Patents Issued in January 6, 2004
  • Patent number: 6672292
    Abstract: A fluid inlet suitable for introducing a hot exhaust gas into the air intake tract of an internal combustion engine. The exhaust gas is conducted through an inlet pipe (15) and a deflector (18) into the intake pipe or tract (13). A preferably tubular insert (23) is disposed in the intake tract (13). The insert has walls (22) which are oriented in the direction of flow of the aspirated exhaust gas. The fluid inlet reduces the thermal stress on the walls of the intake tract (13) to a minimum and makes high exhaust recovery or recirculation rates possible. In order to additionally support cooling of the insert, the insert may be provided with apertures (26) through which a secondary air current of the intake air which flows through an intermediate chamber (25) can shift to the interior of the tube in order to achieve film cooling of the insert (23).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Filterwerk Mann & Hummel GmbH
    Inventor: Jochem Fischer
  • Patent number: 6672293
    Abstract: The exhaust gas recirculation valve device of the present invention is provided with a motor main body 20 which drives a valve 8 by a valve rod 6 in direction of opening or closing, and a motor holder 21 which covers the lower opening of the motor main body 20. A circular groove 50 is formed on one of the upper section of the motor holder 21 and the lower opening of the motor main body 20 and a protrusion 60 which fits into the circular groove 50 is formed on the other of the upper section of the motor holder 21 and the lower opening of the motor main body 20. A liquid sealant layer 70 is disposed between upper face 61 which is the top of the protrusion and the lower face 50a which is the bottom of the circular groove 50 facing the upper face 61.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hisashi Yokoyama, Yasuhiko Kato, Takeshi Ikai
  • Patent number: 6672294
    Abstract: A rocker box for a motorcycle engine incorporates a crankcase breather air return passageway formed as a labyrinth with numerous sharp zig-zag turns lubricating oil fog or mist coalescing into droplets in the airstream accumulates as deposited liquid oil on the interior surfaces of the portals and chambers of the labyrinth, and is conducted by gravity through suitable drain vents to be delivered directly to the crankcase. The airstream is thus largely separated from entrained oil fog or mist, minimizing any collecting of oil on the air cleaner or filter through which the breather airstream is delivered on its way out of the crankcase, reducing or eliminating any accumulation of oil on the air filter exposed to the external environment, and substantially avoiding the introduction of entrained oil in intake air delivered to the engine for combustion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas A. Pirone
  • Patent number: 6672295
    Abstract: A circuit for supplying an oscillation suppress current is provided between a collector terminal and gate electrode of a main IGBT. The current supply circuit comprises a resistor and a diode which are connected in series. A bypass MOSFET is connected between the series connection and the emitter terminal. No semiconductor element having different temperature characteristics is provided in the current supply circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiko Kohno, Junpei Uruno, Mutsuhiro Mori
  • Patent number: 6672296
    Abstract: A collecting exhaust port 18 provided in a cylinder head 12 is comprised of exhaust port sections 46 extending from exhaust valve bores 35 in cylinders 14, and an exhaust collecting section 47 in which the exhaust port sections 46 are collected. The cylinder head 12 includes a protrusion 49 projecting in an arch shape outside a side wall 111 of a cylinder block 11. The exhaust collecting section 47 of the collecting exhaust port 18 directly faces an inner surface of a side wall 12 of the protrusion 49. Water jackets J2 and J3 for cooling the protrusion 49 are provided in upper and lower surfaces of the protrusion 49 having the collecting exhaust port 18 defined therein. The water jackets J2 and J3 are not provided between the side wall 121 of the protrusion 49 and the exhaust collecting section 47. Thus, the compact cylinder head 12 having the collecting exhaust port 18 integrally provided therein can be formed, while avoiding the complication of the structure of a core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yasutoshi Ito, Sadao Kojima, Teruo Kobayashi, Masakatsu Honda, Shinji Yamada, Masaki Kanehiro, Naohiro Isogai
  • Patent number: 6672297
    Abstract: A baseball pitching machine includes a support portion on which a case is mounted for accommodating a friction wheel operatively coupled to a motor. A tube is mounted to the case and defines a ball passage in communication with the case. The tube includes a straight shooting section and an angled feeding section having an inlet opening to which a cap is connected. The cap is normally closed to prevent foreign objects from entering the pitching machine. A detection member is mounted in the inlet opening of the feeding section and is actuateable by opening the cap to give off an audio warning via a speaker. The cap has stop plates for prevents the ball from directly traveling to the shooting section before the cap is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Grace Liao
  • Patent number: 6672298
    Abstract: A method is provided for profiling pitches of an actual pitcher using a programmable pitching simulator of the type having at least two wheels and a video display component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: ProBatter Sports, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory J. Battersby, Michael T. Suba
  • Patent number: 6672299
    Abstract: A quickly detachable, modular arrow quiver adapted for mounting to a bow, hip belt, tree stand, or other suitable structure. The quiver typically includes a hood to shield broadheads, and an arrow holder spaced from the hood by a rail. A preferred resilient mount is self-biased to interface along an axis of the rail and hold the quiver in a tool-free, height adjustable position relative to structure on which the mount is installed. The resilient mount and suspended quiver mass act in concert as a vibration dampening system when installed on a bow. The modular quiver may be adjusted for length or appearance by use of different interchangeable rail, arrow holder, or hood components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Robert G. Proctor
  • Patent number: 6672300
    Abstract: A respiration assistor (10) for use in an anaesthesia breathing system. The respiration assistor is intended to provide respiratory assistance for a patient (14) who is breathing spontaneously under anaesthesia in order that the patient's end-expired CO2 will be maintained at or near the normal physiological level. For this purpose, the respiration assistor incorporates a blower (15) which is located in series with a gas flow detector (20 or 39) and an electric control circuit (19) is provided for activating the blower (15) when inspired gas flow is detected by the detector (20 or 39). Also, the respiration assistor incorporates an expiratory valve (23) that is actuated to a closed condition when the blower is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Graham Cameron Grant
  • Patent number: 6672301
    Abstract: Apparatus for keeping hot and for transporting prepared dishes, in particular pizzas, from the producer to the consumer, using a motor vehicle equipped with a thermally insulated container, which in its lower portion is provided with a heat exchanger using which the heat supplied by an external source is transmitted to the air in the container by heat conduction and radiation, characterised in that the container is laid out as an essentially square box at the bottom of which the heat exchanger is incorporated. One of the four lateral walls of the box is linked to the box, forming a door which is sealed and gives access to the container. The other three lateral walls and the top cover of the box are laid out as double walls enclosing air interspaces, which on their sides are all mutually interconnected and towards the front, towards the access door, are connected to the inner chamber of the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Roberto Delzanno, Lorenzo Delzanno
  • Patent number: 6672302
    Abstract: A gas burner has a gas distribution section, an inlet to the gas distribution section connected to a supply of combustible gas, a plurality of outlets, and a gas diffuser. The gas distribution section includes at least one tubular member having a substantially flat first side and formed into a closed loop-shape. In one embodiment, the burner outlets are slots arranged along the first side and oriented substantially transverse to the axial direction of the tubular members whereby a locally uniform flame front is provided at each outlet. The gas diffuser is disposed adjacent the burner inlet to facilitate a uniform flame front along the entire gas distribution section by smoothing out fluctuations or variations in the incoming gas flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Wayne/Scott Fetzer Company
    Inventors: Daniel P. Voorhis, Charles E. Wood
  • Patent number: 6672303
    Abstract: A selectively assembleable and disassembleable grilling device for preparing food comprises a set of substantially flat plates coupled together by a retaining assembly extending between a pair of the flat plates. The plates fit together to form an enclosure and include a pair of sidewalls, each having an aperture. A tubular member is insertable through the apertures and has retaining means at both ends thereof so as to hold the set of plates together and thereby form the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: James Emter
  • Patent number: 6672304
    Abstract: A device for use with metered dose inhalers includes a housing configured with a void to receive a metered dose inhaler, an actuator assembly which is configured to selectively apply force to the metered dose inhaler to cause the metered dose inhaler to release medicament, and a cocking mechanism for placing the actuator assembly in an armed configuration. The device is configured to actuate the metered dose inhaler as the user inhales, thereby ensuring improved medicament delivery. Additionally, the device is configured to prevent the metered dose inhaler from remaining in a vented position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Innovative Devices, LLC
    Inventors: Robert A. Casper, Frank A. Leith, David L. Gardner
  • Patent number: 6672305
    Abstract: A blind intubation guide (10) includes a guide wall (42), which aims an orotracheal tube (120) into the laryngeal opening (230), the guide wall (42) being pivotally mounted to an aft member (16) of the guide (10) to accommodate throats (202) of variable shallowness. The guide (10) may also include a flexible spout (100).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Parker Medical Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Jeffrey D. Parker
  • Patent number: 6672306
    Abstract: An arrangement for supplying a medical apparatus with anesthetic is so improved that, when changing the anesthetic supply vessel (1), the new anesthetic is made available directly and, when there is a malfunction of an anesthetic metering device (2), an exchange is possible in a simple manner. The arrangement includes a supply vessel (1) for the liquid anesthetic (6), a metering device (2) for liquid anesthetic and a pin-and-socket connection (15) between the metering component (2) and a vessel receptacle (3) of a medical apparatus (4). The metering component (2) is electrically drivable and is connected to the supply vessel (1) so as to form a modular unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Dräger Medical AG & Co. KGaA
    Inventors: Ralf-Ernst Löser, Michael Rehfeldt
  • Patent number: 6672307
    Abstract: A mask and harness system for use in providing breathing oxygen and protection from pollutants for the eyes and respiratory system as might be encountered in high altitude aviation environments. In one preferred embodiment, the mask system has a face seal, a soft flexible lens, a pneumatically-actuated harness, and a regulator with microphone to control the flow of oxygen and to facilitate communications in aircraft flight decks and other aircraft compartments. The system is designed for required five-second donning with one hand and because of the flexible lens, is capable of storage in the relatively preferred on crowded flight decks. It is connected to an oxygen source and, optionally, with aircraft communications. The regulator controls the flow rate of oxygen to the wearer based on altitude and physiological requirements. The regulator includes a valve for purging the condensation-prone moist gases from the lens area and provides positive pressure in the mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: BE Intellectual Property, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas K. McDonald, Gary R. Hannah, Randy G. Stratman, Gregory R. Jones
  • Patent number: 6672308
    Abstract: A control assembly for guiding the placement of an endotracheal tube during the intubation of a patient comprising a flexible stylet comprising a first magnet distally disposed on the stylet and an alignment fixture comprising a second magnet and adapted for positioning the second magnet over the cricothyroid cartilage of the patient to be intubated and retaining the second magnet in position over the cricothyroid cartilage of the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: JNC Medical, LLC
    Inventor: Romolo J. Gaspari
  • Patent number: 6672309
    Abstract: A condom includes a flexible tubular body having an open and a closed end, an outer surface and a smooth inner surface. The tubular body is formed of thin homogenous elastomeric material having a generally constant diameter from its open to its closed end to define a longitudinally extending chamber. The tubular body also includes a plurality of outwardly extending flexible lash-like projections extending from the outer surface of the tubular body and fixed to a tubular body along one side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Sami Al-Salem
  • Patent number: 6672310
    Abstract: A prisoner activated restraining device which is activated when the wrists of a prisoner are placed in channels of the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Ramage Streeter, John W. Boothman
  • Patent number: 6672311
    Abstract: This device is used for compressing the abdominal wall and colon during colonoscopy so as to facilitate the colonoscopy exam. A vest including inflatable bladders is wrapped around a patient. The bladders are inflated to apply pressure to the patient's abdomen. Particularly, the bladders may apply pressure to the sigmoid, descending and ascending the colon of the patient to aid in a colonoscopy. The bladders may be selectively inflated, and deflated, in order to apply any desired amount of pressure to aid the doctor performing a colonoscopy examination. The bladders are enclosed between two layers of plastic to form the vest. The vest is inserted into a pillowcase-type slip, which is disposable. The vest is secured about the patient by such conventional connectors as hook and loop fasteners, located at the opposing ends of the vest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Burton Rindfleish
  • Patent number: 6672312
    Abstract: A method of treating cardiac arrhythmias by ablating a portion of the myocardial fibers within a pulmonary vein. Myocardial fibers within a pulmonary vein are located and ablated to block conduction of electrical signals to the heart from ectopic foci within the pulmonary vein. The myocardial fibers are located and selectively ablated so as to avoid having to create a circumferential conduction block around the pulmonary vein or ostium. Devices for locating the myocardial fibers, selectively ablating such fibers, and directing ablative energy, are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Transurgical, Inc.
    Inventor: David E. Acker
  • Patent number: 6672313
    Abstract: A misting styling brush is provided for use with pressurized and non-pressurized cylindrical aerosol sprayers. The misting styling brush includes a handle similar to that of a standard cylindrical hair brush but having a longitudinal interior chamber disposed therein. The aerosol sprayer fits within the handle with an end cap retaining the aerosol sprayer from longitudinal movement once admitted therein. A trigger assembly slides the aerosol sprayer toward the restrained end cap to actuate the pump of the aerosol sprayer to spray a liquid contained therein through a lateral spray hole through the handle. A plurality of interchangeable cylindrical brush assemblies of various outer bristle diameters each include a plurality of bristle groups that extend outwardly from a tubular bristle support member which slides over a brushing portion of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Anthony Battaglia, Allen E. Edwards, Elissa L. Edwards
  • Patent number: 6672314
    Abstract: An applicator for applying a product to at least one of hair and a scalp is provided. The applicator may comprise a body configured to be associated with a reservoir, a base and at least two application teeth extending from the base. Each of the application teeth may comprise a free end including a dispensing orifice and a conveying duct. The teeth may have a first end at the dispensing orifice and a second end intended to be placed in flow communication with the reservoir. An elastically deformable coupling may be provided between the base and the body, the elastically deformable coupling may be configured to allow relative movement of the base with respect to the body in response to at least one of axial force applied to at least one of the teeth, and lateral force applied to at least one of the teeth. The applicator may be used to apply a product the hair or scalp. This applicator may be used to apply hair dye, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: L'Oreal S.A.
    Inventor: Sophie Hélène Vayrette
  • Patent number: 6672315
    Abstract: A brush includes a self-contained ion generator that subjects material being brushed to an outflow of ionized air containing safe amounts of ozone. The ion generator includes a high voltage pulse generator whose output pulses are coupled between first and second electrode arrays. Preferably the first array comprises at least one metal pin spaced coaxially-apart from a metal ring-like structure. Alternatively, the first array may comprise one or more wire electrodes spaced staggeringly apart from a second array comprising hollow “U”-shaped electrodes. Preferably a ratio between effective area of an electrode in the second array compared to effective area of an electrode in the first array exceeds about 15:1 and preferably is about 20:1. An electric field produced by the high voltage pulses between the arrays produces an electrostatic flow of ionized air containing safe amounts of ozone. The outflow of ionized air and ozone is directed between the brush bristles onto the material being brushed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Sharper Image Corporation
    Inventors: Charles E. Taylor, Shek Fai Lau
  • Patent number: 6672316
    Abstract: A cleaning element, in particular for cleaning teeth, comprises a flexible thread-like endless carrier, wherein at least sections thereof comprise radially protruding structured elements. To ensure reliable but gentle cleaning of the tooth surfaces, the structured elements are made from an elastomeric plastic which is preferably injection molded onto the endless carrier. A plurality of support bodies made from this elastomeric plastic can be provided on the endless carrier, spaced apart from one another, the outer surfaces of which bear the structured elements in the form of radially projecting nubs, bristles or ribs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Coronet-Werke GmbH
    Inventor: Georg Weihrauch
  • Patent number: 6672317
    Abstract: This invention relates to a cleaning device for rotationally symmetrical bodies, in particular for vehicle wheel rims with or without tires. Said device is designed for mechanical cleaning, using a moving cleaning fluid in a cleaning bath (20). The cleaning bath (20) has at least one vibrator (34 to 37) which places a cleaning fluid in a state of turbulence in the ultrasound region. A heater (38) is also provided in order to heat the cleaning fluid and is located in the cleaning unit. A holder (30) is arranged in the cleaning unit in order to accommodate a receiving device which can e swiveled inwards or swiveled outwards and which is designed to hold the rotationally symmetrical body that is to e cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Beissbarth GmbH
    Inventor: Oliver Wohlgemuth
  • Patent number: 6672318
    Abstract: Provided is a wafer rotary holding apparatus by which a reduced pressure is created on an upper surface of a rotary disk by a simple and easy-to-make mechanism with no need of any of a vacuum source apparatus, a compressed air supply apparatus, a compressed gas supply apparatus and other apparatuses in use; a wafer can be held while rotating with no contact to a rear surface thereof; a degree of pressure reduction can be adjusted with ease and even a thin wafer (of 0.1 mm or less in thickness) can be held while rotating with no deformation; and the wafer with a bowing can be held while rotating with no correction of the bowing. A wafer rotary holding apparatus includes: a rotary disk on which a fluid flow path is formed; a through hole formed in a central section of the rotary disk; and a plurality of wafer rests provided on an upper surface of the rotary disk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Mimasu Semiconductor Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masato Tsuchiya, Shunichi Ogasawara, Hideyuki Murooka
  • Patent number: 6672319
    Abstract: The invention relates to a diffuser for wet processing systems involved in the manufacturing of semiconductor wafers. The diffuser includes a plenum section and a slitted section. Pressurized fluid from the plenum section is forced through the slitted section and across a plurality of wafers mounted in the wet processing system. One advantage is that by “diffusing” pressurized fluid through the slitted section, a generally uniform and/or laminar flow is achieved. Desirably, the diffuser provides a more reliable, and hence more cost-effective, technology for wet processing fabrication of semiconductor wafers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: L. Brian Dunn
  • Patent number: 6672320
    Abstract: A drum washer has a base, a barrel support structure, and a water delivery system. A hollow drum is turned over and placed on the drum washer by inserting a spray head of the water delivery system through a hole in a top cover of the drum and into the interior of the drum. The barrel support structure holds the drum at a fixed angle while water is sprayed from the spray head onto interior surfaces of the drum. The water rinses the interior surfaces of the drum and drains out the hole in the top cover of the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: LSI Logic Corporation
    Inventor: Don Rudolfs
  • Patent number: 6672321
    Abstract: A walker for providing a patient having a breathing disorder the ability to carry an oxygen bottle safely upon the walker. The walker has a pair of side frames having front vertical bars that are connected by a pair of cross members. Wheels are attached to the front bars of the frame for propelling the walker. An open top canvas bag containing the oxygen bottle is suspended from the top cross member so that the center of gravity of the bottle lies in a common vertical plane with the wheel axis and is centered between the frames. Stabilizers are provided to prevent the bottle from moving side to side or out of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Roger H. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 6672322
    Abstract: A screen assembly for storing wild game meat comprising: a mesh cylinder fabricated of mesh material and having an open upper end; and a top section fabricated of waterproof material and affixed over the upper end of the mesh cylinder, a locking clip having a cable extending therefrom and through the upper section, the cable being fixed relative to the upper section, the clip adapted to be coupled around a tree limb in an operative orientation, the cable having a lower end including a hook for hanging wild game meat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Mark H. Littlefield
  • Patent number: 6672323
    Abstract: The self-erecting structure has resilient lower and upper support loops which provide it with shape and support. Fabric covers the support loops, and is permanently affixed to the support loops. The fabric has a lower, waterproof portion and an upper insect protection portion. The fabric is preferably treated to provide it with insect repellent and insecticide properties. The support loops are made of flexible, resilient rods made of a material, such as a vinylester and fiberglass combination having a diameter selected to enable the support loops to be folded into six loops, whereby the structure can be compactly stored in a rucksack. The method of folding the structure so that it can be stored in such a compact space is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Raj Kumar Gupta, Young Woo Yoon
  • Patent number: 6672324
    Abstract: A branched pipe (5) is manufactured by continuous extrusion in such a manner that a manifold (5a) of a branched pipe (5) is manufactured by extruding plastic material into the space defined by moving chill moulds (1, 2) and a mandrel (10) arranged therein with an extruder (4). The manifold (5a) is provided with branch pipes (5b) simultaneously with the extrusion thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Uponor Innovation AB
    Inventor: Jyri Järvenkylä
  • Patent number: 6672325
    Abstract: An actuator assembly and method for making and using an actuator assembly. In one embodiment, the assembly includes an actuator body having an actuator channel with a first region and a second region. An actuator is disposed in the actuator channel and is movable when in a flowable state between a first position and a second position. A heater is positioned proximate to the actuator channel to heat the actuator from a solid state to a flowable state. A source of gas or other propellant is positioned proximate to the actuator channel to drive the actuator from the first position to the second position. The actuator has a higher surface tension when engaged with the second region of the channel than when engaged with the first region. Accordingly, the actuator can halt upon reaching the second region of the channel due to the increased surface tension between the actuator and the second region of the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Jerome M. Eldridge
  • Patent number: 6672326
    Abstract: A valve unit for controlling the delivery of a combustible gas through a gas path comprises a first valve seat in the gas path and a first closure means associated with the seat, a first actuator means for the control of the closure means for opening and closing of the valve seat and also motor means for the operating control of the first actuator means. The unit further comprises a second electromagnetic actuator means interposed between the closure means and the first actuator means to urge the closure means so as to close the valve seat, independently of the operating position of the first actuator means, when a predetermined condition occurs which requires the interception of the valve seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Sit la Precisa S.p.A.
    Inventors: Salvatore Pappalardo, Giuseppe Veronese
  • Patent number: 6672327
    Abstract: A valve assembly with an automatic check valve feature and automatic disassembly feature. The valve assembly includes an actuating mechanism which keeps the valve gates open, establishing fluid communication. The fluid checking feature operates when the valve assembly is disassembled. When the valve assembly disassembles, the check valves automatically close. The valve assembly can be disassembled manually or automatically. The automatic disassembly feature includes a collar and breakable link assembly, which keep the valve assembly in sealing engagement. Upon a predetermined force, the breakable link assembly fails, releasing the collar from the valve assembly and effecting disassembly of the valve assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hiltap Fittings, Ltd.
    Inventor: Lee A Krywitsky
  • Patent number: 6672328
    Abstract: A remote pressure-controlled three-way valve device has a plunger axially traversed by an inlet passage normally closed by a spring-urged inlet valve. The plunger's outer sidewall has a recess in which an O-ring extends to abut against the steps of the recess to limit the plunger stroke and keep an outlet passage closed to a venting port formed in the sidewall of the body of the device. O-ring prevents short-circuits between the inlet passage and the vent port and a spring for counteracting friction between the O-ring and the device inner wall. Filters arranged in respective ports connectable to the input air-pressure supply and the tire inner tube provide fixed seats for the springs to bear on. The plunger may dwell in a stable intermediate position that opens the outlet or deflation passage is controlled by sending an air pressure through the inlet port at 50% of the normal pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Col-Ven S.A.
    Inventors: Rafael A. Colussi, Néstor J. Vénica
  • Patent number: 6672329
    Abstract: An in-wall retractable water hose assembly for retracting and storing a water hose, having a housing located within a dwelling and an insulated front access door for providing access to the hose from outside the dwelling. A reel assembly is mounted within the housing on which the water hose is spooled, and a motor connected to the reel assembly effects rotation of the reel. A power box is positioned within the housing and has a power switch in communication with the motor. A movable casing is mounted on the reel assembly, the casing having a channel for accommodating the water hose. Movement of the casing along the reel assembly determines the positioning of the hose and maintains an even distribution of the hose along the reel. A stabilizing bar prevents wobbling of the casing during retraction of the water hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Rodney Brooks, Robert Murphey
  • Patent number: 6672330
    Abstract: A valve is characterized by excellent corrosion and wear resistance and maintainability due to use of a bonding corrosion and wear proof alloy containing non-continuously distributed eutectic carbide on the sliding portions of various types of apparatuses and valves by diffusion bonding. This serves to improve the maintainability of a thermal and nuclear power plant and to provide a nuclear power plant using recirculating water, which ensures excellent working safety, in particular. The corrosion and wear proof alloy is characterized in that network-formed eutectic carbide in the alloy containing the cast structure base metal and eutectic carbide is formed into(multiple) granules or lumps having a particle size of 30 microns or less so that said eutectic carbide is non-continuously distributed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuo Chigasaki, Shizuo Matsushita, Jiro Kuniya, Yoshihisa Kiyotoki, Takahiko Kato, Yoshiteru Chiba
  • Patent number: 6672331
    Abstract: A pressure regulator having a base and a bonnet. The base includes a plurality of upstanding ridges, with an opening being defined between each of the ridges. The bonnet includes a peripheral rim having a plurality of engagement tabs located within each of the openings defined by the ridges of the base. The base is connected to the bonnet by folding the ridges over the peripheral rim of the bonnet. The ridges include side surfaces that mate with side edges of the engagement tabs to maintain the peripheral rim of the bonnet against the ridges as tension is applied to the peripheral rim that forces the peripheral rim away from the ridges. The bonnet also includes a plurality of interference tabs that engage an interior surface of the ridges before the ridges are folded over the peripheral rim of the bonnet to maintain the bonnet in proper position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: S. H. Leggitt Company
    Inventors: Paul W. Heald, Christopher G. Turney
  • Patent number: 6672332
    Abstract: An adjustable pressure regulator for controlling the delivery of a gas from a high pressure source to a lower pressure device at a predetermined pressure is provided. A piston, spring and insert work with pressurized gas to open and close the pressure regulator, allowing or interdicting the flow of gas. In an open state, the spring forces the piston away from the insert allowing pressurized gas to flow into the system. Downstream back pressure, against the piston, overcomes the force of the spring and forces the regulator to close at a predetermined gas pressure. Regulator closing pressure is determined by the biasing force of the spring and distance between the piston and insert. The position of the insert, relative to the piston, is adjustable such that the distance is increased or decreased resulting in the concomitant increase or decrease of pressure to the downstream device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Hose Shop, Ltd.
    Inventor: Kent Carroll
  • Patent number: 6672333
    Abstract: A vacuum demand valve for delivering a flowable material is disclosed. The valve has a housing having a proximal end, a distal end, an intermediate segment therebetween defining a passageway wherein the flowable substance can flow from the proximal end to the distal end. The housing can be a tubing. A valve member is located along the intermediate segment. The valve member has a closed condition wherein the flow of the flowable material from the proximal end to the distal end is stopped and an open condition wherein the flow of the flowable material from the proximal end to the distal end is unstopped. The valve member is biased in the closed condition and is responsive to a partial vacuum provided by the user through the passageway for placing the valve member in the open condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Williamson, Scott R. Ariagno, Alan W. Marttila, Arnold C. Bilstad, Paul M. DiPerna, Michael R. Prisco, David W. Pennington, Atif M. Yardimci, Sidney T. Smith, Mark C. Perry, Marc Bellotti
  • Patent number: 6672334
    Abstract: A multi-diaphragm flow control valve includes a valve body separable into two parts. Each part includes an interior chamber having a closed end which separates the chambers when the parts are joined and an open end for connection to a pipe. An outer chamber surrounds a portion of the interior chamber and is separated therefrom by an interior wall. Slots connect the interior and outer chambers. The outer chambers connect to form a diaphgram chamber when the parts are joined. A cylindrical bell type elastomeric diaphragm having a central outwardly extending hump and with legs extending axially from opposite sides of the hump is positioned in the diaphragm chamber with the respective legs of the diaphragm over the slots through the interior walls of respective parts. The diaphragm is pressurized to block or allow flow through respective slots and each leg of the diaphragm acts as an independent diaphragm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Ajit Singh Gill
  • Patent number: 6672335
    Abstract: An automated dump sand separator control system for controlling a three-way pneumatic dump valve of a well sand separator. The system controls a three-way pneumatic dump valve which is attached to a sand separator for dumping material from a well pumping system. A first timer is used for controlling the time intervals between dumping cycles. A second timer is connected to the first timer and controls the time duration for each cycle. The first timer activates the second timer. Each cycle opens and closes the pneumatic normally closed two-way valve by a three-way solenoid valve. The first and second timer are powered by a rechargeable battery that is kept charged by a solar panel that has a shunt regulator for dropping the voltage from the solar panel. The solar panel is mounted on a vertical support member through a pair of adjustable support arms for adjusting the angle of solar panel to the sun.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventor: Kyle N. Welborn
  • Patent number: 6672336
    Abstract: A multi-function, random access, dual, three-way valve for use with fluid switching and the like is provided, whereby a first fluid flow to the valve is selectively placed in fluid communication with a first or a second outlet passage from the valve for selectively transferring the first fluid flow and a second fluid flow to the valve is, independent of the flow path of the first fluid, selectively placed in fluid communication with a third or a fourth outlet from the valve for simultaneously transferring the second fluid flow. A rotor element rotatably movable relative to a stationary stator element to at least four discrete angular positions actuates to multi-function switching capabilities of the valve when the rotor element is selectively placed in one of the at least four discrete positions. The valve directs the first fluid flow to one of two alternate outlet passages and, simultaneously and independently, directs the second fluid flow to one of at least two different outlet passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Rheodyne, LP
    Inventor: Jon A. Nichols
  • Patent number: 6672337
    Abstract: An in-line type fluid hammer prevention device capable of maintaining pressure energy conversion efficiency of elastic cushion for a long time by improving fluid sealing tightness against an elastic cushion by elastic cylindrical diaphragm, wherein an inlet cylindrical connecting body (1) and an outlet connecting body (3) are connected at an intermediate position of fluid channel (R) of a piping system in series, and both ends of a sleeve (5) is positioned between center through-holes (1C, 3C), and a cylindrical diaphragm (7) is placed around the outer periphery side of small holes (5E) provided on the wall of the sleeve (5), and inward lip portions (7A, 7B) at the both ends of the cylindrical diaphragm (7) are pressed and supported by the protrusive flanges (5C, 5D) and the recessed seats (1D, 3D), and an elastic cushion (8) is placed outside the cylindrical diaphragm (7) around the outer periphery side of the small holes (5E) of the sleeve (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Suzuki Sogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tatsuya Kobayashi, Eiji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 6672338
    Abstract: An active slender tube as implemented as a catheter, guide wire, or any other medical or non-medical micro-mechanical or -system or system's active micro-component is disclosed that has a simple structure which facilitates the active slender tube to be reduced in diameter and with the capability of being multi-functionalized. The slender tube is provided in its distal, active end portion in the form of “J” with a bending, a torsionally rotating, an extending and retracting and/or a stiffness control mechanism. These mechanisms are adapted to bend, torsionally rotate, extend/retract and adjust stiffness of, the active end portion, respectively, with precision. Each mechanism comprises an outer skeleton including a liner coil spring, and an SMA (shape memory alloy) made coil actuator disposed inside of the liner coil coaxially therewith and fastened thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Inventors: Masayoshi Esashi, Yoichi Haga
  • Patent number: 6672339
    Abstract: A fabric for use in an air bag is provided. The fabric of the invention is produced by mechanically compressing a preliminary fabric constructed substantially of synthetic yarn such that the packed volume per unit area of the compressed fabric is less than the packed volume per unit area of the preliminary fabric. Air permeability is not adversely affected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: Milliken & Company
    Inventors: Ramesh Keshavaraj, Michael D. Hurst
  • Patent number: 6672340
    Abstract: A method for filling a vehicle fuel tank with a gas is provided, in which the vehicle fuel tank (31) is connected to a delivery device (2) by a pressure-tight line (10) and the gas stored under pressure is filled into the vehicle fuel tank (31) from a storage unit (3) by means of the delivery device (2). The method comprises the following steps: the instantaneous value of a parameter, which is representative of the instantaneous level of filling of the vehicle fuel tank (31), is determined during filling with the aid of a sensor apparatus (32, 33) arranged in the vehicle fuel tank (31) the filling is ended when the parameter has reached a pre-settable end value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: GreenField AG
    Inventor: Heinz Mutter
  • Patent number: 6672341
    Abstract: Improved custom cosmetic formulation dispensing system including ingredients reservoirs for syringe dispensing. The ingredients reservoirs are carried by a translatable carrier to bring the respective reservoirs into dispensing alignment with a package, into which a preselected amount of the ingredient is dispensed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2004
    Assignee: IMX Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: Julie R. Bartholomew, Richard T. Jobe, Thomas C. Bodiker II, Timothy E. O'Meara, Dave Hanselman, Jim Foley