Patents Issued in May 4, 2004
  • Patent number: 6729240
    Abstract: An ignition isolating interrupt control circuit (52) includes a main transition circuit (90) isolating a first activation circuit (84) from an ignition circuit (114). The main transition circuit (90) includes a source terminal (93) that is electrically coupled to and receives a first source power from the first activation circuit (84). An input terminal (106) is electrically coupled to a second activation circuit (88) and receives an activation signal. An output terminal (138) is electrically coupled to the ignition circuit (114) and receives and supplies the first source power to the ignition circuit (114) in response to the activation signal. A power source monitor cutoff circuit (112) including a comparator is electrically coupled to the first activation circuit (84) and to the ignition circuit (114) and disables the ignition circuit (114) when a source voltage level is less than a predetermined voltage level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Gregory H. Smith, David M. Wheeler
  • Patent number: 6729241
    Abstract: An aerial cableway system has at least one load-bearing and conveying cable that is moved between a valley station and a mountain station, which is guided over deflection pulleys in the stations, and transportation devices that can be coupled to the load-bearing and conveying cable and that are formed by cabins and by chairs. The cabins and chairs can be uncoupled from the conveying cable in the stations, moved along guide rails through entry and exit regions located in the stations, and then once more coupled to the conveying cable. The entry and exit regions provided in the stations are respectively subdivided into two mutually separate sectors which follow each other in the direction of movement. A first sector is intended for the users of the cabins and a second sector is provided for the users of the chairs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Innova Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Gerhard Gabriel, Herbert Dür, Gerd Dür
  • Patent number: 6729242
    Abstract: A checkout console for use with a counter-top or conveyor belt point-of-sale checkout stand. The checkout console can support a cash drawer, printer, keyboard, and other such peripheral equipment, and can be mounted so that the top shelf is above a bar code scanner. By positioning the console between the cashier and the customer, twisting and turning be the cashier is greatly reduced. The console, once mounted, is vertically adjustable on demand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Philip S. Kerber
  • Patent number: 6729243
    Abstract: An extendable table having a stowable leaf member. The table includes a first table section having a first table surface and a second table section having a second table surface. The second table section is movably coupled to the first table section in a coplanar relationship. A leaf member is further provided and is selectively positionable in an operable position between the first table surface and the second table surface and a stowed position below the table surface. A pivoting assembly couples the leaf member to the first and second table sections and permits the leaf member to rotate about a generally vertical axis and a generally horizontal axis between an operable position and a stowed position. When in this stowed position, the leaf member is generally nestled along the underside of the extendable table out of sight of a guest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: La-Z-Boy Incorporated
    Inventor: Timothy L. Annas
  • Patent number: 6729244
    Abstract: A tubular-frame structure for supporting surfaces comprising a supporting surface (12, 12′), a flat frame (13) and legs (14), in which said frame (13) is composed of tubular profiles (15) which can be combined in various ways, characterised in that all the elements are joined through connection means which provide a firm and dismountable connection, constituted by devices (16) for coupling tubular profiles (15) and devices (17) for coupling tubular profiles (15) with a leg (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Leonardo S.r.l.
    Inventor: Carlo Cattaneo
  • Patent number: 6729245
    Abstract: A fill door for use on the angled surfaces of furnace shells and chemical containers. The door is pivotally coupled to a door frame integral with the angled surface and includes a rim that mates with a female channel in the door. A U-shaped latch is pivotally connected to the frame and includes a threaded spindle operatively connected to crack. The surface of the door includes a female sleeve having a bore for accommodating the end of the spindle when the latch is over the door and the spindle is tightened into its closed and locked position. The door further includes a cantilevered arm having an angled bore which allows it to swivel around a substantially vertical cylindrical post connected to frame. The arm and door swing in a substantially horizontal plane around the axis of the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth D. Clark
  • Patent number: 6729246
    Abstract: A garbage incinerator comprises an incinerator body having an elongated incinerating chamber, which forms an angle with a horizontal plane. A plurality of inlets are provided on the incinerator body for feeding burnable construction garbage and house refuse, respectively. A plurality of house refuse drying channels are provided in the incinerating chamber for drying the house refuse received from the inlets. A waste oil burner is provided at the bottom of the incinerating chamber. Also provided are a dust-removing device for removing dust from exhaust of the incinerator and a harmful substance detecting device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Koon Kwan Lo
  • Patent number: 6729247
    Abstract: A method, and apparatus, for cremating the remains of a deceased being. The method comprises transporting a mobile crematorium to a location wherein the deceased is to be cremated. The mobile crematorium comprises a first combustion chamber, wheels and a trailer hitch. The deceased remains are then heated in the first combustion chamber to a temperature of at least 1000° F. thereby creating combustion gases and noncombustible materials. The combustion gases are allowed to exit the first combustion chamber and the noncombustible materials are removed and placed in a storage device such as an urn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventors: Andrew Brown, Nelle B. Brown
  • Patent number: 6729248
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to additives for coal-fired furnaces, particularly furnaces using a layer of slag to capture coal particles for combustion. The additive(s) include iron, mineralizer(s), handling aid(s), flow aid(s), and/or abrasive material(s). The iron and mineralizers can lower the melting temperature of ash in low-iron, high alkali coals, leading to improved furnace performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: ADA Environmental Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Allen Johnson, John Wurster, John Philip Comer
  • Patent number: 6729249
    Abstract: An improved seed belt housing to reduce seed skip and method for same. The seed belt housing having a modified back panel with an area of impact absorbing material disposed at least in the area where the seed normally hits the back panel of the seed belt housing after being discharged by the seed meter. The impact absorbing material having the properties to dampen, absorb, or reduce the amount of bounce or ricochet otherwise experienced by the seed after hitting the back panel of the seed belt housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Precision Planting, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregg A. Sauder, Kenneth R. Dill, Don L. Dunlap, Derek A. Sauder
  • Patent number: 6729250
    Abstract: A flexible rotatable drive shaft is provided with a first male coupling that is received in a second female coupling located on a gearbox. The male coupling has two circumferential grooves that define a first fully engaged position and a second intermediate engaged position. In both engaged positions the male coupler is mounted to the gearbox, however only in the fully engaged position is the flexible rotatable drive shaft in a driving relationship with the gearbox. The female coupler is provided with a latch pin for selectively engaging the first and second circumferential grooves. The latch pin is provided with a circumferential surface for engaging the grooves and latching the flexible rotatable drive shaft to the gearbox and a recessed section for unlatching the flexible rotatable drive shaft from the gearbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignees: Deere & Company, Elliott Manufacturing Co. LLC
    Inventors: Michael Eric Friestad, Kevin Hause
  • Patent number: 6729251
    Abstract: A thread taking-up tool is attached to a needle bar sticking out of a sewing machine head, and its leading end has a plurality of thread holes. The thread holes of the thread taking-up tool are arranged in the lateral direction. A thread handling body has a cam face in the vertical direction. Needle threads from a tension device to needles are controlled by the vertical motion of the thread taking-up tool and the action of the cam face of the thread handling body. When the needles ascend from the lowest position, an endless hook attached to the thread taking-up tool is engaged with the left needle thread between the cam face lower end and the thread hole of the thread taking-up tool. Each thread is handled in with the left needle thread staying at the cam face lower end, so that the needle thread loop at the remotest end is absorbed surely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Pegasus Sewing Machine Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masahiko Nishikawa, Osamu Doyasu, Hiroyuki Iuchi
  • Patent number: 6729252
    Abstract: A thread winder unit, which is capable of winding thread of spools set on spool bars, is removably attached to a machine body. The sewing machine includes a feed motor for feeding the thread during sewing, an upper thread state detecting sensor disposed between the feed motor and the thread winder unit for detecting tensed thread, and a CPU for controlling thread winding operations based on a signal from the upper thread state detecting sensor. The sewing machine intermittently drives the feed motor in a reverse direction to that in the sewing to feed the thread toward the thread winder unit, every time the upper thread state detecting sensor detects the tensed thread, and the thread winder unit winds the fed thread around the spool. The CPU, recognizing the thread wound by a given amount, stops winding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Juki Corporation
    Inventors: Fumio Wada, Hiroyuki Kotaki
  • Patent number: 6729253
    Abstract: A sewing apparatus includes a thread cutting mechanism that cuts a thread connected to a work cloth. In response to an operation of an operating member and detachment of a sewing cartridge from a sewing apparatus body, the thread cutting mechanism is actuated. The thread cutting mechanism includes a thread cutting lever, a link mechanism, cutting blades, and an engagement mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Mamiya, Akira Terao
  • Patent number: 6729254
    Abstract: A sewing apparatus performs sewing operation on a work piece that moves along an X-Y plane perpendicular to an axial direction of a hollow needle having an inclined opening that is formed by angular cutting a portion of an end portion of the hollow needle that penetrates the work piece with respect to the axial direction of the hollow needle, by reciprocating the hollow needle in a penetrating direction, using a thread threaded in the hollow needle. In the sewing apparatus, Tatami stitches are formed on the work cloth with a plurality of stitches. First, a plurality of stitches are formed in a first stitching direction along a line angled between 20° and 160° with respect to a needle tip opening direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Brother Kogyô Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshiyuki Mamiya, Akira Terao
  • Patent number: 6729255
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed which provide a plurality of stitching machines which may be synchronized without mechanical coupling of the stitching machines. Each of the plurality of stitching machines are connected to a control, which coordinates operations of the stitching machines, including the download of patterns to be stitched by the stitching machines. A master stitching machine is selected by either the control, or the stitching machines. Each of the stitching machines, during stitching operations transmits a heartbeat signal to the master stitching machine. The heartbeat signal can include information related to stitching operations, which the master can use to determine that each stitching machine is operating properly. Several clusters of stitching machines may also be present, with each cluster having a master stitching machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Melco Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Bruce Ton, Peter Kern, Jurg Henz, Jeffrey T. Block, Dean Gerald Pearson
  • Patent number: 6729256
    Abstract: A personal watercraft designed to advance suitably in a forward direction, to prevent an influence of side waves, and to incline to the turning center side when being steered by an operator from a forward direction to a turned direction. The personal watercraft includes a keel provided at a middle portion in the widthwise direction of the bottom of the body and extending from the bow to the stern. The keel is formed in an arc in the widthwise direction of the body. The keel is configured such that, at the rear half portion of the body, the center of the arc of the keel substantially coincides with the position G of the center of gravity of the body. On the other hand, at the front half portion of the body, the radius R2 of the arc of the keel gradually decreases in the forward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takao Kochi, Tomohisa Abe, Bill Orr
  • Patent number: 6729257
    Abstract: A personal watercraft wherein air is introduced into a body through a gap formed between the body and a front hood and prohibiting permeation of sea water or other water in the body through the gap. A personal watercraft is basically configured such that a handlebar is disposed on the center line in the width direction of a body, a front hood for covering an upper front portion of the body is disposed in front of the handlebar, and left and right side covers are disposed at left and right lower edges of the front hood, respectively, wherein air is introduced into an in-body space through left and right gaps S between the side covers and the front hood. This personal watercraft includes left and right labyrinth structures for allowing an introduction of air into the in-body space and prohibiting permeation of water in the in-body space are provided in the gaps S between the front hood and the side covers, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Jun Nakajima, Tadaaki Nagata, Koji Mizuta
  • Patent number: 6729258
    Abstract: A trimaran vessel having a central hull (10) and two outer hulls (11) each small and of less draft compared to the central hull (10), the arrangement of the vessel being such that the draft of the vessel lessens when moving at speed due to dynamic lift developed by the movement and whereby because of the change in draft, the outer hulls (11) have little if any effect on buoyancy of the vessel when moving at speed. The increase in lift can be achieved by the use of foils (20) and/or other lifting surfaces and/or by the use of a planning hull design of at least the central hull (10). The vessel is particularly suitable for a load carrying vessel such as a ferry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventors: John Theodore Fuglsang, Stephen Geoffrey Quigley
  • Patent number: 6729259
    Abstract: A personal watercraft and an outfitting system for a personal watercraft are disclosed. The personal watercraft includes a cockpit configured to be occupied by a user when using the watercraft; and an item of outfitting coupled to the watercraft at a location at least partially inside of the cockpit, the item of outfitting being configured to help secure the user in the cockpit. The item of outfitting includes a shaped portion configured to contact the user, and a fluid-holding bladder disposed adjacent the shaped portion, wherein the fluid-holding bladder may be selectively filled with a fluid to push the shaped portion against the user to secure the user in the cockpit more tightly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: WaterMark Paddlesports, Inc.
    Inventors: Jesse J. Jerabek, Anthony E. Lee, Robert M. Kelly
  • Patent number: 6729260
    Abstract: A collapsible boat has a frame covered by a hull skin, the frame having two gunwales and a keel stringer terminating at two stem elements. The ends of the gunwales can be secured to the corresponding stem element by end connectors that connect to the stem element and are held by skin tension. Alternatively, the hull skin can secure the gunwale ends to the corresponding stem element, the gunwales residing in closed-ended gunwale sleeves and the hull skin being configured to secure the gunwale ends together and prevent upwards motion of the stem element. The closed ends can be openable to install the gunwales. To tension the hull skin over the frame, the keel stringer can have a central joint to allow installation in a bent configuration. The keel stringer is straightened during assembly to increase its effective length, causing the stem elements to forcibly engage the hull skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Alf J. Elvestad
  • Patent number: 6729261
    Abstract: A plasma processing apparatus includes, in order to efficiently cool an insulating plate having a relatively low thermal conductivity, a process chamber, the insulating plate divided into a plurality of regions and attached airtightly to the ceiling of the process chamber, a planar antenna member placed above the insulating plate and including microwave radiation holes for transmitting therethrough microwave used for generating plasma, and a support frame member supporting the insulating plate divided into a plurality of regions and including a heat medium path for flowing a heat medium along a line by which the insulating plate is divided into a plurality of regions and along a peripheral part of the insulating plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Toshiaki Hongo
  • Patent number: 6729262
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the automated milking of dairy cattle employing live capture of the teats of a dairy cow without requiring identification of a particular dairy cow or the prior knowledge of the location of the individual teats. The live capture milking apparatus locates the individual teats of a dairy cow and attaches a teatcup to the teat without the need for human intervention. After the milking operation is completed, the live capture milking apparatus returns to a home position where cleaning and sanitization the milking equipment occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Innovative Automation, Inc.
    Inventors: James A. Ealy, Benjamin L. Carpenter, Troy E. Chambers
  • Patent number: 6729263
    Abstract: An animal lift apparatus comprises a lift. The lift includes a rigid support sheet, wherein the rigid support sheet is capable of supporting an animal. A lifting mechanism is capable of raising or lowering the rigid support sheet to a desired position. The rigid support sheet is supported in a raised or lowered position by at least one lift arm. At least two wheels are connected to the lift to allow the animal lift apparatus to be rolled to a desired location. A release is capable of being engaged to enable the rigid support sheet to be raised or lowered to the desired position. At least one belt is capable of strapping the animal to the rigid support sheet. The rigid support sheet may also include a waste portal. A waste container may also be included, wherein the rigid support sheet is sloped such that waste from the animal may be directed toward the waste portal via the sloped rigid support sheet. Waste then flows through the waste portal into the waste container. At least two I.V.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventors: Theresa M. Miale, Gloria Miale
  • Patent number: 6729264
    Abstract: A livestock watering apparatus having a housing having a moveable door, a reservoir, and a valve system connected to a water source. The moveable door in combination with the valve mechanism provides a continuous flow of water to the water reservoir and allows animals to receive fresh water that is maintained at a desired level throughout the year.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Duenow
  • Patent number: 6729265
    Abstract: A method for supplementing new antibody or adding additional titer of an already present antibody into the circulating system in a newborn by feeding antibody to the newborn within the first few days of its life. The antibody is preferably obtained from the egg of an immunized mother and fed to the newborn within the first 24 hours of its life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Arkion Life Sciences LLC
    Inventors: Leslie A. Confer, Jeffrey G. Hunchar, Kevin C. Somerville
  • Patent number: 6729266
    Abstract: An animal isolation and caging system which maximizes cage density within a ventilated rack is provided. The rack includes at least one air exhaust plenum, and at least one canopy disposed within the rack for ventilation of the cages housed in a rack system. The rack is capable of supporting a first cage within the rack below a first canopy, and also positioning a second cage below a second canopy. The filter top of the first cage provided by the invention also provides a filter retainer having a filter top retainer wall designed to be in contact with a first canopy unit forming an enclosed space so configured as to create an enclosed space from which the animal isolation and caging system of the invention creates a zone of negative pressure so as to permit air to be drawn into an air exhaust plenum or duct from the interior of the first cage through the top of the first cage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Lab Products, Inc.
    Inventors: George S. Gabriel, Neil Campbell, Chin Soo Park, Lynn Irwin, Rodney Gerringer, Dale R. Murray, Richard Gabriel, Rick Dietrich
  • Patent number: 6729267
    Abstract: A corral apparatus has a pair of mounting brackets for securing at spaced locations on a surface of a vehicle, livestock trailer, or building, a pair of side panels each having a first end pivotally connected to a respective bracket, and an end panel pivotally secured between the second ends of the side panels, whereby the apparatus can be pivoted between an operative condition in which each side panel extends transverse to the surface and the end panel extends between the ends of the side panels, and a storage position in which the panels are folded flat against one another and the surface. The side panels are adjustable in length to vary the size of the coral.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Prairie Ridge Partners
    Inventor: Darrell D. Campbell
  • Patent number: 6729268
    Abstract: A rear support pet leash includes a loop portion and a lifting portion, both portions being formed of flexible material. The loop portion has first and second ends and a medial section. Each of the first and second ends is attached adjacent the medial section to form first and second leg loops for fastening about the upper rear legs of a pet. The lifting portion is attached at an attaching end to the medial portion of the loop portion and has an adjustable handle at a lifting end. The lifting portion is adjustable to accommodate pets and pet owners of varying height. Leg loop pads are removably attachable to the first and second leg loops to provide additional comfort for the pet. Sliding adjustment means are provided for varying the size of the leg loops to accommodate different size pets. The adjusting means may be rings buckles or fabric loops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Arnold P. Costell
  • Patent number: 6729269
    Abstract: A temperature regulator includes at least one electrically conductive carbon foam element. The foam element includes at least two locations adapted for receiving electrical connectors thereto for heating a fluid, such as engine oil. A combustion engine includes an engine block and at least one carbon foam element, the foam element extending into the engine block or disposed in thermal contact with at least one engine fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: UT-Battelle, LLC
    Inventors: Ronald D. Ott, April D. McMillan, Ashok Choudhury
  • Patent number: 6729270
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cooling circuit for a work machine that provides increased cooling capacity of a radiator without increasing the physical size of the radiator. The cooling circuit includes a jacket water pump, a jacket water portion of an engine and a radiator fluidly coupled to the circuit. A first powertrain oil cooler is fluidly coupled to the cooling circuit between the jacket water pump and the jacket water portion. A second powertrain oil cooler is fluidly coupled to the cooling circuit between the jacket water portion and the radiator. Positioning of the powertrain oil coolers in this manner increases the temperature differential between ambient air and coolant entering the radiator, therefore increasing cooling capacity of the radiator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc
    Inventors: Michael D. Betz, Jared P. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6729271
    Abstract: A closure cap for a fixed neck of a container, especially of a motor vehicle radiator. The closure cap comprises a cap inner part provided with a flow connection between the inside of the container and the outside of the container. The cap inner part includes a valve assembly for releasing and blocking the flow connection. The valve assembly includes a valve body is able to move in a to-and-fro manner. It is pressed with a bias in a direction toward the interior of the container against a sealing seat. The valve body is biased so that it can lift from the sealing seat when a limiting value of the inner pressure of the container is surpassed. The bias can be adjusted by a drive controlled by the operation of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Inventor: Heinrich Reutter
  • Patent number: 6729272
    Abstract: Deflecting ribs are provided within a coolant jacket formed in a cylinder head in such a manner as to protrude upwardly from bottom walls for directing the flow of coolant toward exhaust-valve-port side port wall portions The deflecting ribs for deflecting part of the flow of coolant toward the exhaust-valve-port side port wall portions are formed in such a manner as to extend from the intake-valve-port side port wall portions, and gaps are left between the exhaust-valve-port side port wall portions and the deflecting ribs for allowing the coolant to flow along the wall surfaces of the exhaust-valve-port side port wall portions, whereby there is generated no stagnation of the coolant on the wall surfaces of the exhaust-valve-port side port wall portions at the portions where the gaps are formed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Iizuka, Makoto Suzuki, Kiyoshi Takagi
  • Patent number: 6729273
    Abstract: In a piston actuation system of a V-type internal combustion engine with two cylinder banks having at least one pair of cylinders, a piston pin, an upper link, a lower link, and a control link are mechanically linked to each other for each cylinder bank. When changing a compression ratio of the engine, ends of the control links of the two cylinder banks are moved in synchronism. The lower links of the two cylinder banks are coaxially rotatably fitted on the outer periphery of the same crankpin whose axis is eccentric to the axis of the crankshaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shunichi Aoyama, Katsuya Moteki, Hiroya Fujimoto
  • Patent number: 6729274
    Abstract: A cylinder and a method for manufacturing a cylinder for an internal combustion engine is provided which avoids the generation of a step portion at the scavenging port without necessitating enhanced precision of the positioning of the working tools or the working location. A raw cylinder body is cast-molded with the scavenging port portion thereof being left closed. Subsequently, this closed scavenging port portion is cut out (or opened) by means of cutting work, etc. The cutting out of the closed scavenging port portion is performed by widening the cylinder bore side thereof at predetermined angles to the planes of the inner wall of the hollow scavenging passageway formed contiguous to the closed scavenging port portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Kioritz Corporation
    Inventors: Fujihiro Matuura, Takashi Fujisawa, Masahiro Inokuma
  • Patent number: 6729275
    Abstract: A two-stroke internal combustion engine with crankcase scavenging includes an exhaust passage controlled by the piston and at least two first transfer passages and at least one second transfer passage, each with a corresponding transfer window into the cylinder chamber and a window on the crankcase side for communication between the cylinder chamber and the crankcase, the transfer windows of the first transfer passages being controlled by the upper edge of the piston, and the crankcase-side window of the second transfer passage being disposed in a region of the cylinder wall that is swept by the piston skirt of the piston. The cylinder wall includes at least one recess which is arranged in close vicinity to the transfer window of the second transfer passage and which is in flow communication with the second transfer passage, wherein a narrow passage is arranged between the recess and the second transfer passage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: AVL List GmbH
    Inventor: Franz Laimböck
  • Patent number: 6729276
    Abstract: This invention concerns a two-stroke cycle engine, more specially it concerns a two-stroke cycle engine using a preceding air-layer for scavenging. It has a scavenger passage connected to a branching scavenger passage opened to said scavenging port. The engine has a connecting passage to link the air passage and the fuel passages so that negative pressure in the air passage forces the fuel-air mixture in the fuel passage into said air passage. Further, the engine according to this invention has a removable guide with a surface forming a curved smooth channel which is attachable to the scavenger passage in the crankcase from the mounting surface, and forms a portion of said scavenger passage with the curved channel. The blow-up angle of the scavenger passage varies along the circumferential direction of the cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Uenoyama, Yoshio Kobayashi, Kazunori Kudou
  • Patent number: 6729277
    Abstract: An electromagnetic valve controller estimates a dead time based on predetermined parameters. A dead time for the current cycle is determined based on the estimated dead time. The controller measures a dead time in the previous cycle. The controller determines a deviation between the dead time measured in the previous cycle and the dead time estimated in the previous cycle. The deviation is added to the dead time estimated in the current cycle to determine the dead time for the current cycle. The controller further determines a target de-energization timing indicating when to execute a valve timing command. The dead time determined for the current cycle is offset or subtracted from the target de-energization timing to determine an actual de-energization timing. An electromagnet of the valve is de-energized in accordance with the actual de-energization timing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshihiro Yamaki, Minoru Nakamura, Yoshinori Onohara
  • Patent number: 6729278
    Abstract: A dual coil, dual lift electromechanical valve actuator (10) that provides a closed valve position (P1), first high lift position (P2), and second low lift position (P3) wherein the second low lift position of the valve (20) is maintained without the need for supply of electrical current to the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Mazen Hammoud
  • Patent number: 6729279
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an arrangement for controlling at least one engine valve (25) of a combustion engine. The arrangement incorporates a hydraulic circuit with a pump (1), a control valve (2) which is designed to control a flow of medium in the circuit, and a power device (3) which is designed to move the engine valve (25) between open and closed positions. The pump (1) is designed to circulate a flow of medium continuously in at least part of the circuit during an operating state of the combustion engine, and the control valve (2) is designed to direct as necessary the flow of medium circulated by the pump (1) to the power device (3) so that the latter moves the motor valve (25) in a desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Scania CV AB (publ)
    Inventors: Ulf Lundqvist, Johan Eriksson, Johan Linderyd
  • Patent number: 6729280
    Abstract: A reference position of a camshaft used in detection of a rotational phase of the camshaft relative to an engine crankshaft during the feedback control operation of a variable valve-timing controlling system adjustably changing the valve-timing of the engine, is learned in such a manner that result of detection of the rotational phase is smoothed more effectively than when the feedback control operation of the variable valve-timing controlling system is carried out, so as absorb unequal spaces among detection subjects of the cam sensor arranged around the camshaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hirotada Muraki
  • Patent number: 6729282
    Abstract: A variable valve lift device according to the present invention includes a tappet case, a sway member and a sliding member. The tappet case makes contact with one of cams arranged at a camshaft driven rotationally due to a crankshaft of an internal combustion engine and which is driven reciprocally due to the rotation of the cam. The sway member is so supported in the tappet case as to allow sway of the sway member and has a sliding face displacing a valve stem in an axial direction of the valve stem. The sliding member is so arranged in the tappet case as to allow sliding of the sliding member and sways the sway member when the sliding member is slid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Masafumi Sugawara
  • Patent number: 6729283
    Abstract: The present invention controls the position of a center mounted spool valve (192) with an externally mounted vacuum controlled actuator (301). The actuator position is preferably controlled by a pulse width modulated or variable force solenoid (302), which modulates the amount of vacuum going to the actuator (301). A microprocessor (208) reads the phase angle and adjusts the duty cycle or current based on the error signal of the control loop (450). In a preferred embodiment, a position sensor (304) further controls the position of the spool valve (192). The position sensor (304) creates an inner loop (400) with position feedback on the position of the actuator (301) and spool valve (192), while the outer loop controls the phase angle. Added to the spool valve position is an offset to move the spool valve (192) to its steady state or null position (410).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Simpson, Braman Wing
  • Patent number: 6729284
    Abstract: An automotive engine arrangement 7 is provided having a VCT unit 96 wherein a lubrication oil restrictor 152 is incorporated with the VCT unit oil filter 127. The arrangement 7 of the present invention allows for VCT unit oil filter 127 to be installed in a cylinder head 18 of an automotive engine block 10 wherein placement of the VCT unit oil filter 127 in the appropriate location automatically installs the restrictor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Robert Wayne Lunsford
  • Patent number: 6729285
    Abstract: What is proposed is a lever-type cam follower (1) made of sheet metal, typically for a valve train of an internal combustion engine, said cam follower (1) comprising two parallel side walls (3a, 3b) connected by a crossbeam (2), an underside (4) of the crossbeam (2) having a support (6) for at least one gas exchange valve on one end (5), said support (6) being limited by guide walls (7a, 7b) extending parallel to the side walls (3a, 3b), wherein the one end (5) of the cam follower (1) is narrower than the rest of the length of the cam follower (1), and at least in the region of said one end (5), the side walls (3a, 3b) have a smaller mean wall thickness (DSM) than over the rest of said length, which wall thickness (DSM) increases at least in said region continuously from ends (8a, 8b) of the side walls (3a, 3b) in the direction of the crossbeam (2), and the thickness (DF) of the guide walls (7a 7b) is smaller than the mean wall thickness (DSM) in the region of the narrow one end (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: INA-Schaeffler KG
    Inventors: Reinhard Ammon, Robert Kamm, Wolfgang Mayer, Hubert Geus
  • Patent number: 6729286
    Abstract: A fuel supply apparatus capable of reducing the abrasion of a driving cam and a tappet without increasing the dimensions and weight of the apparatus. This fuel supply apparatus is provided with a tappet which has a pressure receiving surface contacting the driving cam of an engine. The tappet is provided at the part of a outer surface thereof which is in the vicinity of an outer circumference of the pressure receiving surface with a groove adapted to prevent the local concentration of stress on the tappet and having a V-shaped, semicircular or U-shaped cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiko Onishi, Takuya Uryu, Hiromichi Tsugami
  • Patent number: 6729287
    Abstract: A connection between a shaft end of a gas exchange valve of an internal combustion engine and a sleevelike actuating piston of a valve actuator, has at least two shell-like key pieces, surrounding the shaft end and on whose radially outer circumferential surface there is a conically tapering portion, pointing away from a combustion chamber of the engine, and extending in complementary fashion to the cone angle of a radially inner conical portion of a conical fastening sleeve that includes the key pieces, and the conical fastening sleeve and the key pieces can be braced axially against one another. Protrusions and recesses engaging one another are provided on the radially inner circumferential surface of the key pieces and on the radially outer circumferential surface of the shaft end of the gas exchange valve. The conical fastening sleeve is formed by the actuating piston and the actuating piston and the key pieces have threaded portions that can be screwed into one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Uwe Hammer, Sevan Tatiyosyan, Volker Beuche, Peter Lang, Stefan Reimer
  • Patent number: 6729288
    Abstract: A lash adjuster is provided which can keep a constant valve lifting amount. An adjust screw is brought into threaded engagement in a threaded hole formed in the bottom surface of an end plate of a lifter body. The adjust screw is biased in the axial direction by an elastic member. The threads of female threads of the threaded hole and the male threads on the adjust screw are serrated. The surface roughness of the pressure flanks of the serrated threads is set to 0.4 or over to prevent the adjust screw from retracting while turning when push-in loads are applied to the adjust screw from the valve stem, thereby stabilizing the valve lifting amount. Also, a slide member is mounted between the adjust screw and the valve stem and a retaining device is provided to prevent the slide member from turning relative to the nut member while supporting it so as to be movable in the axial direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Ken Yamamoto, Eiji Maeno
  • Patent number: 6729289
    Abstract: In an internal combustion engine having at least two working pistons, each reciprocating in one cylinder and acting on a crankshaft through one connecting rod each and with at least one balance piston movably mounted in a balance cylinder of its own for balancing the inertial forces, the balance piston is driven by the crankshaft through a balance connecting rod, the crank of the balance piston being disposed between the cranks of the two working pistons. The cylinders of the working pistons are disposed in a “V” arrangement and the axes of the cylinders of the working pistons are positioned at an angle of 0°<&agr;<45° to one another, the axis of the balance cylinder being arranged in a first center plane including the crankshaft axis between the two cylinders of the working pistons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: AVL List GmbH
    Inventors: Franz Laimböck, Christian Spanner
  • Patent number: 6729290
    Abstract: A piston (17) for an internal combustion engine. The piston (17) has a piston head (43) and a recess (46) formed in the piston head. A formation (91) is associated with the recess (46) for generating a turbulent motion in a fluid introduced into the recess. The formation (91) is configured to generate a swirling turbulent motion to the fluid introduced into the recess and preferably comprises spiral grooves (93) formed in the piston.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Aardvark Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: David James Rorke