Patents Issued in February 3, 2004
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Patent number: 6684501Abstract: A design and method for fabricating a foil heat sink including a fin body, wherein the fin body includes a plurality of heat sink fins having a fin head and a fin foot and wherein the plurality of heat sink fins are disposed in a parallel fashion so as to form a plurality of horizontal channels between the plurality of heat sink fins, a fin support, wherein the fin support includes a plurality of fin support structures disposed between the plurality of heat sink fins so as to separate the plurality of heat sink fins and wherein the plurality of fin support structures are disposed adjacent to the fin head so as to form a plurality of vertical channels between the plurality of heat sink fins, and a fin base, wherein the fin base includes a plurality of fin spacers disposed between the plurality of heat sink fins so as to separate the plurality of heat sink fins and wherein the plurality of fin spacers are disposed so as to be adjacent to the fin foot.Type: GrantFiled: March 25, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Michael J. Ellsworth, Jr., Egidio Marotta, Budy D. Notohardjono, Roger R. Schmidt, Prabjit Singh
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Patent number: 6684502Abstract: A method for aligning a circular core. The method has a work station which defines an inner chucking portion being movable between a lower position and an upper position and a retracted position and an expanded position. The work station defines an upper portion being movable between a first position and a second position and a loading position and a clamping position. The clamping position has a plurality of positions. The circular core being aligned during at least a portion of the plurality of positions. And, the work station having a welding station.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Solar Turbines IncInventors: Douglas R. Ervin, Leonard Holman, Robert M. Jones
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Patent number: 6684503Abstract: A method of manufacturing a printhead assembly includes selecting a printhead sub-assembly, the printhead sub-assembly comprising a printhead chip and a film electrically connected to the printhead chip. The printhead sub-assembly is attached to a printhead molding and a cover molding to form a print module. An ink reservoir sub-assembly is formed and a plurality of the printhead modules are attached to the ink reservoir sub-assembly in end-to-end relationship. Ink is charged into the reservoir sub-assembly and the completed assembly can be tested.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2000Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty LtdInventors: Kia Silverbrook, Tobin Allen King, Garry Raymond Jackson
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Patent number: 6684504Abstract: An imageable support matrix for printhead nozzle plates and a method for manufacturing the printhead. The ink jet printhead comprises a substrate including an ink via therein; a first layer of imageable material, the first layer of imageable material having ink conducting voids therein and defining support structures adjacent the ink via; and a second layer of imageable material disposed on the first layer of imageable material, the second layer of imageable material including ink jet nozzles therein. The method includes providing a substrate; applying a first layer of imageable material on the substrate; masking the applied first layer of imageable material; and developing the masked first layer of imageable material to provide ink conducting voids in the first layer of imageable material and hardened areas of support.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Lexmark International, Inc.Inventors: Carl Edmond Sullivan, Herbert Gordon Toews, III
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Patent number: 6684505Abstract: In a bumper bar for vehicles, the bar is extended in one dimension, has a closed cross-section and two ends and includes at least one front flange, one rear flange, one top side and one bottom side. The bumper bar has at least one part of the rear flange, lying along the bar, in contact with at least one part of the front flange, also lying along the bar. In the method for manufacturing the bumper bar, the at least one part of the rear flange is wholly or partially pressed in towards the at least one part of the front flange.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Accra Teknik ABInventors: Anders Sundgren, Mats Lindberg, Göran Berglund
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Patent number: 6684506Abstract: One or more force application members (e.g., a force transmission member and/or a hydraulic force application member) may be employed to provide a desired adjustment (e.g., a preload and/or a compression) to an adjustable spacer of a bearing assembly. The hydraulic force application member may provide a first stage of the adjustment to the spacer, and the force transmission member may be threadingly rotated to apply a second stage of the adjustment to the spacer. An additional force application member may (e.g., contemporaneously) oppose at least one of the force application members in the providing of the adjustment to the spacer. This opposing force may cause a gap between certain surfaces (e.g., in a press) until the adjustment to the spacer is completed. The closure of the gap may serve to indicate the completion of the desired adjustment to the spacer. A housing rotatable on a portion of the bearing assembly may be prevented from rotating at the closure of the gap.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2003Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: John E. Rode
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Patent number: 6684507Abstract: By providing a dual cutting head module which is constructed for precisely cutting beards and mustaches in a wide variety of alternate widths using one cutting blade, while also trimming and cutting nose/ear hair using a second cutting blade, an easily employed, dependable, reliable, multi-purpose beard/mustache and nose/ear hair trimming system is achieved. In one embodiment, the dual cutting blade head member is constructed for removable mounted engagement with the support base, as well as being arcuately pivotable relative thereto, enabling either of the two desired cutting blades to be moved into the operating position whenever desired by the user. In an alternate embodiment, the dual cutting blade head member is mounted to the support base for pivotable movement only, enabling the desired multi-purpose use and operation to be provided, with reduced simplicity in manufacturing.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2003Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Remington Corporation, L.L.C.Inventors: Tung Yan Lau, John Wilcox
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Patent number: 6684508Abstract: A shaving head comprises a cutting member a hair manipulator. The cutting member has a cutting edge which extends in a direction perpendicular to a shaving direction of the shaving head. The hair manipulator is arranged in front of the cutting edge, seen in the shaving direction, and can be driven in a direction parallel to the cutting edge. Hairs trapped by the hair manipulator are moved along the cutting edge while being cut, so that the cutting forces in the shaving direction are reduced. The cutting member can also be driven in a direction parallel to the cutting edge such that, seen in this direction, the cutting member and the hair manipulator move in opposite directions for a longer period of time than in equal directions. In this manner the cutting member has a stretching effect on the skin present immediately in front of the cutting edge, and said stretching effect of the cutting member intensifies a similar stretching effect of the hair manipulator.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2000Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Rudolf Heinrich Brzesowsky, Andreas Johannes Garenfeld, Lucien Ferdinand Anna Douven, Jasper Zuidervaart
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Patent number: 6684509Abstract: A shaving apparatus includes a short-hair cutter unit and a long-hair cutter unit. The long-hair cutter unit includes an outer cutter with slits and segments and an inner cutter that is movable in a vertical direction by means of a carrier structure. The outer cutter has comb elements that are associated with the comb elements of a threader comb. The comb elements of the threader comb are movable jointly with the comb elements of the outer cutter in a vertical direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2000Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Braun GmbHInventors: Bernhard Best, Ingeborg Gudat, Rainer Ontl, Matthias Wetzel
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Patent number: 6684510Abstract: A further folding knife which automatically locks upon being moved to the open position. The knife includes a blade having a tang with a ledge portion defined in an upper region of the tang for receipt of a sliding bolt. The bolt is provided for sliding movement within a channel defined in the handle, and the bolt is urged forwardly towards the tang of the blade by a bolt spring, such as a coil spring. A band is connected at one end to the bolt, and the other end of the band is connected to a spool, which is carried for rotation within the handle. The spool can be rotated with respect to the handle to cause a winding of the band thereon, which in turn causes retraction of the bolt, such that the blade can be pivoted out of a locked extended position, towards a retracted position.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Walter W. Collins
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Patent number: 6684511Abstract: A hair clipping device includes a housing, a bladeset engageable upon the housing and including at least one stationary blade and at least one moving blade configured for reciprocal movement relative to the at least one stationary blade. The stationary blade has a first cutting edge and a second cutting edge, the at least one moving blade including a first moving edge configured for reciprocal movement relative to the first cutting edge, and a second moving edge configured for reciprocal movement relative to the second cutting edge. The housing defines a cutting location for the blades and the bladeset is rotatably engageable on the housing between a first position in which the first edges are employed, and a second position in which the second edges are employed. The housing encloses an apparatus for creating a vacuum, and defines a vacuum intake.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2000Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Wahl Clipper CorporationInventors: James Edward McCambridge, Jon Thomas Freas, Jason M. Long, Walter Francovich
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Patent number: 6684512Abstract: The present invention is a rolling device for cutting sheet material including a planar body member supported vertically on wheeled axles oriented perpendicularly to the vertical planar body member. The planar body member includes a cutting notch and a contained cutting blade member with a cutting edge exposed within the cutting notch. A handle member is secured to the planar body member and extends upwardly opposite the wheeled axles. A crossbar can be attached to the handle member. A user grasps the handle member, or crossbar, and rolls the planar body member forward on the wheeled axles to cut a sheet of material passing into the cutting notch.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Kathryn M. Bareis
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Patent number: 6684513Abstract: A razor blade including a substrate with a cutting edge defined by a sharpened tip and adjacent facets, a layer of hard coating on the cutting edge, an overcoat layer of a chromium containing material on the layer of hard carbon coating, and an outer layer of polytetrafluoroethylene coating over the overcoat layer.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2000Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: The Gillette CompanyInventors: Colin John Clipstone, Steve Hahn, Neville Sonnenberg, Charles White, Andrew Zhuk
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Patent number: 6684514Abstract: A center marking assemblage or kit consisting of a stylus retaining quill having an upper end and a lower end; a stylus having an upper driving end and a lower scribing end, the stylus being slidably mounted within the stylus retaining quill, a group of differently sized scribing end centering guides, each guide among the group having a lower circular diameter matching a common drill bit size; and consisting of quick disconnect couplings integral with the lower end of the stylus retaining quill and with the upper ends of the scribing end centering guides, such couplings allowing such guides to be selectively and alternately attached to and removed from the lower end of the stylus retaining quill.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Robert Welch
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Patent number: 6684515Abstract: A hacksaw weight having a pair of axially aligned saw engagement members adjustably secured to one another by an extending threaded support shaft. A threaded engagement-retaining fitting can be selectively positioned on the threaded support shaft with a retaining disk and registration pin positioned thereon for engagement with aligned notches in the respective engagement members. The weight can be selectively secured in multiple positions on both the hacksaw frame and blade.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: William G. Clark
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Patent number: 6684516Abstract: A wheel alignment adjustment system includes sensing apparatus for sensing alignment characteristics of a vehicle to be aligned, and a memory for storing alignment specifications for a plurality of vehicles and alignment adjustment parts. A fixture is provided to secure the sensing apparatus to a wheel hub of the vehicle upon removal of the vehicle wheel rim and tire assembly, and a logic circuit is provided to determine, from sensed alignment characteristics, and corresponding alignment specifications, an adjustment to alter the vehicle alignment characteristics. A display is also included for displaying to a user a representation of the determined alignment.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Hunter Engineering CompanyInventors: David A. Voeller, Scott Hillman
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Patent number: 6684517Abstract: A device for determining geometrical defects in a vehicle wheel comprises, for measuring the eccentricity of the wheel rim (5) and of the wheel (4), means (7) to be positioned in contact alternately with the tyre (6) and with the wheel rim (5) of the wheel of which the eccentricity is to be measured, a sensor (8) for measuring the angular position assumed by said means (7) about a fixed reference point (9), and means for associating and processing the data measured by said means (7) and by said sensor (8) to determine the angle through which the tyre (6) must be rotated on the wheel rim (5) to compensate their errors of shape. Said angular sensor (8) comprises a fixed part (80) carried by a shaft (23) associated with self-centering support means (21, 19, 200, 203) arranged to position it exactly coaxial with said wheel rim, and a movable part (81) rotatably mounted on said shaft (23).Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Corghi S.p.A.Inventor: Remo Corghi
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Patent number: 6684518Abstract: A system and method for aligning an object to be hung on a wall and for determining the points upon the wall which will receive an anchor to secure the object.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Terry D. Voorhees
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Patent number: 6684519Abstract: It is a miter saw table that has adjustable measuring tapes. The tape sections can be calibrated so that the zero point on the tape is always set at the outer surface of the blade. This is done by using slidable wings that can be secured to a base. The wings a readjusted until the built-in tapes match a control tape. Once the wings are set, cuts can be made quickly by either setting a stop at the precise distance needed, or by sliding the board under the blade until the end of the board aligns with the desired measurement. The board can then be accurately cut without having to measure and mark the board first. Moreover, if the blade is changed during the course of work. The measuring system can be quickly re-calibrated to the thickness of the new blade and cuts can immediately be resumed.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Etienne McAllisterr
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Patent number: 6684520Abstract: Described are mask-alignment detection structures that measure both the direction and extent of misalignment between layers of an integrated circuit using resistive elements for which resistance varies with misalignment in one dimension. Measurements in accordance with the invention are relatively insensitive to process variations, and the structures using to take these measurements can be formed along with other features on an integrated circuit using standard processes. One embodiment of the invention may be used to measure misalignment between two conductive layers. Other embodiments measure misalignment between diffusion regions and conductors and between diffusion regions and windows through which other diffusion regions are to be formed. A circuit in accordance with one embodiment includes row and column decoders for independently selecting mask-alignment detection structures to reduce the number of test terminals required to implement the detection structures.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2000Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Xilinx, Inc.Inventors: Kevin T. Look, Shih-Cheng Hsueh
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Patent number: 6684521Abstract: A tool and method for installing siding panels in overlapped relation. The tool comprises a clamp and lip arrangement for clamping and supporting a panel on a previously installed panel, a handle extending from the clamp, a first gauge for setting the overlap between successive panels, a second gauge for marking or drilling nail installation locations, and an arrangement for changing the amount of overlap between successive panels. In use, one or more of the tools are clamped along the bottom edge of a panel being installed and the tool supported by the lip on the upper edge of the previously installed board, enabling the installer to temporarily tack the new panel in place. The tool(s) can then be removed from the new piece by twisting and pulling down on the handle portion. The second gauge is used to mark/drill the nail installation locations, prior to or after tacking.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Steve Rempe
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Patent number: 6684522Abstract: A special tape (22) for measuring blocks used in the construction of wood structures includes two special scales. A first scale has marks (32) spaced at 14½ inch intervals for making blocks for studs, and a second scale has marks (34) spaced at 22½ inch intervals for making blocks for rafters. The tape (22) is longitudinally placed along a two-by board (500) and marks (36) made on the two-by board (500) at the desired intervals of 14½ or 22½ inches. The two-by board (500) is then cut at the marks (36) to create the blocks, which are then placed between the studs or rafters.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Sean K. Chilton
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Patent number: 6684523Abstract: Embodiments of the invention generally provide an apparatus for removing particles from a substrate surface, wherein the apparatus includes a substrate support member configured to support a substrate thereon, and a broadband actuator in mechanical communication with the substrate support member. Additionally, an air knife assembly may be positioned proximate a perimeter of the substrate surface, and is configured to deliver a laminar stream of air across the substrate surface in order to remove the dislodged contamination particles therefrom. Alternatively, a plasma source may be used to remove dislodged particles from the area proximate the substrate surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Joel Brad Bailey, Reginald W. Hunter, Steven Gianoulakis
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Patent number: 6684524Abstract: The invention relates to a lyophilization method which comprises the following steps: reducing the pressure in the drying chamber until the onset of a visible crystallization of the solvent at a temperature in the drying chamber which is above the solidification point of the preparation; reducing the temperature in the drying chamber to a temperature which is below the solidification point of the preparation or is identical to it, until completion of the crystallization of the solvent, resulting in a frozen solvent; and sublimation of the frozen solvent by means of reduced pressure.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Bayer AktiengesellschaftInventors: Bernd Sennhenn, Martin Kramer
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Patent number: 6684525Abstract: A method of removing water from a composition of matter comprises contacting a first composition of matter comprising water with a second composition of matter comprising: (1) at least one surfactant comprising at least one phosphate group and (2) a solvent comprising carbon dioxide, wherein at least a portion of the surfactant is soluble in the solvent, such that the at least one surfactant removes at least a portion of the water from the first compositionType: GrantFiled: September 25, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignees: University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina State UniversityInventors: Joseph M. DeSimone, Jason S. Keiper
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Patent number: 6684526Abstract: An improved process for removing trace solvent from a material comprises rewetting the product with water during the drying process. Finished products such as suramin are produced efficiently to a high quality on a factory scale.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Pfizer Science and Technology Ireland, LimitedInventor: William Tully
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Patent number: 6684527Abstract: A wheel includes a peripheral outer wall onto which are sequentially loaded veneer panels. The panels are held in place by cable runs against a heated outer surface of the wheel outer wall. Drying of the veneer panels occurs during wheel rotation. A heated fluid medium such as hot oil flows through an annular chamber of the wheel. A series of inlet conduits supply the annular chamber with the heated medium while return conduits return same to a heat source. Multiple tensioned runs of cable confine each panel in place during wheel rotation. A modified form utilizes a continuous screen for panel retention. A drive system imparts rotation to the wheel by powered components in contact with the wheel periphery. A panel pre-heater and jet dryers are supplemental heat sources.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Robert J. Wise
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Patent number: 6684528Abstract: A paint drying system for drying a painted body (4), such as a painted motor vehicle, includes a spraybooth (1) having an enclosure (2) through which air flows from an air inlet (6) to an air outlet (16, 18). The spraybooth (1) may also have columns of air jets (34) mounted in respective corners of the enclosure (2) to direct air obliquely at surfaces of the vehicle body (4). The system includes ionization members (33) for electrically charging this air supply. In a preferred embodiment the air is negatively charged by ionization members comprising one or elongate rods (33) mounted parallel with the columns of air jets (34). The spraybooth (2) may also have a control system (210) for controlling the paint drying system (4). The control system (210) has user-operable controls (234) to pre-select a predetermined parameter/combination of parameters and thus control the characteristics of a respective drying stage or cycle which parameters, e.g. temperature, vary with time.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Neil Morrison
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Patent number: 6684529Abstract: A manually operated vehicle blow-drying device having a swingable overhead boom and an air supply hose extending down from a distal end of the boom.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventors: James T. Morris, Dennis D. Evans, Duane A. Kent
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Patent number: 6684530Abstract: A moisture and temperature regulating insole for a shoe. The shoe includes a body having a cover and a base layer connected to the cover, and a sole having a base connected to the body and an expansive foam between the body and the base. The insole includes an absorbent layer, an elastic layer, and a closure layer. The insole is connected to the body and to the sole such that the insole absorbs the moist air within the shoe during an advance phase of the foot when the shoe is detached from the ground or floor and delivers the absorbed air with a lower content of moisture and temperature during the support phase of the foot when the shoe is supported on the ground or floor, in part to the environment and in part to the shoe body.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Asesorfas e Inversiones Santa Francisca LimitadaInventor: Alfonso Andrés Swett Opazo
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Patent number: 6684531Abstract: This invention is a spring shoe whose sole is a structure constrained to compress without tilting. This optimally simple, anti-tilt, compressible structure comprises overlapping diamond and parallelogram linkages, which constrain an upper plate from tilting as it moves vertically up and down with respect to a lower plate. Applications include a space shoe with push-off means for natural foot action. Here, a minimal number of springs and stops can be changeably incorporated in the sole to optimi8ze walking and running performance. A heel hugger mechanism ensures that the shoe hugs the heel of the wearer during swing phase. A flex-rigger prevents sideways rollover and sprained ankles. The first shoe embodiment has springs at shoe level to minimize device weight at foot level. The shoe is energy-efficient as it returns maximum impact energy to the runner during thrust at toe-off.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Brian G. Rennex
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Patent number: 6684532Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed having an upper, a foot-supporting member, and a sole structure. The foot-supporting member includes a heel region located at a greater elevation than a forefoot region, thereby defining a recess under the heel region. The sole structure includes a midsole that forms a protrusion on the interior of the footwear. The protrusion mates with the recess to provide support for the heel region. The foot-supporting member may also incorporate pronation control characteristics, including a downward cant from a medial to a lateral side of the foot-supporting member and a region of reduced support generally underlying the first metatarsal. To further reduce the rate of pronation, the sole structure includes a region in the rear-lateral corner that is more compressible than other areas of the sole structure.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Nike, Inc.Inventors: Pamela S. Greene, Kevin W. Hoffer, Sergio G. Lozano, Michael Martindale, Gordon A. Valiant
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Patent number: 6684533Abstract: A pivotal back for a sandal style shoe with a sole is adapted to be pivotally attached to the sole (41). The pivotal back is composed of a back (10), a pivot device attached to the back (10) and a hinge (30) attached to the sole (41) to support the pivot device. The back (10) can be pivoted out from the sandal style shoe to release constraints on a foot so a person wearing the sandal style shoe can conveniently put on or take off the sandal style shoe.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Cheng-Wen Su
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Patent number: 6684534Abstract: A step-in binding system (20, 220) including a binding (24, 224) and an engagement member (26, 226) for securing a snowshoe to footwear (22). In one embodiment, the binding includes a pivotable latch (78) and a fixed latch (80), each having a pair of catches (116) for engaging a corresponding receiver (110) on the engagement member. The pivotable latch is pivotable between a closed position (CP) and an open position (OP) and is biased into the closed position by a helical rotational spring (100). The binding further includes an adjustment mechanism (32) extending between a toe member (28) and a heel member (30) that allows the distance between the toe and heel members to be selectively changed by a user. In another embodiment, the binding includes a pair of pivotable latches (278, 280), each biased into its closed position by two torsional rotational springs (300).Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: K2 Snowshoes, Inc.Inventor: David J. Dodge
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Patent number: 6684535Abstract: A shield configuration for a snowthrowing discharge chute, which may be pivoted out of the way for clean-out purposes while reducing the opportunity for the user to extend a body part or other object into the chute while the engine is running. The apparatus makes a clean-out rod readily available to the user just after the shield has been opened.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Snapper, Inc.Inventors: Frank H. Hancock, Stephen C. Price
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Patent number: 6684536Abstract: The planting of individual sea grass plants or small bunches of sea grass plants is known in the prior art. In the prior art these plantings are made either manually or with appropriate machinery. This invention deals with the digging, transporting and planting of large slabs of sea grass. The process comprises the steps of digging a slab of sea grass, transporting the slab of sea grass to a new location, digging a furrow with the same apparatus that is used to dig the slab of sea grass and depositing the slab of sea grass in the furrow.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: James F. Anderson
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Patent number: 6684537Abstract: An excavator such as a backhoe has a group of hoses variable in length when a boom moves up and down. To avoid the group of hoses bulging to obstruct view when the boom is raised to an uppermost position, the group of hoses has a length absorbing portion disposed in a swivel base instead of being disposed on a boom as in the prior art.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Kubota CorporationInventors: Toshiki Ichikawa, Takeshi Ikumura
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Patent number: 6684538Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a cutting tooth for a trencher chain. The tooth includes a base portion aligned along a first plane. The base portion includes structure for allowing the cutting tooth to be connected to the trencher chain. The tooth also includes a distal portion that is generally obliquely aligned with respect to the first plane. A curved transition is located between the distal portion and the base portion. The curved transition curves away from the first plane and at least partially forms a cupped portion that extends from a leading end to a trailing end of the cutting tooth. The tooth also includes a hardened tip positioned at a region of the leading end that is located farthest from the first plane. The leading edge includes more than one effective configuration.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Vermeer Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Larry James Rumer, John H. Walgren, Jerome Robillard
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Patent number: 6684539Abstract: A cladding in a vaporization chamber of an iron, the cladding being composed of a first layer composed essentially of sodium silicate, and at least locally a second layer composed of a fiber mat or a hydrophilic fabric, wherein the cladding has a surface treated with a treatment product containing phosphorus and having an acid group.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Seb S.A.Inventors: Henry Boulud, Bertrand Couet
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Patent number: 6684540Abstract: A self-storing ironing board has a casing with oppositely disposed tracks in lower portions of its side walls. A horizontal rod is fixed to one end of a platform with the ends of the rod extending to the tracks. A linkage connects an intermediate portion of the platform to a lower end of the casing. As the rod slides in the tracks, the platform rotates between a horizontal ironing position and an almost vertical storage position. The center of gravity of the combined linkage and platform passes rearwardly of the rotational axis as the platform approaches the almost vertical storage position. A pair of lining inserts disposed in the tracks and slidably engaged with the rod ends have a coefficient of friction such that the platform is gravitationally pulled into and held in its almost vertical storage position when the center of gravity passes rearwardly of the rotational axis.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Hide-Away Ironing Boards, Inc.Inventor: Norman J. Tufts
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Patent number: 6684541Abstract: A secure hand-held prayer scroll is provided for creating and retaining writings such as prayers. A replaceable paper webbing is retained on, and in use unwound from, a rotary spool within a hollow housing. To rewind the paper webbing onto the spool, a locking wheel is unlocked by use of a button. A retraction spring and comfort spring balance the return force of the paper webbing. A pen may be stored within the article for writing purposes in use. A key activates a locking device to prevent unwanted release of the paper webbing.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Byron Ashley McPhaul
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Patent number: 6684542Abstract: A system for mounting a flexible sheeting material to a substrate is comprised of a number of frame sections including an elongate support member secured to the substrate and an elongate connector member secured to an end portion of the flexible sheeting material, with the support member and the connector member including interlocking anchor elements capable of forming a releasable interconnection therebetweeen. The support member and the connector member each include a tool engaging portion defining oppositely facing bearing surfaces. A tool is provided which includes a first engaging surface positioned in abutment against one of the bearing surfaces, and a second engaging surface positioned in abutment against the opposite bearing surface. Displacement of the engaging surfaces along the bearing surfaces tensions the flexible sheeting material to a taut state, with the interlocking anchor ribs forming a releasable interconnection to maintain the flexible sheeting material in the taut state.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2003Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Image One, LLCInventors: Frank I. Green, III, Christopher J. Lewis
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Patent number: 6684543Abstract: A shoe mounted emergency identification information carrying assembly and method are provided. In a preferred embodiment, one or more members are provided to loop around shoe components such as the shoe tongue, laces, latches, or the like. The one or more members are preferably affixed together to form a looping member that can be inserted underneath the shoe components and then over the shoe components. In one embodiment, the one or more members may be affixed together at an overlap region such that the opposite sides of the overlap region are secured and the inner portion thereof can be opened to receive or loop around one or more shoe components, straps, or buckles. At least one fastener is also provided to fix the looping member in position around the shoe components by forming a closed loop. An interior surface of the looping member is not visible once the closed loop is formed and a detailed emergency identification information label is positioned there.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Mary Lynn Fernau
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Patent number: 6684544Abstract: A magnetic card holder is disclosed that allows users to display cards on their clothing comfortably and without damage to their clothing. Lightweight, thin, and strong neodymium magnets used in this card holder provide a desirable combination of weight, size, and performance. The magnetic forces produced by the included magnets are confined substantially within the magnetic card holder and therefore have no damaging magnetic effects on cards placed in or near the card holder.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: J.A.M. Plastics, Inc.Inventor: Bruce J. Buettell
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Patent number: 6684545Abstract: Picture frame with framing bars connected to a base frame and with a device for mounting a picture which can be fitted within the base frame with lateral and rearward clearance to its framing bars on the base frame by means of retaining/spacer devices. The device for mounting a picture has a first profiled frame for holding a glass plate or transparent plastic plate and/or a passe-partout and/or a picture, a second profiled frame, whose external dimensions are smaller than the external dimensions of the first profiled frame, connected to and arranged beneath the first profiled frame, and a pressure plate pressing against the glass plate or transparent plastic plate and/or the passe-partout and/or the picture. The retaining/spacer devices can be inserted into the second profiled frame and connected to the framing bars of the base frame.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Wohlleb Rahmen KGInventor: Herbert Wohlleb
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Patent number: 6684546Abstract: A printed decorating painting includes a box-like body having a thickness, and including a printing surface that is zero diopter processed and a frame portion surrounding the printing surface. The frame portion extends to a periphery of the box-like body. The frame portion includes multiple bright portions partially printed on the frame portion and the painting portion includes multiple shadow portions printed on the painting portion and each adjacent to a corresponding one of the bright portions of the frame portion to provide a three-dimensional vision sense between the painting portion and the frame portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2003Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Deng Chi Chang
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Patent number: 6684547Abstract: A recoil dampening assembly for a firearm that includes a bolt assembly and a stock that is linearly moveable with respect to the bolt assembly, includes a plurality of elastically deformable shock-absorbing members having a compression cavity defined therein, and a plurality of rigid spacers interspaced between the shock absorbing members. The plurality of shock absorbing members and rigid spacers are adapted to be placed between a bolt assembly of a firearm and a stock of a firearm. The plurality of shock-absorbing members and rigid spacers are adapted to dampen the recoil as transmitted from the bolt assembly to the stock when a charge that is in the firearm is ignited by allowing each shock absorbing member to at least partially compress within the compression zone.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Assignee: Cape AerospaceInventor: Charles Richard Poff, Jr.
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Patent number: 6684548Abstract: A locking assembly for securing an object to a wall comprising a sleeve, a fastening assembly and a lock. The sleeve includes a body, an axial bore and an opening through the body. The axial bore includes a internal fastener assembly contact surface. The fastening assembly is capable of extending through the sleeve and into engagement with a wall, and includes a collar and a threaded fastener. The collar includes an axial bore mating surface. The threaded fastener includes a tool engagement region and a wall engagement region. The lock includes a portion which is positionable through the at least one opening in the body. The internal fastener assembly contact surface and the axial bore mating surface interface to facilitate rotative and pivotable relative movement of the sleeve and the fastening assembly. In turn, the retained movement of the fastening assembly with rotation of the sleeve is precluded.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2003Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Victor M. Petrus
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Patent number: 6684549Abstract: A recoil apparatus is provided for a firearm comprising a base portion and shoulder member coupled to a base portion and movable longitudinally with respect to the base portion upon firing of the firearm. A magnet system disposed in the base portion comprises a first magnet, a second magnet, and a third magnet. The first magnet provides a magnetic attractive force that prevents relative movement between the shoulder member and the base portion when the firearm is being aimed prior to firing. The second and third magnets are positioned in a repelling configuration with each other such that upon firing, the recoil of the firearm is dampened by the repulsive forces produced by the second and third magnets.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2002Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Elmore J. Bragg
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Patent number: 6684550Abstract: A mounting system for clay target thrower and rifle/pistol rest (10) having a hollow extender (12) which has an elongated square extender male member (12A) having an extender male member opening (12AA) therethrough. An extender horizontal member (12B) is securely fastened at a front distal end to a rear distal end of the extender male member (12A). An extender vertical member (12C) is securely fastened at a bottom distal end to a rear distal end of the extender horizontal member (12B). A mounting system for clay target thrower and rifle/pistol rest (10) having a holder (14) removably insertable into the extender (12). The holder (14) comprises a holder platform (14A) securely attached to a top distal end of a holder upper member (14B) which is attached at a lower distal end to a top distal end of a holder lower member (14C) having a holder ring (14D) therebetween. The holder platform (14A) comprises at least one holder platform opening (14AA) therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2001Date of Patent: February 3, 2004Inventor: Stephen D. Highfill