Patents Issued in December 14, 2004
  • Patent number: 6829932
    Abstract: In order to detect a filling process, a signal is emitted into the container and an echo reflected from the container is recorded. At least one parameter, e.g., the amplitude h(t) of the reflected echo at a time t, is determined, and a filling process is detected if the parameter lies outside an expected range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: VEGA Grieshaber KG
    Inventors: Robert Laun, Dieter Haas
  • Patent number: 6829933
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (2) for determining the density of an electrolyte (4). Said device (2) comprises at least two immersion tubes (9, 10) provided with an open orifice (52) and immerging at different depths in the electrolyte (4), whereby said immersion tubes can be respectively filled with gas to a depth (21, 22) which is allocated thereto and each tube has a different gas depth (d) with respect to the other. A least one differential pressure sensor (16) is used to define the difference in pressure inside the immersion tubes (9, 10). An electrode (11, 19) is respectively provided inside the immersion tubes (9, 10), whereby said electrode is connected to a voltage source (5, 35) in order to produce the required depth (21, 22) of gas so that said immersion tubes (9, 10) can be filled therewith upon contact with the electrolyte(4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Fraunhofer Gesellschaft zur Forderung der Angewandten Forschung E.V.
    Inventors: Heribert Schmidt, Dirk Uwe Sauer
  • Patent number: 6829934
    Abstract: A method facilitates simultaneously balancing mechanically coupled, synchronously rotating rotors. The rotors have different axes of rotation relative to one another and together define a rotor group to be balanced. Each rotor has at least one of a bearing plane and an other measuring plane associated therewith, the other measuring plane significantly describing vibrations of the each rotor. The rotors within the rotor group together have a number of different angular velocities associated therewith. At least one rotor of the rotor group is equipped with at least one vibration pickup in at least one of each bearing plane and the other measuring plane thereof. As many impulse and phase transmitters are installed in the rotor group as are provided the number of different angular velocities associated with the rotors within the rotor group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Voith Paper Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Robert Wolf, Eva Scheideler, Georg Kugler
  • Patent number: 6829935
    Abstract: A drive location compensation system determines a deviation between an actual and nominal position of a drive location on a rotor relative to an attachment location on the rotor. The compensation system uses a balancing machine and a sensor that detects when one of the attachment locations passes a known position. Based on the output of the sensor and a known position of a drive spindle of the balancing machine that is coupled to the drive location on the rotor, a relation between the drive spindle and the attachment location is determined. This relationship is compared to a nominal relationship that is based on a calibration standard. The deviation is compensated for during the balancing or the rotor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Youells, Scott B. Holland
  • Patent number: 6829936
    Abstract: For leak testing closed containers (9) which are filled with a filling product containing at least one liquid component the container is introduced in a test cavity (1) which is evacuated at least down to vapour pressure of that liquid component. The pressure in the surrounding of the container (9) and thus within test cavity (1) is monitored. Monitoring is performed by a vacuum pressure sensor (7), whereas lowering pressure surrounding the container (9) is performed by a vacuum pump (5). Leakage is detected by monitoring a pressure change in the surrounding of the container which is due to evaporation of liquid emerging from a leak and being evaporated in the low pressure surrounding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Martin Lehmann
  • Patent number: 6829937
    Abstract: A monolithic silicon acceleration sensor capable of detecting acceleration along multiple orthogonal axes of acceleration is disclosed. The monolithic silicon acceleration sensor is micromachined from silicon to form one or more sensor cells, each sensor cell having an inertial mass positioned by beam members fixed to a silicon support structure. Movement of the inertial mass due to acceleration is detected by either a differential capacitance measurement between opposing surfaces of the inertial mass and electrically conductive layers on a top and a bottom cover plate structure, or by a resistance measurement of piezoresistive elements fixed to the positioning beam members. Embodiments of the invention are capable of detecting acceleration in a plane, along two orthogonal axes of acceleration, or along three orthogonal axis of acceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: VTI Holding Oy
    Inventor: Geoffrey L. Mahon
  • Patent number: 6829938
    Abstract: A method for selecting trees for harvest according to a predetermined criterion is provided which includes at least the steps of applying a vibrative member to the tree, vibrating the vibrative member, determining the resonance properties of the vibrative member, calculating an observed quality factor associated with the vibrative member vibrations, and, comparing the observed quality factor with a predetermined relationship between the quality factor and the tree selection criterion. A portable tree probe, suitable for field use, is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: The Johns Hopkins University
    Inventor: David W. Blodgett
  • Patent number: 6829939
    Abstract: Sounds input via a sound input device are corrected in accordance with age-based hearing characteristic data read from a memory or correction values for reference hearing characteristics for individual hearing characteristics-measured by an individual hearing characteristics measurement device, and the sounds corresponding to the hearing characteristics are measured and displayed by the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignees: National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, Kenji Kurakata
    Inventors: Kenji Kurakata, Yasuo Kuchinomachi
  • Patent number: 6829940
    Abstract: A method is provided for measuring the surface travel time of a surface wave between first and second points on a surface. First and second spaced apart transducers are disposed substantially perpendicular to a surface. The direct travel times for each transducer are determined, then a total travel time from the first transducer to the second transducer is measured. The direct travel times are subtracted from the total travel time to produce the actual travel time between the points on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: Lat Sang Koo
  • Patent number: 6829941
    Abstract: A tunnel effect nanodetector. A gold plated sensor pin is single crystal silicon. A gold plated sensor membrane is polycrystalline silicon over a pin. Through holes are in the membrane and gold. Corrugations are along membrane boundaries. The nanodetector includes a unit for maintenance of gap between the pin and membrane. The unit includes a deflection electrode and tunnel current limiter. Gold on the membrane is connected to an input voltage. Gold on the pin is connected to a tunnel current amplifier and tunnel current limiter, the output of which is connected to the deflection electrode. The capacitance measuring unit is connected to the deflection electrode and gold on the membrane. The tunnel current amplifier and capacitance measuring unit are connected to an A/D converter. The sensor, gap maintenance unit, tunnel current amplifier, capacitance measuring unit and A/D converter are a monolithic integrated circuit. The nanodetector electronics are polycrystalline silicon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventors: Andrey Gennadievich Alexenko, Mikhail Arsenovich Ananyan, Valery Leonidovich Dshkhunyan, Vyacheslav Fedorovich Kolomeitzev, Petr Nikolaevich Luskinovich, Alexandr Borisovich Nevsky, Oleg Alekseevich Orlov
  • Patent number: 6829942
    Abstract: A pressure sensor includes a pair of base films, a pair of electrodes, a layer of pressure-sensitive resistor, a spacer, and a projection. The electrodes are located between the base films. The layer of pressure-sensitive resistor is located between the base films to be distant from one of the electrodes by a predetermined gap. The spacer is located outside the layer of pressure-sensitive resistor between the base films and used for forming the gap. The projection is located on an outer surface of one of the base films in order to decrease the lowest pressure that can be detected by the pressure sensor. The contact state between the layer of pressure-sensitive resistor and one of the electrodes varies to vary the resistance between the electrodes when a pressure acts on the projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Kenichi Yanai, Hiroto Nakatani, Tomoyasu Watanabe
  • Patent number: 6829943
    Abstract: The invention relates to a weight monitoring system for a motor vehicle (1) which can, if appropriate, be connected to a trailer (2). The system uses weight sensors to determine the weights (F1, F2) acting on the axles of the motor vehicle, in order to calculate from them the overall weight of the vehicle, and the axle loads. In addition, a tractive force sensor may be provided in the trailer hitch so that the mass of the trailer (2) can be determined by means of the tractive force (F3) and the acceleration of the vehicle. The weight monitoring system calculates various weight variables from the measured values and monitors to determine whether they remain within defined limits. In this context, it is possible, in particular, to take into account a planned route in such a way that the limiting values of the charge are adapted with respect to the maximum altitude (Hmax) above sea level and/or the maximum gradient (smax) of the route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Wolfgang Weyand, Wolfgang Wickler
  • Patent number: 6829944
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for measuring the tension in bolts, screws, rivets, and other fasteners, is disclosed wherein the deformation of the fastener head is measured, (or the end of fastener in such cases as there is not a distinct formed head, for example stud bolts). The deformation generally is an analytic function of the tension in the fastener. The deformation is a continuous two-dimensional distribution over the surface of the fastener head, which allows redundant measurement and therefore more reliable measurement of fastener total axial tension, and also allows in some instances an evaluation of the bending stresses in the fastener from the distortion of the deformation pattern on the head. An advantage of the invention is that the length of the fastener or its temperature need not be known. The measurements can be determined by optical, capacitance, optical imaging, air gauging and piezoresistive techniques.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventors: Stuart M. Gleman, Geoffrey Keith Rowe
  • Patent number: 6829945
    Abstract: A sensor device for registering strain of a component, which comprises a sensor chip and a supporting substrate, which are connected to each other by a connecting layer such that they form a prefabricated sensor module. The sensor module is attached to the component by a durable creep-free connection such that the strain of the component is transferred to the sensor chip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Markus Gilch, Anton Grabmaier, Leif Reinhold
  • Patent number: 6829946
    Abstract: In an electromagnetic flowmeter, a fluid to be measured flows through a measuring pipe. An electrode in the measuring pipe detects an electromotive force generated by a magnetic field applied to the fluid and flow of the fluid. A first exciting coil applies a first magnetic field having a first frequency to the fluid. A second exciting coil applies, to the fluid, a second magnetic field obtained by amplitude-modulating a carrier having the first frequency by a modulated wave having a second frequency. A power supply section supplies an exciting current to the first and second exciting coils. A signal conversion section separates the component of the first frequency from the electromotive force to obtain an amplitude, separates one of the components of sum and difference frequencies of the first and second frequencies from the electromotive force to obtain an amplitude, and obtains an amplitude ratio. A flow rate output section calculates the flow rate of the fluid on the basis of the amplitude ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Yamatake Corporation
    Inventor: Tomoshige Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 6829947
    Abstract: apparatus and system are disclosed for in situ measurement of downhole fluid flow using Doppler techniques. First, a baseline speed of sound is established as close to the desired measurement point as possible. This speed of sound measurement is then used in Doppler calculations for determining flow velocities based from induced Doppler shift resulting from fluid flow. A heterodyne receiver arrangement is preferably used for processing so that the flow direction can be determined and the detection sensitivity for low flow velocities can be enhanced. From in situ measurements, well kicks may be spotted and dealt with in real-time. In addition, current theoretical models of rheological properties may be verified and expounded upon using in situ downhole measurement techniques. Furthermore, the velocity measurements described herein can be used to recognize downhole lost circulation and/or gas/water/oil influxes as early as possible, even when the mud recirculation pumps are turned off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Wei Han, Jean M. Beique, James R. Birchak, Alan T. Hemphill, Tim Wiemers, Paul F. Rodney
  • Patent number: 6829948
    Abstract: An input unit for receiving a signal from an oscillator corresponds to an ultrasonic wave received by the oscillator has an input impedance significantly smaller than an impedance of an inter-electrode capacitance in the oscillator. This arrangement allows the delay of timing of the received wave to be influenced by a change in the input impedance of the input unit than by a change in the impedance of the oscillator. Since the influence of the change in the impedance of the oscillator against the delay of timing of the received wave is reduced, a flow meter can measure a propagation duration of the ultrasonic wave accurately. More specifically, the flow meter can measure the propagation duration accurately regardless of a change of the inter-electrode capacitance of the oscillator by temperature, thus measuring a flow rate of fluid correctly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuji Nakabayashi, Shuji Abe
  • Patent number: 6829949
    Abstract: A seating detecting device is comprised of a first cushion having an insert wire embedded therein, a second cushion placed on the first cushion, a surface sheet placed on the second cushion, a suspension wire fixed to the surface sheet and arranged between the surface sheet and the second cushion, and a pressure detecting device provided between an upper surface of the first cushion and a lower surface of the second cushion and having a plurality of through-holes for the suspension wire being fixed by the insert wire therethrough thereby to fix the surface sheet to the first and second cushions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Koji Ito, Kazuya Tanaka, Takeshi Tahara, Wataru Otake
  • Patent number: 6829950
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pressure based fingerprint image capture device that includes an array of cantilevers or simply suspended bridges, with each pressure based sensor having a cantilever or a simply suspended bridge in contact with a conducting electrode that deforms under the load applied by the localized ridge on the fingerprint, and which provides contact to another conducting electrode thereby closing the electrical circuit, a switch in the simplest form, and providing a “pulse” response from the sensor. In the quiescent state, each cantilever or simply suspended bridge structure contains an upper electrode which forms one part of the switch, while another conducting layer, the lower electrode at the bottom of the well of the individual sensor, forms the other part of the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Fidelica Microsystems, Inc.
    Inventors: Srinavasan K. Ganapathi, Randolph S. Gluck, Steven H. Hovey, Shiva Prakash
  • Patent number: 6829951
    Abstract: A process for testing the properties of a rubber sample is provided. This process is suitable for use with current rheometers, curemeters, viscometers, and the like, wherein it is common to change test conditions during the duration of the test, when the rubber sample scorches or reaches full cure. This process provides a method for determining an optimal time for changing the test conditions to which the rubber sample is subjected. With this process specifying times for changing test conditions is no longer required prior to starting the test. Rather, the variable test condition is changed at sample-specific times that closely coincide with the actual scorch time or full cure time of the sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Tech Pro, Inc.
    Inventors: John B. Putman, Matthew C. Putman
  • Patent number: 6829952
    Abstract: An anchor plate operatively coupled to a seat belt incorporates a slot that slideably engages an anchor bolt, which is biased therein by a spring. A tension in the seat belt causes a deflection of the spring and an associated motion of the anchor bolt in the slot, which is sensed by a proximity sensor on the anchor plate. In another aspect, a carriage is adapted to slide relative to a bracket, and a first spring is operative between the carriage and the bracket so as to bias the carriage relative to the bracket in a direction opposite to a first direction. Either the bracket is operatively coupled to a vehicle frame with an anchor bolt and the seat belt operatively engages the carriage, or vice versa. A tension in the seat belt, when reacted by the anchor bolt, causes an associated motion of the carriage in the first direction, which is sensed by a displacement sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Automotive Systems Laboratory, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Stanley, David S. Wilson, Ryan N. Steele, Donald A. Duda, Judson G. McDonnell
  • Patent number: 6829953
    Abstract: A capacitive sensor includes a fixed board provided with a fixed electrode unit consisting of one or more electrodes, a movable member provided with a movable electrode unit consisting of one or more electrodes which faces the fixed electrode unit with a gap therebetween, the movable member being rotatable with respect to the fixed board, a weight provided on the movable member, and a retaining element which is disposed between the fixed plate and the weight and retains the movable member in a rotatable manner. At least one of the movable electrode unit and the fixed electrode unit includes a plurality of electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: ALPS Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuyuki Ishiguro, Yasuichi Ono, Kazuo Hasegawa, Daiichi Hashimoto
  • Patent number: 6829954
    Abstract: A sample pretreatment system is provided with a pipettig table. On the pipetting table, there are provided on its front side a normal area 57 in which a plurality of normal secondary sample racks 56 are placed and on its back side an urgent area 76 in which a plurality of urgent secondary sample racks 77 are placed. Each of the normal secondary sample racks 56 holds a plurality of normal secondary sample containers 60 and each of the urgent secondary sample rack 77 holds a plurality of urgent secondary sample containers 79. In a normal pipetting mode, a sample is pipetted from a normal source sample container to the normal secondary sample containers 60, and in an urgent mode, a sample is pipetted from a source sample container to the urgent secondary sample containers 79. The urgent secondary sample rack 77 is formed into a portable type and has a size smaller than the normal secondary sample rack 56.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Aloka Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hitomi Katagi
  • Patent number: 6829955
    Abstract: There is described a particle size distribution analysis apparatus comprising an oscillatory assembly, the oscillatory assembly comprising a receptacle for receiving a powder sample and having an opening through which powder may be discharged, the opening being variable in size, and support means allowing the receptacle to reciprocate along an arcuate path, entry means for introducing the sample into the receptacle, adjusting means for varying the size of the opening, bias means to urge the oscillatory assembly towards a datum position, and drive means to induce oscillations of the oscillatory assembly. Detector means may be provided to determine a characteristic of the oscillations of the oscillatory assembly and hence determine the mass of powder remaining in the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Technometrics Ltd.
    Inventor: Haroun Mahgerefteh
  • Patent number: 6829956
    Abstract: The object of the present invention is to provide an inspection apparatus which enables the speed-up and high efficiency of an inspection as well as the flexibility to the modification of an assembly line. The present invention provides an inspection apparatus, which is directly connected to an assembly line and employed for inspections of a work (magnetic tape cartridge) after assembly, including: an arrival platform to which the work after assembly is carried in; an inspection table on which the work is inspected; a departure platform from which the work after inspection is carried out; a robot for moving the work which has completed inspections on the inspection table to the departure platform as well as moving the work carried in to the arrival platform to the inspection table; and a fixture for fixing the work moved to the inspection table while inspecting the work, wherein a plurality of inspections are performed in parallel while the work is fixed on the inspection table.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kouta Kitamura
  • Patent number: 6829957
    Abstract: Provided is a consolidometer and methods of its use. In its preferred embodiment, the device and methods permit accurate and convenient laboratory sampling of the self-weight consolidation of media, such as soft soil and soil slurries that may result from dredging operations. One option also provides for attaching sensors at locations along the consolidometer for taking data on additional characteristics of the media.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Landris T. Lee, Jr., Daniel A. Leavell, Mickey D. Blackmon
  • Patent number: 6829958
    Abstract: Disclosed is an input device, comprising: a numerical value input unit; a storage unit; and a control unit. According to the present invention said numerical value input unit consists of numeric keys, and said storage unit stores the data for each of the parts of a human body Furthermore, said control unit operates in such manner that each of the parts of the human body is assigned any one of the numeric keys and when a specific numeric key is depressed the data for the part designated thereby is retrieved from the storage unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Tanita Corporation
    Inventors: Kiharu Sunako, Yoshitsugu Sasaki
  • Patent number: 6829959
    Abstract: The apparatus and method for moving a sensor over a workpiece includes a sensor, and an actuating member. The sensor, such as a non-destructive test sensor, is carried by the actuating member, and the actuating member is at least partially disposed within a housing. The actuating member is adapted for automated movement in one direction, and the housing may be configured to be grasped by an operator and manually moved in another direction. As such, the sensor may automatically move in one direction with respect to the workpiece without manual intervention, and manually move in another direction, such that the sensor is moved by the combination of automated and manual movement. In addition, the actuating member may have at least two substantially parallel arms extending from near the sensor, which permits the sensor to slide along the workpiece while maintaining a substantially normal relationship to a surface of the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Carl B. Gifford, Jeffrey R. Kollgaard, Clyde T. Uyehara
  • Patent number: 6829960
    Abstract: A shift control device for a transmission mechanism for a motor vehicle having a shift control lever 2 provided in the vicinity of a steering wheel 1 for column shifting, a steering shaft 16 movable in response to the operation of the steering wheel 1, and a shift shaft 22 rotatable when the shift control lever 2 is operated in a first direction d2 and axially movable when the shift control lever 2 is operated in a second direction which is different from the first direction, wherein an axial direction S2 of the shift shaft 22 is different from an axial direction S1 of the steering shaft 16. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a transmission mechanism shift control device for preventing the occurrence of a gear shift that the driver does not intend and improving further the operability thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshimitsu Arai, Noritosi Hasumi, Nobuhiro Uchijima
  • Patent number: 6829961
    Abstract: An intermediate steering column (10) for a vehicle with a firewall (14) includes a first shaft (30) pivotally attached to a first U-joint (54) and rotatable about a longitudinal axis (32) of the first shaft upon rotation of the first U-joint. A second shaft (28) drivingly connected to the first shaft (30) has a slip joint connection (42) with the first shaft permitting relative axial movement of the first and second shafts while maintaining a rotary drive connection between the first and second shafts. The first shaft (30) includes first and second shaft parts (60 and 62) and a quick disconnect joint (64) between the first and second shaft parts permitting disconnection of the first and second shaft parts and pivoting of the first shaft part relative to the first U-joint (54) to a first out of the way position and pivoting of the second shaft part relative to a second U-joint (36) to a second out of the way position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: David Koellisch
  • Patent number: 6829962
    Abstract: A steering column (10) includes a steering column member (12). A mounting bracket (66) connects the steering column (10) to a vehicle frame. The mounting bracket (66) has a surface defining an aperture (77). A support (24), through which the steering column member (12) extends, is connected with the mounting bracket (66). The support (24) supports the steering column member (12) for rotation about a longitudinal axis (26) of the steering column member (12) and is movable relative to the mounting bracket. A locking mechanism (130) prevents movement of the support (24) relative to the mounting bracket (66). A first portion (42) is connected with the support (24) and is movable with the support (24) and the steering column member (12) relative to the mounting bracket (66). A follower pin (63) extends from the first portion (42) and into the aperture (77) in the mounting bracket (66).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Mark A. Cartwright
  • Patent number: 6829963
    Abstract: A handlebar shifter device for operating bicycle derailleur system includes a fixed piece connected to a bicycle handlebar and a recess defined in the end surface of the fixed piece for receiving a resilient member therein. A rotatable member is rotatably mounted to a tube of the fixed piece and an annular flange extends from an end surface of the rotatable member. A cable retaining hole is defined in the fixed piece for receiving a derailleur cable therein and a free end of the cable is fixed to the rotatably member. Two blocks extend from the rotatable member and a plate is mounted on the annular flange. Two protrusions extend from an outer periphery of the plate and respectively contacting two blocks on the rotatable member. A plurality of notches are defined in an outer periphery of one of the protrusions and an index peak of the resilient member is engaged with one of the notches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Yung Sung Lin
    Inventor: Chiu Lung Liao
  • Patent number: 6829964
    Abstract: An actuation lever is provided that comprises a lever having a first end configured to engage and support a knob, a second end configured for connection to a lever-actuated device and a longitudinal axis. The mating knob includes at least one pocket having at least one inner peripheral surface. The first end of the lever includes a resiliently deflectable retaining member having a tine that includes a barb-like tip that engages the inner peripheral surface of the pocket. As the knob is inserted onto the first end of the lever, the tine deflects inwardly towards the longitudinal axis. The spring force generated by the deflected tine causes the retaining member to exert oppositely directed forces against the inner peripheral surface of the pocket. The barb-like tip on the end of the tine imbeds into an inner peripheral surface of the pocket to retain the knob on the first end of the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Darl T. Dufendach
  • Patent number: 6829965
    Abstract: The present invention is a two-piece bicycle crank set comprising of two monolithic, thin-wall continuous tubular members. Each tubular member includes a crank arm and a one-half portion of a crank axle, where the crank arm and the portion of the crank axle form a continuous thin-wall tubular shape. The two tubular members are coupled precisely midway between two bearing sets within a bracket shell of a bicycle. The coupling connecting the two tubular members can include an outer sleeve, an inner sleeve, two exteriorly tapered and internally threaded bushings and a threaded stud. Turning the threaded stud positions the bushings to expand the inner sleeve, whereby the crank axle portions of the two tubular members are secured within the inner sleeve and the outer sleeve by the expanding inner sleeve. Alternatively, an interference fit coupling connects the two tubular members, and includes a mortise member and a tenon member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Bruno Mombrinie
  • Patent number: 6829966
    Abstract: A hammer configuration possessing a conventional striking end opposed to a fastening pin starting end presenting a cylindrical blind cavity enables manual starting of a collared fastening pin typically utilized in fastening metal tracks to typically concrete substrates and driving of the same home with placement of the fastening pin in the blind cavity, striking and penetrating the metal track with the exposed point of the fastening pin embedding the same partially in the substrate, retracting and then rotating the hammer head 180°, and striking the head of the fastening pin with the flat face of the conventional striking end. An optional bifurcated claw on the top of the head provides optimal leverage in conventional use pulling nails also driven by the conventional striking end. Conventional use with nails and similarly driven fasteners and safe, efficient, and reliable starting and driving of collared fastening pins is provided in a single hammer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Robert M. Bramuchi
  • Patent number: 6829967
    Abstract: A power tong for coupling and uncoupling tubular members including relatively large diameter members and relatively small diameter members whether in a concentric or not configuration, wherein a housing mounts a rotary framework having a U-shaped cavity adapted to receive tubular member coaxially with the rotary framework. The rotary framework pivotally mounts three chordal segments each having a toothed arc and a chordal border spaced about the cavity and having two pair of recesses with adjustable gripping elements seated therein, one pair for coupling and uncoupling relatively large tubular members from a stationary member and the other for coupling and uncoupling relatively small tubular members from a stationary member. The power tong is capable of engaging and uncoupling an outer tubing member, disengaging therefrom and then engaging and uncoupling an inner tubing member of a tubing string without repositioning the power tong, as well as, the reverse process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Terry L. Kemp
  • Patent number: 6829968
    Abstract: A pipe making and breaking apparatus having top, middle and bottom wrenches connected to a frame. A torquing cylinder operatively extends between the middle wrench and the frame and when actuated through one or more torquing cycles causes an upper pipe to make (top and middle wrenches) or break (middle and bottom wrenches) relative to a lower pipe. A grip hold actuator maintains the middle wrench in the gripping position continuously during the making torquing cycles. A continuous chain spinner above the top wrench spins the top pipe to make a position or away from a make position. The spinner can be a stand alone unit or can hang freely in the derrick or can be part of the make/break apparatus. A spinner drive chain motor when pressurized and when an oiler button is actuated causes lubricant to be sprayed out a nozzle on the (moving) chain. Windows (guide gates) and/or guide posts direct the chain so as to not bunch up against the casing sprockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Hawk Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas D Hauk, Raul Hector Perez
  • Patent number: 6829969
    Abstract: A feed mechanism sheet material sequentially on demand to a take-up mechanism of processing machinery. The feed mechanism has a feed table with a gate. Sheets may be stacked against the gate, which allows only the lowermost sheet to pass therebeneath. Rollers within the surface of the rotatably driven to advance the lowermost sheet beneath the gate to the take-up mechanism. A restraining device prevents freewheeling over run of the rollers. The sheets may be longer in length than the circumference of a tool-carrying roll set used to process the sheet. The difference is accommodated by transferring sheet feed through the nip between the tool set and a separate servo-controlled drive upstream of the nip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: John Anthony Sullivan
  • Patent number: 6829970
    Abstract: Disclosed is a tape guide device for an automatic roll tape cutter, the toll tape cutter including a tape feed-out unit housed in a case for feeding out a roll tape loaded in a tape loading portion thereof through a plurality of guide rollers from a supply roller thereof, and a tape cutting unit which is mounted in front of the case for cutting the tape fed out at a proper length, the tape guide device comprising: a body disposed between the tape loading portion and the supply roller of the tape feed-out unit and having both ends, one end of which is hingeably mounted to one side wall of the tape feed-out unit as to be elastically biased toward an opening direction, and the other free end of which has engaging protrusions formed thereon; a first guide roller installed at the rear end of the body and having engaging recesses formed on an outer circumference of both ends thereof; a pair of stoppers horizontally installed inside the body in such a manner as to be moved oppositely with respect to each other, each
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Myon Ki Hong
  • Patent number: 6829971
    Abstract: An improved cutting fixture for heat-shrink film sleeve labeling machines comprised of a mounting frame disposed around the outer periphery of the center guide post in a sleeve labeling machine that secures a plurality of blade assemblies at equal intervals apart. Each blade assembly is positioned on a drive plate by means of an inserted eccentric shaft to maintain synchronous operation. The eccentric shafts of the blade assembly are driven into reciprocal rotation by a power structure, each eccentric shaft causing the blades at their lower extents to alternately project and retract for cutting heat-shrink film at a required travel and time to effectively shorten the period involved and thereby increase production efficiency. Each cutter shaft is restrained by a check plate and anchoring screws to prevent 360 -degree free rotation, which not only results in safer blade replacement, but at the same time also prolongs the service life of the transmission and structural components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventors: Chien-Tsai Huang, Chun-Hsiang Huang
  • Patent number: 6829972
    Abstract: A saw table for fixing frame pieces of frames of paintings, pictures or photos, includes a base table having two arms crossed and substantially perpendicular to each other and a gap at where the arms are crossed, wherein the arms are respectively provided with a fastening device to secure a frame piece to be cut, and a guiding assembly having a guiding shaft provided on one of the arms at where the arms are crossed and is adjacent to the gap and an attracting device movably mounted on the guiding shaft. The attracting device has a magnet thereon for attracting a saw blade attached on the attracting device with a blade cutting portion of the saw blade received in the gap and the guiding shaft and the attracting device are respectively provided with a positioning device to fixedly secure the attracting device on the guiding shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-Wu Chen
  • Patent number: 6829973
    Abstract: A saw blade, such as a snow saw blade, for cutting heterogeneous, friable materials that includes a fracturing member positioned in the extending line of cutting teeth of the blade, the fracturing member providing a non-cutting impact surface projecting outwardly beyond the outermost line of the cutting teeth to momentarily interrupt cutting engagement during sawing of a surface with a non-cutting, impacting engagement therewith to shatter and break the surface as it is being cut for a more effective sawing operation of the cutting teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Benjamin H Yang
  • Patent number: 6829974
    Abstract: A firearm buffer system that reduces the rate of fire of a full automatic firearm that has a gas port wear and reduces the adverse effect of bolt bounce. The firearm buffer system includes a buffer assembly that has an elongated buffer body having an elongated hollow interior with a dosed end and an open end and a plurality of weights sized and shaped to reciprocate in the elongated hollow interior of the buffer body. Springs are located in the elongated hollow interior of the buffer body for positioning at least some of the weights apart from each other and a movable buffer plunger is reciprocally mounted in the open end of the elongated hollow interior of the buffer body. The movable buffer plunger is sized so that it does not come into operation until a predetermined amount of wear occurs at the firearm's gas port. In one embodiment a spacer member is provided to permit the buffer assembly to be used with a firearm having a full sized buttstock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Inventor: Mack W. Gwinn, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6829975
    Abstract: A percussive hydraulic apparatus includes a body inside which is mounted a cylinder in which an impact piston is guided. Fluid distribution providing the motion of the piston is produced by a distributor housed in a distribution box mounted in the body. The cylinder and the distribution box are entirely contained in the enclosure defined by the body, with the cylinder being mechanically supported by one of its ends of the body. The distribution box is mounted coaxial to the cylinder and is mechanically supported thereon. Surfaces perpendicular to the axis of the apparatus, subjected to pressure, are arranged and dimensioned such that the resultant hydraulic forces applied on the cylinder and distribution box during all the phases of the operating cycle thereof are directed in the same direction towards a support located in the body of the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Montabert S.A.
    Inventor: Bernard Piras
  • Patent number: 6829976
    Abstract: A brake booster (10) having a housing defined by joining a substantially circular first shell (12) to a second shell (14) to compress a first bead (100,200) on a diaphragm (102,202) secured to a movable wall (76) and seal an interior thereof from the surrounding environment. The movable wall (76) includes a hub (44) with a disc (74) having an annular groove (70) located adjacent a peripheral surface (72) for receiving a second bead (104,204) on the diaphragm (102,202). The diaphragm (102,202) is characterized by a resulting cylindrical body (116,216) with a first section (215) that transitions from the first bead (100,200) and a second section (217) that transitions from the second bead (104,204). The first (100,200) and second (104,204) beads each have an initial oval shape that is stretched into a circular shape for respective retention between the first (12) and second (14) shells and annular groove (70) in sealing a front chamber (50) from a rear chamber (52).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Robert Bosch Corporation
    Inventor: Masato Wake
  • Patent number: 6829977
    Abstract: The invention relates to a built-up piston, comprising central screwing and a central cooling chamber. The aim of the invention is to reduce the flow resistance in the oil delivery area. To this end, means for transferring oil from the piston rod to the central cooling chamber are provided in the area of the screw head of the central screw connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Mahle GmbH
    Inventor: Dieter Messmer
  • Patent number: 6829978
    Abstract: A piston assembly includes first and second pistons, a transition arm coupled to each of the pistons, and a rotating member rotating in a first direction about a first axis. The transition arm includes a drive member coupled to the rotating member off-axis of the rotating member. A first counterbalance is mounted to rotate in the first direction, and a second counterbalance is mounted to rotate in a second direction opposite the first direction. The second counterbalance rotates about a second axis offset and parallel to the first axis. Alternatively, the second counterbalance rotates about the first axis. A method of counterbalancing a piston assembly includes mounting a first counterbalance to the piston assembly to rotate in the first direction, and mounting a second counterbalance to the piston assembly to rotate in the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: R. Sanderson Management, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Sanderson, Albert E. Sanderson, Kay Herbert
  • Patent number: 6829979
    Abstract: A swashplate centering and holddown mechanism (55) for an axial piston unit (11) comprising a cylinder barrel (29) disposed for rotation about an axis of rotation (A). A cam member (39) is tiltable about a transverse axis and has a swashplate (37). The swashplate (37) is perpendicular to the axis of rotation (A), in a neutral position, and has a displaced position (FIG. 4). The swashplate centering and holddown mechanism biases the cam member (39) axially toward a cradle surface (41) and pivotably toward the neutral position (FIG. 3). The mechanism (55) comprises a pair of arms (67,69), each of which defines a pivot location (71,73), at one axial end thereof, fixed relative to a pump housing (19) on one side of the axis of rotation (A), and a swashplate-engaging portion (95,97), at the opposite axial end thereof, engaging the swashplate, on the other side of said axis of rotation (A), when said swashplate is in neutral.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Sutanto Thomas
  • Patent number: 6829980
    Abstract: Lubricating films are formed on end surfaces of a swash plate, respectively. The lubricating films make slide contact with shoes, respectively. The lubricating films are composed of a copper based material containing no lead, and solid lubricant other than lead is contained the copper based material. A good slide contact characteristic may be obtained while using no lead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toyota Jidoshokki
    Inventors: Manabu Sugiura, Takahiro Sugioka, Akira Onoda, Shino Okubo, Tomohiro Murakami
  • Patent number: 6829981
    Abstract: A coffee brewer (10, 10′ and 10′) is provided with a plurality of solenoid controlled, bi-position dispense valves (40, 40′), a size adjustable valve (60) or a combination of both and a programmable controller (18) for controlling the dispense valves in accordance with preselected brew parameters of batch quantity and dispense time duration (FIG. 8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2004
    Assignee: Food Equipment Technologies Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Zbigniew G. Lassota