Patents Issued in May 13, 2003
-
Patent number: 6560797Abstract: A disposable blanket includes a cover body having a size adapted for covering at least a body portion of a user so as to provide an insulating purpose. The cover body includes a plurality of cover sheets overlappedly attached together in an edge to edge manner, wherein a positioning opening having a predetermined length is formed on a side portion of the cover body for wearing the cover body in front of the user. Therefore, the user is able to wear the disposable blanket on his or her neck such that the entire disposable blanket can maintain its position on the user's body so as to prevent the disposable blanket from being unfolded unintentionally.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Thawatchai Maturaporn
-
Patent number: 6560798Abstract: A communication and control device for attachment to the head end of a hospital bed for positioning a voice activated communication and control module adjacent a patient's head.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey R. Welling, Michael E. Poehner
-
Patent number: 6560799Abstract: A support mechanism system has a mechanism base at which a support plate for accepting a treatment and/or examination subject can be detachably attached, and a transport gurney and at least two support plates that are fixable at the transport gurney. One of the support plates is fashioned as an operation plate for carrying out a surgical intervention at a subject, and the other a radiological support plate having at least one radiation-transparent region. Either plate can be optionally attached to the base by a fastening arrangement that is compatible with both plates. The base also has at least one connector for providing operation support for an implement or component used in a surgical procedure.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Michael Pflaum, Reinhard Zitzmann
-
Patent number: 6560800Abstract: A lumbar reinforcement device for supporting the lower back of a contacting human body, including two cushionable structures connectively separated by a center structure, wherein the cushionable structures define inner spaces which hold removable inserts containing a deformably cushionable supporting material, said cushionable structures being deformable upon contact with a human body and which moldably deform to the shape of the contacting human body to provide support thereto.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Andrew Draves
-
Patent number: 6560801Abstract: A two-layered textile product and method of making the product is disclosed. The product comprises a first layer, and a second layer. A woven seam connects the first layer to the second layer to form a textile structure. The textile structure includes an inner surface and an outer surface, with the woven seam arranged in a predetermined pattern to form a margin that corresponds to the exterior dimensions of the finished product. A seam opening of a predetermined length is provided so that the textile structure is capable of inversion by pulling the inner surface fabric through the seam opening so that the inner surface is then exposed to form the outer margin of a two-layered textile product. The product may be stuffed to form a decorative pillow or like product. Decorative fabrics and tapestries may be used in the finished product.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: The Manual Woodworkers and Weavers, Inc.Inventors: James G. Clarke, Michael S. Walker
-
Patent number: 6560802Abstract: A pillow capable of being highly useful and convenient to a user. An alarm is arranged at a predetermined portion of a stuffed doll which is made in imitation of a real or fanciful animal or the like. The alarm may be actuated through a timer. The timer may be driven through a cell or a spring. The alarm is constructed so as to generate sound, voice, vibration, light or the like.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1999Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Tokyo Mimore Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masaharu Fujii
-
Patent number: 6560803Abstract: A pneumatic seat adjustable for a bedside chair, wheelchair or other type of seats, having a series of air cells controlled and operated through a micro-chip. The cells are inflated to a level of inflation adjusted to the weight of the body. In an order pre-set in the micro-chip, one cell at a time sequentially deflates for a pre-determined length of time, thus allowing unobstructed blood flow to the part of the body above the deflated cell. After the determined period of time, the cell is re-inflated to the previous level of inflation and another cell deflates. The pattern of inflation and deflation may be altered to create diverse programs and numerous applications.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Levy Zur
-
Patent number: 6560804Abstract: The present invention relates to a system and a method for detecting and monitoring the distance between a patient and a reference point on an inflatable air mattress and for controlling the air supply to that mattress in relation to such distance. The patient distance sensing system includes a rigid support frame such as a bed frame, an inflatable air mattress positioned atop the bed frame with the upper surface of the inflatable air mattress forming a patient support surface, an air supply operable to provide controlled variations in air supply, and a series of patient distance sensing devices. Such devices including a heterodyning proximation detector, a force responsive distance sensing device, and a light responsive sensing device. Each device is operable to act separately or cooperatively in maintaining a therapeutically beneficial patient support surface through variable control of the delivery of inflation pressure to the air mattress.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1998Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: KCI Licensing, Inc.Inventors: William M. Wise, Cesar Z. Lina, X. Lu Zheng, Thomas A. Boynton
-
Patent number: 6560805Abstract: A spade includes a shank, a handle coupled to the shank, and a blade coupled to the shank. A cutting tool such as a saw is coupled to the handle, which has an internal channel sized to receive the cutting tool.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Alterra Holdings CorporationInventors: Edgar A. Dallas, Michael Brock
-
Patent number: 6560806Abstract: The present invention is directed to a process of treating carpets and other large fabric coverings with a product dispensed from an appliance. This appliance comprises a reservoir for the product and means for dispensing this product which comprises a detachable and extendible spray arm. Preferably, this appliance is a portable electrical sprayer, and the spray arm comprises a handle, a telescopingly extendible wand connected to this handle, and a dispensing tube that is attached outside the extendible wand, and at least one portion of the detachable and telescopingly extendible wand is arranged inside the handle, when the spray arm is in the collapsed position.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: John Russell Lawson, Marcel Vanderbroek, Jelle Dankert Vuijk
-
Patent number: 6560807Abstract: A reinforcement for a building works structure comprising an assembly of solid wires. The wires are mutually parallel to form a bundle and the reinforcement comprises a sheath made of plastic material enclosing the bundle and providing it with cohesion.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Freyssinet International (STUP)Inventors: Jérôme Stubler, Patrick Ladret, Jean-Claude Percheron
-
Patent number: 6560808Abstract: A swimming pool cleaner is operable through a vibratory movement of its housing through a flow of water past a vibratory element carried within the housing. A friction support is carried by the housing and engages a surface to be cleaned. The friction support has a first end pivotally attached to the housing and a second free end in frictional contact with the surface to be cleaned. The friction support is further biased toward a first orientation and limited in its movement therefrom as the friction support is displaced during vibration of the housing and movement of the pool cleaner.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventors: Brian Phillipson, Kevin J. Phillipson, Pavel Sebor
-
Patent number: 6560809Abstract: A substrate cleaning apparatus comprises a side surface cleaning member and a peripheral edge cleaning member. The side surface cleaning member includes a cylindrical scrub cleaning body having a cylindrical surface and opposite ends. The cylindrical scrub cleaning body is adapted to be rotated about its axis with the cylindrical surface thereof engaged with a side surface of a substrate to be cleaned to effect scrub cleaning of the side surface. The peripheral edge cleaning member is adapted to be engaged with a peripheral edge of the substrate to effect scrub cleaning of the peripheral edge. The peripheral edge cleaning member is attached to one of the opposite ends of the cylindrical scrub cleaning body so as to be rotated along with the cylindrical scrub cleaning body about the axis of the cylindrical scrub cleaning body. The peripheral edge cleaning member comprises a sponge member adapted to be engaged with and scrub the peripheral edge of the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Ebara CorporationInventor: Koji Atoh
-
Patent number: 6560810Abstract: A collapsible toothbrush includes a body member that has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is pivotally coupled to the second portion such that the first portion is selectively positionable adjacent the second portion facilitating compact storage of the body member. The first portion has a plurality of bristles. The bristles are adapted to be rubbed against teeth of the user for cleaning the teeth of the user. The bristles are positioned opposite the second portion of the body member such that the body member is adapted for is held in a hand of the user when the bristles are used to clean the teeth of the user.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Michael A. Jacobson
-
Patent number: 6560811Abstract: A compact optical fiber cleaning apparatus includes a base plate and a retaining plate having a plurality of apertures. The base plate is configured to hold one or more resilient absorbers situated under the retaining plate. In operation, a wiper, such as a piece of lint-free cloth, is placed over the absorber and the retainer is closed. When closed, the plurality of apertures within the retainer allow wiper material to be forced through the apertures by the resilient absorber material. Each section of exposed wiper may be employed for a different cleaning purpose. For example, a solvent may be applied to one exposed section of the wiper, or to the underlying absorber material, with another exposed section of the wiper left dry. A technician may then clean an optical fiber endface, by first wiping the endface on the “wet” section of wiper material, then wiping the endface on the “dry” section of wiper material.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.Inventors: Dennis L Krause, Elaine Fontes Parnagian
-
Patent number: 6560812Abstract: A golf ball cleaning device having a bag for cleaning golf balls, a club clasp for attaching and detaching the bag to and from the putter, an extension cable to connect the club clasp and cleaning bag and a detachable towel to wipe or dry the ball after cleaning it.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Henry Aaron Pettway
-
Patent number: 6560813Abstract: A mitt worn on a hand for cleaning. The mitt includes a section for the palm of the hand, a section for the fingers, and a compartment on either side of a central axis of the mitt for a thumb. The mitt is capable of being used on either the right or the left hand, and both sides of the mitt may be used without moving the mitt from one hand to the other. The mitt is formed using an electrostatically-charged material, a material capable of acquiring a triboelectric charge, or a material that is treated with a tackifying agent in order to optimize cleaning efficiency. Also disclosed is a method of forming a mitt for cleaning.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: Colin W. Brown, Edward Francis, Jeffrey H. Fujimoto, Richard Graceffa, James R. Nielsen
-
Patent number: 6560814Abstract: In a windshield wiper arm with a first component arm (10), a second component arm (12) and a hinge which joins the first and the second component arm to one another with a folding capacity so that the two component arms can be swivelled relative to one another out of an initial position into a pivoted-up position, the pivoted-up position will be precisely defined. For this purpose it is provided that the first component arm is provided with at least one catch (18) and the second component arm is provided with at least one projection (20) which are arranged such that they can make contact with one another in order to prevent swivelling of the two component arms beyond the pivoted-up position.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Laurent Heinrich, Gerd Kuehbauch, Karlheinz Lorenz
-
Patent number: 6560815Abstract: A mop squeezing device is provided for co-operation with a mop head of a mop (49). The mop (49) has a mop head backing (53) which carries mop material (55). The device has a mop surface engaging face (17) and displaced opposite said face (17) abutment means (19). In use the mop head is placed between the mop surface engaging face (17) and the abutment means (19) and the handle of the mop cranked. This, in turn, compresses the mop material (55) and squeezes liquid from the mop material (55). A mop having a backing for mop material is also provided. A two axis swivel connector is provided between the mop head and a mop handle. This allows the mop head to assume multi-axis of orientation during operation.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 1999Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Decor Corporation PTY LTDInventors: James William Brennan, Peter Russell Brewer, Arthur Richard Carlson
-
Patent number: 6560816Abstract: A central vacuum cleaner system is mounted within the wall of a building and includes an in wall mounted enclosure. The enclosure has a front door moveable between open and closed positions, and a vacuum cleaner bag holder in the enclosure moveable between closed and open positions, so that the door engages the holder when the door is moved from the open to the closed position, thereby moving the bag holder from its open to its closed position. A conduit extends from at least one remotely located hose inlet connector to a distal end within the enclosure, with the distal end being inserted into a bag carried by the bag holder when the bag holder is moved to the closed position. A vacuum source, preferably within the enclosure, is adapted to draw air from the inlet connector into the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Vacs America, Inc.Inventor: Clyde W. Harrelson, II
-
Patent number: 6560817Abstract: An apparatus for cleaning floors which recycles waste heat and water to provide greater efficiency. An internal combustion engine is used to power the apparatus. Heat from the engine's lubricant is used to heat the wash solution applied to the floor. Heat from the engine's cooling air, radiator, and catalytic converter is used to dry the cleaned floor. A drying brush is also used to accelerate drying. Used rinse water is recycled for use as wash solution. Exhaust from the engine is used to preheat the floor to be cleaned. The engine may be used to propel the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventors: Lenard Deiterman, Alfred Lemke, Carl Lemke
-
Patent number: 6560818Abstract: A molded component or boot is removably fitted to the narrow edges of a commercial carpet cleaning wand otherwise in contact with carpet to be cleaned. Wider bearing surfaces of the attachment or boot allow for smoother action of the carpet cleaning wand over the carpet, without skip or chatter due to directional nap, such as associated with short nap carpets (e.g., berbers or indoor/outdoor carpet). Functional life of the carpet cleaning wand is extended indefinitely through removal and replacement of the attachment. Screw mounting or other simple removable elements facilitate rapid field service. Lightweight molded plastic contributes to ergonomic aspects without impeding any “spray down” or vacuum functions of the wand.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Production Metal Forming, Inc.Inventor: John M. Hasko
-
Patent number: 6560819Abstract: A water-proof grommet is provided which includes a plate-shaped head, a polygonal grommet body, and at least two latch pawls connected at lower ends to the grommet body and arranged on an outside surface of a substantially central portion of the grommet body. The head is substantially flat at a back surface thereof, and the latch pawls are provided at tip end portions with at least one inclined surface inclined outward and downward from the grommet body and at least one adjacent flat portion. The grommet body is adapted to expand radially as a screw is threaded therein, so as to cause an outer surface of the grommet body to deform the latch pawls radially outward and thereby cause at least one of the inclined surface and the adjacent flat portion of the latch pawls to press a member being mounted toward the back surface of the head.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Aoyama Seisakusho Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiromichi Mizuno, Hisashi Ito, Ryuji Utsuno
-
Patent number: 6560820Abstract: In a hinge (1) comprising a frame-side hinge portion (4) adapted to be pre-mounted to a frame (2) and a wing-side hinge portion (6) adapted to be pre-mounted to a door wing (3), wherein the hinge portions (4,6) are articulated to each other and at least one of the hinge portions (4;6) is provided with a height adjustment device (8) comprising attachment holes (10) of oval shapes extending in the adjustment direction, with attachment bolts (14) guided through the attachment holes (10), it is provided that the height adjustment device (8) comprises a releasable locking device (20) which, when in its locking position, holds the hinge portion (4;6) in a central position relative to the screwed attachment bolts (14).Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Prämeta GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Rolf Heisig, Roman Pyschik, Wladislaw Wasiliewski
-
Patent number: 6560821Abstract: A glass door hinge is provided which is self-centering and clamps a glass door between two opposed clamps. The hinge includes a mount, a pair of clamps, a hinge block, a spindle, and a biasing member for engaging the spindle to return the clamps and the door to a centered position. Each of the clamps is preferably provided with a lipped gasket which isolates the door from the metal hinge components. One of the clamps has a pair of set screws for holding the spindle in position relative to the clamps, and a pair of locking screws for inhibiting movement of the set screws. The set screws and locking screws are concealed from view by being received entirely within the clamp.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: The Group Legacy L.C.Inventors: Craig Miller, William Liao
-
Patent number: 6560822Abstract: A low profile cable tie, preferably a two-piece cable tie, has a low profile locking head with a lateral strap accepting channel and a strap preferably molded with a right angle bend that is retained in this state during non-use. The cable tie has a clean exterior appearance, including a top surface free of openings and a smooth lateral opening. With this cable tie, a strap accepting channel is provided in the locking head that is substantially parallel to a strap attachment axis. The strap accepting channel divides the locking head into a first part, which is secured to the strap, and a second part which contains a locking device. By providing the locking device on the second part, the first part can be made thinner, allowing the strap accepting channel to be closer to the cable bundle being tied.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Panduit Corp.Inventors: Jack E. Caveney, Robert J. Krisel, James A. Brownlee
-
Patent number: 6560823Abstract: A method for optimizing the length of a blank for an open-type clamp with overlapping band portions, a tightening device and a device with complementary profiles in the inner and outer clamping band portions to assure a gap-free and stepless inner clamping surface, according to which the location of the beginning of the profile at the inner clamping band portions in the condition of engagement of the mechanical connection and non-tightening of the tightening device is determined as a function of the tightening necessary to reach the diameter of dmax; by locating the transition from full band width to the profile in the inner clamping band portion with the use of this method clamping band material savings can be achieved in the clamp made in accordance with this method.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Hans Oetiker AG Maschinen- und ApparatefabrikInventor: Paul M. Craig, Jr.
-
Patent number: 6560824Abstract: A boot-band, of which the ear portion is highly rigid, that lowers the prominence of the ear portion. An outer overlap portion and an inner overlap portion are fixed together by inserting hooking claws into holes, with the band-body being curled into the shape of a ring. In a region of the band-body in the circumferential direction is formed an ear portion that has a pair of outwardly prominent leg portions and a bridge portion that connects the leg portions. At the opposite ends of the bridge portion, along a line that is perpendicular to the circumference, are formed rib-like parts that are inwardly bent and between which is formed a dowel portion. The rib-like parts are so arc-shaped that the inward prominence, which protrudes into the ear portion, increases toward the middle of the bridge portion in the clamping direction. The length of the rib-like parts is not long enough for the rib-like parts to reach the curved portions, but is 60% or more of the length of the bridge portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshiharu Kitamura, Yoshihiro Hemmi, Takashi Ogino
-
Patent number: 6560825Abstract: A webbing length adjustor adapted to clamp webbing when tension is applied to a tension end of the webbing. The adjustor has a webbing guide, a clamp element pivotally mounted on the webbing guide, a locking cam on the clamp element which in a locked position clamps the webbing between the locking cam and the webbing guide to prevent movement of the webbing through the adjustor when tension is applied, a release actuator, and a projection on the clamp element that abuts against the webbing between the locking cam and the tension end thereof so that the webbing exerts a force against the projection which urges the clamp element in a direction that holds or moves the locking cam in or into a locked position. The projection is adapted to always slightly deflect the webbing, even when the clamp element is in its locked position.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Britax Child-Care Products Pty Ltd.Inventor: Wieslaw Maciejczyk
-
Patent number: 6560826Abstract: The present invention concerns a clasp (4) for assembling first and second flexible strands (1, 2) including a buckle (6) attached to the first (1) of the two strands, while the second strand (2) penetrates the buckle (6), characterised in that the buckle (6) includes fixed catching means (14) which are caught in the second strand (2), and in that it includes an unlocking device (22) able to be actuated manually, this unlocking device (22) allowing the second strand (2) to be raised to release it from the catching means (14) and to slip it out of the buckle (6).Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: The Swatch Group Management Services AGInventor: David Sekanina
-
Patent number: 6560827Abstract: The present invention is an elastomeric sling furniture gasket including a substantially rod shaped member adapted to be longitudinally received and laterally retained in a tubing slot, a flexible but resilient gasket sheet depending substantially the length of the rod shaped member and adapted to extend out of the tubing slot, and a fabric affixing means on the gasket sheet distal to the rod shaped member adapted to rigidly secure a fabric material forming a support area for an occupant.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Jan S. Gross
-
Patent number: 6560828Abstract: Stowage pieces (10) are used to secure containers on board ships against horizontal displacement. The stowage pieces (10) have an abutment (15), which on opposite sides has stowage cones (16, 17) which engage in upper and lower corner fittings (12, 13) of containers stacked one above another. These stowage pieces (10) must be fitted to upper corner fittings (13) of the containers already stowed on board the ship before a next container is stowed. This requires the use of auxiliary personnel on the containers already stowed on board the ship, which more recent safety regulations no longer permit. The stowage piece (10) according to the invention has on its upper stowage cone (16) a rotatable cross-latch (21), by means of which the stowage piece (10) can be locked under lower corner fittings (12) of a container from the pier, before the container comes on board the ship. As a result, auxiliary personnel on the containers located on board the ship become superfluous.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Mac-Gregor Conver GmbHInventor: Jürgen Gloystein
-
Patent number: 6560829Abstract: A zipper pull tab includes a main body and a fastening member of a pliable and tough material. The main body is provided at one end with a retaining projection and a fixation hole. The fastening member is fastened to the main body and is provided at the free end with a retaining slot. The fastening member is used to fasten a zipper slide such that the free end of the fastening member is put through the zipper slide, and such that the fastening member is bent toward the main body to enable the retaining slot of the fastening member to retain therein the retaining projection of the main body, thereby resulting in formation of a loop by the fastening member.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Shou Mao Chen
-
Patent number: 6560830Abstract: An improved structure of a plug-in fastening device is disclosed. An improved structure of a plug-in fastening device having a female fastener and a male fastener, characterized in that the two sides of the housing of the female fastener are provided with resilient legs and the interior of the housing is provided with a positioning sliding block and a fastening rod, by means of the top urging and pressing of a compression spring, via the pushing of the controlling button positioned at the housing of the female fastener, the protruded block of the fastening rod contacts with a positioning sliding block zigzag recess and a slot, thereby the dislocation of the fastening device due to external force is prevented.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Chen-Lung Chi
-
Patent number: 6560831Abstract: A device to prevent the unraveling of common bow-tie shoelace knots. The four ends of a standard bow-tie knot (two loops and two loose ends) are gathered together in a stalk-like shape, and encircled snugly with an adjustable restraining material, which can then be anchored to the shoe to prevent the knot stalk from flopping around or getting snagged on environmental materials (e.g., branches, twigs, weeds, etc.). Referred to herein as a “lace lasso,” the device is light-weight, simple, and rapidly installed and attached to simple and common shoelace knots. The restraining material can be chord, elastic material, or fabric; adjustment in snugness and tension can be accomplished by small spring-loaded ripstop cylinders commonly used in camping gear, or Velcro fabric strips. The device can be attached to the shoe by caribiner-type clips or Velcro fabric strips which are connected to the restraining material wrapped around the ends of the shoelace knot.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Neil C. Schoen
-
Patent number: 6560832Abstract: The present invention relates to an airbag cushion which exhibits a low amount of seam usage (in order to attach at least two fabric panels or portions of a panel together) in correlation to an overall high amount of available inflation airspace within the cushion itself. These correlated elements are now combined for the first time in what is defined as an effective seam usage index (being the quotient of the length of overall seams on the cushions and the available inflation airspace volume). The inventive cushion must have at least one substantially straight seam and must possess an effective seam usage factor of less than about 0.11. A cushion exhibiting such a low seam usage factor and also comprising an integrated looped pocket for the disposition of an inflator can is also provided as well as an overall vehicle restraint system comprising the inventive airbag cushion.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Milliken & CompanyInventor: Ramesh Keshavaraj
-
Patent number: 6560833Abstract: A method of manufacture an ink jet head in which an ink is jetted from a nozzle hole by applying an electric voltage to an electrode so as to deform ink chambers divided by a partition wall. The method includes the steps of providing plural piezoelectric base plates having polarization side by side on a first non-piezoelectric plate, forming plural grooves for the ink chambers on the piezoelectric base plates and at connecting portions where each edge of the plural piezoelectric base plates provided side by side comes to face other edge; and mounting a second non-piezoelectric base plate on the plural piezoelectric base plates as so to cover the plural grooves so that the ink chambers divided by the partition wall are formed.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 1999Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Konica CorporationInventors: Shinichi Nishi, Katsuaki Komatsu, Takao Yamaguchi, Kunihiro Yamauchi, Yoshio Takeuchi, Kunio Ito, Hiroyuki Nomori, Takemasa Namiki, Shozo Kikugawa
-
Patent number: 6560834Abstract: A device forms metallic cages for structures made of reinforced concrete, the metallic cages providing longitudinal rods associated with transverse stirrups, the transverse stirrups having an at least partly closed shape and being distanced lengthwise. The device includes a supporting frame, and a plurality of housing seatings arranged in a longitudinal line on the supporting frame at least according to a desired interaxis (“i”) or a multiple of the interaxis (“i”), each of the housing seatings cooperating with a relative means to position and retain the stirrups defining their erect position on a substantially vertical plane. A plurality of transverse arms to support the longitudinal rods lie separated from each other on a horizontal plane, the transverse arms being interposed between the housing seatings. Means are provided for relative displacement in height between the transverse arms and the means to position and retain the stirrups.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: BCD Marcel Wirth - Bending and Cutting DevicesInventor: Marcel Wirth
-
Patent number: 6560835Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed for finishing the inside of hollow work-pieces such as long hydraulic or pneumatic cylinders. A rotatable skiving and roller burnishing tool is advanced into one end of the work-piece and advanced through the cylindrical interior of the work-piece. The skiving section is located at the front of the skiving and roller burnishing tool, and the roller burnishing section comprises the rearward section of the tool. The skiving section of the tool has a knife holding portion which holds a skiving knife to skive the interior from a start diameter to a larger, finish diameter. The skiving section also has a plurality of cavities, forward of the knife holding section, which are disposed circumferentially around the skiving section of the tool. A plurality of probe centering location finders are located in the respective cavities.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Sierra Machinery, Inc.Inventors: Ronald J. Porter, Krestine Corbin
-
Patent number: 6560836Abstract: The hand tool for extracting bolts is a specialized marine oriented bolt extractor for use in extracting what are commonly called “Body Bound Bolts” from motor vessel shaft couplings. The body of the bolt extractor would be made of heavy duty steel and comprises a stationary flange and a moving flange. Located on the front side of the stationary flange are two cylindrical bolt housings for the bound bolts and two cylindrical extractor rod housings. The extractor rod housings pass through both flanges and house the 180 degree hook shaped extractor rods. One end of the extractor rods is secured to the moving flange with a washer and a nut, and the other end is placed against the bound bolts. A jack bolt passes through the moving flange such that the end of it is placed against the stationary flange. As the jack bolt is tightened, the moving flange moves away from the stationary flange and the extractor rods apply pressure to the bound bolts. This process is continued until the bolts are freed.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventor: Richard Briscoe
-
Patent number: 6560837Abstract: An assembly device for a shaft damper. The assembly device comprises a holding member for holding a damper. The holding member is releasably engaged with a pair of parallel elongate members. An actuator is connected to the elongate members and to a piston. A shaft damper is inserted into and temporarily held by the holding member. The holding member containing the shaft damper is inserted into a shaft a predetermined distance. The actuator then slidingly retracts the holding member while a pressing member at an end of the piston simultaneously holds the damper in the proper position in the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: The Gates CorporationInventors: Yahya Hodjat, Lin Zhu, Leslie Cole
-
Patent number: 6560838Abstract: A method for repairing a sheet metal (14) of a car body (10), which comprises the steps of removing a damaged part, bending a portion near the end part of a repair member (22) with a sheet-metal repair tool, and bonding the portion near the end part of the repair member to a portion near the end part of the sheet metal (14) in place of the removed part.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventors: Akio Ito, Eiji Tokuhara
-
Patent number: 6560839Abstract: A method for using a moisture-protective container to protect an integrated circuit is disclosed herein. The integrated circuit is placed into a container having a first surface and a second surface that is opposite the first surface, and then the container is closed with a seal. Next, the seal is broken to remove the integrated circuit for evaluation. After evaluation without subjecting the integrated circuit to burn-in, the integrated circuit is restored to the container and the container is resealed with the seal. Lastly, the seal of the container is broken to connect the integrated circuit to a substrate without elevating the temperature surrounding the integrated circuit above the temperature at which evaluation occurred.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1997Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Integrated Device Technology, Inc.Inventor: Poh-Siew Tow
-
Patent number: 6560840Abstract: A method and apparatus for aligning and heat staking a plurality of stackable junction box components having pilot holes normally used only for registration and alignment purposes. A heat stakable element is inserted through the pilot holes and used to secure the stacked components through the pilot holes. This eliminates the need for heat stake and stake hole structure built into the various junction box layers, thereby freeing up valuable junction box layout space for additional bus bar runs and electrical component receptacles. In a preferred form the heat stakable element is formed in the shape of a pilot pin to engage the pilot holes and simultaneously register and heat stake them together.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Yazaki North AmericaInventors: Roderick Rhys Jenkins, David Michael Kazarian, Jerome Adam David Duhr
-
Patent number: 6560841Abstract: An apparatus and method for building signs combining tile and wood, such as but not limited to nameplates, is disclosed. The nameplates are produced in several steps, including woodworking, sanding, tile-cutting, stencil-applying, sandblasting, and polishing.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2002Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Inventors: Mark James Letherer, Christopher Mark Tanner
-
Patent number: 6560842Abstract: The present invention provides an improved method of constructing a food display case. The construction techniques make use of a crimping tool which stitches together overlapping metal flange portions of the component display panel. The resulting stitched seams permit the rapid assembly of the non-glass structural components. In situ foaming of the spaces between the interior and exterior display walls, floor panels, and top panels, provides a rigid spaced connection between the adjacent panels and provides for the overall rigidity and increased strength of the resulting display case.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Specialty Equipment Companies, Inc.Inventors: Richard D. Kusel, Harry A. Brancheau
-
Patent number: 6560843Abstract: The present invention relates to an index/seal pin indexed precisely in a resin transfer molding die to assure the desired resin-to-fiber ratio in the mold part, and, thereby, to produce reliably and consistently a part of minimum weight with adequate strength. The index/seal pin seals via replaceable O-rings on the threaded stem of the pin to prevent low viscosity resin from exiting a mold cavity and invading the threads, bolts, pins, or other elements of the internal mandrel. The pin also assures accurate positioning of a mandrel in the die cavity while it allows the entire inner mandrel to be enclosed and sealed within the mold cavity, simplifying the sealing system.Type: GrantFiled: October 8, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Thomas R. Cundiff, Scott A. Miller, Donald L. Conaway
-
Patent number: 6560844Abstract: Proper registration between layers of a laminated multi-layer interconnect can be achieved by precisely dimensioning the alignment plate, selecting the materials of which the alignment plate is composed to have the same thermal coefficient of expansion as the layers being laminated, and/or providing the alignment plate with pins sized to be equal to or larger the alignment/registration holes of the layers.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventor: Richard J. Pommer
-
Patent number: 6560845Abstract: A prefinished curved reflector suitable for use in recessed lighting, downlighting, head lamps, and tail lamps is made from metal sheet, preferably an aluminum alloy sheet. An outer surface of the metal sheet is either anodized, laminated, or polymer coated to provide desired appearance and performance. Surprisingly, the metal sheet retains its reflectivity and resistance to corrosion even after deformation into a curved reflector.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2000Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Alcoa Inc.Inventors: Daniel L. Serafin, Robert E. Bombalski, Jean Ann Skiles, Albert L. Askin, Sallie L. Blake
-
Patent number: 6560846Abstract: Method and apparatus for effecting an interference fit of a first part and a second part, wherein a thrust force is applied to the second part in a direction toward the first part to thereby accelerate the second part for applying a kinetic energy to the second part to cause abutting contact of the second part with the first part for achieving the interference fit of the first and second parts, and wherein the initiation of acceleration of the second part by the thrust force is inhibited until the thrust force has been increased to a predetermined threshold, and is permitted when the thrust force has been increased to the predetermined threshold.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1997Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shigemi Shioya, Wataru Fuwa