to a light source, a second one of which being configured as a receiving waveguide cooperating therewith is coupled to an evaluation circuitry. Both waveguides cooperate with a control element that is movable at least between two positions in which light signals of different magnitude are transmitted from the transmitting waveguide into the receiving waveguide.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Boris Rudolf, Sigmund Braun, Christof Kress
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Publication number: 20030034165Abstract: A shielding system for an electrical cable terminating at an electrical connector is disclosed. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the system includes a backshell assembly having an upper half and a lower half adapted to be mated with one another. A can assembly is configured within the backshell, the can assembly having upper and lower halves corresponding to the backshell assembly. The can assembly further includes an extended portion extending beyond a front end of the backshell assembly, wherein the can assembly provides a ground connection from a shield within the cable to the connector.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: George W. Brehm, Robert L. Nicoletti
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Publication number: 20030034166Abstract: An in-floor, flush poke-through wiring fitting may be installed in the floor of a structure to enable the activation of power, communication, and/or data services at the fitting location. The poke-through fitting internally supports four power receptacles and a plurality of communication/data jacks. The power receptacles may be connected in a single electrical circuit, or may be connected in dual electrical circuits. The poke-through fitting will support data connectors in either a flush mount position or a recessed mounting position. An excess cover includes separate sliding covers for each of the power receptacles and communication/data jacks.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Norman Castellani, John Kohaut, Richard Lee Arthur, Shailesh Shashikant Bambardekar
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Publication number: 20030034167Abstract: An apparatus for positioning power or telecommunications outlets in furniture and wall systems. The apparatus cooperates with a wall, partition or furniture system to repositionably support a cable suitable for transmitting telecommunications data and/or electrical power. The apparatus includes an outlet box and a conduit or channel for receiving the cable. Means for removably attaching the apparatus to the system are provided so that the apparatus can be removably attached to the system in a plurality of positions. The system may include a base and a support frame forming a plurality of mounting positions. A removable cover may fit over at least a portion of an open side of the conduit or channel for restricting access to the interior of the channel. A method for repositionably supporting a cable in a modular construction system forming a plurality of mounting locations is also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 8, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Martin L. DeLand
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Publication number: 20030034168Abstract: A bump layout on the active region of a driver IC for increasing overall bump count. The layout fits IC packages that have a narrow and long body profile. Bumps are positioned close to the long side and central regions of the active region so that low marking pressure on the shorter sides of the package during chip-glass bondage is avoided. Dummy bumps may also be positioned close to the shorter sides of the package so that pressure distribution is optimized during chip-glass bondage.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Wen-Chih Yang, Feng-Cheng Su, Chin-Chen Yang
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Publication number: 20030034169Abstract: A conductor strip includes a first end portion soldered to a printed circuit board, and a second end portion welded to a rechargeable battery. The conductor strip also includes a connecting portion disposed between the first and the second end portions. The connecting portion has a smaller width than that of the first end portion so that the peeling force acting on the first end portion is alleviated.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: ROHM CO., LTD.Inventor: Naoya Tanaka
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Publication number: 20030034170Abstract: This invention provides a plated metal wire excellent in corrosion resistance and resistance to the cracking and peeling of a plated layer and/or a plated alloy layer during working, subjected to hot dip zinc alloy plating and used for outdoor and exposed structures such as wire mesh for construction, net cages for revetments, fishing nets, outdoor fences, etc., a method for producing the plated metal wire, and an apparatus for carrying out the method.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 17, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Satoshi Sugimaru, Seiki Nishida, Satoru Tanaka, Akira Takahashi, Atsuhiko Yoshie
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Publication number: 20030034171Abstract: An improved cable tie arrangement includes a flexible strap and a locking head. The flexible strap has a series of spaced apertures formed therein. A first group of apertures extending from one end and extending over at least half of the strap, the first group serving to allow for adjustably securing the strap over a cable or other object to be bundled. A second group of apertures extends from an opposing end of said strap, two of the apertures may be used in combination with the locking head to secure a portion of the strap about one loop of a cable to be bundled. The locking head has a central post terminating at opposing ends with radially extending, axially aligned discs sized for locking engagement with the apertures. A third axially aligned disc positioned intermediately along the axis of the post and also radially extending therefrom separates the opposing end discs so that apertures on either end of the strap may be selectively and discretely engaged and disengaged from said discs.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: John Michael Joseph
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Publication number: 20030034172Abstract: In a device for connecting several functional electric elements arranged on a transparent window, such as antennas for example, by a single flexible cord element and of its connection conductors to sets which follow, the contact faces (10) of the functional elements (3, 4) that are to be connected by means of this contact element (8) are distributed along the edge of the window (1), the contact element has a shape tailored to the edge of the window (1) and also acts as a support for circuit elements (9) arranged in close proximity to the contact faces (10) and is electrically connected thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 22, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: SAINT GOBAIN GLASS FRANCEInventors: Ulrich Von Alpen, Martin Englmeier, Detlev Durkop
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Publication number: 20030034173Abstract: An object of the present invention is to manufacture a bump-attached wiring circuit board with which stable bump connections are possible, and there is no need for bothersome operations such as plating pretreatments. A bump formation etching mask 7 is formed on the bump formation side 3a of a metal foil 3 having a thickness (t1+t2) equal to the sum of the thickness t1 of a wiring circuit 1 and the height t2 of the bumps 2 to be formed on a wiring circuit 1, the bumps 2 are formed by half-etching the metal foil 3 from the bump formation etching mask 7 side down to a depth corresponding to a predetermined bump height t2, and a metal thin film layer 10 composed of a different metal from the metal foil 3 is formed on the bump formation side of the metal foil 3, thereby providing a bump-attached wiring circuit board with which stable bump connections are possible, and there is no need for bothersome operations such as plating pretreatments.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 11, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Sony Chemicals Corp.Inventors: Yutaka Kaneda, Keiichi Naito, Soichiro Kishimoto, Toshihiro Shinohara
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Publication number: 20030034174Abstract: A method 10, 110 for making multi-layer circuit boards having metallized apertures 38, 40, 130, 132 which may be selectively and electrically grounded and having at least one formed air-bridge 92, 178.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Zhong-You Shi, Delin Li, Richard McMillan
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Publication number: 20030034175Abstract: An electronic device has a dielectric substrate with first and second surface and a via through the substrate connecting the first and second surfaces. A first and second sacrificial copper structure surrounds the via on the first and second surfaces, respectively, wherein each of the sacrificial structures covers an area of less than three times the horizontal cross sectional area of the via. Contemplated sacrificial structures are preferably formed in a photolithographic process.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Honeywell Advanced Circuits, Inc.Inventors: Henry Johnson, James P. Augustine
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Publication number: 20030034176Abstract: The invention is directed to a roller cone drill for drilling earth formations and a method of using the same. The drill bit includes a bit body and a plurality of roller cones attached to the bit body and able to rotate with respect to the bit body. The drill bit further includes a plurality of cutting elements disposed on each of the roller cones, an offset of at least about 0.375 inches; and a journal angle less than about thirty degrees. In one embodiment, the drill bit includes three roller cones. In another embodiment, the cutting elements of the bit are arranged on each cone so that cutting elements on adjacent cones intermesh between the cones.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Amardeep Singh
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Publication number: 20030034177Abstract: The method of providing in excess of 60 kilowatts of electrical power to the electrical motor of a subterranean electric drilling machine through a substantially neutrally buoyant composite umbilical containing electrical conductors to reduce the frictional drag on the neutrally buoyant umbilical. Drilling and casing subterranean monobore wells are contemplated to distances of 20 miles from a wellsite. For drilling applications, the umbilical possesses a drilling fluid conduit. The umbilical also possesses high speed data communications such as a fiber optic cable or a coaxial cable that is used in the feedback control of the downhole electric drilling motor. Such umbilicals are also useful to provide power to remotely operated vehicles for subsea well servicing applications.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: James E. Chitwood, William Banning Vail, William G. Crossland, Damir S. Skerl, Robert L. Dekle
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Publication number: 20030034178Abstract: A drilling shaft deflection assembly for a drilling direction control device of the type comprising a rotatable drilling shaft and a housing for supporting a length of the drilling shaft for rotation therein. The deflection assembly is contained within the housing and is axially located between a first support location and a second support location for bending the drilling shaft between the first support location and the second support location. The deflection assembly includes a deflection mechanism for imparting lateral movement to the drilling shaft to bend the drilling shaft, a deflection actuator for actuating the deflection mechanism in response to longitudinal movement of the deflection actuator, and a deflection linkage mechanism between the deflection mechanism and the deflection actuator for converting longitudinal movement of the deflection actuator to lateral movement of the drilling shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 27, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Edward James Cargill, Evan L. Davies, Gary L. Donison, Gerald Edward Kent, Terrance Dean Maxwell, Boguslaw Wiecek
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Publication number: 20030034179Abstract: A drill bit comprising a bit body, at least one roller cone rotatably mounted on the bit body. The cone has a plurality of milled teeth at selected locations on the cone. At least one of the milled teeth comprises a substrate having a convex crest and a layer of hardfacing applied to said convex crest. The convex crest is adapted to produce at least one of a convex axial stress distribution, a substantially even axial stress distribution, and a substantially smooth axial stress distribution.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Amardeep Singh
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Publication number: 20030034180Abstract: A drill bit is disclosed which includes a bit body having a plurality of blades thereon. The blades have a plurality of cutting elements affixed thereon at selected positions. The cutting elements are disposed into at least two groups. A first one of the groups has at least 60 percent of the cutting elements therein disposed at a first mean backrake angle. A second group has at least 60 percent of the cutting elements therein disposed at a second mean backrake angle. The second backrake angle is at least about fifteen degrees more than the first backrake angle. A bottom hole coverage of the cutting elements in the second group is at least about eighty percent.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 15, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Graham Mensa-Wilmot
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Publication number: 20030034181Abstract: A rotary drag bit carrying PDC cutters and elongated bearing elements associated with at least some of the PDC cutters on the bit face. Lateral positioning and angular positioning of the elongated bearing elements are adjusted so that all portions of a elongated bearing element travel substantially completely within a tubular clearance volume defined by the path through the formation being drilled by a PDC cutter with which that elongated bearing element is associated, the associated PDC cutter being positioned at about the same radius from the bit centerline as the elongated bearing element. A method of drilling and a method of drill bit design are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Mohammad Swadi
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Publication number: 20030034182Abstract: The present invention provides a superhard polycrystalline diamond or diamond-like element with greatly improved resistance to thermal degradation without loss of impact strength. Collectively called PCD elements, these elements are formed with a binder-catalyzing material in a high-temperature, high-pressure process. The PCD element has a plurality of partially bonded diamond or diamond-like crystals forming at least one continuous diamond matrix, and the interstices among the diamond crystals forming at least one continuous interstitial matrix containing a catalyzing material. The element has a working surface and a body, where a portion of the interstitial matrix in the body adjacent to the working surface is substantially free of the catalyzing material, and the remaining interstitial matrix contains the catalyzing material.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Nigel Dennis Griffin, Peter Raymond Hughes
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Publication number: 20030034183Abstract: Method in a stacker crane for weighing a load, which comprises a lifting carriage, motor means which are arranged to lift and lower the lifting carriage, a lifting member that transmits tensile stress and on the support of which the lifting carriage is suspended for movement and on which the motor means exert a tensile effect for the movement of the lifting carriage, and first sensor means which are arranged to determine the position of the lifting carriage and generate a first signal, control means, second sensor means which are arranged to generate a second signal that is proportional to the amount of the lifting member that is fed via the motor means.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Jyrki Kortesmaki
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Publication number: 20030034184Abstract: A scale is disclosed for weighing moving loads. The scale includes a weighing platform having entrance and exit ends. The platform is connected to a tipping member mounted to pivot about a fulcrum. A weighing device is operatively connected to the fulcrum. Downward movement of the platform entrance end causes the tipping member to pivot in a first direction and downward movement of the platform exit end causes the tipping member to pivot in a second direction. First and second stops limit movement of the tipping member in the first and second directions, respectively. As a load enters the platform, the tipping member pivots against the first stop such that the weight is distributed between the fulcrum and the stop. As the load approaches the center of the platform, the tipping member pivots off of the first stop such that the weight is measurable by the weighing device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Jerry L. Ostermann
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Publication number: 20030034185Abstract: A method and system for preventing unintended touch pad input resulting from accidental touching of a touch pad device in an electronic device. A user can execute one or more touch pad functions by touching the touch pad device. The electronic device includes a key lock function to put the electronic device in a locked state such that only a limited number of selected input functions are available when the electronic device is in the locked state. When touch pad device is touched, a software program is used to determine whether the electronic device is the locked state and whether the touch function is one of the selected input functions in order to carry out or to block the touch pad function.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Nokia Mobile Phones Ltd.Inventor: Terho Kaikuranta
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Publication number: 20030034186Abstract: A power control unit for electric vehicle which can easily detach the high voltage cables even if the motor room is deformed, for example, by head-on collision and/or rear-end collision of the vehicle, which is difficult to be deformed, which can makes small, and which can avoid an influence of heat generated by the reactor are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hideki Morita, Tomoya Yamagishi
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Electric vehicle drive control apparatus, electric vehicle drive control method, and program thereof
Publication number: 20030034187Abstract: An electric vehicle drive control apparatus has an electric machine; a battery; an inverter that is driven in accordance with a drive signal, and that receives DC current from the battery and produces phase currents, and that supplies the phase currents to the electric machine; a battery voltage detection device that detects the battery voltage; and an electric machine torque restriction processing device that determines whether the battery voltage is higher than a threshold value, and restricts the electric machine torque if the battery voltage is higher than the threshold value. If the battery voltage becomes higher than the threshold value, the electric machine torque is restricted. Therefore, increases in the load on the inverter can be prevented.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 30, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: AISIN AW CO., LTD.Inventors: Hideki Hisada, Kazuo Aoki, Shitomi Yanagawa -
Publication number: 20030034188Abstract: A hybrid system or a control method for a vehicle having a first set of road wheels and a second set of road wheels is disclosed. The system comprises an engine controller for receiving a torque request for an engine driving torque and combining an idle speed torque and the engine driving torque to generate an engine torque command signal. An engine, drivingly coupled with the first set of road wheels, applies a first driving torque to the first set of road wheels in response to the engine torque command signal. A hybrid controller is in communication with the engine controller. The hybrid controller generates the torque request and a motor torque command signal taking into account a creep torque portion of the first driving torque and a desired driving torque during starting the vehicle from standstill. A motor is drivingly coupled with the second set of road wheels. The motor applies a second driving torque to the second set of road wheels in response to the motor torque command signal.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 12, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventor: Kenichi Gotou
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Publication number: 20030034189Abstract: A tracked vehicle capable of traversing a variety of surfaces without damaging the surface traversed. The vehicle is capable of light or heavy-duty applications. An embodiment of the vehicle includes a track with a substantially smooth outer surface, and an inner surface including a portion having lugs, a driver sprocket assembly engaging the lugs, and a plurality of wheels spaced to minimize flexing of the track between each wheel in contact with the track while the track contacts the traversed surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Gary Lemke, Brad Lemke, Cary Safe, Edgar Hetteen
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Publication number: 20030034190Abstract: There is a self-propelled mobile sled which can be maneuvered over various terrains such as earth, slopes, hills, rocks, snow, and ice. The sled, in various modifications, can be used as a toy; as a rescue vehicle; and an observation vehicle. The size of the sled can vary to adjust to the desired task.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 16, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Leland Henderson
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Publication number: 20030034191Abstract: A suspension system for suspending an endless track beneath a tracked vehicle chassis. The suspension system can be a fully coupled suspension, a partially coupled suspension or a non-coupled suspension. The suspension system includes at least one elongated suspension rail having a front portion, a rear portion and a bottom track-engaging portion. At least one suspension arm has an upper end adapted for pivotal connection to the vehicle chassis and a lower end pivotally connected to the suspension rail. The lower end of the suspension arm can optionally have a displacement with a non-linear component. A biasing mechanism provides a biasing force to bias the suspension rail away from the vehicle chassis. The track tensioning system coupled to the suspension arm applies a tensioning force to the endless track in response to displacement of the suspension arm. The tensioning force generates a supplemental force transmitted by the endless track that augments the biasing force of the biasing mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Gerard J. Karpik
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Publication number: 20030034192Abstract: The apparatus for controlling vehicle driving force is provided with a target driving force deciding part for deciding a target driving force by using an accelerator opening and vehicle speed, and driving force distribution control part for distributing the target driving force to an engine torque control part and a drive system control part. Further, this apparatus has a vehicle running state determining part for detecting the running state of the vehicle. Furthermore, the final target driving force is increased or decreased to correct based on the result of the vehicle running state determining part in the target driving force deciding part or the driving force distribution control part.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Hitachi, LtdInventors: Yoshiya Takano, Yoshiyuki Yoshida, Hidefumi Iwaki
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Publication number: 20030034193Abstract: An auxiliary wheel conversion assembly for a motorcycle comprises a quick connect and disconnect structure, including a generally U-shaped frame having side frame members on opposite sides of a receiving pocket to receive the rear drive wheel of the motorcycle when connected thereto, a cross-bar across the rear between the two side frame members, an auxiliary wheel mounted along and to the outside of each side frame member, such wheels being of the same size as the rear drive wheel and substantially in axial alignment therewith when the conversion assembly is connected to the motorcycle. The forward end portions of each side frame member converge inwardly as they extend forwardly. Their forward ends include connecting members for quick releasable connection to corresponding cooperative connecting members secured to the forward and lower portion of the motorcycle frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 18, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Motorcycle Tour Conversion, Inc.Inventor: Raymond Mullins
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Publication number: 20030034194Abstract: A restraint system having a restraint device for protecting at least one passenger and a method for controlling a restraint system are proposed, which act so as to transform using a wavelet transformation, a signal measured by an acceleration sensor into a frequency range and in order to determine from the transformed signal the optimal triggering time point for the restraint device. For this purpose, the wavelet-transformed signal, on the one hand, is used for determining features in order to determine a crash type, and, on the other hand, to determine the braking acceleration energy. If the braking acceleration energy lies above a preestablished threshold value and if the identified crash type requires a triggering of the restraint system, then the restraint system is triggered.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Michael Roelleke, Thomas Jauch, Armin Koehler
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Publication number: 20030034195Abstract: Disclosed is an all terrain vehicle with an improved engine and power train. The engine is located under the seat and the hingably seat provides for ready access to the engine for maintenance and repair. The engine is placed in the vehicle such that the crankshaft is parallel to the line of travel; that is to say that the crankshaft is in line with the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. The engine has a split output shaft; that is to say, two output shafts. One shaft extends forwardly of the engine to a front transmission on the front axle and the second extends rearwardly to a rear transmission on the rear axle. The output shafts run directly to the transmissions in a straight line. The front and rear output shafts are connected by gears which enables different ratios of revolution between the front and rear axle if necessary. The all terrain vehicle is also equipped with a unique parking gear which essentially locks the two output shafts to the transmission housing.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: BOMBARDIER INC.Inventors: Roger Rioux, Claude Gagnon, Johann Holzleitner
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Publication number: 20030034196Abstract: In an electric power steering system comprising a worm speed reduction gear unit using an hourglass worm, a pitch diameter of the worm wheel is smaller than that of the hourglass worm. Therefore, when the transmission torque between the worm and worm wheel is relatively small, only one or two of the teeth of the worm wheel engage the worm, and a certain resiliency is produced in the meshing between the worm and worm wheel. Therefore, when the steering angle is small or the transmission torque is small, the electric motor may not be energized but does not apply any substantial resistance to the turning of the steering shaft. Therefore, the vehicle operator is prevented from receiving any undesirable interferences or reaction from the electric motor even when the steering angle is small or the transmission torque is small.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yasuo Shimizu, Katsuji Watanabe
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Publication number: 20030034197Abstract: A sound mitigation system and method reduce the transmission of acoustic output from explosions underwater. The system is submerged to bottom terrain of a body of water and has at a series of gas-generating devices providing volumes of gas that are fed to refractory heat resistant tubing assemblies and flexible general tubing assemblies. The heat resistant and general tubing assemblies extend between adjacent gas generating devices and are provided with at least one row of holes to vent bubbles of gas and form a virtually continuous curtain of bubbles rising to the surface of the water between detonating explosives and areas of interest. The curtain of bubbles mitigates the effects of the explosions on marine mammals and endangered, threatened, or protected species within an area adjacent to the explosions.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: The United States of America represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: William S. Jones, Holly Santoli, Robert P. Richter, Carmen M. Ferrer
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Publication number: 20030034198Abstract: A dilatant circumaural hearing protection earcup soft seal is disclosed. The design of the instant invention is predicated on the theory that the primary function of an effective earcup soft seal is to hold the earcup it is attached to stiffly against the user's head. Experimental evidence shows that an earcup is “pumped” in response to acoustic pressure and reconstructs the acoustic signal inside the earcup as a diaphragm, even though very little noise may pass directly through the earcup itself. The soft seals of the instant invention utilize the dilatant property of some materials to provide a soft seal that conforms slowly and comfortably to a user's head but is stiff under the influence of high shear rate acoustic pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: William B. Cushman, Mark W. Stevenson
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Publication number: 20030034199Abstract: An improved structure of speaker cabinet comprising a housing opened on one side thereof, and comprising a front panel, wherein, a plurality of intermediate speakers can be held firm and get increased connecting strength when the front panel is integrally connected with the housing to thereby offset the frontward and rearward thrusts of the speakers. Moreover, a plurality of hollow posts located at the positions in correspondence with those of the connecting areas of the speakers to the cabinet can be filled therein with vibration absorbing material in order to reduce vibration at the earliest time. Such a design not only can reduce volume and weight of the cabinet, but also can improve sound quality and provide a hidden port to improve beauty and waterproofing effect of the cabinet.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Po-An Chuang
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Publication number: 20030034200Abstract: A shielding enclosure, for example an appliance sound enclosure comprises a base, a front shield and a top shield. The base is fixed onto a surface and has a back wall and pair of sidewalls connected to the back wall. The front shield is adapted to be rotatably mounted onto the base and is slidingly connected to the top shield by a pin-in-slot connection. The top shield is adapted to be rotatably mounted onto the base and is slidingly connected to the front shield by a pin-in-slot connection. The front and top shields have arcuate panels that, in combination with the rotation around the base, provide for an enclosure around an appliance.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Applicant: Hamilton Beach/Proctor Silex, Inc.Inventors: John Robert Bohannon, Brian Williamson
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Publication number: 20030034201Abstract: An exhaust pipe includes an outer pipe and an inner pipe firmly fitted in the outer pipe. An air intake pipe and an outlet pipe having a comparatively small diameter are positioned respectively at two opposite ends of the outer pipe and respectively communicating with the front and the rear end of the inner pipe. Besides, a great number of through holes are bored around the wall of the inner pipe. Then an intermediate pipe having numerous through holes around the wall is fitted around the inner pipe, with a plurality of gaps formed between both the pipes. The muffling cotton is filled in a space between the outer pipe and the intermediate pipe. Thus, the intermediate pipe is easy to assemble, kept secured firmly for a long time and achieving effectual muffling.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2001Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Min-Chyr Lin
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Publication number: 20030034202Abstract: A silencer for use with ultrasonic meters to reduce stray ultrasonic noise that could cause measurement inaccuracies. The silencer comprises a tubular body having at least two baffles spaced apart from one another. The baffles are preferably formed of an open-cell, reticulated metal foam material that absorbs noise in the ultrasonic range of frequencies under high-pressure operating conditions. The silencer is a reasonable flow conditioner and can be mounted directly to the meter without disturbing the flow.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 19, 2000Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Klaus Joachim Zanker
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Publication number: 20030034203Abstract: A device for controlling movement along at least one rope. The belay/rappel device comprises a main body having an open first end and an open second end. A rope securement mechanism adjacent the open second end retains the looped portion of the rope with the rope slidable about the rope securement means and the first rope strand and the second rope strand extending through the open first end. A carabiner is received within at least one carabiner opening formed in the main body with the first rope strand being positioned between the carabiner and the main body. The main body is rotatable to a released position allowing the rope to slide about the rope securement means through the main body and upon release of the main body and automatically rotatable to a locked position with the carabiner pinching the first rope strand against the main body inhibiting movement of the rope relative to the main body.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Michael Hewlett, Kristopher Boldt
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Publication number: 20030034204Abstract: A fire escape chute for a building including an elongated tube having an open upper end, an open lower end, and an intermediate extent therebetween. The elongated tube includes a support structure secured to and supporting the intermediate extent thereof whereby the open upper end is positioned within the opening of the building and the open lower end is positioned on the ground surface. A door is hingedly coupled with the open upper end of the elongated tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 13, 2000Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventors: Daniel E. Dotson, Pete R. Bishop