Patents Issued in January 20, 2004
  • Patent number: 6679238
    Abstract: A method and apparatus determine exhaust gas temperature and control the heater of a heated exhaust gas oxygen sensor. Heater failures are diagnosed based on the level of current flowing through the heater. Exhaust gas temperature is determined by using a Kalman filter. The exhaust gas temperature sensor is eliminated while maintaining a high degree of accuracy. Current flowing through the heater is used to calculate the temperature of the heater. The temperature of the heater is compared to a desired temperature range and the current to the heater is adjusted to maintain the desired temperature range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Yonas Nebiyeloul-Kifle, Kenneth C. Swartz, Eric H. Gassenfeit
  • Patent number: 6679239
    Abstract: Apparatus for throwing a football includes a pivoting arm supporting the ball and a spring, which preloads the arm to pivot upward and release the football. The arm is rotated manually to a ready-to-throw preloaded position, where the arm is latched by a plunger and released to pivot and launch the ball in response to a command signal transmitted at a distance from the apparatus by a player awaiting the ball. The command signal causes an electric power source to energize a solenoid, whereby the plunger releases the arm, the spring pivots the throwing arm forward, and the ball travels an airborne path to the player.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Michael W. Shultz, Christopher P. Eash, Kevin A. Shar
  • Patent number: 6679240
    Abstract: An arrow launching apparatus is provided for attachment to a bow handle and includes launcher-to-bow-handle attachment assembly connected to the bow handle. A launcher assembly is connected to the launcher-to-bow-handle attachment assembly. The launcher assembly includes a guide member assembly and a carriage block supported on the guide member assembly, and the carriage block rides along the guide member assembly. The carriage block includes a bow-string-reception channel for receiving a bow string. Carriage block hold and release assembly are supported on the guide member assembly and provide for selectively preventing or permitting travel of the carriage block along the guide member assembly. Use of the apparatus permits a user to use both hands when aiming and shooting an arrow. The apparatus also permits use of shorter-than-conventional-length arrows.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: David L. Hurd
  • Patent number: 6679241
    Abstract: An arrow rest for use with an archery bow. The arrow rest includes a shelf mountable to a bow for shelf orientation transverse to an arrow flight direction; one or more launcher arms affixed to the shelf for transverse windage adjustment; and an arrow glide supported by the launcher arm(s) arranged to support an arrow. The arrow rest may, in part, be assembled in a tool-free operation to create a self-biased friction fit between a launcher arm and the shelf. A resilient portion of the arrow rest absorbs arrow vibrations to reduce noise and improve arrow flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Robert G. Proctor
  • Patent number: 6679242
    Abstract: An archery bowstring accessory includes a unitary longitudinally elongated body having a head end portion, a tail end portion, and an intermediate section extending therebetween. The intermediate section is configured to extend longitudinally along a bowstring in an orientation which configures the head end portion more proximate a limb end of a bow which receives said bowstring than is the tail end portion. As so received, the head end portion constitutes a speed increasing mass effective to impart increased arrow speed in an arrow shot by said bowstring of said bow than would otherwise occur in an identical arrow shot in the absence of the speed increasing mass. As so received, the tail end portion constitutes a vibration dampening mass effective to impart reduced bowstring vibration in said arrow shot than would otherwise occur in said identical arrow shot in the absence of said vibration dampening mass. Methods are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Martin Archery, Inc.
    Inventor: Ryan Gail Martin
  • Patent number: 6679243
    Abstract: The present invention provides a superabrasive tools and methods for making the same. In one aspect, superabrasive particles are chemically bonded to a matrix support material according to a predetermined pattern by a braze alloy that contains Cr, Mn, Si, or Al or mixtures thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Chien-Min Sung
  • Patent number: 6679244
    Abstract: A structurally improved stone cutter including a rectangular frame supported by a foldable stand, a rectangular sink in the frame, a rectangular platform having sliding devices on two end slidably engaged with a pair of guide rods of the frame, a brace secured to a corner of the frame for supporting a positioning plate on the top, a motor positioned on a top having a first wheel on one end, a tubular shaft releasably secured to an underside of the positioning plate opposite to the motor and having a spindle therein supported by bearings, a second wheel secured to one end of spindle, a fan cap and a saw blade secured to the other end of the spindle, a belt tensely wrapped on the first and second wheels, a blade guard positioned on the top of the saw blade and secured on one end to an outer lateral surface of the positioning plate and a working station having a L-shaped edge releasably engaged into the gap of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Wen-Hai Tsao
  • Patent number: 6679245
    Abstract: A broiler frame includes a broiler oven and a telescopic foot frame. The broiler oven is fixed with a securing rod under the bottom. The telescopic foot frame for the broiler oven to be rotatably mounted thereon is composed of a collapsible foot frame and a telescopic tube. The collapsible foot frame consists of a sleeve and a set of support tripod. The sleeve is provided with a position bolt and receives the telescopic tube in the interior. The securing rod of the broiler oven is rotatably inserted in the upper end of the telescopic tube. Thus, the broiler oven can be turned around for 360° in using, and the telescopic foot frame can be adjusted to a height suitable for a user to carry out broiling conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Chien-Chang Lu
  • Patent number: 6679246
    Abstract: A baking oven includes a seal located between the baking oven muffle flange and the baking oven door. The seal has chambers. The chambers have an elastic lip-like lateral wall, are aligned in a direction toward the adjacent door walls and muffle flange walls, and are open on a side facing away from the seal fastening. When the door is in a closed position, the free lateral walls of the seal rest against and are deflected outward on the door or on the muffle flange wall such that air is ousted from the sealing chambers, thus, causing the sealing chambers to function in a manner similar to that of a suction cup.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeräte GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Strolz, Frank Rödelsperger
  • Patent number: 6679247
    Abstract: Solar water heaters may include a solar collector in a decorative structure, and solar collectors comprising a coil of tubing are adapted to be disposed in a decorative structure such as a wishing well. In one embodiment, a solar water heating system comprising a decorative structure and a coil of tubing disposed within the decorative structure, the coil having a helical shape and being oriented with its axis disposed generally vertically. In another embodiment, a method comprises the steps of providing a coil of tubing, the coil having an axis and the tubing of the coil being radially spaced from the axis; disposing the coil in a location receiving sunlight with the coil axis oriented generally vertically; and causing fluid to flow through the coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: David T. Gozikowski
  • Patent number: 6679248
    Abstract: The invention relates to a discharge apparatus for media. In the case of such discharge apparatuses the medium to be discharged is stored in a container, which has chambers separated from one another. Into each of the chambers is introduced at least one media component and the media components together form the medium to be discharged. The container is placed in a casing having a discharge opening for discharging the medium. An actuating means movable relative to the casing is provided. Through the actuation of the actuating means firstly a connection between the chambers of the container is produced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Ing. Erich Pfeiffer GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Stadelhofer
  • Patent number: 6679249
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for treatment of a patient having a pulmonary disease involving chronic obstruction of the airways includes a container having therein a chamber containing a composition of L-tartrate in a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier; an opening connected to the chamber so as to provide an outlet therefor, the opening sized for producing droplets of a predetermined size range responsive to the composition being motivated from the chamber through the opening; and a source of motivating force connected with the chamber so as to motivate the composition through the opening to thereby cause nebulization of the composition. A treatment kit comprises the container described and a mouthpiece connectable to the container so as to be in fluid connection with the opening and downstream therefrom to thereby convey the nebulized composition into a patient's mouth to thereby facilitate oral inhalation of the nebulized composition by the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Pneumoflex Systems, L.L.C.
    Inventors: W. Robert Addington, Robert E. Stephens, Stuart P. Miller
  • Patent number: 6679250
    Abstract: A combination spirometer or peak flow meter and nebulizer system is provided. Utilization of common elements, on a time sharing basis is accomplished by the combined instrumentation. The sharing of a common chamber by a peak flow meter and a nebulizer system is controlled by valves operated in response to phases of the respiratory process of a patient. With this combination vaporized medication is provided to a patient for inhalation during the inhale phase of the respiration cycle and the effectiveness of the inhaled medication is monitored by measuring the rate of flow of the breath exhaled during the exhale phase of the same respiratory cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph J. Walker, Frank A. Schimansky, III
  • Patent number: 6679251
    Abstract: Metering aerosol dispensing device comprising an aerosol container (23); a nozzle (31, 32) that is arranged in a nozzle body (30), whereby the aerosol is dispensed via said nozzle when the aerosol container (23) is pushed against the body (30) of the nozzle once the metering aerosol dispensing device is actuated; a meter (1, 2, 4) that counts the number of times that the metering aerosol dispensing device is actuated; and an actuating device (10) that enables the meter (1, 2, 3, 4) to move forward when the metering aerosol dispensing device is actuated. The invention is characterized in that the actuating device (10) is designed and arranged in the metering aerosol dispensing device in such a way that the body (30) of the nozzle is accomodated in the interior of the actuating device (10) and the nozzle (31) is released in order to produce aerosol in an unrestricted manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Pari GmbH Spezialisten fur effektive inhalation
    Inventors: Thomas Gallem, Kevin Stapleton, Martin Knoch
  • Patent number: 6679252
    Abstract: A disposable, expandable/collapsible medication inhalation apparatus for use with an MDI inhaler includes an elongated housing for receiving a plume of medication particles ejected by the MDI inhaler, a mouthpiece, and an inhalation valve disposed between the mouthpiece and the housing. A pair of foldable side sections are pressed together to expand the apparatus. An exhalation port in the mouthpiece allows exhalation through the mouthpiece. A collapsible boot adapter receives a mouthpiece of the MDI inhaler. The inhalation apparatus is constructed from a single sheet of foldable sheet material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Thayer Medical Corporation
    Inventor: David T. Sladek
  • Patent number: 6679253
    Abstract: An automatic water stopper for snorkel mainly includes from bottom to top a lower case having radially equally spaced upright air tubes, a float and a water-stopping diaphragm having corresponding radiated cross section, an air path disk, and an upper case. The air path disk includes a plurality of alternately arranged valve openings and air paths. The air paths are aligned with and therefore always communicable with the air tubes for air to flow into and out of the snorkel while the valve openings are closed or opened depending on positions of the float in the lower case. When the valve openings are opened, air flows into or out of the snorkel along a path defined by the valve openings, the air paths, and the air tubes. When the float contacts with water and moves upward to close the valve openings, external water is prevented from flowing into the snorkel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Le-Jang Feng
  • Patent number: 6679254
    Abstract: There is provided a medicament cartridge for use in an inhalation device comprising a carrier having a plurality of medicament retainers in a concentric circular path arrangement. Typically, the carrier is substantially planar. There is also provided an inhalation device comprising a housing having an air inlet, an air outlet, an airway therebetween and a medicament carrier having a plurality of medicament retainers in a concentric circular path arrangement. A mover is provided for moving the medicament carrier relative to the housing so as to bring successive medicament retainers individually into communication with the airway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: SmithKline Beecham Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Kenneth Rand, Gregor John McClenan Anderson
  • Patent number: 6679255
    Abstract: An inhaler capable of administering powdered medicaments contained in a capsule is formed by a compartment housing the capsule, inside the cover or the body of the inhaler, and a cutting element, inside the same cover or the body. The element cuts or perforates the capsule, releasing the substance it contained. The powder falls into a grid reservoir below that holds the pieces of the case end lets only the powder pass through. Once the capsule is inserted into the compartment, it will be sufficient to activate the cutting device, then place the mouthpiece into the mouth and breathe in, so that the powdered substance dispersed into the chamber can reach the lungs. The inhaler may be equipped with disposable accessories to be placed into the mouth, otherwise it may be used with specific accessories for inhaling the substances also by the nose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Ivo E. Pera
  • Patent number: 6679256
    Abstract: A method for aerosolizing a powder utilizes a receptacle having a cavity containing a powder. An access end of an extraction tube is inserted into the cavity, and an inlet opening is formed in the receptacle. A pressurized gas is flowed through the inlet opening, through the cavity and through the extraction tube to move the powder in the cavity into the extraction tube where the powder is entrained in the gas to form an aerosol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Nektar Therapeutics
    Inventors: Frank W. Ingle, Steve Paboojian, Carlos Schuler, Andrew Clark
  • Patent number: 6679257
    Abstract: A mouthpiece for oral delivery for oral delivery of CPAP treatment has a vestibular shield for location between the teeth and lips/cheeks of a wearer. The vestibular shield is formed from a very supple material and is dimensioned to extend laterally into the buccal vestibule and vertically to overlap the gums. A gases pathway is provided through the vestibular shield and may include a hard plastic insert through the shield. A connection for connecting the mouthpiece to a breathing circuit is provided which reduces the transfer of forces caused by movement therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Limited
    Inventors: Christopher John Robertson, Nicholas Charles Alan Smith, Lewis George Gradon
  • Patent number: 6679258
    Abstract: A ventilator for connection to a patient to provide assisted breathing, has a gas flow generator, a pressure meter, a flow meter and a control unit, which determines a gas pressure, on the basis of a pre-set tidal volume for the patient and measurement signals from the pressure meter and flow meter, for each breath and which regulates the gas flow generator so that it generates the determined gas pressure. An improved breathing mode, better tailored to the patient, is achieved by the control unit also determining the gas pressure to be generated by the gas flow generator on the basis of mechanical resistances and a variable corresponding to the aggregate effect of the resistance and elastance of the lungs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Elema AB
    Inventor: Christer Ström
  • Patent number: 6679259
    Abstract: A process and system are provided for controlling a respirator with a breathing circuit (2), an inspiration branch (10) and an expiration branch (12), in which the gas components needed for the respiration are fed in by a fresh gas metering device (20) via a fresh gas line (9), as a result of which at least the amount of breathing gas consumed can be replenished. A breathing gas delivery unit (1) is provided in the inspiration branch (10) and with a volume flow sensor (13) in the expiration branch (12). The fresh gas utilization of the respirator is improved and the process and system reduces the resistances in the breathing circuit (2) for the patient (3) by the breathing gas delivery unit (1) being returned during the phase of expiration at a speed that depends on the volume flow that is measured by the volume flow sensor (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Dräger Medizintechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Ralf Heesch
  • Patent number: 6679260
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a ventilation mask. The ventilation mask includes an upper hood and a toroidal tube. The toroidal tube is made of soft silicone, and a tube shape is first formed when the middle part of the tube shape is formed into an “S” shape, and whenever the lower part of the “S” is turned upwardly and inwardly, the “S” part will form the toroidal tube. Air can be injected into the toroidal tube so as to conform the face of the patient. An assembly member is used to assemble the upper hood and the toroidal tube. The advantages of the ventilation mask include added comfort, excellent air tightness, transparency. The toroidal tube can be disassembled to be disinfected for repeated use or for replacement. The upper hood does not have to be replaced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Ching-Ling Her
  • Patent number: 6679261
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an adjustable forehead support for a nasal or full-face mask wherein the forehead support may be adjusted for the different shapes and sizes of a facial profile. The forehead support utilizes a dual-arm system that adjusts the position of the forehead support vis-á-vis the mask and/or airflow tube. The angle of the mask to the face may be adjusted with the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Resmed Limited
    Inventors: Perry D. Lithgow, Robert E. Styles, Zdzislaw A. Ziolkowski, Philip R. Kwok
  • Patent number: 6679262
    Abstract: An endotracheal tube cleaning apparatus to be used with an endotracheal tube, the cleaning apparatus having an elongate tubular member with a distal end that extends into the endotracheal tube and a channel defined therethrough and terminating at a distal end disposed in a vicinity of the distal end of the elongate tubular member. A cleaning assembly is provided at the distal end of the elongate tubular member so as to engage the interior wall structure of the endotracheal tube, as a result of a resilient material bladder, for cleaning thereof. A ventilator coupling is further provided and is connected to the endotracheal tube, a first inlet port of the ventilator coupling being coupled to a ventilator assembly to supply air to a patient, and a second inlet port of the ventilator coupling being structured to receive the elongate tubular member therethrough into the endotracheal tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Orlando Morejon
  • Patent number: 6679263
    Abstract: The disclosed medical device includes an inflatable structure configured for positioning in an airway of a human patient and a valve in fluid communication with the inflatable structure. The valve includes a member that is movable between an open position and a closed position. The valve prevents fluid from escaping the inflatable structure when the member is in the closed position. The valve permits fluid to escape the inflatable structure when the member is in the open position. The valve includes a resilient element. The resilient element provides a first force that biases the member towards the closed position. The valve includes a temperature sensitive element. The temperature sensitive element generates a second force that biases the member towards the open position. The first force is greater than the second force when the ambient temperature is below a first value. The first force is smaller than the second force when the ambient temperature is above a second value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: LMA International, S.A.
    Inventors: Cynthia Luchetti, James Brown
  • Patent number: 6679264
    Abstract: Systems, methods and devices for performing pulmonary procedures, and in particular treating lung disease. A flow control element includes a valve that prevents airflow in the inhalation direction but permits airflow in the exhalation direction. The flow control element is guided to and positioned at the site by a bronchoscope that is introduced into the patient's trachea and used to view the lungs during delivery of the flow control element. The valve may include one, two or more valve elements, and it may be collapsible for easier delivery. A source of vacuum or suction may be used to increase the amount of fluid withdrawn from the lung tissue. A device for measuring hollow structures, such as bronchioles, and a device for removing a previously-placed flow control element are disclosed as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Emphasys Medical, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark E. Deem, Hanson S. Gifford, III, Ronald French, Douglas Sutton
  • Patent number: 6679265
    Abstract: A nasal cannula for delivering air to a patient's nares. Two delivery tubes are provided to supply air to a pair of nasal inserts each of which conform to the shape of the nare. Properly placed bleed ports reduce noise and reduce carbon dioxide retained in the system. The cannula is positioned on the face with the aid of a strap system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Worldwide Medical Technologies
    Inventors: Roger Strickland, Jonathan Lee
  • Patent number: 6679266
    Abstract: The invention provides intrafallopian devices and non-surgical methods for their placement to prevent conception. The efficacy of the device is enhanced by forming the structure at least in part from copper or a copper alloy. The device is anchored within the fallopian tube by imposing a secondary shape on a resilient structure, the secondary shape having a larger cross-section than the fallopian tube. The resilient structure is restrained in a straight configuration and transcervically inserted within the fallopian tube, where it is released. The resilient structure is then restrained by the walls of the fallopian tube, imposing anchoring forces as it tries to resume the secondary shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Conceptus, Inc.
    Inventors: Julian Nikolchev, Dai Ton, Amy Thurmond
  • Patent number: 6679267
    Abstract: A sterile drape serving to preserve the sterile integrity of an operating field is disclosed. The drape has a rigid optically clear window which allows a visible light beam, such as a laser beam, to exit a targeting device without refraction or distortion that could result in misalignment of the visible light beam relative to a targeted object. The rigid optically clear window is made of a material having an ability to transmit light and which ability remains substantially unchanged after the drape has undergone a gamma radiation sterilization process. The drape is positioned so that the optically clear window is located across the device window. The optically clear window is adjusted with respect to the device window so that a secondary light beam caused by distortion due to misalignment of the windows disappears and only the visible light beam travels toward the targeted object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Minrad Inc.
    Inventors: John C. McNeirney, William H. Burns, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6679268
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods are provided for accessing the interior of the heart and performing procedures therein while the heart is beating. In one embodiment, a tubular access device having an inner lumen is provided for positioning through a penetration in a muscular wall of the heart, the access device having a means for sealing within the penetration to inhibit leakage of blood through the penetration. The sealing means may comprise a balloon or flange on the access device, or a suture placed in the heart wall to gather the heart tissue against the access device. An obturator is removably positionable in the inner lumen of the access device, the obturator having a cutting means at its distal end for penetrating the muscular wall of the heart. The access device is preferably positioned through an intercostal space and through the muscular wall of the heart.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Heartport, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Stevens, Bruce A. Reitz, Alex T. Roth, William S. Peters, Hanson S. Gifford
  • Patent number: 6679269
    Abstract: Systems and methods for diagnosing and treating tissue transmit an electrical energy pulse that temporarily stuns a zone of tissue, temporarily rendering it electrically unresponsive. The systems and methods sense an electrophysiological effect due to the transmitted pulse. The systems and methods alter an electrophysiological property of tissue in or near the zone based, at least in part, upon the sensed electrophysiological effect. The alteration of the electrophysiological property can be accomplished, for example, by tissue ablation or by the administration of medication. In a preferred implementation, radio frequency energy is used to both temporarily stun tissue and to ablate tissue through a common electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: SciMed Life Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David K. Swanson
  • Patent number: 6679270
    Abstract: A method for reducing the content of nitrosamines (e.g., N′-Nitrosonornicotine, 4-(Methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone, N′-Nitrosoanatabine, and N′-Nitrosoanabasine) in tobacco is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes combining tobacco with a solvent (e.g., water and/or other compounds) to form a soluble portion. The soluble portion contains an initial total level of tobacco-specific nitrosamines per gram of the soluble portion. The soluble portion is contacted with a nitrosamine-reducing material such that the resulting weight percentage of the tobacco-specific nitrosamines per gram of said soluble portion is at least about 20% less than the initial total level of the tobacco-specific nitrosamines per gram of the soluble portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Nicolas Baskevitch, Lanig Le Bec, Diane Raverdy-Lambert
  • Patent number: 6679271
    Abstract: A nail care apparatus comprises a motor housing having two ends: a handle end and a rotating housing end. A replaceable tip is inserted into the rotating housing so that it rotates along with the housing end. A disposable manicuring cylinder that is comprised of a soft polyurethane rubber in the shape of a hollow cylinder is then secured onto the replaceable tip, allowing it to rotate along with the replaceable tip. A power supply is connected to the housing at the handle end and provides power to an electric motor inside the motor housing such that the operation of the motor causes rotational movement of the rotating housing. The manicuring cylinders would be manufactured by slicing long tubes polyurethane rubber into desired lengths. The outer surface of the manicuring cylinder would be granular due to either a surface coating of sand powder mixed with adhesive or a sandpaper laminate, thus allowing uniform and even buffing and polishing without the risk of unnecessary keratin erosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Sunjeen, Inc.
    Inventor: Sunjeen Choe
  • Patent number: 6679272
    Abstract: The present invention provides a megasonic cleaning apparatus configured to provide effective cleaning of a substrate without causing damage to the substrate. The apparatus includes a probe having one of a variety of cross-sections configured to decrease the ratio of normal-incident waves to shallow-angle waves. One such cross-section includes a channel running along a portion of the lower edge of the probe. Another cross-section includes a narrow lower edge of the probe. Another cross-section is elliptical. Another cross-section includes transverse bores originating in the lower edge of the probe. As an alternative to, or in addition to, providing a probe having a cross-section other than circular, the present invention may also provide a probe having a roughened lower surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Verteq, Inc.
    Inventors: Mario E. Bran, Michael B. Olesen, Yi Wu
  • Patent number: 6679273
    Abstract: Cold-reduced flat-rolled low carbon steel strip is surface cleansed of ferromagnetic contaminants including iron fines, iron oxide particulate and associated debris which result from gauge-reduction operations. Such ferromagnetic contaminants are permanently removed from the strip steel hot-dip galvanizing system by dynamically concentrating such contaminant which are flushed to a magnetically-assisted particle separation container, formed from paramagnetic sheet material, which retains such contaminants, while cleansing solution at a desired purity level, is returned to the surface cleansing system; with sedimentation tank means providing for diminishing waste disposal concerns by separating sludge and recycling liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Weirton Steel Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Olashuk
  • Patent number: 6679274
    Abstract: A method is taught for cleaning photographic chemistry product fouling, including a proteinaceous portion and a non-proteinaceous portion from a liquid delivery system. The method comprises the steps of displacing resident product solution in the piping with water, hydrodynamically cleaning the piping system using two-phase flow a first time, chemically cleaning the piping system with an aqueous bleach solution to remove the proteinaceous portion of the photographic chemistry product fouling, chemically cleaning the piping system with a functionalized ethyl acetate solvent to remove the non-proteinaceous portion of the photographic chemistry product fouling, and hydrodynamically cleaning the piping system using two-phase flow a second time after the chemical cleaning steps to remove remaining residue. Preferably, after the second hydrodynamic two-phase flow cleaning step, the delivery system is subjected to a high purity water rinse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: David W. Gruszczynski, Douglas E. Margevich, Mark Fornalik
  • Patent number: 6679275
    Abstract: In order to further develop a vehicle washing installation comprising at least one nozzle arrangement which is movable past a vehicle to be cleaned in the longitudinal and transverse directions thereof and is adapted to be supplied with a cleaning liquid for cleaning the vehicle, so that it is of structurally simpler design and is less susceptible to failure, it is proposed, in accordance with the invention, that the nozzle arrangement comprise at least two groups of nozzles, with a first group of nozzles facing the vehicle to be cleaned during a transverse movement of the nozzle arrangement and a second group of nozzles facing the vehicle to be cleaned during a longitudinal movement of the nozzle arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Alfred Kaercher GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Michael Heinze, Oliver Berger
  • Patent number: 6679276
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for washing a plurality of cored lettuce heads as they are harvested in the field is disclosed. The apparatus incorporates a multi-segment hinged conveyer forming a loop, at least one support platform having an opening, at least one lettuce head guide connected to the support platform and an aqueous solution spraying system. Workers harvest lettuce heads, core the lettuce heads and then place them on the lettuce head guides which are moving along the conveyer. The lettuce heads are conveyed to an aqueous solution spraying system which washes the cored areas of the lettuce heads. The lettuce heads are then removed from the conveyer into a produce bin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Fresh Express, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard S. Brown, Eugene D. Rizzo
  • Patent number: 6679277
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for opening/closing a ventilation window of a tent. The apparatus has a fastener for opening/closing the ventilation window for ventilating an inner space of the tent by assembling/disassembling combining members with each other, a hole formed on a body of the fastener, an opening rope of which one end is tied up to the hole, and a closing rope of which one end is tied up to a connection hole formed on a knob combined to a long hole formed on the body of the fastener. The ventilation window is opened as the opening rope is pulled, and closed as the closing rope is pulled. Thus, there is no inconvenience in opening/closing the ventilation window as the user can open/close the ventilation window while he/she sits down on the floor of the tent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Kyong Jai Choi
  • Patent number: 6679278
    Abstract: The invention relates to a controllable valve, particularly for delivering a pulsed flow of fluid. It comprises a valve body (10); a valve seat (12) dividing the inside of the body into an inlet chamber (14) and an outlet chamber (16); a valve shutter element (22) capable of moving; an actuator (24) comprising a stationary control part (26) for receiving control signals and a moving part (28); first rigid means of connection (30) for connecting the said moving part of the actuator (28) to the said shutter element (22); a mechanical stop (40′); a member (38) that can be compressed under the effect of a force applied to it, comprising a first end secured to the said mechanical stop; and second rigid means (36′) for dynamically connecting one of the faces of the said shutter element (22b) to the second end of the said compressible member (38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Safmatic
    Inventors: Olivier Lemoine, Luc Jarry, Dominique Gresser, Christian Boutet
  • Patent number: 6679279
    Abstract: A fluidic valve (125, 300, 500, 900, 1000, 1100, 1200, 1300) switches a state of flow of a fluid in a fluid communication channel of a fluid guiding structure (505). Heating a bi-phase valve element (515, 1065, 1215) causes a change a state of the bi-phase valve element from a high viscosity state to a low viscosity state. A bi-phase valve element that clogs the fluid communication channel can be pushed into an expanded portion (135, 320, 520, 915, 1220) of the fluid communication channel by an application of pressure to the fluid while the bi-phase valve element is in the low viscosity state, unclogging the fluid communication channel. A bi-phase valve element can be pushed from a valve element source chamber (550, 1250) into the fluid communication channel by using a pumped fluid entering the source chamber at a pump inlet (551) while the bi-phase valve element is in the low viscosity state, clogging the fluid communication channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Robin Hui Liu, Justin J. Bonanno, Piotr Grodzinski, Randall Stevens
  • Patent number: 6679280
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for converting single multiphase fluid flow into plural multiphase fluid flows having substantially uniform composition and flow properties. A manifold comprises an enclosure having an inlet and an inner surface perpendicular to the inlet such that the incident angle of input flow impacts the surface to form a stagnation point whereby an intermediate flow is deflected along the surface substantially symmetrically outward from the stagnation point and channeled to a plurality of parallel fluid outlets connected to the enclosure. The distance between the stagnation point and the plurality of outlets is selected to maintain substantially equivalent fluid pressures and uniform flow rates at the outlets. A preferred embodiment of the manifold channels the intermediate flow between two walls forming a triangular shaped nozzle directing the flow from the stagnation point to the base of the triangle for communication of electrolyte to a metal-based fuel cell through the plurality of outlets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Metallic Power, Inc.
    Inventor: Martín De Tezanos Pinto
  • Patent number: 6679281
    Abstract: A switching device for a machine, especially a digger, has at least one supply connection and one useful connection in addition to at least one hydraulic accumulator. An on-off valve is arranged between the supply connection and the useful connection, and separates the supply connection at least partially from the useful connection in one of its switching positions, in addition to ensuring that the hydraulic accumulator is charged on the fluid side via the supply connection. In another switching position, the supply connection is connected to the useful connection. A substantial improvement relative to conventional switching devices is attained by being able to guarantee an emergency function before the machine is used to perform work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Hydac Fluidtechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Gerd Anton Thiry, Harald Bär, Martin Schaus
  • Patent number: 6679282
    Abstract: Disclosed is a valve being attached to a fuel tank, the valve permitting a vaporized fuel to flow out and inhibiting a liquid fuel from flowing out. The valve includes a cover and a case. For example, the cover is bonded to an upper portion of a fuel tank, is independent of the fuel tank, and includes a connecting surface to be connected to the fuel tank and a flow-out passage in which a vaporized fuel flows out. The connecting surface has a connector portion formed of a resin exhibiting a good bondability to the fuel tank. The case is screwed to the cover, and includes an evaporator opening and a floating valve. The evaporator opening communicates with the flow-out passage. The floating valve opens or closes the evaporator opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tomohide Aoki, Hiroaki Kito, Hiroshi Nishi, Kenichiro Kaneko, Masayuki Nakagawa, Masahiro Ando
  • Patent number: 6679283
    Abstract: A valve inspection chamber includes a housing having a vertical inspection and valve retrieval opening. A valve cassette is provided which includes a frame and a valve member movable relative to the frame between an open position and a closed position. A valve cassette receptacle is positioned in the housing. The valve cassette is inserted and retrieved through the vertical inspection and valve retrieval opening of the housing using a retrieval tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Gabe Coscarella
  • Patent number: 6679284
    Abstract: A telescopic boom-mounted concrete pump is provided wherein a telescoping boom assembly is pivotally and rotatably mounted on the platform of the truck. The boom assembly includes inner, intermediate and outer boom members. A first concrete conduit which is in fluid communication with a source of pressurized concrete is mounted at one side of the inner boom member for movement therewith. A normally U-shaped flexible concrete hose has its inlet end thereof connected to the discharge end of the first concrete conduit. A rigid concrete conduit has its inlet end connected to the discharge end of the flexible concrete hose. A jib boom member in the form of a concrete discharge conduit is pivotally and rotatably connected to the outer end of the outer boom member and is in fluid communication with the rigid concrete conduit. The jib boom member may be removed from the outer end of the outer boom member and replaced with an aerial platform. A winch and sleeve is also mounted on the boom assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Glazer Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy J. Raymond
  • Patent number: 6679285
    Abstract: The invention relates to a faucet for filling tanks known as silent and/or fast-closing faucets. The faucet comprises a basic structure and functionalities such as those disclosed in Patent 9400095. The device assembly controlling opening and closing of the faucet has important improvements in comparison with other conventional faucets and in comparison with the above-mentioned patent. The faucet also includes a lever system connecting the float and the piston acting upon the opening and closing device. In additional, improvement deals with the telescopic structure of the fluid outlet tubes to the tank in order to regulate the height thereof depending on the depth of the tank so that the fluid is always discharged into the water with the aim of preventing noises.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Fominaya Agulló Pablo
  • Patent number: 6679286
    Abstract: A compact ball tap with 1 a water level switch which comprises a guide standpipe 5 vertically arranged in a tank T, a float 6 slidably installed on the guide standpipe 5, a valve 3, a lever 4 controlling an open-close action of the valve 3 connected with the float 6, and a water level switch 29 transmitting predetermined control signals when the float 6 shifts to a predetermined water level, wherein one float 6 is shared by the ball tap 1 and the water level switch 29.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Yoshitake Inc.
    Inventors: Nobuhide Kato, Hiroyuki Mizuno
  • Patent number: 6679287
    Abstract: A level adjuster of a water supply of a water box serves for adjusting the amount of water in a water box conveniently and easily. The level adjuster comprises a press, a supporting rod, an pressable button, a positioning seat, a pontoon, an inner water injecting tube and an outer water injecting tube of a water injector. The amount of water in the water box can be precisely controlled and the operation is easy without using any other auxiliary tool. No problem of element fatigue and change of water level occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Chien Cheun Plastic Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: So-Mel Huang