Patents Issued in January 6, 2004
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Patent number: 6672945Abstract: A abstract polishing apparatus has a substrate carrier a substrate and an abrasive member having a polishing surface. The surface is slidingly engaged with the substrate in order to effect polishing. The dressing device includes a light source when generating light rays for irradiating the polishing surface of the abrasive member, whereby dressing the polishing surface. A temperature control system control the temperature of the polishing surface of the abrasive member by sensing the temperature of the polishing surface with the temperature sensor. Mechanical dressing of the polishing surface, in addition to dressing by radiation of the polishing surface, may also be employed in order to flatten the entire polishing surface. The abrasive member preferably includes an abrasive particles, a binder and a photophilic for promoting the dressing of the polishing surface by light rays.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2000Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Ebara CorporationInventors: Hisanori Matsuo, Hirokuni Hiyama, Yutaka Wada, Kazuto Hirokawa
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Patent number: 6672946Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for planarizing a microelectronic-device substrate assembly on a planarizing pad. In one aspect of the invention, material is removed from the substrate assembly by pressing the substrate assembly against a planarizing surface of a planarizing pad and moving the substrate assembly across the planarizing surface through a planarizing zone. The method also includes replacing at least a portion of a used volume of planarizing solution on the planarizing surface with fresh planarizing solution during the planarization cycle of a single substrate assembly. The used planarizing solution can be replaced with fresh planarizing solution by actively removing the used planarizing solution from the pad with a removing unit and depositing fresh planarizing solution onto the pad in the planarizing zone.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Dinesh Chopra, Scott G. Meikle
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Patent number: 6672947Abstract: A reliable, inexpensive “back side” thinning process, capable of globally thinning an integrated circuit die to a target thickness of 10 microns, and maintaining a yield of at least 80%, for chip repair and/or failure analysis of the packaged die. The flip-chip packaged die is exposed at its backside and mounted on a lapping machine with the backside exposed. The thickness of the die is measured at at least five locations on the die. The lapping machine grinds the exposed surface of the die to a thickness somewhat greater than the target thickness. The exposed surface of the die is polished. The thickness of the die is again measured optically with high accuracy. Based on the thickness data collected, appropriate machine operating parameters for further grinding and polishing of the exposed surface are determined. Further grinding and polishing are performed. These steps are repeated until the target thickness is reached.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: NPTEST, LLCInventors: Chun-Cheng Tsao, John Valliant
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Patent number: 6672948Abstract: A grinding water tank apparatus includes a tank for storing grinding water to be used for machining a peripheral edge of an eyeglass lens and recycles the grinding water stored in the tank by circulation. The apparatus further includes an air filter provided at a position in a space higher than the water surface of the grinding water in the tank, and a suction unit for drawing bubbles developing in the tank by way of the air filter.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Nidek Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toshiaki Mizuno
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Patent number: 6672949Abstract: A chemical-mechanical polishing apparatus is provided with a downstream device for conditioning a web-shaped polishing pad. The device may be used to condition a glazed portion of the pad, and then the conditioned pad portion may be used again for polishing. The conditioning device is preferably arranged to apply different conditioning treatments to different portions of the glazed pad. The conditioning device may have roller segments that rotate at different speeds. Alternatively, the device may have non-cylindrical rollers that provide different rotational speeds at the pad surface, or the device may apply different pressures at different portions of the pad. The device may be arranged to provide uniform conditioning across the width of the pad. The invention is applicable to methods of planarizing semiconductor wafers. The invention may be used to condition circular pads in addition to web-shaped pads.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Dinesh Chopra, Scott E. Moore
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Patent number: 6672950Abstract: The present invention discloses a contamination prevention system and method of use having a contamination prevention shield that cooperates with a high pressure rinse apparatus to prevent contamination of particles within a CMP apparatus. The contamination prevention shield has a cleaning cup, two vertical side shields, a front vertical shield, and a floor that cooperate to prevent leakage of fluid splattered during a high pressure rinse of the CMP apparatus and an interior portion of a CMP apparatus housing; and a high pressure rinse apparatus connected to the contamination prevention shield having a conduit with at least one nozzle for dispensing cleaning fluid during a high pressure rinse cycle. Additionally, a plurality of contamination prevention shields may be used in combination with the high pressure rinse apparatus to further prevent contamination of an interior portion of the housing and the CMP apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., LtdInventors: Chih-I Peng, Wen-Ten Chen, Yu-Chia Chang, Yao-Hsiang Liang
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Patent number: 6672951Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are disclosed using a fixed abrasive polishing pad to perform mechanical polishing of a surface. The apparatus includes a polishing pad positioned opposing a wafer support to provide for polishing of a surface of a wafer placed on the support. The polishing pad includes a first member having a first polishing surface formed from an abrasive first material that is structurally degradable during polishing. The polishing pad also includes a second member having a second polishing surface formed from a second material that is less degradable and less abrasive relative to said first material. The first and second polishing surfaces define a polishing face that is brought into contact with the surface to be polished.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.Inventors: Michael A. Walker, Karl M. Robinson
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Patent number: 6672952Abstract: A tearable abrasive article is provided which includes a backing comprising a polymer film having a scrim partially embedded therein and an abrasive coating comprising a plurality of abrasive articles and a binder bonded to at least one side of the backing.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1998Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Craig A. Masmar, Jeffrey S. Peterson, Michael L. Teetzel
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Patent number: 6672953Abstract: A game skinner device having a winch and a roller deposed at opposite ends of a main support. The main support is adjustably secured to the hitch of a vehicle. The game skinner device does not support the weight of the game.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventors: Gary Lee Chappell, Katherine Marie Chappell
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Patent number: 6672954Abstract: A portable after market vehicle cabin ventilator provides a portable exhaust for a vehicle cabin, which utilizes the vehicle window for mounting and which promotes the quality of air within the vehicle cabin, without the need to open the windows in inclement cold or hot weather. The ventilator also optionally detects dangerous carbon monoxide fumes within a parked or moving vehicle. The ventilator of the present invention enhances the air quality of the vehicle interior by incorporating smoke and gas detectors, as well as one or more fans.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Julio Gabriel Shtanko
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Patent number: 6672955Abstract: An air flow management system for an Internet Data Center with rows of cabinets, the rows being located on an elevated floor and disposed in pairs wherein the front sides of the two rows face each other. Fresh air is supplied through the elevated floor in order to cool the heat generating elements, and collected after passing through the heat generating elements. The tops of the two front sides of the two rows in each pair of rows are joined by a cover so that the front sides and the cover constitute a tunnel. The volume of fresh air supplied through the elevated floor is controlled by openings whereby the static pressure in each tunnel can be controlled depending upon the heat generated.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventor: Frederic Charron
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Patent number: 6672956Abstract: A venting apparatus for chemical containers comprises a vent duct having a plurality of vent ports, a flow control mechanism, and a damper. A closure of a chemical container is coupled to one of the vent ports using suitable tubing, and a second coupling connects the chemical container to equipment that uses the contents of the container. A distal end of the vent duct is coupled to an exhaust fan. In this configuration, vapors evaporating from the contents of the chemical are safely exhausted outside a work facility. As a result, a chemical container that normally would be classified as Use-Open under applicable fire codes is converted to Use-Closed, effectively enabling the work facility to substantially increase the volume of chemicals that may be contained or used in the facility under the code, without requiring upgrade of existing facilities to Hazardous Occupancy standards, or building new facilities that qualify as Hazardous Occupancy and that can use Use-Open chemical containers.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Integrated Engineering ServicesInventor: Rizik Michael
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Patent number: 6672957Abstract: The cleaning apparatus of a combine harvester has an oscillating sieve assembly and an oscillating pan assembly beneath the sieve assembly. The sieve assembly comprises a pair of superimposed sieves, both of which are mounted on the same frame for oscillation in unison and always in the same direction. The pan assembly comprises a clean grain pan and a tailings return pan both mounted on a common frame that is separate from the frame of the sieve assembly so that the pans oscillate separately from the sieves. The sieve and pan assemblies are mounted and driven in such a manner that the feed stroke of each assembly is in the same direction as its direction of conveyance, so as to maximize their ability to deliver materials in the intended direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: AGCO CorporationInventors: Douglas A. Voss, Richard C. Eckrote, Robert Honas
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Patent number: 6672958Abstract: A poker style card game suitable for playing on a gaming machine. In the game an initial hand of cards is dealt and the player selects particular cards to be held in the hand. The game is characterised in that multiple new hands of held cards are then created wherein the held cards in each new hand are dependent on the held cards in the initial hand but are not identical to the held cards from the initial hand. Additional cards are then drawn to complete each of the hands, and prizes are paid for each hand according to a pay table.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia PTY LTDInventor: Nicholas Luke Bennett
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Patent number: 6672959Abstract: A starting hand of five cards is dealt and the player then plays this hand with a first pay table. If the player's starting hand of cards has a poker hand ranking of any preselected combination of cards, such as a Pair of Jacks, a Pair of Queens, a Pair of Kings or a Pair of Aces, the player is given the option of exchanging his starting hand for one or more different new partial hands, such as Three to a Royal Flush or multiple hands of a Pair of Aces. If the player accepts the offer to make the exchange, the different partial hand is displayed and then additional cards are dealt to complete a five card hand. If the final five card hand is one of the predetermined winning poker hand combinations, the player receives an award.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventors: Ernest W. Moody, Michael W. Wood
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Patent number: 6672960Abstract: The present invention relates to a gaming device and method including a covering feature. The gaming device and method includes a game using a plurality of video or virtual reels, or cards, or numbers. The device rearranges the reels, cards, or numbers, randomizing, alternating or rearranging the symbols, images, or numbers thereon, then displays the newly randomized or rearranged symbols, images, or numbers. Preferably, before the newly randomized or rearranged symbols are displayed, the gaming device obscures the reels, or cards, or numbers using a cover and provides certain movements including an exhibition, preferably related to the theme of the game. The cover is used to obscure the random event, while the exhibition entertains the player.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2000Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: IGTInventor: Janna B-Jensen
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Patent number: 6672961Abstract: An on-line multi-player virtual reality game is provided. Software is implemented to provide an improved level of detail from various points of view within the virtual reality environment.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.Inventor: William Roger Uzun
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Patent number: 6672962Abstract: The gun-shaped controller comprises a controller 1 in the shape of a gun and a trigger lever 7, and a cross-shaped directional key 9 to be operated with a player's finger is arranged in the upper part of a grip 4. By comprising the cross-shaped directional key 9, it is possible to move the character on the screen or the character's visual field with this cross-shaped directional key 9 in addition to the conventional action of shooting targets on the screen. Thus, the gun-shaped controller is compatible with roll-playing games and adventure games.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2000Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Sega EnterprisesInventors: Naoji Ozaki, Tomoyuki Sakurai, Yutaka Okumura, Junichiro Matsuura, Makio Kida, Masayuki Sumi, Akihito Hiroyoshi, Yutaka Yokoyama
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Patent number: 6672963Abstract: A software emulator for emulating a handheld video game platform such as GAME BOY®, GAME BOY COLOR® and/or GAME BOY ADVANCE® on a low-capability target platform (e.g., a seat-back display for airline or train use, a personal digital assistant, a cell phone) uses a number of features and optimizations to provide high quality graphics and sound that nearly duplicates the game playing experience on the native platform. Some exemplary features include use of bit BLITing, graphics character reformatting, modeling of a native platform liquid crystal display controller using a sequential state machine, and selective skipping of frame display updates if the game play falls behind what would occur on the native platform.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2000Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Patrick J. Link
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Patent number: 6672964Abstract: A video game wherein input of a candidate character intended to be the object of an action to be performed by a predetermined character is accepted in accordance with a control operation of a player. On the basis of position information pertaining to the characters, a direction is detected. In accordance with this direction, image-control is carried out so that a line of sight of the predetermined character points to the candidate character accepted as input. The input is accepted of an action to be performed by a predetermined character in accordance with a control operation of a player, the action accepted as input is distinguished. When the action has been executed, a direction is successively detected on the basis of position information on the predetermined character arising from internal processing and position information on a character to be the object of the action.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Square EnixInventor: Masaki Kobayashi
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Patent number: 6672965Abstract: A constant velocity fixed ball joint in the form of a counter track joint, having an outer joint part with outer tracks, an inner joint part with inner tracks, torque transmitting balls which are received in pairs of tracks consisting of outer tracks and inner tracks, and a ball cage with cage windows in which the balls are held in a common plane and are guided on to the angle-bisecting plane when the joint is articulated. First outer tracks, together with first inner tracks, form pairs of tracks whose control angles open in a first axial direction and in which first balls are held. Second outer tracks, together with second inner tracks, form pairs of tracks whose control angles open in a second axial direction and in which second balls are held. The control angles are defined as angles between the tangents at the ball contact points in the tracks. The outer joint part, on its inside, forms a stop-and-guiding face for a spherical outer face of the ball cage.Type: GrantFiled: November 30, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: GKN Automotive GmbHInventors: Wolfgang Hildebrandt, Stephan Maucher, Thomas Weckerling, Hans Wormsbächer
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Patent number: 6672966Abstract: A lower stress and higher service life curvic coupling design is disclosed for use on coupling mechanisms for assembly of components that comprise rotating elements, such as impellers, turbine wheels and couplings for gas turbine engines and other types of engines having highly stressed components. The curvic coupling design includes a compound fillet radius, comprised of a large and a small radius, located between the root and the pressure surface of all splined teeth on the torque transmitting coupling halves. The larger radius, with its lower stress concentration, is positioned in the root area where the background hoop stresses act, thereby resulting in a lower fillet peak stress value. The smaller radius smoothly connects the larger radius with the pressure surface, minimizing the penetration of the fillet surface towards the mating tooth, thereby allowing proper clearances to be maintained.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Sandeep Muju, Robert S. Sandoval
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Patent number: 6672967Abstract: A connection between two shafts, the shafts can be faced in different directions. Each shaft having a first fork at one end for hingedly joining the respective shaft to a second fork. The second forks are mechanically joined to each other by an axial displacement device comprising a first bearing plate formed integrally to one of the second forks; an intermediate plate, having a plurality of through bores and a central column extending therefrom having a distal end for receiving a remaining second fork; and a second bearing plate, having a central bore for receiving the central column therethrough. A plurality of guiding and support columns extend from the first bearing plate, pass through to the through bores of the through bores of the intermediate plate to the second bearing plate connecting the first and second plates together. The intermediate plate can slide along the guiding and fastening shafts.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Melchor Daumal Castellon
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Patent number: 6672968Abstract: A modular skate park system comprising one or more platform portions, and one or more ramp members. The ramp members are connectable to the platform portions, and the platform portions can be connected to one another along their edges to accomplish an enlarged platform with one or more ramps providing access to the platform.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Compass Outdoor Products, Inc.Inventor: Robert Montolio
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Patent number: 6672969Abstract: An automatic mechanical golf ball feed apparatus 10 is provided, including a hopper 12 for housing a plurality of golf balls 14, and a gravity driven delivery arm 18 including a counterweight end 22 and a ball delivery end 20, the gravity driven delivery arm 18 being rotatably movable between a loaded position 28 and a delivery position 30. The present invention further includes a delivery chamber 24 positioned on the ball delivery end 20 of the gravity driven delivery arm 18. The gravity driven delivery arm 18 is biased towards the delivery position 30 when a golf ball 14 is present in the delivery chamber 24 and biased towards the loaded position 28 when the delivery chamber 24 is empty. The present invention includes a baseline pivot arm 32 including a tee end 34, with the golf tee 38, and a lock end 36. The baseline pivot arm 32 is movable between a ball weighted position 44 and a ball free position 46.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Chong Dae Lee
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Patent number: 6672970Abstract: Multiple molded polymeric panels are mechanically fastened together in a lengthwise configuration with a backboard at one end opposite the starting position for a putting stroke. Each panel has a planar top surface and a bottom integral grid supporting structure. The side edges of the panels are raised and the panels are attached together end to end. A simulated grass overlies the joined panels and a receptacle for receiving a golf ball is provided in one panel. A first carrying case contains the panels and backboard and a second carrying case contains the simulated grass and simulated flag stick.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: David R. Barlow
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Patent number: 6672971Abstract: Multiple molded polymeric units are joined together by side mounted fastening mechanisms. Each polymeric unit is molded as an integral structure with a smooth contoured top surface and a bottom grid like portion. Each polymeric unit has two side walls containing slots for mounting the fastening mechanism. A third side wall joining the two walls is a raised rolled edge higher than the top surface. The polymeric unit has a receptacle for receipt of a golf cup and a water drain hole. A simulated grass layer overlays the smooth top surface of the joined polymeric units.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: David R. Barlow
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Patent number: 6672972Abstract: A small laser pointer is connected to a gripping member by a free-swinging connection member so that when the gripping member is attached to a golfer's cap, golf visor or sunglasses, the laser pointer plumbs straight down under the influence of the gravitational force. Because of the free-swinging connection member, the laser pointer can swing as a pendulum through the full 360° of motion in a horizontal plane. The point of light that is projected by the laser pointer onto the ground provides the golfer with instant feed back if the golfer's head moves during the putting stroke, as the point of light created by the laser will also move when the head moves. The point of light from the laser also provides a point of reference that allows the golfer to set the golfer's eyes directly over the ball. At this location, the golfer is ensured of seeing the line of the putt better and is able to line up the putter head more precisely.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Robert Allen Stone
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Patent number: 6672973Abstract: A golfer training device (50) is disclosed. The device (50) includes a first strap (52) which is fastened around a golfer's leg above the knee (36). A second strap (14) is fastened just above the ankle (38) and below the calf muscle of the same leg. A third strap (16) is joined to and interconnects both the first and second straps (52, 14), and runs vertically up behind the leg to a type of quick-release adjusting clasp (70). All three straps are made of a substantially inextensible, flexible material. The length of the third strap (16) can be shortened by pulling on an adjusting strap (30), thereby causing the leg to bend at the knee (36). A tube (64) behind the golfer's knee (36) ensures that there is also a horizontal pull on strap (52), which helps to securely hold strap (52) in place and prevent it from slipping down the leg.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Stellar Promotions Pty LtdInventor: Michael Cornelis Muntz
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Patent number: 6672974Abstract: A practice putting device, adapted for use with a golf putter club having a putter blade, a shaft and a handle, is provided for guiding the blade of the club on a straight line through the putting stroke. The device comprises a clamp means for holding the shaft of the putter club and a carriage having first and second arms pivotally mounted to the clamp means in a horizontal plane for upward and downward arc pivotable movement of the arms. The device is used with an elongated planar board wherein the board is positioned on the putting surface. The shaft of the putter is secured in the clamping means and the carriage (and arms) of the putting device are adjusted so that they are substantially transverse to the plane of the board. When the putter head is moved to strike the ball, the putter blade is moved transverse to the golf ball as the putter head is moved back and forth with the arms of the device in contact with the board.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: TST & Associates, LLCInventors: Joseph J. Tartagni, Paul Schmid
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Patent number: 6672975Abstract: A golf club head (20) having a body (22), a striking plate (24) and a frame (26) is disclosed herein. The body (22) is preferably composed of a low-density material. The frame (26) has a plurality of arms (42a-d) for attachment to the striking plate (24). The golf club head (20) preferably has a volume between 300 cubic centimeters and 500 cubic centimeters. The golf club head (20) preferably has a mass between 105 grams and 300 grams.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventor: J. Andrew Galloway
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Patent number: 6672976Abstract: A golf ball includes a core and a multi-layer cover. The golf ball satisfies the following conditions (1) to (5): (1) the number of dimples is 360 to 492; (2) total volume enclosed by the dimples as expressed as a percentage of the volume of the golf ball, VR, is 0.715% to 0.825%; (3) total surface area of the dimples as expressed as a percentage of the surface area of the golf ball, SR, is not less than 70%; (4) value obtained through subtraction of the JIS C hardness of the surface portion of the core from the average JIS C hardness of the cover is 0 to 20; and (5) initial velocity is in excess of 77.7 m/s (255 ft/s).Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hideo Watanabe
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Patent number: 6672977Abstract: A multi-functional golf accessory includes an elongated shaft, a handle attached to an upper end portion of the shaft, a ball teeing mechanism mounted to a lower end portion of the shaft, a trigger mounted to the handle, a motion transmitting rod extending through the shaft and coupling the handle with a pair of pivotal arms of the ball teeing mechanism for operating the arms for placing and releasing a ball and tee in a teed position on the ground, a tee height setting device and a ball retrieving device mounted on opposite sides of a housing of the ball teeing mechanism, a lying tee retrieving device and a standing tee retrieving device mounted to the ball retrieving device, and a quiver element removably storing a ball marking element mounted to the shaft.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventors: Kenneth G. Colbo, Marvin L. Zsupnik
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Patent number: 6672978Abstract: A method for interactively determining an optimal golf ball for a golfer comprising the steps of determining the golfer's current golf ball and whether the golf ball meets the golfer's critical playing characteristics; iteratively prioritizing the golfer's golf ball performance characteristics to form prioritized critical playing characteristics; and selecting a second golf ball from a set of golf balls that best matches the golfer's prioritized critical playing characteristics.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2000Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Acushnet CompanyInventors: William E. Morgan, Mary Lou Bohn, Edmund A. Hebert
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Patent number: 6672979Abstract: A device for practicing striking a standard sports ball that also has means to be held, particularly by magnetic or magnet-attractable materials located beneath the ballcover and not exposed to the atmosphere. The ball is usually retained on a minor portion of the upper 75 percent (relative to vertical) of the outer surface of the suspended ball so that its propelled trajectory and the striker's path are essentially not hindered before, during and after the strike and release against gravity and released upon sufficient impact. A ball contains means for both retaining and releasing itself from a mating pivotable, attachment arm that is generally downwardly supported to allow the ball to be suspended above the ground, be struck, released and propelled in a preferred downward trajectory, e.g. a volleyball spike.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 1999Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Scott Michael Brenneisen
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Patent number: 6672980Abstract: A portable hockey or soccer goal that can be readily converted between a fully open configuration and a fully closed storage or transport configuration without requiring any assembly or disassembly and having a rear and side stabilizing assembly such that the goal has improved strength while still being collapsible into a compact carrying bag.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Robert J. Walsh
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Patent number: 6672981Abstract: A shift control apparatus for controlling a continuously variable transmission device including a continuously variable transmission mechanism having rotary elements and operable to transmit a rotary motion of a drive power source of an automotive vehicle to a drive wheel of the automotive vehicle, such that a speed ratio of said mechanism is continuously variable, the shift control apparatus includes a power-transmission-state determining device for determining whether the mechanism is placed in a non-power-transmitting state, a speed-ratio determining device for determining whether the mechanism is placed in a lowest-speed position, a rotation-stop detecting device for determining whether the rotary elements are at rest, and a compulsory-speed-ratio-change implementing device for effecting a compulsory shift-down action of the mechanism toward the lowest-speed position when the mechanism is placed in the non-power-transmitting state while the mechanism is not placed in the lowest-speed position and while thType: GrantFiled: November 19, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Daisuke Inoue, Masami Sugaya, Hideki Yasue, Kunio Morisawa, Katsumi Kono, Tadashi Tamura, Ryoji Habuchi, Hiroji Taniguchi, Kenji Matsuo
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Patent number: 6672982Abstract: A motorcycle has a final drive, including a flexible drive member, such as a chain or a belt, that extends between the drive pulley and the driven pulley. A belt retention member is positioned proximate a forward portion of the final drive to reduce the likelihood of the belt skipping free of the drive pulley. The belt retention member preferably includes an upper belt retention portion and a lower belt retention portion. Preferably, the upper drive retention portion is positioned further forward relative to the lower belt retention portion such that the upper portion is moved more forward relative to an axis of rotation of the pulley. In this manner, the belt retention member allows more slack to be thrown during rapid acceleration from a decelerated state in the illustrated motorcycle.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masato Ikusue, Daisuke Nakao
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Patent number: 6672983Abstract: A drive system comprising a driver pulley, a driven pulley (22), and a belt (10). The belt (10) has a pulley engaging surface (16) comprised of a plurality of transversely extending self-tracking teeth (18). The driven pulley (22) has a non-grooved, crownless belt engaging surface (24). The material (20) forming the pulley engaging surface (16) of the belt (10) having a relatively low coefficient of friction, and the material (28) forming the belt engaging surface (24) of the driven pulley (22) having a relatively high coefficient of friction.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber CompanyInventors: John Alan Mohr, Jeffery Dwight Lofgren, Vinod Pius Raju, Travis Ray Toline
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Patent number: 6672984Abstract: In a belt for a continuously variable transmission, the relationship of &thgr;NH<&thgr;Y is established between the following two angles: (i) an angle &thgr;Y formed between a straight line drawn from a lower end of one of left and right pulley-abutment faces of a metal element to an outer end of the other of the left and right lower ear surfaces and a straight line drawn from a point of the intersection of a straight line drawn downwards from the point with an outer peripheral surface of a metal ring assembly to the point; and (ii) an angle &thgr;NH formed between a tangent line drawn from the point onto a projection and a tangent line drawn from the point onto a recess of the metal element.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Toru Yagasaki, Shigeru Kanehara
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Patent number: 6672985Abstract: A wheel end assembly having a dual wheel configuration includes independently rotating wheel hubs to reduce tire wear. The wheel end includes a first planetary gear assembly with a sun gear driven by a differential side gear and a ring gear for driving one wheel hub. A second planetary gear assembly with a sun gear driven by a differential side gear and a ring gear drives another wheel hub. A differential assembly is coupled to the first and second sun gears to allow the first and second wheel hubs to rotate relative to one another as the vehicle executes turning maneuvers.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: AxleTech International IP Holdings, LLCInventors: I-Chao Chung, Leonard R. Elliott, Michael E. Johnson
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Patent number: 6672986Abstract: A normally interlocked universal differential device comprises four differentials and two power distributors, in which a central composite differential is disposed in the central portion thereof, and includes an outer differential and an inner differential fitted into said outer differential, two side differentials are connected to both side ends of said central composite differential, power is transmitted to said power distributors from both ends of said two side differentials. The differential device can prevent a vehicle from slipping in the desert zone or the marsh land. The differential device is easy to assemble and has small size, thus increasing the steering ability, and it can be applied to the all-wheel drive automobile, the tractor, the wheeled engineering machinery and the wheeled engineering vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Dianxi Zhou
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Patent number: 6672987Abstract: The family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least seven forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include three planetary gear sets having six torque-transmitting mechanisms and two fixed interconnections. Also, one planetary gear member is continuously connected with the transmission housing. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuosly connected with at least one of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input shaft, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of two to establish at least seven forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Norman Kenneth Bucknor, Patrick Benedict Usoro
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Patent number: 6672988Abstract: A family of transmissions has a plurality of members that can be utilized in powertrains to provide at least seven forward speed ratios and one reverse speed ratio. The transmission family members include three planetary gear sets having six torque-transmitting mechanisms and two fixed interconnections. Also, one planetary gear member is continuously connected with the transmission housing. The powertrain includes an engine and torque converter that is continuously connected to at least one of the planetary gear members and an output member that is continuously connected with another of the planetary gear members. The six torque-transmitting mechanisms provide interconnections between various gear members, the fixed interconnections, the input shaft, the output shaft, and the transmission housing, and are operated in combinations of two to establish at least seven forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Madhusudan Raghavan, Patrick Benedict Usoro, Chi-Kuan Kao
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Patent number: 6672989Abstract: A direct injection type engine comprising a variable speed transmission. Engine control lines indicating the relationship between the engine rotational speed and required torque necessary for obtaining a required output are comprised of a first control line and a second control line at the high torque side and low speed side of the first control line. When the degree of activation of the exhaust gas purification device is low, the required torque and the engine rotational speed are made ones on the first control line in accordance with the required output, while when the degree of activation is high, the required torque and the engine rotational speed are made ones on the second control line in accordance with the required output.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiroki Murata, Shizuo Sasaki, Kohei Igarashi
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Patent number: 6672990Abstract: A method for control of a transmission of a vehicle, especially of an automatic transmission or an automated manual mechanical transmission with hydraulically actuatable shifting elements is described. A speed signal (n_ab_ist, n_t_ist) of the output train with precalculatable time curve (n_ab_soll, n_t_soll) is determined and for adjustment of a nominal filling of the shifting elements an interference signal (P1, P2, P3, P4, PF1, PF2, PF3, PF4) is applied. In case of a untolerable divergence of the speed signal (n_ab_ist, n_t_ist) of the output train from its precalculated curve, a divergence from the nominal filling of the shifting element is detected, the information being processed for control of the shifting elements.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventor: Wolfgang Netzer
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Patent number: 6672991Abstract: A cardiovascular exercise program that includes selectable virtual and real time directed and/or guided exercises particularly adapted for stationary exercise equipment. The program may be performed by individuals in virtual or actual groups. The program allows individual participants to ascertain their ongoing physical conditions such that the participants may customize the exercise program criteria to reflect recognition of such ongoing physical conditions. The program may be performed in a delayed or real-time mode, and includes a particular form of guidance that enables an individual to achieve objectives of self awareness and exercising at appropriate levels through a unique combination of verbal queues, guidance, motivation, entertainment, community, participation, and achievement monitoring. Thus, an individual can increase his or her level of fitness by controlling their perceived level of exertion and the performance of their heart during exercise through guidance and monitoring.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2001Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventor: Sean M. O'Malley
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Patent number: 6672992Abstract: An exercising device includes a hand operated member pivoted to a frame and connected to a first coupler, a lever member pivoted to the frame and connected to the hand operated member by a linking bar, and a second coupler member with a front coupling end connected to the lever member and a rear coupling end in friction contact with a motion guiding member which is journalled on first and second crank members. As such, the second coupling member proceeds with a reciprocating movement in a substantially elliptical path which is restrained by the pivot connection between the handle operated member and the lever member.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventors: Kun-Chuan Lo, Hung-Mao Liao
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Patent number: 6672993Abstract: An aquatic exercise device providing uniform resistance under water when moved in any direction while concurrently preventing erratic movements which can damage the wrist of the individual using it. The unique design featuring a plurality of orifices in spherical surface minimizes splashing and stirring the water around the user. The device is composed of two or more quadrants having a three sided spherical surface that is ringed by vertical ribs which effectively centralize the forces when moved laterally and work in unison when moved either forward or backward along the central axis. Each quadrant has a plurality of orifices that meter the water passing through the device which can be changed in size to yield an exerciser with more or less resistance. Optional attachable flanges provide for lessening or increasing resistance depending on the diameter of the flange legs and their overhang over the ribs.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2002Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Assignee: Aqualogix, Inc.Inventor: Tadlington A. Stout
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Patent number: 6672994Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, an arm supporting member, and a leg supporting member. A sensor is connected to the arm supporting member, and/or a resilient member is interconnected between the arm supporting member and either the leg supporting member or the frame. The sensor communicates with a user display and/or a resistance device to indicate the amounts of work performed by the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, and/or to adjust resistance to movement of the leg supporting member as a function of user force applied against the arm supporting member. The resilient member encourages synchronization of the arm supporting member and the leg supporting member, while allowing some relative movement therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2000Date of Patent: January 6, 2004Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh