Patents Issued in September 2, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040169044
    Abstract: A cover structure (1) for a portable electronic device includes a back cover (10) and a front cover (20), wherein the back cover forms a main joint portion (120), the front cover forms a shell (22), the main joint portion has an arcuate wall (121), and a cutout portion (1210) is formed on the arcuate wall. When assembling the back and front covers, a knuckle (12) is formed by means of the shell engaging with the main joint portion on the cutout portion thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Chia-Hua Chen, Qing Ming Huang
  • Publication number: 20040169045
    Abstract: A disposable container assembly suited for use as an child's drinking cup with a passive closure system, the assembly comprises a container portion, a lid portion, and a hinge, which joins the container portion and the lid portion; the hinge is joined to a location on a sidewall of the container portion and is also joined to the lid portion; the lid portion is provided with a top surface, from which depends a skirt that extends around the perimeter of the top surface, the top surface is also provided with a drinking spout, which extends upward from the top surface; the drinking spout is provided at its upper end with at least one opening; the passive closure system consists of the opening in the lid that is sufficiently sized so that, when a liquid beverage is unintentionally positioned at the opening, the surface tension of the liquid beverage is sufficient so that the liquid beverage does not flow though the opening under normal conditions but when a person intentionally desires to drink from the container
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Jean Pierre Giraud
  • Publication number: 20040169046
    Abstract: The invention relates to a holding mechanism for holding of pieces of fabric (22), comprising a base holder (11), which can be fastened on a wall (16), and a rocker arm (12), which is arranged pivotally about an axis of rotation (13) on the base holder (11), with an upper and a lower leg (20, 21), whereby a piece of fabric (22), which is to be held, can be clamped between a first clamping surface (26) existing on the lower leg (20) of the rocker lever (12) and a second clamping surface (27).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Volker Stoll
  • Publication number: 20040169047
    Abstract: A dispenser for inter-folded sheet includes a replaceable cartridge. In preferred embodiments, the replaceable cartridge includes a generally planar rectangular core having a stack of inter-folded food service sheets wrapped around the core in a U-shape and retained in position by shrink wrap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Janica S. Behnke, Kathleen R. Rigotti, Katie L. Thomas, Timothy P. Hartjes, Michael R. Kilgore, Gregory D. Budz
  • Publication number: 20040169048
    Abstract: A vending machine comprises a first product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza crust product, a second product dispensing unit configured for dispensing packaged pizza topping product, and an information processing apparatus coupled to the first product dispensing unit and the second dispensing unit. The information processing apparatus is configured for facilitating input and processing of a customer-configured pizza preparation kit order. The first product dispensing unit is a frozen product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza crust product to be selectively dispensed. The second product dispensing unit is a refrigerated product dispensing unit configured for enabling different types of packaged pizza topping product to be selectively dispensed. The information processing apparatus includes an user interface arrangement, an order processing arrangement and a kit component management arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: David Odeu Simmons
  • Publication number: 20040169049
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing solid objects comprising a reservoir for retaining solid objects that is in communication with dispensing zone having a reusable opening and an ejector positioned opposite a space for retaining a solid object, wherein the dispensing zone is positioned under the reservoir, the dispensing zone is defined on an upper side by a first wall of positive slope and a second wall of negative slope, and the reusable opening is on a first side of the dispensing zone and the ejector is on a second side of the dispensing zone that is opposite the first side.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Jean Pierre Giraud
  • Publication number: 20040169050
    Abstract: An apparatus attachable to a bag containing a bulk particulate material and having a discharge spout for dispensing material from the bag generally consisting of first and second annular clamping members displaceable axially between a first, spaced apart condition permitting a portion of the spout to be drawn in position therebetween, and a second, adjacent condition clamping the spout portion position therebetween, and means for releasably retaining the members in the clamping condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Richard W. Ambs
  • Publication number: 20040169051
    Abstract: The invention discloses a device intended for dispensing first and second flowable substances for the preparation of a food or beverage. This device includes first and second container holders each comprising an apertured plate member for receiving a container opening, with the plate member being adapted to move from a closed position, wherein a portion of the plate member obturates the container opening, to an open position, where the flowable substance can be dispensed from the container, and vice versa. First and second container opening connection structures are provided for operatively associating each container opening with its respective apertured plate member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Gerhard Ufheil, Gerald Squires
  • Publication number: 20040169052
    Abstract: An easily operable telescopic pump includes a first cylinder, a second cylinder, a grip and a nozzle. The second cylinder is inserted in the first cylinder. The grip is communicated with the second cylinder. The nozzle is communicated with the grip. A pipe extends through the grip and includes an end inserted in the second cylinder and an opposite end connected with the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Scott Wu
  • Publication number: 20040169053
    Abstract: A guide device attached to the end of a caulking tube to aide an individual in the application of a substance to a surface, thereby minimizing the amount of time involved to apply the substance and further minimizing unnecessary waste of the substance. The guide device being a detachable application guide with a protrusion that may be draw along a straight edge to help keep the nozzle steady during application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Lance Liljeqvist
  • Publication number: 20040169054
    Abstract: Ski Carrying Strap with a rope type strap, a pair of identical retaining clips attached to each end of the strap, and a padded strap cover. The clip has a C shaped rope retaining opening and an aperture for inserting the strap which is then tied in a knot to retain the strap to the clip. In the preferred embodiment the retaining clip is made of rigid material such as metal or plastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Edmund Chan
  • Publication number: 20040169055
    Abstract: A fishing rod case is comprised of a flexible longitudinal bag with a storage pouch on one side and an adjustable length strap at the closed end of the bag connectable to the opposite end so that it may serve as a tackle storage case easily carried by the fisherman during use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2001
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Andrezj Redzisz
  • Publication number: 20040169056
    Abstract: A belt mounted ID/credit card anti-theft device for securely holding at least one such card. The device comprises a first rectangular body and a second elongate body. The first rectangular body includes a chamber adapted for receiving and securely holding the card. The second elongate body comprises means for demountably mounting the first rectangular body to a belt or strap and means for sealing the card securely within the chamber in a locked configuration. Another embodiment of the invention is disclosed wherein the rectangular body comprises a first front card holding chamber and a second rear card holding chamber. Various devices for attaching the device to a belt or strap are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: John Anthony Mayzel
  • Publication number: 20040169057
    Abstract: A pneumatic gun for fixing elements, comprising a body (2) provided with pneumatically-actuated means for expelling the fixing elements, a handle (3) that protrudes from the body (2) and a magazine (4), for storing and individually feeding the elements, defined by a box-like container (11) provided with a sliding flap (13) for inserting the elements, the body (2) being provided with a working head (8) for driving the elements that can be coupled to a complementary end head (9) of the box-like container (11) that is affected by an opening (18) for the passage of the elements and is adapted to form, together with the head (8), a firing channel (7) for the elements; the gun comprises a guide (38) that runs from the head (8) to the handle (3) and with which the box-like container (11) is coupled slidingly so as to allow a manual translational motion of the magazine (4) from a first active end position, in which the complementary head (9) is adjacent to the head (8), allowing the expulsion of the elements through
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: FASCO, S.P.A.
    Inventor: Marco Ronconi
  • Publication number: 20040169058
    Abstract: Problems: To provide a stapler apparatus that can perform secure stapling operation and make the overall apparatus smaller in size and more stable in operation by suppressing deviation of driving position with a driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Naoto Mochizuki
  • Publication number: 20040169059
    Abstract: A hammer-type stapler with cartridge is a tool using in building working for driving staples into a working object, comprising a casing having a hollow hammer casing on the front portion of the casing for containing a driving unit. The driving unit moves vertically by inertia force and having a driving element for driving staples, and an elastic element for recoiling the driving unit. A replaceable cartridge is installed in the casing and adjacent to the driving element having two identical, upper and lower staple containers. A pushing device is slidably mounted in the casing for holding the cartridge and pushing staples. The cartridge can load different size staples.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Chun-Ming Lu
  • Publication number: 20040169060
    Abstract: Apparatus and methods for applying solder paste to circuits, such as integrated circuits, are disclosed. The apparatus and methods comprise a squeegee blade having a pair of elongated face sides spaced apart by a selected thickness and a corresponding pair of elongated substantially parallel narrow sides spaced apart by a selected width. The elongated face sides and elongated narrow sides join together to form squeegee operating edges. The squeegee blade is free of mounting aperture as to provide four operating edges. The squeegee blade is mounted to a resilient clamping structure which applies a regular and controlled gripping force so as to avoid deformation of the squeegee blade edge due to excessive mounting force. The plurality of fasteners are received by the clamping structure for adjusting the gripping force to the squeegee blade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Eric P. Velasquez, Jason Ronnie P. Ribunal
  • Publication number: 20040169061
    Abstract: The invention relates to a welding accessory (1) to support and centre two pipe ends (2a, 2b) to be butt-welded. The welding accessory (1) comprises a central guide frame, (3, 4, 5a-d), over which the two pipes ends (2a, 2b) can be slid, provided with supports (13a-d, 16a-d) and with pressure means, for pressing the supports against the pipes walls. The supports (13a-d) have a triangular or trapezial shape and have a radius of curvature of the pipes. The space between the supports (13a-d) is filled by auxiliary supports (16a-d), also having a triangular or trapezial shape, which are pulled in place by springs (18a-d).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Jan Schepers
  • Publication number: 20040169062
    Abstract: The present invention is a welded portion constitution between a first member (38) and a second member (33), comprising an inclined portion (3) provided on an end portion of at least one of the first member (38) and second member (33), and a weld bead (5) provided so as to cover at least a part of the inclined portion (3). According to the present invention, the strength of the welded joint portion can be improved without increasing the sheet thickness of the first member (38) or second member (33), and without increasing the number of components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Press Kogyo Co. , Ltd.
    Inventors: Hisanao Maruyama, Rikuo Osaki, Youichi Koyama
  • Publication number: 20040169063
    Abstract: A method of joining superalloy substrates together comprises diffusion bonding the superalloy substrates by depositing an activator directly on the surface of the joint to be bonded and thereafter subjecting the joint to heat and pressure. The heat and pressure causes the surface of the superalloy, in the presence of the activator, to diffusion bond without the use of a brazing alloy. By eliminating the brazing alloy, a high strength, high temperature bond is achieved, yet there is no molten brazing alloy to be drawn through capillary action into any fine features surrounding the joint being bonded, and there is no residue left at the interface that would diminish the mechanical or chemical properties of the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2002
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Triumph Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard J. Stueber, Brenton L. Blanche
  • Publication number: 20040169064
    Abstract: Methods of bonding two components may include positioning the components relative to one another to obtain a desired orientation. Once the desired orientation is obtained, the components can be bonded in the desired orientation with metal wherein a temperature of both components is maintained below a melting temperature of the metal while bonding. Related structures are also discussed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Glenn A. Rinne, Krishna K. Nair
  • Publication number: 20040169065
    Abstract: A process and an apparatus for applying a brazing material to a metallic structure, especially a honeycomb body, include bringing the metallic structure into contact with a pulverulent brazing material in such a way that the brazing material at least partially adheres to the metallic structure. The metallic structure and/or the brazing material are made to vibrate, at least when they are in contact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Hans-Peter Caspar, Ferdi Kurth, Alex Scholz
  • Publication number: 20040169066
    Abstract: A gable top package (1, 1′, 1″) for pourable food products comprising a gabled top portion (4) including a front sloping top wall (10) and a back sloping top wall (11) joined together at a top transversal seal (12), characterized in that the gabled top portion (4) includes a pair of lateral flaps (13, 14) adjacent to respective end portions (12a, 12b) of the top transversal seal (12) and folded out of the package top volume available for the food product and delimited by the front and backs loping top walls (10, 11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Lars-Erik Palm
  • Publication number: 20040169067
    Abstract: A box formed from a foldable blank sheet includes a bottom panel, left and right panels, front and rear panels, and a top panel. A left reinforcing panel is hinged to the left panel and lies against a left portion of the bottom panel. A right reinforcing panel is hinged to the right panel and lies against a right portion of the bottom panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: WATERSON CORP
    Inventor: Waterson Chen
  • Publication number: 20040169068
    Abstract: A single-piece containerboard blank (10) is provided having hingedly-connected first and second side walls (26), (34) in which the second side wall (26) is smaller in length than the first side wall (34). The second side walls each include an outer abutment edge (42). The first side walls include first and second interior end walls (50), (52). Each second interior end wall (52) includes a hypotenuse panel (62) with an inwardly-oriented edge (66). As assembled, the blank (10) forms a container having opposed multi-ply side panels, opposed end panels, and a bottom panel. The hypotenuse panels (62) are oriented in an upright manner and ultimately positioned so that their inwardly-oriented edges (66) push against the first side wall and preferably also against the abutment edges (42) of the second side wall (34). The hypotenuse panels (62) offer stacking strength and reinforcement to the container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: David J. McKenna
  • Publication number: 20040169069
    Abstract: The punching machine comprises a base frame which defines an upper horizontal work table for working metal sheets and bars, an operating turret positioned above said work table and housing a punching ram, a first support member for at least one male punch holder driven rotationally by a respective first motor assembly and supported on said turret in vertical alignment below said punching ram, a second support member for a female die holder inserted in said work table in vertical alignment with said first support member and driven rotationally by a respective second motor assembly synchronised with said first motor assembly, at least one element for selection and contact with a male punch interposed between said ram and said male punch holder driven rotationally by a respective third motor assembly; said male punch holder and female die holder can be driven by respective drive arrangements with synchronous rotational movement around a common vertical axis relative to said first support member and said second s
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Giogio Ostini
  • Publication number: 20040169070
    Abstract: A wheel chart having at least one rigid disk formed by a compact disk which, in addition to having a mirrored or reflective layer capable of carrying reproducible information, has legible matter on an obverse side which cooperates with a member such as a transparent rigid disk which can also bear indicia to enable calculations to be made by relative rotation of the disks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Ronald Bromberg, Anthony Wilson
  • Publication number: 20040169071
    Abstract: Scent formulation information is imparted onto an authentication token. The scent formulation information may be used in numerous authentication applications, such as security badges, airline tickets, and so forth. Various methods and systems involving such tokens are disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Appleton Papers Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond John Burgan, Ted Ernest Goodwin, Steven Lawrence Vervacke
  • Publication number: 20040169072
    Abstract: A business card reader includes a scanning module, a USB detecting/switching unit and two USB ports. The business card reader is connected to at least one of a personal computer and a PDA through the two USB ports, respectively. The USB detecting/switching unit controls the data transmission path among the scanning module, the personal computer and the PDA. The business card reader has a socket electrically connected to an external power source for charging a PDA connected to one USB port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: David Peng
  • Publication number: 20040169073
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for use in a variety of communications systems providing one or more payment alternatives for communication services and automatically selecting of a group of alternative payment techniques while significantly reducing the amount of interactive activity required from the user. Upon entry of a request to establish communications between calling and called electronic devices, the system initially looks towards a primary service provider. Absent acceptance of the request for service by the primary service provider, for whatever reason, the system automatically reverts to an alternative service provider and/or payment provider by searching data provided by the user and coupled to the electronic device for which a communication link is requested, eliminating the need for any further input by the user in the form of redialing the call, providing data through insertion of a debit or credit card, for example, identifying the alternative payment provider.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: InterDigital Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Steven Jeffrey Goldberg, Alain Charles Louis Briancon
  • Publication number: 20040169074
    Abstract: An ATM currency cassette (208) includes a plurality of movable cassette information indicator buttons (214). Each button can be rotated about an axis for repositioning. The buttons can be axially moved outward and inward relative to the cassette housing (210) by rotation thereof. Different axial arrangements of the buttons represent respective different characteristics of cassette content. The cassette can be inserted into an ATM where the button positions can be read by the ATM. The cassette enables unused buttons to remain therewith and also permits a button arrangement to be changed without requiring opening of the cassette.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Diebold Self-Service Systems, Division of Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: Jon Washington, Eric VanKeulen, Jeffrey Eastman
  • Publication number: 20040169075
    Abstract: An ATM currency cassette (208) includes a plurality of movable cassette information indicator buttons (214). Each button can be rotated about an axis for repositioning. The buttons can be axially moved outward and inward relative to the cassette housing (210) by rotation thereof. Different axial arrangements of the buttons represent respective different characteristics of cassette content. The cassette can be inserted into an ATM where the button positions can be read by the ATM. The cassette enables unused buttons to remain therewith and also permits a button arrangement to be changed without requiring opening of the cassette.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Diebold Self-Service Systems, Division of Diebold, Incorporated
    Inventors: Jon Washington, Songtao Ma, Kenneth Turocy, Damon J. Blackford, H. Thomas Graef
  • Publication number: 20040169076
    Abstract: One aspect of the invention is a system controlling individual access at an airport. The system comprising an access card having machine readable information of an encoded biometric characteristic. An access control terminal includes a reader for reading the encoded biometric characteristic from the access card. A biometric reader makes a contemporaneous biometric reading of the presenting individual. A processor grants or denies access by comparing the read encoded biometric reading with the presenting individual biometric reading. Another aspect of the invention is controlling entry to commercial vehicles. A biometric reading of a passenger is taken. A boarding pass having the passenger's biometric reading is generated. A contemporaneous biometric reading of each passenger presenting a boarding pass is taken. The presented boarding pass encoded information is compared to a contemporaneous input. Based on the comparison, access is granted or denied.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Accu-Time Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard A. Beale, Paul D. Benoit, Joseph B. Shea
  • Publication number: 20040169077
    Abstract: A Combination Electronic and Paper Ballot Voting System with electronic vote capture capability for automatically recording, tallying, and storing votes. Election headquarters computer software (50) combines voter data from precinct computers (71) and produces tallies. Precinct computers (71) use software (80) for vote data collection from electronic readers (61) that interface with precinct computers (71) via cables (35) through a system controller (72) that is a hub for connecting readers (61) with precinct computers (71). A voter places configured paper ballot (34) on reader (61) and marks choices on ballot (34) using a combination electronic and ink-marking stylus (62). An XY coordinate positioning device (89), inside reader (61) and underneath ballot placement area, electronically captures voter choices. Voter data are instantly transferred to precinct computers (71).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Steven D. Petersen, Howard K. Jaecks
  • Publication number: 20040169078
    Abstract: An electrical charger integrating a business card scanner therein has the functions of charging a personal digital assistant (PDA) and recording a business card. The electrical charger has a casing and a charger body. The casing has an entry, an exit and a cradle mounted on the casing. The cradle has a first through hole and a second through hole. The charger body is mounted inside the casing, and has a charging unit with a power connector, and a scanning unit with a signal connector. The power connector and the signal connector respectively penetrate through the first and second through holes. The business card travels from the entry of the casing to the exit of the casing to be scanned by the scanner integrated in the electrical charger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: I Hung Tu
  • Publication number: 20040169079
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable card reader for communication with card provided with a chip, such as so called smart cards. The reader comprises processing means, a card holder for holding the card in contact with connection means to form a connection between said chip and said processing means, a display and entering means for manually entering information into the reader. The entering means comprises a roller for scrolling a predetermined set of input items, simultaneously being displayed on the display, and an entry key for selecting a presently chosen one of said input item.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Per Skygebjerg
  • Publication number: 20040169080
    Abstract: An IC card 1 (portable card) having an integrated device. The IC card 1 includes a nonvolatile memory 12 and an encryption circuit 10. The nonvolatile memory 12 is accessed after the IC card 1 is placed in a radio wave zone to receive a power supply from a terminal apparatus through a radio wave. The encryption circuit 10 coordinates with a first terminal apparatus to perform a mutual authentication. The integrated device includes a nonvolatile memory 13 and an encryption circuit 11. The nonvolatile memory 13 is accessed after the IC card 1 is placed at a location close to an antenna in the first terminal apparatus and only after the IC card 1 receives a higher-level power supply from the antenna. The encryption circuit 11 coordinates with the terminal apparatus to perform a mutual authentication. Personal information that requires high security is stored in the nonvolatile memory 13 and the encryption circuit 11 performs a mutual authentication whenever the nonvolatile memory 13 is accessed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Masamichi Azuma
  • Publication number: 20040169081
    Abstract: An IC card 1 (portable card) having an integrated device. The IC card 1 includes a nonvolatile memory 12 and an encryption circuit 10. The nonvolatile memory 12 is accessed after the IC card 1 is placed in a radio wave zone to receive a power supply from a terminal apparatus through a radio wave. The encryption circuit 10 coordinates with a first terminal apparatus to perform a mutual authentication. The integrated device includes a nonvolatile memory 13 and an encryption circuit 11. The nonvolatile memory 13 is accessed after the IC card 1 is placed at a location close to an antenna in the first terminal apparatus and only after the IC card 1 receives a higher-level power supply from the antenna. The encryption circuit 11 coordinates with the terminal apparatus to perform a mutual authentication. Personal information that requires high security is stored in the nonvolatile memory 13 and the encryption circuit 11 performs a mutual authentication whenever the nonvolatile memory 13 is accessed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Masamichi Azuma
  • Publication number: 20040169082
    Abstract: An improved card scanner for imaging and decoding data contained in indica such as bar codes on a side surface of an inserted card. The device features a double scanning method using an electronic imaging element and processor which turns off unnecessary power when not required and begins processing data as soon as one captured image is determined complete. This is accomplished through the use of a processor and software to determine if a complete image of the bar code on the inserted card has been captured and allowing immediate processing for data and removal of the card. Should the image of the bar code be incomplete, a second scan is conducted of the bar code as it is removed and a complete image formed from the second or combination of the two individual scans. The device can also be used to compare photographs scanned from a card with the digital photograph encoded in a two dimensional bar code and to display both photos for comparison.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Ali Lebaschi, Scott Bradley, Hak-Soo Kim
  • Publication number: 20040169083
    Abstract: The disclosure describes an apparatus and method for automatic gain control during scanning. The apparatus comprises an optical detector to receive an optical signal reflected from a symbol positioned within a scan window by an optical beam scanned from a leading edge of the scan window to a trailing edge of the scan window; and a processor coupled to the optical detector to adjust the gain of the optical detector during the beam scan. The process comprises receiving an optical signal using an optical detector, wherein the optical signal comprises optical energy reflected from a symbol positioned in a scan window as an optical beam scans from a leading edge of the scan window to a trailing edge of the scan window, and adjusting the gain of the optical detector during receipt of the optical signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Jesse J. Kolstad
  • Publication number: 20040169084
    Abstract: A data reader and method for data reading, such as a barcode scanner, wherein the scan pattern generating optics and other features are optimized for different modes of operation. In a preferred embodiment, different patterns are projected from different apertures in the scanner housing, one scan pattern optimized for handheld operation and the other optimized for fixed operation. Other optimizable features include the presence or absence of an aiming beam, which may be generated from the same laser source as the scan pattern or from another source, and enabling or disabling decoding of the signal received signal during a portion of a facet wheel rotation. Decoding may be disabled while the scan line(s) for handheld use is generated unless a switch or trigger is actuated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: PSC Scanning, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas E. Tamburrini, Michael L. Duncan, Michael J. Ahten, Bryan L. Olmstead, Paul R. Huss
  • Publication number: 20040169085
    Abstract: A card for use in the event of accidents and attachment to an injured person. The card comprises a main part (2), which may bear information concerning the degree of urgency for treatment and possibly a treatment priority for the person. An area (20) of the main part (2) is movably connected to a piece (22). The piece (22) and the area (20) have portions (26, 28, 32, 34), which can be caused to overlap one another. Furthermore, sides (41, 42, 43, 44) of the area (20) and/or the piece (22) may be released in turn on movement of the piece (22) relative to the area (20), where a released side bears the information that is relevant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 15, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Trond Morten Trondsen
  • Publication number: 20040169086
    Abstract: An IC card having high reliability, which is not only in that printing can be surely conducted with respect to the reversible display layer provided on the surface of the card substrate, but also in that the IC chip is surely protected by the reinforcing sheet. An IC card which has: an IC module (1) including an IC chip (14) mounted on an insulating substrate (11), and a reinforcing sheet (16) provided over the IC chip (14) through a sealing resin (15) for sealing the IC chip (14); a card substrate (2) comprised of a resin for sealing the IC module (1); and a reversible recording layer (3) provided on at least one surface of the card substrate (2), wherein reinforcing film patterns (13), (13′) having openings (13a), (13a′) which expose the IC chip (14) mounted portion are provided on at least one of the IC chip (14) mounted surface and the non-mounted surface of the insulating substrate (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Eiji Ohta, Osamu Ishii
  • Publication number: 20040169087
    Abstract: Transaction cards having one or more folds therein to provide compact and easily stored transaction cards are provided. Moreover, foldable transaction cards are provided having one or more holes or apertures therein for holding key chains, or other devices for attaching the transaction cards to other items, such as sets of keys, wallets, or other items. Other embodiments include spring-loaded clips on the foldable transaction cards and protective sleeves, housings or cases for full-sized and smaller-sized cards. Still further, transaction card systems are provided comprising a case or housing for holding and/or storing foldable transaction cards therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Ellen Lasch, Lisa Ann Morrill Webb, Priscilla Gandel
  • Publication number: 20040169088
    Abstract: A non-rectangular or asymmetrically shaped credit card or phone card with an associated case or holder. The card has a configuration that complements the configuration of the case so that the card is easily removed from the holder for access, yet is maintained inside the case in a covered position and is protected from abuse. The case is designed to be light-weight and easily carried and to serve as a device to carry the card in a safe and convenient manner outside of a wallet or purse. Alternatively, the card may be in an I-shape or square shape configuration.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: DISCOVER FINANCIAL SERVICES
    Inventors: David W. Nelms, Betty M. Schick, Kimberly S. Wilson, Roger C. Hochschild
  • Publication number: 20040169089
    Abstract: A thermally powered VAV diffuser assembly (21, 221) having a housing (42, 242) formed for coupling to a supply air duct or conduit (22, 222), a damper (24, 224) mounted across a supply air opening (27, 227) for movement relative thereto to vary the volume of supply air discharge from the diffuser and a thermally powered damper position controlled device or assembly (28, 228). The control assembly (28, 228) includes not more than two sensor-actuators (31, 32, 231, 232) and a movable linkage assembly. The linkage assembly transmits movement of the sensor-actuators (31, 32, 231, 232) to the damper (24, 224) for displacement of the damper (24, 224) to vary the volume discharged and to produce change-overs between heating and cooling modes. The heating mode and cooling mode set point temperatures are each independently adjustable, and the movable linkage assembly includes a lever (33, 233) pivoted about two pivot points by axles (82, 83, 282, 283) which slide in slots (87, 88, 287, 288).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Robert S. Hunka
  • Publication number: 20040169090
    Abstract: A vehicle cooling device for radiating the heat using a refrigerant includes a main valve for controlling a flow distribution of the refrigerant distributed to a radiator and to at least one of conduits among conduits where the refrigerant flows bypassing the radiator in accordance with a valve opening degree, a thermo element for varying the valve opening degree in accordance with the temperature of the refrigerant, the thermo element including a temperature sensing portion, a water pump for circulating the refrigerant via the main valve, the water pump including an inlet, a radiator conduit provided downstream of the radiator, the inlet of the water pump and the radiator conduit arranged being opposite to each other along an operational direction of the main valve, and the temperature sensing portion of the thermo element positioned at the inlet side of the water pump relative to the main valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicants: AISIN SEIKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA, NIPPON THERMOSTAT CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yukio Kawasaki, Toshitaka Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20040169091
    Abstract: An air freshener device includes a scent material interspersed within a polymer body or a polymer gel, and capable of dispersing out of the polymer gel. The polymer body and a polymer gel can be flexible and compressible, and also resilient and returnable to its original configuration. In addition, the polymer body and the polymer gel can have a freestanding, self-supported, three-dimensional shape. The air freshener can include a tacky or clingy attachment surface to contact and cling to a support surface by mechanical or specific adhesion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: American Covers, Inc.
    Inventors: Alan J. Wheatley, Christopher D. Anderson
  • Publication number: 20040169092
    Abstract: The fuel injection system has a high-pressure fuel pump (10) with a fuel injection valve (12) connected to it for each cylinder of the internal combustion engine. A pump piston (18) of the high-pressure fuel pump (10) defines a pump working chamber (22) that communicates with a pressure chamber (40) of the fuel injection valve (12), which has an injection valve element (28) that controls injection openings (32) and can be moved in an opening direction (29) counter to a closing force by the pressure prevailing in the pressure chamber (40). A first control valve (68) controls a connection (66) of the pump working chamber (22) to a relief chamber (24) and a second control valve (70) controls a connection (64) of a control pressure chamber (52), which communicates with the pump working chamber (22), to a relief chamber (24).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Peter Boehland
  • Publication number: 20040169093
    Abstract: A system and method for reducing fluid drainage into air passageways of a spray device during disassembly. The present technique provides an internally mountable fluid nozzle having a fluid inlet, a fluid exit, and a converging central passageway extending substantially between the fluid inlet and the fluid exit. Accordingly, the internally mountable fluid nozzle has a relatively small internal volume, which reduces the amount of fluid that can be spilled during disassembly of the spray device. The present technique also provides a section of the spray device having an air passageway with an air exit, and a protrusive fluid passageway with a fluid exit in a protrusive offset position from the air exit. The internally mountable fluid nozzle can be mounted to the section in fluid communication with the protrusive fluid passageway, such that fluid spillage or drainage during disassembly does not flow into the air passageway.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher L. Strong