Patents Issued in January 20, 2004
  • Patent number: 6679488
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an armature spring (4) for a relay comprising a fastening section (3), a connected oblong spring section and a lever (7). The lever is located on the side of the longitudinal axis of the spring section opposite to that of the fastening section (3) so that the spring section is subject to torsional stress. Due to the torsional stress of the spring section, an even progression of the spring characteristic curve can be achieved. The stress is very even, so that the spring is very small and simple. In advantageous embodiments, the spring section extends parallel to the armature pivot axis and is formed by a torsion web (6). The lever section can be flexibly deformable. As a result the spring characteristic can be particularly easily and flexibly adjusted. As a result the spring armature can be combined with a magnet system exhibiting opening angles of 10° to 15°.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics AMP GmbH
    Inventors: Juergen Breitlow-Hertzfeldt, Martin Hanke, Ralf Hoffmann
  • Patent number: 6679489
    Abstract: The system is designed to provide a transport system with specified sheet-like material at a requested time. The system includes insert towers that provide the requested material at the appropriate time. Each insert tower contains multiple insert hoppers aligned vertically within the tower. Due to space constraints, the vertical arrangement of the hoppers enables the system to choose from significantly more different inserts than would be available from systems without vertical insert towers. The insert hoppers are loaded vertically within the insert hoppers which creates a horizontal queue of sheet-like material. Upon a request from a system computer, specified inserts are pulled and the insert tower delivers the insert to a transport system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: First Data Resources, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred C. Casto, Bruce A. Bennett, Mick P. McDonald, Jeff J. Schreiber, Corey Tunink
  • Patent number: 6679490
    Abstract: A feeder roller apparatus for high speed image scanning equipment, which improves feeding of documents, and in particular short documents, sequentially fed from a stack. The feeder apparatus comprises a PIC roller and an infeed roller which are selectively, independently driven via a dual drive shaft, composed of an inner drive shaft and an outer drive shaft, driven together or selectively, independently by a main motor. An electro-mechanical clutch, when energized is used to drive the PIC roller. A sensor is provided downstream of the rollers to recognize when a document is being fed. Initially, the clutch is energized, and both rollers are driven. When the first sheet reaches the sensor, the clutch is de-energized, cutting off the drive to the PIC roller. The main motor continues driving only the infeed roller until the first sheet is fed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Bowe Bell + Howell Scanners, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Jose Pioquinto, James Russo
  • Patent number: 6679491
    Abstract: A method of singulating and feeding a random mix of thick and thin flat articles includes: (a) sensing whether a flat article is positioned on a feed conveyor in a position for removal from the feeder conveyor with a sensor, (b) advancing the feed conveyor with a first motor an incremental step to place a series of flat articles positioned on edge in a position for removal from the feed conveyor each time the sensor detects the absence of a flat article for removal from the feed conveyor, (c) counting each incremental advance of the feed conveyor, (d) incrementally advancing the stack of flat articles with a jogger driven by a second motor after the feed conveyor has moved a predetermined number of incremental steps to load additional flat articles on the feed conveyor, the jogger tending to edge the flat articles for removal from the feed conveyor; and (e) repeating steps (a)-(d) while sequentially removing flat articles from the feed conveyor on a one-by-one basis as the feed conveyor is advanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Hauke Luebben, Jochen Loose, Daniel Kang, Michael Allain, Michael Yaklin
  • Patent number: 6679492
    Abstract: A method of playing a betting game using a special payoff table is utilized. Winning a round of play entitles players to the predetermined payoff. The payoff tables are carefully constructed to accommodate enhanced payoffs. Players are offered jackpots for winning consecutive rounds of play in games that previously did not offered it. Special bonuses are offered for arrangements specific to the particular game, thus interest of the desired outcomes is broaden. Players that won at least one round of play but then lose, trying to obtain number of consecutive wins that would qualify them for a jackpot, still receive a reward. The house edge changes from round to round, and favors players continuing betting after their wins. This method of playing can be used as the main betting system or as a side bet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Jaroslaw Markowiak
  • Patent number: 6679493
    Abstract: A fold-through puzzle designed to interact and engage the interest of a puzzle solver for amusement and as a vehicle to present advertising to the viewer. The puzzle utilizes at east one planar member and a plurality of fold lines and may be repeatedly folded to create the illusion that several pieces of paper are being endlessly passed through themselves. In one embodiment, a plurality of planar members are attached to one another such that the members may pivot about each other on fold lines. In an alternative embodiment, the fold-through puzzle is configured with a single planar member and a plurality of incisions through the planar member, such that the puzzle maybe folded along fold lines, creating pivot areas and corner area, that when folded, produce the illusion that a single piece of paper is being endlessly passed through itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Cyril-Scott Company
    Inventor: Chad Stephenson
  • Patent number: 6679494
    Abstract: A checkerboard confectionary game that includes a box with a checkerboard pattern disposed on one surface to form a game board and a checkerboard pattern formed on a side surface such that multiple boxes can be positioned to form stacks of boxes with a checkerboard appearance, playing pieces that may be individually wrapped cookies of two designs with unique moves, and unique capture and winning rules for the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph P. Scovel
  • Patent number: 6679495
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of determining a winner in a game of chance involving four game areas of numbers. The winner is established based upon having placed a wager on numbers which are selected to appear in game areas three (302) and four (303), in accordance with a selected criteria which operate on numbers which are caused to be present in first (314) and second (315) game areas as a result of chance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Marion Endelicato
  • Patent number: 6679496
    Abstract: A stacking piece game includes a plurality of game pieces stackable in layers, with each game piece being associated with one of a plurality of task classes and one of a plurality of activities associated with the one task class. At least one of the game pieces includes a task class indicia identifying the one task class and an activity description of the one activity. The game is played by (1) stacking the game pieces in layers to form a tower; (2) removing one of the game pieces from the tower; (3) performing an activity determined in accordance with at least the indicia of the removed game piece; (4) returning the removed game piece to the tower upon completion of the activity; and (5) repeating the removing, and returning steps amongst players of the game until the tower collapses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Pokonobe Associates
    Inventors: Robert Grebler, Paul Eveloff, Amanda Birkinshaw
  • Patent number: 6679497
    Abstract: A method and apparatus of playing a card game such as Blackjack provides a player with at least one additional option for playing the card game. For example, a Blackjack player who has made an initial bet and was dealt an unfavorable starting hand may be provided with at least one additional option, such as making a bust insurance bet or mortgaging a round of play. If the player makes a bust insurance bet, he will receive a payout if he then busts upon drawing an additional card. If the player selects a mortgaging option, he agrees to play the current round of play or at least one future round of play in accordance with a revised rule that is unfavorable for the player in exchange for receiving an advantage during the current round of play.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Walker Digital, LLC
    Inventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Peter Kim, Geoffrey M. Gelman, Peter J. Vogel
  • Patent number: 6679498
    Abstract: An indoor interactive competitive game of skill incorporating an arcade-type fixed target and an elastic launching sling using the human body as a yoke and fulcrum to propel soft foam balls to the target containing numerous indicia marked scoring opportunities for the prospect of reaching a predetermined highest score.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas J. Barniak, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6679499
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for standing a fallen stick between medals in a premium arcade game. In particular, it relates to a method for electronically detecting the stick being knocked down during a game and automatically re-standing the fallen stick by simple mechanical procedures in a premium arcade game that a user rakes down as many medals heaped up on a plate as possible without knocking down a stick standing between the medals by controlling a joy-stick or up/down buttons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Ma Eolith Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ju Young Jeon
  • Patent number: 6679500
    Abstract: A brush seal assembly for a coal pulverizer includes multiple identical assembly segments. Each assembly segment comprises an arcuate brush assembly, a pair of clamping block assemblies and a pair of mounting bolts. The brush assembly includes a brush and an adjusting segment having a pair of elliptical openings. A radially inner end of the brush contacts the pulverizer yoke and a radially outer end is connected to the adjusting segment. Each clamping block assembly includes a clamping block, having a circular opening, a threaded rod, and a pair of jam nuts, the rod extending radially from an inner end mounted to the clamping block through the first jam nut, a hole in the adjusting segment, and the second jam nut. Each mounting bolt has a threaded shaft which extends longitudinally upward from the bolt head, through the circular opening of one of the clamping blocks and one of the elliptical openings of the adjusting segment, to a distal end portion which engages an opening of the pulverizer seal housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: ALSTOM (Switzerland) Ltd
    Inventors: Donald G. Maurer, Peter L. Stanwicks
  • Patent number: 6679501
    Abstract: A motor or bearing which incorporates the use of a capillary seal adjacent a bearing race between the shaft and surrounding hub or housing. The seal may take a plurality of forms, including a straight capillary seal; a seal formed between the housing and a seal ball having different radius of curvatures (preferably with the housing internal surface having a larger radius); or a centrifugal capillary seal comprising a male cone supported on a fixed or rotating shaft, and a female cone supported on a housing. The use of a capillary seal rather than ferrofluid seal should also provide a reduction in resistance across the seal gap compared to a ferrofluid seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Seagate Technology LLC
    Inventors: Robert M. Pelstring, Raquib U. Khan, Klaus Kloeppel, Alan L. Grantz, Norbert S. Parsoneault, Marten F. Byl, Hans Leuthold
  • Patent number: 6679502
    Abstract: A valve stem seal assembly for an internal combustion engine includes an elastomer seal body and a metal retainer adapted to secure the seal body in place over a valve guide. The cylindrical seal body has an aperture with at least one radially inwardly directed sealing lip adapted to engage a reciprocally movable valve stem to minimize escape of oil lubricant from the engine along a path between the valve guide and stem. The retainer, formed of a spring metal cylindrical body adapted to frictionally retain the seal body at its upper end, contains first and second sets of axially depending resilient fingers at its lower end. The first set of fingers mechanically engages and supports a unique valve guide member within a valve guide aperture of a cylinder head deck, while the second set of fingers supports the seal assembly directly against the head deck under a valve spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Dana Corporation
    Inventor: Mark Alan Leimer
  • Patent number: 6679503
    Abstract: A chuck unit for a machine tool is capable of holding a workpiece installed on a spindle by workpiece holding members that move in a radial direction with respect to an axial center. Workpiece holding rods are provided at the workpiece holding member and move radially. Screw operating portions are operated by a rotating operation jig at an outer peripheral side of the chuck unit. A workpiece end face abutment moves and holds the workpiece in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Yamazaki Mazak Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tsunehiko Yamazaki, Haruhiko Koike, Noboru Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 6679504
    Abstract: A vibration control system for a structure having a first structural member and a second structural member. The vibration control system having a liquid spring operably interposed between the first structural member and the second structural member. The liquid spring uses a compressible liquid to seamlessly generate spring and/or damping forces in the suspension system in response to relative displacement between the first structural member and the second structural member. A second volume of compressible liquid is located in a second chamber. The second volume is removably connected to the liquid spring by a fluid passage. A valve is coupled to the fluid passage, the valve selectively operable to place the second volume in communication with the liquid spring. A controller is electrically coupled to the valve. The controller emitting a control signal to control the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Liquidspring Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Damon Delorenzis, Richard J. Meyer
  • Patent number: 6679505
    Abstract: A sole plate structure of a roller skate, wherein, a sole plate is integrally formed by injection molding of plastic into a flat and elongate shape, and is provided on both the front and the rear ends thereof with two down protruding blocks; and every such two protruding blocks are placed therebetween a vibration absorbing member, two wheel axle covers are provided for the pairs of the front and the rear wheels on the roller skate to have their respective vibration absorbing members and protruding blocks enveloped, and locked with a bolt extending therethrough, the vibration absorbing members can completely absorb the vibrations induced in skating of the roller skate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Lien-Chuan Yang
  • Patent number: 6679506
    Abstract: A combined shopping cart stroller having cargo carrying and passenger carrying capabilities is provided. The shopping cart stroller comprises a frame supported on wheels for rolling movement, a seat mounted to the frame and being shiftable between an unfolded position in which the seat is positioned to support the passenger and a folded position in which the folded seat defines a portion of a forward cargo area, a rearward cargo area defined by a rearward portion of the frame, and a lower cargo area defined by a lower portion of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Ohio Steel Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Dana J. Koppes, Eric J. Fickas, Vincent A. Gioia, Rodger Hays, Joni Hill, Paul P. Kolada, Thomas P. Martini, Jon M. Provencher, Kevin J. Vititoe
  • Patent number: 6679507
    Abstract: A combined carrier and transport unit is open at the top and has a perforated bottom. The unit is made of sheet material and has a substantially U-shaped cross section. The bottom of the U forms the bottom wall of the unit and the two sides of the U form side supporting walls for a seed tape that can be folded and placed edgewise on the bottom wall. Connecting members are provided in the transition area between the bottom wall and each side supporting wall. These connecting members can be bent outwards and downwards so that the side walls and the bottom wall are on the same level when the unit is not in use, and can be bent upwards when the unit is in use. The resulting unit is very light, and in the empty piled state it requires very little room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Bentle Products AG
    Inventor: Poul Henrik Ahm
  • Patent number: 6679508
    Abstract: The subject inventive steering damper assembly includes a rotor sleeve having open first and second ends and a drive plate disposed in the open second end. A core is co-axially disposed in the rotor sleeve closing the open first end of the rotor sleeve and defining a magnetic fluid chamber with the sleeve. A Magneto-Rheological fluid is disposed in the magnetic fluid chamber. The drive plate is flexible to provide manufacturing and operational tolerance, and is securely attached to the open second end of the rotor sleeve. Flexibility is derived from at least one aperture disposed in the drive plate. The aperture may be formed in a variety of shapes including elongated, round and oval shaped apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald G. Smith, Jr., Michael L. Oliver, William C. Kruckemeyer
  • Patent number: 6679509
    Abstract: A trailing arm suspension (10) with a height control valve (70) in combination with an anti-creep device (12) having an automatic reset mechanism (90) that pressurizes the air spring of the trailing arm suspension until the rotatable arm (60) of the anti-creep device (12) is free to rotate from an extended position to a retracted position, even if the ride height is set too low. The automatic reset mechanism (90) adjusts the trailer height to prevent the binding of the trailing arm suspension and the anti-creep device when the height control valve (70) is improperly adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: The Holland Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory T. Galazin, Perry W. Thomas
  • Patent number: 6679510
    Abstract: An ambulatory device having a frame having support rails, two large rear wheels containing hand grasps, two small front wheels for steering, a foldable seat allowing the user to sit when desirable, and a height-adjustable support frame having a vertical and horizontal section rising from the frame. A body halter holding the user is optionally rotatably supported by a horizontal support bar which is connected by connector ropes or cables to a T-shaped support bar. Alternatively, the body halter is directly connected to connector ropes which pass by pulleys or through horizontal tubular sections to attach to a scale. The support frame is made height adjustable by a winch or a hydraulic system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Max C. Perena
  • Patent number: 6679511
    Abstract: A heavy equipment (such as a tractor loader backhoe) transporter is disclosed. The transporter apparatus includes a tongue assembly and a rear axle assembly. The tongue assembly is adapted to connect to the front of the heavy equipment and the rear axle assembly is adapted to connect to the rear of the heavy equipment. When the assemblies are connected to the heavy equipment, a new unitary trailer is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Donald M. Parker, Merl P. Parker
  • Patent number: 6679512
    Abstract: The tractor hitch guide is a modification of a three-point tractor hitch and of the corresponding pinning structures of the implement. The modified tractor hitch includes bushings located on the links of the two side arms, to extend the openings of the links in a direction coaxially outward with the openings. The modified pinning structures of the implement include a spring-loaded latching pin that automatically latches with the link when it is in its aligned position. Centering brackets are provided for horizontally aligning the links and a spring-loaded leveling plate is provided for vertical alignment, when the tractor is backed into the implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Dickie M. Plessala
  • Patent number: 6679513
    Abstract: In an alpine ski (1) comprising a body (2) which is composed of several elements and has on its underside a gliding surface (3) and on its upper side (7) a binding mounting area (8), and includes at least one upper chord element (4) subjected primarily to pressure loads and at least one lower chord element (5) subjected to tensile loads, the upper chord element (4) has in the middle region of the ski the shape of a flat, upwardly curved arc (6) extending in the longitudinal direction of the ski and spanning the lower chord element (5). The arc (6) of the upper chord element (4) is adapted to deflect in the direction of the lower chord element (5) in dependence upon the load exerted by the binding and is supported in the end regions of the ski in such a way that a displacement of the ends of the upper chord element (5) resulting from the deflection of the arc (6) increases the load carrying share of the end regions of the ski.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Uwe Emig, Reinhold Geilsdörfer, Markus Gramlich
  • Patent number: 6679514
    Abstract: A binding unit support comprises a support body of a length approximately that of the binding unit and having a longitudinal axis, distal end regions of the support body receiving jaw bodies of the binding unit, a bottom face of the support body having at least part regions designed to sit on a top face of a board-type runner, and a middle region of the support body being of a lesser structural stiffness than the end regions. A fixing device mounts the support body on the top face of the board-type runner, the fixing device comprising longitudinally spaced brackets extending transversely over at least one of the end regions across the support body and guiding the support body for freely sliding in the longitudinal direction relative to the top face of the board-type runner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Atomic Austria GmbH
    Inventors: Max Luitz, Adolf Stonig
  • Patent number: 6679515
    Abstract: A conventional (strap) binding assembly for use with a snowboard. The binding assembly comprises a frame (120) having a base portion (122) that receives a snowboard boot. A pair of side walls (124) extend upwardly from either side of the base, and a high back portion (24) extends upwardly from the rearward end of the base. An ankle strap assembly (130) having a first ankle strap (131) attached to one side of the frame and a second ankle strap (135) attached to the other side of the frame, is provided, including a clasp (140) for adjustably securing the first ankle strap to the second ankle strap. In some embodiments the first ankle strap is attached to the frame with a biased hinge assembly (150), biasing the distal end (131b) of the strap away from the frame. In a preferred embodiment, a toe strap assembly (160), functionally similar to the ankle strap assembly is also provided, disposed forwardly of the ankle strap assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: K-2 Corporation
    Inventor: Robert G. Carrasca
  • Patent number: 6679516
    Abstract: A device for retaining a boot on a sports apparatus. The device includes a covering portion, which itself includes a longitudinal reinforcement and a shock-absorbing pad. The hardness of the shock absorbing-pad increases from an inner end toward an outer end of the reinforcement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Salomon S.A.
    Inventor: Hervé Andrevon
  • Patent number: 6679517
    Abstract: The present invention is a suspension system for use with a trailer or truck having a frame and front and rear axles. In one embodiment, the suspension system comprises a front hangar having a lower portion, a bearing portion, and an upper portion engaged with the frame. The suspension system further comprises a hangar assembly having a lower portion, an upper portion engaged with the frame and a rocker arm having first and second bearing portions. The suspension system further comprises a rear hangar engaged with the frame and having a bearing portion. The suspension system further comprises a first saddle engaged with the front axle and a second saddle engaged with the rear axle. The suspension system further comprises a leaf spring having a first end portion engaged with the bearing portion of the front hangar and a second end portion engaged with the first bearing portion of the rocker arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Cataldo Proia
  • Patent number: 6679518
    Abstract: The invention relates to an airbag module for motor vehicles, comprising a housing for an inflatable airbag and a gas generator, with the gas generator being coupled to the housing without securing means via at least one elastic and/or oscillation damping coupling member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Johannes-Alexander Varcus, Bernd Uwe Zimmerbeutel, Erika Helbig
  • Patent number: 6679519
    Abstract: An airbag device includes a gas generator and an airbag to be accommodated behind at least one cover that can be displaced from a closed position, in which it is integrated into the vehicle's paneling, into an open position, in which it is disposed behind the paneling, when the airbag device is activated by driving devices. In the open position, the cover does not substantially project beyond the vehicle's paneling in the direction toward a passenger. The driving devices include at least one rolling piston that can be rolled in a guide chamber along a rolling path from a starting position into an end position when being subjected to compressed gas. The rolling piston thus causes the cover to move from the closed position to the open position. A method for operating an airbag device is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Volkswagen AG
    Inventor: Olaf Müller
  • Patent number: 6679520
    Abstract: To enable the easy adjustment of the height of the upper end of a shoulder belt of webbing utilizing a shoulder guard provided to a strut provided on both right and left sides of a seat. An air belt system is provided with webbing in which a lap belt that cannot be inflated and a shoulder belt that can be inflated are connected to each other. A retractor is provided to one side of a seat for winding the end of the lap belt. A tongue is supported in an intermediate part of the webbing so that the tongue can slide relative thereto. A buckle is provided on the other side of the seat for connecting the tongue so that the tongue can be detached. An inflator is connected to the end of the shoulder belt for supplying high pressure gas to the shoulder belt. Right and left shoulder guards are respectively provided to the struts provided on both right and left sides of the seat so that the upper and lower positions can be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Norihiro Kurata, Takeshi Kuroe
  • Patent number: 6679521
    Abstract: A gas generator for an air bag, in which conduction of heat generated by combustion of a gas generating agent is restricted to effectively reduce or inhibit a temperature increase of a diffuser side on an outer shell container, is provided and thus, reduces the maximum surface temperature of the diffuser. The gas generator includes a housing which has a diffuser shell with at least one gas discharge port and a closure shell for forming an accommodating space together with the diffuser shell and the gas generating agent, installed in the housing, ignited and burnt by an igniting unit to generate a combustion gas, wherein the gas generator further includes a heat transfer restricting member for making a conduction of heat generated by a combustion of the gas generating agent to the diffuser shell side smaller than that to the closure shell side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masayuki Yamazaki, Katsuhito Miyaji
  • Patent number: 6679522
    Abstract: An inflatable airbag includes a rearwardly directed surface to be contacted by the occupant when expanded, an end located at a side opposite to the rearwardly directed surface and having a hole for receiving an inflation gas, and laterally spaced side surfaces extending between the rearwardly directed surface and the end, and oriented substantially vertically in the passenger compartment. The side surfaces have inwardly extending depressions formed in a middle portion of each side surface of the airbag as viewed in a vertical direction and located away from the rearwardly directed surface to restrict movement of the inflation gas inside the airbag when the occupant hits the inflated airbag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Takata Corporation
    Inventor: Tadahiro Igawa
  • Patent number: 6679523
    Abstract: A sub-frame structure of a motor vehicle includes a pair of side frame sections and a cross member section. The pair of side frame sections extend in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle at prescribed lateral spacing and include laterally inward bends in each section. The cross member section connects front ends of the side frame sections. The cross member section and end portions of the side frame sections connected to the cross member section are integrally formed of a deformed tube member. The remaining portions of the frame member sections including said bends are formed of a closed section member fabricated by joining a plurality of members at flanges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Mazda Motor Corporation
    Inventors: Tadanobu Yamamoto, Susumu Sano, Tadashi Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 6679524
    Abstract: A tension sensing assembly for a seat restraint system in a vehicle includes a housing and a movable mechanism disposed in the housing. The tension sensing assembly also includes at least one spring disposed in the housing and cooperable with the movable mechanism. The tension sensing assembly includes at least one magnet disposed in the housing and a Hall effect sensor disposed in the housing and cooperable with the at least one magnet. The tension sensing assembly further includes a cable extending through the housing and cooperable with the movable mechanism to move the movable mechanism to deflect the at least one spring. The movable mechanism moves the at least one magnet relative to the Hall effect sensor to change an output of the Hall effect sensor to indicate a tension level in the seat restraint system when the at least one spring is deflected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary R. Greib, Thomas W. Miller
  • Patent number: 6679525
    Abstract: To effectively clear for a skier preparatory to a downhill skiing run other skiers that otherwise might be in harm's way, use is made of a metal rail of a rectangular shape in cross section marking the beginning of the ski run on which the skier balances on one leg using a bracket extending laterally of an outboard side of a ski boot that tracks along the top of the rail, wherein the skier's two skis are in the ready to complete the skiing run when the skier dismounts from the end of the rail onto the ski slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Egan Picken
  • Patent number: 6679526
    Abstract: A threaded joint for an oil well pipe is provided which prevents the occurrence of galling at the time of repeated tightening and loosening and which provides a high degree of air tightness and has excellent galling resistance and air tightness without using a liquid lubricant such as a compound grease. 1. A lubricating film of an inorganic polymeric compound which has an M (metal element)—O (oxygen) backbone and has a solid lubricant dispersed therein is formed on a threaded portion or an unthreaded metal contact portion. 2. A phosphate film and the lubricating film of the inorganic polymeric compound is formed on the threaded portion or the unthreaded metal contact portion. 3. A Cu plating layer and the lubricating film of the inorganic polymeric compound or a lubricating film of a resin in which a solid lubricant is dispersed is formed on the threaded portion or the unthreaded metal contact portion. 4.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideo Yamamoto, Kazuyuki Nakasuji
  • Patent number: 6679527
    Abstract: A serviceable design for a pressure vessel or reservoir includes a removable retainer accessible from a location external to the reservoir. Many existing, commercially available components can be used with only slight modification while providing ease of access to repair/replace seal members if so desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: Fred Hoffman, Leonard Quinn
  • Patent number: 6679528
    Abstract: The device for quickly coupling a tube to an element comprises a tubular endpiece (1) subdivided along its axis (2) into a first portion (3) for connecting to the tube and a second portion (4) for coupling to the element (100), and fastening means (3.1, 15) for securing the tube to the endpiece and the endpiece to the element, the second portion (4) of the endpiece (1) possessing a groove (8) for receiving a sealing gasket (9). The endpiece (1) is fitted with a sleeve (10) for protecting the gasket (9), which sleeve is mounted to slide between a position in which it overlies the groove (8), thereby protecting the gasket (9), and a disengaged position which is offset relative to the groove (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Legris SA
    Inventor: Philippe Poder
  • Patent number: 6679529
    Abstract: An apparatus for establishing aseptic/sterile connections including a substantially flexible, substantially transparent sterile barrier enclosing a terminal end of a conduit and a resilient, deformable support card which further includes an adhesive perimeter covered by a release paper and a rolling membrane with a continuous, removable, yieldable, flexible strip material. A portion of the rolling membrane is removably adhered to the support card and overlies the end of the conduit. A force applied to the free end of the rolling membrane withdraws the entire rolling membrane to expose the end of the conduit so that an aseptic/sterile connection is achieved by adhering opposing support cards together, removing the rolling membrane to create a sterile corridor between a first sterile barrier and a second sterile barrier, and mating the terminal end of a first conduit and a second conduit together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventors: Theodore D. Johnson, Robin M. Boley-Johnson
  • Patent number: 6679530
    Abstract: This application reveals a gate latch assembly in which a pivoting bolt permits substantial misalignment occur between the bolt and latch members and yet permit successful latching of the assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Krynski
  • Patent number: 6679531
    Abstract: A vehicle compartment latch has a support that is fastened to a deck lid. A fork bolt is pivotally attached to the support and moved from an unlatched position to a latched position by a striker when the deck lid is closed. The fork bolt is held in the latched position by a moveable detent lever that is moved to a release position to release the fork bolt so that the deck lid can be opened. The closure latch includes a detent lock-out that holds the detent lever in the release position until the deck lid is opened once the fork bolt is released. The detent lock out includes a striker position lever that is moved to an engaged position by the striker being retained by the fork bolt and a detent pawl that holds the detent lever in the released position once the detent lever is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Lloyd Walker Rogers, Jr., Michael Antonio Ciavaglia, Michael Todd Moury, Mark Duane Nicholas
  • Patent number: 6679532
    Abstract: A vehicle door latch device comprises a pawl lever keeping engagement between a latch and a striker, an output member rotatable in an unlocking direction and in a locking direction by power of a motor and being restored to a neutral position by elasticity of a returning spring when the motor is turned off, a lock lever displaceable between an unlocked position and a locked position by directly receiving rotational movement of the output member, an open link switched between an operative position and a non-operative position by displacement of the lock lever. The open link is directly connected to the lock lever by way of no movable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Jiro Inoue
  • Patent number: 6679533
    Abstract: An apparatus, latch assembly, keeper and installation method for use in slidable partition applications utilize a keeper formed of first and second angle members that are secured together in an overlapping relationship to define a U-shaped channel within which is disposed a tubular guard projection for protecting a latch from tampering by unauthorized personnel. Optional guard members may also inhibit access to the U-shaped channel when the slidable partition is engaged in a closed orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Wirecrafters, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Gary M. Bruner, William J. Adams
  • Patent number: 6679534
    Abstract: A device including adjustably opposing jaws for grasping a lighting tube for insertion into or removal from a lighting fixture. The device includes a handle having a head bracket attached to or formed at a first end of the handle. The head bracket supports adjustably opposing jaws including a first jaw pivotally attached to the head bracket and a second jaw hingedly attached to the first jaw and thereby pivotably attached to the head bracket. A control rod is connected to the first and second jaws and may be used for rotation or pivotal movement of the opposing jaws relative to the head bracket by pushing or pulling the control rod, and adjustment of the distance between the faces of the opposing first and second jaws by rotation of the control rod about its longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Gene H. Schulte
  • Patent number: 6679535
    Abstract: This invention relates to a safety wheel, for a subway coach bogie, or the like, running on pneumatic tires, adapted to be interposed between a chassis of the bogie and a corresponding tire, said wheel presenting an outer peripheral zone having a braking portion as well as a guiding portion projecting radially outwardly from the braking portion, the hardness of the braking portion being much greater than the hardness of the guiding portion. This may be achieved for example by effecting a selective tempering of the braking portion by peripheral nozzles projecting a cooling liquid. This safety wheel is considerably longer lasting than those of the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignees: Alstom Holdings, Valdunes
    Inventors: Alain Landrot, François Demilly
  • Patent number: 6679536
    Abstract: A foldable and tumblable seat assembly includes a base having a front end and a rear end. The front end of the base is pivotally connected to a vehicle floor. A seat bottom frame having a front end and a rear end is also provided. The front end of the seat bottom frame is pivotally connected proximate the front end of the base. The seat assembly includes a lower arm having an upper end and a lower end. The lower end of the lower arm is pivotally connected proximate the rear end of the base. The invention also provides an upper arm having an upper end and lower end. The lower end of the upper arm is pivotally connected to the upper end of the lower arm. A seat back is attached to at least the upper arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Karl Otto Sonnenberg, Mohammad Saberan, Paul Castellani, Todd Jerome Gilson
  • Patent number: 6679537
    Abstract: A motorcycle windshield storage wall bracket for holding a removable motorcycle windshield is provided. The storage wall bracket has two elongated main frames, each elongated main frame having opposing ends that are extended perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the longitudinal main frame and which can accept the side pieces. The side pieces are attached to the ends utilizing nut and bolt assemblies. Between the side pieces and the ends of the main frames are rubber grommets. The removable motorcycle windshield is clipped onto the rubber grommets of the storage wall bracket and thereby is stored in a secure manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Richard D. Putnam, Jr.