Patents Issued in October 7, 2004
  • Publication number: 20040195037
    Abstract: A power steering system and a method of charging the power steering system with hydraulic fluid are provided. Hydraulic fluid is selectively supplied to hydraulic chambers of a power cylinder via oil passages from a reversible pump, according to a steering torque. In addition, a bypass passage is provided between oil passages. A normally open switching valve is provided in the bypass passage. When the system is assembled, the hydraulic fluid is supplied from an oil reservoir via the switching valve or the reversible pump, and circulated in the hydraulic circuit. The air in the hydraulic circuit is discharged via the switching valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: HITACHI UNISIA AUTOMOTIVE, LTD.
    Inventors: Mizuo Otaki, Masakazu Kurata
  • Publication number: 20040195038
    Abstract: A flow controlling apparatus to control flow rate of working fluid discharged from pump apparatus to a power steering apparatus including a electric variable throttle, a solenoid mechanism and a spool. The solenoid mechanism varies opening degree of the electric variable throttle based on a electric signal from electric controller. The spool slides in accordance with the differential pressure of the variable throttle due to increase of flow rate of working fluid discharged from pump apparatus so as to return excess working fluid to bypass passage connecting to a suction port of pump apparatus. The flow controlling apparatus further comprising means for increase flow rate of bypass flow to bypass passage when rotating speed of the pump apparatus exceed predetermined value.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: TOYODA KOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Ikeda, Nobuyuki Kawabata
  • Publication number: 20040195039
    Abstract: A speaker that is designed to substantially eliminate wobble of the voice coil during operation, and thus remove that source of distortion and early failure of the speaker. This is accomplished with the creation of triangular ring that extends upward from the top edge of the voice coil bobbin with that ring mating with a flat diaphragm at a right angle directly above the top edge of the bobbin. The outer edge of the diaphragm connects to the inner edge of the surround at the point where a sloping side of the “triangle” is also connected and slopes down to the top edge of the bobbin where the opposite end is connected. The outer portion of the diaphragm provides the third side of the triangle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Joseph Yaacoub Sahyoun
  • Publication number: 20040195040
    Abstract: An air induction system includes a duct that defines a passage for airflow to the engine. The duct is substantially clear of obstructions to improve airflow that in turn provides improved engine performance. A speaker generates sounds to provide a desirable engine sound. A controller drives the speaker to generate desired tones and sounds responsive to engine operation. The sounds generated by the speaker enhance, improve and provide desirable and proportional acoustic performance more reflective of the improved engine performance provided by the improved airflow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Manish Vaishya, John R. Mammarella, Gregory C. Langford, David Maclay
  • Publication number: 20040195041
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in fall restraint anchoring of workers on an elevated location includes an upstanding post with at least one attachment loop at an upper end. The post is formed by plurality of coaxial cylindrical tubes each mounted as a sliding fit inside the next with each insert tube having a longitudinal groove co-operating with a projecting set screw on the outer tube so as to prevent relative rotation and to locate the limits of movement for aligning holes in the tubes for a locking pin. A jib portion includes a collar located on the smallest tube with a lower edge sitting on the upper edge of the next tube and extends upwardly and outwardly to a tether which extends to the attachment loop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Jan Vetesnik
  • Publication number: 20040195042
    Abstract: The present invention consists of an improved hunting stand to be releasably attached to the rear rack area above the rear axle of a factory equipped ATV. The improved hunting stand or platform may be raised from its traveling position just behind the ATV operator to a desired hunting height. The stand may be raised manually by the hunter or automatically through some form of electronic or hydraulic scissor lift mechanism. Retractable outriggers extend from the base of the scissor lift mechanism to rest on the ground and provide additional stability when the stand is used on uneven terrain. Finally, the improved hunting stand includes dry boxes for ammunition storage; rifle supports for steadying a hunter's aim and a foldable or swivel seat to comfortably support the hunter during hunting activities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Kenneth B. Smith
  • Publication number: 20040195043
    Abstract: The invention relates to a collapsible ladder (1) having hollow ladder bars (2, 3) and ladder pins (4). The bars are divided into sections, which are telescopically inserted into each other and which in pairs at their top are connected to each other via a ladder pin, ladder sections, positioned above each other, being formed. The ends of the ladder pins (4) each houses its retaining mechanism (6), which via a locking pin (8) is locked against the lower portion of a ladder section, positioned above, in a separated or in a activated position of two such sections, arranged after each other, and which is releasable in order to allow an insertion of said ladder section, positioned above.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Kjell Johansson
  • Publication number: 20040195044
    Abstract: A breather apparatus for a power train of vehicle is presented, which has a motor and a gear box connected to the motor, including a common case wall, first and second breather paths formed within the common case wall and a third breather path provided for communicating with both the first and second breather paths at an upper portion of the common case wall, and further communicating with the atmosphere. The apparatus has a feature that a blocking device is provided so that the lubricant coming through the second breather path can be prevented from entering the first breather path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: HONDA GIKEN KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Kimura, Seiichi Mogi, Kenji Morizumi, Takahiro Tsutsui
  • Publication number: 20040195045
    Abstract: A system for mechanically lowering a load from an elevated position to a lower position in a relatively slow and controlled manner using only gravity and frictional forces. The system includes a vertically aligned glide rod, a glide collar that moves longitudinally over the glide rod, two vertically mounted friction rods mounted on opposite sides of the glide rod, a friction collar that moves longitudinally along each friction rod, and a support platform coupled to each friction collar and to the glide collar. The glide rod includes spiral vane along its entire length upon which the glide collar rides when a load is placed on the support platform, allowing the support platform to descend at a safe speed via gravity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: William H. Richey, John Bolding
  • Publication number: 20040195046
    Abstract: In an escalator having a high-speed inclined portion escalator, a shape for of an auxiliary track in a speed-changing region for steps is determined by finding a positional relationship between step link roller shafts of at least one of the steps and an adjacent step from a step speed profile representing a speed of the step link roller shafts relative to as a function of time. A The shape for of a riser is determined such that the riser aligns with a relative movement locus of the adjacent step by finding a relative positional relationship between the step and the adjacent step from the step speed profile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Manabu Ogura, Takashi Yumura, Yasumasa Haruta, Tatsuya Yoshikawa, Shinji Nagaya, Joichi Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20040195047
    Abstract: An elevator without the provision of mechanical room is disclosed. A drive motor can be provided in one of rear side top, underside, and either side of the car. The invention has the following advantages. The vibration of inner car is reduced within an acceptable level for bringing a degree of comfort to passengers in the inner car while hoisting or lowering. The hoist ropes are prevented from slipping when a load of the car changes suddenly as in a case that many persons steps in or out of the car in a short period of time. An alignment of a bottom of the car with each of a plurality of levels is made possible when the elevator is stopped at each level. A manual escape device is provided for assisting passengers to escape in case of emergency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Chiu Nan Wang
  • Publication number: 20040195048
    Abstract: A position detecting device for detecting the position of an object (12) movable along a predetermined path of movement, comprising a signal transmission medium (13) extending along the path of movement, a signal generator (15) movable together with said movable object (12), by means of which a signal can be coupled into the signal transmission medium (13), at least one signal receiver (29, 33) at an extraction location in an end portion of said path of movement, a signal propagation time measuring means (35, 37) adapted to determine the signal propagation time between coupling location and extraction location (45), wherein the signal generator (15) is designed to deliver a periodically repeating signal pulse sequence (FIG.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Uwe Schonauer, Peter L. Herkel
  • Publication number: 20040195049
    Abstract: An elevator cab constructed in-situ from elongated channel shaped pans. The pans have their ends bolted to steel alignment angles and their flanges bolted to abutting flanges of adjacent pans. The pans and alignment angles can be bolted together with bolts and nuts of a common size and preferably are arranged to rotationally interlock with the bolts to simplify tightening of the nuts and enable the cab to be conveniently assembled even in low clearance hoistways. Light fixtures are nested in associated pans forming the cab top and are protected by sheet metal panels secured to the flanges of such pans. An emergency exit door on a top panel has a unique safety switch interlock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Alexander Stobo, Donald E. Cation, Danny Duarte, Paul Norman Crews, Brian D. Sheldrick, Everett W. Roberts, Darryl J. Greenaway, David E. Kairis, David L. Morey
  • Publication number: 20040195050
    Abstract: In a method for determining the state of a motor vehicle brake, particularly the brake-lining state or the brake-lining thickness, a temperature sensor is arranged in the brake lining of the motor vehicle brake, and the temperature detected by the sensor is used to determine the brake state. In addition to a first temperature value, at least one second temperature value detected after the first temperature value and the time duration between the detection time points of the two temperature values are employed. The brake state is determined based on an evaluation of a time profile of temperature values sensed by said sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Georg Frentz, Matthias Leber
  • Publication number: 20040195051
    Abstract: A vehicle brake assembly includes a multi-component lever assembly. The lever assembly includes a push rod receiving insert received into a push rod receiving insert opening. The multi-component lever assembly provides for alternate final configurations during the final assembly stages of the brake assembly. The operating shaft is assembled into the brake housing through a housing opening which is closed off by a closing plate. The push rod receiving insert received is then passed through a push rod opening and into the push rod receiving insert opening until locked in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Carl Edward Heinlein
  • Publication number: 20040195052
    Abstract: The invention relates to a disc brake (10) having two brake shoes (12, 14), which for generating a clamping force (A, A′) are pressable against both sides of a brake disc (16), and having an actuator device (26) for actuating at least one of the brake shoes (12, 14). The disc brake (10) has a detection device, which detects the coming-into-abutment of at least one of the brake shoes (12, 14) against the brake disc (16) and during the coming-into-abutment adopts a characteristic state. This discrete state may be a switching state electrically evaluable for open- or closed-loop control purposes and may be used for open- or closed-loop control of a brake system comprising the disc brake (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Leo Gilles
  • Publication number: 20040195053
    Abstract: A heat shield (10) for a brake piston (12) comprises a ring (14) made of a thermal insulating material. The ring (14) includes a radially inner circumferential wall (20), a radially outer circumferential wall (22), and at one axial end (24), a planar annular shield surface (26) that extends between the inner wall (20) and outer wall (22). A bead (28) extends radially inward from an inside surface of wall (20). The bead (28) sits within a groove (30) formed about the outer circumferential wall (16) of the piston (12) to effectively couple the ring (14) to the piston (12). When so coupled, the planar annular shield surface (26) is co-planar with an annular piston surface (52) formed at an open end (18) of the piston (12).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Stan Nowak, Dorota H. Kieronska, Vin C. Morley
  • Publication number: 20040195054
    Abstract: A disc brake caliper housing having inboard and outboard walls each connected by a corner to a bridge. A piston is slidably mounted in a bore on one wall. At least one corner is comprised of discrete ribs. The ribs permit easy removal of bridge material in the casting process to create concavities of predetermined shape for subsequent machining, part handling, and component mounting as well as light weight with high bending stiffness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Robert Charles Thomas
  • Publication number: 20040195055
    Abstract: A disc brake (10) is described, having two brake shoes (12, 14), which for generating a clamping force (A, A′) are pressable against both sides of a brake disc (16), and an actuator device (26) for actuating at least one of the brake shoes (12, 14). The disc brake comprises a force transducer (42) e.g. in the form of a force sensor, which is disposed in a first force transmission path (C) between the actuator device (26) and at least one of the brake shoes (12, 14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Leo Gilles
  • Publication number: 20040195056
    Abstract: A disc brake assembly comprises an anchor bracket (12), a brake shoe (10) which carries a friction lining (16), the shoe being slidably supported by the anchor bracket (12). The assembly includes a retraction mechanism which is adapted to retract the shoe from the disc when the brake is released. The mechanism comprises at least one pin (24) secured to either a backing plate (14) or the anchor bracket and a spring clip (26) fixed relative to the pin which acts between the pin and the other one of the anchor bracket or the backing plate. Deformation of the spring clip as the shoe is moved towards the disc providing a returning force to pull the friction lining away from the disc when the brake is released.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Glynn Ashman, Grahame Hickin
  • Publication number: 20040195057
    Abstract: One of brake pads 5 is pressed against the disc rotor D by a piston of a caliper 3 which is floatably supported on the carrier 2, and in reaction thereto, the other brake pad 5 is pressed against the disc rotor D by a claw portion 14 on the caliper 3, thereby producing a braking force. During brake release, the spring force of a return spring 22 separates the brake pad 5 from the disc rotor D. A positioning convex portion 27 is provided on the carrier 2 in a standing position adjacent to the return spring 22, and serves to restrict the sideward movement of the distal end portion of the return spring 22. Thus displacement and deformation of the return spring can be prevented, and its functions can be maintained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Tokico Ltd.
    Inventors: Harumi Ooshima, Jun Watanabe, Junichi Hashimoto
  • Publication number: 20040195058
    Abstract: A braking apparatus for a motor vehicle comprises a main braking device for applying braking force to wheels of the motor vehicle in response to a press stroke of a brake pedal, and a parking brake device operatively connected to the main braking device for applying parking brake force from an electric motor to the wheels at parking the motor vehicle, wherein a through-hole is provided in a housing of the parking brake device, through which a machine tool will be inserted to manually rotate the electric motor when the electric motor becomes out of order after the parking brake force is applied to the wheels, and a breathing pipe is detachably connected at its one end to the through-hole and terminated at its other end at a place, for example, a passenger room, where there are little extraneous material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: ASMO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Eiji Ina, Hidetoshi Suzuki, Atsushi Katou
  • Publication number: 20040195059
    Abstract: A mounting system for disc brake rotors. Drive pins are mounted to a wheel hub. Alignment bushings having outer flanges defining a channel are slidably held in slots in a disc brake rotor, with the rotor engaging the bushing channel. The alignment bushings are each mounted on a drive pin inserted through a hole in the alignment bushing. Drag rings prevent unwanted movement between the alignment bushings and the drive pins. The drag rings can be mounted in grooves in the alignment bushings or, alternatively, in grooves on the drive pins. Retaining rings on the drive pins prevent the bushings from coming off of the drive pins.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Mark Williams Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark Williams
  • Publication number: 20040195060
    Abstract: A method for producing a tubular spring (12) in the form of a cylindrical hollow body, especially for pre-tensioning a piezoelectric actuator element (2) of an actuator unit (1) of a fuel injector comprises the step of providing a thin-walled, solid-drawn steel tube with a plurality of regularly arranged longish recesses (14) by means of laser cutting. Thus, an actuator unit (1) comprises a piezoelectric actuator element (2) which is arranged in a thin-walled cylindrical hollow body, wherein the hollow body being elastically embodied and pre-tensioning the actuator element (2). Furthermore, the hollow body is a solid-drawn steel tube which is provided with a plurality of longish recesses (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Dejan Jovovic, Gunter Lewentz, Andreas Voigt, Claus Zumstrull
  • Publication number: 20040195061
    Abstract: The invention disclosed is a magnetorheological fluid device offering vibration isolation and broad modulation range damping in a high load carrying and compact form. A cylindrically shaped flexure structure has a bottom cap attached to one end and a top cap attached to the other end. A piston comprising a toroidal displacement body, a central shaft, and intermediate connecting plate, attaches to the top cap. A fluid chamber surrounding and generally conforming to the shape of the toroidal displacement body, is attached to the bottom cap. Two bellows attaching between the piston connecting plate and top and bottom portions of the fluid chamber complete an enclosed volume around the toroidal displacement body and allow frictionless motion of the toroidal displacement body relative to the fluid chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Shawn P. Kelso, Jason E. Lindler
  • Publication number: 20040195062
    Abstract: A magnetorheological damper system comprising a reservoir in communication with a damper. The damper comprises a damper cylinder defining a damper chamber, wherein the damper chamber contains a magnetorheological fluid and a movable damper piston. The damper piston comprises at least two coil windings on the outer surface of the damper piston, wherein the damper piston is capable of generating a magnetic field between the damper piston and a wall of the damper cylinder. The reservoir comprises a reservoir cylinder defining a passageway, wherein the reservoir includes a magnetorheological electromagnet capable of generating a magnetic field between the magnetorheological piston and a wall of the passageway. The combination of the an MR reservoir and MR damper leads to a damping system capable of damping a wide range of extreme forces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Rod Millen Special Vehicles, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric N. Anderfaas, Dean Banks
  • Publication number: 20040195063
    Abstract: A fluid coupled speed retarder generating a restraining torque on a vehicule wheel system comprises a restraining shaft (50) coupled by a viscous fluid to a wheel (32) and axle (54) system through a coupling (30) which includes an impeller (48) with radial vanes (77) connected to the restraining shaft and a housing (44) with further radial vanes (46), the housing connected for rotation with the wheel (34). A braking force is developed upon demand by a selective locking of the restraining shaft (50) from motion, the relative motion between the impeller and housing in the viscous coupling generating the barking force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: John C Simonis, James E Johnson, Joseph E Crouch
  • Publication number: 20040195064
    Abstract: A system is disclosed for the absorption of an impact, that system comprises a blow molded thermoplastic energy absorbing member. The blow molded thermoplastic energy absorbing member provides opposing first and second walls defining a hollow space; according to one embodiment, a plurality of fused and unfused recessed ribs integrally molded between the first and second walls. The fused recessed ribs have a fused recessed rib end. The fused recessed rib ends are integrally fused to either opposite recessed rib ends or the facing opposite wall at a welded surface such that the height of the recessed ribs from the first wall to the welded surface is about approximately 15.0 to 45.0 mm. The recessed ribs are, according to one embodiment, connected by a plurality of straight interlocking ribs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Teruo Tamada, Hiroo Inul, Kiyotaka Urakawa, Kenji Ishii, Tadatoshi Tanji
  • Publication number: 20040195065
    Abstract: A viscous damper for a machinery mount having a damping member disposed intermediate a top support engageable with at least a portion of a load and a bottom plate disposed beneath the support and spaced therefrom to thereby decrease or deaden vibrations. The damper includes a receptacle for vertical disposition, which is closed at the bottom and opened at the top, and is adaptable for containing a viscous fluid. A plunger of smaller lateral dimensions is arranged concentrically and co-axially within the receptacle, and depends downwardly from the horizontally disposed support, and is of such a longitudinal dimension as to be spaced from the closed bottom of the receptacle so as to be submerged partially in the viscous fluid and is therefore free to move vertically. A perforated plate is affixed at the bottom of the plunger, and provides fluid communication between the receptacle and the plunger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Jerry D. Folkens, Harold E. Reinke, Steven M. Veroeven, Joseph L. Bastl
  • Publication number: 20040195066
    Abstract: A device for servicing an aircraft on the ground includes a rolling support and a cable or hose assembly having a first end for connection to a ground unit and an opposite second end for connection to the aircraft. A reel is rotatably mounted on the rolling support on which the cable or hose assembly is wound, and from which the cable or hose assembly can be unwound from the first end. A flight of stairs is also mounted on the rolling support.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Michael Widegren
  • Publication number: 20040195067
    Abstract: A friction clutch includes a housing arrangement connectable to a drive element for rotation in common about an axis of rotation, a plurality of first friction disks connected to the housing arrangement such that the first friction disks are fixed with respect to rotation and axially movable relative to the housing arrangement, a hub rotatable about the axis of rotation relative to the housing arrangement and having a plurality of radially outward-projecting connection arms, a plurality of second friction disks defining engagement opening therein being closed on radial inner sides thereof, wherein the connection arms of the hub engage the engagement openings of the second friction disks such that the second friction disks are fixed with respect to rotation and axially movable relative to the hub, and a force-exerting arrangement exerting a force for urging the first friction elements and the second friction elements into contact with each other
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 20, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Sachs Race Engineering GmbH
    Inventors: Horst Friedrich, Werner Selzam, Klaus-Peter Oberle, Michael Istschenko
  • Publication number: 20040195068
    Abstract: A clutch arrangement, especially for a motor vehicle, comprises a housing arrangement which can be filled with fluid; at least one first friction element connected to the housing arrangement for rotation in common around an axis of rotation; and at least one second friction element connected to a power takeoff element for rotation in common around the axis of rotation (A), which second element can be brought into contact with at least one first friction element to produce a frictional interaction. The at least one first friction element or the at least one second friction element has a friction lining carrier which carries a friction lining arrangement on each frictionally active axial side of the friction element. At least in the case of one friction element with a friction lining carrier carrying a friction lining arrangement an arrangement of fluid transport surfaces is provided to produce a circulation of fluid which flows around at least certain areas of the friction elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: ZF Sachs AG
    Inventor: Jorg Sudau
  • Publication number: 20040195069
    Abstract: A power take off unit for a motor vehicle equipped with a standard transmission is clutched using compressed air available on the vehicle. Available air pressure is monitored and a clutch interlock implemented through the vehicle electrical control system is made responsive thereto to prevent engagement of the clutch if the load is too heavy for the available air pressure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Joseph A. Bell, Jay E. Bissontz
  • Publication number: 20040195070
    Abstract: A disk spring assembly including a flat disk between two angled plates is used in an automatic transmission clutch application. The inner peripheral edge and the outer peripheral edge of the disk are deflected in opposite directions relative to each other by the angled plates. The maximum deflection of the disk is defined by the angled plates. The stiffness of the disk increases monotonically with the deflection of the disk resulting in smooth clutch application.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Chi-Kuan Kao, Anthony L. Smith, Andrew Leslie Bartos, Patrick Benedict Usoro
  • Publication number: 20040195071
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for an improved brake shift interlock system which reduces solenoid noise created by vehicle vibrations and solenoid activation. The brake shift interlock system includes a park position switch, a brake sensor, and a control circuit. The method includes the sensing of the park position switch and the brake sensor and generating a pulse width modulated control signal having a varying duty cycle for driving the solenoid when predetermined conditions of the park position switch and brake sensor are sensed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Boris L. Khaykin, Carrie Porter, Dave John Rutkowski, Keri Przebienda, Thomas Dudley Belanger
  • Publication number: 20040195072
    Abstract: A pallet and conveyor system for loading pallets onto a transport vehicle is described. The conveyor system has a first and a second conveyor which positions the pallets between the conveyors and maintains the pallets in upright orientation. The conveyor defines an upper conveyance track and a lower conveyance track which may be placed on the bed of a transport truck. The pallets maintained in the conveyor system are easily loadable on the truck and can be captured without operator lifting by the conveyor system. The pallets may be forked from any direction and provide a stabilization device for maintaining the cargo within the pallets.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Jerry L. Warlow, Boris Fridman
  • Publication number: 20040195073
    Abstract: Assembly and method for collecting together different goods to form a pack and to pack these in an outer packaging. Streams of goods are always fed to a collection conveyor with feed conveyors. Each stream consists of the same goods and these are buffered at the discharge end of the feed conveyor. At a suitable point in time these are placed on the collection conveyor using an ejection device. The collection conveyor consists of a number of track compartments that move past the conveyor. A group of goods placed one after the other is arranged in each track compartment, which group is ultimately compacted to give a pack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Nicolaas Martin Prakken
  • Publication number: 20040195074
    Abstract: A placing apparatus having first and second rear end holding members is provided between a loading apparatus that loads items in an upright position and a conveyance apparatus downstream. These rear end holding members move making a box motion when seen from the side. As a result, while the first rear end holding member holds the rearmost end of a group of items, the second rear end holding member stands by to receive a new item. The invention provides a conveyance apparatus and a boxing apparatus comprising the same that have widespread applicabiilty. The conveyance apparatus and boxing apparatus while achieving high-speed processing, are able to convey items of varying thickness and grouped in varying numbers in a stable manner and maintained in a prescribed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: ISHIDA, CO. LTD.
    Inventors: Seisaku Iwasa, Yoshinori Oishi
  • Publication number: 20040195075
    Abstract: A conveyor for transporting articles is disclosed. The conveyor is for transporting articles having an initial pitch, wherein the initial pitch of the articles is subsequently decreased and/or increased. After the subsequent increase and/or decrease in pitch, the initial pitch can then be restored or a different pitch obtained.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Jason Matthew Orndorff, Jeffrey Wes Martin, Kenneth Leonard Ruehl
  • Publication number: 20040195076
    Abstract: In an apparatus for interfacing a line for conveying articles (4a) with a feeding line having a different pitch, a plurality of carriages carrying seats or trays for the articles, are driven by conveying chains having a plurality of pins which engage with corresponding recesses made in the carriages, in a first area of the apparatus. Flat projection joined to vertical walls support and guide the carriages in the forward movement direction while the chains are supported and guided by the walls. A worm screw drives the carriages in the forward movement direction, in a second area of the apparatus; Rollers are provided in the bottom of the carriages for mutual removable coupling with the worm screw, in the second area of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Marchesini Group S.p.A.
    Inventor: Giuseppe Monti
  • Publication number: 20040195077
    Abstract: An apparatus moves a plurality of transport media along a path of travel. The plurality of transport media define at least two groups of transport media, where each group of transport media has substantially identical transverse dimensions with respect to one another within one group of transport media, while having substantially different transverse dimensions with respect to another group of transport media. The apparatus includes a plurality of rollers rotatably mounted in fixed locations spaced along a path of travel. At least one motor is provided for driving at least one of the rollers in rotation. At least one transport media is supported on the rollers for movement along the path of travel in response to rotation of the roller by the motor. Each transport media has at least one elongate support member continuously engageable with at least two rollers simultaneously while the transport media moves along the path of travel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: Velibor Kilibarda
  • Publication number: 20040195078
    Abstract: A conveyor system, and method of controlling the conveyor system, includes providing a conveying surface, at least one motor propelling the conveying surface and a plurality of lower-level controllers. At least one of the lower-level controllers adapted to control the at least one motor. An upper-level controller is provided in communication with the plurality of lower-level controllers. The upper-level controller is adapted to send communications to the lower-level controllers for controlling the at least one motor. A communications bus is provided that carries the communications between the upper-level controller and the lower-level controllers. The upper-level controller is adapted to automatically assign each lower-level controller a unique communications address. The unique communications address enables the upper-level controller to send messages over the communications bus to individual ones of the lower-level controllers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Keith W. Anderson, Wynn M. Pelak, Le Roy Lubbers, Artemio Affaticati, Frank-Peter Schaum, David M. LaFleur
  • Publication number: 20040195079
    Abstract: A conveyor belt assembly including a flexible belt body with a plurality of spaced flexible teeth and at least one hardened tooth coupled to the belt body. The flexible belt body and flexible teeth comprise a resilient material. The hardened tooth comprises hardened plastic or metal. The flexible belt body also includes at least one reinforcing member within the belt body. A guide member is coupled to the flexible belt body and the hardened tooth to assist in transporting objects on the conveyor belt assembly. A pivotable clamping device clamps the ends of the belt body together to form a continuous belt. The clamping device clamps the reinforcing member to ensure a strong connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: Pflow Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark R. Webster, Craig S. Schmidt
  • Publication number: 20040195080
    Abstract: A rotary switch for vehicles including a plurality of fixed rotational positions and several spring-loaded axial positions. A first axial position is activated by a pushing movement and a second axial position is activated by a pulling movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Applicant: VOLVO LASTVAGNAR AB
    Inventors: Yngve HAGBERG, Lasse RYDEN
  • Publication number: 20040195081
    Abstract: A key-switch device includes a key-top having retainers formed on the back surface of the key-top, first and second levers disposed under the key-top, each lever including a base-end part and a pair of arms opposing each other and extending from both ends of the base-end part, the first and second levers being connected together rotatably about the substantial center of the pair of arms as an intersecting point, a lever-holding plate capable of retaining each lower end of the first and second levers, and an actuator member attached to and spanned between both the base-end parts of the first and second levers. Further, the actuator member has a concave slide-retainer-receiving part with the open top, and the base-end part of the second lever is slidably retained in the slide-retainer-receiving part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Narusawa, Kazuhiro Yakoyama, Takayuki Ito, Sadayuki Yaginuma
  • Publication number: 20040195082
    Abstract: An apparatus for a hinged key switch is presented which operates around a hinged pivot point located external to the four points of the key cap, and which comprises a rubber spring providing a vertical bias and an arm with an extension which acts as a stopper when it abuts a raised portion of the mounting plate. The rubber spring is integrally formed from a rubber sheet which is supported on one side by the mounting plate and on the other by the back plate. The stopper extends vertically downward from the key cap and acts to limit the movement of the key in the vertical direction. A horizontal extension from a lower portion of the key cap further extends downward and through a slot in the mounting plate and has a hook which abuts an underside of the mounting plate, such extension from the key cap acting as the pivot point around which the key rotates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Toshisada Takeda, Richard Acosta, Charles Fauble, Chatree Sitalasai
  • Publication number: 20040195083
    Abstract: The solar still has a frame, an evaporator within the frame and a glass sheet supported by the frame and spaced above the evaporator. The evaporator has a peripheral flange in contact with the edge of the glass sheet. The glass sheet and peripheral flange are nested within an inwardly facing channel on the frame, the sealing between the glass and the flange being by surface tension of water between the glass and the flange.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventor: John Ward
  • Publication number: 20040195084
    Abstract: A process for separating secondary-butanol impurity from ethyl acetate (EtAc) by feeding the impure EtAc to a distillation column operating at a pressure of less than 1 bar absolute to provide (1) a stream comprising EtAc as a major component and (2) a residue or a second stream comprising at least some sec-butanol from said impure EtAc. The process can be applied to purifying EtAc derived from (a) catalytic reaction of ethylene with acetic acid followed by (b) a hydrogenation step. The 2-butanone impurity produced in step (a) is difficult to separate from EtAc, and step (b) converts it to sec-butanol which can be separated by the reduced pressure fractionation of the invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Stephen Warren Hetherington, Witold Franciszek Pacynko
  • Publication number: 20040195085
    Abstract: A method for collecting acrylic acid comprising the step of collecting acrylic acid using an aqueous medium from a reaction gas comprising acrylic acid obtained by catalytic vapor-phase oxidation of propane, propylene, and/or acrolein, the step being conducted so as to satisfy the following formula (1) wherein A represents a weight fraction of acrylic acid to all condensable ingredients in the reaction gas before collecting acrylic acid and B represents a weight fraction of acrylic acid in bottoms of a collection device used in the step of collecting. According to the method, acrylic acid can be efficiently collected from the reaction gas comprising acrylic acid obtained by catalytic vapor-phase oxidation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Shuhei Yada, Kimikatsu Jinno, Yasushi Ogawa, Yoshiro Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20040195086
    Abstract: A method is disclosed for carrying out microwave assisted chemical reactions. The method includes the steps of placing reactants in a microwave-transparent vessel, placing the vessel and its contents into a microwave cavity, applying microwave radiation within the cavity and to the vessel and its contents while concurrently externally cooling the vessel conductively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Publication date: October 7, 2004
    Inventors: Brittany L. Hayes, Michael J. Collins