Patents Issued in March 9, 2004
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Patent number: 6701933Abstract: A device for creating a spread-out stream of tobacco fibers includes a concave-curved guide track along which the fiber stream of tobacco fibers are conveyed. The guide track has a generatrix based on a uniform generating curve. At least one air jet has an air flow opening interrupting the guide track so that air exiting the air flow jet acts in a conveyance direction of the fiber stream for spreading out the tobacco fibers.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Hauni Maschinenbau AGInventor: Uwe Heitmann
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Patent number: 6701934Abstract: Double-filter cigarettes are produced by inserting different filter components between two rods of tobacco. This is attained by inserting filter components of different final lengths, obtained from separate supplies and processed along separate feed paths, successively between the tobacco rods.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Hauni Maschinenbau AGInventors: Siegfried Schlisio, Erwin Oesterling
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Patent number: 6701935Abstract: A method of incorporating fibriform smoke-modifying material in smoking material rod, wherein fibriform smoke-modifying material is fed longitudinally thereof to a rod making machine (1). The longitudinal feed path in the machine is in a travel direction of the smoking material deposition run of the suction band (3) of the machine. The fibriform material (13) is either constrained by guide means (15) in the machine to follow a feed path spaced from the run (31) of the suction band against the suction force towards the run or the feed path of the fibriform smoke-modifying material is caused to ascend toward the deposition run under the influence of the suction force towards the run, until at a predetermined distance along the deposition run the fibriform material becomes supported and is subsequently maintained at a predetermined distance from the run by particulate smoking material (20) deposited on the run. Thereafter further smoking material (20′) is deposited on the deposition run.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: British American Tobacco (Investments) LTDInventor: Richard Oliver
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Patent number: 6701936Abstract: Smoke constituent reduction is achieved by resolving from puff-to-puff analysis at which location along a tobacco rod production of a particular smoke constituent is maximized, and locally applying an attenuator at said resolved location to reduce production of the constituent. A remainder of the rod is left untreated so as to minimize impact on taste and burn characteristics of the cigarette. Reduction of the first puff formaldehyde formation is achieved by treating the cigarette tip with salts, using Burley tobacco in the tip, increasing the rod density, ventilation at the tip, and thermal treatment of the tip. Other classes of smoke constituents such as TSNAs (tobacco specific nitrosamines), PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), etc., in particular the PAHs of naphthalene, phenanthrene, pyrene, flouranthene and benzo(a)pyrene may be reduced with placement of a carbon-based and/or metallic disc at the tip and with practices of the invention herein.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Philip Morris IncorporatedInventors: Kenneth Shafer, San Li, Milton Parrish, Susan Plunkett
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Patent number: 6701937Abstract: Steam styling tongs including an evaporating device which is supplied with heat by a heating device and comprises an evaporator surface in thermal contact with the heating device. Liquid evaporates on the evaporator surface into steam, which then passes into a steam-distributor chamber and, there, flows outward via through-passages. The heating device is formed in a combustion chamber of the drum, in which, during the heating operation, flame-free combustion of a gas takes place by means of a catalyst, of which the combustion gases pass out via outlets formed in the drum or in the combustion chamber. The combustion chamber and the steam-distributor chamber are formed by a common chamber. Means which prevent water from penetrating into the common chamber are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Braun GmbHInventors: Peter Janouch, Peter Lange, Dieter Liebenthal, Silvia Rix, Heinz Kern, Peter Ruppert, Friedrich Henninger, Jürgen Seng
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Patent number: 6701938Abstract: A lip contour kit comprising at least one stencil for assisting in the application of lip liner and lipstick to an individual's lips. Each stencil is used to assist in the application of lip liner to the upper lip and/or to the lower lip. Unlike the traditional make-up stencils designed for application of eyebrow pencil and lipstick, each member of the complimentary stencils are flexible, independent of the other and can be used alone or in conjunction with any other stencil. The stencils can also be provided with color codes, letters, numbers or marks, or other indicia to assist the make-up artist/individual in distinguishing one contour from another. The stencils of this invention can be self-adjusted relative to the upper and lower lip, respectively, to permit emphasis of one facial feature over another.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Janet Faragi
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Patent number: 6701939Abstract: A dental device (10) broadly comprises a center section (12) flanked by a first picking section (14) and a second picking section (16). The first picking section (14) and the second picking section (16) are relatively flat and may include a roughened surface (50). The device (10) is preferably constructed in one-piece and molded from semi-rigid thermoplastic which resists breaking. The first picking section (14) is thicker and stronger than the second picking section (16) in order to dislodge most any debris caught between teeth. The second picking section (16) is narrow enough to reach between closely spaced teeth. In use, a person holds the device (10) by the center section (12) and inserts either picking section (14,16) between their teeth. The person works the device (10) back and forth using the roughened surface (50) or angles of either section (14,16) to disturb bacteria and other foreign substances.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Roger J. Freeman
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Patent number: 6701940Abstract: Disclosed herein are hard surface antimicrobial cleaners and methods for using them. The cleaners include a low concentration of high molecular weight ethylene oxide/propylene oxide block copolymer and a carrier. This provides residual benefits on the hard surface such as soil resistance and resistance to bacteria, molds, and biofilms. The cleaners contain other surfactants, and preferably also water and an organic acid.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.Inventors: John Tsibouklis, Maureen J. Stone, Richard W. Avery
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Patent number: 6701941Abstract: An apparatus for supplying a mixture of a treatment liquid and ozone for treatment of a surface of a workpiece, and a corresponding method are set forth. The preferred embodiment of the apparatus comprises a liquid supply line that is used to provide fluid communication between a reservoir containing the treatment liquid and a treatment chamber housing the workpiece. A heater is disposed to heat the workpiece, either directly or indirectly. Preferably, the workpiece is heated by heating the treatment liquid that is supplied to the workpiece. One or more nozzles accept the treatment liquid from the liquid supply line and spray it onto the surface of the workpiece while an ozone generator provides ozone into an environment containing the workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Semitool, Inc.Inventors: Eric J. Bergman, Mignon P. Hess
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Patent number: 6701942Abstract: A cleaning apparatus for removing contaminants from the surface of a substrate includes two parts: one which produces an aerosol including frozen particles and directs the aerosol onto the surface of the substrate to remove contaminants from the surface by physical force, and another part in which a fluid including a gaseous reactant is directed onto the surface of the substrate while the surface is irradiated to cause a chemical reaction between the reactant and organic contaminants on the surface, to chemically removing the organic contaminants. In the method of cleaning the substrate, the physical and chemical cleaning processes are carried out in a separate manner from one another so that the frozen particles of the aerosol are not exposed to the effects of the light used in irradiating the surface of the substrate. Therefore, the effectiveness of the aerosol in cleaning the substrate is maximized.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Moon-hee Lee, Kun-tack Lee, Woo-gwan Shim, Jong-ho Chung
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Patent number: 6701943Abstract: A system for cleaning grates includes a first power wash portion for applying a pressurized wash fluid to a first side of a grate, and a second power wash portion for applying a further pressurized wash fluid to a second side of the grate. A receiving portion, which is detachable from the first power wash portion, receives the grate, and a transport arrangement transports the grate along a grate path through the first and second power wash portions. A grate delivery portion, which is detachable from the second power wash portion to enhance portability and facilitate maneuverability, delivers the grate after it has been transported through the second power wash portion. A grate drive arrangement engages mechanically with the grate and urges same along the grate path from the receiving portion to the first power wash portion.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Midwest Waterblasting CorporationInventors: Randall B. Martolock, Alan L. Schafer
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Patent number: 6701944Abstract: A removable cartridge for a detergent dispensing system for a dishwasher comprising: a storage unit containing a plurality of cylindrical or spherical detergent tablets arranged in two or more rows with curved surfaces of adjacent tablets touching such that when the cartridge is upright the tablets will move under gravity towards a transfer station, a transfer station comprising ejection means to eject a tablet from the transfer station through a transfer port out of the cartridge, a transfer seal associated with the transfer port to prevent ingress of moisture into the cartridge.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Unilever Home & Personal Care USA, division of Conopco, Inc.Inventors: Richard Paul McNabb, Willem Oldenburg, Kevin Roberts
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Patent number: 6701945Abstract: A sheet metal washer system for cleaning metal blanks includes a washer cassette with an open bottom that is selectively mounted on a tank assembly, a drive motor assembly and a filter assembly. The washer cassette includes an inlet opening and an exit opening with upper and lower entry rollers having a first predetermined durometer positioned adjacent to the inlet opening and upper and lower exit rollers having a second predetermined durometer positioned adjacent the exit opening. Upper and lower manifolds for delivering cleaning fluid from the filter assembly to the interior of the washer cassette are positioned between the entry and exit rollers. The sheet metal blank is cleaned by the entry rollers and dried by the exit rollers, as it passes through the sheet metal washer. The washer cassette preferably includes a safety mechanism for locking the upper entry and exit rollers into a storage position when the washer system is not in use.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Utica Enterprises, Inc.Inventors: William Robert Budry, Jr., Mohamad A. Sebai, Douglas J. Goetz, David Berghorn, Michael J. Bleau
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Patent number: 6701946Abstract: A collapsible frame structure is provided for umbrella with self-opening mechanism. The collapsible frame structure is more durable than the prior art by using enforced light-weighted materials such as FRP to form the umbrella frame and steel bars to form the linkage beams. Each of an inner end of each second pivotal-coupling device is in contact with an outer end of the inner linking member of the support rib. Therefore, the collapsible frame structure is easy in assembly process and the yield ratio is also increased.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Ching-Chuan You
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Patent number: 6701947Abstract: A wet umbrella carrying bag that allows a wet umbrella to be stored so that water will be collected for later disposal and not dampen floor areas including a collapsible bag portion dimensioned for receiving an umbrella therein. The collapsible bag portion has an open upper end and an open lower end. A collection tray is secured to the open lower end of the collapsible bag portion. The collection tray has an open upper end and an open lower end. The open upper end is secured to the open lower end of the collapsible bag portion. The open narrow lower end has an adjustable drain disposed therein for selectively draining water from within the collection tray.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Delila Ramos
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Patent number: 6701948Abstract: An outdoor modular shelter shell with simplified connection system comprises a flexible covering having a central portion which overlays a supporting frame. Four displaceable/connectable side panels extend from the central portion to form an enclosure. A tail fastener/wall fastener connection system allows the user to completely displace walls and connect a plurality of shells to form a one room weather proof outdoor shelter with no restrictions between connected shells. Various individual wall panels may be added to transform the shelter from a fishing shelter to a hunting blind. The simplified connection system is very easy to use even with a gloved hand under low light conditions and provides a strong, weather tight, aesthetically pleasing, economical joint between the walls of an individual shelter or a plurality of connected shelters.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventors: Brian David Jopp, Bobby D. Jopp
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Patent number: 6701949Abstract: The lightweight erectable canopy shelters include a plurality of legs connected together by an extendible perimeter assembly of link members. In one embodiment, the roof structure is formed by a pole members pivotally mounted to the upper ends of the legs so as to extend across the shelter, and movable between a lowered position and a raised, upwardly arching position. The pole members are pivotally coupled to a central hub, and each of the pole members comprises pole sections hinged to permit downward folding and upward unfolding until they are fully extended. Corner support strut members are pivotally mounted to the legs, to be rotatable upwardly to engage and support the pole members.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2003Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Mark C. Carter
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Patent number: 6701950Abstract: A vent apparatus is adapted for use with a fuel tank to control venting of fuel vapor from the fuel tank. The vent apparatus comprises a fuel vapor vent outlet to discharge fuel vapor from the fuel tank. The vent apparatus comprises a normally open first valve module to serve as a fuel fill limit valve and close when the liquid level in the tank reaches a predetermined fill limit and a normally open second valve module to serve as a fuel fill limit valve and close when the liquid level in the tank reaches the predetermined fill limit. The first valve module and the second valve module cooperate to block communication between the fuel tank and the fuel vapor vent outlet when the vent apparatus is positioned in a non-tilted orientation relative to a horizontal and the level of liquid fuel in the fuel tank reaches the predetermined fill limit to close both valve modules.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Stant Manufacturing Inc.Inventors: Michael S. Brock, J. Bradley Groom
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Patent number: 6701951Abstract: A device and method to implement the device, to automatically adjust a single valve or a plurality of valves including turning the valve(s) on and off. The device includes a motor drive assembly, a mounting method, and a control method. Each component is discrete. The three components can be combined easily. The motor drive and control components can be mounted and connected to a valve that is currently connected to pipes. Thus one application of this invention is to provide a method to convert a manual valve to an automatic valve. The control method can operate as a means to turn the valve on and off using a manually operated switch or can be automatically controlled in response to an external stimulus. The invention has many applications including protecting real property from loss due to water damage, and against vandalism in cases where valves can be controlled by unauthorized people.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Don Lovis Drinkwater
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Patent number: 6701952Abstract: A valve (30) fitted within a fluid tank, the valve comprising a housing fitted with one or more fluid inlet ports, and an outlet port. The housing accommodates a float-type valve member (32) axially displaceable within the housing responsive to fluid level within the tank, between an open position in which the outlet port (58) is open, and a closed position in which the outlet port is sealingly closed. The housing is integrally formed with a nozzle member (60) being in flow communication with the outlet port and having a main portion with an outlet thereof extending within the tank.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Raval A.C.S. Ltd.Inventors: Moshe Ehrman, Ehud Orenstein, Zohar Moalem, Yoav Livne, Valdimir Olshanetaky
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Patent number: 6701953Abstract: A chemical mixing and metering apparatus is provided which can be easily incorporated into existing irrigation lines. The apparatus includes a venturi which is positioned along an irrigation supply line. The venturi is connected to a chemical supply container by a chemical conduit and by a bypass conduit. A valve is positioned in the bypass conduit to regulate the flow of irrigation fluid from the irrigation supply line into the chemical supply container. A check valve or vent is provided in the container to prevent formation of a vacuum. The chemical mixing and metering apparatus is operable in two modes of operation. Firstly, the apparatus may be operated as a vacuum system by closing the valve in the bypass conduit. Secondly, the system may be operated in a force feed/vacuum mode by opening the valve in the bypass conduit. Moreover, the apparatus may be used to inject solid and/or liquid chemicals into an irrigation system.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Stay Green, Inc.Inventor: Vito Agosta
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Patent number: 6701955Abstract: A valve apparatus that has a longitudinal axis therethrough comprises a valve seat member, a valve closure member, a fluid flow path, and a screening member. The valve seat member comprises a hollow bore and a first frustoconical contact surface. The valve closure member comprises a body and a second frustoconical contact surface that is adapted to seal against the first frustoconical contact surface. The valve closure member is movable along the longitudinal axis of the valve apparatus. The fluid flow path extends through the bore of the valve seat member and between the valve seat member and the valve closure member. This fluid flow path is closed when the second frustoconical contact surface is sealed against the first frustoconical contact surface. The screening member is attached to at least one of the valve closure member or the valve seat member, and screens particles from fluid passing through the fluid flow path when the valve closure member approaches the valve seat member.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: William R. McIntire, Hau N. Pham, Joseph M. Hubenschmidt, Mark E. Upton
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Patent number: 6701956Abstract: A water control device (10, 70) including a housing (12), including as one unit, an inlet port (14) and an exit port (16) for flow therethrough of water, and a water meter mounting flange (18) and a water flow control valve seat member (20) in fluid communication with each other and with at least one of the inlet and outlet ports, and a water meter (30) sealingly attached to the water meter mounting flange (18), and a water flow control valve (44) sealingly attached to the water flow control valve seat member (20).Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: BermadInventor: Benjamin Berger
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Patent number: 6701957Abstract: A fluid pressure reduction device comprises a plurality of stacked disks having a perimeter and a hollow center aligned along a longitudinal axis. Each disk has at least one flow path extending between the hollow center and the perimeter, the flow path including an inlet section, an outlet section, and an intermediate section extending between the inlet and outlet sections. Each flow path intermediate section includes a pressure reducing structure and a recovery zone positioned immediately downstream of the pressure reducing structure.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Fisher Controls International LLCInventors: Michael Wildie McCarty, Ted Alan Long, Michael M. Anderson
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Patent number: 6701958Abstract: A fluid control valve includes a valve body having a fluid passageway, a cage mounted in the fluid passageway and a valve plug assembly including a valve plug. The cage has a cage bore and defines one or more windows, a valve seat located below the windows and a flow control portion of the cage bore located between the valve seat and the windows. The flow control portion has an interior contour that varies in dimension as a function of distance from the valve seat. The flow control portion provides precise control in low flow conditions. The cage may further define a sealing lip located above the windows. The valve plug assembly may include a deformable sealing ring for engaging the sealing lip when the valve plug is in a closed position. The deformable sealing ring permits valve plug travel that is substantially free of sliding seal friction.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2003Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Fisher Controls International, Inc.Inventor: Hans D. Baumann
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Patent number: 6701959Abstract: A valve has a body has a bore into which open an inlet, an outlet, and a workport. A first valve seat is between the inlet and the workport, and a second valve seat is between the outlet and work ports. A poppet slides within the bore and a spring biases the poppet toward the first valve seat. Pressure at the inlet acts on surfaces of the poppet producing opposing forces that respectively tend to move the poppet toward the first and second valve seats. Because of differing surface areas, the nominal inlet port pressure exerts a net force on the poppet which substantially counteracts the spring force. Thus a solenoid actuator needs only to produce a relatively small force to move the poppet away from the first valve seat into engagement with the second valve seat.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Husco International, Inc.Inventors: Edward A. Flynn, Curt L. VanWeelden
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Patent number: 6701960Abstract: The lifetime of a double-cone device (21) for creating a pressure difference in a streaming fluid can be greatly increased by moving the inlet gap (5) into the exit cone (4). This results in a short so-called diffuser (22) being obtained between the gap (5) and the orifice (19), where entry cone (3) and exit cone (4) are connected. The increased lifetime permits the double-cone device to cope with much higher flow rates. Thus higher system pressures are created which enhance the use of the double-cone for such applications as the desalination of sea water by reverse osmosis. The important application of the seperation of oil from water using a separating device such as a cyclone (57) working under elevated pressure is now feasible. The increased power of the double-cone permits one to profit more fully from the new concept of reduction of the concentration of the feed supplied to the double-cone device (21).Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: DCT Double-Cone Technology AGInventors: John Herman Stark, Hansjörg Wagenbach, Paul Werner Straub
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Patent number: 6701961Abstract: A reed valve includes a vibration suppressing member for suppressing transmission of vibration, caused due to opening and closing operations of a reed piece, to a fixed mounting portion of an engine part to which the reed valve is mounted. The vibration suppressing member includes an elastic annular projection formed on at least one of an outer peripheral surface of a gasket fitted around an outer peripheral edge of a valve plate and a pair of upper and lower surfaces of the gasket. The elastic annular projection is elastically engaged with the fixed mounting portion when the mount portion of the valve plate is mounted to the fixed mounting portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignees: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Arai Seisakusho Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Okuyama, Hiroatsu Inui, Kiyoshi Kidachi, Toshinori Hanai, Eizaburo Chiba, Mikio Satoh
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Patent number: 6701962Abstract: A stackable valve manifold arrangement including a first valve manifold adapted to operatively receive a plurality of valves. The first valve manifold having an upper surface. A second valve manifold is provided which is adapted to operatively receive a plurality of valves. The second valve manifold has a lower surface that is in opposed relationship to the upper surface of the first valve manifold, and the second valve manifold is in fluid communication with the first manifold. The first and second manifolds may each be joined to a circuit board forming a module. The modules are vertically stackable and operatively connected to each other to form a system.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Festo CorporationInventors: Frank Latino, Grzegorz Bogdanowicz, Karl-Heinz Forster
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Patent number: 6701963Abstract: A flow conditioner includes a body composed of an array of vanes generally parallel to the direction of fluid flow. The vanes create a plurality of chambers to effectively reduce large scale vortices in the flow. The vanes have surfaces with perforations to allow pressure regulation between chambers to effectively reduce asymmetric flow and reduce drag. Additional preferred features include an acoustic choke created by a reduction in cross-sectional flow area at the entrance and the exit of the flow conditioner with circular plates. The plates have rough edges to increase production of micro-vortices.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2003Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Horiba Instruments, Inc.Inventor: James A. Hill
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Patent number: 6701964Abstract: A vortex generating fuel saving device is installed on the air intake hose to a fuel injector. An airfoil body creates a spiral vortex of air spiraling off of its outer edge, thereby increasing the air in the fuel-air mixture to the fuel injectors. The airfoil body is mounted on the forward rim of the air intake hose by a clip, and is positioned inside of the hose with the edge of the airfoil in the center of the hose. The airfoil creates a spiral vortex, which is in concentric relation to the interior of the hose, thereby allowing maximum mixture of air in the fuel-air mixture. The airfoil is capable of being adjusted in width so that the outer edge of the airfoil blade is positioned in the center of any of a variety of sizes of fuel injector air intake hoses.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2003Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Michael R. Maurice
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Patent number: 6701965Abstract: A method and device is provided for repairing a plumbing waste pipe without having to remove a failed portion of the waste pipe. A flexible sleeve with a flange is fit inside the failed waste pipe such that the outer circumference of the sleeve is in radial contact with the inner circumference of the failed pipe and the body of the sleeve extends through the failed waste pipe beyond the point of failure. The flange can be fastened between the plumbing fixture and the failed waste pipe to securely maintain the flexible sleeve within the failed pipe. Water and waste material will enter the sleeve through the flange and pass through the interior of the sleeve beyond the point of failure in the waste pipe. The water and waste can then be discharged into the waste pipe to be carried along its normal route.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Joseph Grace
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Patent number: 6701966Abstract: An improved apparatus for repairing a pipeline by the insertion of a resin-impregnated tubular liner is disclosed wherein the improvement resides in an end cap that is adhesively attached to one end of the liner, the end cap having a pull tab formed thereon and a rope attached thereto. Once the liner has been inverted into the pipeline being repaired and the resin-impregnated tubular liner has been disposed into intimate contact with the interior surface of the pipeline and allowed to cure, the end cap is easily stripped from the liner by pulling on the rope.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2003Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Infrastructure Repair Systems, Inc.Inventor: William G. Higman
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Patent number: 6701967Abstract: A device for arresting the propagation of a buckle appearing on an outer tube of a double-walled rigid pipe intended to transport hydrocarbons and consisting of two coaxial tubes. The double-walled pipe is of the reelable type and intended for very great depths and consists of a thick and rigid annular transverse partition fastened to the inner tube and to the outer tube. The partition is joined to the outer tube and to the inner tube by way of an outer and inner sleeve having the same diameter as the outer and inner tubes and fastened to the latter.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: CoflexipInventors: Bill George Louis, Mike Bell
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Patent number: 6701968Abstract: A flexible hose comprising (A) a soft hose main body formed of polyvinyl chloride resin; and (B) a helical rigid reinforcing means embedded in the soft hose main body formed of polyvinyl chloride resin wherein the specific gravity of the helical rigid reinforcing means is less than the specific gravity of the hose main body and the overall specific gravity of the flexible hose is less than 1.0 g/cm3.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber CompanyInventor: Mauricio Bolonhezi
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Patent number: 6701969Abstract: A flexible pipe and a method of manufacturing same according to which an inner sheath is surrounded by at least one tensile layer, and an outer sheath of polymeric material consisting of an olefin polymer blended with at least one thermoset elastomer is disposed around the tensile layer.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Wellstream International LimitedInventor: Brian Scott Wilson
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Patent number: 6701970Abstract: A carpet weaving loom including at least one tuft forming unit (1) for forming sequentially yarn tufts (7) of a number of different colors, means to receive and hold at yarn tuft holding sites (8) yam tufts supplied sequentially by the tuft forming unit (1), and transfer means (10) to transfer all of the tufts (7) held by the yarn tuft holding sites (8) simultaneously to their corresponding weaving points. The or each tuft forming unit supplies yarn tufts (7) to at least twenty yarn tuft holding sites (8) between successive operations of the transfer means (10). When only a single tuft forming unit (1) is provided it preferably supplies tufts to at least one hundred and sixty tuft holding sites (8). When a plurality of tuft forming units (1) are provided each preferably supplies tufts to between twenty and one hundred and twenty tuft holding sites (8). This configuration leads to a considerable reduction in the size of creel with consequent reduction in waste and time taken to thread-up such a loom.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Brintons LimitedInventor: Michael Winspear Burton
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Patent number: 6701971Abstract: Coated inflatable fabrics, more particularly airbags to which very low add-on amounts of coating have been applied, are provided which exhibit extremely low air permeabilities. The inventive fabrics are primarily for use in automotive restraint cushions which require low permeability characteristics (such as side curtain airbags). Traditionally, heavy, and thus expensive, coatings of compounds such as neoprene, silicones and the like, have been utilized to provide such required low permeability. The inventive fabric utilizes an inexpensive, very thin coating to provide such necessary low permeability levels. Thus, the inventive coated airbag possesses a coating of at most 3.0 ounces per square yard, most preferably about 0.8 ounces per square yard, and exhibits a leak-down time (a measurement of the time required for the entire amount of gas introduced within the airbag at peak pressure during inflation to escape the airbag at 10 psi) of at least 7 seconds.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2000Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Mililken & CompanyInventors: John A. Sollars, Jr., Shulong Li
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Patent number: 6701972Abstract: A system is provided that includes a load lock apparatus having an interior configured to receive an object. At least one inlet valve may be flow coupled to the interior of the load lock apparatus, and at least one outlet valve may also be flow coupled to the interior of the load lock apparatus. A controller may be configured to selectively control opening and closing of the at least one inlet valve. The load lock apparatus may include an object receiving mechanism that is movable within the interior of the load lock apparatus to throttle the evacuation of the interior. Several methods of using the system and load lock apparatuses are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: The BOC Group, Inc.Inventors: Colin John Dickinson, Daimhin Paul Murphy
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Patent number: 6701973Abstract: A guide device for loading a solid matter into a bag including: an upper hopper which performs a reciprocating swinging motion along the conveying direction of the bag and about a supporting shaft located in the center of the upper portion of the upper hoppers, and a lower hopper which is positioned beneath the upper hopper and performs a reciprocating horizontal motion along the conveying direction of the bags and also moved toward and away from the upper hopper. The upper hopper's swing motion and the lower hopper's horizontal motion along the conveying direction of the bag are made in synchronization with the movement of the bag, and the lower hopper is lowered so that its lower opening is inserted into the mouth of the bag.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Toyo Jidoki Co., Ltd.Inventors: Iwao Ikemoto, Shoichi Koga
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Patent number: 6701974Abstract: A dispensing machine for dispensing items from a storage container and into an object container is disclosed. The dispensing machine dispenses items such as frozen chicken nuggets or other food items which are normally cooked and sold by volume. Accordingly, the machine may be set to dispense a pre-selected portion of chicken nuggets from the input hopper. The object container is typically a deep-frying basket. Upon activating the machine, the user will not have to count the items nor will the user have to touch the items at any time, thereby reducing or eliminating opportunities for contamination of the items and consequent spread of disease or unpalatable impurities such as dirt. The machine may be fully automatic or may be hand operated. Where the items are edible items that must be refrigerated, the machine components may be contained in refrigeration unit. Access to the interior of the machine is provided through one or more doors which are designed to remain shut during operation of the machine.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Base Design, Inc.Inventor: Brian R. Rudesill
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Patent number: 6701975Abstract: A lid assembly for a paint reservoir includes a lid, a first rigid suction tube, and a second rigid suction tube. The lid includes a cover member and a flange that extends downwardly from the periphery of the cover member. A suction opening, vent hole opening, and bypass opening extend axially through the cover member. A first tubular member is positioned in the suction opening and a second tubular member is positioned in the bypass opening. The first suction tube extends through the first tubular member. The second suction tube is coupled to and extends downwardly from the first suction tube. The second suction tube is configured to extend near the bottom surface of the paint reservoir.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Campbell Hausfeld/Scott Fetzer CompanyInventor: Stanley D. Neal
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Patent number: 6701976Abstract: A jig for injecting a fixed amount of insulin includes: a main fixture (1) having upper and lower sandwiching portions for sandwiching and supporting an insulin injector from both sides, at upper and lower portions on the rear surface of the insulin injector; a screw fixing piece (4) formed by extending one side of upper sandwiching portions 2 of the main fixture 1 upward; and, outside of the piece 4 for fixing an appointed quantity of screws, an injection button upper-limit position setting piece (6) whose upper portion is bent inward and which is provided with a slit (7) opened at its lower part, and the injection-button upper-limit position setting piece (6) is made freely movable up and down by screw fixation to the screw fixing piece (4) by inserting screws (8) through the slit (7).Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2003Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: Kenichi Toraishi
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Patent number: 6701977Abstract: A tinting machine system for tinting base paints (2) supplied in containers (1) which paints are suitable for use in coating compositions, which system has a) storage capacity (10) for colorant (11) b) accommodation for the container of base paint c) at least one colorant dispenser (8) and d) a collection of color recipes wherein the system also has e) weighing means (3) for weighing the container of tinted coating composition f) signalling means (4) for signalling the weight of a container of tinted coating composition from the weighing means to the processing means g) processing means (5) able to compare a correct weight stored in the collection of color recipes with a signalled weight and h) means for signalling if the weight of the container of tinted coating composition matches, alternatively fails to match, the corresponding weight stored in the collection of color recipes.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2001Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries, PLCInventors: Celia Charlotte Taylor, Ian David Oakes
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Patent number: 6701978Abstract: Easy Change Oil System is a unit composed of a disposable plastic bag, jug or bottle adapted to screw directly into the oil drain aperture of fourstroke outboard engines, and/or other small fourstroke engines. The system has a threaded cap or closure to seal the container. The system differs from all previous patents, see cross reference, in that it is threaded, screws directly into the oil drain aperture, is one unit, completely disposable, and requires no additional valves, or nozzles.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventor: William Thomas Buchanan
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Patent number: 6701979Abstract: In a machine (1) for filling containers with a liquid substance, a rotating head (2) is carried rotatingly by a stationary structure (3) and a liquid substance delivering chamber (4) is made inside the rotating head (2). A plurality of distributors (6) are arranged along the edge of the rotating head (2) for delivering the liquid substance to filling nozzles (7) associated with the rotating head (2). A basin (30) is associated to the stationary structure (3) for collecting a sterilizing liquid introduced into the distributors (6) and flowing in the nozzles (7) for sterilizing, by washing, the distributors (6) and the nozzles (7). The basin (30) is closed by a cover (32), fastened to the rotating head (2). A plurality of vertical tubes (34) pass tightly through the cover (32) and extend inside the basin (30), so as to be connected to the nozzles (7) and to the distributors (6) by flexible pipes (25A, 25B).Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: I.M.A. Industria Macchine Automatiche S.p.A.Inventors: Giovanni Servadei, Giancarlo Ori
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Patent number: 6701980Abstract: A fueling assembly for use in the transfer of fuel is disclosed. The assembly includes a platform and a plurality of swivel joints and pipe sections. The assembly can be folded onto and supported by the platform, and can be unfolded to extend away from the platform. A vertically-moving assembly and a horizontally-moving assembly are provided, each including two swivel joints and connected to each other by an elbow pipe. A coupler may be attached to one of the swivel joints for releasable coupling with a fueling assembly, and for receiving fuel from the fueling assembly. The hydrant may be attached to a pantograph or to any mobile pipeline or mobile pipe segment.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Nova Group, IncInventor: Guy G. Rothrock
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Patent number: 6701981Abstract: System for loading and unloading of fluid products to or from a vessel (1), where a fluid hose (4) is fastened to the bottom side of a submerged frame (2) so that the frame (2) is free to turn around a vertical axis with respect to the hose (4) in that an additional hose (9) is connected with the hose (4) at the frame and with the vessels coupling for loading and unloading, and that the frame (2) may be maneuvered with contact against the bottom of the vessel, and held in positioned during the operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Hitec Marine ASInventor: Claes W. Olsen
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Patent number: 6701982Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus and a method for a cover for placement over a gasoline hose assembly of a gasoline delivery system for a gasoline delivery truck. The cover comprises a hole for placement of the hose therein along with fasteners or a clip for attachment of the cover to the hose having weights stitched or formed into the hem of the cover in such a way to hold the edges of the cover down so as to prevent the entrance of rain or debris into the gasoline tank receiving nozzle.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Inventors: Alvaro A. Ortiz, Charles Lewis Letherwood, Jr.
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Patent number: 6701983Abstract: A peripherally driven veneer lathe employs a knife with an improved shape which increases the deflection resistance of the cutting edge and improves its cutting ability. A cutting edge (7c) is positioned on the flank side a predetermined distance (H) away from a point (X) of intersection of an extended plane of a cutting face (7a) and that of a flank (7b) of a knife (7) toward the downstream of the rotation of a log. The cutting face immediately following the cutting edge (7c) is formed as a connecting curved surface (7d) coinciding with a concentric arc distanced from the trajectory (G) of rotation of piercing projections (4a) of a peripheral-drive member (4) with a predetermined gap (S). Preferably, the angle (&agr;) formed by a line (D) tangent to the connecting curved surface (7d) at the cutting edge and the flank (7b) is roughly equal to the sharpness angle (&bgr;: 18° to 25°) of the conventional knife.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Meinan Machinery Works, Inc.Inventor: Masaru Koike