Patents Issued in September 2, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040169295
    Abstract: To provide an auto-choke control device capable of maintaining a good start ability at the time of restarting at high temperature with a simple construction and without need of using a thermostat specific for an auto-choke, and preventing cost increase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Masashi Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20040169296
    Abstract: Process and device for producing moulded parts from plastic
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Franz Josef Summerer
  • Publication number: 20040169297
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method for determining the optimum individual length of progression of a progressive lens using the measured distance between the vertex of the cornea and a pre-adapted spectacle frame. The invention is characterized by the following steps: a) measurement of the individual distance (HSA) between the vertex of the cornea and a pre-adapted spectacle frame; b) measurement of the individual distance between a distant reference point BF and a centering cross ZK; c) determination of the optimum and individual length of progression (Lopt) according to the following formula: Lopt=0.63*(HSA+13.5 mm)+d(BF, ZK).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Rainer Dorsch
  • Publication number: 20040169298
    Abstract: Provided are a microcapsule and a production method thereof using a low-toxicity polymer substrate which can be produced regardless of a core material's water or oil solubility, without using gelatin or an organic solvent viewed as having a problem with safety. Specifically, provided is a microcapsule comprising oil-based core material which is immiscible with water; and shell material which comprises gum arabic and an enteric anionic cellulose derivative. Also provided is a method for producing a microcapsule comprising steps of suspending an oil-based water-immiscible core material in an aqueous solution of gum arabic, and then adding an aqueous alkaline solution of an enteric anionic cellulose derivative.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Miyuki Fukasawa, Kazuhisa Hayakawa
  • Publication number: 20040169299
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for producing macrocapsules containing therein a plurality of microcapsules. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the microcapsules contain a phase change material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Danny Allen Davis, Ronald Lee Hart, Dale Ellis Work, David Russell Virgallito
  • Publication number: 20040169300
    Abstract: An assembly that can be used in conjunction with a resin moulding apparatus includes means defining a chamber containing a pressure sensor, and an entry passage leading upwardly into the chamber. The arrangement is such that, when the assembly is mounted in an upper section of a mould and a moulding operation is being carried out, the resin enters the entry passage so that the level of resin in the entry passage increases producing an increase in the pressure within the chamber, and the configuration of the entry passage is such that the cross-sectional area thereof reduces with height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Alan Roger Harper
  • Publication number: 20040169301
    Abstract: A molded resin laminate in which the dimensional accuracy and the strength are excellent at a bent portion and a method for producing the same are provided. One, in which an average diameter of small cells existing in a region on a side of a resin cover to be formed into a surface layer is smaller than an average diameter of large cells existing in a region on a side of a base resin component to be formed into a base layer, is used as a foamed resin component to be formed into an intermediate layer of the molded resin laminate. After the base resin component is molded with a molding machine, the base resin component is held on a male mold of a forming machine different from the molding machine described above. A sheet-shaped laminate, which is obtained by joining the foamed resin component and the resin cover, is arranged between the base resin component and a female mold. Subsequently, the forming machine is subjected to mold clamping.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kenichi Chujo, Kazushiro Wakabayashi, Hiroe Hashimoto
  • Publication number: 20040169302
    Abstract: A roof module comprises an outer shell and a foamed inner shell. The outer shell has a rim including an edge of cut and the inner shell extends as far as on the edge of cut. There is also proposed a method of producing such a roof module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Horst Bohm, Rainer Grimm
  • Publication number: 20040169303
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for the production of marble conglomerate slabs, starting from marble sand and/or granulates, additivated with binders, of the kind comprising a step of mixing the raw materials, a step of placing the mixture on a conveyor belt or on moulds, an under vacuum vibro-compaction step and a following step of polymerisation of the binder, further comprising a step of placing a protective sheet on said conveyor belt or on the base of said moulds, before pouring the mixture, and on said mixture, said protective sheet being comprised of hydrosoluble plastic material in such a way to coat the mixture above and at the bottom before the vibro-compaction step, said hydrosoluble material sheet beeing automatically removed, after the binder polymerisation step, from the water of the slab finishing workings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Franco Brutti
  • Publication number: 20040169304
    Abstract: The present invention provides an amorphous polymer article produced by hot compaction and a method of producing the same. The article is heated to a temperature and maintained at a pressure sufficient to cause softening of the polymer strands to sufficient a degree to allow bonding to adjacent fibres to take place without actually transforming the polymer into a liquid state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Ian M Ward, Peter J Hine
  • Publication number: 20040169305
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a method for producing heavy-duty yarn prepregs of glass fibers or aramide fibers or carbon fibers, wherein the fibers are soaked in a PTFE dispersion, subsequently conveyed through a nozzle and simultaneously pressure-impregnated, and wherein the air that is still situated between the individual filaments of the fibers is pressed out and the individual filaments are completely encased with PTFE and then dried. The objective of the invention consists of achieving an additional increase in the strength of the yarns, in particular, in the resistance to abrasion, with a method of this type.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Horst-Dieter Rector, Johannes Frenken
  • Publication number: 20040169306
    Abstract: Low moisture processed cellulose fiber pellets useful in the manufacture of cellulose fiber reinforced polymer products and materials, and an extruder-less process for forming such low moisture cellulose fiber pellets from wet processed cellulose fiber-based waste source materials. The cellulose fiber pellets include processed cellulose fibers and mixed plastics and/or inorganics such as minerals, clay, and the like, and have a moisture content of about 0.1 to 14% by weight. The extruder-less process includes the steps of drying, grinding and pelletizing in a manner capable of forming low moisture cellulose fiber pellets from wet processed cellulose fiber-based waste source materials having a moisture content of about 40-80% by weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: CYTECH FIBER PROCESSING SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Jerry W. Crews, Darren Traub, Murray Wishengrad
  • Publication number: 20040169307
    Abstract: A molded article is produced by a method of compression molding employing a specially shaped billet of thermoplastic material which is positioned at a predetermined location in a predetermined orientation with respect to the mold cavity surfaces of a mold part. In a preferred embodiment, the billet has a generally egg shape and is located adjacent a mold surface defining a small mold cavity region between two larger cavity regions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Seaquist Closures Foreign, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce M. Mueller, Ben Nejad, Dieter F. Lay
  • Publication number: 20040169308
    Abstract: An apparatus for producing a tube having a round cross-section over a major portion of its length and intermediate its ends having a flattened oval cross-section. The apparatus includes an extrusion head with an extrusion die through which the tube is extruded. A pinching device, which includes opposed pinching elements, is arranged at the extrusion head so as to be selectively moveable together to press on and pinch the tube to produce the oval cross-section of the tube. The rollers are selectively moveable apart to not pinch the tube to enable the tube to be extruded round, whereby a round tube with an intermediate flattened oval shaped portion is produced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Axiom Medical Inc.
    Inventors: J. Rae Walker, David S. Paul
  • Publication number: 20040169309
    Abstract: A method of forming an extrusion comprises passing a first, plastics material (12) through a first channel (104) in a die, passing a second, plastics material (14) through a second channel (112) in the die, and passing a third, plastics material (16) through a third channel (314) in the die. At least one of the materials is passed through a metering gap into contact with the other other materials to cause the at least one material to bond with the other materials as the materials pass through the die.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Richard S. Whelan, Robert G. Whelan
  • Publication number: 20040169310
    Abstract: The invention is aimed at a method for the manufacture of a longitudinal reinforcing element based on glass fibers which is intended to be incorporated in a profiled article based on thermoplastic elastomer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Sovoutri Societe Voultaine De Transformes Industriels
    Inventors: Corinne Tonon, Isabelle Caritey, Pierre-Alain Hutter
  • Publication number: 20040169311
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of making a tissue graft material. The method includes placing body tissue and a blood component in a chamber and extruding the body tissue and blood component from an opening in the chamber to form the tissue graft material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Peter M. Bonutti
  • Publication number: 20040169312
    Abstract: This invention is directed toward a sculpture, and the method of making the sculpture, utilizing a mold and manufacturing method in which the underside of the mold mimics the top of an ocean bottom, or other underwater environment, which can be painted to realistically depict different types of corals and fishes. This ocean bottom can be seen through clear, smooth-surfaced sections of the front, sides, and back of the sculpture, thereby creating an “aquarium view” of the ocean bottom. The invention also contains a fish-eye lens, which can be moved in several directions, thereby affording a user numerous views of the surfer, wave, and ocean bottom from different perspectives, or of other aquatic sportspeople engaging in various aquatic sports. The fish-eye lens can be mounted above the water, or at the waterline, thereby affording a view of the environment and actions both above and below the waterline.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Phil Dean Roberts, Robert Nealy, Robert Eubank
  • Publication number: 20040169313
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mold insert, the interior surface thereof having an average quadratic roughness of less than 10 nm. Said insert is covered with a protective layer exhibiting a Vickers hardness of more than 1000 HV, a thickness of between 0.2 and 5 &mgr;m, and an adhesive strength greater than 15 N. The invention also relates to a method for the production thereof. The invention is used for the production of ophthalmic lenses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Marie-Paule Ferrachat, Fabienne Hanriot, Alain Massee, Alain Coulon
  • Publication number: 20040169314
    Abstract: This invention refers to a method and a device for use in connection with the fabrication of multilayer products (8) such as composites and bonded multilayer sheet products, ect. by beans of the so-called “bagging technique,” to increase the compressive pressure (P) on the product being created beyond normal atmospheric pressure. In the bagging technique, which is used to join a plurality of different material layers with one another to form a unit via polymeric binder layers, atmospheric pressure is normally used to press the various objects together in that they are enclosed in a depressurized gas-impervious bag (9, 21) while the various layers are joined to form a unified product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Jan Vaara
  • Publication number: 20040169315
    Abstract: A method is described for the back-moulding of sheets (7) with thermoplastics, in particular of printed sheets to protect the decorated surface against scratching or detachment, in which a sheet (7) that is initially separated from the moulded-article wall is pressed against the moulded-article wall by the melt front (3).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Axel Kaminski, Roland Kunzel
  • Publication number: 20040169316
    Abstract: An encapsulation technique for leadless semiconductor packages entails: (a) attaching a plurality of dice (411) to die pads in cavities (41-45, 51-55) of a leadframe, the cavities arranged in a matrix of columns and rows; (b) electrically connecting the dice to a plurality of conducting portions (412-414) of the leadframe; and (c) longitudinally injecting molding material into the cavities along the columns via a plurality of longitudinal gates (46-49, 56-59) of the leadframe to package the dice in the cavities, the longitudinal gates situated between the cavities along the columns.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Siliconix Taiwan Ltd.
    Inventor: Frank Kuo
  • Publication number: 20040169317
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein relates to an improved process for making elastomeric polyisoprene articles. In particular, the process of the invention is a system which produces synthetic polyisoprene articles exhibiting tensile strength properties similar to that of solvent-based processes using natural rubber latex. The process comprises an accelerator composition at the pre-cure stage comprising a dithiocarbamate, a thiazole and a guanidine compound. In a preferred embodiment, the accelerator composition comprises zinc diethyldithiocarbamate (ZDEC), zinc 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (ZMBT) and diphenyl guanidine (DPG), in conjunction with a stabilizer, such as sodium caseinate. The invention also includes an elastomeric polyisoprene product made by the process, such as a surgeon's glove.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Shiping Wang, Yun-Siung Tony Yeh, Randell Wenig, Weicheong Wong
  • Publication number: 20040169318
    Abstract: The present invention provides a manufacturing method for manufacturing an outer tube of an injector having a barrel portion having an excellent circularity, while preventing generation of distortion or warp. A molten resin is injected into a cavity 17 of a metal mold 11 including: a fixed mold 13 having a hole portion 12 having a shape along the outer shape of the injector outer tube 1; a movable mold 14 closing the hole portion 12; and a core 15 inserted into the hole portion 12. A cylindrical vacant portion is provided communicating with a flange forming portion 20 of the hole portion 12. The molten resin R is injected from a sprue 22 and a runner 23 via a submarine gate 24 into the cylindrical vacant portion 21 and the molten resin R is introduced into the cavity 17. The cylindrical vacant portion 21 has a push pin 25. When the molten resin has become half-molten state, the resin in the cylindrical vacant portion is introduced with pressure into the cavity 17 by the push pin 25.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Atsushi Chiba
  • Publication number: 20040169319
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for producing molded fluoropolymer sweep elbows with straight ends while minimizing distortion of the fitting. The invention includes a mold for creating the sweep fittings of the invention. The mold includes a mold cavity block and internal coring. The internal coring includes two symmetrical cores that shut off at a 45° miter. Each of the symmetrical cores is divided into two parts, an outside sweep core and an inside sweep core. The outside sweep core and the inside sweep core are divided on a straight plane running the length of the core. The outside sweep core molds half of the straight lumen and the greater curvature at the outside sweep surface of the bend. The inside sweep core molds the other half of the straight bore and the lesser curvature of the inside or undercut portion of the bend.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Bradley Krantz, Carlos A. Cadavid, Dale J. Nowak
  • Publication number: 20040169320
    Abstract: A plastic injection mold assembly is disclosed in which an electric servo motor very precisely controls rotational speeds and amounts of torque applied to cores which extend into the mold cavities as the cores are withdrawn from plastic components being molded and simultaneously directs the linear distances which the cores travel during such withdrawal. A method of accomplishing the molding of plastic components in this manner is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Alan A. Petrucci, William Sigsworth
  • Publication number: 20040169321
    Abstract: A spacer 44 is inserted between an upper end face 44a of a contact column 40, and a lower face of a flange 14. The flange 14 is supported at plural positions by supporting columns 42. In heating a shoulder portion 16 to a hardening temperature, an electroconductive member 56 is placed close to the shoulder portion 16, and an AC current having a frequency which will cause mutual attraction between the current flowing through the elctroconductive member 56 and the current flowing through the shoulder portion 16 is applied to flow through the electroconductive member 56. The shoulder portion 16 having been heated to the hardening temperature is quenched by ejecting a liquid coolant through ejection outlets of a cooling jacket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Yoshimasa Tanaka, Katsumi Ohmiya, Yoshiki Seto, Yoichi Mori
  • Publication number: 20040169322
    Abstract: A suspension coil spring, when assembled to a suspension device, in which a spring reaction axis is positioned coincident with or sufficiently close to a load input axis, and the design and manufacture of coil springs are facilitated. Namely, A suspension coil spring (19) in a free state is formed so that a coil axis (AC) is bent in V-shape at bend point (PB) and the distance from the end turn center (CU) of the upper seating surface (38) to an imaginary coil axis (AI) is an upper inclination amount (VU), and the distance from the end turn center (CL) to the imaginary coil axis (AI) is a lower inclination amount (VL). When the suspension coil spring (10) is interposed between spring seats (22, 24) in the suspension device and compress along a strut axis, the spring reaction axis of the suspension coil spring (10) is inclined and offset with respect to the imaginary coil axis (AI) according to the inclination amounts (VU, VL).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Junji Ogura, Yukihiro Sugimoto, Masahiko Shimizu
  • Publication number: 20040169323
    Abstract: A MacPherson strut assembly is provided that has a hydraulic cylinder with a fluid chamber. A piston is arranged in the chamber, and a rod extends from the piston. A lower spring seat is supported on the hydraulic cylinder, and an upper spring seat is supported on the rod. A coil spring is arranged between the spring seats to produce a desired spring loading. In one embodiment, a compliant isolator having a sloped profile is arranged on the lower spring seat to produce an uneven spring loading. In another embodiment, a spring seat isolator may include materials of a different stiffness to produce uneven spring loading. An isolator may also be used between coils of the spring so that the compression on one side of the spring is limited more that the opposite side to produce uneven loading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Marlon V. Bottene, Joseph A. Fader, Steven J. Doyle, Monte G. Williams, Steven G. Saieg, George N. Lasic, Thomas R. King
  • Publication number: 20040169324
    Abstract: A suspension assembly is provided that includes a strut connected between a lower control arm and a portion of the vehicle frame or body. This strut includes a hydraulic cylinder and rod disposed therein. A first spring seat is arranged on the hydraulic cylinder, and a second spring seat is arranged on the rod spaced from the other spring seat. A spring is arranged between the spring seats to provide a desired suspension load characteristic. At least one of the spring seats extends circumferentially about its connection to either the rod or hydraulic cylinder less than 360°. Since the spring engages the spring seat less than 360°, a non-uniform force is produced that generates a moment in a direction opposite the moment created by the suspension geometry. In this manner, the friction force at the bearing surface is minimized or eliminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Marlon V. Bottene, joseph A. Fader, Steven J. Doyle,JR., Monte G. Williams, Steven G. Saieg, George N. Lasic, Thomas R. King
  • Publication number: 20040169325
    Abstract: A film supply system for use in an imager to separate sheets of photosensitive media from a film cartridge and deliver individual sheet of the photosensitive media to a film transport system. The film supply system comprises: a frame for attachment of the film supply system within the imager; a heel plate pivotably attached to the frame and actuatable by a motor; and a cup plate pivotably attached to the heel plate, the cup plate including at least one suction cup for selectively engaging a sheet of the photosensitive media.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Brian D. Nelson
  • Publication number: 20040169326
    Abstract: A sheet feeding device includes a sheet feeding roller and a holder body. A separation pad is arranged on an upstream side, in a feeding direction of a recording medium, within a concave portion of a top surface side of the holder body facing a surface of the sheet feeding roller. On a downstream side of the concave portion adjacent to the separation pad, a low friction member is arranged in which at least a surface layer is formed of a material with a small coefficient of friction. Furthermore, a gap formation portion is formed in a surface of the concave portion where the low friction member is arranged and made higher than a surface where the separation pad is arranged. Additionally, by making the separation pad and the low friction member with the same thickness, when arranged in the concave portion, the surface of the low friction member is formed higher than the surface of the separation pad by the height of the gap formation portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: BROTHER KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nakano, Takuya Yamaguchi
  • Publication number: 20040169327
    Abstract: A media supply is provided for use in an imaging device having an entry port. The media supply has a housing defining a media storage area to hold media, an opening to receive media, and a device engagement surface shaped for insertion into the entry port A media enclosure is mounted to the housing and is movable between an open position wherein the media storage area can be accessed through the opening and a closed position blocking the opening. Wherein the media storage area, media enclosure, and engagement surface are arranged so that the media enclosure can be moved between the closed position and the open position when the engagement surface is inserted into the entry port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Eastman Kodak Company
    Inventors: Samuel F. Swayze, David R. Gotham, Christopher J. Lundgren
  • Publication number: 20040169328
    Abstract: A high capacity media apparatus and method includes, in a high capacity media device holding large quantities of media, according to one embodiment, a unitary deformable media holder with a bottom, a top, and sides, constructed to separate at preselected locations. A movable support base is provided in the media holder. A lifting device is provided in the high capacity media device and conformed to apply lifting force to the movable support base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Srinivas Guddanti, Chet M. Butikofer, Robert Matthew Sesek
  • Publication number: 20040169329
    Abstract: A sheet transport apparatus which includes a sheet transport path for transporting a sheet, and a regulation member. The regulation member is provided in the sheet transport path, and is brought into contact with a swelling portion occurring on a surface of an envelope in the event that the envelope is transported as the sheet, such that the swelling portion can be pressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinsuke Kobayashi, Michihito Yamazaki, Yasuzumi Taba
  • Publication number: 20040169330
    Abstract: An apparatus for transporting a sheet comprising: a first roller; a second roller; and an assembly for mounting the second roller for movement between a position spaced from the first roller and a position engaging the first roller for transporting a sheet; wherein the second roller has first and second ends, and wherein the assembly includes independently spring loaded link assemblies respectively on the first and second ends of the second roller that ensure that the second roller will always close down on both sides of the first roller with uniform pressure on both sides.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Brian D. Nelson, Troy A. Giese
  • Publication number: 20040169331
    Abstract: A gambling game in which the result is obtained by a player selecting from a number of separate results each of which can have two states, the correct states of some or all of the results. The game may be played in association with another game, such as Keno or lotto or can be played in its own right. The states may be whether or not a number is odd or even, whether a binary number is one or zero or whether a coin shows a head or a tail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Christopher Russell Byrne
  • Publication number: 20040169332
    Abstract: A card shuffling device includes a top surface, a card receiving area for receiving an initial set of playing cards, a randomizing system for randomizing the initial set of playing cards, a collection surface in a card collection area for receiving randomized playing cards, the collection surface receiving cards positioned so that all cards collected are below the top surface of the device, and an elevator for raising the collection surface so that at least some randomized cards are elevated above the top surface of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Attila Grauzer, Feraidoon Bourbour, Troy D. Nelson, Paul K. Scheper, James B. Stasson, Ronald R. Swanson
  • Publication number: 20040169333
    Abstract: A new, unique type of Electoral College Board Game, that can be played by two to four players, designed to educate players as to the complexities involved in the electoral college system. The game board is divided into quadrants and home territories, and players compete to control electoral votes for a state. The object of the game is to accumulate enough electoral votes to win the election, or if a player realizes that no participant will be able to accumulate enough votes, then to win the greatest number of states regardless of the electoral vote of the state. This game is unique in the way it helps educate about the disparate relationship between popular votes and electoral votes when compared by state. The game helps educate about the “winner take all” concept of electoral voting, and provides entertainment, while allowing players to use their mathematical skills and analytical abilities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Steven Alan Wolkis, Philip Wolkis, Edward Martin Wolkis
  • Publication number: 20040169334
    Abstract: A system for a dart-based golf game on an electronic dart game machine has been developed that includes at least one electronic dart board having distinct scoring segments, a CPU electrically connected to the electronic dart board, and a video display electrically connected to the CPU. The CPU displays game mode graphics on the video display, including a golf course hole graphic having a virtual ball and a hole, and a power meter having a moving element. The CPU correlates an instantaneous movement of said moving element at an instant of the dart contact with a movement of the virtual ball on the golf course hole graphic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: John R. Martin, Ryan C. Jones, Patrick G. Rice, Christopher M. Walker, Timothy J. Ward
  • Publication number: 20040169335
    Abstract: A unitary sleeve lip seal can be used to provide permanently lubricated sealed bearings in severe service conditions such as the track pins of track-driven vehicles and agricultural equipment. The seal has a labyrinthine exclusion path and multiple dust lips contacting the sleeve in addition to the main sealing lip. A garter spring encircling the main sealing lip may enable the seal to operate at moderately elevated pressures. The sleeve has a radial flange at the outermost end. Elastomeric lips extend between the sleeve flange and a faceplate that terminates the outside end of the seal housing. The seal is packed with water-resistant grease and can, when installed in association with grease-packed bearings can create a permanently lubricated bearing/shaft assembly that requires no re-greasing. Resilient coatings both protect the sleeve and case and also improve leak resistance, especially when the seal is retrofitted onto shafts that have been damaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Michael R. Oldenburg
  • Publication number: 20040169336
    Abstract: A spacing mechanism is provided for locating at least one rotatable component relative to a stationary component of a mechanical seal. The spacing mechanism is configured to automatically disengage from the rotatable seal component, and/or its associated hardware, upon rotation of the rotatable seal component. The spacing mechanism may be configured to axially and/or radially locate one or more rotatable components relative to one or more stationary components and may be configured to automatically disengage from the rotatable seal component by the rotation of the rotatable seal component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: A.W. Chesterton Company
    Inventors: Henri V. Azibert, Wayne E. Spritz
  • Publication number: 20040169337
    Abstract: Herein disclosed is a shaft sealing apparatus which comprises a vacuum casing formed with a vacuum chamber, a driving shaft having an outer cylindrical surface and movably extending in the vacuum chamber of the vacuum casing, and a sealing ring in the form of an annular ring shape and including a sealing lip held in contact with the outer cylindrical surface of the driving shaft, an annular spring member operative to impart a force to the sealing lip to ensure that the sealing lip is held in tight contact with the outer cylindrical surface of the driving shaft, and a peripheral portion radially outwardly extending from the sealing lip, in which the outer cylindrical surface of the driving shaft is smaller in surface roughness Ra than 0.1 (&mgr;m).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Teijin Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tetsuya Watanabe, Hiroki Mori, Chohei Okuno
  • Publication number: 20040169338
    Abstract: A sealing ring wherein both the first and the second sealing lip are well protected from mechanical damage/destruction. The relatively more sensitive first sealing lip is particularly well protected and, in particular, is protected from exposure to service life-reducing contaminants. Furthermore, the production of the sealing lip is simple and economical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Gunter Hintenlang, Szaboles Sebok, Jean Philippe Marchal
  • Publication number: 20040169339
    Abstract: A sealing ring for sealing a machine element includes a stiffening ring of a hard material, a supporting ring having a radial flange positioned adjacent a radial surface of the machine element and a sealing sleeve of an elastomer material connected to the stiffening ring. The sealing sleeve includes a sealing lip for sealing against the radial surface of the machine element so as to create a sealed-off space. The sealing sleeve also incldes an outer axial leg and a radial leg connecting the sealing lip to the outer axial leg. The outer axial leg includes a first end proximate to the sealed-off space and the sealing sleeve is connected to the stiffening ring at the first end. In addition, a sealing arrangement including two such sealing rings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 3, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Applicant: Carl Freudenberg KG
    Inventors: Eberhard Bock, Peter Schreiner, Armin Barth, Rolf Vogt
  • Publication number: 20040169340
    Abstract: A sealed flange includes a seal (203 or 901) and a flange (201 or 801). The outer perimeter of a flange (201 or 801) has tabs (303 or 803) interspaced with notches (601 or 805). The outer perimeter of a seal (203 or 901) has spacers (305 or 903) interspersed with gaps (501 or 909). When the seal (203 or 901) is disposed along the outer perimeter of the flange (201 or 801), the tabs (303 or 803) fit in the gaps (501 or 909) of the seal (203 or 901) while the spacers (305 or 903) fit in the notches (601 or 805) of the flange (201 or 801). The outer perimeter of the sealed flange comprises the outermost edges of the tabs (303 or 803) of the flange (201 or 801) and the outmost edges of the spacers (305 or 903) of the seal (203 or 901).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Philip D. Keeley, John A. Serio
  • Publication number: 20040169341
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a seal for a cable entry, pipe penetration or the like formed of two halves. The seal is to be received in a sleeve or the like and forms a central opening for a cable (7), pipe or the like when the seal halves are brought together. The outer diameter of the seal is variable to be adapted to different mounting dimensions. To adapt the outer diameter of the seal to the mounting dimension of the sleeve, a number of outer peeling sheets (5) are arranged on the outside of the seal. The sheets (5) adhere to each other but may be peeled off by hand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Joakim Hellkvist
  • Publication number: 20040169342
    Abstract: The invention has been developed to solve the drawbacks of the conventional chuck construction, and it is an object of the invention to provide a compact chuck construction, by omitting the axial movement parts, which are inevitable in the conventional chuck construction. A chuck body 10 comprising an axially movable plunger 30 and a jaw 20, in which said jaw 20 having master jaw body 24 obliquely arranged with respect to the axis, said plunger 30 having a bush 41 which act as a wedge, and a driving means 50 at the rear end of the master jaw body 24, said wedge means 40 having a structure of canceling a moment applied to the jaw 20 as a result of clamping and the driving means 50 providing a reactant force to the master jaw body 24 for canceling drawing force applied to the plunger 30.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventors: Tamio Nishimiya, Satoshi Isohisa, Naoyuki Masatsugu, Toshihito Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20040169343
    Abstract: A snowboard binding is provided having a base to accommodate the boot of the user and keep it in a fixed position on the base; and a highback. The highback is adapted to allow the leg of a user to articulate through a range of motion. Attached to the highback is a system of springs or elastic members for returning the leg of the user to a neutral position relative to the board in the absence of an applied counterforce. For example, the highback can be attached to the base in such a manner as to allow the highback to articulate in a range extending from a forward position to a neutral position, and optionally to a rearward position, the neutral position being disposed between the forward position and any rearward position. In this binding, a tensioning member is affixed to the highback in such a manner as to resist articulation of the highback to the forward or the rearward position, and to apply a force to the highback to return it to the neutral position in the absence of an applied counterforce.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Raymond D. Fougere
  • Publication number: 20040169344
    Abstract: According to the invention, the variability of a mobile device (1), comprising a support frame (10), at least one function unit (for example, 31) in modular form fixed thereto and at least one connecting means (100), may be increased, whereby the support frame (10) is embodied as a bar, the at least one module (20, 30, 40, 50, 200) in the form of a shell may be displaced above the support frame (10) along the longitudinal axis (L) thereof and comprises at least one function unit (for example, 31) and is fixed in an exchangeable manner by means of at least one connecting means (100),
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2004
    Publication date: September 2, 2004
    Inventor: Hubert Seeberger