Patents Issued in June 24, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040118888
    Abstract: A holder for a helmet including a seat strap that is attachable to a motorcycle seat; and a top piece having a central portion for placement over a motorcycle helmet. Two seat clips may be used to enable attachment of the seat strap to a motorcycle seat. Two tri-slides enable attachment of the top piece to the seat strap by means of top straps located on the sides of the central portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Larry D. Russell
  • Publication number: 20040118889
    Abstract: An automated motorcycle saddlebag including a storage tub for stowing items on the motorcycle. A lid is pivotally connected to the storage tub for covering the interior storage space of the storage tub. A powered lid actuator is carried by the storage tub for pivoting the lid between a closed condition covering the storage tub and an open condition allowing access to the storage tub. An elongated actuator arm of the lid actuator interconnects the lid actuator with the lid. A drive unit is connected with the actuator arm for reciprocating the arm to open and close the lid. A control unit is in communication with the drive unit for controlling power to the drive unit. A remote switch is in communication with the control unit for signaling the control unit to deliver power to the drive unit to operate the lid actuator to open and close the lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: William R. Hamilton
  • Publication number: 20040118890
    Abstract: A double decker article carrier for mounting to a receiver assembly includes a frame having a pair of mounting bars for securing the frame to the receiver assembly and a pair of support members. A first platform is carried by the mounting bars and a second platform is carried by the support members. The platforms are carried in an aligned, stacked configuration with one over the other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Katherine A. Adams, Jason R. Moldthan, Richard W. McCoy
  • Publication number: 20040118891
    Abstract: A specialized backpack including a backpack body with a storage compartment having an openable region and a back panel including a headgear mounting flap with a cuff forming an opening through which a dome a hard-shell head gear with a rim may be passed through to retain the rim against the back panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Adrian Esqueda
  • Publication number: 20040118892
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling the strain of a web material supplied to a machine by adjusting a tension force applied to the web material. An operator defines a target web strain via an input device. A speed sensor senses the speed of the web material supplied to the machine at a first position and a second position and generates a speed signal representative of the difference. A tension sensor senses a tension force applied to the web prior to the first position and after the first position and generates a tension signal representative of the difference. A control system calculates web strain as a function of the tension signal and speed signal, and compares the calculated strain with the target web strain and generates a speed control signal as a function of the comparison. The feed device is responsive to the speed control signal for adjusting a speed differential of the web to adjust tension force applied to the web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul A. Weber, Thomas Arthur Bett, Tanakon Ungpiyakul
  • Publication number: 20040118893
    Abstract: A transfer device, which is usable for inserting a web into a web processing machine, includes at least one transport chain that is displaceable in a guide element. At least one driving device engages the transport chain while it is in the guide element. The guide element has at least one section, which is adjacent the driving device, that can be moved or displaced in a lateral direction in relation to the direction of transport. Each point of this section is displaceable in a direction of movement away from the driving device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Martin Richard Keller, Erwin Paul Josef Lehrieder
  • Publication number: 20040118894
    Abstract: A godet for guiding at least one advancing yarn in a yarn processing operation. The godet comprises a tubular casing which is mounted for free rotation on a support by means of a plurality of bearings. At least one of the bearings is a radially operative magnetic bearing, which comprises a rotating part and a stationary part attached to the support, with a bearing gap formed between the parts. The stationary part includes at least one pole element with an excitation winding, and the rotating part is made of at least one laminated component of a magnetizable material which is fixed on the inner side of the tubular casing. The pole element and the laminated component cooperate for guiding a magnetic flux.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: Barmag AG
    Inventors: Thomas Koch, Heiner Kudrus
  • Publication number: 20040118895
    Abstract: A stapler apparatus of the type using continuous belt-formed staples 200 includes a staple feed claw 25 for advancing the staples 200 sequentially to a stapling position 103, and a drive means 50 for driving the staples 200 drawn to the stapling position 103. A clincher means 40 bends the ends of the staples 200 driven into the sheets and pivots a staple feed pawl 25 interlocked to the staple bending operation of the clincher means 40 for sequentially feeding the staples 200 to the stapling position 103. This construction lightens the load on the drive means to staple sheet stacks, facilitates smooth driving operation of the drive means, and reduces the occurrences of trouble.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Naoto Mochizuki, Toshiro Fukasawa
  • Publication number: 20040118896
    Abstract: A full thickness resection device comprises a control handle including an actuator wherein, when the device is in an operative position within a body lumen of a patient, the control handle remains outside the patient's body and a working head assembly coupled to a control handle by a flexible sheath, wherein, when the device is in the operative position; the working head assembly is located within a body lumen of the patient adjacent to a portion of tissue to be treated, the working head assembly including a tissue stapling mechanism including first and second tissue stapling members moveable relative to one another in combination with a first cable extending from the actuator through the flexible sheath to the first tissue stapling member so that, when the actuator is operated to draw the first cable proximally from the sheath, the first tissue stapling member is moved in a first direction relative to the second tissue stapling member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Satish K. Sharma, David I. Freed, Nicholas Patronik, Jeffrey M. Wendlandt
  • Publication number: 20040118897
    Abstract: A robotic positioner for use with an automated processing system, such as an automated welding system, for example, includes a base, a support structure rotatably supported on the base, and at least one work surface supported on the support structure suitable for supportably engaging a workpiece. The support structure extends from the base at an angle relative to vertical, and the work surface extends at an angle relative to the support structure. In operation, a workpiece is secured onto a work surface while in a generally horizontal load/unload position. The support structure and work surface thereon is then rotated into an inclined work position relative to horizontal that is adjacent the automated processing system. Thereafter, the work surface is rotated with the support structure back to the generally horizontal load/unload position so that the workpiece can be removed and another loaded.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: Lincoln Global, Inc.
    Inventors: Andrew C. Caldarone, Dennis A. Quinn
  • Publication number: 20040118898
    Abstract: This invention relates to a method of spatially integrating multiple pipeline datasets. The method involves weld matching multiple inline inspection datasets by selecting one dataset as master and designated the other datasets as slaves, then spatially slaving the weld positions in the slaves to the weld positions in the master. After the weld matching process is completed, the method repositions the other data in the slave datasets relative to the master datasets, and which itself was previously spatially fit against a centreline model.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Bruce Robin Dupuis, Michael John Webb
  • Publication number: 20040118899
    Abstract: There is provided a method capable of decreasing a friction force in friction stir welding, in which a welding tool is used. In a method of friction stir welding workpieces together by rotating and pressingly plugging a welding tool, formed from a harder material than the workpieces, into a weld zone of the workpieces and moving the welding tool relatively in a welding direction, a power supply device allows a current to flow between the welding tool 1 and the workpieces to cause resistance heating of the welding tool. Combined use of resistance heating makes it possible to decrease a friction force. Preferably, a conductive ceramic is coated on surfaces of the welding tool to cause resistance heating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Kinya Aota, Hisanori Okamura, Kouji Sato
  • Publication number: 20040118900
    Abstract: A friction stir rivet is rotated in a precessing motion and driven through a first fusible workpiece into an engaged second fusible workpiece, causing local portions of the first and second workpieces to plasticize. When the rivet is driven through the first workpiece and into the second workpiece, rotation is stopped and the plasticized material solidifies around the rivet creating an enlarged weld joining the metal workpiece and encompassing the rivet, which provides additional mechanical strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Robin Stevenson, Pei-Chung Wang
  • Publication number: 20040118901
    Abstract: An ultrasonic rotary horn is repaired by removal of deteriorated metal condition from the horn energy transfer surface, and application and consolidation of metal powder to the horn radial surface. An ultrasonic rotary horn having a repaired radial energy transfer surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Norman R. Stegelmann
  • Publication number: 20040118902
    Abstract: A method is provided for forming a feature on a needle. In particular, a hollow, metal cannula has a first end, a second end and a substantially constant outer diameter extending over at least a portion of its length. An annular metal sleeve is provided that has a proximal shoulder and a distal shoulder. The length of the annular sleeve is less than the length of the constant diameter portion of the cannula. The sleeve has an inner diameter approximately equal to or less than the outer diameter of the constant diameter portion of the cannula. Two edges extend axially along the length of the sleeve, from the proximal shoulder to the distal shoulder, thereby defining a slit. The sleeve is positioned on the cannula at the constant outer diameter portion in an interference fit. An additional mechanical junction may be provided to secure the sleeve to the cannula.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Chad Michael Adams
  • Publication number: 20040118903
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a fan blade (10) comprises forming three metal workpieces (30,32,34). Each metal workpiece (30,32, 34) has a flat surface (38,42,46,48) and is larger than a predetermined size (X) to form excess portions (62,64,66). The predetermined size (X) is required to produce the finished fan blade (10). The excess portions (62,64,66) are located outside the finished fan blade (10). Longitudinally extending slots (68) are formed to interconnect the flat surfaces (46,48) of the excess portions (66). The metal workpieces (30,32,34) are assembled into a stack (36) so that the flat surfaces (38,42,46,48) are in mating abutment. The stack (36) is evacuated from one longitudinal end of the stack (36) such that the slots (68) enable gases at an opposite end of the stack (36) to be removed from the stack (36). Heat and pressure is applied across the thickness of the metal workpieces (30,32,34) to diffusion bond the metal workpieces (30,32,34) together to form an integral structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2001
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Brian Richardson, Michael Green
  • Publication number: 20040118904
    Abstract: A container for protectively encapsulating a product, such as a perishable food product, during shipment and display. The container includes a tubular body constructed of a composite sheet material and defining a receptacle for receiving the food product. An outer surface of the body defines an edge surrounding an entrance of the receptacle. An end closure abuts the edge of the tubular body so as to extend over the entrance. Extending over the end closure and the outer surface of the body is a film sleeve that serves to secure the end closure to the body. An adhesive can be used to seal the film sleeve to the end closure and body so as to hermetically seal a juncture between the end closure and the body. A score line on the film sleeve facilitates opening of the container while extending only partially through the film sleeve to preserve its barrier properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: Sonoco Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Thor Versluys
  • Publication number: 20040118905
    Abstract: An apparatus for discretely and securely sending and receiving messages on post cards includes a generally flat planar post card message cover having an inner face and an outer face and including a generally rectangular generally opaque cover plate sized to fit onto and cover one side of a post card. At least one adhesive strip is mounted on the inner face of the post card message cover for securely attaching the post card message cover to the post card in generally parallel contact therewith. A generally opaque message revealing panel section of the post card message cover is operative to removably cover a message printed on the post card, the message revealing panel section being movable between a message covering position releasably connected and aligned generally coplanar with the post card message cover and a message revealing position permitting viewing of a message printed on the post card.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Jason M. Luetkenhaus
  • Publication number: 20040118906
    Abstract: A packaging member forming an enclosed region for securing an article therein includes a first and a second preformed rigid member. The first and the second member have two legs forming an L-shaped cross section along their length. A flexible layer hingedly connects one leg of the first member to one leg of the second member. Rotating the first member with respect to the second member about an axis along the flexible layer until the other leg of the first member contacts the other leg of the second member forms the enclosed region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher M. Gustin
  • Publication number: 20040118907
    Abstract: A system and method are set out for automating the sorting and loading of parcels into a delivery vehicle. While being conveyed from a customer, parcels to be delivered are scanned and information obtained therefrom. The information may be the parcel either or both the identification code and delivery address. The obtaining may be performed by a bar code reader, hand held or overhead, as well as a videocoding device. The parcel information is matched to a sort code, a unique code for a unique delivery address. A list of matched identification and sort codes and delivery addresses and sort codes is then saved for later search, sort, and retrieval. The parcels are then loaded in sequence into mobile racks, which when full, is loaded onto the delivery vehicle. A sequence list of the order in which the parcels were scanned is also saved for later search, sort, and retrieval. An end user enters a select list of addresses in search of possible hits from the saved lists.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Walter Rosenbaum, Ingolf Rauh
  • Publication number: 20040118908
    Abstract: A form processing system makes it easier to handle forms generated in conjunction with product sales and thereby improves overall productivity. This form processing system processes forms generated in conjunction with product sales using a form printer 4 as a form printing unit for printing forms using a form format suitable to the product purchased by a customer and specific form configuration data that is added to the form format. A receipt generator 5 used as a form reading unit then reads a completed form and generates form image data from the completed form. The completed form is a form that was printed by the form printer and then had additional information relating to the product sale recorded on the form. A form management database 20 used as a form image storage unit then stores the form image data generated by the receipt generator 5. The productivity of forms processing and management is thus improved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Munehiro Ando, Tadashi Igarashi
  • Publication number: 20040118909
    Abstract: An improved process for clearing bank checks. Paper bank checks are digitized, and the paper checks are placed into storage. The digitized versions are used in the check-clearing process. When paper versions of the checks are required, as when a check is needed for evidence in a lawsuit, a paper version is printed from the corresponding digitized version, each paper version bearing a unique serial number, wherein no two serial numbers are alike. At that time, selected data from the printed check is stored in a database. A recipient of the printed check is allowed access to the database, to verify authenticity of the printed check.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Fredrik L.N. Kallin
  • Publication number: 20040118910
    Abstract: A self-service terminal includes a fascia having a document slot, and a document processing module. The document processing module includes a document path selector mechanism disposed along a bi-directional document transport path which extends between the document slot and a document processing zone. The document path selector mechanism enables a document to be transported along the document transport path between the document slot and the document processing zone when parts of the document path selector mechanism are in a first position. The document path selector mechanism enables a document to be transported along a divert path extending from the document processing zone to a location other than the document slot when parts of the document path selector mechanism are in a second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Dale Edward Gallo-Hendrikx
  • Publication number: 20040118911
    Abstract: A self-service terminal (10) that is adapted to: receive a text message, in particular an SMS message, from a mobile telecommunications device (36); interpret the received text message, and provide information or a service in response to the received text message. Preferably, the information is printed out and the print out is provided to the customer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: NCR Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan S. Black, Martin R. Smith, Neil A. Strachan
  • Publication number: 20040118912
    Abstract: An electronic card capable of changing communication functionality of a coupled electronic device is disclosed. A removable interface has at least a card detection pin which is set at a first state or a second state based on the coupled electronic device. A functional module provides a communication functionality via an access bus or a specific application bus based on whether the card detection pin is at the first state or the second state. A bridge is provided for bridging and converting signals of the interface bus on the removable interface into signals of the access bus or the specific application bus, or vice versa. A multiplexer device selects signals of the access bus or signals of the specific application bus based on whether the card detection pin is at the first state or the second state for being switched to the interface bus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicants: C-One Technology Corporation, Pretec Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Shih Chieh Cheng, Jui Chung Chen, Sidney Young
  • Publication number: 20040118913
    Abstract: An authorization code is entered into a chip card terminal from a chip card. The authorization code is first entered into a chip card and stored in a secret memory location. A state on the chip card is temporarily changed from a first state to a second state. When the chip card is inserted into a chip card terminal within a pre-defined period of time, the authorization code is transmitted to the chip card terminal and the state is reset from the second state to the first state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Volker Boettiger
  • Publication number: 20040118914
    Abstract: A system and method for supplying communication service value is disclosed. In one embodiment, the method includes distributing indicia of an identifier to a merchant for distribution to a customer having a customer account. The identifier has an associated service value that is redeemable with a plurality of carriers. The method further includes activating the identifier upon distribution of the indicia to the customer. A central processor may verify whether the merchant is authorized to distribute the indicia to the customer. During distribution to the customer, the merchant may transmit prior transaction information to the central processor, and the central processor may reconcile past billing records based on such prior transaction information. The method also includes receiving a request from the customer to add the associated service value to the customer account and adding the associated service value to the customer account is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: e2interactive, Inc. d/b/a e2Interactive, Inc.
    Inventors: Merrill Brooks Smith, Phillip Craig Graves, Jonathan O'Neal
  • Publication number: 20040118915
    Abstract: A limited electronic system and method are provided for automatically shutting down equipment when an account associated with purchased or leased equipment falls into arrears. The system includes a control center (connected to a machine) with a screen display, means for entering a code, and a controller. The controller has a disabling program that shuts down the machine after a predetermined interval, such as time. Because the program automates the shut-down when no (timed) interval is in place, the user must obtain a “re-set code” from a non-user—i.e., the financing entity, the equipment supplier, the account manager, or other entity—and enter it into the system to set the next interval so the machine remains operational. The re-set code is generated by the machine. The non-user at a location remote from the machine receives or generates parallel re-set codes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Robert Daniel, Joel Zupancic, Kenneth Falk, Joseph Abreu, Jason Coe
  • Publication number: 20040118916
    Abstract: An RFID reader and imaging system is provided having a device for imaging an object associated with a tag whose RFID code is read by an RFID reader. The imaging device generates image data associated with the imaged object. The system further includes a database storing RFID codes associated with a plurality of objects and complete or extracted image data associated with each stored RFID code. Verification software executable on at least one processor of the system is provided for verifying whether the RFID code presented to be read and processed by the RFID reader and imaging system corresponds to the imaged object. The process of verification is performed by comparing the acquired image data or other data associated with the imaged object with the stored image data or other stored data corresponding with the RFID code read. If the acquired image data or other data substantially matches the stored image data or other stored data, then the system verifies that the appropriate RFID code was read.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Duanfeng He
  • Publication number: 20040118917
    Abstract: A reading head furnished by an electromechanical device comprising a series of contact points which are activated by way of pressure provided by a material-base and its elasticity achieving a connection between this one and a surface, establishing signal or energy electronic transference.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Danis Sangois
  • Publication number: 20040118918
    Abstract: Several optical systems for imaging engines of imaging optical code readers are disclosed. Each optical system includes the abilities to change the depth of field of the imaging field and to adjust a focus quality of the imaging field. The disclosed structures for changing the depth of field of the disclosed optical systems allow for the automatic or manual selection of one of a plurality of depths of field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Paul Dvorkis, Alex Breytman, Mark Krichever, Brad Carlson, Tsi David Shi
  • Publication number: 20040118919
    Abstract: An image scanning device is provided which includes a system for determining the distance to a target to be scanned. The image scanning device includes an optical system and an image sensor array for focusing a light beam and imaging the target. The device preferably includes an automatic focusing system for adjusting the position of the optical system in order to adjust the focal point, and thereby focus the image of the target onto the image sensor array. In one embodiment of the image scanning device, the distance is determined by analyzing a collimated aiming pattern formed by collimating the light beam. In another embodiment, the distance is determined by analyzing a speckle pattern caused by the speckle effect upon the light beam hitting the target.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Alex Breytman, Mark Krichever, Brad Carlson, Tsi David Shi
  • Publication number: 20040118920
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for sensing an image of an object and an optical code associated with the object and generating respective object image data and optical code image data. A database stores a plurality of digital codes and an object image data entry associated with each respective digital code of the plurality of digital codes. A processing unit generates at least one digital code; accesses at least one object image data entry associated with at least one respective stored digital code that substantially matches the respective at least one generated digital code; and compares the object image data with the at least one accessed object image data entry and determines if the comparison results are within a predetermined image recognition certainty threshold.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Duanfeng He
  • Publication number: 20040118921
    Abstract: Actuator systems are provided for automatically focusing an optical image reader. Techniques are also provided which are applicable to the design of imaging engines and imaging lens systems associated with image readers of various types. More specifically, the present invention relates to lens guidance assemblies and actuator systems for automatically focusing an objective lens associated with an imaging system of an optical image reader. The optical image reader is preferably an optical code image reader for imaging optical codes, such as bar codes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Alex Breytman, Mark Krichever
  • Publication number: 20040118922
    Abstract: A device for reading out an optical code includes a camera, an image memory for storing images taken by this camera, and an image processor for decoding an optical code contained in an image taken by the camera. A plurality of images are obtained continuously with the camera under specified image-taking conditions in response to a specified image-taking command, and the obtained images are stored on the image memory. The images stored in the image memory are sequentially selected one at a time in a specified order, and the image processor makes an attempt to decode an optical code contained in the selected image. Results of decoding are outputted if the attempt to decode any of the stored images is successful, and no attempt is made to decode the remaining images.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: OMRON Corporation
    Inventors: Takuya Murata, Katsuki Nakajima, Gaku Shiramizu
  • Publication number: 20040118923
    Abstract: A method of automatically providing information from a portable computing device to a bar code reader can include, within the portable computing device, automatically detecting a scan from the bar code reader. Responsive to the automatic detection of the scan, one or more segments of a visual image can be presented on a display screen of the portable computing device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas E. Creamer, Victor S. Moore, Wendi L. Nusbickel, Scott L. Winters
  • Publication number: 20040118924
    Abstract: Curved reflecting surfaces on a rotary scan component produce an aiming spot of enhanced visibility during a single scan line mode of operation for an electro-optical reader capable of reading bar code symbols in a multiple scan line mode of operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Vladimir Gurevich, Daniel Gonzalez, Mark Krichever, Edward Barkan
  • Publication number: 20040118925
    Abstract: A universal interface driver application specific integrated circuit (UIDA) for a data reading device which supports multiple host interface configurations through the use of shared communications lines. In one application, the UIDA is a 32 or 44-pin TQFP chip located in a bar code scanner, or other data reader, connected to a host processing device such as a computer terminal. The scanner reads and decodes bar codes, transmitting the information to the host processing device through an interconnect cable using a host specific input/output interface protocol. The UIDA contains circuitry to support numerous different host interface protocols, such as RS-232C, IBM46XX, or Keyboard Wedge interface, in order to allow a single data reader to operate with a wide variety of host processing devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: PSC Scanning, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian M. Kelly, Jeffrey T. Robson, Rockie D. Moch, Rick Wright, Thomas E. Tamburrini
  • Publication number: 20040118926
    Abstract: An optical code reader is provided including imaging circuitry having an array of photo sensing devices capable of sensing light incident on the array and outputting a plurality of pixel signals corresponding to the sensed light. The reader further includes control and logic circuitry for receiving a subset of the plurality of pixel signals, processing the received subset of the plurality of pixel signals for determining if the received pixel signals meet at least one predetermined condition, and outputting a selection control signal in accordance with the processing results. A focus analysis software module executable by the control and logic circuitry determines the focus quality of the received pixel signals. A selector control software module executable by the control and logic circuitry generates a selection control signal in accordance with the determined focus quality of the received pixel signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Dmitriy Yavid, Alex Breytman, Bradley S. Carlson, Mark Krichever, Mehul Patel, Edward Hatton, Paul Dvorkis, Thomas D. Bianculli
  • Publication number: 20040118927
    Abstract: Actuator systems are provided for automatically focusing an optical image reader. Techniques are also provided which are applicable to the design of imaging engines and imaging lens systems associated with image readers of various types. More specifically, the present invention relates to lens guidance assemblies and actuator systems for automatically focusing an objective lens associated with an imaging system of an optical image reader. The optical image reader is preferably an optical code image reader for imaging optical codes, such as bar codes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Alex Breytman, Mark Krichever, Bradley S. Carlson, David Tsi Shi
  • Publication number: 20040118928
    Abstract: A system and method for imaging an optical code is provided including the steps of consecutively imaging an optical code respectively using at least a first and a second imaging setting; generating at least first and second sets of image data respectively corresponding to the first and second imaging settings; evaluating at least one of the first and second sets of image data; and selecting at least one of the first and second sets of image data in accordance with the evaluation. The system includes an imaging engine having a lens assembly and a photo sensor array for consecutively imaging an optical code located in a field of view of the imaging engine using at least the first and the second imaging settings, and generating the at least first and second sets of image data respectively corresponding to the first and second imaging settings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Mehul Patel, Kefei Lu, David P. Goren, Edward Hatton, Bruno Vande Vyvre, Eugene Joseph, Bradley S. Carlson
  • Publication number: 20040118929
    Abstract: A group of SAW RFID tags or sensors each has a transducer with interdigitated fingers, a different set of fingers in each tag or sensor being reversed in phase to cause the tag or sensor to provide a unique identifier in a returned impulse response produced by the tag or sensor when interrogated by an interrogation signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Peter J. Edmonson, Colin K. Campbell
  • Publication number: 20040118930
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for producing an transparent or translucent transaction card having multiple features, such as a holographic foil, integrated circuit chip, RFID circuitry, silver magnetic stripe with text on the magnetic stripe, opacity gradient, an invisible optically recognizable compound, a translucent signature field such that the RFID circuitry and signature on back of the card is visible from the front of the card and an active thru date on the front of the card. The invisible optically recognizable compound is an infrared ink and/or film, which can be detected by a sensor found in an ATM or card assembly line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Berardi, Michal Bliman, David S. Bonalle, Jennifer Anne Elwood, Becky Vander Eyk, Matthew C. Hood, Susan E. Isenberg, Leigh Malnati, Alexandra Mayers, Sue Mueller, Zarita Norcross, Peter D. Saunders, Kathryn D. Scheding, Sejal Ajit Shah, Lisa Skilling-Belmond, John R. Williamson
  • Publication number: 20040118931
    Abstract: The use of transient optical state change security materials to authenticate items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Richard H. Selinfreund, Scott Gerger, Peter Miller, Rakesh Vig
  • Publication number: 20040118932
    Abstract: An air handler operates alternately in (a) a heating state at times when air in a space in a building is at an actual temperature that is insufficient relative to a set temperature and (b) a non-heating state at times when the air in the space is at an actual temperature that is sufficient relative to a set temperature, and at least sometimes during the non-heating state, delivering heated air to the space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Michael P. Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20040118933
    Abstract: The present invention is directed at methods and apparatus for controlling multi-source heating systems. The multi-source heating systems of the present invention may include two or more heat sources such as a heat pump, a furnace, an electric heating strip, or any other suitable heat source. An illustrative system includes a multi-zone, multi-source heating system. The illustrative system may determine which of the multiple sources to use depending on a number of factors. Some illustrative factors include information about zones calling for heat, external environment information, and information about the heat sources. One of the heat sources may be, for example, a heat pump, and a determination of whether to activate the heat pump may include determining the current heating capacity of the heat pump and comparing the heating capacity to the amount of heat needed to satisfy the current heat calls. Methods for determining which of at least two heat sources to use are also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: Philip O. Readio, Paul G. Schwendinger, Andrew J. Hulse
  • Publication number: 20040118934
    Abstract: A heater in which, during the glow plug ramp time interval, the amount of energy supplied per unit of time to the glow plug/flame monitor can be successively changed, and a control unit which is operationally coupled to the glow plug/flame monitor. To enable continuous flame monitoring during the starting phase of the heater with the control unit, the resistance value of the glow plug/flame monitor is determined during the glow plug ramp time interval and compared to a threshold value RGS, and when the threshold value RGS is not reached, a flame-out signal is generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: WEBASTO THERMOSYSTEME INTERNATIONAL GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Backer, Werner Hoglmaier, Felix Wolf
  • Publication number: 20040118935
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of improving the performance of a jetting assembly in an apparatus for jetting droplets of viscous medium on the fly onto a substrate. The jetting assembly is releasably mounted in the apparatus and comprises a nozzle, an ejection mechanism connected to the nozzle, and a viscous medium container connect to the eject mechanism. Information relating to an XY-position and a Z-position is obtained together with information regarding the exit velocity a droplet of viscous medium has when it exits the nozzle. The information is used as a basis for adjusting a trigger position of the nozzle for the subsequent jetting of droplets. The invention also concerns such a jetting assembly comprising storage means arranged to receive and hold calibration information of properties of the assembly obtained during calibration measurements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 9, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: William Holm, Mikael Kamfors, Magnus Fridsell
  • Publication number: 20040118936
    Abstract: A plug and wickholder is configured to be reliably sealed to the neck of a bottle which contains a liquid to be atomized and to a cap which seals the bottle during storage. The plug and wickholder includes a first generally tubular wall which contains a wick and which fits tightly into a cap sealing wall, and it further includes a generally cylindrical sealing wall which fits tightly into a bottle neck. A second generally vertical tubular wall is interposed between the first generally tubular wall and the generally cylindrical sealing wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventors: David J. Schram, Stephen M. Doerr, Maryann Jashinske, John A. Boticki, James L. Bournoville
  • Publication number: 20040118937
    Abstract: A fire fighting apparatus includes a high ground-clearance motorized vehicle having a chassis and rear drive wheels, and a quenching agent tank affixed to the chassis, the quenching agent tank being made of a first tank portion; and a second tank portion located between the first tank portion and the chassis, a width of the second tank portion being greater than a width of the first tank portion, and a distance between a center of mass of the tank and the chassis being as small as possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Inventor: Daniel A. Feller