Patents Issued in July 24, 2003
  • Publication number: 20030136557
    Abstract: A fluid well pumping system includes at least one stage for removing fluid from a well. The at least one stage includes a product line assembly adapted for positioning in the well casing as a unit. The product line assembly includes a first product tube and first and second gas lines in a passage of the product tube. The at least one stage also include a fluid reservoir adapted for positioning in a well casing as a unit that is attachable to the product line assembly in end-to-end fashion. The fluid reservoir includes a housing defining a chamber for storage of fluid and a float in the chamber. The fluid reservoir also includes a third gas line in fluid communication with the first gas line, a fourth gas line in fluid communication with the second gas line, and a product line in fluid communication with the product tube when assembled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: John E. Marvel, Michael A. Porch, G. Ronald Stoughton
  • Publication number: 20030136558
    Abstract: An oil shale formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Heat may be provided from one or more heat sources. Heat may be allowed to transfer from the heat sources to a section of the formation. Hydrocarbons, H2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. Conditions in a section of the formation may be controlled to produced a desired product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Scott Lee Wellington, Ilya Emil Berchenko, Eric Pierre de Rouffignac, Thomas David Fowler, Robert Charles Ryan, Gordon Thomas Shahin, George Leo Stegemeier, Harold J. Vinegar, Etuan Zhang
  • Publication number: 20030136559
    Abstract: An oil shale formation may be treated using an in situ thermal process. Heat may be provided to the treatment area. Heat may be allowed to transfer from at least one heat source to a section of the formation. Pressure within a portion of the formation may be controlled. Hydrocarbons, H2, and/or other formation fluids may be produced from the formation. In some embodiments, the pressure may be controlled to obtain a desired property in the produced fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Scott Lee Wellington, Ilya Emil Berchenko, Eric Pierre de Rouffignac, Thomas David Fowler, Robert Charles Ryan, Gordon Thomas Shahin, George Leo Stegemeier, Harold J. Vinegar, Etuan Zhang
  • Publication number: 20030136560
    Abstract: A method is described for using an electro-rheological fluid as a drilling and completion fluid or as a well service or fracturing fluid. By adjusting the viscosity of the fluid through application of an electrical potential to the fluid, the fluid has enhanced flexibility and multiplicity of purpose over prior art fluids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Ali Mese, Mohamed Soliman
  • Publication number: 20030136561
    Abstract: A method of isolating a section of downhole tubing comprises: running a length of expandable tubing (20) into a tubing-lined borehole (12, 14) and positioning the expandable tubing (20) across a section of tubing to be isolated; deforming at least portions of the expandable tubing (36, 40) to increase the diameter of the portions to sealingly engage the tubing (14) and to isolate the tubing section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul David Metcalfe, Neil Andrew Abercrombie Simpson
  • Publication number: 20030136562
    Abstract: Method and apparatus are presented for perforating a subterranean formation so as to establish fluid communication between the formation and a wellbore, the wellbore having casing cemented therein, the casing having a cement sheath therearound. The casing is perforated with a mechanical perforator and thereafter a propellant material is ignited within the casing thereby perforating the cement sheath. The formation may thereafter be stimulated with an acid stimulator. The mechanical perforator may include use of a toothed wheel, or a needle-punch perforator. The propellant may be deployed in a sleeve and may comprise an abrasive material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Clark E. Robison, Robert C. Pahmiyer, Paul D. Ringgenberg
  • Publication number: 20030136563
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for use in the oil well industry for running in drilling/production liners and sub-sea casings down a borehole on a drill pipe using a running tool with the benefits of surge pressure reduction are disclosed. A surge pressure reduction tool in accordance with the present invention includes a diverter device having a set of flow holes which diverter device can be shifted between a “surge pressure reduction” mode and a “cementing” or “circulation” mode. A tool in accordance with the present invention further includes a volume compensation device which enables the diverter device to shift axially downward into the cementing or circulation mode even where the drilling/production liner or sub-sea casing is plugged with drill cuttings or downhole debris.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Jerry P. Allamon, Jack E. Miller
  • Publication number: 20030136564
    Abstract: This invention relates to a gripping device for a horse's hoof to provide improved grip to the surface on which the hoof contacts, and a method therefor. The gripping device comprises an elastomeric or polymeric material integrally molded to a gripping plate whereby to form a pad and a surface gripping section that extends upwardly from the plate and in part above the pad. The gripping device spreads shock and concussive forces evenly through the device, distributing pressure over the entire surface of the hoof. The present device provides traction protection and has therapeutic shoeing applications. The present device may be used in conjunction with a hospital plate which overlies an injury to the hoof wherein the elastomeric or polymeric material is cut out at the wound and overlies same, the hospital plate fitting into the cut out portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Robert W. Coulombe
  • Publication number: 20030136565
    Abstract: A sod-laying machine having a low center of gravity and a seated operator position adjacent the roll of sod being placed is disclosed. The superior visibility available to the operator makes it possible to place the sod more accurately and with less need for subsequent adjustment than has been possible previously. The machine has sod roll lifting arms that can be spaced apart to lift and place rolls having any of the common large sod roll widths. The machine can be configured to lay sod that is rolled with either the grass side or the dirt side outermost. Propulsion, roll lifting and roll width adjustment is hydraulic with continuously variable speed drive. Turf scuffing is minimized by trailing caster wheels and independently controllable drive wheels mounted close to the location of the sod roll.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Jonathan Michael Peterson
  • Publication number: 20030136566
    Abstract: A multi-functional water jet weeder, cultivator, root waterer, and soil aerator device comprising a telescopic rod with an inclined handle grip, and having at least two inter-changeable spraying heads of different size with two rows of multiple metal spikes surrounded by water jets, combinable with a water hose having a quick disconnect unit at the opposite end of the device, and an on/off water control switch on the handle grip. A fertilizer or herbicide can be added by attaching a reservoir on the handle grip.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: David C. Saeger
  • Publication number: 20030136567
    Abstract: A hand-held gardening tool including a wedge shaped portion and a handle preferably having a substantially knob shape. The handle is shaped so as to allow the user to grip the handle with the palm and fingers of a hand and use the invention while simultaneously minimizing wrist and hand strain. The wedge shaped portion is shaped so as to allow the user to insert the wedge shaped portion into soil, the thin blade portion being inserted first. After insertion, the invention is rocked back and forth and/or side to side to create a space for a plant to be planted by displacing, rather than removing, the soil. The gardening tool of the invention allows plants to be planted with minimal damage to any surrounding root systems or plants and minimal soil removal, in less time and with less mess than traditional planting methods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Helen R. Wherry
  • Publication number: 20030136568
    Abstract: A tool carrier is described for attachment to or in combination with skid steer vehicle. The preferred carrier includes an elongated frame including forward and rearward ends, and ground supporting wheels at the forward end. A skid steer attachment is provided at the rearward end. The frame further includes a beam extending between the forward and rearward ends, with a tool mount adapted to mount a tool. In preferred forms, the frame is pivotable about an articulation axis adjacent the rearward frame end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Clarence McReynolds, Gene E. Dye
  • Publication number: 20030136569
    Abstract: A piercing apparatus compact in size having a decreased number of hoses is suited for use as an iron runner port-opening machine for a blast furnace or the like furnace in an iron mill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Nippon Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Manabu Gotou, Keisuke Morimitsu, Hiromi Kawakami, Tuneo Iwasaki, Kazuo Haga, Yoshiichi Yatagai, Manpel Hontani, Hiroyuki Takao
  • Publication number: 20030136570
    Abstract: A pneumatic rotary tool has a housing formed primarily from plastic so that the weight and price of the tool are substantially reduced. The air motor is formed for economic assembly while permitting greater structural stability should the housing deflect under an impact. The tool includes a torque selector which controls the amount of pressurized air allowed to enter the air motor, thereby controlling the torque output of the motor. The user may adjust the torque selector to a number of set positions which correspond to discrete torque values. The tool additionally incorporates early and late stage exhaust ports, so that backpressure within the air motor does not slow motor rotation or decrease tool power.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Osamu Izumisawa, Kunihiro Yamamoto
  • Publication number: 20030136571
    Abstract: A light-weight, easily manoeuvrable jig (30) comprised of a pole (8, 9) for resting on the ground or floor holds a powered tool (5) having a handle (5a). The pole includes a vertically expanding device (9) in the form of a pneumatic cylinder for lifting and lowering the tool (5). The tool (5) is mounted on the jig (30) in such a way that, by using the handle (5a), the tool (5) is, to a limited extent, universally angularly manoeuvrable with respect to the jig (30). Vibration-absorbing elastomeric sleeves (12) and (14) are located between the tool (5) and the jig (30) for absorbing vibrations caused by operation of the tool (5). The expanding device (9) is operated by the use of a pressure regulator valve (10) and a combined height-adjustment and air-release valve (11). In another embodiment, the expanding device (9) is operated by trigger (17) of the tool (5), the pressure in the expanding device being controlled by the pressure regulator valve (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Terje Linberg
  • Publication number: 20030136572
    Abstract: There is provided an electromagnetic wave shielding sheet which can effectively prevent an adhesive layer from being colored at the time of etching. The electromagnetic wave shielding sheet comprises a laminate of at least a transparent substrate film, an adhesive layer, and an electromagnetic wave shielding layer. The electromagnetic wave shielding layer is formed of a mesh metal foil with densely arranged openings and being transparent. The adhesive layer is substantially colorless and transparent.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fumihiro Arakawa, Eiji Ohishi, Yasuhiko Ishii
  • Publication number: 20030136573
    Abstract: In order to suppress defective lead forming and defective mounting, a semiconductor device comprises a sealing body which has a square planar shape, a semiconductor chip which lies within the sealing body, and a plurality of leads which are electrically connected with electrodes of the semiconductor chip, which extend inside and outside the sealing body and which are arrayed along latera of the sealing body, wherein an outer lead portion of each of the leads is such that a root part which protrudes out of the sealing body is formed at a lead width being equal to or greater than a lead thickness, and that a mounting part which joins to the root part through an intermediate part is formed at a lead width being less than the lead thickness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshinori Miyaki, Hiromichi Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20030136574
    Abstract: A modular-construction control casing is proposed for the integration of plug-in connectors and additional electronic equipment within an electronic casing which is located, in a decentralized manner, close to the consumer's installation. The casing, having the form of a rectangular parallelepiped, is formed from two identical half-shells, at least one mounting plate or printed-circuit board being mountable within the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: HARTING Electric GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Nicole Kruke, Martin Schmidt, Hartmut Schwettmann, Uwe Sundermeier
  • Publication number: 20030136575
    Abstract: A cover connectable to an electric component is provided for assisting a tool in assembling the electrical component to another structure. The cover includes a body section configured to form a vacuum seal with a tool and a component retention member connected to the body section for releasably securing the body section to an electrical component. The component retention member may include a release arm normally biased toward an electrical component and deflectable away from an electrical component. The component retention member may further include a catch surface configured to be secured to a bottom of an electric component to retain the body section on an electric component. The component retention member may also include a stop beam that extends from an end of the body section at an acute angle to the top surface and is configured maintain an electrical component a desired distance from the body section.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Keith McQuilkin Murr, Michael Sullivan Resner, Alexandra Matthews, Robert Alan Kirker
  • Publication number: 20030136576
    Abstract: A printed circuit support comprises a substrate made of an insulating material, at least one electric current conveying path consisting of a metallization of the substrate, and at least one connection arrangement contiguous with the conveying path. The connection arrangement comprises at least one strip of metallized flexible plastic that forms a section of conductor and is electrically connected to the conveying path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: NEXANS
    Inventor: Bertrand Joly
  • Publication number: 20030136577
    Abstract: The circuit board for mounting semiconductor elements comprises a core substrate 10 formed of a fiber reinforced metal, an insulating layer 14 formed on the core substrate 10, and an interconnection layer 20 formed on the insulating layer 14, whereby the circuit board for mounting semiconductor elements can have a thermal expansion coefficient approximate to that of silicon, and light and thin but has high rigidity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Tomoyuki Abe
  • Publication number: 20030136578
    Abstract: The present invention provides a flexible wiring board for double-side connection capable of improving the reliability of connection to circuit boards and a manufacturing process thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Sony Chemicals Corp.
    Inventors: Soichiro Kishimoto, Yukio Anzai, Osamu Keino
  • Publication number: 20030136579
    Abstract: Solder bumps are created on a substrate of an electronic assembly having lengths that are longer than the widths. The solder bumps are created by locating solder balls of power or ground connections close to one another so that, upon reflow, the solder balls combine. Signal solder balls however remain separated. Capacitors are created by locating power solder bumps adjacent ground solder bumps and extending parallel to one another.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Damion T. Searls, Terrance J. Dishongh, James D. Jackson
  • Publication number: 20030136580
    Abstract: A method of reducing electromagnetic interference and improving signal quality in printed circuit boards with plane splits is described. The use of a lossy slot filling is described. The lossy filling is applied above plane splits and squeezed into the slots. The lossy material helps to damp antenna resonance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Juan Chen, Adam J. Norman, Ponniah Ilavarasan
  • Publication number: 20030136581
    Abstract: A multi chip module substrate arranged with repair vias and repair lines extending between repair vias of the chip sites of the module by which repairs can be effected to overcome defects in the module circuits and a method for effecting the repairs of defects in the circuits of this module. A defect can occur in any one of a first signal via, a second signal via, and a circuit line extending between and intended to electrically connect the first signal via and the second signal via. After a defective circuit is identified, the signal vias of the circuit are isolated. Then, the first signal via of the defective circuit is electrically connected to that repair via of the chip site having the first signal via that is connected to that repair via of the chip site having the second signal via and the second signal via of the defective circuit is electrically connected to that repair via of the chip site having the second signal via that is connected to that repair via of the chip site having the first signal via.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Wiren D. Becker, Dinesh Gupta, Sudipta K. Ray, Robert A. Rita, Herbert I. Stoller, Kathleen M. Wiley
  • Publication number: 20030136582
    Abstract: A substrate board structure having a core layer, a metallic layer and a connecting metallic layer. The core layer has a first surface and a second surface. The metallic layer includes a contact pad and a circuit line. The contact pad and the circuit line are separately lain on the first surface of the core layer. The connecting metallic layer is formed on the second surface of the core layer. The connecting metallic layer is electrically connected to both the contact pad and the circuit line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Sheng-Tsung Liu
  • Publication number: 20030136583
    Abstract: Specific apparatus and associated methods are described for use in establishing the positions of locating field detectors and for path mapping within a region for the purpose of tracking and/or guiding the movement of an underground boring tool. In one aspect, an improvement is provided forming part of an arrangement for tracking the position and/or guiding the boring tool using an electromagnetic locating signal which is transmitted from the boring tool as the boring tool moves through the ground. At least two detectors are located at fixed positions within the region, each being operable in a transmit mode and in a receive mode such that each one of the detectors in the transmit mode is able to transmit a relative locating signal to the other detector for use in determining the relative position of one detector in relation to the other and such that both detectors receive the electromagnetic locating signal in the receive mode for use in determining the position of the boring tool within the region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Guenter W. Brune, Peter H. Hambling, John E. Mercer, Lloyd A. Moore, Shiu S. Ng, Rudolf Zeller
  • Publication number: 20030136584
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for removing fluids, particularly entrained and/or adherent fluids, from drill cuttings generated during the well drilling process. A generally cylindrical wire-wrapped screen having a bore therethrough rotates about its longitudinal axis. Suction pressure is applied through the inner bore of the cylindrical wire-wrapped screen. As fluid-laden drill cuttings are deposited on the outer surface of the cylindrical wire-wrapped screen, fluids are drawn off of the cuttings and evacuated from the inner bore of the cylindrical wire-wrapped screen. Solid components of the cuttings remain on the outer surface of the cylindrical wire-wrapped screen and eventually roll off the screen. A scraping member is provided to agitate cuttings deposited on the outer surface of the cylindrical wire-wrapped screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Owen Thomas Risher, Nolan Joseph Fitch, Michael David Billeaud, David Jon Tilley, Ronald Charles Landry
  • Publication number: 20030136585
    Abstract: This invention aims to provide a gas-hydrate extracting device and method whereby a high-performance jet fluid is injected from a nozzle at the tip of an extraction pipe inserted into a gas-hydrate stratum, and whereby said jet fluid breaks said stratum so as to form a gas-hydrate mixed fluid that is transferred to surface of the earth, and whereby the void resulting from the removal of said gas hydrate is filled with the components of said high-performance jet fluid and a void-refilling fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: TOBISHIMA CORPORATION & FUJI RESEARCH INSTITUTE CORP.
    Inventors: Katsuya Matsuo, Sosuke Kurosaka, Yutaka Yanagimori, Shuntaro Asano, Junji Shinoda
  • Publication number: 20030136586
    Abstract: An apparatus having a housing (5) that shields a front of a percussion drive (1) against the environment, and into which a drive driven tool (3) projects. An exchangeable outer seal (10) is disposed at the housing opening (6c) for the tool (3), surrounds the tool transversely to its longitudinal axis (3a) with spacing, and is moveable in this transverse direction. An inner seal (11) is disposed behind the outer seal (10), and rests elastically against the tool (3) outside of its tool guide (2). The inner seal (11) is exchangeably secured to an elastic extension (12) of the tool guide (2) that surrounds the percussive tool (3) in the region of the inner seal (11) with a spacing larger than the largest transverse displacement of the tool (3). The extension (12) is an independent, elastic support that forms a detachable connection with the tool guide (2) at one end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Hans-Jurgen Schneider, Thomas Deimel, Christian Dorsch, Markus Mellwig, Torsten Ahr
  • Publication number: 20030136587
    Abstract: The shaped element has at least one stirring and entrainment zone in which the outside surface of the shaped element has recessed portions and projecting portions configured substantially in the form of helices about the axis of rotation of the drillrod, said portions being wound in a direction such as to encourage the flow of a drilling fluid in the upward direction in an annular space between the drillrod and the wall of a borehole under the effect of the drillrod rotating. The angle of inclination of the helices in which the recessed portions and the projecting portions of the shaped element are configured increases in the flow direction of the drilling fluid in the annular space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: S.M.F. INTERNATIONAL
    Inventor: Jean Gilbert Boulet
  • Publication number: 20030136588
    Abstract: A roller cone drill bit having selected left hand walk is disclosed. The bit includes a bit body adapted to couple to a drill string, and a plurality of legs depending from the bit body. Each leg has a roller cone rotatably mounted thereon. Each cone includes a plurality of cutting elements thereon. At least one cone has a nose point of its profile displaced radially inward with respect to a nose point of the profile of the other cones. A roller cone drill bit having selected right hand walk is also disclosed. The bit include a bit body adapted to couple to a drill string, and a plurality of legs depending from the bit body. Each leg has a roller cone rotatably mounted thereon, each cone including a plurality of cutting elements thereon defining a profile. At least one cone has a nose point of the profile displaced radially outward with respect to a nose point of the profile of the other cones.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: David Truax, Douglas Rock, Graham Mensa-Wilmot
  • Publication number: 20030136589
    Abstract: A conveyor belt scale system for increasing the weight measurement accuracy of a conveyor belt scale. The conveyor belt scale system includes a conveyor having a support frame and a belt, a first load cell positioned within the conveyor for measuring the belt after receiving a load of material (full weight), a second load cell positioned within the conveyor for measuring the belt prior to receiving a load of material (empty weight), a velocity sensor within the conveyor for measuring the velocity of the belt, and a control unit in communication with the sensors. The control unit measures the empty weight and the full weight of the belt upon a plurality of locations upon the belt. The control unit corresponds the empty weight with the full weight of each of the measured locations to calculate the material net weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: James P. Dietrich
  • Publication number: 20030136590
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system with a gravimetric weighing instrument, a network interface, a network, and a computer, wherein the gravimetric weighing instrument can be connected via the network interface to the network. Executable on the computer is a browser application, and the network interface makes available a command application which, via the browser application, causes the representation on the computer of an input mask. Via the input mask on the computer, a program for automatic use of the gravimetric weighing instrument can be defined, the program being executable by the gravimetric weighing instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Mettler-Toledo GmbH
    Inventor: Siegfried Gluvakov
  • Publication number: 20030136591
    Abstract: A hydraulically driven traveling vehicle comprising a pair of right and left driving axles (driving sprockets) differentially connected to each other by a differential mechanism, the input section of the differential mechanism having the output rotation of traveling HST 110 (110) transmitted thereto, both driving sprockets having mutually opposite two-flow output rotations separately transmitted thereto from a steering HST (120), thereby effecting traveling driving and turning, electromagnetic solenoids (61a, 61b, 62a, 62b) serving as output regulating means for the traveling HST and the steering HST being provided so that the manipulated variables and directions of a speed change lever and a steering operation tool are converted into electric signals, on the basis of which electric signals the output current values of the electromagnetic solenoids are controlled, causing the respective output rotary speeds of the HSTs to correspond to the output current values, wherein the respective output current values of
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Yuji Kitasaka, Takeshi Hasebe, Katsunori Katou, Toshiyuki Miwa
  • Publication number: 20030136592
    Abstract: The invention relates to a crawler running gear, particularly for a construction machine. A mid-section and two crawler supports with in each case a crawler chain are provided. The crawler supports are located along a longitudinal direction on both longitudinal sides of the mid-section and in each case detachably fixed to at least two crossbeams. The crossbeams are displaceably mounted in a transverse direction on the mid-section. For simplifying installation, the crossbeams have on their end directed towards the crawler support an at least zonally conically tapering mounting journal and on the crawler supports are provided mounting holes, which are constructed so as to correspond to the mounting journals of the crossbeams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Werner Harthauser
  • Publication number: 20030136593
    Abstract: A mechanism that interconnects the service brakes of a hydrostatically driven tractor with the hydrostatic pump to more effectively slow or stop the tractor, particularly when towing a trailer, is disclosed. The service brakes are connected to a control servo on the hydrostatic pump such that actuation of the service brakes will destroke the pump, eliminating or reducing the torque of the pump as a factor to be overcome in slowing or stopping movement of the tractor. Both mechanical and electronic versions of the mechanism are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Zoran Vuksa, Vladimir M. Kowalvk
  • Publication number: 20030136594
    Abstract: A rotational speed sensor and a first F/V converter cooperatively obtain a voltage signal representing a rotational speed of an engine. A second F/V converter obtains a voltage signal representing a rotational speed of a generator-motor device. A rotational speed difference detector produces a difference between two voltage signals. When the difference exceeds a predetermined value, a voltage comparator produces a high-level signal to activate a warning circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Shin Kusase
  • Publication number: 20030136595
    Abstract: A power assisted cargo area extender is provided that consists of a top panel, a bottom panel, and two side panels. The bottom panel is part of or is attached to the tailgate of a truck or SUV and has channels in which the side panels slide. Once the tailgate is lowered, the top panel, which is adjacent to the bottom panel and connected to the bottom panel with hinges, is rotated upward and outward around the,hinges under control of a motorized actuator. In addition or separately, the side panels are extended and locked into an open position under control of a motorized actuator, and/or the top panel is closed to form a temporary tailgate. The top panel is latched to the side panels and the cargo area extender is fully deployed. These operations may be performed manually or via powered actuators or motors. The top panel may be equipped with an extension to increase the height of or modify the contour of the temporary tailgate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Lawrence O. Lacy
  • Publication number: 20030136596
    Abstract: A cruise control system is adapted to a vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine and a manual transmission which are disengageably connected through a clutch. The cruise control system is arranged to calculate a first vehicle operation indicative quantity based on an engine speed detected by an engine speed sensor, to calculate a second vehicle operation indicative quantity based on a wheel speed detected by a wheel speed sensor, to determine whether a deviation between the first vehicle operation indicative quantity and the second vehicle operation indicative quantity is greater than a predetermined value, and to cancel the cruise control when the deviation is greater than the predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: NISSAN MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Masahiro Iriyama
  • Publication number: 20030136597
    Abstract: This invention is a method and system to disconnect drive wheels from the powertrain of any electric powered vehicle. A vehicle controller monitors input from, for example, an inertia switch and electric motor generator conditions and can disconnect the output shaft from the drive wheels in predetermined vehicle conditions such as during a rear-end collision, or abnormal electric motor conditions such as over-torque, over-temperature, or over-current. The invention can be configured to monitor and respond to driver demand for four-wheel drive, two-wheel drive, and neutral tow. The disconnect device can comprise a disconnect actuator and joint attached to an axle disconnect. The axle disconnect can be electric or vacuum powered and positioned as a center disconnect or a wheel-end disconnect. The invention can be configured for conventional or limited slip axles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Abbas Raftari, Curtis Lee Tyson, John O'Rear, Joanne Theresa Woestman, Vijay K. Garg
  • Publication number: 20030136598
    Abstract: An automotive seat safety mechanism includes a seat back and a webbing arranged between the seat back and a vehicle roof. A retractor urges the webbing in a winding direction while simultaneously permitting the webbing to be drawn out in an unwinding direction when in a normal state and prevents the webbing from being drawn out when acceleration of the vehicle becomes greater than a predetermined value. A bypassing mechanism is arranged above the seat back. A pretensioner is included in the retractor. The retractor is arranged above and rearward from the seat back. The webbing extends between an upper position of the seat back and the retractor bypassing the bypassing mechanism. The webbing is disengaged from the bypassing mechanism when forward acceleration becomes greater than a predetermined value. The pretensioner is activated to quickly draw in the webbing in response to the forward acceleration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Koji Korechika
    Inventors: Koji Korechika, Noriko Korechika
  • Publication number: 20030136599
    Abstract: A restraining device for protecting the driver of a vehicle. The restraining system has at least one safety rollover bar laterally mounted next to the seat of the driver. The safety rollover bar can be swiveled from an vertical release position into a horizontal restraining position by a shaft extending transversely in relation to the longitudinal expanse of the vehicle. The shaft is driven by an electric motor via a transmission.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Hans Sauermann
  • Publication number: 20030136600
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for obtaining and conveying information about occupancy of a passenger compartment of a vehicle including a health state determining mechanism for determining the occupant's health state, and a communications mechanism coupled to the health state determining mechanism for establishing a communications channel between the vehicle and a remote facility to enable the occupant's health state to be transmitted to the remote facility. The determining mechanism may include a heartbeat sensor, a sensor for detecting motion of the occupants such as a micropower impulse radar sensor and/or an arrangement for detecting changes in the weight distribution of the occupants, a motion sensor for determining whether the occupants are breathing, a chemical sensor for analyzing the amount of carbon dioxide in the passenger compartment or around the occupants and/or a chemical sensor for detecting the presence of blood in the passenger compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: David S. Breed, Wilbur E. DuVall, Wendell C. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20030136601
    Abstract: An impact absorbing structure for a vehicle body is provided with a pair of front side members extending in a longitudinal direction of a vehicle body, at vicinities of both ends of the vehicle body in a widthwise direction of the vehicle body, an engine room defined between the pair of front side members to allow an engine unit to be located therein, and a pair of engine attaching portions each of which is disposed on corresponding one of the pair of front side members, at an area facing the engine room. Each of the pair of engine attaching portions includes an engine mount to which the engine unit is connected, an engine mount bracket connected to the engine mount, and an engine mount bracket support intervened between the engine mount bracket and corresponding one of the pair of front side members to support the engine mount bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiromitsu Gotou
  • Publication number: 20030136602
    Abstract: A body frame is provided for a riding tractor. An axis of an engine mounted on the body frame is oriented lengthwise along the tractor and a flywheel is provided on the axis of the engine. The body frame comprises a pair of left and right side members extending lengthwise along the tractor, cross members disposed in front and rear of the engine, respectively, so as to connect the left and right side members to each other, and reinforcing members provided on inside portions of the respective side members. The reinforcing members are disposed laterally inward from the lateral outermost end of the flywheel in a space between the engine and each of the side members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Toshio Tsuda
  • Publication number: 20030136603
    Abstract: Automobiles today are provided with one right-foot accelerator located near and in front of the right foot of the driver, and a brake located left of the accelerator. Both, the accelerator and the brake are located such that they can only be comfortably used by the right foot. My invention, the ‘Parghi Ergomobile’ now provides for automobiles with two accelerators, the right-foot one that is located such that it is in front of and near the right foot and the left-foot one that is located such that it is in front of and near the left foot with one brake pedal located in the center. When the driver is tired of accelerating with the right foot, he/she can start accelerating with the left one and vice versa. Or he/she can accelerate with both the feet if they chose so. Using both legs or switching legs while driving will reduce injuries caused by repetitive motion on the right leg.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Kaumil H. Parghi
  • Publication number: 20030136604
    Abstract: An electric power steering apparatus is disclosed. The apparatus features a first shaft and a second shaft connected by an elastic member. A first detecting member is coupled to the second shaft, and made of magnetic material with a plurality of radial notched portions defining a number of slots. A pair of second detecting members are coupled to the first shaft and positioned on both sides of the first detecting member, and made of conductive and non-magnetic material with a plurality of radial notched portions defining a like number of slots. A pair of detecting coils are axially positioned on both sides of a set of the first and second detecting members. A housing accommodates the first and second detecting members, the detecting coils, and holds yokes in a fixed position. The largest outer diameter of the first shaft is smaller than each of the inner diameters of the first detecting member, the second detecting member and the yokes, thereby improving the assembling of the electric power steering apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Applicant: UNISIA JKC STEERING SYSTEMS CO, LTD.
    Inventors: Kohei Yamanaka, Mamoru Ichikawa
  • Publication number: 20030136605
    Abstract: An improved mounting structure for mounting a speaker onto a cabinet comprising: a base seat with a sound output hole on its surface, and with an annular inner partitioning wall therein having spaced inner protruding engaging flanges at the rim at the opening of the base seat; a speaker having a mounting ring on a frame thereof for assembling with the base seat, the ring has spaced outer protruding engaging flanges thereon; and a foam body provided on the inner wall of the frame of the speaker, the foam body is abutted against the inner partitioning wall of the base seat in an airtight mode; the base seat can be embedded in various cabinets of different modeling, the outer protruding engaging flanges on the frame of the speaker are rotated to engage with the inner protruding engaging flanges, the inner partitioning wall of the base seat abuts tightly against the foam body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Po-An Chuang
  • Publication number: 20030136606
    Abstract: An acoustic shielding article which includes a shaped thermoplastic element that has a metal inlay element fixedly attached thereto, is described. More particularly, the acoustic shielding article (1) includes: (a) a shaped thermoplastic element (3) having a surface (11) that faces a source of sound (14); and (b) a metal inlay element (2) having substantially opposed first (17) and second (20) surfaces, at least one of which is fixedly joined to the shaped thermoplastic element. The shaped thermoplastic element is formed by means of molding thermoplastic material onto at least one of the first and second surfaces of the metal inlay element, thereby fixedly joining the metal inlay element to the shaped thermoplastic element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2003
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Ulrich Grosser, Jurgen Knaup