Patents Issued in July 20, 2004
  • Patent number: 6764365
    Abstract: Buoyancy control systems for tubes are described. In one embodiment, a buoyancy control system can include a composite tube and a buoyancy control material for controlling the buoyancy of the composite tube. The composite tube can include an internal liner an external coaxial composite layer of fibers embedded in a matrix. One or more portions of the buoyancy control material can be attached to one or more portions of the composite tube to adjust the buoyancy of the one or more portions of the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Fiberspar Corporation
    Inventors: Peter A. Quigley, Stephen C. Nolet, Thomas W. Wideman
  • Patent number: 6764366
    Abstract: An electrode structure for a display that includes lower electrodes and upper electrodes. In one embodiment, lower and upper electrodes are formed of either an aluminum alloy or a silver alloy. In another embodiment, upper and lower electrodes are formed using a metal alloy layer over which a cladding layer is deposited. A silicon nitride passivation layer is used to protect the upper electrodes from damage in subsequent process steps. Various other materials and structures are also disclosed that protect the upper electrodes from damage in subsequent process steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignees: Candescent Intellectual Property Services, Inc., Candescent Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Jueng Gil Lee, Christopher J. Spindt, Johan Knall, Matthew A. Bonn, Kishore K. Chakravorty
  • Patent number: 6764367
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a light-emitting panel sandwiches a plurality of micro-components between two flexible substrates in a web configuration. Each micro-component contains a gas or gas-mixture capable of ionization when a sufficiently large voltage is supplied across the micro-component via at least two electrodes. The micro-components are disposed in sockets formed at pre-determined locations in a first dielectric substrate so that they are adjacent to electrodes imprinted in the first substrate. Dielectric layers and the conductors for acting as electrodes are formed using liquid processes or combined liquid and sheet processes, where liquid materials are applied to the surface of the underlying layer, then cured to complete the formation of layers. The assembled layers are coated with a protective coating and may include an RF shield. In one embodiment, patterning of the conductors is achieved by applying conductive ink using an ink jet process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Science Applications International Corporation
    Inventors: Albert M. Green, E. Victor George, N. Convers Wyeth
  • Patent number: 6764368
    Abstract: The invention consists of a flat panel display device that combines the simplicity of manufacture of a TFEL display with the phosphor stimulation capabilities of an FED. A phosphor such a ZnS:Mn can act as both an EL phosphor and as a cathodoluminescent phosphor. The phosphor is deposited on a porous silicon underlayer that contains a labyrinth of fissures, voids, hillocks, and microscopically rough surfaces. At the phosphor-porous silicon interface, the labyrinthine surface possesses hundreds to thousands of electric field line compression points that can be characterized by an average field enhancement. When this underlayer is the cathode, high energy electrons are injected into the phosphor producing substantial light emission even at low applied fields. Additionally, the surrounding silicon is available to integrate drive circuitry and provide a TFT at each pixel, if needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: University of North Carolina at Charlotte
    Inventors: Mohamed Ali Hasan, Deirdre Heyde Elqaq
  • Patent number: 6764369
    Abstract: Mass production encapsulation equipment and method for mass production of organic light emitting display devices, having a transporting system, a panel supply system, multiple dispensing systems, turning/storage system, cover plate supply system, lamination/ultra-violet radiation system, and an ultra-violet radiation system. The above systems are linked via the transmission system. Being supplied by the panel supply system, a panel is transported to the turning/storage system for turning over. The panel is then transported into alternate dispensing systems for resin coating. The panel coated with resin is again transported to the turning/storage system for storage. The first exposure stage is performed by an aligning lamination performed on the panel and a cover plate supplied by the cover plate supply system in the lamination/ultra-violet radiation system. The second exposure stage is further performed to cure the resin in the ultra-violet radiation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: RiTdisplay Corporation
    Inventors: Yuang-Wei Lai, Jih-Yi Wang, Mao-Kuo Wei
  • Patent number: 6764370
    Abstract: A bubble wand with an ornamental figure and an ornamental bubble loop. The ornamental figure and ornamental loop are provided in the form of beads, shapes, letters, a small figurine of an animal, plant, person, cartoon character, action figure, or other attractive representation. The ornamental figure and loop are attached to the wand or are provided with a means for releasably or slidably attaching the ornamental figure to the wand or to a suction tube used in many soap dispensers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Mary Kay Bitton
  • Patent number: 6764371
    Abstract: An amusement device toy in the shape of a flying saucer disk having aero-dynamically shaped whistle structures for emitting different tones when the disk is thrown into the air, mounted symmetrically on the periphery of the disk. The size of the whistle air chambers may be varied or the openings for admitting air displaced at different angles to obtain the different tones, while the aero-dynamic shape of the whistle assures laminar flow of air over the whistle entry for increased air flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventors: William V. Hartman, Ralph P. Shaw, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6764372
    Abstract: A puppet book kit and associated method of using the puppet book kit are disclosed. The puppet book kit comprises a plurality of pages, a cover, an aperture traversing through each of the pages and through the cover to form a three dimensional void, a backdrop curtain, a slide out panel, at least one card holder, a plurality of story cards, and at least one marionette. The plurality of pages is bound together to the cover along one common edge. The backdrop curtain is attached onto the cover, in which the backdrop curtain covers over the cover aperture. The slide out panel is slidably attached to the cover, wherein the slide out panel is mounted over the cover aperture and positioned under the backdrop curtain. Each card holder is attached to each corresponding page in which each story card is attachable to each card holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Rita Rae
  • Patent number: 6764373
    Abstract: A charging system for a mobile robot includes the mobile robot that is battery-driven and moves in a self-controlled way within a work space, and a charging station for accommodating the mobile robot for a battery charging operation. The charging system includes visible recognition data arranged in a predetermined location of the charging station, an image pickup unit mounted on the mobile robot, a calculating unit for calculating a range and a bearing from the mobile robot to the charging station, based on an image picked up by the image pickup unit, and a searching unit for causing the mobile robot to search for the charging station, based on the calculation result provided by the calculating unit. Since the mobile robot searches for the charging station using a camera for recognizing the visible recognition data, a charging operation is automated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Osawa, Naoyasu Hosonuma
  • Patent number: 6764374
    Abstract: A radio controlled vehicle have greater than two gyroscopic action wheels provides a wider range of stunt options and increased stability during operation. The overall weight of the vehicle with respect to the combined mass and gyroscopic force which the gyroscopic wheels can produce for given rpm speeds is maintained within a predetermined operating range in order to provide the increased stunt maneuverability and stabilization during operation. The torque reaction of opposing gyroscopic wheels or wheel pairs creates a range stunt inducing forces/actions equal to or greater than the gyro effect created by the respective wheels. The combination of the torque reaction and gyro effect broadens the scope of existing stunt capabilities and make possible a completely new range of stunt inducing actions not available in other radio control toys.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Leynian Ltd. Co.
    Inventors: Neil Tilbor, Michael G. Hetman
  • Patent number: 6764375
    Abstract: A rotabable decorative-article structure including a rotating device connected with and supported by a base device is disclosed. The rotating device includes a fixed seat, a motor, a guiding cylinder and a rotating seat. The fixed seat includes a through opening and an annular slot with a guiding surface. The motor with a shaft is mounted on the fixed seat. The guiding cylinder is located inside the annular slot and includes a guiding wall to form a guiding track with respect to the guiding surface. The rotating seat is rotatably furnished in the annular slot, and includes a ring gear driven by the shaft of the motor and at least one guiding pillar with a guiding wheel sliding within the guiding track. The rotating seat is individually rotated, and the optical fibers and/or the wires separately go through the opening of the fixed seat. Therefore, the fiber decorations can be further used to decorate the rotatable decorative article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Lieh-Liang Hsu
  • Patent number: 6764376
    Abstract: The invention is a spring-driven toy vehicle having front and rear chassis portions, at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel. The front chassis portion is hingably connected to the rear chassis portion. The chassis portions are capable of a pivotal motion relative to one another from a first undeflected position to a second deflected position. A drive motor is mounted to one of the front and rear chassis portions. The motor contains a motor spring. A drive axle is operably connected with the motor spring. The drive axle is connected to at least one front wheel or one rear wheels to rotate the at least one connected wheel. A rotational coupling is configured to transfer the pivotal motion of the chassis portions relative to one another into a rotational motion to wind the motor spring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Felix Agostini, Mary Ellen Gertrude Fosbenner, Gregory John Sisolak, William Francis Michael Dougherty
  • Patent number: 6764377
    Abstract: A disclosed breast milk expression system supports a pair of breast milk collection devices at the breasts of a nursing mother, allowing her to express breast milk while keeping her hands free. No special bra or other garment is required to provide support. The system includes a substantially rigid bar, a strap, and a pair of breast milk collection device connectors at or near opposite ends of the bar. The strap is comprised of a length of slender, flexible support material, significantly longer than the bar. The strap extends from a point at or near one end of the bar to a point at or near another end of the bar and can suspend from a nursing mother's neck, thereby suspending a pair of breast milk collection devices near the nursing mother's breasts to express milk from them. Numerous variations and methods are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Jonathan C. Gillan
  • Patent number: 6764378
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to an apparatus and method for flow regulation of planarization fluids to a semiconductor wafer planarization machine. In one embodiment, the regulating system includes a fluid storage tank with an acoustic fluid level sensor. The storage tank is connected to a fluid delivery line that delivers planarization fluid to the storage tank through a flow control valve and delivers a regulated flow of planarization fluid to a planarization machine through a flow sensor. A gas supply system is connected to the storage tank to provide system pressurization. Regulation of the fluid flow is achieved by a control system in which the flow sensor and the acoustic fluid level sensor comprise feedback elements in a closed feedback system to independently control the pressure in the storage tank and the fluid admitted by the control valve. In an alternate embodiment, the fluid level sensor is comprised of capacitive proximity sensors located outside the wall of the storage tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Brett A. Mayes
  • Patent number: 6764379
    Abstract: A method and system are presented for monitoring a process sequentially applied to a stream of substantially identical articles by a processing tool, so as to terminate the operation of the processing tool upon detecting an end-point signal corresponding to a predetermined value of a desired parameter of the article being processed. The article is processed with the processing tool. Upon completing the processing in response to the end-point signal generated by an end-point detector continuously operating during the processing of the article, integrated monitoring is applied to the processed article to measure the value of the desired parameter. The measured value of the desired parameter is analyzed to determine a correction value thereof to be used for adjusting the end-point signal corresponding to the predetermined value of the desired parameter for terminating the processing of the next article in the stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Nova Measuring Instruments Ltd.
    Inventor: Moshe Finarov
  • Patent number: 6764380
    Abstract: The thickness of a layer on a substrate is measured in-situ during chemical mechanical polishing. A light beam is divided through a window in a polishing pad, and the motion of the polishing pad relative to the substrate causes the light beam to move in a path across the substrate surface. An interference signal produced by the light beam reflecting off the substrate is monitored, and a plurality of intensity measurements are extracted from the interference signal. Each intensity measurement corresponds to a sampling zone in the path across the substrate surface. A radial position is determined for each sampling zone, and the intensity measurements are divided into a plurality of radial ranges according to the radial positions. The layer thickness is computed for each radial range from the intensity measurements associated with that radial range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Applied Materials Inc.
    Inventors: Andreas Norbert Wiswesser, Walter Schoenleber, Boguslaw Swedek
  • Patent number: 6764381
    Abstract: A polishing apparatus is used for polishing a substrate such as a semiconductor wafer, and has a sensor capable of continuously detecting the thickness of an electrically conductive layer. The polishing apparatus includes a polishing table having a polishing surface, and a top ring for holding and pressing the substrate against the polishing surface to polish the surface of the substrate. A sensor such as an eddy-current sensor is disposed below the polishing surface of the polishing table for measuring the thickness of a conductive layer formed on the surface of the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Ebara Corporation
    Inventors: Norio Kimura, Hideji Isobe, Kazuo Shimizu, Hiroyuki Osawa
  • Patent number: 6764382
    Abstract: Both types of short aramid fibers and non-aramid synthetic fibers are extruded from a side face of each rib in a V-ribbed belt. The extruded section of the short aramid fiber is formed in curled shape. The extruded section of the synthetic fiber is formed in a sector gradually broadened toward its distal end with its non-melting condition maintained. The root portions of the extruded sections of both types of short fibers are raised from the side face of the rib. The extruded sections of the short aramid fibers are extruded in multiple directions, whereas the extruded sections of the synthetic fibers are extruded in a given direction. The extruded section of the short aramid fiber is formed longer than the extruded section of the synthetic fibers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Bando Chemical Industries, LTD
    Inventors: Koji Watanabe, Kazuyoshi Tani, Yoshitaka Kurose
  • Patent number: 6764383
    Abstract: Methods and apparatuses for processing microfeature workpiece samples are disclosed herein. An apparatus in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a support body, a first contact surface portion, a second contact surface portion, and a sample holder configured to releasably carry the microfeature workpiece sample. The sample holder can be movable relative to the support body between a first position and a second position, wherein the sample holder has a first orientation relative to the first and second contact surface portions when in the first position and a second orientation when in the second position. At least one of the first and second contact surface portions can also be movable relative to the support body. Accordingly, an operator can move the first and/or second contact surface portions to make minor adjustments to an angle at which material is removed from the workpiece, and can move the sample holder to make more substantial adjustments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Micron Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip L. Chandler, Mark J. Fiechter, Colin A. Green
  • Patent number: 6764384
    Abstract: An arrangement and method for precision machining of rotationally symmetrical, disk or ring-shaped components. The arrangement includes a container which is open at the top and mounted such that it is able to vibrate. An unbalanced rotor causes the container to vibrate in a rotation-induced manner and has a drive. The container is filled with an abrasive substance including a multitude of abrasive bodies and a liquid. A device for fixing the component is also arranged in the container which has a rotationally symmetrical shape and is arranged in line with a vertical axis. The container also includes a rigid fixing device for horizontally positioning the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: MTU Aero Engines GmbH
    Inventors: Arno Kleer, Rudolf Schoellner, Stefan Karnowski
  • Patent number: 6764385
    Abstract: A plasma assisted cryogenic cleaner for and a method of performing cleaning of a surface that must be substantially free of contaminants has a resiliently mounted nozzle for spraying a cryogenic cleaning medium on the surface. The cleaning is conducted by applying to the substrate surface a mixture of gases selected from the group consisting of oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen, fluorine, hydrofluorocarbon or a mixture of such gases to both remove the photoresist layer and alter the composition of the residues such that the residues are soluble in water and/or have a weakened bonds that they can be removed with a stream of cryogenic medium. The cryogenic and plasma processes can be performed sequentially or simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: NanoClean Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mohamed Boumerzoug, Adel George Tannous, Khalid Makhamreh
  • Patent number: 6764386
    Abstract: Apparatus for processing a surface of a substrate includes a chamber containing a cavity that has one side that is open, the chamber wall including a lip surrounding the open side of the cavity. Gas ports, disposed within the chamber wall and opening through the lip, emit a pressurized gas so as to create a gas cushion between the lip and the surface when the open side of the cavity is placed adjacent to the surface, thus creating a seal between the cavity and an environment external to the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.
    Inventor: Yoram Uziel
  • Patent number: 6764387
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for chemical mechanical polishing in which a substrate is pressed against a polishing pad by a carrier head having a plurality of chambers. A common pressure is applied by the plurality of chambers in the carrier head using a common regulator, but a duration of application of the first pressure to each chamber from the plurality of chambers is controlled independently from other chambers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Applied Materials Inc.
    Inventor: Hung Chih Chen
  • Patent number: 6764388
    Abstract: A high-pressure pad cleaning system that can be used in conjunction with semiconductor device fabrication tools that utilize pads, such as chemical-mechanical polishing (CMP) tools, is disclosed. A system includes a turntable, first and second outlets, and a dresser. A pad is placed on the turntable, where the turntable rotates in a first direction. The first outlet supplies a dressing solution, such as deionized water, onto the pad at a first pressure, substantially at a single point on the center of the pad. The second outlet supplies the solution onto the pad at a second pressure greater than the first pressure, substantially at a radial line from the center of the pad to its edge at an angle and in a direction opposite to the first direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Ying-Chih Liu, Jackson Hsu, Island Ho, Ben Liu
  • Patent number: 6764389
    Abstract: A conditioning bar assembly includes a polycarbonate member, an abrasion member, and a rigid metal element. The abrasion member is supported on an outer surface of the polycarbonate member. The rigid metal element is supported on the polycarbonate member, at least a portion of the polycarbonate member disposed between the rigid metal element and at least a portion of the abrasion member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: LSI Logic Corporation
    Inventors: James V. Butterfield, Rakael L. Pope
  • Patent number: 6764390
    Abstract: An improved vane for use with a centrifugal throwing apparatus. The vane has a convex leading surface and flared edges to provide a consistent, broad blast pattern and improved vane wear characteristics. In one embodiment, the vane includes a pickup end, a discharge end opposed to the pickup end, and a leading surface connecting the pickup end to the discharge end. A portion of the leading surface is convex in cross section. Two opposed longitudinal edges define the leading surface, with at least one of the edges being outwardly flared. In an alternative embodiment, the vane includes a longitudinal raised rail formed near one edge of the leading surface, the rail being outwardly flared.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: International Surface Preparation Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Katherine Holloway, Dan Stoutamire, James Simpkin
  • Patent number: 6764391
    Abstract: A powder, such as an abrasive powder, is delivered from a pressure vessel having an outlet in the floor communicating with a flow of pressurized gas. A container of the particulate material is located within the pressure vessel and has an outlet to dispense small portions of the particulate material. The material in the container is at substantially the same pressure as that in the pressure vessel itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Medivance Instruments Limited
    Inventors: Sidney Grant, Roger Lawrence Beale, Raghuvir Ishwarbhai Patel, Frederick James Garod Bowler
  • Patent number: 6764392
    Abstract: A polishing method and polishing apparatus capable of improving the flatness of a wafer are provided. When a wafer is adhered to a wafer holding plate for polishing a surface to be polished of the wafer by pressing and rubbing the surface to be polished against a polishing pad on a polishing turn table, the wafer is held by vacuum-chucking the surface to be polished of the wafer such that a surface to be adhered of the wafer forms a convex surface in a vicinity including an arbitrary point in the surface to be adhered within a region surrounding a center of the surface to be adhered of the wafer, and the region being at least not less than 50% of an entire adhesion area; and the wafer is adhered to the wafer holding plate from a central portion of the surface to be adhered of the wafer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Shin-Etsu Handotai Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Nihonmatsu, Takahiro Kida, Tadao Tanaka
  • Patent number: 6764393
    Abstract: A shackle assembly (10) transports poultry carcasses along a poultry processing line. Turning block (50) turns the stirrups (18) of the shackle in response to engagement with turning pins (75) that are located along the processing path, so as to properly orient the bird carried by the shackle to the next cutting station. One of the side wings (66) of the turning block (50) is relieved such that its turning slots will not engage the turning pin, thereby avoiding the turning of the stirrups. This assures that the stirrups, and therefore the bird carried by the stirrups, are properly oriented for the next cutting station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Systemate Group, B.V.
    Inventors: Jacobus E. Hazenbroek, Jaco Gardenier
  • Patent number: 6764394
    Abstract: A telescopic extraction arm (1), having an outer tube (4) and an inner tube (6) displaceably and rotatably fitted therein. Via balancing rings (14, 16) fixed on each tube respectively, which are kept a pre-determinable distance apart by a stop member (18) arranged in the outer tube (4), the tubes can be easily displaced and locked in relation to one another with a negligible degree of the “drawer effect” occurring in conventional telescopic arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Plymovent AB
    Inventors: Assar Sharifi, Ambjorn Holmgren
  • Patent number: 6764395
    Abstract: A game of skill wherein a database of advertisement segments from published advertisements is generated and stored and selections of the advertisement segments are displayed or presented to a player for sponsor source identification. The player makes identifications of sponsor sources for the respective advertisement segments presented and these identifications are evaluated for correctness and then displayed to the player. A reward for winning may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Irvin P. R. Guyett
  • Patent number: 6764396
    Abstract: A display device comprising a plurality of prize balls, a ball holder adapted to hold the balls in an individually controlled manner, a controller adapted to select a prize ball, a display mechanism adapted to display the selected prize ball to the player; and a positioning mechanism in communication with the controller adapted to position the selected prize ball relative to the display mechanism. The display device may be combined with a jumbled ball display wherein the balls displayed by the display device appear to originate from the jumbled ball display. The display device may also be combined with a game apparatus that is adapted to allow players to play a game. In this embodiment, the display device may provide a bonus award for the player. Several games are also provided that may be used with the display device. In an alternative embodiment, the jumbled ball display is replaced with a video display device that displays the balls in video form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Atlantic City Coin & Slot Service Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Jerald C. Seelig, Lawrence M. Henshaw
  • Patent number: 6764397
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a method of calculating a payout for a machine based game, comprising choosing a time period over which a measurement will occur, measuring a playing characteristic of a player during the time period, calculating a rate of play based on the measuring step, and adjusting a payout of a gaming machine based on the calculating step. The method allows a degree of skill to be used in a purely or partially chance-based game, making such games more attractive to potential players. Games which may be susceptible to this invention include any games that are all or partially based on chance or luck, such as slot machines, roulette, wheel of fortune, keno, etc. Games of skill may also benefit from the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Skill Safari, LLC
    Inventor: Robert W. Robb
  • Patent number: 6764398
    Abstract: A method and device for gaming, in which a primary game is played toward a winning outcome, and in which a secondary game is played concurrently with the primary game, using outcomes on the primary game to determine the outcome of the secondary game. The secondary game is entirely different from the primary game, and play continues on the secondary game through successive primary games. The player may increase the chances of winning the secondary game by either increasing the wager, which increases the total number of outcomes that apply to the secondary game, or by choosing a variation of the secondary game that has more winning outcomes possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia PTY, LTD
    Inventors: Jay Stone, Steven A. Weiss, Kim Tempest
  • Patent number: 6764399
    Abstract: A game production is effected by utilization of a ringing melody registered in a portable terminal apparatus. With reference to a fruit image table (152), a processing section (110) fetches a fruit image corresponding to a ringing melody number assigned to a ringing melody which has been selected previously in accordance with an instruction. The thus-fetched fruit image is provided within a background image (1200) in a step (S1406). Accordingly, the processing section (110) displays the fruit corresponding to the selected ringing melody within a game screen. A production of an image can be controlled in accordance with the selected ringing melody.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Konami Corporation
    Inventors: Akihiko Nagata, Shigeru Fukutake
  • Patent number: 6764400
    Abstract: A hand-held LCD game machine is combined with a cartridge in which the program datum is memorized. The game machine has a smaller and oblong shape LCD display. When the game is operated in a vertical scrolling manner, the LCD display portion is used lengthwise, while when the operated game is in a horizontal scrolling manner, the LCD display is used sideways. The game is operated by both thumbs of the player's hands, and plural operative key sets and switches are provided in proper positions so that the game machine may be smoothly operated by the player in either a lengthwise or sideways position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Bandai
    Inventors: Gumpei Yokoi, Issey Suga, Kousei Kazeto, Noriyasu Kakuda
  • Patent number: 6764401
    Abstract: An objective is to provide a game system and program which can simply and easily execute a game operation command having a complicated operation procedure. A command list (14) showing techniques each of which is executed normally by manipulating buttons of a game controller with a given operation procedure, is displayed to a player. When a player selects a technique and presses a button B, a key record of that technique is assigned to a game button L. By pressing the button L, the technique of the assigned key record can be performed by a game character (20). The assignment information of key-record is stored in a memory card, enabling the assignment to be effective when the game system is powered on next time. By reading data of a command list externally through an information storage medium or communication line, a secret technique can be obtained. During a game, a command list (14) is displayed and a key record can be assigned to the button L.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Namco, Ltd.
    Inventor: Tetsuya Akatsuka
  • Patent number: 6764402
    Abstract: An image-display game system which can attract players for a long time to play a game can be implemented by presenting helping data of a0 to a63, and b1 to b5 beneficial in the course of a game to friends, and accordingly communications accompanying therewith can be stimulated and activated thereamong, and the game can be effectively utilized as a communications tool. Such image-display game system is so structured that the players' ID data IDn is communicable or exchangeable therein. With the other player's ID received, items beneficial in the course of the game or the helping data of 10 to 163, and b1 to b5 is generated based on the ID data, and is presented to the player. As a result, exchanging of the ID data IDn is activated among the players. The items presented based on the ID data IDn are determined by operating the ID data using an equation in FIG. 17 which is based on a predetermined rule, or in an operation processing by combining the ID data IDn and a random number R.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignees: Nintendo Co., Ltd., Game Freak Inc., Creatures Inc.
    Inventors: Satoshi Tajiri, Tsunekazu Ishihara
  • Patent number: 6764403
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for dynamically loading game software for smooth game play. A load boundary associated with a game environment is identified. A position of a character in the game environment is then monitored. Instructions corresponding to another game environment are loaded into a memory when the character crosses the load boundary, such that game play is not interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc.
    Inventor: Andrew Scott Gavin
  • Patent number: 6764404
    Abstract: An improved drive shaft connecting device, including a novel shear bolt (50) for connecting two ends or flanges (42, 44) of the drive shaft connecting device in a manner whereby the separate parts of the drive shaft connecting device are securely connected to each other and are yet free to disconnect from each other and rotate relative to each other in the case of an overload condition on the drive shaft or drive shaft connecting device. The shear bolt is double ended (i.e. threaded on both ends) and shouldered on both ends. The threads on each end allow the two flanges of the drive shaft coupling device to be pulled together to a pre-determined distance, which, together with a shear point (60), is set by the distance between the opposing shoulders (52) on either side of the shear bolt As well, the flanges of the drive shaft coupling device are designed to accept the shear bolts in slotted openings (46, 48).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Alberta Ltd.
    Inventors: Zan Gullickson, Nowal Pierson
  • Patent number: 6764405
    Abstract: A drive arrangement for a motor vehicle includes a drive shaft, a coupling device, and a coupling arrangement. The drive shaft is connectable with the coupling device for transmission of force solely via the coupling arrangement. The coupling arrangement has a first toothing arrangement connectable with the drive shaft so that the first toothing arrangement is fixed with respect to rotation relative to the drive shaft and a second toothing arrangement connectable with the coupling device so that the second toothing arrangement is fixed with respect to rotation relative to coupling device. The first toothing arrangement and second toothing arrangement engage when the drive shaft and coupling device are coupled together for transmission of force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Mannesmann Sachs AG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Kundermann
  • Patent number: 6764406
    Abstract: A constant velocity joint of tripod type which is both highly strong and durable, and which can maintain a low axial force and low shudder when transmitting torque at a joint angle. The constant velocity joint of tripod type comprises a roller assembly including an outer roller, an inner roller and a needle bearing located therebetween. The outer roller is provided with needle bearing retaining rings and needle bearing stop rings, at each of its upper and lower ends, respectively. The inner roller moves relative to the outer roller in the axial direction. The outer face of the inner roller and the inner face of the outer roller have generally spherical shapes of dimensions similar to each other to freely engage, respectively. The outer face of the trunnion is provided with a partially cylindrical portion with inclined relative to a trunnion centerline.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Yasumasa Mizukoshi, Minoru Ishijima, Toshihiro Ikeda
  • Patent number: 6764407
    Abstract: A constant velocity universal joint is disclosed which includes an outer joint member with three axial track grooves and a tripod member with three radially projecting trunnion journals, each of the trunnion journals carrying a roller assembly received in each of the track grooves, a projection being formed at an end of each trunnion for interference with the roller assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: NTN Corporation
    Inventors: Tatsuhiro Goto, Taku Itagaki, Yukihiro Watanabe, Hisaaki Kura
  • Patent number: 6764408
    Abstract: An inflatable game incorporating a flexible, inflated structure filled with gas, suitable for users to jump and bounce thereupon and a suspended structure that permits users to be suspended above the inflatable structure. The suspended structure may be a zip line, a bridge, or the like. The suspended structure allows users to move from one elevated position on the inflatable structure to another elevated position. The inflatable structures used in conjunction with suspended features provide an added variety of activities to the user. For example, users can hang in midair, drop onto the inflatable structure from elevated heights, engage in competitive activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Russell Coleman
  • Patent number: 6764409
    Abstract: A rotary pool and air powered hockey game table includes a combination game table, two side support members, and at least one cross member. The combination game table includes a pool table surface formed on one side of the combination table and an air powered hockey table surface formed on the opposite side. The at least one cross member is terminated on each end by a single side support member. The combination game table is pivotally retained by a side support member on each end thereof. At least one locking pin device is disposed in at least one side support member to rotatably secure the game table relative to the side support members. A second embodiment includes at least two pivotal support arms, which prevent the combination game table from rotating. A third embodiment includes at least one side support member configured to retain a plurality of game accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Justin L. Voden
  • Patent number: 6764410
    Abstract: A bowling scoring console is disclosed having a housing and a video display monitor mounted in the housing. The console may have one or more of a video game processor, an Internet access device, and a television receiver mounted in the housing and coupled to the display monitor. Methods are also disclosed for using a video game device and an Internet access device in a bowler staging area of a bowling center.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Brunswick Bowling & Billiards Corporation
    Inventors: David L. Apple, Roland C. Bouchard, Gary A. Brouwers, Michael A. Cutlip, David L. Mowers, Robert J. Prinz, Troy A. Recknagel, Timothy J. Ryan
  • Patent number: 6764411
    Abstract: An indoor/outdoor, portable, modular practice golf simulation apparatus that can be modified to be used as a putting green or driving mat. The apparatus includes a plurality of modular frame pieces that are coupled together to form a frame. These modular frame pieces may be unitary structures or urethane foam supported structures. A golf simulation surface having varying length and color simulation grass is attached to the frame to allow for use as a putting green or a driving mat. A plurality of cups, with or with ball clearing ducts, may be molded in the frame pieces to provide a wide variety of golf practice situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: John Knox
  • Patent number: 6764412
    Abstract: A launch monitor system including a support structure, a first light-reflecting element disposed on this support structure, a lighting unit and an camera unit. A computer receives signals generated by light patterns received by the camera unit and computes a variety of flight characteristics for the object. The system may be moved back and forth to vary the field-of-view of the camera unit. The system also computes and displays object trajectories from the computed flight characteristics which account for the characteristics of the object and the atmospheric conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventors: William Gobush, Diane Pelletier, Douglas C. Winfield, Charles Days, Steven Aoyama, Edmund A. Hebert, James Alan Silveira
  • Patent number: 6764413
    Abstract: A replaceable golf club includes a primary rod, a secondary rod, an upper insertion tube inserted into a distal end of the primary rod, and a lower insertion tube inserted into a distal end of the secondary rod and combined with the upper insertion tube. Thus, the user only needs to carry one primary rod and thirteen secondary rods without having to carry thirteen golf clubs, thereby facilitating the user carrying the golf club, and thereby reducing the weight of the golf club.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Inventor: Yang Ching Ho
  • Patent number: 6764414
    Abstract: In a golf club shaft hollow pipe-shaped and composed of a laminate of prepregs, a vibration absorption member (10) made of an elastic material whose tan &dgr; at 10° C. is not less than 0.7 is installed at least one portion inside the hollow pipe-shaped golf club shaft. The vibration absorption member (10) has a body having a hollow portion, a central part connected to the body through a plurality of connection parts and disposed inside the hollow portion, a plurality of projected parts formed on a peripheral surface of the body and contacting an inner peripheral surface of the pipe-shaped golf club shaft. It is preferable that the weight of the vibration absorption member (10) is not less than 1 g nor more than 10 g, that the number of the connection parts is not less than two nor more than 10, and that the weight of the central part is not less than 10 wt % nor more than 60 wt % of a whole weight of the vibration absorption member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2004
    Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Tomio Kumamoto