Patents Issued in December 9, 2003
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Patent number: 6659469Abstract: An elastomeric valve stem seal component is adapted for installation over a valve guide of an internal combustion engine. The seal component incorporates fabric reinforcement within an annular jacket body of the component. In one preferred form, the fabric is positioned intermediate two elastomeric layers of the seal body; i.e. between an inner layer and an outer layer. One preferred manufacturing method provides extrusion of a tube having a fabric reinforcement layer already provided between inner and outer layers. A cutting die incorporates a push ring adapted to move the component along a staged molding assembly process. A series of threaded core pins are utilized for conveyance of the component in the fabrication process, which includes extruding a rubber tube and cover over a series of threaded core pins, cutting a portion of the rubber tube to a predetermined length, and molding the predetermined length to produce the component.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Dana CorporationInventor: Mark A. Leimer
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Patent number: 6659470Abstract: In an oil seal of a hydraulic shock absorber, the oil seal is made of a nitrile rubber of a low nitrile, and an inner diameter of a second lip is set to be smaller within a range between 0.3 and 1.0 mm &phgr; than an outer diameter of a piston rod.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Showa CorporationInventors: Hironobu Hosoda, Noriaki Maneyama
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Patent number: 6659471Abstract: A gasket is disclosed, which is adapted for the use in sealing of a tri-face area where a cylinder block, cylinder head and timing-chain housing meet together and come into abutment against one another. With the gasket of this invention, a deposit of bonding agent is applied on an end lug of a solid gasket material to improve the adhesive property and close adherence of the solid gasket material with a fluid gasket material that is filled in the tri-face area. The fluid gasket material charged in the tri-face area is securely fastened to the solid gasket material through the bonding agent. The end lug of the solid gasket material on which the bonding agent is applied is exposed to the tri-face area where both the cylinder head and the cylinder block are cut at their confronting edges to form bevels.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignees: Nippon Gasaket Co., Ltd., Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shingo Mori, Kazuyuki Geshi, Kazuya Hiroshima, Kazuya Yoshijima, Masao Murayama, Takashi Asano
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Patent number: 6659472Abstract: In a gas turbine including a nozzle retaining ring having a first annular axially sealing surface and a shroud segment having an axial registering second surface. To minimize or prevent leakage flow between the retaining ring and shroud segments, a generally U-shaped seal having reversely folded U-shaped marginal portions is received in a cavity formed in the second surface. At operating conditions, the marginal portions seal against the base of the cavity and the first surface of the retaining ring to prevent leakage flow past the retaining ring/shroud segment interface. To install the seal, the seal body is first compressed and maintained in a compressed state by applying one or more wraps about the seal body and an epoxy is used to secure the seal when compressed in the cavity. At operating temperatures, the retention means releases the seal to engage marginal portions against opposite sealing surfaces of the shroud segments and retaining ring.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Mahmut Faruk Aksit, Ahmad Safi, Abdul-Azeez Mohammed-Fakir, Srikanth Vedantam, Ning Fang, Gayle Hobbs Goetze, Brian Peter Arness, John Ellington Greene, Wei-Ming Chi
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Patent number: 6659473Abstract: A chuck for a percussion hand-held power tool including a coupling sleeve (3) for receiving a working tool and having two diametrically opposite, slot-shaped, radial openings (4, 4′) in which two locking members (5) radially and axially displace a locking sleeve 6 surrounding the coupling sleeve (3) and the locking members (5), and a spring-biased push-sleeve (8) formlockingly cooperating with the locking members (5), with the locking members (5) being supported against the inner surface (7) of the locking sleeve (6), extending into an interior of the coupling sleeve (3), and having each a radial dimension greater than a thickness of the coupling sleeve wall and a width decreasing toward a chuck axis (A).Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Hilti AktiengesellschaftInventors: Armin Below, Uto Plank, Erwin Manschitz, Josef Anzinger, Harald Geiger
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Patent number: 6659474Abstract: A chuck device is provide with an annular ratchet tooth wheel in a body, an annular nut member that engages with claws nd rotates together with a rotary sleeve, and a retainer spring member for engaging the ratchet tooth wheel. The retainer spring member is rotated around the ratchet wheel in accordance with rotation of a retainer spring receiving sleeve within the retainer spring receiving sleeve t at rotates together with a nut member and that is fitted around the nut member and made of metal. The retainer spring member is mounted on the retainer spring receiving sleeve by a convex/concave engagement means. A retainer working portion is provided in a working sleeve, for rotating with the retainer spring receiving sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Yukiwa Seiko Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuo Sakamaki, Akira Sakamaki, Chokichi Sato, Tadashi Taniguchi
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Patent number: 6659475Abstract: A suspension system includes a stabilizer bar having decouplable end links. A first segment of each end link is attached to the suspension member while a second segment is attached to the stabilizer bar. The second segment preferably selectively telescopes within the first segment. When the end links are engaged, the stabilizer bar is rigidly linked to the suspension members to provide roll resistance in a known manner. When the end links are disengaged, the second segment telescopes relative to the first segment to decouple motion of the suspension member from the stabilizer bar. The affect of the stabilizer bar is removed and the articulation range of suspension system is increased as it is unhindered by the torsional resistance produced by the stabilizer bar. Activation can be provided automatically through the controller or manually through a switch operated by the driver.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Meritor Light Vehicle, LLCInventors: Mark Clements, Joe Fader, Chris Keeney, Steve Yollick, Jim Hawkins
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Patent number: 6659476Abstract: A tack cart for transporting and storing tack. The cart includes a conveying member and a storage member mounted thereto. The storage member may be detached from the conveying member and may be mounted onto an independent support located remote from the tack cart. The storage member includes at least one saddle support member which may be detachably mounted on one of the conveying member and the storage member. The cart may further include a detachable bridle support that is receivable on one of the conveying member, the storage member and the independent support.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Matthew Weida
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Patent number: 6659477Abstract: A semi rigid golf bag having a hollow cylindrical main section, a plurality of storage compartments for golf equipment. The main section is formed from two semicircular half sections having semi-rigid walls attached by hinges to allow a user to open the main section to access the storage compartments. There are two insertion slots formed in the cylindrical main section, an insertion slot capable of retaining a cylindrical insertion bar when the insertion bar is inserted into the insertion slot; two wheel assemblies, each wheel assembly having a wheel attached to metal tube, the tube having an open end capable of receiving the insertion bar; an. outside circle and an inside circle defined concentrically on said top end of cylindrical main section. The circles define a golf club storage area and a second storage area for golf ball and glove storage.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Man Young Jung
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Patent number: 6659478Abstract: A wheeled walker convertible to a transport chair. The walker has a strap-type backrest that is pivotally attached to the upper end of the handlebars. The backrest can be placed in a forward position when the apparatus is used as a walker and the user wishes to rest in a rearward facing sitting position and in a rearward position when the apparatus is used as a transport chair and the user sits in a forward facing position and is propelled by a care-giver. A novel braking system locates the brake actuating linkage inside the leg and handlebar members and provides accommodates extension height adjustment of the handlebars. A brake lever system providing a linear pull non-cable brake actuation is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Random Products TrustInventors: Bjarki Hallgrimsson, Sarah Dobbin, Douglas D. Macmillan
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Patent number: 6659479Abstract: A suspension hanger assembly for receiving the bush end of a control arm is provided for adjusting axle alignment, without vertical displacement, and includes spaced-apart sides; each having aligned bores for a spindle, a bush pin and a fastening bolt. Two cams, having openings for the spindle, bush pin and fastening bolt, are aligned with the bracket bores. The bush pin bore of the bracket is horizontally elongated limiting vertical displacement of the bush pin. The fastening bolt opening of each cam is arcuate-shaped which allows cam actuation in an eccentric pattern. As the cam is moved, the bush pin moves horizontally respective to the bracket. The control arm bush is secured via the bush pin and fastening bolt. The control arm is fixed to the axle and horizontal movement of the control arm within the hanger bracket results in linear movement of that axle respective to the vehicle chassis.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Ridewell CorporationInventors: John Raidel, II, Emmitt A. Scammahorn, William Chaffin
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Patent number: 6659480Abstract: A braking apparatus for a skateboard (10) having an axle (36), wherein a braking member (42) is disposed about the axle (36), and is actuated by an actuating device (44) to engage with a wheel mounting assembly (92) of the skateboard (10) so as to effect braking of the skateboard (10).Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Benjamin John Newman
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Patent number: 6659481Abstract: An attachment of a vehicle axle to an axle suspension of a vehicle, such as a utility vehicle, includes a first plate element arranged on the upper side of the vehicle axle, a second plate element arranged on the lower side of the vehicle axle, and at least one spring clip, which connects the vehicle axle to an axle spring suspension of the axle suspension via the plate elements. To simplify assembly and mounting of this attachment, at least one web which is attached on its upper side to the first plate element and on its lower side to the second plate element may be arranged on each side of the vehicle axle so that the vehicle axle is completely surrounded and enclosed by the webs and the plate elements.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Michael Auerbach, Michael Helfrich, Lothar Noll, Michael Schober
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Patent number: 6659482Abstract: A steering assembly is provided for a vehicle including an upper connection, typically provided by an upper control arm. A knuckle includes an upper and lower portions with the upper portion supported by the upper connection. A lower assembly of the present invention includes a control arm with legs extending from a spring portion at spaced apart ends. The legs extend from its ends and converge to a lower connection for supporting the lower portion of the knuckle with the upper and lower connections defining a wheel camber and a wheel caster. Preferably, each of the legs of the control arm has a different spring rate to provide a change in wheel camber under the deflection of the control arm during wheel travel. The different spring rates of the legs permits the lower connection to twist thereby enabling the wheel caster to change slightly during the upward and downward motion of the wheel.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Meritor Light Vehicle Technology, LLCInventors: Robert P. Carlstedt, Mark C. Smith, Steven M. Foster, Daniel Eugene Whitney, Eric Stephen Geib, Richard M. Clisch, Shan Shih, Juan J. Marcos Munoz
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Patent number: 6659483Abstract: A telescoping bicycle fender for use on the rear wheel of a bicycle can be easily and quickly mounted and removed. The fender has three sliding sections which can be telescoped between a compact position in which the sections are nested together and an extended position in which the sections are telescoped out to extend around a substantial part of the wheel.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Simon Blythe
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Patent number: 6659484Abstract: Vehicle-mountable steps with platforms which have stowed and operational (deployed) positions. A latch mechanism positively locks the platform in the selected position. The step is designed for vehicles equipped with a ball-and-receiver type of trailer hitch and is coupled to the receiver of the hitch. The step is easily removed when the hitch is needed for towing but can otherwise be left on the vehicle as the platform of the step is located out-of-the-way beneath the vehicle when the platform is located in its stowed position.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventors: Daniel W. Knodle, Gary M. Bang
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Patent number: 6659485Abstract: A footboard which can be used in case of necessity by drawing out a footboard main body as a tread from a lower portion or a vicinity of the lower portion of a portion for getting on and off and then by lowering the footboard main body to an intermediate position of a height from a drawn out position to the ground below the footboard in order to make it extremely easy not only for general well-built adult men but also children, women, elderly people, people with leg or lumbar disabilities to get on and off a step portion and especially an automobile with a large vehicle height, called a van or a recreational vehicle, and having a door for getting on and off in a relatively high position. This is formed by assembling attachment members for attaching the footboard to the step portion, e.g.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Mamoru Ueno
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Patent number: 6659486Abstract: A compact exercise scooter supported by a pair of wheels is propelled by the cyclic operation of a pair of stabilized pedals by a standing user with hands on a handlebar. The elongate pedals are connected to a crank and guide for predetermined pedal angles configured to maintain heel contact during the cyclic operation. The feet are positioned on pedal extensions with the heels of the feet rearward of the crank pivots to develop superior crank torque imposed upon the wheels for faster speed and better startup acceleration. A means of adjustment is provided to change the predetermined pedal angles.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Paul William Eschenbach
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Patent number: 6659487Abstract: A flexible bike frame includes a top bar assembly, a lower bar assembly having a forward end connected to the top bar assembly and extending downwardly and rearwardly, and a seat bar assembly mounted on the rear end of the top bar assembly and extending downwardly from the top bar assembly toward the lower bar assembly. A shock reducing assembly reduces the amount of force transferred from a riding surface to a user. A plurality of joint assemblies are mounted on the frame for permitting changes in the distance between the ends of the top bar assembly. A first joint assembly is positioned between front and middle sections of the top bar assembly, a second joint assembly is positioned between middle and rear sections of the top bar assembly, and a third joint assembly is positioned on the lower bar assembly adjacent to the sprocket drive assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Tony S. Raco
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Patent number: 6659488Abstract: The present invention 10 discloses a new and novel tricycle with adjustable linkage 48, 54 for varying the drive power for either foot or hand power. Furthermore, the linkage 44, 52 can also be used to vary the wheelbase. Moving the front wheel 14 toward the rear wheels 22 provides for a tighter turning radius. Moving the front wheel 14 away from the rear wheels 22 provides for greater stability at high speed. In addition the linkage 48, 54 provides for the selective placement along a horizontal and/or vertical plane relative to the seat 24 allowing persons of varying size to comfortably position the pedal assembly 16. Additionally, the present invention 10 has a cantilevered seat frame 30 with the seat 24 at one distal end and the other end forming a yoke 32 connected to the front wheel steering pivot column 34 whereby left movement of the seat 24 results in a right turn of the front wheel 14 and a right movement of the seat 24 results in a left turn of the front wheel 14.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventors: Bernardo Yuri Beresnitzky, Peter Borochov
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Patent number: 6659489Abstract: A bicycle fork/hub cover assembly overlies a portion of a front fork and the ends of the front hub to change the appearance of the front portion of the bicycle. The cover assembly basically comprises an outside cover portion, an inside cover portion and snap-on fastening elements that couple the outside cover portion and the inside cover portion to a bicycle frame. The outside cover portion includes a right hub cover section, a left hub cover section, a right outside fork tube cover section, and a left outside fork tube cover section. The inside cover portion includes a right inside fork tube cover section, and a left inside fork tube cover section. The fastening elements are coupled to the outside cover portion and the inside cover portion.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventors: Takuji Masui, Stascha Offenbeck, Hartmut Esslinger, Nico Michler
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Patent number: 6659490Abstract: A fifth wheel trailer hitch adaptor system for providing a safer and more stable way to tow a fifth wheel trailer. The fifth wheel trailer hitch adaptor system includes a vehicle. A receiver is secured to the vehicle. The receiver has an aperture extending through the receiver. A fifth wheel trailer hitch member has a base portion. A connection bar is secured to the base portion. The connection bar has a distal portion extending outwardly from the base portion. The distal portion is insertable through the aperture in the receiver. The distal portion has a hole extending through the distal portion. A pin member is couplable to the distal portion through the hole whereby the connection bar is secured to the receiver.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Benny M. Simpson
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Patent number: 6659491Abstract: A trailer system is provided in which the trailer system can include a frame having a front end, a rear end, opposing sides between the front end and the rear end and a hitching mechanism coupled to the front end of the frame. The trailer system can also include a wheel assembly coupled to the frame in which the wheel assembly contains at least two wheels and a stabilizing mechanism coupled to the frame and the wheel assembly. The trailer system can also include a plurality of wheel assemblies and stabilizing mechanisms. Further, the frame of the trailer system can have at least one first support member extending from the front end section to said rear end section and at least one second support member extending from said first support member towards one of said side sections. Each stabilizing mechanism can be coupled to the rear end, front end or one of the opposing sides of the frame. In addition, each stabilizing mechanism can be coupled to one of the first or second support members of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Ralph William Green
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Patent number: 6659492Abstract: A ski includes an elongated body having a bottom surface and a surface modifier having a first surface with a smooth texture and a second surface opposite to the first surface with a rough texture. The surface modifier is reversibly attached to the bottom surface of the elongated body thus providing the bottom surface with a smooth texture suitable for downhill skiing when the second rough textured surface is attached to the bottom surface and with a rough texture suitable for uphill and cross country skiing when the first smooth textured surface is attached to the bottom surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Michael B. Gousie
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Patent number: 6659493Abstract: A connector plate for ski bindings of snow skis and snowboards consists of two connecting segments (1), constructed from an elastic layer (2) made of an elastic material, for example rubber or silicon, within which located along its lateral axis which lies perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the ski (4) or snowboard, is at least one solid supporting element (3), which divides the elastic layer (2) into two regions, one region is compressed and the other expands during the flexing of the ski (4) or snowboard, in addition the construction allows for longitudinal movement in the elastic layer (2) of the connecting segments (1), all of which takes place while both connecting segments are interconnected via their upper surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Milan Trnka
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Patent number: 6659494Abstract: Downhill ski bindings are mounted with the toe and/or heel piece mounted to a moveable track. For a quick release even backward, a ski pole handle button is depressed. A signal reaches a receiver on the ski. The receiver activates an actuator which pulls the track, thereby enlarging a mounting distance for the boot. The boot is released since the binding system is instantly sized too big for the boot. Gas and spring release mechanisms are disclosed. Sound making sub-systems are disclosed. Pivoting heel mounting plates are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Ralph M. Martin
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Patent number: 6659495Abstract: An electronic or musical instrument carrier for supporting and facilitating transport of such equipment. The carrier comprises a rigid base sufficiently strong and large to support the equipment, and the base preferably has a plurality of casters mounted to the bottom thereof. The top of the base has laminated or otherwise secured thereto a layer of hook and loop fastener material. A plurality of corner cleats, which have a mating hook and loop fastener material secured to the bottom thereof, are provided and can be removably attached on the material which is secured to the base to cradle and resiliently support corners of the electronic equipment. A strap or other device can be provided to secure the electronic equipment onto the base. In an alternative embodiment, a cover for the electronic equipment can be provided and which fits within suitable mating grooves in the top of the base.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: SKB CorporationInventor: David B. Sanderson
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Patent number: 6659496Abstract: A trailer with a base having a front, a rear, and an axle. An upper frame pivotably coupled to the base frame and longer than the base frame. A towing tongue is coupled to the front of the upper frame.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Extreme Engineering, L.L.C.Inventor: Jeffrey Dean Wilson
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Patent number: 6659497Abstract: A mobile tri-modal trailer having a load bearing earth-traversing mode, a felled game processing mode and an equipment transport mode. When the three distinct modes are combined into the tri-modal trailer user may, if desired, transport substantial weight to a hunting location via a any convenient vehicle. Once the user has arrived at the hunting location, the tri-modal trailer is parsed into its three distinct operational functions and supporting apparatus. The felled game processing mode in concert with the equipment transporting mode's supporting apparatus i.e., the felled game processing equipment, is removed from a substantially rectangular member and a retractable A-frame is removed from the confines of its storage chamber. The retractable A-frame is erected into a selected upright position. The felled game processing equipment is attached to the retractable A-frame. After processing the felled game the parsed three modes are recombined into the tri-modal trailer.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Michael S. Owens
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Patent number: 6659498Abstract: A steering wheel comprises a steering wheel body, an airbag module movably mounted on the steering wheel body and at least one guide that is connected to the airbag module as well as to the steering wheel body, the airbag module being adapted to be moved over a displacement path relative to the steering wheel body for purposes of actuating a horn. The guide has at least two carriers that are arranged transversely to the direction of the displacement path and parallel to each other as well as offset in the direction of the displacement path. Further, the guide has a first end that is connected to the airbag module and a second end that is connected to the steering wheel body.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: TRW Automotive Safety Systems GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Guido Hirzmann
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Patent number: 6659499Abstract: An inflatable device (10) has a vent (42) for enabling venting of inflation fluid. A patch (50) covers the vent (42). A release thread (70) releasably secures the patch (50) to the device to close the vent (42). A holding mechanism (82) has a first condition in response to a sensor (30) sensing a condition requiring venting of inflation fluid, and a second condition when venting is not required. The holding mechanism (82) when in the first condition holds the release thread (70) so that at least a portion of it pulls away from the patch (50) and the device (10), when the device inflates, thereby releasing the patch to open the vent (42). The holding mechanism (82) when in the second condition releases the release thread (70) for movement with the patch (50) in a direction away from the holding mechanism, when the device (10) inflates.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey A. Jenkins
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Patent number: 6659500Abstract: A simplified multi-chamber inflator 10 utilizes a housing 12 having two initiator chambers 42 and 44 respectively formed within an initiator assembly 18. The initiator assembly 18 may be formed from a one-piece component or alternatively, may be formed by coupling a first component 26 and a second component 28 in nested relationship within the housing 12. A primary propellant chamber 52 fluidly communicates with initiator chambers 42 and 44 upon actuation of inflator 10.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.Inventors: David S. Whang, Eduardo L. Quioc, Rickey L. Stratton
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Patent number: 6659501Abstract: An invention relates to an inflatable gas bag (10) for an occupant restraint system of a vehicle, in particular of a motor vehicle. In order to avoid the formation of creases in the inflated state, which occurs with conventional gas bags and in order to be able to employ more lightweight textile materials for the manufacture of a gas bag, the gas bag (10) consists of a multilayered textile composite material which comprises at least one layer of a textile material and one layer of a polymer material whose melting range is lower than the melting range of the textile material. The textile composite material is formed into a specified three-dimensional shape which is to develop during inflation of the gas bag (10), and the individual layers of the textile composite material are joined together in this three-dimensional shape.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventors: Joseph Rychter, Wilhelm Karl Lehmann
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Patent number: 6659502Abstract: An impact protection device for vehicle occupants includes a gas bag having a segment and a lateral segment. The gas bag is connected to a gas generator so that gas produced by the gas generator can flow into the gas bag. In a folded-up state of the gas bag the lateral segment is disposed adjacent to the segment in such a manner that when the gas bag is inflated, the lateral segment can execute a swiveling movement away from the segment about a swivel axis so that the gas bag is transferred into an at least partially unfolded state. A method of providing an impact protection for vehicle occupants is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Volkswagen AGInventors: Jörg Breyvogel, Hans Fehrmann
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Patent number: 6659503Abstract: A trailer having a length varied by the extension of beams from an extendable end. The trailer is further defined by having a saw on the extendable end and a crane for holding trees on the other end, which is typically a low end. The trailer also has, at the extendable end, hydraulicly controlled supports for leveling the trailer at the extendable end. The trailer is also defined as being extendable in width as well as the length.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Tony R. Damron
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Patent number: 6659504Abstract: A vehicle steering column has a rake adjustment mechanism which includes a rake bracket having a rake slot provided with rake slot teeth. A tooth lock is supported in the rake slot with teeth opposing the rake slot teeth. A rake bolt is rotatable to a first rotative position to move the tooth lock to a retracted position with the teeth of the tooth lock out of engagement with the rake slot teeth. The bolt is axially rotatable to a second rotative position permitting the tooth lock to be moved to a locking position by a spring in which the teeth of the tooth lock engage the rake slot teeth. The bolt, when in the second rotative position, is movable, in response to an application of an impact force on the steering column to collapse the steering column, into bearing engagement with the tooth lock to positively retain the tooth lock in the locking position. The steering column is also provided with a release mechanism having shear pins and an energy absorption mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Richard Kremer Riefe, Marvin V. Manwaring, Ray Garnet Armstrong, Ravindra Jwalapathy, Stephen W. Skillman
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Patent number: 6659505Abstract: A system and device for managing the restraints available for vehicle occupants that uses fluidic torque conversion to provide an adaptive variable load limiting for the primary occupant safety restraint. The fluidic torque conversion of this invention can be variably controlled through the use of an electro/mechanical flow control device. The flow control is preferably coupled to one or more sensors, including occupant weight, occupant position, seat position, low “g”, high “g”, and belt displacement/latching sensors. This invention is adapted to be responsive to the vehicles interior safety devices, including front air bags, side air bags, seat back pivots, head rests, collapsible steering wheel, and positioning of the dash board and/or vehicle instrumentation. This invention is a re-usable system.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2000Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventor: Matthew J. Knox
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Patent number: 6659506Abstract: An index system using single axis or multiple axes with single and multiple leaves turning around this axis (axes). All leaves or groups of leaves present an exposed marginal portion obtained by relative extension of leaves and/or partial removal of a portion of the marginal portion (s), which provides an overview of the content, which is indexed in groups and subgroups. Use is made of brief descriptions, capital letters, numbers, arrows and distinctive background color for facilitating the use of the index system.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2000Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Enn Erisalu
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Patent number: 6659507Abstract: Tamper-apparent authenticating labels which comprise a protective film, an OVD image layer and a visually transparent ink pattern therebetween, to be applied to commercial articles. Authenticity of the label can be verified by viewing the taggant with a detector. The label reveals tampering when the film is separated from the article, causing separation of portions of the OVD under the ink. Also, methods for making tamper-apparent authenticity labels.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: American Bank Note Holographics, Inc.Inventor: Michael Banahan
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Patent number: 6659508Abstract: A security document, banknote, bond, travellers check, passport or token, including a substrate (1), said substrate having a device including a first macro-embossing (2, 3) of the substrate having a predetermined feature, and a second micro-embossing of smaller dimensions formed in or on said predetermined feature of said embossing. The first embossing being formed to hide and reveal said second embossing at predetermined viewing angles &agr;, &bgr;. The macro-embossing may comprise lines having a height of about 20 microns and a spacing of 80 microns, and the micro-embossing in the form of lines or dots (4) to a height of about 2 to 5 microns. The lines have a predetermined height (H) and a predetermined spacing (S) such that the ratio S:H is typically from about 6:1 to 2:1.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Note Printing Australia LimitedInventors: Joshua Robert Nemeth, Wayne Kevin Jackson
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Patent number: 6659509Abstract: This invention relates to a threaded joint for steel pipes which comprises a pin and a box each having a contact surface including a threaded portion and an unthreaded metal contact portion and which guarantees galling resistance and gas tightness in a stable manner without application of a compound grease. A solid lubricating coating comprising a lubricating powder (e.g., molybdenum disulfide) and an organic or inorganic binder is formed on the contact surface of at least one of the pin and the box. The proportion of area of a cross section along the thickness of the solid lubricating coating which is occupied by secondary particles of the lubricating powder having an equivalent circular diameter of 15-60 &mgr;m is from 5-90%. Alternatively, the solid lubricating coating comprises, in addition to the lubricating powder, a fibrous filler (e.g., inorganic whiskers) in such an amount that the mass ratio of the fibrous filler to the binder is 0.01-0.5.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2003Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kunio Goto, Keishi Matsumoto, Kazuyuki Nakasuji, Toshiro Anraku, Shigeo Nagasaku
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Patent number: 6659510Abstract: A pipe-end-connecting joint comprisse a nipple 1 inserted in the pipe end, a holder 2 for tightening the outer circumference of the pipe end, and an elastic packing 3 divided into half parts and attached in the holder 2. The nipple 1 includes a tubular portion 11 provided in one longitudinal end side thereof so as to be inserted in the pipe end, a connection portion 12 provided in the other longitudinal end side thereof so as to be connected to another joint, and a flange portion 13 provided in a longitudinal intermediate portion thereof so as to protrude outward.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 1999Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Totaku Industries, Inc.Inventors: Hiroshi Ikegami, Yasuhiro Kikumori, Toshihiro Nakanishi, Susumu Okairi, Nobuo Shindo, Tatsuya Machino
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Patent number: 6659511Abstract: A flexible pipe joint apparatus for use in a fluid (e.g., water) transport pipe system for maximally absorbing an external force such as a compression or tensile force applied to a pipe of the fluid transport system due to an earthquake, differential settlement, thermal expansion or contraction of the pipe per se, thus preventing resultant damage at a weak portion of the pipe. The apparatus includes a receiving tubular member and an inserting tubular member insertable into and connectable with the receiving tubular member along a tube axial direction. A stopper portion is formed in an outer peripheral face of the inserting tubular member, the stopper portion projecting radially outward from the outer peripheral face.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Waterworks Technology Development Organization Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideki Yoneyama, Akihito Totsugi
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Patent number: 6659512Abstract: An integrated circuit package includes a package substrate having a first surface including a first array of interconnection sites and a second array of interconnection sites. A first integrated circuit die has a first surface including an array of interconnection sites. A second integrated circuit die has a first surface including an array of interconnection sites. The first array of interconnection sites is electrically connected to the array of interconnection sites of the second integrated circuit die. The second array of interconnection sites is electrically connected to the array of interconnection sites of the first integrated circuit die. The first integrated circuit die is positioned amid the package substrate and the second integrated circuit die.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Timothy V. Harper, Greg L. Allen
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Patent number: 6659513Abstract: A closure, for connecting two thin walls, such as a sheet metal cabinet door to a sheet metal cabinet frame is disclosed, which comprises a bearing piece, arranged in or on an opening in the first thin wall and a shaft, retained in the bearing piece and which may be rotated and axially displaced therein. A pivoting lever is mounted on the on outer end of the shaft and, on the other inner end of the shaft, a retaining piece is arranged, which may be engaged with an opening in the second thin wall. The retaining piece comprises a cupular guide piece and a sleeve piece, which may be inserted in and rotated in the cupular guide piece against the force of a spring. A catch projects from said sleeve piece in the direction of the wall plane which, in the locked position, extends beyond the outer surface of the guide piece as far as the rear surface of the second thin wall and rests thereon.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Inventor: Dieter Ramsauer
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Patent number: 6659514Abstract: An electromechanical interlock for a swinging elevator door is disclosed. The interlock comprises a pivotal hook member that may be attached to a swinging elevator door. The hook has a beak end and may pivot between a locked and an unlocked position. Disposed on the beak end is an electrical conductor. When the interlock is in the locked position, the beak end engages a lug and the conductor contacts electrical contacts to complete an electrical circuit. A solenoid pivots the hook from a locked position to an unlocked position. The electromechanical interlock may be adapted for use with sliding elevator doors as well as swinging doors.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Thyssen Elevator Capital Corp.Inventor: Patrick M. Bass
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Patent number: 6659515Abstract: A motor-vehicle door latch has a pair of engageable parts one of which is movable between a pair of end positions and through an intermediate position and a pair of end-position sensors and an intermediate position sensor operable when the parts reach the respective positions. A drive engages at least one of the parts for displacing the parts from one end position through the intermediate position into the other end position. A controller operates the drive to displace the parts from the one end position to the intermediate position only when travel of the parts from the one end position to the intermediate position takes place in less than a predetermined first time and displaces the parts from the intermediate position to the other end position only when travel of the parts from the intermediate position to the other end position takes place in less than a predetermined second time different from the first time.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Kiekert AGInventors: Raja Raymond, Aleksandar Hrnjak, Marek Czekanski
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Patent number: 6659516Abstract: The invention generally pertains to a portable computer having a base and a lid. More particularly, the invention pertains to an improved locking system for securing the base relative to the lid. One aspect of the invention relates to a latch that is placed in a recess when the lid is opened so as to eliminate unsightly and harmful protrusions. Another aspect of the invention relates to a latch that is automatically extracted from the recess when the lid is closed so as to secure the lid to the base. For example, a magnetic actuator may be used to automatically extract the latch when the lid is closed. Yet another aspect of the invention relates to a button for releasing the secured latch so as to allow the lid to be opened.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Apple Computer, Inc.Inventors: Shyue-Yang Wang, John C. DiFonzo, Daniele De Iuliis, Andrew L. Johnston
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Patent number: 6659517Abstract: In an apparatus for transmitting and method a movement which, as a function of a first, translational movement of a first coupling element to which a first component can be coupled, produces a translational movement of a second coupling element to which a second component can be coupled. The invention provides that the first and the second coupling element are connected to one another, such that they can move by a first rigid element, and in that the first coupling element is connected to a first lever which is mounted in a fixed position, and the second coupling element is connected to a second lever which is mounted in a fixed position. When a movement is being transmitted, the arrangement thus results in the capability first of all to retard the movement of the second component and later to accelerate it again in a corresponding manner, or vice versa.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2001Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Torsten Kuntze, Bernd Malner, Jens Schimmelpfennig
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Patent number: 6659518Abstract: The invention relates to a bumper bar (2) for a motor vehicle, comprising front (4) and rear (6) walls and an intermediate web (14) extending from the front wall to the rear wall so as to form with the latter an “H”-shaped section. The web has an undulating shape in cross section.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Peguform FranceInventors: Jean-Philippe Ponsonnaille, Thierry Renault