Patents Issued in November 25, 2003
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Patent number: 6651651Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing medicament comprising a housing having a support; a container, locatable within said housing, having an outlet member, wherein said container is movable relative to the housing to enable dispensing therefrom and said outlet member is connectable with said support to prevent relative movement therebetween; and a detector for tracking the relative proximity of the container to the housing, said detector comprising an inductive displacement transducer including one or more inductive elements, wherein said container is comprised of, or has attached thereto a component comprised of, a material capable of disturbing the magnetic field creatable by the flow of electric current in said one or more inductive elements, and related uses and methods.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: SmithKline Beecham CorporationInventors: Stanley George Bonney, Anthony Patrick Jones
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Patent number: 6651652Abstract: A respiratory aid system has a device arranged for connection to a living creature in order to facilitate, support and/or control the respiration of the living creature. The device can be a ventilator or a neuroelectrical stimulation device. For faster and more efficient and more accurate respiratory aid the system contains a respiration detector, devised to pick up neuroelectrical signals from the living creature, identify respiration-related signals and send a control signal, related to the identified signals, to the device.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Siemens-Elema ABInventor: Leif Wård
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Patent number: 6651653Abstract: The present invention is directed to a much safer and less expensive way of providing portable oxygen from a gas concentrator for patients who do not want to be tied to a stationary machine or restricted by present oxygen technology. In one preferred embodiment, the present invention splits off some of the excess capacity gas flow from a gas concentrator which is then stored via liquefaction. The stored gas can then be used as a portable supply. A portion of the oxygen gas flow generated by the oxygen concentrator is channeled to a condenser which receives and liquefies the oxygen gas using cryocooler. A storage dewar is used for storing the oxygen liquefied by the condenser. Liquid is then selectively transferred to a smaller portable dewar. A controller can be used for monitoring the parameters of liquefaction, including oxygen concentration, the amount of liquid oxygen in the dewar, and for controlling the parameters of liquid oxygen generation and transfer.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 1999Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignees: SeQual Technologies, Inc., Teijin LimitedInventors: Scott C. Honkonen, Theodore B. Hill, Charles C. Hill, Graham Walker
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Patent number: 6651654Abstract: A mode of providing halotherapy to the lower respiratory tract that includes the step of operating a plastic apparatus and inhaling. The plastic apparatus contains sodium chloride (common table salt) User operates the plastic apparatus to release a dosage of salt-filtered air for inhalation when the apparatus is aimed into the user's mouth by way of corrugated plastic tubing and a plastic breathing regulator located next to a plastic mouthpiece. The user then inhales the dosage of salt-filtered air to target the lower respiratory tract (lungs). This dosage of salt-filtered air supplies a concentration adequate to produce potent halotherapy and with continual use, on a daily basis, eliminates dyspnea due to chronic respiratory ailments.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Zenon Anthony Rogacki
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Patent number: 6651655Abstract: In a method for creating an immune response, a vaccine is prepared in the form of a dry powder. The powder particles have an aerodynamic particle size range from 1-100 microns. A dose of powder is loaded into a dry powder inhaler. The dose is inhaled with an inspiratory flow rate of less than 60 liters per minute. A mucosal immune response is created via particles of the vaccine material depositing on the upper respiratory tract. A systemic immune response is created via particles of the vaccine material depositing into the deep lung. The vaccine material is size reduced by e.g., jet milling, into the desired range, yet vaccine potency is retained.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2000Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Quadrant Technologies LimitedInventors: Cynthia Licalsi, Gary Ward, Bernard Greenspan, Clyde Witham
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Patent number: 6651656Abstract: An apparatus, method and system for non-invasive breathing assistance to a patient. The apparatus comprises a hose or other gas conduit with a valve. Proximity of the patient to a sensor causes the valve to open, directing a pressurized stream of air or other gas at the patient's mouth, assisting the patient in breathing.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Deka Products Limited PartnershipInventors: Jason A. Demers, David McGill
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Patent number: 6651657Abstract: A respirator for supplying a patient with breathing is provided such that the respiration will not be compromised at the time of a changeover from one form of respiration to another form of respiration. Provisions are made for carrying out a first form of respiration with the corresponding first setting parameters and for taking over the corresponding setting parameters at least partially from the measured values determined during the first form of respiration and the first respiration parameters that remained invariant at the time of the changeover of the forms of respiration at the time of a changeover to a second form of respiration.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2000Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Dräger Medizintechnik GmbHInventors: Jürgen Manigel, Thomas Simmerer
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Patent number: 6651658Abstract: The present invention is directed to a portable oxygen concentrator system adapted to be transported by a user. The portable oxygen concentrator system includes an energy source, an air separation device powered by the energy source and adapted to convert ambient air into concentrated oxygen gas for the user, at least one sensor adapted to sense one or more conditions indicative of the oxygen gas needs of the user, and a control unit interrelated with the air separation device and the at least one sensor to control the air separation device so as to supply an amount of oxygen gas equivalent to the oxygen gas needs of the user based at least in part upon the one or more conditions sensed by the at least one sensor.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2000Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignees: SeQual Technologies, Inc., Teijin LimitedInventors: Theodore B. Hill, Edward A. Radtke, Robert A. Schneider, James A. Bixby
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Patent number: 6651659Abstract: A pressurized gas supply system includes a pressurized container which expands and contracts. The container includes a one-piece liner molded from a polymer which is reinforced by a high tensile fiber such as KEVLAR®. A valve is molded into the liner, and a regulator is connected to the valve. A hose, having a conserver positioned therealong, extends between the regulator and a fitting allowing a user to inhale gas from the container. The container is carried in a carrying bag, which can be in the form of a carrying case, a purse, or a back-pack.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: John I. Izuchukwu
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Patent number: 6651660Abstract: An apparatus for supplying respiratory gas to a parachute jumper includes a mask which can be worn by the parachute jumper and a first respiratory gas reservoir includes a pressurized-gas vessel containing respiratory gas. The pressurized-gas vessel has an adjustable metering valve for metering respiratory gas contained in the pressurized vessel. A breathing hose connects the metering valve to the mask for conducting the respiratory gas to the mask. A second respiratory-gas reservoir contains a solid-state oxygen generator and has a manually-actuable starting device for the solid-state oxygen generator. The second respiratory-gas reservoir is connected to the breathing hose.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Dräger Aerospace GmbHInventors: Siegfried Zimprich, Rudiger Meckes, Carsten Mantey, Herbert Meier
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Patent number: 6651661Abstract: An ergonomic face mask is provided for the administration of gas under a positive pressure to a patient. The face mask includes a cushion that provides a seal with the patient's face, and a dome connected to the cushion that receives a connection tube for receiving the gas from a source, such as a bag. The dome is asymmetrical, and defines a plurality of grooves and protuberances configured to allow the comfortable use of the mask with one hand.Type: GrantFiled: March 12, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Adrian A. Matioc
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Patent number: 6651662Abstract: An alignment and connection mechanism for more quickly attaching a mask-mounted regulator to the facepiece of a self-contained breathing apparatus is disclosed. The alignment and connection mechanism provides an alignment member preferably mounted on the regulator and a guide member preferably mounted on the facepiece. The user initially attaches the alignment member to the guide member at a connection point which is visible to the user through the lens of the facepiece when it is being worn. The regulator is then slid down the guide member until it is in proper alignment for connection to the facepiece.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignees: Mine Safety Appliances Company, MSA Europe GmbHInventors: Christopher L. Prete, Peter V. Kling
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Patent number: 6651663Abstract: A nasal mask assembly that includes a seal member defined from a unitary piece of elastomeric material. The seal member defines a nose receiving cavity and has a first end portion and a second end portion generally opposite the first end portion. A first opening in the first end portion allows at least a portion of a nose to enter the nose receiving cavity such that the nares of the patient communicate with the nose receiving cavity. The seal member includes a neck portion defined in the second end portion and a second opening defined in the neck portion in communication with the nose receiving cavity. A reinforcement area is provided on the side walls of the seal member. The reinforcement area comprises a saddle shaped contoured area on each side of the seal member. Each saddle shaped area has an upper and a lower protrusion portion for providing supporting contact with the face.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Respironics, Inc.Inventors: Shari S. Barnett, Joseph M. Miceli, Peter Ho, Kristine K. Sabo
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Patent number: 6651664Abstract: The invention concerns a tracheal tube with an inflatable cuff surrounding the tube which has a sealing function against the trachea, and which is through a separate channel connected to the surroundings to monitor and regulate the inside pressure in the inflated cuff. The particular feature of the inflatable cuff is a number of local bulges distributed along the circumference of the cuff. With the invention it is accomplished that the sealing in the areas with bulges becomes effective, because the channels formed by the length-wise folds in the cuff are interrupted by thin-walled bulges, in such a way that liquid and secretions do not penetrate down into the patient's lungs.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Niels Lomholt
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Patent number: 6651665Abstract: A magnetic guide system for intubation of a tube into a patient's passageway. The system includes an intubation tube having a distal end sized for insertion into the patient. The tube includes a proximal end maintained external of the patient, and a flexible mid-portion allow lateral bending. A magnet member is enclosed on the distal end by a means for containment to allow rotation of the magnet member therein. The means for containment is composed of a material for passage of gases and liquids therethrough, while the magnet member is rotatable therein. The distal end and enclosed magnet member is insertable into a patient's passageway. Movement of the intubation tube distal end and rotating magnet member is influenced by movement of an external magnetic field from at least one magnet positioned external of the patient. A method for intubation of the intubation tube into a patient's passageway leading to a target organ is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Ibionics, Inc.Inventors: D. Matthew Sellers, Ivan N. Cooper, Bruce L. Fariss
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Patent number: 6651666Abstract: Pressure in a cuff on an endotracheal tube is controlled by a fluid circuit that includes a port on the endotracheal tube, a moisture absorbent barrier covering that port, a one-way valve, a pressure manometer as well as a pilot balloon fluidically connected to the cuff. A thumb wheel is included in one form of the invention to control operation of the one-way valve.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Norman L. Owens
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Patent number: 6651667Abstract: An improved male condom includes a flexible tubular body that is configured to cover a penis. The body includes a closed end and an open end. The closed end is configured to conform to a shape of the head of a penis. The open end is adapted to be positioned over the shaft of the penis. An inwardly projecting ridge is positioned on the closed end and extends along at least a portion of an inner circumference the tubular body. The ridge is configured to engage the rear of the penis head to thereby promote enhanced size, function and sensation for the user and his partner.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Brian J. Osterberg
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Patent number: 6651668Abstract: A condom having an inflatable portion is provided. The condom comprises an inner wall and an outer wall defining an annular chamber extending along a portion of the length of the condom. An air source, such as a handheld pump, is removably connected to a port which leads to an airway in the chamber for delivering air to a forward portion of the chamber. A plurality of vents are provided at a rearward end of the chamber for venting the air.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Scott Praml
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Patent number: 6651669Abstract: A control unit, such as, e.g., an RF generator, for limiting the usage of a medical probe, such as, e.g., a catheter or surgical probe, is provided. The control unit includes a control circuit that is configured for storing a plurality of historical operational indicator sets within a database, wherein each of the historical operational indicator sets corresponds to a respective medical probe operated with a control unit. Each of the historical operational indicator sets includes a probe identification code, the presence of which indicates previous operation of a respective medical probe with a control unit, and one or more supplementary historical operational indicators, such as, e.g., an initial probe usage time and/or an incremental probe usage, which provides additional historical operational information concerning the respective medical probe.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 1999Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.Inventor: Robert R. Burnside
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Patent number: 6651670Abstract: Devices and methods for delivering conduits into the wall of a patient's heart to communicate a coronary vessel with a heart chamber. The devices are passed through the coronary vessel and the heart wall to place the conduit and establish a blood flow path between the vessel and the heart chamber. Additional devices and methods are provided for removing tissue from a coronary vessel or the heart wall to establish a flow path between the coronary vessel in communication with the heart chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 1998Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Ventrica, Inc.Inventors: Alan R. Rapacki, Darin C. Gittings, Gilbert S. Laroya, Mark J. Foley
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Patent number: 6651671Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for performing less-invasive surgical procedures within the heart. A method for less-invasive repair or replacement of a cardiac valve comprises placing an instrument through an intercostal access port and through a penetration in a wall of a vessel in communication with the heart, advancing the instrument into the heart, and using the instrument to perform a surgical intervention on a cardiac valve in the heart under visualization through an intercostal access port. The surgeons hands are kept outside of the chest during each step.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 1999Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Heartport, Inc.Inventors: Brian S. Donlon, William S. Peters, Michi E. Garrison, Daniel C. Rosenman, John H. Stevens
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Patent number: 6651672Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are provided for accessing the interior of the heart and performing procedures therein while the heart is beating. In one embodiment, a tubular access device having an inner lumen is provided for positioning through a penetration in a muscular wall of the heart, the access device having a means for sealing within the penetration to inhibit leakage of blood through the penetration. The sealing means may comprise a balloon or flange on the access device, or a suture placed in the heart wall to gather the heart tissue against the access device. An obturator is removably positionable in the inner lumen of the access device, the obturator having a cutting means at its distal end for penetrating the muscular wall of the heart. The access device is preferably positioned through an intercostal space and through the muscular wall of the heart.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Heartport, Inc.Inventor: Alex T. Roth
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Patent number: 6651673Abstract: In an arrangement of a collecting receptacle integrated into a production machine in the tobacco-processing industry for collecting tobacco products sorted out from the production machine during a production process, the collecting receptacle is removable from the production machine and is comprised of two parts.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2000Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Hauni Maschinenbau AGInventor: Uwe Heitmann
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Patent number: 6651674Abstract: A hair heating device for use with regard to a permanent wave, which may elevate the hair temperature in a uniform manner without applying an excessive amount of heat energy not only to the head at a time but also to the hair locally so that the hair may escape deterioration and discoloration, and a process for permanent or dyeing hair by the device. The hair heating device includes two swing arms in the form of an arch, which include heaters mounted on the inside thereof, a concentric reverse reduction gearing, and a motor for driving said gearing. The concentric reverse reduction gearing is provided with an output shaft member A and an output shaft member B arranged such that both the output shaft members may rotate in opposite directions. A transmission member of the swing arm is connected with the output shaft member A, while a second transmission member of the swing arm is connected with the output shaft member B.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Oohiro Works Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shigetsugu Ozaki, Shigechika Kobayashi, Hirohisa Shimizu
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Patent number: 6651675Abstract: The process according to the invention comprises twisting a plastically deformable wire, typically of metal, so that it imprisons fibers within it, with the parts of the fibers projecting from the wire forming bristles in a helicoidal spiral, and of shaving off some of the bristles in predefined angular sectors by using the twisted wire to guide the components causing the total or partial ablation of the bristles.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Coty S.A.Inventor: Jean-Louis Mathiez
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Patent number: 6651676Abstract: A dental floss package includes a dispenser for dispensing a dental floss. The dental floss has a plurality of floss segments. Each floss segment is of a length that is suitable for a single flossing. Adjacent floss segments are different colors. And one of the floss segments is specially marked so that it is distinguishable from the other floss segments. A location indicator is provided to indicate the specific location of the specially marked floss segment along the length of the dental floss from the leading end of the dental floss. The location of the specially marked floss segment is indicated as the number of floss segments into the length dental floss. The location indicator is removably attached to the dispenser so that it can be concealed from the user. When the user encounters the specially marked floss segment, the length of the flossing regimen is calculated and compared to the location information on the location indicator.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Christopher D. Hekimian
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Patent number: 6651677Abstract: Provided is a method of controlling the timing of ignition of a compression ignition internal combustion engine of a premixed mixture type in which a premixed gas is self-ignited through compression by a piston, the volume of fuel spray impinging upon the inner wall surface of a combustion chamber is continuously or stepwise increased as the engine speed is changed from a low value to a high value, and which can optimumly control the timing of compression ignition in accordance with an operating condition of the engine at a low cost without complicating the apparatus configuration.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Yoshihiro Sukegawa, Shiro Yamaoka, Yusuke Kihara
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Patent number: 6651678Abstract: A method of etching a semiconductor device preventing tapering of a gate electrode edge includes a main etching of an electrode or wiring material supported by a dielectric film at a semiconductor substrate surface to expose the dielectric film. After the main etching step, residues of the electrode or the wiring material by sequentially etching utilizing a first gas mixture including a halogen-containing gas and an additive gas suppressing etching of the dielectric film by the halogen-containing gas, and in a second gas mixture gas including the halogen-containing gas and the additive gas and having the additive gas amount in a larger concentration than the first gas mixture.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kenji Shintani, Mutumi Tuda, Junji Tanimura, Takahiro Maruyama, Ryoichi Yoshifuku
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Patent number: 6651679Abstract: Process for the disintegration and cleaning of contaminant-containing raw paper stocks. The process includes producing a contaminant-containing suspension, feeding the contaminant-containing suspension to a closed coarse screen, drawing of a cleaned flow fraction from the closed coarse screen, and drawing off an overflow fraction containing an increased amount of contaminants from the coarse screen during at least about 80% of an operating time. The process also includes adjusting a volumetric mass flow of the overflow fraction to at least about 15% and maximally about 50% of a volumetric mass flow of an inflow into the coarse screen, and feeding the overflow fraction to a screening device, in which contaminants collected are sluiced out discontinuously as a further overflow fraction, thereby forming a further cleaned flow fraction.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbHInventors: Michael Danger, Peter Respondek, Reimund Rienecker, Samuel Schabel
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Patent number: 6651680Abstract: Dirt, particularly of inorganic matter, attached to a substrate, such as a glass substrate for liquid crystal devices, is effectively removed by irradiating the substrate with ultraviolet rays including 184.9 nm and 253.7 nm in an oxygen-containing atmosphere in advance of wet cleaning with pure water. As a result, the wet cleaning time and the amount of pure water can be reduced.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2000Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Masaaki Suzuki
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Patent number: 6651681Abstract: A method and apparatus for process washing of a process device is provided. The process washing apparatus includes a washing device that moves inside the process device. A washing medium of the washing device is led at least partly inside a body of the washing device in order to lead the washing medium to a target. The washing medium is sprayed to the target by nozzles disposed in the body of the washing device. The apparatus includes first and second supply assemblies for supplying the washing medium to the nozzles. Flow of the washing medium to the first supply assembly is controlled independently of flow of the washing medium to the second supply assembly, and the supply assemblies are capable of moving independently of one another. A method of operating the apparatus including controlling the flow of the washing medium and moving the supply assemblies independently of each other is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Aarne Hurskainen
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Patent number: 6651682Abstract: An umbrella frame includes a hub, a center pole coupled to the hub for supporting the hub, and a plurality of ribs disposable into the hub. The ribs serve to extend, stretch or support the cover. The hub has a corresponding plurality of pairs of bores defined therein. One of the bores of each pair is used for deploying the ribs in a configuration to support the cover and the other for storing the ribs. One of the bores of the pair is inclined relative to a horizontal plane defined by the hub, and the other is vertical to a horizontal plane. Each rib has an end disposable into the hub and a spring lock to selectively lock into the hub. The pair of bores coact with the spring lock to selectively lock the rib in the bores in both the deployment and storage configurations.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: James Woodward
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Patent number: 6651683Abstract: A method and apparatus for carrying a reacher on a walker includes a bag which is shaped and dimensioned to receive the reacher. Straps on the bag allow the bag to be attached to one of the side assemblies of the walker so that the bag is held in a convenient angled back position. The mouth of the bag is biased open so that the reacher may be easily inserted and removed.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventors: Lee Douglas Hooks, Therese Yukie Hooks
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Patent number: 6651684Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a cane including a handle, a hollow shaft, and a stand mechanism for standing the cane in an upright position upon its shaft. The stand mechanism is releasably retractable from within the hollow shaft through a hand grip mechanism manually operable by the user of the cane. Additionally, the present invention provides for an actuating mechanism extending from the handle, through the shaft and to stand mechanism for actuating the stand mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: A. Robert Spitzer
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Patent number: 6651685Abstract: A demountable, wind-resistant sun shade canopy for shading childrens' play areas or other actively used areas. The canopy cover, being removably secured over a metal support structure, is comprised of vertical columns upon which are mounted at the upper end thereof respectively, uniquely configured bracket fittings, each bracket fitting providing secure mounting for a cantilever beam extending outwardly toward the perimeter of the area to be shaded, and providing secure mounting for a hip beam extending upward and toward the inner portion of the area to be shaded.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventors: Kevin T. Connelly, Ernesto De Oliviera
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Patent number: 6651686Abstract: An actuator system for a system valve exposable to a source of system pressure. A piston within a sensing vessel is caused to move longitudinally from a first position to a second position in response to a designated system pressure. A first piston stem carried by the piston is mechanically coupled to an actuator control valve, which is interposed in a fluid path between an actuator and a source of actuator pressure. Movement of the piston from its first to second position causes the coupled actuator control valve to block the fluid path linking the actuator and its pressure source, thereby causing a predetermined change in pressure at the actuator. As a result, the actuator shifts from its unactuated to its actuated state, thereby causing the system valve to shift from a first system valve position to a second system valve position.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventors: Gary W. Scantlin, Charles P. Cravens
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Patent number: 6651687Abstract: A pressure relief system for detecting and correcting an overpressure situation in a pressurized fluid. The system includes a pressure responsive member such as a buckling pin configured to mechanically collapse when a predetermined force is applied to the member. An actuator assembly axially compresses the member in response to the pressure of the fluid and rotates a first shaft upon mechanical collapse of the member. A bypass valve assembly establishes a bypass path for the fluid upon rotation of a second shaft. A clutch mechanism decouples the first and second shafts prior to and during initial stages of mechanical collapse of the member and subsequently couples the first and second shafts during remaining stages of mechanical collapse of the member. In this way, forces associated with the bypass valve assembly are isolated from the actuator assembly during steady state operation and during the initial stages of mechanical collapse.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Taylor Innovations, L.L.C.Inventor: Julian S. Taylor
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Patent number: 6651688Abstract: A divider combiner valve using only one spool without any springs. The correct holes open and close by ball and seat type check valves although these could be a poppet or disk as well and these valves may be located in the valve body, the spool, or both. These are simple and reliable. There is no chance of the holes not being in the correct location. Since there is only one spool, contamination cannot keep the spools from shifting into their correct relationship with each other. The extra pressure drops, needed to overcome the spring forces in the earlier designs, have been eliminated all together. Also, the number of spools has been reduced from two or three down to a single spool, thus reducing the cost to manufacture the finished valve. Because there is only one spool, clearances are closer. There is less internal leakage, more accuracy while the cylinders are in motion. This closer clearance tends to lock the loads rather than transfer oil from one cylinder to the other.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventors: Glen Brand, Timmy L. Chew
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Patent number: 6651689Abstract: A valve stem assembly for use with a pneumatic tire includes a stem, a first quick couple connector and a second quick couple connector. The first quick couple connector is attached to the stem. The first quick couple connector includes a first valve therein. The second quick couple connector is detachably coupled with the first quick couple connector. The second quick couple connector opens the first valve when the first quick couple connector and the second quick couple connector are coupled together. The second quick couple connector includes a second valve therein.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2000Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Reineke Company Inc.Inventor: Clyde G. Stech
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Patent number: 6651690Abstract: A system for releasing growth inhibiting chemicals downstream in an air conditioner drain assembly. The system also allows a user to vary the concentration and time for releasing the growth inhibitor chemical. A main elongated tubular member is perpendicularly connected with inlet and outlet tubular members that include rotably mounted female connectors that are removably connected with threaded male connectors. The latter in turn are connected to upstream and downstream drain pipe lines. The inherent structure of the system facilitates its operation and maintenance.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Gregory Coogle
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Patent number: 6651691Abstract: Universal valve mounting device for mounting a variety of valve actuators to a variety of valves is disclosed. The universal valve mounting device includes a mounting plate and a valve actuator fastener provided on the mounting plate. A valve mounting fastener is likewise provided on the mounting plate, and the mounting plate is configured for securing a variety of valves to a respective variety of valve actuators each having a variety of valve mounting plate fasteners locations. The mounting plate may include a bend configured for creating a thermal break for providing air flow between an actuator mounted to the mounting plate and the mounting plate. A slot may likewise be provided on the mounting plate that is of sufficient size and length to accommodate various sizes and spacing of fasteners for securing a mounting plate to a variety of valve actuators, in use. The bend may include a leg.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: John Scott Phipps
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Patent number: 6651692Abstract: A modular oxygen supply system is provided comprising at least one module skeleton with a baseplate with frames arranged in parallel to one another. The system includes supply lines for ambient air with air connections for taking off the air, first gas lines for oxygen with first gas connections for taking up the oxygen and second gas lines for outgoing air with second gas connections for taking up outgoing air. Rack guides with data lines are provided. At least one individual module can be pushed into the module skeleton. Each individual module has at least one molecular sieve container fastened on a baseplate with the gas connections and with an electric contact. Each individual module has a gas treatment unit for the ambient air fed in. A pressure reducer and a multiple-way valve as well as an oxygen reservoir are arranged downstream of the molecular sieve container or containers connected in parallel.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Dräger Aerospace GmbHInventors: Rüdiger Meckes, Herbert Meier, Wolfgang Rittner
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Patent number: 6651693Abstract: The check valve (12, 14) of the present invention is a ball-type valve that incorporates multiple annular valve seats (34, 38) of progressively smaller diameters for the specific purpose of providing a series of effective annular valve seats as the larger annular valve seats progressively deteriorate, and as the ball valve elements (24) wear away (decrease in diameter) from use, for example, as abrasive slurry is pumped through the check valves and through the fluid pump. Each of the annular valve seats (34, 38) comprises a flexible or otherwise deformable annular lip defined by a cylindrical section having an annular groove (36, 40) formed therein slightly outboard of the cylindrical section, such that the cylindrical section may deform slightly outwardly into the annular groove, thereby effecting an improved functional sealing engagement with the ball valve element (24) as the tip of the cylindrical section deforms outwardly into the annular groove.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventors: John M. Simmons, Tom M. Simmons, David M. Simmons
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Patent number: 6651694Abstract: Covers, containers, multi-ply insulators and methods are disclosed for maintaining a desired thermal environment for carried or conveyed materials. The insulating cover of this invention for use over a liquid supply tube of the type associated with body mountable hydration pack system includes a multi-ply envelope having outer and inner material layers, the outer layer having an outwardly facing reflective surface, preferably a silver MYLAR with knit backing. The inner layer includes an open cell foam with a smooth, inwardly facing, lining.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: The Protector CorporationInventors: Ronald L. Krenzel, Cynthia M. Dyke
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Patent number: 6651695Abstract: A diaphragm operated pressure regulating valve for connection between a source of gas under pressure and the point of use comprises an inlet port having an axis, a valve element coaxial with the inlet port and a coaxial ball and cam valve element actuating arrangement controlled by the diaphragm which is transverse to and coaxial with the inlet port.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: GAAP Gas Controls, LLCInventors: Josef A. Bartos, Harsharan Grewal
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Patent number: 6651696Abstract: A relief valve with two outlet ports increases the flow capacity of the valve when open. In an alternative embodiment, a relief valve with two outlet ports also has at least two springs stacked vertically. Alternative seal assemblies can be used with the aforementioned dual outlet port valves.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Gilmore Valve Co., Ltd.Inventors: Rodney C. Hope, Richard R. Watson, F. Harold Hollister
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Patent number: 6651697Abstract: A fitting, particularly a tap cock, for receptacles such as tank trucks or containers, which includes a housing (2), having an inlet opening (12) and an outlet opening (14), and a rotatable body (4) with a through passageway (48), having an inflow opening (50) and an outflow opening (52). The rotatable body (4) is rotatably disposed in the housing such that when rotated into an open position it facilitates fluid communication between the inlet opening (12) and the outlet opening (14) and when rotated into a closed position, it shuts off such communication. The fitting of the invention enables a large throughput during loading and unloading of the receptacle with little structural change by providing the rotatable body (4) with a second inflow opening (54) having a cross-section at least approximately the same size as the first inflow opening (50), and by providing the housing (2) with a bearing ring (46) or a seat ring (82) in the vicinity of the second inflow opening (54).Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Xomox International GmbH & Co.Inventor: Wolfgang Gonsior
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Patent number: 6651698Abstract: A suppressor for a fluid line in a manifold, including a mounting body removably securable to the manifold, and a diffuser attached to the mounting body and located in the fluid line when the mounting body is secured to the manifold. A charge bladder is secured to the mounting body and disposed inside the diffuser, and a charging valve is secured to the mounting body for charging gas through the mounting body into the interior of the charge bladder. A discharge opening is between the charge bladder interior and an opening in the mounting body adjacent the manifold when the suppressor is secured to the manifold, and a seal is securable over the discharge opening and between the mounting body and the manifold when the mounting body is secured to the manifold. The seal alone is structurally incapable of preventing discharge of charge gas from the charge bladder, but prevents discharge of charge gas from the charge bladder when the mounting body is secured to the manifold.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Wilkes & McLean Ltd.Inventor: Roy G. Wilkes
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Patent number: 6651699Abstract: A liner for a branch pipe of an old repaired pipe lined with a polyethylene liner, the liner comprising: a branch pipe portion made of a tubular body, the branch pipe portion being insertable into an existing branch pipe branching from the old repaired pipe; a welding plate provided at a first end of the branch pipe portion, the welding plate having a top surface to be welded to an inner surface of the polyethylene liner and being formed to have a curvature corresponding the an inner surface of the old repaired pipe; at least one O-ring attached tightly to an outer circumferential surface of a second end of the branch pipe portion; an expandable pressing ring for pressing against an inner surface portion of the second end of the branch pipe portion adjacent to the O-ring to force the O-ring to form a watertight seal against the existing branch pipe; an expanding key for holding the pressing ring in an expanded position to maintain the pressure of the pressing ring against the second end of the branch pipe porType: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Inventor: Tae-Joo Kweon
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Patent number: 6651700Abstract: A device for eliminating propagation of a buckle in the outer wall of a double-walled tube, where the double-walled tube comprises an outer pipe, an inner pipe and an annular space between them in which the deformable element is disposed with the external surface of the deformable element in contact with the internal wall of the outer pipe and the interior of the deformable element being spaced outward from the inner pipe and having a sheath on the interior of the deformable element. The deformable element may be a wound wire, a profiled wire, an interlocked wire with interlocked turns, a non-interlocked wire, a spring with turns urged outwardly or reinforcement with turns urged outwardly and bearing blocks in the annular space on the inner pipe for at least one end of the reinforcement.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: CoflexipInventors: Antoine Bastard, Jeroen Remery