Patents Issued in November 18, 2003
  • Patent number: 6647648
    Abstract: A bucket tooth capable of preventing a bolt from being loosened during operation is provided. In order to allow the bucket tooth to generate a resilient return force after attachment, a warp is caused by resilient deformation so that a face on the bucket lip side becomes a concave face. In addition, a spot facing portion is formed around a bolt hole into which a fastening bolt is inserted, on the side facing the bucket lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaharu Amano, Kazuhide Okawa
  • Patent number: 6647649
    Abstract: A microparticle taggant having two or more distinguishable marker layers corresponding to a predetermined numeric code. The plurality of particles comprises a plurality of microparticle sets of at least one microparticle, each microparticle set is characterized by a specific marker layer combination different from each other microparticle set, and the combination of microparticle sets employed in said taggant collectively forms the numeric code. Each specific marker layer combination may employ two or more layers. The microparticle sets employed in the taggant may include at least one datum marker layer coded to include place information and at least two value marker layers coded to specify a value within the place, the datum marker layer(s) being readily distinguishable from the value marker layers and functioning to identify an orientation of the value marker layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Tracking Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel R. Hunt, Charles S. Hanson
  • Patent number: 6647650
    Abstract: Promotional apparatus are provided that are configured to demonstrate to patients and others how one or more pharmaceutical products work within the human body (or within other living beings). The promotional apparatus includes a base and a display panel that is movably secured to the base for rotational movement about an axis between a substantially vertical display position and a substantially vertical non-display position. The display panel includes first and second sealed chambers in adjacent relationship. Each chamber includes a respective transparent front wall and a rear wall spaced apart from the front wall. The first sealed chamber is substantially filled with a first translucent fluid and the second sealed chamber is substantially filled with a second translucent fluid. A first set of objects is disposed within the first sealed chamber and are configured to ascend through the translucent fluid (i.e., each object is buoyant) when the display panel is rotated to a display position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Adstracts, Inc.
    Inventors: Brenda S. Jones, Jason S. Holland
  • Patent number: 6647651
    Abstract: An animation device is provided in which a series of pictures are arranged on a translucent shell, which is mounted upon an inner frame. A periodic light emitter is mounted on the inner frame. A driver, such as an electric motor, moves the translucent shell relative to the inner frame to sequentially pass the series of pictures over the periodic light emitter, thus creating an animation effect for a viewer. The series of pictures is removable to permit replacement with an alternate series of pictures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: David J. Cutright
  • Patent number: 6647652
    Abstract: An apparatus for display of information in a work environment is disclosed. The apparatus includes a display board having a substantially solid core and defining a first side having a first surface and a second side opposite of the first side having a second surface. A first surface treatment may include a reusable adhesive and a clear film cover over the reusable adhesive. The display board may have a generally rectangular shape and may include a plurality of corner members and a mounting structure. A mounting structure for at least one display board is also disclosed. The mounting structure may include a pivotal interface adapted to engage a mounting interface of the display board so that the display board is removably pivotally mounted within the mounting structure. An easel for use with a first display board is further disclosed. The easel may include a base, a frame coupled to the base, a storage area formed by the frame, and a panel coupled to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Anthony Seiber, Scott Michael Miller, Alan Fredrick Mauer, Peter Scott Macdonald, Robert Peter Arko, Alan Michael Vale, Steven Ryutaro Takayama
  • Patent number: 6647653
    Abstract: A muzzleloading firearm with a barrel having a rearward end with a breech plug fastened to the rearward end of the barrel, a nipple that extends rearwardly from the breech plug, a receiver positioned rearward of the barrel and having an opening for receiving a firing element, and having an elongated bore extending through from a forward end to a rearward end, the rearward end receives the percussion element and the forward end receives the nipple such that a forward end of the percussion element is in alignment with the nipple.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: BBSCO Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Eric T. Hengstenberg
  • Patent number: 6647654
    Abstract: A removable cylinder for a revolver according to the present invention includes a plurality of cartridge chambers, each appropriately sized to receive a blank cartridge therein. The cartridge chambers are sealed at their distal end to prevent debris from a fired blank cartridge from entering the revolver barrel. The cylinder may further include passages (e.g., vent ports or grooves) in communication with the cartridge chambers to vent exhaust gases released from the blank cartridges in response to revolver actuation. The revolver may further include a laser transmitter assembly to project a laser beam toward a target in response to revolver actuation to simulate firearm operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Beamhit, LLC
    Inventors: Mike Iten, Chris Harrison, Stephen P. Rosa, Motti Shechter
  • Patent number: 6647655
    Abstract: A firearm safety lock for an automatic pistol such as the Model 1911 firearm is disclosed. The safety lock includes a means of arresting the operation of the main trigger or hammer spring in the pistol grip of the firearm to prevent movement of the hammer, thereby locking the gun in a safe condition. A means and a method is disclosed for locking a pistol in a safe condition by arresting the movement of the hammer spring buffer through insertion of a locking shaft through the pistol grip housing which can be keyed to prevent unauthorized removal of the locking shaft. The disclosed invention may be used on newly manufactured firearms or provides a method to easily convert an existing firearm without permanent modification or damage to the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Alfred W. Salvitti
  • Patent number: 6647656
    Abstract: A gun holding apparatus consisting of an elongated adjustable support strap having a slidable pad thereon, whereby the slidable support strap is looped in an over and under fashion through a plurality of slit openings in each of two end sections of the slidable pad enabling attachment to the strap of a variety of firearms, including conventional rifles, shotguns and muzzleloaders. A gun holding apparatus is provided for safety in holding rifles, shotguns and muzzleloaders in a carrying position, resting position, and at the same time, making for an easy and quick shift of a firearm from the resting position to a ready position for shooting without any adjustment to the gun holding apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Samuel A Mazzagetti
  • Patent number: 6647657
    Abstract: A decoy for attracting waterfowl having an upper body portion, a non-parallely oriented keel and an anchor. The decoy body is non-parallely connected to a keel by an attachment means. This attachment means may be fixed or adjustable. This non-parallel orientation between the keel and the upper body allows the decoy to maintain a desired orientation within a body of water when acted upon by a wind or water current. An anchor connected to the combination of the decoy and the keel provides a means for maintaining the decoy in a generally fixed location. This combination of features allows the orientation of a group of decoys to be varied so as to provide a desired natural looking presentation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Matthew C. Igo
  • Patent number: 6647658
    Abstract: A novel “Y” shaped fishing rod support for a novel semi-automatic fishing is comprised of, including but not limited to, an anchoring pole, a straight means of partially cut-out metal pipe consisting the upper part of the fishing rod support, a fishing rod holder guide, a fishing rod holder pivotally engaged in between the “Y” shaped cleavage that is formed between the upper part of the fishing rod support and the fishing rod holder guide, a spring which connects the fishing rod holder and the vertical upper part of the fishing rod support, and an electric trigger operated by a fisherman. The lower part of the straightening means is constructed of a narrow metal pipe. The upper part of the straightening means is constructed of a metal pipe, which is larger in diameter than the metal pipe consisting the lower part of the straightening means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Yong Kil Park
  • Patent number: 6647659
    Abstract: A fishing lure has a hollow body that contains a battery and a selected recipient device (eg. a light emitting device, horn, vibrator motor). A switch interrupts a circuit to deactivate the light emitting device (or other recipient device) when the lure body is moved from a generally horizontal, “swimming” position to a more inclined position. The apparatus has a rechargeable battery that can be charged by connecting to hook eyelets on the lure body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Trinity Takle Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan King, Mark Thornton
  • Patent number: 6647660
    Abstract: A fishing lure is particularly constructed to effect a side-to-side swimming action and a life-like appearance. The lure is jointed at its midsection to enhance the life-like swimming action. The tail of the lure is formed using a plurality of hair-like nylon strands that are bundled at one end and shaped as desired to simulate a life-like fish tail. The bundled end is inserted into a slot in the tail section of the lure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: C. Baxter Kruger
  • Patent number: 6647661
    Abstract: The method and the system are applicable in household activities, healthcare, industry, agriculture, forestry, etc. for exterminating pests, weeds and pathogens. The system performing the method comprises a source of lethal impact which is a microwave generator (1) with a microwave guiding element (2) directed so as to face an antenna (3). The microwave generator (1) is placed by means of three supports (4) in the focus area of the antenna (3). The control input of the microwave generator (1) is connected to the output of a control unit (5) whose power supply input is connected to a power unit (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Grigor Rangelov Grigorov
  • Patent number: 6647662
    Abstract: The invention relates to a reflective plant treatment material comprising at least one pigment and having high reflectance of UV (280-400 nm), visible (400-700 nm) and near infrared (700-800 nm) radiation, but allowing at least part transmission of radiation of 800-2500 nm, and to use of the material and method of treating plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Jonathan Dallas Toye
  • Patent number: 6647663
    Abstract: A sleeve comprising a lower portion preferably having a base portion and a skirt portion for packaging a floral grouping or plant. The sleeve may have a protective upper portion which can be detached from the lower portion of the sleeve once the protective function of the upper portion has been completed. The sleeve has a plurality of horizontally and diagonally positioned expansion elements for allowing expansion of the base portion and/or skirt portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Southpac Trust International, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Patent number: 6647664
    Abstract: A control panel, which might be enclosed within an openable housing, can be movably supported on a pivotable support structure. The support structure which incorporates one or more pivot points facilitates movement of the control panel from a normal operational position to a displaced maintenance/service position the control panel can be moved both arcuately and linearly on the support element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Metropolitan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Kochan, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6647665
    Abstract: A workpiece handling system with dual load locks, a transport chamber and a process chamber. Workpieces may be retrieved from one load lock for processing at vacuum pressure, while workpieces are unloaded from the other load lock at the pressure of the surrounding environment. The transport chamber has a transport robot with two arms. Processed workpieces and new workpieces may be exchanged by a simple under/over motion of the two robot arms. The transport robot rotates about a central shaft to align with the load locks or the process chamber. The robot may also be raised or lowered to align the arms with the desired location to which workpieces are deposited or from which workpieces are retrieved. The two load locks may be positioned one above the other such that a simple vertical motion of the robot can be used to select between the two load locks. The two load locks and transport robot allow almost continuous processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Mattson Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Farzad Tabrizi, Barry Kitazumi, David A. Barker, David A. Setton, Leszek Niewmierzycki, Michael J. Kuhlman
  • Patent number: 6647666
    Abstract: A door weather strip, which is of annular form as a whole, includes a base section and a hollow sealing section as its basic constituent elements. The portion of the door weather strip corresponding to the corner part of the upper portion on the center pillar side of the front door provides a molded section, and any other section provides a continuously formed extrusion section. On the portion other than the lower side portion in the peripheral portion of the opening section for the front door of a vehicle body, the ridge portion as along the peripheral portion thereof is provided. In the closed state of the front door, the sealing section is elastically deformed so as to be pressed and extended in opposite directions away from the top portion of the ridge portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsunori Kawai, Hisao Hanabusa, Takao Nakajima, Harumi Kogiso
  • Patent number: 6647667
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a trim or a seal member such as an opening trim weather strip. The trim or a trim body in the seal member has a holding lip portion and modified holding lip portions. And the holding lip portion and modified holding lip portions have head portions. The head portions are made to bulge out toward a bottom wall portion at the tip ends of modified holding lip portions of the trim or the trim body of trim portion. The modified holding lip portions are formed so that projecting lengths of the head portions from the end surfaces of tip end portions of the modified holding lip portions, and the thicknesses of the head portions increase in inverse proportion to lip projecting lengths of the modified holding lip portions from an inner surface of an interior side wall portion. Alternatively, a slope inclined with respect to an extension plane of an opening-portion-side surface of a base end portion is formed at tip ends of the modified holding lip portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kiminori Mine, Kazuo Ogawa, Keizo Hayashi
  • Patent number: 6647668
    Abstract: An inflatable structure, such as a fabric confining a gas, can be regulated as to its shape by the provision of auxiliary tubes, integral or adjacent to the fabric which can be separately pressurized. The separate pressurization will create local tensile forces to change the shape of the structure. Alternatively, a mechanical system, such as tensioned cables can be used to control the shape of the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: ILC Dover, Inc.
    Inventors: Donald R. Cohee, Robert L. Pauly, Craig R. Scheir, David P. Cadogan
  • Patent number: 6647669
    Abstract: The invention relates to a supporting frame with assemblage nodes and braces, which is characterized in that the joint between the assemblage nodes (3) and the end parts (27) of the braces (5) comprises a pin joint, that at least one of the elements (braces (5)) of the pin joint (11) which can be plugged into each other has at least one magnet (29), and that at least a partial area of the corresponding counter-part (pin (13)) is ferromagnetic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Burkhardt Leitner
  • Patent number: 6647670
    Abstract: An automatic down spout extension system including an extension spout pivotally attached to the lower end of a down spout, and a ballast container attached to the distal end of the extension spout. An insert including a number of side openings is attached at the upper end of the down spout, and a hose extends from the bottom of the insert to the ballast container. Rainwater from the rain gutter flows down the down spout and a portion of the water flows through the hose and fills the ballast container at the end of the extension spout. The weight of the water in the ballast container causes the extension spout to move to an extended working position. A spring interconnecting the extension spout and the down spout biases the extension spout in an upright storage position. A drain opening in the ballast container allows water to run out, and when the rain stops and the container empties, the spring pulls the extension spout to an upright storage position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Dran
  • Patent number: 6647671
    Abstract: A snow guard assembly adapted to be attached to a metal roof seam is provided, having a mounting assembly for having increased gripping efficiency. The mounting assembly includes a mounting block having a seam-receiving groove, and at least one channel formed on an internal side of the seam-receiving groove. A lever member disposed within each channel is pivotally secured at one end by a pivot member. A coupling element passes through a side of the mounting block proximate the other end of the lever member. When the coupling element contacts the lever member, the lever member moves from the channel to a position within the seam-receiving groove. The metal roof seam housed in the seam-receiving groove is deformed under force provided by the mechanical advantage of the lever to form a gripping area that secures the mounting assembly to the metal roof seam and prevents relative movement therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: F. William Alley
  • Patent number: 6647672
    Abstract: Domed building structures are disclosed comprising a series of concentric rings or frustums, each comprising a plurality of panels (4, 5, 6, 8, 30, 32A, 32B, 32C) connected end to end around the ring. Some rings comprise only trapezoidal panels (4) whilst others comprise combinations of trapezoidal (6, 30) and triangular (8, 32A, 32B, 32C) panels. Some rings or frustums may incorporate bracing comprising ties (52, 54) disposed in the interior of the structure and connected with junctions between panels (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Brian Valentine Knight
  • Patent number: 6647673
    Abstract: A standardized arched jamb assembly includes an arched jamb member and a pair of opposite upright jamb members with angled cuts made at opposite ends of the arched jamb member and upper end portions of the upright jamb members where the arched jamb member meets and interfaces with the upright jamb members to form the arched jamb assembly. The angled cuts are two-sided and have substantially the same standard angular configurations, irrespective of variations in the radii of curvature of upper arched jamb members used with upright jamb members to provide wall openings of different widths. The two-sided angled cuts are preferably standard right-angled notches and end cuts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Richard J. Smerud
  • Patent number: 6647674
    Abstract: An erection anchor having a forged unitary body that includes a substantially cylindrical shank with one end embedable in a concrete panel and an opposite end extending into a recess in an end of the concrete panel. The forged unitary body also has a substantially cylindrical foot integrally formed with the one end of the shank and a shackle-engageable, planar head integrally formed with the opposite end of the shank. The planar head has first and second opposed substantially planar surfaces and a boss integrally formed with the planar head and extending outward from the first planar surface. The boss provides bearing surfaces that interlock the erection anchor with the concrete panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Dayton Superior Corporation
    Inventors: Harry B. Lancelot, III, Sidney E. Francies, III
  • Patent number: 6647675
    Abstract: A hip and ridge attachment device utilized in the roofing industry for the construction of roofs. Hip and ridge attachment devices are secured onto a rooftop once the installation of roofing felt is complete, but before the completion of roof tile installation. After the installation of the instant invention, tiles are secured thereon with an adhesive. The instant invention comprises sheet metal, formed into a V-form with walls extending a predetermined length from both sides of the V-form. Said walls are outwardly bent near their distal ends to lay flush against a roof surface. Optionally, embossings on the V-form increase the effective contact area for an adhesive when applied thereon. Additionally, said invention may have louvers for ventilation means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Tom Francisco Castellanos
  • Patent number: 6647676
    Abstract: In a roof window with a frame structure and an openable, pane supporting sash structure, the top, bottom and side members (1-8) of the frame and sash structures are for the major part made as wood profiles, which on the outwards facing sides are covered by covering members of weather-shielding material connected with the wood profiles by means of engagement and securing means. The covering members (11, 12, 15, 17, 20, 21, 32) consist of an upper and a lower cap member (20, 21) on the frame and sash side members (3, 4, 7, 8) designed as flat, trough-shaped profiles with identical, substantially U-shaped profile cross section comprising an exterior wall (20a, 21a) and two low side walls (20w, 21b-c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: VKR Holding A/S
    Inventors: Birgitte Hansen, Peter Forslund Nielsen, Kaj Nissen
  • Patent number: 6647677
    Abstract: A window assembly that includes an outer end inner frame assemblies. The outer frame assembly has two horizontal frame members and two vertical frame members. The inner frame assembly includes two horizontal inner members that are slidably mounted to the horizontal frame members. The inner frame assembly also includes two vertical inner members that are mountable on the vertical frame members with fastener members. The outer frame assembly and the vertical and horizontal inner members sandwich or entrap a garage panel with an aperture and a transparent panel to define a window. The outer frame assembly includes a longitudinally and peripherally extending rib member with longitudinal cut-outs. The horizontal inner frame members include longitudinal slots that receive the rib member. Fasteners are used to mount the two vertical inner members to the two vertical frame members keeping the garage panel and the transparent panel sandwiched in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Allen Berger, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6647678
    Abstract: A device for connecting a beam to pillars, or similar load-bearing structural elements, for constructing buildings, particularly multi-story buildings, by way of prefabricated concrete components. The device comprises a first connection for connecting the two end regions of the beam to the pillars and a second connection for connecting two intermediate regions of the longitudinal extension of the beam to the pillars. The first connection is constituted by connection elements of the interlocking type and the second connection comprises at least two rigid inclined ties, each of which connects an intermediate region of the beam to a region of the respective pillar which lies at a higher level than the region where the tie is coupled to the beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: Sergio Zambelli, Benito Zambelli
  • Patent number: 6647679
    Abstract: A stucco trim assembly for emplacement onto a corner defined by the juncture of a pair of walls, to permit a foam and/or a stucco material to be controllably applied and adjustably secured to the walls. The assembly comprises an elongated receiving trim member attachable to a corner of the pair of walls, and an elongated inserted frame clip. The clip is adjustably supported in the elongated receiving trim member a spaced distance from the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Michael Belleau
  • Patent number: 6647680
    Abstract: The invention relates to a bottom rail strip for bridging a joint between two floor coverings. The invention proposes that the bottom rail be designed with a hinge, by means of which one cover profile strip of the bottom rail can be laterally swivelled. The hinge makes it possible to adjust the bottom rail to floor coverings of varying height, and offset height differences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Proline Profil System GmbH
    Inventors: Aaron Daly, Guenther Seibold
  • Patent number: 6647681
    Abstract: The decorative border comprises an elongated strip of flexible material. An external reinforcing member engages the front face of the strip and elongated fastening members attach the reinforcing member and the strip to the corner of a wall. Pockets may be provided along the length of the strip and reinforcing slats placed therein. The border has two panels which are sewn together and can be reversed to create different decorative effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Jacquelyn J. Abbott
  • Patent number: 6647682
    Abstract: A means to engage two vertical pipes or tubes of unlike and increasing size that have been co-inserted such as with a roof or floor drain, in a manner that prevents the contained fluid from overspilling when the said pipes become full or when the fluid flows in a direction opposite from normal gravity flow, which is generally considered as flow from the smaller to the larger pipe. The means of engagement closes the void between the inside diameter larger pipe and outside diameter smaller pipe to withstand fluid pressure in a way that accounts for angular misalignment, pipe or tube eccentricity, manufacturing tolerance, as well as tube condition and debris attached to either pipe sidewall. More specifically, a roof drain system for existing roofs or new construction including a flanged outlet pipe for insertion into the roof drain pipe with the flange mounted on top of the roof. A water straining system is mounted on top of the flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Portals Plus, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard Bishop
  • Patent number: 6647683
    Abstract: In the drainage and sealing system, an external rain shield is designed as a separate flexible sealant strip (38,58,59), and an internal drain trench (44, 64) is provided on a separate drain element (40, 60) extending in parallel to and at a distance from the external sealant strip (38, 58, 59). The drain element (40) and the external sealant strip (38) comprise a flange portion (41, 38b) for releasable securing to a frame member of a panel in the panel system. The separate drain element (40, 60) can be designed as an internal cover strip where the drain trench (44, 64) is provided in an essentially U-shaped portion (43, 63), and where the drain element on the side facing away from the drain trench (44, 64) has a portion (42, 62) for reception of an internal sealant strip (45, 65).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: VKR Holding A/S
    Inventors: Morten Werner Thomsen, Hans Ove Pedersen, Lars Helmersen, Vagn Einfeldt Jensen, Aage Mathiassen Wind, Niels Birkedal Kristiansen
  • Patent number: 6647684
    Abstract: A tile and frame flooring system consisting of uniform frame elements joined together so as to create a support frame upon which a tile rests. The frame elements combine to form a lattice of support frames covering the surface to be tiled. The tiles are nestled into the frames to complete the flooring. The wood frame and tiles merge in appearance to form an aesthetically pleasing and continuous floor surface that is easy for the user to install.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: High Mountain Flooring, Inc.
    Inventor: Dayton C. Gank
  • Patent number: 6647685
    Abstract: A tool for the spacing of tiles during installation includes a central body with radially projecting prongs that are fitted between adjacent tiles to control the spacing thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Space-It-Rite
    Inventors: Joseph L. Annarella, Robert Grzybowski, John F. Dumelle
  • Patent number: 6647686
    Abstract: A system for constructing insulated concrete structures comprising panels molded from a closed cell foam plastic, with a facing material attached to the outside surface of panels adding substantial strength to panels during material handling and construction, providing a substrate for finish materials and adding UV resistance to panel surfaces. Panels are placed horizontally in an opposing and parallel spaced-apart relationship. Vertical studs are embedded in panels extending the full height of the panels, each stud has a flange and groove connected with a web. Spreaders slide vertically into the grooves of studs in opposing panels creating a form with a cavity between panels. Each spreader has opposing flanges connected by horizontal members, horizontal members having multiple formations, thus when spreaders are stacked the formations compliment each other allowing wall reinforcing to be locked in any preferred location. A chase way is provided in panels to accommodate electrical wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: Daniel D. Dunn, David C. Dunn, Daniel V. Sorensen
  • Patent number: 6647687
    Abstract: Siding is provided for protective use on a structure. The siding simulates log construction and includes one or more panels which each include a top section, mounting section, flat section, female locking flange section, bowed section and male locking flange section. Each panel may be textured to simulate real logs. A film can be adhesively attached to the surface of the panels to simulate wood grain, as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Poly-Foam International Incorporated
    Inventor: Michael J. Kern
  • Patent number: 6647688
    Abstract: A thermoset fluorescent pigmentary vinyl is provided which is vinyl siding and trim components having luminescent characteristics. A thermoset fluorescent pigment which is charged by sunlight during the daytime hours and emits light during the nighttime hours.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: Brenda S. Gaitan, Kevin L. Ballard
  • Patent number: 6647689
    Abstract: A panel, particularly a floor-covering panel, is provided that has separate horizontal and vertical locking structures. The panel has a first side edge and a second side edge. The first side edge has a groove and a locking lip, and the second side edge has a tongue and a locking tongue. The first side edge of one panel interlocks with the second side edge of another panel without adhesives or fasteners such that the tongue and groove form a joint that provides a vertical interconnection lock and the locking lip and locking tongue form a joint that provides a horizontal interconnection lock. Advantageously, one or more first side edge surfaces opposite surfaces of the second edge locking tongue have a space between them. The separate horizontal and vertical locking structures reduces, if not prevents, damage to the locking structures during joining of panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: E.F.P. Floor Products GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Pletzer, Jürgen Weber, Johann Heitzinger
  • Patent number: 6647690
    Abstract: Flooring material including floor boards (1) with an essentially square, rectangular or rhomboidal shape. The floor boards (1) are provided with edges (2), a horizontal lower side (5) and a horizontal decorative upper surface (3). The floor boards (1) are provided with lower joining lips (10) at two adjacent edges (2) while the two remaining edges (2) are provided with upper joining lips (20). The lower joining lips (10) are provided essentially vertical lower lip surfaces 911) arranged parallel to the closest edge (2). The lower lip surfaces (11) are intended to interact with mainly vertical upper lip surfaces (21) arranged on the upper joining lips (20). Two joined adjacent floor boards (1) are hereby locked together in a horizontal direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Pergo (Europe) AB
    Inventor: Goran Martensson
  • Patent number: 6647691
    Abstract: A track arrangement for supporting wall studs is provided. The track arrangement includes a central longitudinal extension, first and second sidewalls and a first stud clip arrangement comprising a pair of stud clips. In a preferred embodiment, each clip comprises a portion of the sidewall bent inwardly, to form a cam surface and a stud ridge receiver. During use, the stud is forced toward the cam surface, bending the clip until a portion of the stud, specifically a stud ridge, is received in the stud ridge receiver. This will secure the stud in place, against undesired movement relative to the track. Wall assemblies are provided which preferably involve one such track arrangement positioned on the floor as a floor track, and one on the ceiling, as a ceiling track, with a stud extending therebetween. The wall framework assembly can be assembled as a slip track, or as a non-slip track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventors: Duane William Becker, Brian Duane Becker
  • Patent number: 6647692
    Abstract: The invention relates to a support and a connecting profile made of plastic, synthetic resin, phenol and/or light metal for a self-regulating skeleton, in particular for halls constructed from light materials and large tent constructions, characterized in that the profile body (5) is provided with reinforcements (4,8) on or introduced in certain areas and which are made of fiber composite materials, e.g. glass, carbon or aramide fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Thuringer Bauholding GmbH
    Inventor: Heinz Röder
  • Patent number: 6647693
    Abstract: A construction assembly in which a plurality of interconnected three-dimensional elements each has at least one wall and the elements are connected by loops or tongues of material of one element extending into windows of another element and held in place by pins of sheet material engaging through the loops and bearing upon the walls formed with the window from the side opposite that through which the loop was inserted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Inventor: Howard M. Bromberg
  • Patent number: 6647694
    Abstract: This invention provides a panel body that can be easily assembled by using helical wire members having an excellent working factor. The invention provides also a panel body using helical wire members having excellent impact resistance. Wire members having a predetermined outer diameter are wound in a predetermined lead and pitch to provide a large number of helical wire members in such a fashion that a diameter of a helix is about twice the outer diameter of the wire members, crests and troughs have substantially a similar shape, and each trough is positioned outside the center of helix. A first fixing frame has first fixing bars fitted thereto, which first fixing bars are fitted with predetermined gaps to frame members opposing each other with a predetermined gap between them, and engage with the troughs positioned on the side of one of the surfaces of the helical wire members. Second fixing bars are fitted with predetermined gaps between the frame members of a second fixing frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignees: Nippon Steel Corporation, Taihei Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Nobuhiko Katsura
  • Patent number: 6647695
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for covering a flower pot with a sheet of material. The apparatus includes a supporting platform, a pot receiving opening formed through the supporting platform and a plurality of forming members radially arranged around the pot receiving opening. The plurality of forming members are designed and disposed such that upon insertion of the flower pot and the sheet of material into the pot receiving opening the forming members pivot in a downward direction and form the sheet of material around an outer peripheral surface of the flower pot. The forming members are also upwardly biased so as to assist in ejecting the covered flower pot in an upward direction from the pot receiving opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Southpac Trust International, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald E. Weder
  • Patent number: 6647696
    Abstract: An elongated packaging device is provided for packaging at least one disc-shaped media such as a CD-ROM or DVD, together with a cup-type beverage container of the kind typically having a cover with a central straw opening. The packaging device includes a cylindrical lid adapted to receive and retain a disc-shaped media, which cylindrical lid is then engaged to the beverage container. The lid includes a cylindrical support structure disposed on the upper surface thereof defining central support for the disc media by means of the annular opening at the center of the disc, such that the disc media is allowed to rotate, while limiting the linear movement of the disc media. The cylindrical support structure includes an opening so as to allow the passage therethrough of a straw. The lid also includes an annular shelf around the perimeter thereof, the inside diameter of which is larger than the outside diameter of the disc media, and the peak of which is coplanar with the peak of the inner structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Avecmedia Inc.
    Inventors: Alexandra Gordon, Charles W. Grimes, William L. Plumb
  • Patent number: 6647697
    Abstract: Self-contained wrap for a gift comprising, a first panel; a second panel, having a perimeter, fixed to the first panel along a first portion of the perimeter, so that a cavity is formed between the first panel and the second panel which is adapted to enclose the gift therein, and so that at least one opening to the cavity is defined along a second portion of the perimeter which is adapted to allow the gift to be passed through the opening into the cavity; and at least one flap, fixed to the second panel, which is adapted to fold over the opening and to adhere to the front panel; and method for using the wrap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2003
    Assignee: Wrap Solutions, Inc.
    Inventors: Nancy Zarrow, Kenneth Buckley