Patents Issued in June 1, 2004
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Patent number: 6742434Abstract: A machine gun incorporates an additional helical cam assembly to reduce asymmetrical loads imposed on the bolt head and bolt body. Bearing pads positioned on the bolt head serve to support the bolt head within the chamber area of the forward portion of the rotor to thereby improve the accuracy and consistency of firing pin strikes against the primer, resulting in improved cartridge detonation.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Michael J. Dillon
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Patent number: 6742435Abstract: A high-mobility artillery cannon system transportable with the cargo envelop of a transport aircraft, includes a lightweight field howitzer, a medium tactical vehicle, and a bed disposable on the vehicle, the bed for receiving and supporting the howitzer such that the vehicle with the howitzer disposed on the bed is receivable within an envelop having substantially the dimensions of the cargo envelop defined within the C-130 type transport aircraft. A method of configuring a cannon system for transport the C-130 type transport aircraft is included.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: United Defense, L.P.Inventors: Richard W. Staiert, Robert B. Stratton
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Patent number: 6742436Abstract: The invention relates to an automatic loading process and system for a large-caliber weapon mounted on a ship and firing ammunition, constituted by charges and projectiles, at a high rate of fire. The system comprises means allowing at least three isolated areas to be defined for the circulation of the ammunition, a first area in which the charges and projectiles and received and introduced into containers and a second area in which these containers are transferred into an intermediate magazine arranged between the weapon and the first area, and a third area where the weapon is actually loaded with the projectiles and charges, all of these areas being isolated from one another by resistant walls defining hatches providing a passage, and it comprises means to transfer the containers from the first area to the turret then the projectiles and charges into the weapon. Application to artillery mounted on a ship.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Giat IndustriesInventors: Gilles Grange, Yves Martinez, Jean-Philippe Delaire, Joël Roche, Claude Avrard
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Patent number: 6742437Abstract: When a booster is inoperative, a first atmosphere valve and a second atmosphere valve are both closed to block a communication of an orifice passage with a variable pressure chamber. At the commencement of operation of the booster, the first atmosphere valve opens while the second atmosphere valve remains closed to allow the atmosphere to be introduced into the variable pressure chamber through the orifice passage, followed by an opening of the second atmosphere valve to allow the atmosphere to be introduced into the variable pressure chamber through the second atmosphere valve and the first atmosphere valve. This arrangement allows the occurrence of oscillations of or abnormal sounds from a valve mechanism to be prevented during the initial phase of the brake operation.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Bosch Automotive Systems CorporationInventor: Nobuyuki Yamashita
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Patent number: 6742438Abstract: An actuator is prevented from an abrupt descent by supplying a high-pressure hydraulic fluid drained upon the descent of the actuator to a path on a supply side of the actuator, provided is a main spool mounted in a path between a hydraulic pump and the actuator and controlling the drive of the actuator, a poppet mounted in a path between the main spool and the actuator and preventing the actuator from the descent, a spool mounted between a back-pressure and a feedback path of the poppet and communicating the back-pressure chamber with a path at an outlet of the main spool upon switching, and a fluid flow-reducing path communicating the back-pressure with the feedback path upon the switching of the spool and reducing hydraulic fluid drained from the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Volvo Construction Equipment Holding Sweden ABInventor: Jin Wook Kim
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Patent number: 6742439Abstract: A variable displacement compressor includes a linking groove, which forms a hinge for connecting an arm and an inclining member. The groove is generally U-shaped (open). A link pin is fitted in the groove such that the link pin can pivot or slide within the groove. As a result, installation of a movable parts assembly, which is done by inserting the link pin into the groove, is easier. A controlled pressure chamber improves the response of the compressor to controls.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignees: Nippon Soken, Inc., Denso CorporationInventors: Mikio Matsuda, Naruhide Kimura, Mitsuo Inagaki, Shigeru Hisanaga
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Patent number: 6742440Abstract: Apparatus, and an accompanying method for use therein, that utilizes working and stopping servo-controlled hydraulic pistons wherein the stopping piston acts as a controlled mechanical stop for the working piston. Both pistons are spaced apart along and coaxially arranged around a common shaft, with each piston moving in a separate cylinder. The working piston is securely attached to the shaft, while the shaft moves through a central, longitudinal bore of the stopping piston. The stopping piston effectively “floats” in its cylinder and produces a greater force than the working piston. A radially extending stop element, situated on the shaft, has a surface configured to abuttingly engage with a complementary surface on the stopping piston such that the stopping piston, once appropriately positioned, controllably stops continued movement of the working piston in a very short time and over a very short distance with little strain induced in the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Dynamic Systems, Inc.Inventors: Hugo S. Ferguson, Wei Chang Chen
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Patent number: 6742441Abstract: Apparatus and method for controlling an unswept volume in a piston system. The method includes rotating a shaft around a rotation point to drive a piston within a cylindrical volume in a periodic manner, modifying the stroke length of the piston, and moving the center of the shaft relative to the cylindrical volume such that a change in an unswept volume or compression ratio is controlled.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Jim B. Surjaatmadja, Stanley V. Stephenson
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Patent number: 6742442Abstract: A coffee maker structure is disclosed. The coffee maker comprises a base seat, a water container and a siphoning tube container. The ends provided on the base seat connect electricity to the heating base seat and a sensing switch to boil water. The siphoning tube container is with a powder isolation pad and contains coffee powder. The siphoning tube passes through to the water container. Steam is passed through the siphoning tube to the siphoning tube container to the coffee powder. The heating base seat generates heat and switches on the sensing switch to cut off the electric power of the base seat. The temperature of the water container is lowered and water is recycled to the water container.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Chang Yue Industrial Corp.Inventor: Yung Sen Su
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Patent number: 6742444Abstract: An electric cooking apparatus, e.g. a deep fryer, is disclosed as including a body, a tank for containing food to be cooked and a control module for controlling the operation of the deep fryer, in which the body, the tank and the control module are releasably engageable with one another, and the tank and control module each includes a respective engagement member which are complementary with and releasably engageable with each other, and the control module is locked against movement from the body when the body, the tank and the control module are engaged with one another. The tank has a bottom surface for supporting the food to be cooked, and when the apparatus is positioned on a horizontal surface, the bottom surface of the tank is inclined relative to the horizontal surface.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Eastern Sources Housewares (Hong Kong) LimitedInventors: Wai Hing Lai, Leung Chi Ho
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Patent number: 6742445Abstract: Enclosed rotisserie including countertop resting box enclosure housing a safety rear mounted heating element and a power rotated dual rod spit assembly. The gear driven spit assembly may be inserted and removed straight into and out of the enclosure. The spit assembly may also be mounted at various distances from the heating element to decrease cooking times. The open front of the enclosure is covered by an inclined glass panel door. Cooking times are decreased and manufacture simplified by the heating element remaining on constantly during the cooking process. Maintenance is minimized by various parts being removable for cleaning including a cleaning shield located behind the heating element, the glass door, and a drip pan with slotted cover. Accessories include wire baskets and a rotating stir fryer. Self-rotating kabob rods allow for increasing rotisserie capacity by increasing the length of rotating rods available for rotisserie food mounting.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Advantage Partners IP, LLCInventors: Alan L. Backus, Ron Popeil
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Patent number: 6742446Abstract: A cooking rack for deep frying which includes a base, such as one formed of a plurality of spoke extensions, and a plurality of prongs extending up from the base. The rack further includes a lifting extension which is supported by the base such as by way of one or more foot extensions extending from a vertical main bar to the base. The lifting extension extends up from the base at a location that is radially spaced from a center of the base and preferably has a grasping loop. An embodiment of the invention features protrusions provided on the prongs for differentiating tipper and lower prong food positions and an additional embodiment features a grill that can be slid down into a resting position on the protrusions and with or essentially with a no horizontal slide (less than an inch horizontal slide capability).Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventors: John D. McLemore, Don McLemore
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Patent number: 6742447Abstract: A disc cutter for a fruit and vegetable juice extractor includes a disc body and a food disintegrating device. The disc body is rotatably mounted in the juice extractor has a top, a center and grinding blades. The grinding blades are radially formed in the top of the disc body for grinding food into juice. The food disintegrating device is attached to the top at the center of the disc body and includes a pointed body having a tapered top and two opposite edges. The tapered top has a central tip and a fluted land defined in the tapered top adjacent one of the edges. Therefore, the rotating pointed body will disintegrate efficiently the inserted food into several large pieces for the grinding blades to grind completely into juice without any food remaining on the pointed body.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Ming-Sung Chen
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Patent number: 6742448Abstract: There is disclosed a baler for paper recycling having a control system responsive to switches and digital timers, and an electromagnetic interlock coupling a loading door and a chamber door, said control system including a programmable relay having outputs to motor starter, control valves, and electromagnetic interlock. A mode selection switch enables automatic, manual down, and manual up modes, the latter of which is used to eject a bale. The electromagnetic interlock performs multiple functions reducing the number of components needed in the system, improving reliability and reducing maintenance.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: J. U. Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventors: James Davis, Gregory W. Staggs
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Patent number: 6742449Abstract: A method and device for marking golf balls that allows for the placement of a putting directional indicator (PDI) along the dynamic axis of a ball. While golfers could use the device to mark individual balls after they have been purchased (i.e. after they already have marks on them from the manufacturer), in preferred embodiments, the PDI is applied at the manufacturing stage and/or before the ball has other markings placed upon it. While the PDI could simply consist of one or more lines, in a preferred embodiment, the putting directional indicator may serve as an identifying mark for a manufacturer, distributor or consumer and may be designed to incorporate letters, words, symbols, short sentences, names, initials, numbers, images and photographs.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Howard Sosin
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Patent number: 6742450Abstract: A stencil printer of the present invention includes a master making section for perforating a master, which includes a porous support and a thermoplastic resin film, in accordance with image data to thereby make a master and wraps the master around a print drum to thereby effect printing. The stencil printer includes a cavity sensor for sensing the condition of cavities existing in the porous support of the stencil. A controller identifies the kind of the stencil by determining the condition of the cavities in accordance with information output from the cavity sensor, so that stable print quality is insured without regard to a difference in cavity ratio between the lots of stencils.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Tohoku Ricoh Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tomiya Mori
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Patent number: 6742451Abstract: A method of controlling the supply of ink in a printing machine wherein the ink is differently guided zonally on an ink-fountain roller transversely to the printing direction, and is transferred by a vibrator roller to a distributor roller, includes metering the ink zonally for counteracting ink transfer disturbances caused by a stroke movement of the distributor roller, so as to minimize the disturbances automatically to at least an effective extent; and a printing machine for performing the method.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2000Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AGInventor: Rudi Junghans
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Patent number: 6742452Abstract: A method for presetting an ink feed in multi-color printing derives presetting values for zonal ink metering devices and for ink metering rollers acting over a printing width from a set value for a weight per unit area of a full tone area, zonal area coverage values and an ink stripe width. For each of a plurality of printing inks, the zonal ink metering devices and the ink metering rollers are preset in dependence of an ink demand for an image to be printed.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AGInventors: Martin Mayer, Nikolaus Pfeiffer
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Patent number: 6742453Abstract: The invention is directed to a method for producing a novel flexographic printing sleeve which is readily axially mountable on and dismountable from a complementary shaped printing cylinder. The subject method comprises providing an apparatus for receiving a sprayed curable polymeric material and for forming the flexographic printing sleeve. Then, the curable polymeric material is sprayed onto the apparatus and a flexographic printing sleeve is formed. The sleeve has a substantially unitary, non-laminated construction which is self-supporting. The cross-sectional inner and outer diameter of the flexographic printing sleeve is expandable by introducing a relatively low pressure fluid between the inner surface of the printing body sleeve and the outer cylindrically-shaped wall of the printing cylinder. The flexographic printing sleeve is contractible from its expanded position by releasing the low pressure fluid.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Mark Alan Borski
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Patent number: 6742454Abstract: A method for modifying an image surface of a printing plate includes identifying a location of a pixel of an image at the image surface, an ink being disposed at the location of the pixel. The ink at the location of the pixel is then irradiated using a laser imaging system. The ink may be cured by the radiation so that it is hardened and useable to receive liquid ink and be used as a printing surface. The ink may be ablated and removed. Individual pixels of the image may be added or removed from the printing surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AGInventor: Robert Richard Murray
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Patent number: 6742455Abstract: A method for holding a sheet material wound around a circumferential surface of a rotating drum and an image recording apparatus are provided. When at least one of a leading edge and a trailing edge of the sheet material, which is fed in a direction tangential to the rotating drum, is nipped between the circumferential surface of the rotating drum and chucks, nipping by the chucks is sequentially effected from one axial-direction end of the rotating drum to the other axial-direction end of the rotating drum.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takashi Fukui
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Patent number: 6742456Abstract: A rapid prototyping system preferably includes a basic component in powder form selected from the group consisting of a metal oxide, and one or more aluminosilicate glasses; an acidic component (polymeric, oligomeric or polymerizable low molecular weight acid or hydrolyzable acidic metal salt); and an aqueous binder capable of stimulating a crosslinking reaction between the basic component and the acidic component to form a three-dimensional printed object.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Vladek Kasperchik, Terry M. Lambright
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Patent number: 6742457Abstract: A transfer press having a plurality of slides, and comprising slide drives being drive sources provided every slide, and a control device for controlling the slide drives to synchronously drive and/or singly drive the slides individually.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventor: Kazuhiko Shiroza
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Patent number: 6742458Abstract: An electrically powered vehicle transportation system utilizes a guideway with parallel enclosed rails. Each enclosed rail has an electrical bus bar for supplying power to vehicles on the guideway. The guideway will accommodate dual-mode vehicles that are capable of usage on conventional streets as well as on the guideway. The guideway also accommodates conventional vehicles and ferries that operate only on the guideway. The dual-mode vehicle has a body with axles that are extensible. The axles move from a retracted position, with the wheels recessed within the wheel wells, to an extended position. In the extended position, the wheels locate within the enclosed rails. Conventional vehicles and freight are carried on ferries that move along the guideways.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: J. Kirston Henderson
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Patent number: 6742459Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a system and method for producing a load of packages supported by a disposable/recyclable pallet. The system may comprise at least one palletizing station for producing a plurality of unwrapped palletized tiers of packages, a horizontal wrapping station for producing at least one horizontally wrapped palletized tier of packages, a stacking station for stacking the unwrapped palletized tiers of packages on the horizontally wrapped palletized tier of packages, and a base applicator for fixedly applying a base to a bottom surface of the horizontally wrapped palletized tier of packages.Type: GrantFiled: December 26, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Coors Global Properties, Inc.Inventor: Philip J. Lucas
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Patent number: 6742460Abstract: A compression molded pallet system which may be used as a single layer pallet or converted into a double layer rackable pallet when desired. The pallet is comprised of highly flame resistant materials which are formed from recycled rubber and plastic materials for benefit to the ecology. A novel reinforcing rib pattern is disclosed. Anti-skid elements are also disclosed as a part of the overall system.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventors: Lyle Meyer, Gerald Edson
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Patent number: 6742461Abstract: An extensible table with its unextended tabletop formed by leaves that are slidably fixed on the supporting frame of the table. The sliding leaves are moved away from each other to reveal a hidden extension leaf that is raised by momentarily applying an initiating downward force. The extension leaf raises itself to the same level as the sliding leaves are to form an extended tabletop. The extension leaf is moved down to its original level by an applied downward force and allows for the sliding leaves to be slid toward each other to form the unextended tabletop. Latching is accomplished by a latching pin. The first end of the latching pin is in a pin housing. This allows the second end of the latching pin to move in the groove of the grooved block. A spring in the pin housing holds the second end of the pin in the grove.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Green Continental Furniture (M) SDN BMDInventor: Lor Lean Sen
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Patent number: 6742463Abstract: An arrangement is disclosed for supplying an air jet form to the furnace of a recovery boiler, where the furnace has a front wall, a rear wall and side walls. Black liquor spraying devices are disposed on the furnace walls at one or several levels of the furnace. A plurality of air ports are located at several horizontal levels for introducing air into the furnace from an air supply. In the arrangement for the secondary air flows, two horizontal air levels at different elevations are arranged above the lower primary levels and below the black liquor sprayer. Secondary air is supplied from two opposite walls and the air ports from each of the two levels are located so that the air jets are introduced in an interlaced pattern having an even number of jets on one opposite wall and an uneven number of jets on the other opposite wall. The air jets of said at least two air levels are located substantially one above each other in substantially vertical rows.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Andritz OyInventors: Kari Saviharju, Jorma Simonen, Liisa Simonen, Esa Vakkilainen, Esko Mattelmäki
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Patent number: 6742464Abstract: An automatic cleaning device for the seed absorbing needles of a vacuum planter includes a rectangular vacuum rack rotatable sliding with a pair of lateral plate and operated by a first pneumatic pump, a seed planting mechanism having a plurality of aligned thru holes for engaging with a plurality of planting pipes under a plurality of tubular needle of the vacuum rack and a sliding plate operated by a second pneumatic pump disposed with the seed planting mechanism. When the first pneumatic pump provides negative air pressure, the tubular needles regularly and repeatedly pick up the seeds from a seed container and drop the seeds down into the planting pipe. When the first pneumatic pump timely provides positive air pressure to clean the needles, the sliding plate operated by a second pneumatic pump will close the planting pipe to prevent the filth or dirt from the air from contaminating the tubular needles.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1999Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Te-Wang Chiu
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Patent number: 6742465Abstract: A planter apparatus includes a seed meter including a housing assembly with a cover releasably connected to a shell. The housing assembly includes at least one opening formed therein adjacent a seed discharge area to promote the release of seeds from a disc rotatably attached to the housing assembly. The disc divides an interior of the housing assembly to include a vacuum chamber and a seed chamber. The disc including a plurality of openings formed adjacent a periphery of the disc. The planter apparatus may also include a singulator assembly having rotatably spools, a rotatable chute door, a disc having clusters of openings for simultaneous release, and a one-piece baffle.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: CNH America LLCInventors: Richard J. Crabb, Guntis Ozers, David N. Slowinski, Chad M. Johnson, Donald Johnson, Lisle J. Dunham, John F. Stufflebeam, Thomas A. Olson, Stephen D. Berry, Thomas Brown, Gerald J. Tiedt
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Patent number: 6742466Abstract: A sewing machine with needle threading device is disclosed, wherein the thread passed through the needle eye of a needle of the sewing machine by operation of a threading hook may be released from the threading hook during a process of the threading hook moving up to the upper initial position after the threading operation is finished.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Janome Sewing Machine Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yasuro Sano, Eiji Murakami
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Patent number: 6742467Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for controlling feed quantity and direction in a sewing machine, in which feed quantity and direction of a workpiece is controlled by a motor, thereby not only allowing various patterns to be produced by stitches made up of upper and lower threads, but also allowing a speedy sewing operation. The apparatus comprises an operator interface means for inputting the feed quantity and direction of a workpiece according to an operator's plan, a motor driving control means for outputting a motor driving control signal according to feed information on the feed quantity and direction of the workpiece inputted through the operator interface means, and a workpiece feed control means for controlling rotation direction and speed of the motor according to the motor driving control signal from the motor driving control means.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Sunstar Machinery Co., Ltd.Inventor: Byoung Min Kong
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Patent number: 6742468Abstract: Aquatic apparatus formed by a support with a fixed tube positioned thereon and having an open end; a movable tube encircles the fixed tube is sealed thereto, and has a pivoted end cap beyond the position of the seal and at least one vent below the position of the seal; the end cap is controlled and pressurized fluid is applied to the fixed tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Peter Mele
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Patent number: 6742469Abstract: A device for, and method of, handling and mounting a boat sundeck. The device includes a platform having first and second ends. A clamp structure is connected to the first end of the platform such that the clamp structure can be used to hold and move the sundeck of a boat. In addition, control modules are connected to the second end of the platform to aid in manipulation of the sundeck by the device. A lift connection location is positioned between the first and second ends of the platform and allows the device to be connected to an articulated boom.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Larson/Glastron Boats, Inc.Inventors: Kevin John Kapsner, Gregory Herman Rohr
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Patent number: 6742470Abstract: A bird-deterring apparatus for protecting agricultural crops and other areas from marauding birds and/or other pests comprises one or more supports for holding a wire or other elongated member in a taut condition over the area being protected. Preferably, the support system comprises at least two nominally upright support columns in a spaced apart relationship spanning the area to be protected and a predetermined number of wires tautly secured between these columns. Noise-making containers including, in the preferred embodiment, metal pellets and glass shards are flexible suspended from the taut wires at selected intervals. A system for moving the taut wires preferably in a sudden manner to shake or rattle noise-making containers is provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Douglas Keithly
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Patent number: 6742471Abstract: The installation comprises a drive incorporating a guy rope provided at each end with a swivel joint, a driven rotating element and a pair of driving pulleys, all secured to the guy rope. A pair of driven pulleys is opposed to the pair of driving pulleys. A pair of endless cables is tensioned between the driving and driven pulleys and each endless cable has an upper and lower paths. A pair of stretched guide ropes, essentially parallel to the pair of endless cables is used. Each one of the stretched guide ropes is perpendicularly disposed to the stretched drive guy rope and extends from the ends of the latter. At least a pair of carrying lines is perpendicularly disposed with respect to the pair of stretched guide ropes. An actuating assembly including a reversible electric motor is used.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Walter A. Laidler
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Patent number: 6742472Abstract: A pressure measurement method using a pressure measuring film in which a toner layer with a definite thickness is held between an adhesive layer formed on a first support and an inactive adhesive layer formed on a second support. Prior to applying the pressure to be measured to the measuring film, the inactive adhesive layer is activated to have an adhesive property. After pressure to be measured is applied to the film, the first support is removed and the applied pressure is determined based on the amount of toner attached to the second support. Using a toner having extremely small size, an extremely low pressure applied to an extremely small contact area can be measured. Also the pressure measuring film is not affected by use conditions (temperature, humidity). The inactive adhesive layer may be formed of a thermoplastic resin adhesive which can be activated by heating to become adhesive.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2000Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masao Shigyo
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Patent number: 6742473Abstract: A machine for coating granular articles and the like includes a rotating drum or a coating pan (1), which receives a predetermined mass of articles to be treated. The machine includes also a tubular manifold (4), whose axis is parallel to the axis of said coating pan (1) and which communicates with an outer first pipe (5). A plurality of perforated hollow bodies (14) extend from said manifold (4) and are dipped into the moving mass of the articles to be treated. A second pipe (6) communicates with the coating pan (1), so as to create a flow of air for ventilating the articles. The perforated hollow bodies (14) are telescopic, so as to allow adjustment of their length in order to change the depth of penetration thereof in the moving mass of the articles inside the coating pan (1). The perforated hollow bodies (14) have a distal part (14b), which is inclined with respect to the hollow body vertical axis and whose cross-section is oblong with pointed ends.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: G.S. S.r.l. Coating SystemInventors: Antonio Giogoli, Angelo Scipioni
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Patent number: 6742474Abstract: A system for automatically milking animals is provided with a milking robot and a computer which is capable of being connected to a plurality of measuring instruments for a plurality of functions of the system and physiological conditions of the animals being milked. Monitoring programs for the functions and conditions are installed in a computer which, based on comparison reference data, determines that one or more components of the system is likely to fail or otherwise malfunction and reports on abnormal physiological conditions of animals being milked by the system. As a result of the computer determinations, diagnoses of the likelihood of failure or other malfunction of one or more of the system's components, and of abnormal conditions of the animals being milked, are transmitted to interested parties including a user and a service mechanic together with the appropriate actions to be taken.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Lely Enterprises A.G. A Swiss Limited Liability Co.Inventors: Karel van den Berg, Alexander van der Lely, Renatus Ignatius Josephus Fransen, Wilhelmus Johannes Adrianus van Lier
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Patent number: 6742475Abstract: A variable shut off teat cup liner has a mouthpiece, a barrel and a short milk tube adapted for mounting onto milking claw. The short milk tube includes a segment for engagement with an edge of a claw nipple defining an opening, the segment being intended for bending over the opening to substantially close it to passage of vacuum-drawn air therethrough when the teat cup liner is in a non-milking generally downwardly bending position. The segment has circumferentially extending grooves and longitudinally extending grooves which form lugs which provide improved cut resistance. The circumferentially extending grooves have different axial spacing whereby the amount of overlap of the short milk tube over the nipple may be varied to provide the proper amount of bending.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: DeLaval Holding ABInventors: Rick McLeod, James C. Fredericks
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Patent number: 6742476Abstract: A litter box having a first litter box half with a first recess. The first litter box half triangularly shaped. The litter box having a second litter box half with a second recess. The second litter box half engages with the first litter box half to form an enclosure. The first recess aligning with the second recess when the first litter box half and second litter box half are engaged to form an entrance to the enclosure through which an animal can enter the enclosure. The second litter box half triangularly shaped, and with the first litter box half to fit into corners. The litter box having a screen which fits into either the first litter box half or the second litter box half. The screen having handles so the screen can be lifted from either the first litter box half or the second litter box half.Type: GrantFiled: May 8, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: James R. Sage, Jr.
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Patent number: 6742477Abstract: A decorative background assembly for an aquarium, having a plurality of interchangeable illustrated display panels, for enhancing the appearance of the aquarium. The assembly has a waterproof housing which encloses a frame which selectively holds one of the display panels. The housing also encloses a fluorescent light fixture and an angled mirror in proximity to the light fixture. The housing has hooks for selective attachment of the decorative background assembly to the rear wall of the aquarium. The fluorescent light fixture and the mirror are mounted in proximity to the lower portion of the housing. In use, a user chooses one of the illustrated display panels for insertion into the frame. The user then selectively attaches the decorative background assembly to the rear wall of the aquarium by fitting the hooks over the rear wall of the aquarium. The fluorescent light is then illuminated, thereby illuminating the display panel with light reflected by the angled mirror.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2003Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Robert Marraudino
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Patent number: 6742478Abstract: An animal bedding material that includes a layer of substantially dry ground drywall and a layer of a substantially absorbent litter material. The ground drywall layer has a concentration of greater than 10 g/ft2 and includes ground gypsum and ground paper backing. The ground drywall constituent of the bedding material helps control odor, acts as a moisture barrier, and provides a “lift” to the waste saturated litter material, which reduces compaction and extends the useful life of the bedding material.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Union Gypsum, Inc.Inventor: James Stephen Davis
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Patent number: 6742479Abstract: Damaging of a high-pressure fuel pump is prevented by driving the high-pressure fuel pump when interior lubrication of the high-pressure fuel pump is ensured.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Isuzu Motors LimitedInventor: Naoki Yanagisawa
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Patent number: 6742480Abstract: In a heat storage tank, a discharge port of an introduction passage is covered by a cup-shaped collision member constructed by a shield portion and a guide cover. In addition, a mixture protection plate having plural through holes is disposed in a tank body between the collision member and an inner surface of the tank body. Therefore, a high-speed water stream, upwardly injected from the discharge port, collides with the shield portion, and turns its flow direction by an approximately right angle. Thereafter, the water stream is guided by the guide cover to a lower side of the mixture protection plate. Accordingly, it can prevent water stored in the tank body from being mixed even when the injection water stream has a high speed.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignees: Nippon Soken, Inc., Denso CorporationInventors: Sadahisa Onimaru, Toshio Morikawa, Koichi Ban, Takashi Toyoshima
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Patent number: 6742481Abstract: In a preferred embodiment, a windage tray assembly is mounted to crankshaft bearing caps which connect with oil passages in the windage tray. The passages carry the oil through nozzles directed toward the interior of associated pistons. The arrangement utilizes the windage tray and bearing caps as carriers for piston cooling oil obtained from the bearing caps, which are already supplied with oil for lubricating the bearings. Thus, modifications of an engine design to install a piston cooling system are limited to redesign of the windage tray to a sandwich-like assembly and modification of the bearing caps to conduct oil from the bearings to the windage tray passages. To limit oil pumping energy, oil distribution holes in the bearing caps connect intermittently with crankshaft journal feed passages so the oil is distributed in individually timed streams or sprays directed toward the pistons for a short interval once every revolution of the engine crankshaft.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Steven R. Baldwin
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Patent number: 6742482Abstract: A two-cycle engine having improved performance characteristics includes a block and a cylinder head coupled to the block, the cylinder head defining a cylinder bore and a precombustion chamber. The head of piston located in the cylinder bore divides the bore into first and second variable volume intake chambers. An intake port allows fresh air to be drawn into the variable volume intake chamber and be compressed by the moving piston and delivered to the precombustion chamber. Fuel is added to the compressed air, which is heated, and then delivered to the variable volume combustion chamber. In one embodiment, the piston drives a crankshaft which is mounted both for rotation and for translation. Another embodiment of the invention is a lubricating system for a piston where movement of the piston up and down generates a pumping effect moving lubricant through the piston for lubricating piston rings.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Inventor: Jorge Artola
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Patent number: 6742483Abstract: An output from each of output rods is converted into an assisting force via a corresponding one of rollers, while an outer peripheral surface of each of the rollers moving together with a control shaft serves as a conversion plane. This output is applied to the control shaft. Hence, as the control shaft is moved in such a direction as to increase valve lift amounts of intake valves, the assisting force can be correspondingly increased. Thus, a suitable assisting force that can act against a thrust force can be applied to the control shaft. As a result, there is no apprehension that a minimum hydraulic fluid pressure will not be ensured on the side of a larger valve lift amount or that responding properties in movements of the control shaft will deteriorate.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Ken Asakura
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Patent number: 6742484Abstract: At least one locking device between an interior part and cellular wheel, which is equipped with a movable locking element that acts together with at least one counter-element in a respectively other component of the two components cellular wheel or interior part, causes the interior part to be able to be locked relative to the cellular wheel in at least one final position. The locking and/or unlocking process of the locking element occurs through at least one oil duct that leads to the locking element. Between two pressure chambers in or on the cellular wheel an opening connected with the oil duct is arranged, whose passage to the two pressure chambers is controlled in dependence on the adjusting position of the interior part. This way, the cam shaft adjusting unit can be locked safely.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2001Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignees: Ing. h.c.F. Porsche AG, Hydraulik Ring GmbH, AutomobiltechnikInventors: Gerold Sluka, Edwin Palesch, Andreas Knecht, Wolfgang Stephan
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Patent number: 6742485Abstract: A vane-type cam phaser wherein a locking pin assembly is disposed between a rotor and a stator of the phaser to selectively couple the rotor and stator together under certain operating conditions, for example, during engine start-up. The central axis of the locking pin assembly is disposed in the rotor parallel to the rotational axis of the phaser. The pin is spring loaded in a default position and is guided through its axial movement by two cylindrical guide surfaces—an inner guide surface and an outer guide surface. The lengths of these guide surfaces are optimized to minimize binding and sluggish operation of the pin caused by lateral forces exerted on the pin by the stator when in operation. The outer guide surface to inner guide surface ratio (L/I) is preferably greater than 2.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2002Date of Patent: June 1, 2004Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Thomas H. Lichti