Patents Issued in February 17, 2004
  • Patent number: 6691709
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an aiding apparatus for treating sexually handicapped persons, which apparatus may be of a big help to conjugal life of sexually handicapped persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Kie-Ho Cynn
  • Patent number: 6691710
    Abstract: A performance enhancing and force absorbing mouthguard adapted to fit the upper teeth of the mouth of an athlete wherein the mouthguard is quadruple or quintuple composite material of distinct materials. The first internal layer is a non-softenable flexible framework which will permit the mouthguard to hold its shape during fitting as well as to absorb and dissipate significant impact conveyed to the upper teeth. Disconnected anterior impact braces extend anteriorly to a medial region forming a gap therebetween. A hard, durable reverse bite plate wedge is thicker rearwardly and lowers the condyle from the temporomandibular joint in a fulcrum action to place the lower jaw in an optimum condition preventing impingement upon the nerves and arteries as well as spacing the upper and lower teeth apart. Elastomeric traction pads are on the bottom of the mouthguard and are grippingly engaged by the posterior teeth of the lower jaw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Bite Tech, Inc.
    Inventors: Jon D. Kittelsen, Henry D. Cross, III, Paul C. Belvedere, Mark Herman
  • Patent number: 6691711
    Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for treatment of male incontinence and a method for female cystocele repair in which a sling material is positioned between the descending rami of the pubic bone. In such an operation a “hammock-like” sling material is positioned below the urethra in males, or below the posterior bladder wall in the case of cystocele in females.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: AMS Research Corporation
    Inventors: Shlomo Raz, Mordechay Beyar, Oren Globerman
  • Patent number: 6691712
    Abstract: A dispensing device for use as a hair dye applicator is provided having a manifold having a first end configured to receive liquid dye and an inside surface and an outside surface. The manifold has a conduit communicating with the inside surface and the first end which provides fluid communication between the first end and at least one orifice extending from the inside surface to the outside surface. The manifold further includes a first lip and a second lip on the outside surface with the first lip surrounding the orifice and the second lip surrounding the first lip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: New Basics, Inc.
    Inventors: Lorrayne Yen Chu, John De Piano, May Mu, Philip H. Parda
  • Patent number: 6691713
    Abstract: An apparatus for mechanical removal of pests and their eggs from the hair and fur, and a method for use of the apparatus. The apparatus is in the general shape of a comb having closely separated parallel teeth, which can be passed through the hair to glean lice and nits from the hair. The apparatus may comprise two or more individual combs which can be locked together for use, and separated for cleaning. The apparatus may also comprise a tooth-cleaning mechanism, adapted to be used after each pass of the comb. This mechanism may be, for example, a cleaning member which slides along the teeth to remove pests and eggs. When the apparatus is being passed through the hair or fur, the cleaning mechanism may be disposed at the base of the apparatus to prevent pests from crawling into interior spaces of the apparatus and reinfesting the individual upon subsequent passes of the apparatus through the hair or fur.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: National Pediculosis Association
    Inventor: Deborah Z. Altschuler
  • Patent number: 6691714
    Abstract: This invention relates to a wearer's own hair utilizing type wig in which the wearer's own hair is pulled up through a space in the wig and blended with false hairs at the time for attaching the wig to the wearer and in which the wearer's own hair can be effectively and evenly utilized, thus enabling to provide an abundance of hair as a whole. Particularly, the wig (1, 2, 3) comprises a hair-secured frame (10, 20, 30) which includes a skeleton-like framework and false hairs (15) attached to the skeleton-like framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Aderans Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshio Yaguchi, Yoshihiko Isobedate, Katsuo Sugai, Sakiko Imai, Ryuji Yamakawa, Shinkichi Kojima
  • Patent number: 6691715
    Abstract: Novel water soluble polymers in solution or water-in-oil emulsion form are disclosed containing quaternary ammonium monomers; and optionally (meth)acrylic acid or 2-(meth)acrylamido-2-methylpropane sulfonic acid; methylene bis-acryamide and the like; and a C1-C3 alkyl (meth) acrylate acrylamide or methacrylamide and the use thereof in hair, skin and nail conditioning; papermaking; and subterranean well drilling and well cementing operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Calgon Corporation
    Inventors: Gary F. Matz, Randy J. Loeffler, Shih-Ruey T. Chen, Allan L. Melby, Nicholas F. Vozza
  • Patent number: 6691716
    Abstract: A disc-type cosmetic applicator has a plurality of individual discs connected by integrally molded springs to yield a single disc array. The space between the individual discs of the disc array is compressible during withdrawal from a container so that excess product can be removed from the applicator by a wiper. After passage through the wiper, the springs between the individual discs are biased to return to the array to a fully expanded position. The compressing of the discs during withdrawal allows a controlled amount of product to remain on the applicator for application by the consumer, and the returning of the discs to their expanded position by the spring causes the discs to assume a configuration which allows the applicator to effectively comb and separate the eyelashes. The single unit construction of the multi-disc array allows efficient and convenient assembly of a complete applicator by securing a single disc array to a conventional applicator stem with a simple pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Color Access, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles P. Neuner, Herve F. Bouix
  • Patent number: 6691717
    Abstract: A clip end hair fastening band for fastening and styling hair comprising an elastic band with claw-toothed clips integrally attached to each end and additional claw clips attached to its underside. The band can be any material including a swatch of hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: David Alan Silva
  • Patent number: 6691718
    Abstract: A system and method for cleaning carriers used for handling semiconductor wafers including a box cleaner having a rotor within an enclosure. Box holder assemblies on the rotor include upper and lower hooks for securing boxes to the rotor. A box door holder assembly is also provided on the rotor. The box door holder assembly preferably has a plurality of box door holding positions. Each box door holding position advantageously has a door guide and door hooks for holding a door. The box door holder assembly allows both the boxes and their doors to be cleaned with the centrifugal cleaner, avoiding the need for separate cleaning of the doors. In one configuration, the rotor is provided with an even number of box holder assemblies symmetrically spaced about the rotor and an even number of door holder assemblies symmetrically spaced about the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Semitool, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Bexten, Jerry Norby
  • Patent number: 6691719
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus is provided that may fix a point at which an etchant or a fluid sprayed from a nozzle impacts a substrate. By fixing a first angle measured between the inventive nozzle and a substrate support and fixing a process height of a nozzle relative to a substrate support, a second angle, measured between a fluid sprayed from the nozzle and a line tangent to a substrate support, may vary without affecting the fluid impact point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Applied Materials Inc.
    Inventors: Alexander Sou-Kang Ko, Bernardo Donoso
  • Patent number: 6691720
    Abstract: A system for processing a workpiece includes an inner chamber pivotably supported within an outer chamber. The inner chamber has an opening to allow liquid to drain out. A motor pivots the inner chamber to bring the opening at or below the level of liquid in the inner chamber. As the inner chamber turns, liquid drains out. Workpieces within the inner chamber are supported on a holder or a rotor, which may be fixed or rotating. Multi processes may be performed within the inner chamber, reducing the need to move the workpieces between various apparatus and reducing risk of contamination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Semitool, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Bergman, Dana Scranton, Eric Lund, Gil Lund
  • Patent number: 6691721
    Abstract: The present invention provides an umbrella fan which includes a pole, an upper hub, main umbrella support members, a lower hub, lower umbrella support arms and a main umbrella fabric cover attached to the main umbrella support members. At least one fan member is attached to the main umbrella fabric cover and depends downwardly therefrom. A motor mounted to the pole is operably connected to at least one of the upper hub and the lower hub and is adapted to rotate the upper hub, the main umbrella support members, the lower hub, the lower support arms and the main umbrella fabric cover and at least one fan member relative to the pole. This causes the fan member to direct a flow of air downwardly when the motor is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Phillip C. Apple
  • Patent number: 6691722
    Abstract: A walking cane holder apparatus allows a walking cane to be removably attached to a person's clothing when not being used and also prevents the cane from falling to the ground when dropped by a user. The walking cane has a walking cane holding attachment having an elongated support member having first and second straps connected together. The first strap has a clothing fastener attached thereto and the second strap has a piece of hook and loop material attached thereto. A piece of hook and loop material is attached to the walking cane for releasably attaching the walking cane to the holding attachment second strap a piece of hook and loop material and has one end of an elongated, flexible, resilient cord attached thereto. The resilient cord has a piece of hook and loop material attached to the other end thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventors: Jack M. Hutchinson, Brenda Allen
  • Patent number: 6691723
    Abstract: Apparatus is disclosed herein for adjusting the length of a frame to fit a canopy tied onto and stretched over the frame. Each end of the frame includes a mounting bracket which is slid into an open end of a side tube with a friction fit. A sleeve is secured over the side tube with a flange engaging the outer end of the bracket. An adjusting nut and bolt engages both the flange and the bracket such that rotation of the nut against the flange causes the bracket to be moved axially within and of the side tube thereby lengthening the overall length of the frame relative to the canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Byron L. Godbersen
  • Patent number: 6691724
    Abstract: A method and system for controlling a household water supply provides protection of structures and fixtures from water damage due to plumbing failure or other causes. The household water supply is shut-off in conformity with a determination that the household is unoccupied and thereby provides automatic protection from water damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Brent Ford
  • Patent number: 6691725
    Abstract: A float operated fuel vapor vent valve for use in a vehicle fuel tank. The float has a membrane valve caged for lost motion movement on the top of the float. Upon refueling, the float rises and seals the membrane on a vent port valve seat. A projection extending downwardly from the top of the cage contacts the membrane to peel away a localized area of the membrane valve from the valve seat to ensure re-opening upon the float descending as fuel is withdrawn from the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Maxim V. Zorine
  • Patent number: 6691726
    Abstract: A novel method for bending tubes suitable for use in high-purity fluid handling systems includes selecting a tube made from a material having a grain-size number of at least 5, and forming a bend in the tube with a bend radius of greater than 1.5 times the diameter of the tube. Tubes bent according to the present invention are incorporated into high-purity systems as supply lines, product lines, and vacuum forelines, without the need for post-bend heat treatment or polishing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Therma Corporation, Inc.
    Inventors: Nicolae M. Erdei, Todd A. Mays
  • Patent number: 6691727
    Abstract: A system and method is claimed for protecting sections of a buried utility pipe that will eventually be excavated and exposed for tapping purposes. The system includes a protective collar that is applied to the utility pipe before the utility pipe is buried. When the utility pipe is to be tapped, the utility pipe is excavated directly above the protective collar. The presence of the protective collar provides a physical barrier that prevents the utility pipe from being damaged from the excavating equipment. When the protective collar is removed, a clean, unobstructed area of utility pipe is exposed on which a tapping procedure can be performed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Michael D. Jensen
  • Patent number: 6691728
    Abstract: A method of routing a new pipe duct into an existing pressurized gas pipeline includes the step of introducing a translating member into the pressurized gas pipeline via an entry port in a first fitting attached to the pressurized gas pipeline. The translating member, such as a duct rod, is advanced within the pressurized gas pipeline by a driving mechanism, until it reaches second fitting. The translating member is attached to a pipe inner duct. The duct rod and pipe inner duct are then pulled back through the pressurized gas pipeline by the driving mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Sempra Fiber Links
    Inventors: Scott A. Beals, Ronald D. Hammer, Robert E. Evans, Kevin Leeds
  • Patent number: 6691729
    Abstract: A housing (16) comprises a first housing (17) and a second housing (18). The first housing (17) is fixed to a gas cylinder (1) and is provided with a cylinder main valve (3) which is manually opened and closed. The second housing (18) is provided with a main stop valve (4) of an electromagnetically opening and closing valve. The second housing (18) is removably fixed to the first housing (17) by a tightening bolt (39). In this state where the second housing (18) is fixed to the first housing (17), the cylinder main valve (3) has a first valve chamber (44) communicated with a second valve chamber (63) of the main stop valve (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Neriki, Nichiden Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaru Takeda, Mitsunori Sakai, Junichi Ono, Yorikazu Satoh, Ken Nagasawa
  • Patent number: 6691730
    Abstract: The invention is an inflatable pad with a built-in pump, including an inflation unit with a laminated fringed chamber and an interior air pump assembly with an inflation and deflation channel. The pump chamber has two pieces of unidirectional membrane tubing in a reverse loop. One tubing is a channel between the pump chamber and the inflation chamber. The other tubing is installed inside the pump chamber so that one end connects to the pump chamber and the other to a piece of round tubing on the chamber edge. The round tubing connects to the laminated edge of the inflation chamber and has an insertable hollow bolt so that an inflation access is formed. On the round tubing surface ther is a vent hole. When the bolt is removed from the tubing, a deflation channel is formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Chin-Tang Chen
  • Patent number: 6691731
    Abstract: A corporation stop cleaner device includes a T-shaped body having an inlet end, an outlet end, a flushing inlet connection and a flushing outlet connection. The T-shaped body is attached to the fluid inlet of a corporation stop. A removable brush is mounted on one end of a rigid rod and is forced through the T-shaped body and into the corporation stop. The brush abuts the inner surfaces of the corporation stop to remove debris or the like from the inner surfaces of the corporation stop. Flushing water flows through the T-shaped body to remove debris removed from the corporation stop. An optional pipe cleaning tool includes the T-shaped body attached to a service water line with an expandable brush mounted on one end of a flexible cable wherein the brush expands through the pipe cleaning tool inside of the water pipe to remove debris from the line that is stopping flow of water therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventors: Jamie L. Thompson, L. Wayne Dixon
  • Patent number: 6691732
    Abstract: The present invention provides a hydrant locking device to be used in conjunction with a fire hydrant having locking nuts which includes, a base arm having a first base arm portion and a second base arm portion. A top arm extends upwardly from the base arm and includes a top arm cap for covering at least one of the locking nuts. The first base arm portion is detachably secured to the second base arm portion, wherein the base arm and the top arm are secured to the fire hydrant when the first base arm portion is secured to the second base arm portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Mueller International
    Inventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., Mikail German, Ken Clark
  • Patent number: 6691733
    Abstract: A tapping connector for a pipeline, vessel or the like wherein the connector has a membrane disposed therein. The membrane may be curved or arcuate and may be configured to offer a partially cylindrical profile that resembles the wall of a pipe. The tapping connector may be used to provide future connection points for branch lines to the pipeline, vessel or other containment structure. The membrane so configured may be removed by conventional pipe tapping equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Bruce E. Morris
  • Patent number: 6691734
    Abstract: A method, system and tools for introducing a fiber optic conduit into a pressurized gas pipeline includes the step of introducing a translating member into the pressurized gas pipeline via an entry port in a first fitting attached to the pressurized gas pipeline. Tools are deployed within a first pressure lock housing attached to the first fitting by using a first manipulator located in the first air lock housing. The translating member, such as a duct rod, is advanced within the pressurized gas pipeline by a driving mechanism until a second drilling fitting is reached. The translating member is attached to a fiber optic conduit or cable. The duct rod and fiber optic conduit are then pulled back through the pressurized gas pipeline. Extractor tools extending through seals in the pressure lock housing engage with and withdraw the duct rod. Alternatively, first and second duct rods may be pushed towards each other from the first and second fittings. End elements on the duct rods engage each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Sempra Fiber Links
    Inventors: Scott A. Beals, Ronald D. Hammer, Robert E. Evans, Kevin Leeds
  • Patent number: 6691735
    Abstract: The current invention describes a pressure regulator for a gas burner that allows a consumer to make adjustments to the pressure regulator for differences in altitude as well as differences in the design and manufacturing tolerances of the pressure regulator from the manufacturer. Many traditional gas burners require a third party, with specialized equipment and training, to make corrective adjustments to the pressure to a gas burner after the burner is sold to the consumer. This pressure regulator incorporates a regulating curve into the pressure regulator, thus eliminating the need to remove the pressure regulator from the appliance and allowing the consumer himself to make the necessary adjustments to the burner without the assistance of a third party.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Uwe Harneit
  • Patent number: 6691736
    Abstract: A waterproof valve of an exhausting tube comprises a tube body, a check portion, a check piece and a ball. An upper end of the check portion has two assembling holes. A check piece having two tip points at two side of the distal end thereof and a distal end of the check piece has a round hole. In assembly, the check portion and ball are mounted in the tube body; the assembling holes of the check portion are coupled to the tip points of the check portion. The round hole at the distal end of the check piece is assembled with the ball for controlling the action of the check piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Ching-Hsiang Liu
  • Patent number: 6691737
    Abstract: A hand drive for shut-off members is described, for example for membrane valves, the hand drive comprises a hand wheel for actuating the valve which is provided with a closure limiter and a valve lift limiter, the hand wheel is provided with two inserts mounted thereon for axial adjustability; and wherein the inserts interact with a threaded spindle coupled with a valve element so as to adjust the valve lift limiter and the closure limiter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Gemü Gebrüder Müller Apparatebau GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Fritz Muller, Gregor Gaida
  • Patent number: 6691738
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a filler assembly for dispensing liquid to and from a container capable of storing an indicated liquid. The filler assembly has a portable part and a stationary part cooperating to provide a sealed dispensing means for communicating an indicated liquid from an indicated liquid source to a container and for safely communicating the indicated liquid from the container to another location. The portable part and the stationary part are adapted to sealably mate together and further provide means for preventing misassembly of the two parts. The portable part provides dispensing means capable of communicating the liquid from the stationary part to a remote location. The stationary part is adapted to further sealably mate and communicate with a container capable of storing an indicated liquid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Wen-Chang Kuo, Szu-Yao Wang, Wen-Hsiang Tseng
  • Patent number: 6691739
    Abstract: A valve assembly includes a housing defining a main chamber having an inlet connectable to a source of pressurized fluid, and an outlet; a first valve within the main chamber normally closing the main chamber outlet but automatically opening its outlet in response to a first predetermined pressure within the main chamber; an intermediate chamber communicating with the main chamber outlet; and a second valve having an inlet communicating with the intermediate chamber, and an outlet for discharging fluid from the chambers. The second valve is normally closed but automatically opens in response to a second predetermined pressure slightly higher than the first predetermined pressure, such that the second valve reduces or eliminates drippings in the discharge of fluid from the chambers particularly during low rates of flow of the fluid into the main chamber via the main chamber inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Peretz Rosenberg
  • Patent number: 6691740
    Abstract: A self-holding type solenoid-operated valve comprises a single coil which is wound around a bobbin in one direction, a movable iron core which is disposed coaxially with a fixed iron core, a first spring which urges the movable iron core away from the fixed iron core, and an annular permanent magnet which is installed to a portion at which an end of the fixed iron core and an end of the movable iron core are opposed to one another. The annular permanent magnet partially surrounds the outer circumferential surfaces of the fixed iron core and the movable iron core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: SMC Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masami Yoshida, Noriya Sasaki, Masato Hosoi
  • Patent number: 6691741
    Abstract: An installation assembly for installing a liner in a pipeline comprises an inner bladder having an installation end and a retrieval end. An outer bladder surrounds the inner bladder. The ends of the inner and outer bladders are coupled together adjacent the installation end. The inner bladder is coupled to an air source at a retrieval end and the outer bladder adjacent the retrieval end is free. Following installation and curing of the liner, the bladder assembly is retrieved by pulling on the retrieval end of the inner bladder, and upon retrieval, the outer bladder is inverted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: NuFlow Technologies (2000) Inc.
    Inventor: Cameron Manners
  • Patent number: 6691742
    Abstract: A pipe assembly includes pipe having a protecting saddle connected thereto. A support member and a support saddle are provided to sustain the pipe, with the protecting saddle resting on the support saddle. One of the protecting saddle and the support saddle has a slippery coating to allow the pipe to move relative to the support saddle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas L. Cooper
  • Patent number: 6691743
    Abstract: A flexible tubular pipe having, from the inside outwards, at least, a carcass of an interlocked metal strip, an internal sealing sheath, a cylindrical pressure vault of a winding of an interlocked profiled metal wire wound in a helix with a short pitch, at least one ply of tensile armor wires wound with a long pitch, a wire wound with a short pitch over the ply of armor wires, the wires having a deformable sheath that partially penetrates the gaps between the windings in the at least one ply of armor wires, and an external protective sealing sheath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Coflexip
    Inventor: Philippe Espinasse
  • Patent number: 6691744
    Abstract: An actuator (A) for a component (2), comprising at least one defined stop position, in particular to a brake component actuator of a yarn brake (B), for a selective braking of a running yarn (Y) which actuator has a drive element (D) for linear or rotational adjustment of the component (2). Said actuator is provided with at least one stop device (C). The stop device (C) consists of an additional body (Z), supported in a displaceable manner on a motion damping device (F, G, H). The actuator (A) in the yarn brake is a reversible motor, suitably a magneto-electric motor (M) for rotational movement. An additional body (Z), supported in a displaceable manner on a motion damping device, is provided in each stop device, at which the yarn brake is to stop. During a linear adjustment of the component (2), the mass (m1) of the additional body (Z) matches the mass (m) of the displaced parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Iropa AG
    Inventor: Johansson Birger
  • Patent number: 6691746
    Abstract: A filling apparatus for, a filling system for and a method of introducing into a container a suspension or solution of a substance, in particular a pharmaceutical substance, in a propellant under pressure, the filling apparatus comprising: a main body (4) including a passageway (20) for communicating, in use, with a valve stem (144) extending from a head (141) of a body (139) of a container (138); a fill actuator (7) comprising a filling valve assembly (29) in communication with the passageway (20) for selectively introducing thereinto propellant under pressure containing a substance in a suspension or solution; an exhaust actuator (10) comprising an exhaust valve assembly (48) in communication with the passageway (20) for selectively exhausting therefrom propellant under pressure containing substance; and a container-engaging body (16) in communication with the passageway (20) for receiving, in use, the head (141) of the body (139) of the container (138), the container-engaging body (16) including a chamber
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Inventors: John Brennan, Roger Matthews, Stephen Metcalf
  • Patent number: 6691747
    Abstract: An apparatus for exposing a container traveling along a conveyor to a controlled environment is provided. The apparatus includes an elongated rail and a first elongated gas deflecting member. The elongated rail includes a longitudinally oriented manifold. The longitudinally oriented manifold is adapted to align with a path of the container. The elongated rail also includes at least one inlet opening to receive a controlled environment gas. The first elongated gas deflecting member is positioned adjacent to the manifold. The first elongated gas deflecting member is contoured to deflect a flow of the controlled environment gas exiting the manifold in a direction transverse to the path of the container and into the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: MAP Systems International division of Jescorp, Inc.
    Inventors: Frank F. Marcus, James J. Sanfilippo, John E. Sanfilippo
  • Patent number: 6691748
    Abstract: An object is to provide a container transfer and processing system which can simplify total construction and control, does not increase time and cost in manufacturing and use, which is easy to use, and which runs efficiently, and for which processing of large quantities of containers can be performed rapidly and easily.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Precision System Science Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hideji Tajima
  • Patent number: 6691749
    Abstract: This invention relates to a service coupling for coupling a vehicle to a service port such that one or more services are transferable therebetween. The coupling comprises a plug comprising at least one service engagement portion; and a receptacle comprising an opening to receive the plug, and at least one service engagement portion positioned to engage the plug service engagement portion when the plug is inserted into the receptacle. The engagement is such that a service is transferable between the plug and receptacle. At least one of the plug and receptacle service engagement portions is arcuate thereby enabling engagement to be maintained between the plug and receptacle engagement portions when the plug is rotated about the axis and within the arc-length of the arcuate engagement portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: General Hydrogen Corporation
    Inventors: Alan John Mulvenna, John David Trevor Graham
  • Patent number: 6691750
    Abstract: A filler neck closure assembly includes a nozzle receiver associated with a vehicle fuel tank and a fuel-discharge control collar adapted to receive therein a fuel-dispensing pump nozzle inserted into the nozzle receiver during fuel tank refueling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventor: Dean C. Foltz
  • Patent number: 6691751
    Abstract: The subject of the invention is a grapple harvester which is equipped with a felling and cutting device (14), a feeder (12) and delimbing devices (9, 10, 11, 13). The grapple harvester according to the invention is equipped with a bulk handling device (4) which is arranged to grip together several trees, which are usually gathered one by one and, preferably, whilst in the vertical position, for cutting by the grapple harvester.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Outokummun Metalli Oy
    Inventors: Veikko Kettunen, Kari Kinnunen, Jussi Makkonen
  • Patent number: 6691752
    Abstract: A tree felling saw head has two pairs of links and two hydraulic actuators to provide high rotation of the head relative to a mounting adapter in a lateral plane which is perpendicular to a cutting plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Timberjack Inc.
    Inventor: Benjamin DiSabatino
  • Patent number: 6691753
    Abstract: A pneumatic tire for motor vehicles has a running surface profile designed in the direction of rotation, with two shoulder regions (S1, S2) each being a constituent of a row of shoulder blocks, and with a middle region (C) separated from them by circumferential grooves (2) running in the circumferential direction; this middle region encompasses the width of the circumferential grooves (2) and covers a minimum width of 60% of the width of the running surface (B), is free from circumferential grooves running in the circumferential direction and is equipped with a number of V-shaped running rills (1), which open into the circumferential grooves (2) and whose V-peaks rest at least essentially on the equator line (M—M).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Continental AG
    Inventors: Katja Hanebuth, Markus Metz, Frank Jenne, Tanja Wackerhage, Thomas Sych
  • Patent number: 6691754
    Abstract: The present invention couples a tire pump with the wheel rim of a vehicle. The pump is activated electromagnetically to inflate the tire as desired, e.g. when tire pressure is below a required value. The pump is arranged to draw air from the atmosphere and pump into an interior portion of the tire. A magnetized plunger within the pump is biased to an initial position by a biasing element. Energizing an electromagnet generates a magnetic field. The pump is arranged to rotate in and out of the magnetic field to cause the plunger to reciprocate and inflate the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventor: Thomas S. Moore
  • Patent number: 6691755
    Abstract: A high transverse-curvature tire for two-wheeled vehicles includes a carcass structure, a belt structure, and tread. The carcass structure includes at least two superimposed plies provided with reinforcing cords. The belt structure includes radially-outer and radially-inner layers. Each ply's reinforcing cords are essentially parallel to other reinforcing cords of that ply and are oriented along directions inclined with respect to an equatorial plane of the tire. The reinforcing cords of at least two adjacent plies are oriented in opposite directions with respect to the equatorial plane. The carcass structure includes at least one first sheet, located between the at least two plies, made of an elastomeric material incorporating fibrous reinforcing fillers. The plurality of circumferential coils are distributed with a constant density throughout an axial development of the belt structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Pirelli Pneumatici S.p.A.
    Inventors: Giancarlo Armellin, Peter Kronthaler, Thomas Zoller
  • Patent number: 6691756
    Abstract: A pneumatic tire to be mounted on a 15-degree-taper rim comprises a pair of bead portions each with a bead core, wherein in a meridian section of the tire under a state that the tire is not mounted on the rim but the bead portions are held such that the bead width is equal to the rim width of the 15-degree-taper rim, the bead base surface of each bead portion, which is defined as extending between a bead heel and a bead toe, is substantially straight and inclined at an angle of from 22 to 26 degrees with respect to the tire axial direction, and a ratio La/Lb of the axial width La of the bead base surface to the maximum width Lb of the bead core is in a range of from 1.3 to 1.6.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuharu Koya, Yoshiyuki Takada
  • Patent number: 6691757
    Abstract: A radial tire for vehicles, comprising two side-cut shields, which are disposed on both sidewalls of the radial tire, the side-cut shields comprising at least two plies, which comprise a first filament array, which consists of mutually substantially parallel filaments, and a second filament array, which consists of mutually substantially parallel filaments, the filaments in the first filament array being at an angle &agr; relative to the filaments of the second filament array, the angle &agr; being 20-90°, and the side-cut shields being disposed to extend from the bead areas of the radial tire to the shoulder areas of the radial tire such that the edges of the side-cut shields facing the shoulder area are disposed between the belt layers and the plies. A method for manufacturing such a radial tire is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Nokian Renkaat Oyj
    Inventor: Veikko Oksanen
  • Patent number: 6691758
    Abstract: A strip of tire ply stock is reinforced with steel cords wherein the steel cords are constructed of high strength wire filament having at least a tensile strength of −2000×D+4400 MPa where D is the filament diameter in mm. Tires are constructed with the ply stock in the belt and/or carcass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventors: Dong Kwang Kim, Amit Prakash
  • Patent number: 6691759
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for making and/or decorating bowling balls and the like includes flexible transfer sheets with heat-activated ink applied to at least portions thereof. A form or mold with opposite halves, which shift between open and closed positions, includes a cavity sized to closely receive therein the article to be decorated. At least one transfer sheet is positioned in the mold with the article, such that when the mold is closed, the same are captured in the mold cavity in an overlying relationship. Heat is applied to the mold to a predetermined temperature causing the article to expand through thermal expansion, which expansion is resisted by the mold to uniformly press the transfer sheet against the underlying outer surface of the article, and also causing the heat-activated ink to transfer from the transfer sheet to the outer surface of the article to form the design thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Brunswick Bowling & Billards Corporation
    Inventors: Alfred J. Dabrowski, Jr., Daniel L. LaPres, Phillip G. Syer