Patents Issued in December 11, 2003
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Publication number: 20030226687Abstract: Provided is a method of manufacturing a printed wiring board which keeps a good etching factor of formed circuits, eliminates an etching residue and can effectively prevent the occurrence of surface layer migration.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Tatsuo Kataoka, Tatsuya Aoki, Yasunori Matsumura
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Publication number: 20030226688Abstract: The present invention provides a circuit board including a first conductor layer forming a plurality of conductive circuit traces for interconnecting electronic components. The circuit board includes a substrate for supporting the first conductor layer and a pedestal formed from the substrate for supporting at least one of the plurality of electronic components. The pedestal provides a heat conduction path for conducting heat away from the at least one of the plurality of electronic components and a aperture in the substrate adjacent the pedestal for allowing a fluid to pass through the substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Vivek A. Jairazbhoy, Andrew Z. Glovatsky
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Publication number: 20030226689Abstract: A method for controlling drilling mud density at a location either at the seabed (or just above the seabed) or alternatively below the seabed of wells in deep water and ultra deep water applications are disclosed. The mud recirculation system may be used in conventional drill bit drilling operations or with drilling with casing operations. The present invention combines a base fluid of lesser density than the mud required at the wellhead to produce a diluted mud in the riser. By combining the appropriate quantities of drilling mud with base fluid, a riser mud density at or near the density of seawater may be achieved. The present invention also includes a wellhead injection device for attachment to the wellhead and for injecting the base fluid into the rising drilling mud at a location below the seabed. The riser charging lines are used to carry the low-density base fluid to the injection device for injection into the drilling mud below the seabed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Luc deBoer
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Publication number: 20030226690Abstract: An In situ reactor for use in a geological strata, is described and which includes a liner defining a centrally disposed passageway and which is placed in a borehole formed in the geological strata; and a sampling conduit is received within the passageway defined by the liner and which receives a geological specimen which is derived from the geological strata, and wherein the sampling conduit is in fluid communication with the passageway defined by the liner.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Corey William Radtke, David Bradley Blackwelder
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Publication number: 20030226691Abstract: A ground drilling machine comprises a controller for automatically controlling the injection of working liquid according to the output signal output as a function of the rotating condition of the pilot head 20. When the pilot head 20 is driven forward or backward, working liquid can be injected by switching the working liquid transfer valve 111 so long as the pilot head 20 is revolving in order to improve the digging efficiency, the soil delivering efficiency and the cooling efficiency of the machine. The injection of working liquid can be suspended when the direction of propelling the pilot head 20 is shifted while stopping the revolution of the pilot head 20 because no working liquid is required for delivering the dug soil and cooling the leading body. Thus, working liquid can be injected always at an optimal rate depending on the rotating condition of the pilot head 20 to suppress any waste of working liquid and reduce the construction cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.Inventors: Toyohiko Youan, Kentaro Watanabe, Eiichi Muramoto, Kazuyuki Yamazaki
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Publication number: 20030226692Abstract: In a pilot head 20 to be used in a ground drilling machine, the injection ports 22A for injecting digging liquid are directed rearward and angularly separated from the axis of rotation N by an obtuse angle &thgr;1 (168E). With this arrangement, when digging a leading hole D from a starting pit, the flow rate of digging liquid flowing from the front end of the leading hole D toward the starting pit can be increased to efficiently deliver soil produced by the digging operation to remarkably improve the soil removing efficiency.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: KOMATSU LTD.Inventors: Toyohiko Youan, Kentaro Watanabe, Eiichi Muramoto, Touru Hishiyama
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Publication number: 20030226693Abstract: An insert for a rock bit that includes tungsten carbide particles, and a cobalt binder disposed around the particles, wherein a grain size of the tungsten carbide particles and a content of the cobalt binder are selected to provide a fracture toughness of at least about 18 ksi (in)0.5, a wear number of at least about 2, and a hardness of 85 to 87 Ra is disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 25, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Dah-Ben Liang, Anthony Griffo
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Publication number: 20030226694Abstract: A core drill bit with at least two geometrically defined, flat cutting elements (2a, 2b), wherein at least a first cutting element (2a) has an axial rake angle (&agr;1) and a radial rake angle (&bgr;1) and a second cutting element (2b) with an axial rake angle (&agr;2) and a radial rake angle (&bgr;2) is present, wherein different axial rake angles (&agr;1≠&agr;2) and/or different radial rake angles (&bgr;1≠&bgr;2) are present or at least one cutting element (2a) is present with a radial rake angle not equal to zero (&bgr;1≠0)Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Steven Moseley
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Publication number: 20030226695Abstract: A method of assisting a person to achieve a weight control goal comprises determining a resting energy expenditure for the person using an indirect calorimeter, and converting the resting energy expenditure of the person into a number of resting points. The activity level of the person can be monitored or estimated, and converted into a number of activity points. The sum of activity points and resting points can be compared with the number of diet points consumed by the person, wherein the diet points are calculated based on calorie content and other nutritional values. The balance of these weight control points can be presented to a person, so as to assist the person succeed in a weight control program.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: James R. Mault
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Publication number: 20030226696Abstract: The present invention is a clutch assembly for use with motor driven toys, particularly a toy vehicle configured to be maneuvered on a surface. The clutch assembly includes a clutch operably coupled with the motor and a bell housing having at least one opening in its circumferential wall with a circumferential leading edge. At least an engagement end of the clutch is rotated within the housing. The clutch engagement end has finger members that resiliently flex outwardly from a center of rotation of the clutch. Each finger member has at least one small protrusion extending outwardly from the outside circumferential surface of the finger member that engages with the leading edge when the clutch is rotated and the finger member flexes outwardly.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 5, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Robert P. Spalinski, Matthew J. Del Duke, Bruce E. Gavins
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Publication number: 20030226697Abstract: The invention relates to a tracked vehicle having smooth driving and idler wheels 6, 7, 8 and 9, respectively, which frictionally transmit the tractive force to tracks 3, 4, in particular to rubber tracks, and which are mounted by means of a frame 3 which carries at least one driving engine 11.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: macmoter S.p.A.Inventor: Alois Johann Haringer
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Publication number: 20030226698Abstract: A personal transporter that provides both for propulsion by a user, and, at the same time, for dynamic stabilization by means of a powered actuator. A pitch variable such as pitch or time rate of change of pitch is sensed and used to determine the torque provided to a wheel, whether in a co-rotating or counter-rotating direction, in order to maintain stability of the transporter with respect to tipping in the fore-aft plane.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Dean L. Kamen, John M. Kerwin
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Publication number: 20030226699Abstract: A battery compartment for a motorized wheel chair includes a first securing bracket adapted to be securely connected to a side bracket of the motorized wheel chair, and a second securing bracket adapted to be securely connected to the side bracket of the motorized wheel chair and being opposite to the first securing bracket. A U shaped first frame is pivotally connected to the first securing bracket. A U shaped second frame is pivotally connected to the second securing bracket and to the first frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Merits Health Products Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ming-Chuan Cheng
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Publication number: 20030226700Abstract: A suspension for a cab of an over the highway truck or tractor. The suspension includes a pair of spaced apart springs and a pair of spaced apart motion dampers interposed between and connected to the cab and a frame of the truck or tractor. A third spring is mounted to one of the frame or the cab. A panhard rod has a first end connected to the third spring. A second end of the panhard rod is connected to one of the frame or cab that does not mount the third spring. The third spring biases the cab to a centered position relative to the frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Volvo Trucks North America, Inc.Inventors: Jeff Peddycord, Al Wingate
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Publication number: 20030226701Abstract: The present invention is a toy vehicle comprising a frame, a first wheel, a second wheel, and a turning mechanism including a rotatable arm mounted to the frame and a rotatable third wheel mounted to the arm. The arm is rotatable between a retracted position and an extended position, wherein, in the extended position, the third wheel contacts the surface and lifts one of the first and second wheels off of the surface. The third wheel then rotates to rotate the vehicle about a remaining one of the first and second wheels in contact with the surface. The vehicle further comprises a motor mounted on the frame. The motor is operatively associated with one of wheels to propel the vehicle and with the turning mechanism to lift and turn the vehicle. The toy vehicle is controlled with a remote control unit which is shaped like a remote-vehicle-entry key chain.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Joseph T. Moll, Aritty J. Newton, Michael B. DiBartolo
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Publication number: 20030226702Abstract: A torque distribution control device for a four-wheel drive vehicle is disclosed having a torque distribution device for distributing the drive power transmitted from an engine to either of the front wheels or the rear wheels as prime drive wheels, to other wheels as sub-drive wheels. In the control device, abnormality judgment means judges whether or not an abnormality is involved in wheel speed signals which are input from wheel speed sensors associated respectively with the front and rear wheels. Means is further provided for altering a normal-state method of calculating a command torque which is applied to the torque distribution device to vary the drive power transmitted to the sub-drive wheels, to an abnormal-state method of calculating the command torque based on data which does not include one wheel speed signal involving the abnormality when the same occurs with one of the wheel speed signals, whereby the vehicle is enabled to continue the four-wheel drive even when the abnormality occurs.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: TOYODA KOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Fukami Imai, Tatsuya Inagaki, Hisaaki Wakao, Kiyoshige Kato, Satomi Ito
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Publication number: 20030226703Abstract: A simple but improved seatbelt safety device is provided for preventing vehicles from starting an engine by an engine key without drivers or passengers wearing seatbelts. The seatbelt safety device for a vehicle is placed in an electric circuit for energizing an engine for the vehicle, via an engine starter key for starting the engine. The electric circuit includes a built-in ON/OFF switch seat buckle detector, an occupant's seating detecting ON/OFF switch or sensor in parallel, thereby enabling the engine starter key to start the engine only when an occupant is seated and the seatbelt is fastened.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Akira Amemiya
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Publication number: 20030226704Abstract: A failure diagnostic system detects a failure of a seat belt retractor having a motor for rotating a webbing take-up spool. The failure diagnostic system includes a power supplying device for supplying driving power to the motor for a predetermined period of time; a detecting device for detecting a current or voltage in a wire winding of the motor; and a determining device for determining the failure based on the current or voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: TAKATA CORPORATIONInventors: Hiroshi Aoki, Kenji Kitazawa
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Publication number: 20030226705Abstract: In a lift truck with variable range with at least three wheels and a telescopic arm (7), of the type comprising a steerable rear wheel (1) and two front wheels (2, 3), a driver station (5) and a motor propulsion group (9) secured to a chassis (4), the chassis (4) has as compact configuration and is elongated in the longitudinal direction of advance of the truck, and has safety means against the risk of loss of lateral stability; the safety means (11, 12) being adapted to oppose turning over of the truck.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Marcel-Claude Braud
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Publication number: 20030226706Abstract: A motor vehicle anti-theft apparatus is operable to erect a locked physical barrier to prohibit access to the the foot pedal assembly. The device includes a pair of vertically mounted guides which are mounted on either side of the foot pedal assembly between the pedals and the operator. A rod is rotatably mounted horizontally between the left and right channels proximate to the upper ends of the channels, and a shutter assembly is fixedly attached to the rod and is slidably disposed in the vertically mounted guides. The shutter assembly includes a plurality of elongated rectangular panels having an articulated linkage to one another wherein rotation of the rod causes the shutter assembly to be successively wrapped around the rod. The shutter assembly can be moved between an extended and retracted position wherein the retracted position permits access to the foot pedal assembly and the extended position provides a physical barrier to the foot pedal assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Roy J. Dixon, Revell Dixon
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Publication number: 20030226707Abstract: An agricultural combine is provided with a controller that estimates a hydraulic pressure of a rotor drive system based upon the speeds of the pump (or engine) and motor that drive the rotor. The pressure is estimated by generating a pump displacement control signal in a convention feedback control algorithm and using that signal together with a sensed motor speed signal and a sensed pump speed (proportional to engine speed) to estimate the hydraulic pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Yun-Ren Ho, John G. Brome, John E. Bundy
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Publication number: 20030226708Abstract: The present invention relates generally to vehicles, and particularly relates to a “personal mobility vehicle”, which is typically used by a single rider on relatively flat terrain and can be powered by rechargeable batteries. The vehicle is configured to be “broken down” into smaller subapparatuses for purposes of transport. Also included is the use of a single elongate pivoting control bar, which can be grasped by an operator's fingertips while the operator keeps the operator's palms on main handle grips.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 18, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Snapper, Inc.Inventors: Frank H. Hancock, Stephen C. Price
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Publication number: 20030226709Abstract: An EPAS assembly 10 is provided, including a steering input shaft 16 and a pinion shaft 18. The steering input shaft 16 includes at least input shaft pin 36 and the pinion shaft 18 includes at least one pinion pin 38. The pins 36, 38 reside respectively within at least one helical slot 32 and at least one axial slot 34 formed within a sleeve element 28. The sleeve element 28 translates differences in rotation between the steering input shaft 16 and the pinion shaft 18 into linear motion. A torque sensor 20 registers the linear motion of the sleeve element 28 and uses it to control power assist to the pinion shaft 18.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Edward Taylor Fowlkes, Edward Francis McElmeel, Michael James Kostrzewa
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Publication number: 20030226710Abstract: In an electric power steering apparatus provided with a steering state detecting means for detecting a steering state of a steering system, a motor control signal generating means for determining and outputting a motor control signal on the basis of a steering state detecting signal outputted from the steering state detecting means, a motor driving means for driving a motor on the basis of a motor control signal outputted from the motor control signal generating means, and a motor control signal monitoring means for monitoring the motor control signal generating means on the basis of the signals outputted from the steering state detecting means and the motor driving means, there are provided with an operation stop detecting means for detecting an operation stop command of the motor control signal generating means, and a steering state signal correcting means disposed between the steering state detecting means and the motor control signal generating means, and the steering state signal correcting means correctType: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: NSK LTD.Inventors: Yusuke Itakura, Hideaki Kawada, Kazuhiro Kumaido
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Publication number: 20030226711Abstract: A differential steering actuator including an input shaft, an output shaft, a motor in operable communication with a vehicle sensor and a differential gear element, wherein the differential gear element is communicated with the input shaft, and the motor so as to translate motion of the input shaft into motion of the output shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Ratko Menjak, James M. Card, Richard H. Leamon
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Publication number: 20030226712Abstract: A speaker box is covered with a buffer material exclusive of a portion where an acoustic output is derived from a speaker unit. The speaker box covered with the buffer material is attached to the surface of a wall member such as an interior member of a vehicle body or a side plate outside the vehicle body in a manner the speaker box is pressed by a holding member, which is a part of the interior member or designed member, and secured by bolts. Even when the surface of the speaker box is vibrated, the buffer material prevents an acoustic output due to the vibration from being generated so that no unnecessary acoustic signal is generated.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 2, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: FUJITSU TEN LIMITEDInventors: Akira Nishikawa, Akira Motojima, Hiroyuki Yoshii
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Publication number: 20030226713Abstract: Fire escape apparatus for egress from a multi-storied building structure from an upper level thereof is provided. The apparatus includes an elongate mesh tube, the tube being substantially longer than the structure height from which escape is required, and sufficiently long to enable extension of the tube downwardly to the ground. The building structure has permanently attached thereto a guide wire or cable extending at a desired angle from the upper level to the ground. The elongate mesh tube has affixed thereto, at spaced-apart intervals along its length, a plurality of supporting blocks-and-pulleys engaging the guide wire or cable. When escape is required, the mesh tube is deployed from the upper level to the ground, riding upon the pulleys, thereby permitting escape to ground level through said tube by persons entering the tube from the upper level.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Ralph T. Baker
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Publication number: 20030226714Abstract: Platform assemblies may be built up using a substantial number of inverted U-shaped vertical supports with platform hold down members that hold the platforms in place, thus avoiding slippage or pilferage. The hold down members form a unitary structure with the supports and platform assemblies to hold the platforms securely in place. The unitary structure of the scaffolding assembly with hold down members acts as a deterrent against pilferage of the platforms because the unitary structure does not allow the planks to be removed unless the platform assembly is substantially disassembled. It also reduces the steps required to assemble a secure platform assembly with hold down members thus saving time while still preventing slippage and pilferage. The hold down members have holes at one end, and these holes have a diameter slightly greater than the outer diameter (OD) of the guide pipes at the junctions between vertically extending pipes.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Michael D. Masino
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Publication number: 20030226715Abstract: A scaffold system, including a plank; at least one end support having a plank bracket, the plank engaging the plank bracket, the end support having adjustable legs, and the end support having at least one cross bar interconnecting the legs; a moveable tray including a plank attachment, a vertical support and an upper horizontal support, the vertical support interconnecting the plank attachment and the upper horizontal support, the plank attachment having a hook end adapted to encase an edge of the plank; and a material support bracket including a plank securement and a material support, the plank securement releasably and slidably joined to the plank, the material support adjustably joined to the plank securement.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Robin Nesburg, Roy Nesburg, James Nesburg
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Publication number: 20030226716Abstract: A grease fitting coupler device includes a body member with a slot on one side for engagement with a fitting and a series of passages through the body member connected with a lubrication source. A slidable valve member within the body member is pressurized against the fitting to seal the coupler device while lubricating fluid is passed therethrough.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Lisle CorporationInventor: Randall J. Ploeger
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Publication number: 20030226717Abstract: A device for active vibration damping dampens the structural resonance of an elevator car frame with a car body through measurement of the deformation of the frame. Under elastic deformation, a safety plank and a crosshead of the frame move parallel and relative to each other and two acceleration sensors aligned vertically (in the “z” direction) capture the movement. From the difference between the sensor signals, the “y” rotation of the safety plank and the crosshead is determined. The rotation and the signals from acceleration sensors on the frame are used to determine the shear movement of the frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Josef Husmann
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Publication number: 20030226718Abstract: A tripping device for engaging an elevator lift cage safety brake has actuating levers arranged at a rotary axle for engaging safety brake wedges of the safety braking device. Each actuating lever has a longitudinal slot matched to the diameter of the rotary axle, wherein the actuating lever is freely movable in the direction of the rotary axle and in the direction of the length of the actuating lever. A torsion spring fixes the actuating lever about the rotary axle. One spring end presses the actuating lever downwardly, wherein the movement of the actuating lever is limited by a lower abutment. The other spring end is detachably connected to a support. An upper abutment limits the movement of the actuating lever upwardly. The lower abutment and the upper abutment are each held at a respective end of a T-shaped shackle, wherein the shackle is fixedly connected to the rotary axle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 1, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Julien Maury, Stefan Hugel, Peter Aeschlimann
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Publication number: 20030226719Abstract: This invention relates to a gravity reacting brake system. According to the invention there is provided a brake system comprising a pair of graded brake cam structures disposed on opposite ends of a connecting rod. Connecting rod and cams are operatively disposed adjacent wheels via lever assembly mount. The natural pull of gravity and the configuration of the cams operate to allow passage of wheels in both directions when on flat surfaces and in only a single direction when on an incline. When on an incline, gravity operates to dispose cams relative to the wheels such that rotation of wheels in one direction is hindered by a thickening of cam body caused by rotation of cam about its axis. The system also includes adjustment means for setting the incline angle at which cams will operate to stop wheel rotation in the undesired direction.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Arthur J. Yeager
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Publication number: 20030226720Abstract: A bicycle hub brake component is provided for braking a hub of a wheel mounted on a bicycle frame. The component comprises a fastening bracket that has a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, wherein the fastening bracket is adapted to be nonrotatably mounted to the frame. A brake drum is adapted to rotate integrally with the hub, wherein the brake drum has a brake face on an inner peripheral surface thereof and a convex portion adapted to face the first surface of the fastening bracket. A bracket retaining component is removably mounted to the fastening bracket and extends diametrically so as to engage the convex portion to help prevent the brake drum from detaching from the fastening bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: SHIMANO, INC.Inventor: Keiji Matsueda
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Publication number: 20030226721Abstract: An auxiliary braking system for supplementing an existing bicycle braking system is disclosed. The brake wire of the auxiliary braking system is removably secured to an existing primary brake wire, so that the actuation of the auxiliary braking system causes the main brake wire to pull and activate the caliper brakes. The interconnection of the auxiliary brake wire to the main brake wire is achieved through a housing joiner which secures the auxiliary brake wire to the top tube of the bicycle frame and a bullet clamp which creates a secure connection between the main brake wire and the auxiliary brake wire.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: John Walter Karpowich
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Publication number: 20030226722Abstract: A bicycle hub brake component is provided for braking a hub of a wheel mounted on a bicycle frame The component comprises a brake drum and a cooling disk. The brake drum has a drum body that is adapted to rotate integrally with the hub, wherein the drum body has a brake face on an inner peripheral surface thereof. The cooling disk is crimped and/or caulked to an outer peripheral surface of the brake drum.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: SHIMANO, INC.Inventor: Keiji Matsueda
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Publication number: 20030226723Abstract: A bicycle hub brake component is provided for a bicycle hub brake that includes a fastening bracket adapted to be nonrotatably mounted relative to the bicycle frame, a brake drum adapted to rotate integrally with the hub relative to the fastening bracket, and a brake mechanism adapted to apply a braking force to the brake drum. The component comprises an actuating arm adapted to be movably mounted to the fastening bracket for actuating the brake mechanism, and an inner mounting portion for moving the actuating arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: SHIMANO, INC.Inventor: Keiji Matsueda
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Publication number: 20030226724Abstract: A bicycle hub brake component is provided for braking a hub of a wheel mounted on a bicycle frame. The component comprises a brake drum adapted to rotate integrally with the hub, and a brake shoe. The brake drum has a brake face on an inner peripheral surface thereof, and the brake shoe has a contact surface that contacts the brake face of the brake drum to apply a braking force to the brake drum. A grease groove is formed in the brake face of the brake drum, wherein the grease groove is aligned between side edges of the contact surface of the brake shoe.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: SHIMANO, INC.Inventor: Keiji Matsueda
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Publication number: 20030226725Abstract: Disclosed is a rod brake, and a method, including an elastic device, such as a coil spring, array of split rings, or an elastic sleeve, that engages one or more grooves in a cylindrical surface to restrain the rod from longitudinal movement relative to another body, and wherein longitudinal force is applied to distort the elastic device and push it out of the one or more grooves to release the rod for longitudinal movement. A locking sleeve is added to lock the elastic device against distortion and movement to the release configuration.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Cooper Cameron CorporationInventors: Timothy J. Allen, David H. Theiss
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Publication number: 20030226726Abstract: There is a brake disc rotor having a central hat (1) co-axial with surrounding rings (2) which form brake bands (3) for engagement with brake pads. The rings (3) are supported in a spaced apart parallel configuration with channels (12) therebetween whereby in use of the rotor cooling air is drawn in through vent means formed around the inner periphery of the rings (3) and then radially outwardly through the channels (12) as the rotor turns. The vent means include inlet vent ports (7) on the outboard side of the rotor.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Stephen Patrick Gavin
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Publication number: 20030226727Abstract: An electric parking brake device for a vehicle at least two of whose wheels on the same axle are steered wheels whose steering angle is imposed selectively on each steered wheel by a dedicated electric actuator, each electric actuator being controlled by a direction control unit which determines a steering angle for each of the steered wheels as a function of at least one signal delivered by a vehicle path control element. A parking brake control unit delivers a parking brake locking command to the control unit, such that, upon receipt of a parking brake locking command, the control unit transmits antagonistic steering angle commands to the two wheels on the same axle.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Daniel Laurent
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Publication number: 20030226728Abstract: A damper in which magnetic particles are difficult to sediment irrespective of the kind of a magnetic fluid is provided. A damper is constituted of a vessel in which the magnetic fluid is accommodated and a slider (piston). As the piston, one that is made of a laminated body of a paramagnetic substance and a non-magnetic substance is used. When thus constituted, the magnetic particles stick to the piston. Accordingly, whatever magnetic fluid is used, the particles do not sediment. The laminated body that is used as the piston has the non-magnetic substance at both ends thereof. When the laminated body is thus constituted, the magnetic particles sticks uniformly. When the laminated body has the magnetic substance at both ends, magnetic particles stick to both ends needle-like.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: TOHOKU TECHNO ARCH CO., LTD.Inventors: Kunio Shimada, Hideto Kanno
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Publication number: 20030226729Abstract: An automatic shoe clearance adjustment apparatus having a ratchet wheel 124b and a driving member 127 comprising a pawl section 127f making a ratchet engagement with the ratchet wheel 124b and an arcuate leaf spring section 127e developing a resilient force for adjusting the automatic shoe clearance adjustment apparatus. The leaf spring section 127e is made of bi-metal. When the temperature of the leaf spring section 127e exceeds the predetermined degree, the arcuate leaf spring section 127e thermo-deflects so as to weaken the resilient force, thereby the automatic shoe clearance adjusting operation is suspended.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 16, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Junichi Ohnishi, Yoshihiro Tatsumi
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Publication number: 20030226730Abstract: A tote bag for paper and supplies includes a bottom wall extending between bottom edges of generally parallel front and back walls. Expandable side walls extend between parallel side walls of the front and back walls to form an expandable storage area. Dividers are disposed within the expandable storage area and either permanently attach to the side walls, or have apertures for removable attachment to cables within the storage area. A cover is movable between an open and closed position. The cover includes side flaps attachable to the side walls, or an inner surface of the cover. Handles extend from each of the front and back walls, and a strap formed on the back wall is configured to fit over an extendable handle of a roller tote.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 10, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Curtis Richard Platte
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Publication number: 20030226731Abstract: A multiple working surface magnetic particle device for transferring torque between two rotatable members is disclosed. The magnetic particle device includes relatively rotatable members defining a gap therebetween containing a magnetically reactive medium. The magnetically reactive medium stiffens in the presence of a magnetic field interlocking the rotatable members. The multiple working surface design allows for a reduction in the size and weight of the magnetic field source resulting in a more compact, lighter weight magnetic particle device.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 27, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventors: Dale A. Stretch, Wade A. Smith
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Publication number: 20030226732Abstract: A stator is provided with an impeller and a one-way clutch. The stator includes at least one plain bearing and at least one side plate. The plain bearing is arranged adjacent to and on an axially outer side of a side portion of the one-way clutch and between an inner ring and an outer ring of the one-way clutch, and on its inner and outer peripheries, has flanges with bearing tracks formed thereon. The side plate is arranged on an axially outer side of the plain bearing and at a position adjacent to the plain bearing such that the side plate serves not only as a stopper for the plain bearing but also as a bearing track for a needle bearing. The plain bearing and side plate are provided with engageable portions, respectively, and are maintained in engagement with each other via the engageable portions.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: NSK-Warner K.K.Inventors: Taiji Kamiya, Hirobumi Shirataki
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Publication number: 20030226733Abstract: The invention relates to a sliding clutch for torsion-limiting force transmission between a reel and a rotating part which have two bearing members disposed concentrically within one another. One of the bearing elements is formed by a circular bearing sleeve which is radially resiliently deformable transverse to its rotational axis. The bearing sleeve and the opposing bearing member abut each other in the region of a circular joint and the force transmission is effected by frictional slaving in the region of the joint. With a view to improving the frictional slaving, a tensioning element is provided on the side of the bearing sleeve opposite the side adjacent the bearing member such that the tensioning element presses against the bearing sleeve to bias the bearing sleeve against the opposing bearing member.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 6, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicants: BIC Deutschland GmbH & Co., BICH-DUFOURInventors: Winfried Huthmacher, Roland Schneider
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Publication number: 20030226734Abstract: A clutch disk assembly 1 has a pair of axially facing plates 12 and 13. A relatively rotatable flange 8 is provided between the plates 12 and 13. A first elastic member 30 exhibits high rigidity on the positive side of the torsional characteristics. A second elastic member 31 is provided to operate in parallel with first elastic member 30 to realize a low rigidity on the negative side of the torsional characteristics. The stop pins 22 affix plates 12 and 13 together. The stop pins 22 and notches 8c are provided on the outer periphery of the flange 8 constitute a stopper mechanism 86 for regulating the relative rotation between the plates 12 and 13 and the flange 8. The stopper mechanism 86 is located on radially outside the second elastic members 31. The stop pins 22 are movable on the outer periphery of the second elastic members 31.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: Exedy CorporationInventor: Hiroshi Uehara
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Publication number: 20030226735Abstract: A release mechanism for actuating a friction clutch between an internal combustion engine and a transmission of a motor vehicle that is designed for concentric assembly on a guide sleeve mounted on a transmission shaft in order to bear against a release spring of the friction clutch where the guide sleeve and the friction clutch each having a respective center axis, includes a clutch release bearing. The clutch release bearing includes an inner ring, an outer ring, and a sliding sleeve connected with one of the inner ring and outer ring for axial movement with respect to the guide sleeve. The release mechanism also includes a first device for compensating for at least one of a tilt between the center axes and wobbling eccentricity of the release spring where the first device includes a spherical surface between the release bearing and the guide sleeve, and a second device for compensating for offset between the center axes.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 6, 2003Publication date: December 11, 2003Applicant: ZF Sachs AGInventors: Thomas Riess, Karl Muller, Kurt Lindner, Martin Geiger
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Publication number: 20030226736Abstract: A damper assembly has circumferentially arranged coil springs between drive plates, and secured by retainer formations on the drive plates, and by edges of retainer plates adjacent to respective drive plates to substantially prevent relative movement between drive plates and springs to prevent springs abrasion and breakage.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2002Publication date: December 11, 2003Inventor: Oleg B. Krivenkoff