Patents Issued in February 17, 2004
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Patent number: 6691409Abstract: A circuit board is configured so as to include not less than two wiring layers, an insulator layer for electric insulation between the wiring layers, and an inner-via-hole conductive member provided in the insulator layer in a thickness direction of the insulator layer, for electric connection between the wiring layers. The insulator layer is made of a composite material containing an organic resin and a material having a smaller thermal expansion coefficient than that of the organic resin, and includes a surface part, a core part, and a surface part laminated in the stated order, the surface part having a high content of the organic resin, the core part having a low content of the organic resin. The wiring layers have a land portion that is connected with the inner-via-hole conductive member, the land portion being embedded so as to be substantially in contact with the core part, and the inner-via-hole conductive member has a thickness substantially equal to a thickness of the core part.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takeshi Suzuki, Tatsuo Ogawa, Yoshihiro Bessho, Satoru Tomekawa, Yasuhiro Nakatani, Yoji Ueda, Susumu Matsuoka, Daizo Andoh, Fumio Echigo
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Patent number: 6691410Abstract: An inspection fixture and line is used to accurately determine the geometry and dimensional accuracy of a circular recuperator core. With the fixture and line inspection of a length, an inner diameter and an outer diameter of the circular recuperator core are completed. The method of using the fixture and the line further insures the concentricity of a donor inlet duct and a donor outlet duct.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Solar Turbines IncInventors: Charles W. Bucey, Gregory D. Gleason
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Patent number: 6691411Abstract: A method of installing a wastewater drain assembly for a bathtub by inserting an L-shaped drain pipe into a drain hole of a bathtub such that an annular flange on the drain pipe rests on a bottom wall of the bathtub. Slideably mounting a lock washer over the drain pipe and threadably tightening the lock washer against a lower surface of the bottom wall of a bathtub. Connecting the drain pipe to a drain system. Testing the drain assembly for water leaks. Finally, installing a drain closure into the upper end of the drain pipe.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: WCM Industries, Inc.Inventor: William T. Ball
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Patent number: 6691412Abstract: A method of producing a hose-connector assembly, including the steps of forming by extrusion an inner resin tube layer, forming by extrusion an outer rubber protector tube layer having substantially the same length as the inner resin tube layer, so as to cover the outer surface of the inner resin tube layer over the entire length of the inner resin tube layer, to obtain a laminar tubular blank consisting of the inner resin tube layer and the outer rubber protector tube layer, cutting the laminar tubular blank into pieces, and press-fitting an end portion of a tubular connector in each of at least one of the opposite end portions of the inner resin tube.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Takashi Ito
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Patent number: 6691413Abstract: An underdrain filtration system has improved perforation structure, the perforations being positioned to admit the filtrate into a plenum defined by elongated underdrain rib structures of the system. Instead of drilled or laser-cut holes or slits, the slits are formed by stamping discs from the stainless steel plate, such that the discs extend parallel to the surrounding flat area but are raised just sufficiently to define a plurality of slits under each disc, preferably two to four slits, each being an arc of slightly less than 180°, 120° or 90°, respectively. A pair of metal bridges remain to integrally connect the raised disc and the surrounding flat field. Consistent perforation width is achieved, at, for example, 0.010″ width varying by less than 0.001″ in either direction, improving consistency of pressure drop.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Enviroquip, Inc.Inventor: Gary D. Haggard
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Patent number: 6691414Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for the continuous coating and fabrication of spiraled steel rebar product for concrete structures. Specifically, methods and systems are provided by which linear uncoated rebar is supplied to a polymeric (preferably, epoxy) powder-coating unit whereby a substantially uniform coating layer of a polymeric material is applied onto the uncoated rebar to form a linear coated rebar; and thereafter the linear coated rebar is bent into a spiraled steel rebar product. The bending unit employed to bend the linear coated rebar includes a series of bending wheels having separated upstream and downstream bending wheels and a central bending wheel which is disposed between and below these upstream and downstream bending wheels. By bringing the linear coated rebar into contact with the series of bending wheels, the rebar may be bent gently into spiraled steel rebar product without damage to the polymeric surface coating.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Richard D. Harding
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Patent number: 6691415Abstract: A depilatory cream removal device for scraping off applied depilatory cream from the face and other parts of the body with the advantage of movement in any direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Gregory Quals
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Patent number: 6691416Abstract: A cutter for vehicle safety belts or the like includes a body having a head in an upper portion and a handle in a lower portion. The head has a blade base surface for a cover plate to be put thereon. The blade base surface is formed relatively lower for receiving the cover plate thereon. The cover plate can be pried open for renewal of a blade. A first blade groove for placing a blade for cutting and a second blade groove for placing another blade on standby are provided parallel to each other in the head. The handle is formed with a small recess on an upper front edge and a large recess on a lower front edge and has a tapered projection positioned between the two recesses for enabling a user to stably hold the handle conveniently.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Hsiu-Man Yu Chen
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Patent number: 6691417Abstract: A pruner attachment apparatus includes a body releasably attachable to a shoe of a power tool of the type having a reciprocating saw blade. The body includes a front face for engaging a workpiece. The pruner attachment apparatus further includes a hook member for engaging the workpiece. The hook member is laterally spaced from the saw blade of the tool and is mounted to the body for movement along a path between a first position and a second position. The path includes an upper curvilinear portion configured such that movement of the hook member from the first position to the second position positions the hook member completely behind an imaginary line in a common plane with the front face. A biasing mechanism biases the hook member to the second position.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: David C. Campbell, Angela M. Waldrop
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Patent number: 6691418Abstract: A circular saw including a frame, a drive means mounted to the frame coupled to a planar saw blade for rotation about a drive axis within a cutting plane and a base pivotably mounted to the frame about a first axis substantially parallel to the cutting plane and a second axis which is generally substantially parallel to the drive axis. In one aspect, the relative pivotal movement of the frame about the first axis is determined by a trim adjuster including disengageable position locator which is operable to provide a plurality of predetermined discrete engaged positions and a locking means for locking the position of the frame relative to the base over a continuous range of settings. The invention also provides a mounting assembly including a course adjustment means and a fine adjustment means to determine the pivotal movement of the frame about the second axis relative to the base.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Hills Industries LimitedInventors: George Lewin, Harry Szommer, Warren Brown
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Patent number: 6691419Abstract: A can opener includes a first lever, and a second lever pivotally connected to the first lever. The levers are in laid down position when a cutting wheel of the can opener is cutting a can. The first lever is equipped with a first wheel having domed protrusions spaced around the center. The second lever is equipped with a second wheel having main round recesses spaced around the center. Smaller round recesses and curved trenches are formed between the main recesses; the curved trenches are similar to annular trenches provided on trust block seating of thrust ball bearings. The first, and the second wheels are disposed face to face so as to help prevent change of position of the pivotal axis of the levers in the course of one of the levers moving relative to the other, helping the can opener operated with precision.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Alston Technologies Development Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kun-Jen Chang
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Patent number: 6691420Abstract: A laser line beam emitting apparatus provided hereto has accommodations of rough handling or quick operations, preferable for construction sites in use, having a gimbals mechanism, and a laser unit holder swingy held by the mechanism and having at least one laser unit provided thereto, wherein a mechanism for performing automatic relocation of the tilted holder to its desired position is provided. The mechanism for automatic location can perform from detection of the tilting to relocation of the tilted holder to its desired position at instant. It comprises a level sensor provided to the holder for detection of the tilting to output resultant signals, and a device for generation of thrust, which is constructed by a magnet and at least one coil circuit for generation of thrust going to a direction of elimination of tilting of the holder, wherein the signals from the sensor control conduction to the coils.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Audio-TechnicaInventor: Akihito Tamamura
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Patent number: 6691421Abstract: A novel apparatus and method for use in measuring surface slope is disclosed. In a preferred embodiment, the measurement apparatus includes a fluid case having an arch of flat segments forming a sloped ceiling. In another preferred embodiment, a smooth curve, instead of a series of flat segments, is formed by reducing the length, and increasing the number, of the constant slope flat segments. And in a preferred embodiment, the apparatus provides a mechanism for compensating for any expansion or contraction of the fluid in the fluid case. A method for measuring the slope of a surface includes providing a measurement apparatus, placing the measurement apparatus adjacent the surface and reading an indicator corresponding to the slope of the surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventors: Hans U. Roth, Martin Sachsenmaier
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Patent number: 6691422Abstract: A novel photographic cropping method and device, which may eliminate the need to cut or mark photos being cropped, is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2000Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Guy Aroch
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Patent number: 6691423Abstract: A miter gauge apparatus for use on a work surface having an alignment track is disclosed. The miter gauge apparatus may include a guide bar adapted to slidably fit within an alignment track, a miter housing secured to the guide bar, a fence mount configured to rotate about the entire periphery of the miter housing, and an expandable fence. The miter housing may include a disc assembly comprising an upper plate, a lower plate, and a slot therebetween. A cam post slidably disposed within the slot can be configured to fit within a cam post aperture disposed on the fence mount. A cam pin disposed within the fence mount can be engaged within an opening on the cam post to releasably secure the fence mount to the miter housing.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Bench Dog, Inc.Inventor: Norston Fontaine
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Patent number: 6691424Abstract: A displacement measuring device includes a body which is movable on a plurality of rails and driven by a first shaft. An extension portion is connected to the body and a second shaft connected to the body extends through the extension portion. A first gear and a second gear are respectively mounted to the first shaft and the second shaft. Both of the two gears are engaged with a rack. A spring is received in the extension portion and pushes the second gear so that the second gear is pushed toward the rack. The second gear is snugly engaged with the rack so that the tolerance therebetween is reduced. A counting member is connected to the second shaft so that the number of the revolution of the second gear is counted and the sum of the displacement of the object can be precisely calculated.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Yu-Lung Tung
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Patent number: 6691425Abstract: A tape measure comprises a housing having a bottom surface and a front surface substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface so that an opening is formed through a lower part of the front surface, a measuring tape strip elastically wound within the housing to become externally released through the opening. A hook having a vertical plate and a horizontal plate extending from a mid line of the inner surface of the vertical plate where the lower surface of the horizontal plate is attachedly layered on the tape strip such that the outer end of the tape strip abuts on the mid line. A support upwardly extends from the upper surface of the horizontal plate to become parallel to the vertical plate.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventors: Choon Nam Lee, Kyoung Soo Choi
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Patent number: 6691426Abstract: A tape measure comprises a housing having a bottom surface and a front surface substantially perpendicular to the bottom surface, a tape strip elastically wound within the housing to become released from the housing when required, and a tubular protrusion extending from between the bottom surface and the front surface to incorporate a tunnel therethrough. The tunnel is open into the housing and an upper covering of the tubular protrusion has an opening so that indicia of the tape strip are read from atop through the opening.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventors: Choon Nam Lee, Kyoung Soo Choi
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Patent number: 6691427Abstract: A low pressure, low air volume system for heating and drying concrete walls in a damp environment is disclosed. A wall unit consisting of a wall panel having a plurality of vertical grooves and ridges formed in a back surface, the ridges in contact with a concrete wall surface and the grooves forming a plurality of air channels in contact with the surface of the wall, ducts heated air across the concrete surface of the wall, evaporating moisture migrating through the wall. An upper and lower plenum connect the air channels of the wall unit with a remote system consisting of a dehumidifier and discharge pump, heating element and fans for moving air through the system, the dehumidifier removing the moisture from the air before recirculating it through the system.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2003Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventors: John P. Fernandes, David M. Swan
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Patent number: 6691428Abstract: A separator for removing contaminants from compressed air, the separator including an elongate enclosure having an inlet end and an opposite outlet end, the inlet end of the separator being in flow communication with a source of compressed air, the separator defining a first air flow path between the inlet and outlet ends of the separator and a second air flow path between the outlet end of the separator and a wall member positioned adjacent outlet end of the separator for being contacted by air exiting the outlet end of the separator, wherein air traveling in the first flow path undergoes a volumetric expansion and substantial change of direction as it exits the separator and enters the second air flow path and further undergoes a change of direction as it impacts the wall member.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Aircel CorporationInventor: Mahmoud A. Zarif
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Patent number: 6691429Abstract: There is provided a stand for use with a hand held hair dryer. The stand selectively cooperates with a handle of the hand held hair dryer to form a tripod and enable a user to operate the hand held hair dryer in a hands-free manner. The stand can telescopically cooperate with the hand held hair dryer in such a manner to allow the hand held hair dryer to be selectively, tilted, angled and/or positioned when rested on or supported against a surface. The stand provides a user with greater flexibility in use and enhances the effectiveness/efficiency of the hand held hair dryer.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Conair CorporationInventors: Vito James Carlucci, Jong Sik Lim, Henri Christophe Frederic Joseph Smal
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Patent number: 6691430Abstract: Liquid for prevention of substrate drying is supplied into a processing chamber so that a pool of the liquid is created as an anti-drying atmosphere in advance inside a processing chamber, and substrates, as they are dipped in the pool, are kept on stand-by in a substrate board. In this manner, air drying of the substrates which are kept on stand-by is prevented. When the number of the substrates in the substrate board reaches a certain number, the anti-drying atmosphere is removed from the processing chamber, which is followed by introduction of an SCF into the processing chamber and supercritical drying (high pressure drying) of all of the plurality of substrates inside the processing chamber, namely, batch supercritical drying.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2003Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kimitsugu Saito, Yusuke Muraoka, Ryuji Kitakado, Takashi Miyake, Tomomi Iwata, Ikuo Mizobata
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Patent number: 6691431Abstract: An apparatus and method for improving the appearance of a dancer's feet. By attaching a pad that has a curved top surface to the top of a dancer's foot, the shape of the top of the dancer's foot is more aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, the arch on the bottom of the foot appears more marked. The present invention can be employed with a wide variety of dance shoes and outfits to improve the appearance of a dancer's feet. The pad is formed from a resilient and deformable material and is sized to substantially cover the top of the foot. The pad has an edge portion sized to be concealed under the border and ribbons of a dance shoe so that the existence of the pad cannot easily be detected. When worn, the shape and thickness of the pad augments the appearance of the top and bottom of the foot.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Sylvia Ortiz Farrior
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Patent number: 6691432Abstract: A shoe having an upper and a sole, the sole including a wear sole and an intermediary sole. The intermediary sole includes an upper surface and a bottom surface, a rear zone provided to support the user's heel zone, and a front zone provided to support the user's forefoot zone. In the front zone, the upper surface includes a plurality of top protuberances and the bottom surface includes a plurality of bottom protuberances, each top protuberance of at least one portion of the plurality of top protuberances is vertically aligned with a bottom protuberance so as to constitute shock-absorbing cylindrical studs that are linked to one another only by their central portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Salomon S.A.Inventor: Benoît Masseron
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Patent number: 6691433Abstract: An automated tightening shoe includes a sole, an upper, a closure member, a tightening mechanism and a drive unit. The tightening mechanism includes a first fastener mounted on the upper, and a second fastener connected to the closure member and capable of removable engagement with the first fastener so as to retain releasably the closure member at a tightened state. The drive unit is mounted inside the sole, and is operable so as to pull the second fastener toward the first fastener in order to inter-engage the first and second fasteners, thereby resulting in automated tightening of the shoe.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Kun-Chung Liu
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Patent number: 6691434Abstract: The invention relates to a sports shoe, especially for downhill skiing, ski-touring, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, roller-skating or ice-skating. The inventive shoe essentially comprises a rigid underframe (11), which is located below the ankle of the wearer, two connecting links (30, 31) between the underframe and the leg of the wearer, and two casings (14, 15), which are arranged in such a way that they can firmly link the leg of the wearer to the connecting links. The underframe (11) comprises a front housing (18) and a rear housing (19). The housings are arranged in such a way that they can receive a soft inner boot (12). The underframe (11) also comprises shoulders (17, 17′), which enable the shoe (10) to be fixed in a conventional binding. The inner boot (12) is able to move inside the underframe.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Jean-François Couturier
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Patent number: 6691435Abstract: A snow plow system for use with a skid steer loader includes a V-plow blade that is repositionable by a hydraulic actuator operated by pressurized hydraulic fluid supplied to the actuator from the auxiliary hydraulic output of the skid steer loader. A normally open valve diverts hydraulic fluid away from the actuator whenever the plow blade is not being repositioned, enabling the auxiliary hydraulic system to be maintained actuated. The valve is operated to a closed condition by a wireless remote control receiver which receives coded radio frequency signals transmitted by a wireless, portable, battery-powered transmitter locatable within or outside of a cab of the vehicle, or by a voice-actuated control. A mounting panel of the snow plow system includes an anti-slip surface, providing footing for an operator upon entering or exiting the cab of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Sno-Way International, Inc.Inventors: Lynn W. Schultz, Joseph J. Graser, Terry C. Wendorff
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Patent number: 6691436Abstract: A hand-held wand is disclosed for exposing buried objects such as utility lines or the like. The wand comprises an elongated, hollow tube having upper and lower ends with first and second water supply conduits being positioned adjacent the exterior surface of the tube. The lower end of the first water supply conduit has a digging nozzle mounted thereon. The lower end of the second water supply conduit extends upwardly into the lower end of the tube to create a vacuum or suction within the lower end of the hollow tube to remove muddy water from the hole being dug. A two-way valve is connected to the upper ends of the first and second water supply lines for alternately delivering water to the water supply conduits. The intake side of the two-way valve is in fluid communication with a source of high pressure water. The upper end of the hollow tube has a mud take-off hose connected thereto which may be utilized to convey the muddy water to a location remote from the hole being dug or to a container.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Franklin J. Chizek, Sr.
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Patent number: 6691437Abstract: A level sensing system for use with an excavating machine includes a light receiving sensor, mounted on the dipper stick of the machine, and an inclinometer, also mounted on the dipper stick of the machine. The sensor and inclinometer provide indications of the relative location of a beam of light and the inclination of the dipper stick. The inclinometer includes a gyroscopic inclination sensor and an accelerometer arrangement for sensing acceleration due to gravity and providing a static vertical reference. A position determining circuit is responsive to the sensor and the inclinometer and calculates the position of a pivot joint on the dipper stick to which a digging bucket is attached. The beam of light is a beam of laser light which is projected by a laser transmitter. An angle-measuring sensor may be provided for measuring the angular orientation between the dipper stick and a cutting edge of the bucket.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2003Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Trimble Navigation LimitedInventors: Jerald W. Yost, Richard M. Pope, Jr.
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Patent number: 6691438Abstract: A quick-coupler for operably connecting a bucket or other implement to the arm or dipper-stick of an excavator, backhoe and/or other machine includes a first and second laterally spaced-apart rib assemblies. A first upper bearing plate is connected to the first rib assembly and a second upper bearing plate connected to the second rib assembly. At least one of the first and second upper bearing plates and the lower bearing plate includes a tab projecting outwardly therefrom that is inserted into a corresponding tab-opening defined in one of the first and second rib assemblies. A lock member is slidably positioned in the slot, and an actuator is located in the space between the first and second rib assemblies. The actuator is operably coupled to the lock member for moving the lock member between first and second operative positions. A method of constructing a coupler is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: JRB Company, Inc.Inventor: Ray S. Fatemi
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Patent number: 6691439Abstract: A full-shrink labeled container has an opening sealed with a plug provided with a pull-up part for unsealing, a body to which a shrink label having a heat shrinkability is applied, and a neck having the circumference shorter than that of the body. The shrink label covers the container from the lower end part to the upper end part, also the pull-up part, and is formed with tear-off means capable of exposing the pull-up part.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2000Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignees: Asahi Breweries, Ltd., Fuji Seal, Inc.Inventors: Takashi Miyashita, Takeshi Haraya, Kazunori Kunitake, Kazuo Okada, Eiji Sawa, Makoto Fukuhara, Tetsuo Hata
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Patent number: 6691440Abstract: Device for artificially simulating a fire, in particular for use in the hearth of an open fireplace, having a housing in which, in order to simulate a fire, an artificial fuel bed into which moving, in particular strip-shaped, tongue-shaped or tab-shaped flame simulation elements whose image is reflected into the field of vision, and at least one light source for illuminating the fuel bed and/or the flame simulation elements are arranged, the flame simulation elements being arranged on at least one moving, motor-driven carrier element.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Glen Dimplex Deutschland GmbHInventors: Günter Petz, Martin Betz, Günter Lunscher
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Patent number: 6691441Abstract: A device for displaying a set of various flexible posters is described. The device includes a set of receiver drums on which the posters are respectively at least partially wound, a display window and a positioning mechanism for positioning each poster of the set in one of a stowed position in which the poster cannot be seen through the display window and an operative position in which the poster is aligned with the display window. The posters which are in the operative position lie in spaced apart parallel planes. The positioning mechanism comprises a set of motors, each motor of the set being associated with a respective one of the receiver drum, and a programmable control assembly able to send independent control signals to the motors so that any display order is achievable through programming the control assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 1999Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Mobil'Affiche InternationalInventors: Alain Crivelli, Remy Kerouanton, Yann Kerouanton
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Patent number: 6691442Abstract: A clipboard apparatus includes a compact integrated slide viewer. The clipboard section comprises a top layer, a middle layer and a bottom layer plus a document holding, spring loaded clip attached to the upper edge of the multilayered board. According to the preferred embodiment of the invention, the middle layer includes a cavity for receiving a rotatable wheel. Indicia on the rim of the wheel are viewable through a transparent window in the top layer of the multilayered clipboard. The wheel extends through an aperture in the side of the board so that the wheel can be rotated and information read off of the indicia through the transparent viewing window. According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, the cavity is square and receives a rectangular slide that moves into and out of the cavity through a side aperture. Transparent windows on the top and bottom layers make it possible to view indicia on the slide from both sides of the multilayered clipboard.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: MDDM, Inc.Inventor: Janice Gross
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Patent number: 6691443Abstract: An illuminator for an alpha-numeric/graphic information board is adapted to be disposed in front of the information. An array of light sources directly illuminates an edge of the lens and a plurality of grooves arranged in a front face of the lens disperses the light received from the array onto the information. This reduces the possibility of reflection of light from the illuminator toward the observer and does not significantly increase the overall thickness of the board. A transparent cover disposed against te front face of the lens protects the lens from dirt, debris, scratches, nicks and other damage and is easily cleaned and inexpensive to replace. Masking strips disposed on the rear face of the cover coincide with the grooves to block light from being dispersed away from the information and to emphasize or frame the information being illuminated to the observer.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Lektron, Inc.Inventor: James C. Slayden
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Patent number: 6691444Abstract: One or more frame members are assembled to provide a frame having a front face, sides and a back. The frame surrounds an area of predetermined size and configuration and is designed to accept a flexible sheet material which is pulled taut over the area and front face and around the sides of the frame. The flexible material may have art, graphics or other indicia applied to the outer exposed side and is easily secured, adjusted and removed on the back of the frame with the use of an adhesive membrane and removable clips. The assembled frame is structured to mount tightly against a flat, curved or angled (e.g. inward or outward corners) wall surface with no visible fasteners.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Charles Ian Doone
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Patent number: 6691445Abstract: A mechanism for disabling a firearm is provided. The disablement mechanism includes a body positionable to block movement of the hammer spring assembly in order to prevent the hammer from being moved to its cocked position.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Springfield, Inc.Inventor: Charles David Williams
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Patent number: 6691446Abstract: A debris retaining and retrieval tool for cleaning the barrels of rifles. A serrated brass cutting blade is positioned between two spaced plastic guide discs and further between a plastic lead-in guide element and a plastic follower guide element. The elements are combined by a bolt and nut and fastened to a ram rod. The spaced guide discs and the cutting blade entrap the scraped barrel residue of powder, plastic and lead to be carried outside the cleaned barrel for removal by a toothbrush.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Barry L. Graves
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Patent number: 6691447Abstract: A non-telescoping adjustment mechanism for adjustment of a riflescope or other sighting device includes a core that is rotatable about a central axis of the adjustment mechanism and an adjustment knob, which is rigidly coupled to the core and which extends from a housing of the riflescope to a protrusion distance. Rotating the adjustment knob causes the core to rotate for adjusting an adjustable member within the riflescope. An index slide, threadably coupled to the adjustment knob, reciprocates along the central axis between the adjustment knob and the core in response to rotation of the adjustment knob. A scale, positioned on the adjustment mechanism, provides a visual indication of the degree of adjustment applied to the riflescope through multiple turns of the adjustment knob. The indication is achieved without increasing the protrusion distance of the adjustment knob.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Leupold & Stevens, Inc.Inventor: Rodney H. Otteman
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Patent number: 6691448Abstract: A shaped fish hook guard designed to enclose various sized fish hooks or gangs of fish hooks pivotally suspended from a lure. The fishook guard is made of hard plastic that comprises a slotted casing through which the shank of a fish hook can be slid and a snap on cover extending partially over an open end of a pair of opposite coincident slots. Where the lure is not used, a fishing line passes through a slot to be attached to the shank of a single pronged hook.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: George D Jones
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Patent number: 6691449Abstract: A fish hook includes a head having a first portion adapted for coupling to a fishing line. A substantially straight shank is coupled to and projecting downwardly from the head. A substantially straight leg is coupled to the shank, the leg projecting downwardly from the shank and projecting outwardly from the axis of the shank. A curved bite has a first end coupled to the shank, forming a valley therebetween. In one form, the bite has a second end that is shaped such that a first line tangent to the second end intersects a second line connecting the lowermost point of the valley and the first portion of the head. In one form, the angle between the leg and the axis of the shank is greater than 45°.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Matzu America, Inc.Inventor: Donald M. Hoben
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Patent number: 6691450Abstract: A fishing line sinker assemblage including a streamlined weighted body that is provided with a longitudinally extending, central bore; and a fishing line securement member that is telescopically received within the central bore of the weighted body for telescopic movement between a first extended position and a second retracted position. The fishing line securement member is constructed from a length of yieldably deformable stainless steel wire and includes a line eyelet that securely grips the fishing line upon movement of the securement member from the first extended position to the second retracted position. The assemblage is fishing line sinker of a configuration such that when it is in use nothing protrudes from the sinker, such as an eyelet or swivel as found in some prior art devices, that can become tangled with weeds, grass or other debris.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2001Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Larry V. Glavinich
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Patent number: 6691451Abstract: A tackle box cleaning system for easily removing salt and other debris from lures and tackle stored within the box. The tackle box cleaning system is comprised of a tackle box having a plurality of sides, a front wall, a rear wall and at least one drawer having a perforated bottom wall. A water intake mounted on the rear wall of the box is connected a distribution line connected to at least one nozzle positioned within the box, whereby a source of water, connected to the intake, exits the nozzle in a mist, thereby rinsing the lures and tackle contained within. The inside bottom of the tackle box is angled slightly downward from the rear wall to the front wall, thereby allowing the water flowing through the tackle box to exit through a plurality of drain holes disposed on the sides.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2003Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Marcus Keenan
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Patent number: 6691452Abstract: A rodent trap includes a box having one or more entrance tubes provided therein. The entrance tubes are in communication with a mouse hole in the side wall of the box. Within each tube is a tilt ramp that tilts in response to a weight of 4 grams at a distance of one and {fraction (5/16)} inches from the pivot axis to the tilt ramp.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Kness Mfg. Co., Inc.Inventors: Harry E. Knuppel, Kathy J. Wauson, Edward J. Yarkosky
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Patent number: 6691453Abstract: Termite foods mixed together in a matrix suitable to be used as baits and attractants for termites are provided. They comprise cellulose, naphthalenic compounds, water and potentially other termite-preferred nutrients. Methods of monitoring the presence of termites using such matrices and methods of controlling termites using such matrices to deliver termite toxins are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of AgricultureInventors: Maria Guadalupe Rojas, Juan A. Morales-Ramos, Frederick Green, III
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Patent number: 6691454Abstract: A slug barrier employs a salt or another non-toxic irritant to gastropods. An elongated flexible edge barrier extends along a margin of the garden, and has a lower edge protruding into the soil and an upper edge extending above the soil. A channel member formed at the upper edge holds a length of wicking material. The wicking material can be a compressed flat synthetic sponge. A paste of salt and other possible minor constituents is charged into the wicking material. The salt is an irritant to garden slugs and snails. Cayenne pepper and garlic juice can be added as know deterrents to a insects and animals such as rabbits. A liquid organic detergent in the paste prevents animals such as deer from licking or biting the sponge. The detergent deters other animals from crossing the barrier.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: John E. Conroy
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Patent number: 6691455Abstract: A biodegradable playing surface (100) including a synthetic turf base (104) positioned atop a foundation (102) is provided. The synthetic turf base includes an at least partially biodegradable backing (112) having a plurality of openings (116), and synthetic fibers (110) secured to the biodegradable backing. The synthetic turf base also includes a surface layer of growth medium (118) applied on top of the biodegradable backing to reach a predetermined depth. Natural grass (120) is planted in the surface layer of growth medium. The biodegradable backing degrades over time so as to increase the size and number of the openings through the backing. This allows the roots of the natural grass to increasingly grow amongst the synthetic fibers and through the backing, so as to firmly integrate the synthetic turf base to the foundation.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2000Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Turf Stabilization Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Jerry G. Bergevin
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Patent number: 6691456Abstract: A plant container containing sidewalls extending from a bottom to a top opening so as to define a cavity, said top opening smaller than said bottom, an opening at said bottom and removable plug means for closing said opening.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Inventor: Ronald Vahrmeyer
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Patent number: 6691457Abstract: An apparatus and method are disclosed for forming a decorative covering about a flower pot or a floral grouping from a sheet of material, the sheet of material having printed thereon a graphic image that is prominently displayed on a selected portion of the decorative covering. The graphic image may be a masterpiece of art produced by one of the Great Masters of the Renaissance, at least a portion of a musical score, or combinations thereof.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Southpac Trust International, Inc.Inventor: Donald E. Weder
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Patent number: 6691458Abstract: A method of covering a pot with a plant cover, the plant cover at least comprising a base portion, and optionally having a skirt or a detachable upper portion. The plant cover has a heat shrinkable bonding material which can be heat shrink to secure to plant cover about the pot.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2002Date of Patent: February 17, 2004Assignee: Southpac Trust International, Inc.Inventor: Donald E. Weder