Patents Issued in April 15, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040069529
    Abstract: A coaxial via structure adapted to transmit high speed signals or high intensity current through conductive layers of an electronic device carrier is provided. The coaxial via structure comprises a central conductive track and an external conductive track separated by a dielectric material and is positioned in a core of the electronic device carrier or in the full thickness of the electronic device. The coaxial via structure can be combined with a stacked via structure so as allow efficient transmission of high speed signals across the electronic device carrier when a manufacturing process limits the creation of a full coaxial via structure across the entire electronic device carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Stefano S. Oggioni, Gianluca Rogiani, Mauro Spreafico, Giorgio Viero
  • Publication number: 20040069530
    Abstract: A pressure pulse generator for use in MWD operations in a drilling installation having a drillstring, a drilling bit, means for supply drilling fluid via the interior of the drillstring to the drilling bit, and an annulus between the drillstring and the wall of the bore hole being formed. The pressure generator generates a pressure pulse signal in the drilling fluid which transmits such signal to pressure monitoring equipment at the surface. The pressure pulse generator includes an outer housing which can be mounted in a drillstring component, and in which the operating components of the pulse generator are housed; a main valve having a valve operating chamber which allows drilling fluid to pass from the interior of the drillstring to the exterior when the valve is opened, and thereby to generator a pressure pulse signal that travels to the surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Kenneth Prain, John Knight
  • Publication number: 20040069531
    Abstract: A rotary drill bit for drilling subterranean formations configured with at least one protective structure proximate to the rotationally leading and trailing edges of a gage trimmer, wherein the at least one protective structure is positioned at substantially the same exposure as its associated gage trimmer. Particularly, the apparatus of the present invention may provide protection for gage trimmers during drilling, tripping, and/or rotation within a casing; i.e., when changing a drilling fluid. Protective structures may be configured and located according to anticipated drilling conditions including helix angles. In addition, a protective structure may be proximate to more than one gage trimmer while having a substantially equal exposure to each associated gage trimmer. Methods of use and a method of rotary bit design are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Ronny D. McCormick, Mumtaz Ball, Mark E. Anderson, Mark W. Dykstra, Michael L. Doster, Matthew R. Isbell
  • Publication number: 20040069532
    Abstract: A torque track in conjunction with parallelogram links and a hydraulic cylinder is used for multiple purposes in a drilling rig top drive system. The torque track is rotationally mounted within the mast between the crown and the rig floor and pivotally mounted by the parallel linkages to the sides of a power swivel. The hydraulic cylinder is mounted to an arm at the lower end of the track and it's other end is connected to the fixed rig structure. When the power swivel is supplying torque during drilling, the linkage transmits the torque to the track which is restrained from rotating by the hydraulic cylinder. The torque is thereby transmitted via the hydraulic cylinder to the fixed rig structure rather than the mast. The hydraulic cylinder can also be used as a load cell to allow torque measurement as well as to pivot the power swivel when needed for pipe handling purposes. The arrangement thus provides triple top drive functionality.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Larry G. Keast
  • Publication number: 20040069533
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for horizontal ground-boring, in particular for rock-boring, by means of a rotating and hammering driven ground-boring device, whereby the device is alternately or simultaneously supplied with compressed air and drilling medium and the compressed air and drilling medium are supplied through a channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Franz-Josef Puttmann
  • Publication number: 20040069534
    Abstract: A multi-stage diffuser nozzle for use as a drill bit nozzle jet includes a flow restriction portion upstream of a fluidic distributor portion, and also preferably includes a transition region between these two. The flow restrictor communicates with the interior fluid plenum of a drill bit and is used to limit or restrict the total flow of drilling fluid by having a relatively small cross-sectional area for fluid flow. The fluidic distributor communicates with the flow restrictor and reduces the exit flow velocities of the drilling fluid as the drilling fluid is ejected from the nozzle by providing a relatively larger cross-sectional area for fluid flow. The fluidic distributor also directs the flow paths of the drilling fluid to locations such as cone surfaces that are prone to bit balling. The transition region is an area that dampens fluid pressure oscillations in the drilling fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: SMITH INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: James L. Larsen, Godwin Apeh Gabriel, Michael A. Siracki, Dwayne P. Terracina
  • Publication number: 20040069535
    Abstract: An anti-plugging oscillating shear valve system for generating pressure fluctuations in a flowing drilling fluid comprising a stationary stator and an oscillating rotor, both with axial flow passages. The rotor oscillates in close proximity to the stator, at least partially blocking the flow through the stator and generating oscillating pressure pulses. The rotor passes through two zero speed positions during each cycle, facilitating rapid changes in signal phase, frequency, and/or amplitude facilitating enhanced data encoding. The rotor is driven by a electric motor disposed in a lubricant filled housing. In one embodiment, the housing to shaft seal is a flexible bellows. In one embodiment, a torsional spring is attached to the motor and the resulting spring mass system is designed to be near resonance at the desired pulse frequency. The torsion spring may be a solid torsion bar or a magnetic spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 11, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Detlef Hahn, Volker Peters, Cedric Rouatbi
  • Publication number: 20040069536
    Abstract: A method of minimizing the quantity of solids deposited in a reserve pit of the type used in drilling oil and gas wells. The method is applicable to well sites where drilling is facilitated by the use of drilling fluid and cuttings are generated by a drill bit, lifted to the surface and deposited at a well bore. The method consists of separating cuttings from associated drilling fluid and conveying larger cuttings to a solids storage location, thus bypassing the reserve pit for a good deal of the solid waste generated at a drilling site. Residual drilling fluid is directed to a reservoir such as a suction tank where it can be reused in further drilling operations. Over time the residual drilling fluid in the suction tank will increase in viscosity to the point where the residue is no longer suitable as drilling fluid. Thereupon, a portion of the residue may be discarded from the suction tank to the reserve pit and water or drilling chemicals added to the suction tank to revitalize the drilling fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: Rocky Mountain Fluid Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Cowan
  • Publication number: 20040069537
    Abstract: Methods of consolidating unconsolidated weak zones or formations and forming chemical casings include drilling a well bore with a drilling fluid having a pH in the range of from about 6 to 10 and that comprises water, a polymeric cationic catalyst which is adsorbed on the mineral surfaces in the weak zone, a particulate curable solid thermoset resin and a delay acid catalyst for curing the solid resin, and forming a filter cake on the walls of the well bore. The filter cake is then contacted with a treating fluid comprising a water soluble or water dispersible polymer which is capable of being crosslinked by a thermoset resin and causing the resin to be hard and tough when cured, and a water soluble or dispersible thermoset resin, whereby the treating fluid components deposit on the filter cake and the thermoset resin cures into a hard and tough cross-linked chemical casing thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: B. Raghava Reddy, Larry S. Eoff, Donald L. Whitfill, J. Michael Wilson, Denise Berryhill, Russel M. Fitzgerald, Thomas E. Becker, Jimmie D. Weaver
  • Publication number: 20040069538
    Abstract: Methods of consolidating formations include drilling a well bore with a drilling fluid that comprises water, a polymeric cationic catalyst which is adsorbed on minerals and rocks in weak unconsolidated zones or formations and then further contacting the unconsolidated formation with a treating fluid comprising a water soluble or dispersible polymer which is cross-linked by a thermoset resin and causes the resin to be hard and tough when cured, and a water soluble or dispersible thermoset resin which cross-links the polymer, is catalyzed and cured by the catalyst and consolidates the weak zone or formation so that sloughing is prevented.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: B. Raghava Reddy, Larry S. Eoff, Donald L. Whitfill, J. Michael Wilson, Denise Berryhill, Russel M. Fitzgerald, Thomas E. Becker, Jimmie D. Weaver
  • Publication number: 20040069539
    Abstract: An improved drill bit for use in drilling operations in a wellbore comprising a bit body including a plurality of bit legs, each supporting a rolling cone cutter, a coupling member formed at an upper shank portion of said bit body, at least one sensor for monitoring at least one condition of said improved drill bit during drilling operations, and an electronics bay portion defined in-part by said upper shank portion of said bit body for housing at least one monitoring circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Eric Charles Sullivan, Theodore Edward Zaleski, Scott Ray Schmidt, Don Quy Nguyen, Glenn R. Zadrapa, Timothy K. Marvel, Daniel E. Ruff
  • Publication number: 20040069540
    Abstract: A drill hit for drilling a borehole into an earth formation is provided. The drill bit has a central longitudinal axis and a bottom surface facing the borehole bottom during drilling with the drill bit, and comprises primary fluid injection means (10) arranged at the bottom surface and located at a selected radial distance from the central longitudinal axis, the primary fluid injection means being arranged to eject a primary stream of fluid into the borehole, the primary stream having a component in a transverse plane of the drill bit, directed from the fluid injection means to the central longitudinal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Petrus Cornelis Kriesels, Djurre Hans Zijsling
  • Publication number: 20040069541
    Abstract: A weigh scale is disclosed for facilitating the weighing of obese users, handicapped users, elderly users, and others who have difficulty supporting themselves by giving a user the option of standing or sitting while being weighed. The weigh scale broadly comprises a platform, having at least one load sensor coupled thereto, large enough to allow a user to comfortably step onto it and position himself or herself to be weighed, an upright support structure secured to the platform so that the user may steady himself or herself while being weighed, a fold-away seat secured to the support structure so that the user may sit while being weighed, and a display for displaying the weight measured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: David Hal Perry
  • Publication number: 20040069542
    Abstract: An electric drive system is provided. The electric drive system includes a first output member, a second output member, and an electric motor that includes an output shaft having an axis of rotation. The output shaft is operatively engaged with the first and second output members to rotate the first and second output members. A differential steering system is disposed between the electric motor and the first and second output members. The differential steering system includes at least one planetary gear assembly that has an axis of rotation that substantially aligns with the axis of rotation of the output shaft. A steering motor is operatively engaged with the at least one planetary gear assembly and is operable to modify the rotational speed of the at least one planetary gear assembly to thereby adjust the rotational speed of one of the first and second output members relative to the other of the first and second output members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald P. Simmons, Michael E. Vanderham
  • Publication number: 20040069543
    Abstract: A transporter for transporting a subject over a surface that may be irregular. The transporter includes a support platform for supporting a load, the loaded support platform defining fore-aft and lateral planes and characterized by a load distribution. A plurality of ground contacting elements are coupled to the support platform. At least one of the plurality of ground contacting elements is driven by a motorized drive arrangement. A sensor module generates a signal indicative of the load distribution of the loaded support platform. Based at least on the load distribution, a controller commands the motorized drive arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 11, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Dean L. Kamen, Robert R. Ambrogi, J. Douglas Field, John David Heinzmann, Richard Kurt Heinzmann, Christopher C. Langenfeld
  • Publication number: 20040069544
    Abstract: A combined truck and delivery box auger apparatus is disclosed for transporting, discharging and optionally mixing feed. The apparatus includes a chassis and an engine secured to the chassis. A transmission is drivingly coupled to the engine. A gearbox is secured to the chassis, the gearbox having a first and a second input and an output. The output of the gearbox is selectively driven by the first and second input, the first input being drivingly connected to the transmission. The second input is drivingly connected to a hydraulic motor which is driven by the engine. The arrangement is such that in a first mode of operation, the truck is driven by the transmission and in a second mode of operation, the truck is driven by the hydraulic motor, the second mode of operation enabling a slow ground speed for the discharge of the feed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel R. Brauer
  • Publication number: 20040069545
    Abstract: A method for assembling vehicular structural frames employing elongated members and connectors interconnecting the elongated members increases flexibility in assembling chassis frames and body frames. The method includes assembling a first vehicle structural frame according to a first design, and assembling a second vehicle structural frame according to a second design. The second design is derived from the first design by replacing elongated members of the first design with differently-dimensioned elongated members, or by changing the quantity of elongated members, to result in a second structural frame configuration different from the first structural frame configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Adrian B. Chernoff, Tommy E. White
  • Publication number: 20040069546
    Abstract: The powertrain thermal system of the present invention contains and/or utilizes various sensors and signals. Some are located within the powertrain thermal system itself. However, the majority are located in other systems of the hybrid electrical vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Zheng Lou, Peri Sabhapathy
  • Publication number: 20040069547
    Abstract: An electric machine (10) coupled to an internal combustion engine in a motor vehicle is proposed, a control unit (11) being provided for specifying an optimal efficiency operating state (Bw) or for specifying a dynamically optimal operating state (Bd) for the electric machine (10). Switchover means are used for switching over the usually specified optimal efficiency operating state to the dynamically optimal operating state (Bd) before operating procedures in the motor vehicle which require a rapid torque setting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Dieter Hoetzer, Martin Eisenhardt
  • Publication number: 20040069548
    Abstract: In a hybrid vehicle in which front wheels are driven by an engine and a front motor, and rear wheels are driven by a main rear motor and a sub rear motor, both main rear motor and the sub rear motor are driven when a large driving force is required as when the vehicle is driven at low speed to haul a trailer or the like or to run on a sandy ground, whereas when the required driving force is small, only the main rear motor is driven.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Nobuhiro Kira, Tetsuya Hasebe, Ryo Nishikawa
  • Publication number: 20040069549
    Abstract: An electric vehicle includes a motor, a first controller that controls the motor, a chargeable battery supplying electric power to the motor, a second controller connected to the battery that controls electric charge for the battery and electric discharge from the battery and a first communication path that communicates between the first controller and the second controller. The first and the second controllers each includes a mutual actuating unit for actuating the other controller via the first communication path in response to actuation of the first or second controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tomohiro Ono, Junji Terada, Atsushi Kurosawa, Hiroaki Yagi, Koushi Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20040069550
    Abstract: A chassis frame for a vehicle such as a motorcycle is provided with an engine mounted at the chassis frame and an engine guard near the engine spaced apart between chassis frame and the engine to protect the engine. The engine guard protrudes toward the chassis frame. An inclined surface is formed inside the chassis side of the engine guard so as to be oppositely faced against the engine, and an air guide passage is formed between the inclined surface and the engine. During operation of the vehicle, the air or wind passes through the air guide passage to enhance the cooling of the engine. The aforementioned arrangement prevents the disturbance or prohibition of the flow of engine cooling air during operation of the motorcycle while also enabling a relatively high degree of freedom in design with respect to an outer appearance of the engine guard and vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Masamoto Ito, Kenji Tamura, Hidemi Minami
  • Publication number: 20040069551
    Abstract: A passenger car includes an engine that is mounted in the front end, from which a drive shaft leads to the rear wheels of the vehicle, and a fuel tank that is mounted between the vehicle seats and that extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, the drive shaft running basically alongside the fuel tank from front to rear. An exhaust system of the engine, which is designed as an internal combustion engine, preferably runs from front to rear on the side of the fuel tank that is opposite the drive shaft. The fuel tank may be configured more narrowly in its top section than in its geodetically lower section and, in particular, have an approximately pear-shaped cross section and be designed to hold liquefied gas, especially liquid hydrogen. Preferably, the drive shaft of the vehicle engine runs in the vehicle longitudinal direction, and a gear reduction manual transmission that is provided between the engine and the drive shaft for the rear wheels is mounted on the side of the engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Jurgen Greil
  • Publication number: 20040069552
    Abstract: Motorcycle of the type comprising a frame, a seat for the rider, a seat for the passenger, a handgrip for the passenger, a fuel tank, an opening in said tank, a orifice flange situated in said opening, a cap for closing the tank situated inside said flange and a handgrip for the passenger associated with the orifice flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Vincenzo Galvagno
  • Publication number: 20040069553
    Abstract: An articulated vehicle with a working device has a first frame having a prime mover mounted thereon and supporting a first transaxle apparatus. The first transaxle apparatus includes an input shalt receiving power from the prime mover, a pair of first axles, and a hydrostatic transmission. The hydrostatic transmission comprises a variable hydraulic pump, a first hydraulic motor fluidly connected to the hydraulic pump via a fluid passage, and a housing with a port fluidly connected to the fluid passage. The second transaxle apparatus includes a pair of second axles having different lengths and a second hydraulic motor. The second hydraulic motor is fluidly connected to the port. Proximal ends of the first and second frames with respect to the vehicle are coupled to each other so that the first anid second flames are rotatable around a vertical axis relative to each other when steered.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Ryota Ohashi, Hideaki Okada
  • Publication number: 20040069554
    Abstract: An apparatus for receiving a robot driver in a motor vehicle having a driver's seat and a driver's lap belt, composed of:a mounting portion adapted to rest on the driver's seat for supporting the robot driver; and at least one locking element carried by the mounting portion and engageable with the driver's lap belt for holding the mounting portion securely on the driver's seat vehicle in a position suitable for proper operation of the robot driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Kurt Staehle
  • Publication number: 20040069555
    Abstract: When collision detection unit such as a G sensor or a radar sensor detects a collision of a two-wheeled vehicle with a car body, a protection determination unit determines the necessity for protection. When it is determined that protection is required, at least one protection net are unfolded in response to the strength of the collision, etc. If the human body of the driver, passenger, etc., of the two-wheeled vehicle attempts to jump the car body in the collision, the human body can be caught in the protection net for making it possible to prevent a secondary disaster from occurring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: FUJITSU TEN LIMITED
    Inventor: Kimihisa Yoneda
  • Publication number: 20040069556
    Abstract: A structural frame for a vehicle chassis includes transversely-oriented unitary structural members interconnecting at least three longitudinally-oriented elongated members. The use of unitary structural members and elongated members provides flexibility in assembling structural frames of differing configurations. Correspondingly, a method of assembling structural frames having transversely-oriented unitary structural members interconnecting at least three longitudinally-oriented elongated members is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Adrian B. Chernoff, Tommy E. White
  • Publication number: 20040069557
    Abstract: A shifting mechanism for electric vehicles includes an operation bar coupled with a universal joint mounting on an electric vehicle body. The operation bar may be turned and swiveled in multiple directions and has a free end movable according to preset paths of a guiding means. The operation bar may be swiveled in different directions or through the guiding means to switch circuits that control motor positive rotation and reverse rotation at high speed or low speed. Thereby a definite direction is provided to switch the direction and speed. The switches are located on different positions and arranged in low—high speed and forward (positive rotation)—backward (reverse rotation) fashion so that the backward movement can only be exercised at the low speed to avoid the risk of backward high speed condition to secure safety for children's ride-on electric vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Yih-Yuan Lan, Ming-Chia Wu
  • Publication number: 20040069558
    Abstract: Generally, the present invention relates to a shield for a belt-driven clutch system of a snowmobile having a shield portion and a pivot portion that is angled nonperpendicular relative to the shield portion. One embodiment of the invention is a clutch shield assembly with a first (shield) portion having first and second ends, and a second (pivot) portion with a pivot point that is formed at the first portion first end and that extends at an angle nonperpendicular relative to the first end of the first portion. The shield is pivotally mounted to the vehicle at the pivot point and rotates between a first position covering the clutch and a second position removed from the clutch. Further, an attachment portion releasably secures the first portion second end to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: Arctic Cat, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell Ebert
  • Publication number: 20040069559
    Abstract: In an electric power steering system, a second bevel gear is allowed to move toward a first bevel gear and is biased by a biasing member toward the first bevel gear thereby to be moved toward the first bevel gear as following the wearing away of these bevel gears.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Souichi Iwasa, Takeshi Izumi
  • Publication number: 20040069560
    Abstract: A hearing device, which is to be applied to an area of an individual's ear, is manufactured in that the skin of that application area is first analyzed and the outer surface area of the hearing device is adapted to the characteristics of that skin, thereby taking into account the result of said analyzing. Analyzing may preferably be directed on characteristics of visual appearance, surface structure, chemical surface characteristics, mechanical behavior and state of health of such skin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2001
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Christoph Widmer
  • Publication number: 20040069561
    Abstract: The invention provides a loudspeaker system having a housing made of a plastic casing and a foam positioned against the interior walls of the casing through a reaction between the foam and the interior wall. The foam increases the stiffness of the walls as well as provides sound damping. Additionally, the foam may create a foam rib between a stud and the casing to support the stud and transfer the stiffness of the stud to a wall of the casing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: David H. Cox, Chen-Hui Huang
  • Publication number: 20040069562
    Abstract: An exhaust pipe structure has, under a floor of a vehicle, an exhaust passage for exhaust gas discharged from a vehicle-installed engine, and at least one muffler is provided on an intermediate portion of the exhaust passage. The at least one muffler includes a main muffler having the greatest muffler capacity. An external cylinder forming an outer shell portion of the main muffler has a circular sectional shape having a diameter of 100 mm to 150 mm, or a sectional shape that is substantially equal to an area of the circular sectional shape. The external cylinder has a length of 800 mm to 12000 mm. The main muffler is disposed in a tunnel portion that is formed between the front wheels and the rear wheels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Tadashi Kondo, Junichi Yamaguchi, Katsuro Arimura
  • Publication number: 20040069563
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sound absorber mounted on or in a component, wherein a sound which is to be absorbed is propagated. The silencer comprises a hollow body, which communicates with the component or forms a component part of the component. A plurality of Helmholtz resonators which operate in a parallel manner are arranged behind each other in the axial direction of the hollow body in at least one axial part of the hollow body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Thomas Zirkelbach
  • Publication number: 20040069564
    Abstract: Acoustical attenuating devices (52) and method of forming them. The attenuating devices (52) include an exterior layer (64), a sound absorption layer (66), and multiple perforated layers (68) coupled to the sound absorption layer (66). The perforated layers (68) include a perforated structural layer (70) and a perforated substrate layer (72). The perforated structural layer (70) and the perforated substrate layer (72) provide structural stiffness and define multiple resonating tubes (88) that attenuate sound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Shuo Wang, Gordon Ebbitt, Mark W. Fero, Roland Woodcock, Brian A. Cristea, Paul G. Deacon
  • Publication number: 20040069565
    Abstract: A termination arrangement for a horizontal lifeline cable (4) for use with a structure (6) includes an elongate stocking (14) of woven wire form surrounding an end section of the cable (4). The stocking (14) has a first end (22) adapted and arranged for secure connection to the structure (6), and a second end (28) secured to the cable (4). Tension applied to the cable results in elongation of the stocking (14) and contraction onto the cable so that the cable is securely gripped by the stocking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Michael Luke, Simon Luke
  • Publication number: 20040069566
    Abstract: A ladder for a truck fitted with a pivotal tailgate, the ladder comprising a first leg portion pivotally coupled to a second leg portion, where at least one of the leg portions is fitted with at least one rung. An upper end of the first leg portion is pivotally attachable to an upper portion of the tailgate and a lower end of the second leg portion is pivotally attachable to a lower portion of the truck. When the tailgate is in its closed position, the first leg portion and the second leg portion continuously extend in a first operable position and opening the tailgate facilitates deploying the ladder into a corresponding second operable position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Asaf Bareket
  • Publication number: 20040069567
    Abstract: Ladder attachment apparatus and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an attachment apparatus for a ladder includes a main support adapted to be coupled to the ladder approximately parallel to the rungs. The main support includes a first coupling member proximate a first one of the elongated rails of the ladder and a second coupling member proximate another one of the elongated rails. The attachment apparatus further includes first and second support modules removeably coupled to the first and second coupling members, respectively. Each support module includes a support member including a proximal end and a distal end, and a support arm attached to the support member proximate the distal end and projecting outwardly therefrom in a first direction. The support member includes at least one projecting portion that is removeably coupleable to the corresponding one of the first and second coupling members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Skye Lechner Wollenberg, Neil Garrett Stockman
  • Publication number: 20040069568
    Abstract: A mobile scaffolding (10) for elevating a worker (not shown) above a floor or ground surface (S) is disclosed. The scaffolding (10) broadly includes a pair of frames (12) and (14), a platform (16) supported by the frames (12,14), a pair of casters (18, 20) and (22,24) rollably supporting a respective one of the frames (12,14), and a brake assembly (26, 28,30, and 32) associated with a corresponding one of the casters (18,20,22,24), respectively. The inventive brake assemblies (26,28,30,32) enable the worker supported on the platform (16) to selectively activate and deactivate the respective brake assemblies (26,28,30,32) from the platform (16). This enables the worker supported on the platform (16) to deactivate the brake assemblies (26,28,30,32), reposition the scaffolding (10), and then reactivate the brake assemblies (26,28,30,32) without requiring the worker to dismount from the platform (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Steven J. Wyse, James L. Wyse
  • Publication number: 20040069569
    Abstract: A comfort attachment for a ladder for a worker to stand on. The attachment structure has a large step as may be found on a stairway and vertical cushioned area against which a worker my lean that will provide support for their legs. The attachment is secured to a ladder by means of spring loaded brackets on the top and a bracket on the bottom that fits securely over a ladder rung. When installed the attachment provides a horizontal step to stand on and a vertical cushion to lean against.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Harry Arthur Fraser
  • Publication number: 20040069570
    Abstract: A lubricator apparatus comprises a tank having a lower portion forming a reservoir for lubricating oil to be combined with compressed air to form a lubricating air-oil mist. The tank bottom has a surface exposed to the lubricating oil in the tank and an air passageway therethrough between an air inlet and an air outlet through which the compressed air is passed before it enters the tank. A solenoid valve is mounted in a heat-transfer relationship to the tank bottom, the valve operatively controlling the air passageway, whereby heat generated by solenoid operation is transferred to the lubricating oil to raise the temperature of the oil. The tank bottom may also include a filter and condensate drain system to filter the compressed air and remove moisture therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: John Baumann
  • Publication number: 20040069571
    Abstract: The present invention provides a roll-edge stamped metal drip tray with a wire retaining bar hinged at one end and secured at another end by a locking slot. The wire retaining bar holds an absorbent material in the drip pan. The wire retaining bar may be provided at a distance away from the edge of the drip pan to as to prevent the absorbent material from blowing out of the pan. The wire retaining bar may be released from its locking slot an one end, and the bar hinged upwards to a substantially vertical position, where the wire retaining bar is prevented from falling backwards by bends in the retaining bar hinge portion. Once an absorbent material is inserted into the pan, the wire retaining bar may be lowered into position and locked into place using one or more locking slots which accept a suitably formed wire portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Elliot W. Lee
  • Publication number: 20040069572
    Abstract: A solution is to be created with a device for storing and transferring products in small packets as an independent, tower-like structure to be set up in traffic areas, with which a compact interim storage area can be made available at any desired location, particularly in the region of generally accessible traffic areas, for example pedestrian shopping zones or the like, whereby the loading position does not necessarily have to agree with the removal position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Anke Jaspers, Lars Siebel, Winfried Schroer
  • Publication number: 20040069573
    Abstract: A capacitive sensor for sensing the thickness of an automobile brake pad is provided. The sensing capacitor includes a pair of parallel plates that are arranged such that brake pad wear reduces the size of one or both of the pads. The reduced size of the plate(s) is detectable as a change in capacitance between the plates. In on aspect a reference capacitor is also placed within the brake pad. The reference capacitor includes a pair of plates that do not change size during wear of the brake pad. The capacitance of the sensing capacitor can be compared to the capacitance of the reference capacitor for a more accurate indication of pad wear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: Rosemount Inc.
    Inventor: William T. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20040069574
    Abstract: A safety chock (16) for large wheeled vehicles. A torque arm component (26, 24, 20, 21) maintains and positions an underside face (37) of a shoe (30) in proper position relative to the travelling surface (14), when moving the chock (16) from a cruise position to a chocking position. A tierod assembly (24, 28, 27, 23, 21) positions a receiving face (31) of the shoe (30) to engage the wheel (13). The two components rotate in concert to accurately place the shoe (30) to engage the wheel (13) in an optimal chocking position as the shoe receiving face (31) is engaging the periphery of the wheel (13) simultaneously with the shoe underside face (37) contacting the traveling surface (14). This safety chock (16) operates independent of the ride or loaded height of the vehicle as it is attached to the axle (12), or the suspension components of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Vincent Fougere
  • Publication number: 20040069575
    Abstract: A disc brake assembly includes a rotatable hub and at least one disc supported on the hub for rotation therewith about an axis, and slideable axially along the hub. A guide member is disposed between the hub and disc. A spring member is separately formed from the guide member and acts between the guide member and the hub to impart a constant radial force against the guide member and thus the disc in such manner as to position the guide member in constant engagement with the disc to maintain alignment and prevent rattling of the disc on the hub.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Paul J Mura, Richard J. Kowalczyk, Keith W. Deyer
  • Publication number: 20040069576
    Abstract: A wheel bearing assembly is provided which can suppress brake judder. A film is disposed between the brake rotor-mounting surface of the wheel mounting flange and an abutment surface of a brake rotor to fill a gap therebetween to suppress the deformation of the brake rotor. Also, by concentrating the contact force between the wheel-mounting flange and the brake rotor when a disc wheel of the wheel is tightened to the hub bolts to a portion near the hub bolts, the contact between the wheel-mounting flange and the brake rotor on the surfaces between the hub bolts is suppressed so that undulation of the flat surfaces between the hub bolts will not cause deformation of the brake rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Akira Torii, Shigeaki Fukushima, Eiji Tajima
  • Publication number: 20040069577
    Abstract: A brake adjuster for adjusting the working clearance of the shoes of an automotive drum brake, the adjuster including three co-axial elements a first rod element (25) having a head portion for engagement with a first brake shoe and a threaded stem portion, an intermediate element (28) in threaded engagement with the first rod element and a second rod element (27) having a head portion for engagement with a second brake shoe and a stem portion slideably connected with the intermediate element (28) and free to rotate relative thereto. A reaction member (30) is mounted on the intermediate element (28) and a ring gear (35) is provided on the intermediate element which is axially located between the second rod element and the reaction member. A leaf spring (31) acts between the second rod element (27) and the reaction member (30) for pushing the second rod element away from the intermediate element (28).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventors: Adriano Girini, Luigi Tessitore, David Peasley
  • Publication number: 20040069578
    Abstract: A load-transmitting arrangement (14) with articulated function for taking up and transmitting a pedal force, in particular a brake pedal force, is described. A braking device (10) of a brake system comprising the load-transmitting arrangement (14) is further described. The load-transmitting arrangement (14) has a first load-transmitting member (20), which has a receiving sleeve (20A) for a second load-transmitting member (22), an end of the second load-transmitting member (22) that projects into the receiving sleeve (20A) engaging behind a snap element (30B), which locks the second load-transmitting member (22) against withdrawal from the receiving sleeve (20A). The end of the second load-transmitting member (22) that engages behind the snap device (30) is a joint head, which is supported pivotally inside the receiving sleeve (20A). The second load-transmitting member (22) is is coupled movably to a support device (32), against which the snap element (30B) is non-pivotally supported.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2003
    Publication date: April 15, 2004
    Inventor: Boris Koth