Patents Issued in April 19, 2005
  • Patent number: PP15722
    Abstract: A new miniature rose plant which has abundant, pink flowers and attractive foliage. The variety successfully propagates from softwood cuttings and is suitable for year round production in commercial glasshouses. This new and distinct variety has shown to be uniform and stable in the resulting generations from asexual propagation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Poulsen Roser A/S
    Inventors: L. Pernille Olesen, Mogens N. Olesen
  • Patent number: PP15723
    Abstract: A new and distinct rootstock variety of Prunus named ‘VSL-2’ that is characterized by an absence of suckers, a vigorous growth habit, pink flowers, the ability to serve well as rootstock that is compatible with all other cherries, and the ability to propagate well by softwood cuttings, stool beds and meristem cuttings in vitro. In combination these traits set the new cultivar apart from all other existing varieties of Prunus rootstock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Krymsk Breeding Station
    Inventor: Guennadi Eremin
  • Patent number: PP15724
    Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Calibrachoa plant named ‘USCALI4’, characterized by its semi-upright plant habit; freely branching habit; freely flowering habit; large violet-colored flowers; good weather tolerance; and resistance to Thielaviopsis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Plant 21 LLC
    Inventor: Ushio Sakazaki
  • Patent number: PP15725
    Abstract: A distinctive cultivar of Hybrid Tea Rose plant named ‘Schirus’, characterized by its dark green-colored leaves; vigorous growth habit; long and strong flowering stems; large white-colored flowers with numerous petals; high yield of cut flowering stems; and good postproduction longevity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Piet Schreurs Holding B.V.
    Inventor: Petrus Nicolaas Johannes Schreurs
  • Patent number: PP15726
    Abstract: A new and distinct cultivar of Zonal Geranium plant named ‘Dueimgabri’, characterized by its upright, somewhat outwardly spreading and rounded plant habit; freely branching habit; foliage with distinct zonation pattern; freely and early flowering habit; and dark pink-colored semi-double flowers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Dümmen Jungpflanzen GbR
    Inventor: Marga Dümmen
  • Patent number: RE38726
    Abstract: A method for encoding and decoding digital moving picture signals which can decode subframes appropriately in relation to time if a part of a bit stream is missing or an error occurs in the bit stream, and can suppress degradation of a reproduced picture if decoding of a subframe including a picture in motion in relation to time becomes unfeasible. In the method for encoding and decoding digital moving picture signals of this invention, information for one frame is encoded correspondingly to a spatial hierarchy of a frame, subframes and blocks. A subframe time position number and a subframe space number are attached to an identifier of each of the subframe, thereby resuming appropriate decoding of the subframes immediately after a trouble if an error occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yutaka Machida
  • Patent number: RE38727
    Abstract: A photoelectric conversion device has a non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member formed on a substrate having a conductive surface, and a conductive layer formed on the non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member. The non-single-crystal semiconductor laminate member has such a structure that a first non-single-crystal semiconductor layer having a P or N first conductivity type, an I-type second non-single-crystal semiconductor layer and a third non-single-crystal semiconductor layer having a second conductivity type opposite the first conductivity type are laminated in this order. The first (or third) non-single-crystal semiconductor layer is disposed on the side on which light is incident, and is P-type. The I-type non-single-crystal semiconductor layer has introduced thereinto a P-type impurity, such as boron which is distributed so that its concentration decreases towards the third (or first) non-single-crystal semiconductor layer in the thickwise direction of the I-type layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shunpei Yamazaki
  • Patent number: RE38728
    Abstract: A breath test analyzer, which analyzes exhaled breadths of a patient for isotope labeled products generated in the patient's body after ingestion by the patient of an isotope labeled substance, where the presence of these isotope labeled products provide an indication of a medical condition in the patient. The analyzer uses a very sensitive infra-red spectrophotometer, which enables it to continuously collect and analyze multiple samples of the patient's breath, and process the outputs in real time, while the patient is still connected to the analyzer, such that a definitive result is obtained within a short time, such as the order of a few minutes. The breath test analyzer is sufficiently small in that it can be easily accommodated in the office of a physician. The breath test analyzer can be utilized for a number of diagnostic breath tests, according to the isotope labeled substance ingested by the patient and the gases detected in the patient's breath.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Oridion Medical, LTD
    Inventors: Daniel E. Katzman, Ephraim Carlebach
  • Patent number: 6880172
    Abstract: A baseball protector for protecting the arm of a user, having a forearm protector and a bicep protector connected to each other by a linking member. The forearm protector has an elastic sleeve having an impact absorption pad covering the inside of the user's forearm. The elastic sleeve has a contracted elastic band at its upper end to prevent the forearm protector from slipping down or off the forearm. The bicep protector has an impact absorption pad for covering the bicep of the user's arm and an elastic band at an upper end. The linking member is formed of elastic strips or a sheet member which does not restrict the throwing and/or catching motion of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Jacob T. Quintero
  • Patent number: 6880173
    Abstract: A waterproof boot liner used to keep the feet dry in a wet or damp environment. The boot liner has halves that are mirror images of each other. The halves are joined along a seam by heat sealing or adhesives. The boot liner is held in place utilizing a ribbon of the same material used to make the halves. The boot liner is simply slipped over the socks and inserted into the boot and tied into placed by the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Solomon Green
  • Patent number: 6880174
    Abstract: An apparatus comprising a first curved band portion and a second curved band portion. The first curved band portion has a first end, a second end, an inner curved side and an outer curved side. The first curved band portion defines a passageway between the first end and the second end of the first curved band portion. The passageway has a first opening. The second curved band portion has a first end, a second end, an inner curved side and an outer curved side. A motion-restraint portion is proximate to the first end of the second curved band portion. The first end of the second curved band portion is insertable into the first opening of the passageway of the first curved band portion. The first curved band portion has a range of motion within the passageway of the second curved band portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: 180s, Inc.
    Inventor: Gary F. Prokop
  • Patent number: 6880175
    Abstract: In a waist expanding and contracting structure for pants or the like of a type having waist pockets, a waist part 1 consists of a front waist part 2, a back waist part 3, and a side waist part 4. The structure includes a first elastic member 14 which is positioned between a front waist surface cloth 6 and a front waist reverse cloth 8 with its one end sewn to the side waist part and with its other end sewn to both the front waist surface cloth and the front waist reverse cloth by sewing together, and a second elastic member 15 which is positioned at the rear of the side waist part 4 with its one end sewn to the back waist part 3 and with its other end sewn to the front waist reverse cloth 8. A side cloth 13 is folded back to be sewn to a hemmed edge P1 of the waist pocket, and a pocket bag 17 to be opened and closed by a fastener 16 is provided between the front body part 5 and a reverse cloth 7 of the front body part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Phenix
    Inventors: Kazuhiko Tajima, Shoko Okuda
  • Patent number: 6880176
    Abstract: An improved headgear includes an outer shell and an inner liner providing a head receiving cavity. A headband has a forward portion and lateral portions secured to the inner liner and a rearward portion extending rearwardly of said lateral portions. A first vent aperture is centrally formed in the outer shell. A second vent aperture is centrally formed in the inner liner. Third vent apertures are formed in the inner liner in spaced relationship with the second vent aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Troxel Cycling & Fitness LLC
    Inventors: Richard M. Timms, Michael J. Yokota, John W. Montello
  • Patent number: 6880177
    Abstract: A pair of ergonomic swimming goggles worn at the head to cover eye sockets has two lens bodies, two linings, a bridge component and a goggles band. The linings have firm joint portions annularly disposed at peripheries of the lens bodies. The region of the firm joint portions corresponding to deeper portions of the eye sockets is thicker, while the region of the firm joint portions corresponding to shallower regions of the eye sockets is thinner. Elastic portions extend from the firm joint portions. The extension width of the elastic portions corresponding to the thicker region of the firm joint portions is narrower, while the extension width of the elastic portions corresponding to the thinner region of the firm joint portions is wider. Thereby, the pair of ergonomic swimming goggles can fully seal and comfortably cover the peripheries of the eye sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Hsiu-Ying Sung
  • Patent number: 6880178
    Abstract: The invention is drawn to a retractable guard for use in a sewerage or drainage line having a plurality of prongs with hooked ends are disposed within a sewage pipe downstream of a toilet. The opposite ends of the prongs are connected to a tubular member which, in turn is slidable within a housing connected to the pipe. These prongs can be used to trap articles which can then be easily removed to rectify stoppage problems or prevent contraband from being distributed through the drainage lines. For convenience in cleaning, the guard device can also be provided with a quick-release connection which separates from the pipe with a simple twist. The prongs can also be magnetized to trap metal objects. The prongs may also be mounted on a pivoting shaft to enable mounting within an angled pipe. For convenience in inspection, the guard device can be provided with a clear portion to enable visual inspection of the interior of the guard device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: W. J. Sonny Pino
  • Patent number: 6880179
    Abstract: A sink stopper is provided for a sink body having a base formed with a drain hole, and includes a strainer, an operating device and a closure member. The strainer is mounted on the base, and has a perforated strainer wall disposed in the drain hole. The operating device includes a stationary member mounted on the strainer wall, a movable member coupled movably to the stationary member, and a switching unit operable to retain releasably the movable member between first and second positions relative to the stationary member. The closure member is mounted on the movable member, is configured to form a clearance with the base to permit draining of water through the drain hole when the movable member is at the first position, and abuts sealingly against the base to seal the drain hole when the movable member is at the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Fu Luong Hi-Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yu-Jen Wang
  • Patent number: 6880180
    Abstract: A sanitary washing toilet device which includes a toilet seat, a toilet seat cover, and a case fixed to a rear top periphery portion of a toilet bowl. The case rotatably connected with the toilet seat and the toilet seat cover. The sanitary washing toilet device further includes an optical sensor device provided on a front surface of the case for detecting an open and closed state of at least the toilet seat cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Koichi Hayashi, Yuji Sugiyama, Takashi Muto
  • Patent number: 6880181
    Abstract: A pair of lever arms each have an intermediate segment configured for pivotal mounting on a pair of pins that support a corresponding end of a pair of mounting arms of a flapper valve. Each of the lever arms has a forward end configured to engage and provide a lifting force on a corresponding one of the flapper valve mounting arms when the lever arm and the flapper valve mounting arm are rotated in a first direction during opening of the flapper valve upon manual actuation of a flush control lever or button. A counterweight reservoir is connected to a pair of rearward ends of the lever arms for holding a volume of water and delays rotation of the flapper valve in a reverse direction to seal the flush valve until a volume of water has drained through an outlet aperture in a bottom portion of the counterweight reservoir.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Lavelle Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: David Nichols-Roy, Charles R. Way
  • Patent number: 6880182
    Abstract: A spa apparatus and method for cleaning the same. The spa apparatus includes a basin for retaining fluid, a removable foot rest plate positioned within the basin, an impeller coupled to the basin, and a motor drivably coupled to the impeller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: European Touch Holdings, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Gruenwald
  • Patent number: 6880183
    Abstract: A portable hip-bathing device is made of a vinyl sheet capable of being carried in a folded state, and, in use air is blown into it to form the shape of a hip-bathing device adapted to contain water. In order to prevent overflow a horizontal flat part is formed on a wall of a supporting part and a plurality of water discharge holes are provided in the flat part to prevent bathing water from rising above the flat part when carrying out hip-bathing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Il Ho Song
  • Patent number: 6880184
    Abstract: A urinal cover including a flexible sheet of material having a periphery, a water supply attachment patch attached to the sheet adapted to be place around a water supply pipe of a urinal, and an elastic strip sewn into a portion of the periphery of the sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Daniel J. Vandersand
  • Patent number: 6880185
    Abstract: A versatile furniture unit that is easily changed, or modified to meet different living settings. The furniture unit is constructed as a frame that can be hung from the joists or rafters in a loft ceiling. The frame comprises various furniture elements that can be added on, folded up, or folded down to provide a different living appearance depending on the time of day. The furniture unit easily converts from a living room or playroom setting during the day to a bedroom setting for nighttime.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Dennis K. McAdams
  • Patent number: 6880186
    Abstract: An arrangement in a bed (1) intended for a disabled person and comprising a horizontally rotatable multi-sectional bed base part (3a, 3b) supporting a mattress, the base part being convertible into a seat part (3b) and a backrest part (3a), together with a fixed bed base part (3c). The arrangement furthermore comprises a lifting mechanism 82a) connected to the rotatable bed base parts (3a, 3b) supporting the mattress, the mechanism 82a) being operatively connected to a safety hook (A), that can be connected to a lifting sling, for example, which is worn by the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Bengt Johansson
  • Patent number: 6880187
    Abstract: A system and method for adjusting a person's upper torso in particular, the forearms to a generally parallel position to a floor surface in relation to a work product. A lifting apparatus includes a base support for moving the lifting apparatus horizontally on a floor surface. The base support may include a plurality of wheels being lockable. A platform having a multilayer construction for supporting at least a user thereon. The multilayer construction having a non-slip layer outer layer, a compressible inner layer, and a base layer. A vertical lifting system coupled to a platform and coupled to a base support. The vertical lifting system is configured to vertically move the platform through a plurality of heights above a floor surface. The vertical lifting system may have a pair of laterally mounted hollow stanchions in which each stanchion includes a axially rotatable threaded rod for matingly receiving a gear which is mounted to a drive shaft that provides rotary movement to the gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Robert E. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6880188
    Abstract: An infant-support apparatus for an incubator or warmer. The apparatus comprises a frame and an infant supporting deck having a central position relative to the frame. The deck is movable relative to the frame to laterally extended positions away from the central position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Draeger Medical Infant Care, Inc.
    Inventors: Rick A. Schmidt, David C. Newkirk
  • Patent number: 6880189
    Abstract: A bed for a person is provided. The bed includes a deck and/or a mattress having an adjustable length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey R. Welling, Gregory W. Branson
  • Patent number: 6880190
    Abstract: A controlled pressure and floatation system includes support and flotation units, each comprised by two types of chambers: a main one that contains a liquid substance and a secondary empty chamber; interconnected by a free-flow supply pipe. The main chamber receives the body to be held displacing an amount of liquid substance, in proportion to the weight it receives, towards the secondary chamber, that has no contact with the supported body. The pressures and flotation are controlled by the relative height of the secondary chamber (initial and final pressures), its predetermined shape (sequence of pressures until reaching the resting stage); and the density of the liquid substance. Multi-systems to provide different pressures to different parts of the same body may be created with this basic unit or system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Rafael Danino Inchaustegui
  • Patent number: 6880191
    Abstract: A spray caddy (10) for storing and transporting chemicals and cleaning accessories and method of dispensing diluted liquid chemicals with improved efficiency. The spray caddy (10) comprises a container (11) and an elongate rigid tubular handle assembly (12) that extends through a first hole (32) and a second hole (34) in container (11). Hot (>180. degree. F.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Joe G. Bristor
  • Patent number: 6880192
    Abstract: Disclosed is a washing machine with a float type clutch in which a float connects a rotating force from a motor to a spin-drying shaft or disconnects the rotating force from the spin-drying shaft as it is upwardly or downwardly moved in accordance with supply or drainage of wash water, thereby allowing a washing operation or a dehydrating operation to be carried out, while forming an air layer for preventing wash water from reaching gears included in the float type clutch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Tae Hee Lee, Jin Woong Kim, Si Moon Jeon
  • Patent number: 6880193
    Abstract: A cable-stay cradle system (“cradle system”) for cable stayed bridges is mounted onto a cable stay, the opposite ends of which are attached to anchors on a bridge deck. The cradle system is disposed along the length of the cable stay and located in a pre-formed opening in a pylon. The cradle system includes axially spaced sleeve centering plates that have radially spaced holes through which the cable strands of the cable stay are threaded. The cradle system ensures that a distance from center-points of adjacent cable strands remains essentially constant along the entire length of the cradle system. The invention also provides a method of installing a cable stay including a cradle system, which includes the steps of threading the cable stay through the opening in the pylon so as to locate the cradle system in the opening, and attaching the cable stay to anchors on the bridge deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Figg Bridge Engineers, Inc.
    Inventors: Linda Figg, W. Denney Pate, Eugene C. Figg, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6880194
    Abstract: A portable ramp assembly has many uses, but is especially designed to fit within the flat bed of a pick-up truck which, for example, has an eight foot long flat bed. The assembly comprises a housing which is sufficiently wide to accommodate two separate ramps in side-by-side separated relation. The housing is provided with special blocks for engaging the trailing ends of the ramps and lifting them to be closely aligned with the top, exposed surface of the housing, so as to at least reduce any abrupt offsets between the tops of the housing and adjacent trailing ends of the ramps. Special plastic guides are provided between the ramps and housing to facilitate movement of the ramps and keep them in proper lateral alignment as they move into and out of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Innovative Inventors, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. O'Donnell, Paul D. Rowell, Douglas R. Wroblewski, Roy J. Sasiadek, Paul A. Hoffman
  • Patent number: 6880195
    Abstract: A vehicle (210) for travel though a fluid-filled pipe (12) is disclosed, capable of using power derived from the fluid flow to drive the vehicle (210). Certain embodiments have drive means capable of variable pitch in order to adjust the speed and direction of the vehicle in the pipe. Certain embodiments have drive means comprising a helical arm that can vary in pitch and diameter to accommodate different sizes of pipe and/or different rates of travel along the pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: P.A.C.T. Engineering (Scotland) Limited
    Inventors: Bijan Bahari, Timothy Robert Louis Derval
  • Patent number: 6880197
    Abstract: A disposable toilet cleaning device is provided to clean the surfaces of a toilet which includes a handle and a telescoping arm which extends from the handle for cleaning a toilet. A cleaning head is secured to the free end of the telescoping arm and may include a cleaning chemical to effectuate cleaning of the toilet. The telescoping arm may include a flexible neck for positioning the brush head for cleaning the toilet. The components of the toilet brush may be made of a paper product and/or plastic material suitable for one use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventors: Susan Katz, Cheryl Bersano
  • Patent number: 6880198
    Abstract: A device is provided for applying and/or finishing viscous materials along at least one adjoining surface or a bead along a corner, while simultaneously effecting all of the surfaces substantially free of any excess of the viscous material. The device includes a reinforcing portion (24), at least one operative extension (34R), (34L) with a working edge (56R), (56L) that protrudes beyond the termination (out of view) of the reinforcing portion, and a forward working edge (36), (38). The viscous material is formed with the forward edge. The angle of the operative extension edge to the forward edge is variable and resilient, which conforms to irregularities of the corner and variations in the position of the reinforcing portion and the forward working edge in relation to the adjoining surface, while sidewardly force is maintained against the adjoining surface. A seal is produced and maintained between the extension edge and the adjoining surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: David F. Hazard
  • Patent number: 6880199
    Abstract: An upright extraction cleaning machine comprises a base module, an upright handle pivotally mounted to the base module, a cleaning solution dispensing system for depositing a cleaning solution on a surface to be cleaned, and a fluid recovery system for recovering expended cleaning solution from the surface to be cleaned. The cleaning solution dispensing system includes at least one tank for holding solution to be dispensed and the recovery system includes a tank for holding recovered solution. Each of the tanks comprises a flexible bladder that is collapsible when empty and will expand as it is filled by the respective fluid. In one embodiment, the upright extraction cleaning machine further comprises additional tanks for holding detergent and carpet treatment to be dispensed. In a further embodiment, the additional tanks for detergent and carpet treatment each comprise a flexible bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: BISSELL Homecare, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric C. Huffman, Thomas K. Ankney, Jonathan L. Miner
  • Patent number: 6880200
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner suction device includes an upper casing member and a lower casing member that oppose each other. A rotary brush chamber in the suction device has a suction port formed therein. A turbine chamber that is separated from the rotary brush chamber but interconnected thereto through a passage formed in the partition that separates the rotary brush from the turbine chamber. The rotary brush is supported in the rotary brush chamber as is the turbine for driving the rotary brush. The turbine is rotated by an air current drawn into the vacuum cleaner. A service hole is formed on the turbine chamber of the seduction device body for partially exposing the turbine. The service hole is provided on a removable service hole cover with a locking portion for removably supporting the service hole cover. Contaminants that clog the passage to the tubing can be easily removed by opening the service hole by removing the service hole cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Samsung Gwangju Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Dong-hun Yoo
  • Patent number: 6880201
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner having a main body and a handle, the main body being formed with a nozzle which delivers a stream of dirt-laden air through a dirt duct through a motor-fan inlet, the handle being supported on the motor-fan assembly and housing a filter bag which communicates with the motor-fan assembly for receiving the dirt-laden air, the motor-fan assembly having a motor housing, a motor with commutated brushes which give off carbon dust particles, a motor cooling fan for drawing a cooling airstream and a working fan for drawing the dirt-laden air, the vacuum comprising: an opening formed in the motor housing for receiving the cooling airstream; a cooling outlet formed in the motor housing through which the cooling airstream exists; means for directing the existing cooling airstream into the dirt-laden air; a collar extending axially outwardly from the motor housing, the collar allowing pivotal rotation of the motor housing relative to the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: The Hoover Company
    Inventor: William H. Theiss
  • Patent number: 6880202
    Abstract: A directional lock for a caster. The caster has a wheel assembly including a wheel rotatable about a wheel axis and a housing for supporting the wheel. The housing defines a cavity for receiving a portion of the wheel. Also, the caster includes a stem supported by the housing and positionable in a chassis element, the wheel assembly being pivotally attached to the stem. The directional lock has an engagement portion and a base portion coupled to the engagement portion such that the engagement portion is movable relative to the base portion. The engagement portion is for engaging the wheel assembly to locate the wheel assembly in a predetermined position relative to the chassis element. The base portion is adapted to cooperate with the chassis element to maintain the engagement portion in a predetermined relation to the chassis element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: M.C. Healthcare Products Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph Thompson, Geoff Rutherford, Brian Freeborn
  • Patent number: 6880203
    Abstract: An independently rotating, split tread wheel assembly includes a pair of disks each having an outer tread formed of rubber or polyurethane compounds and supported on the periphery thereof. Each disk includes a central opening that receives a ball bearing assembly. A pair of hub inserts have central annular surfaces in adjacent relationship. A cylindrical spacer extends about the central annular surfaces and supports the inner races of the bearing assemblies so that the two disks turn independently about the hub inserts on their respective bearing assemblies. A pair of spaced apart caster bracket arms straddle the wheel assembly and impinge on the opposed outer surfaces of the hub inserts. An axle extends through aligned holes in the arms and through central bores in the hub inserts, and is secured thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Aubin Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip A. Aubin
  • Patent number: 6880204
    Abstract: A checker-equipped door hinge is provided in which a first notch and a second notch are respectively provided on the front surface and the reverse surface of a fixed base of a second hinge arm, and a torsion spring is formed from a single length of spring wire rod so as to have a torsion shaft portion supported in the first notch, a fixed end portion supported in the second notch, a free end portion rotatably supporting a roller, a U-shaped fixed arm portion providing a connection between the fixed end portion and one end of the torsion shaft portion, and a U-shaped movable arm portion providing a connection between the other end of the torsion shaft portion and the free end portion. This provides a checker-equipped door hinge that has a simple structure for mounting the torsion spring in the second hinge arm, together with good ease of mounting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Rikenkaki Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Manabu Ochiai
  • Patent number: 6880205
    Abstract: A hinge for anchoring a door leaf (2) to a frame (1) of an item of furniture has a base plate (5) that may be secured to the frame (1) and an intermediate piece (3) on which there is mounted a hinge arm (4) connected to a hinge pot (8) that may be secured to the door leaf (2) by way of at least one articulating pin (9). An adjusting and/or fixing mechanism is provided by means of which the hinge arm (4) may be fixed in different positions on the intermediate piece (3). The intermediate piece (3) is provided with a bracket (15) that has lateral marginal projections (15?) and is punched out of the intermediate piece (3). The hinge arm (4) has a region that is C-shaped in cross-section. Inwardly directed projections (7) of this region reach behind the marginal projections (15?) of the bracket (15), as a result of which the hinge arm (4) is anchored to the bracket (15).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Julius Blum Gesellschaft m.b.H.
    Inventor: Helmut Rupprechter
  • Patent number: 6880206
    Abstract: A device is provided for separating out foreign particles and/or neps in a pre-carding zone and/or a post-carding zone of a carding machine having a carding cylinder. The device has at least two modules arranged opposite the carding cylinder in the pre-carding zone and/or the post-carding zone. Each module has a plurality of operating elements, the elements being arranged beside one another as seen in a circumferential direction of the cylinder. The operating elements are fixed carding elements, suctioning devices, and/or separating knives.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Trützschler GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Gerd Pferdmenges, Robert Pischel
  • Patent number: 6880207
    Abstract: A method and device for the evaluation of signals of a sensor, in particular of a microwave sensor, is proposed for the detection of the thickness, mass, density and/or moisture of at least one fiber sliver moving relative to the sensor on drafting equipment. A high-frequency unit assigned to the sensor produces a number of first digital signals in digital form of the current state of the (at least one) fiber sliver. The method according to the invention is characterized in that a second digital signal, representing the current sliver thickness or sliver mass of the (at least one) fiber sliver and which is then used to control the drafting equipment and/or to judge the fiber sliver quality, is formed according to an algorithm from the first digital signals made available. In addition a suitable device for the evaluation of the signals of a sensor is proposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Rieter Ingolstadt Spinneremaschbau AG
    Inventors: Chokri Cherif, Michael Ueding
  • Patent number: 6880208
    Abstract: A tether based connector for locating, identifying, inventorying, controlling and helping to ensure the retrieval of one or more items packaged within a container loaded with potentially obscuring packaging materials. The connector is formed from a stratified body having a die-cut upper sheet layer to form one or more extractable tethers, each of which terminates at a fastener at one end for releasably fastening to an item, and at an easily located terminus at the other end. The terminus may be formed as an anchorment for anchoring to the container. A single anchorment may be adapted to serve a plurality of tethers for fastening to a plurality of items. A badge carrying item identifying information can be associated with a connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: James Cahill
  • Patent number: 6880209
    Abstract: A self propelled lawnmower protective component used to support the grass catcher door is formed of a plastic material that is more flexible than the polyethylene material used in the prior art. By using co-extrusion, two different plastics are extruded into one shape. When applied to the lawnmower structure, the adhesion between the basic profile and a co-extruded ball or flap is extremely tight. Metallocene olefin is the plastic material which, when compressed under load and heat, recovers its original shape, similar to a soft rubber product and still has the capability of adhering to the polyethylene profile, so as not to separate after continuous or repeated use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventor: Stanley V. Kulkaski
  • Patent number: 6880210
    Abstract: A strap clip for hanging piping and ductwork includes a generally inverted T-shaped clip body having a generally upright leg having an upright leg transverse slot formed therein adjacent the upper end of the generally upright leg and a first lower arm extending generally perpendicular to the generally upright leg adjacent the lower end of the generally upright leg. A second lower arm extends downward and outwards adjacent the lower end of the generally upright leg opposite the first lower arm. A third lower arm extends generally perpendicular to the upright leg generally adjacent the second lower arm. Each of the first lower arm, second lower arm and third lower arm each include a transverse slot formed therein extending generally parallel with the upright leg transverse slot. The supporting strap would be extended through the transverse slots and around the ductwork or piping to mount it on the strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Inventors: Chris Kudlacz, Charles W. Schlote
  • Patent number: 6880211
    Abstract: There is provided an improved tab member for a closure system comprising a tab portion and a slot member. The slot member includes a slit or a loop, with the slot located between an inboard portion and an outboard portion. The tab portion has a tab member having a length, an inner edge, an outer edge and at least one lip portion. The tab member outer edge is passed through the slot of the slot member to engage the fastening device. Once passed through the slot, at least one lip portion of the tab member overlaps or catches the outboard portion of the slot member to prevent the tab member from disengaging from the slot member. The slot member outward portion is retained between the lip portion(s) and the underlying generally flexible tab carrier substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Byron M. Jackson, Leigh E. Wood, Randall L. Alberg
  • Patent number: 6880212
    Abstract: A continuous method for producing composite elastic yarns at speeds up to 700 m/min by (a) stretching (drafting) an elastomeric yarn (e.g., spandex) by 2.0× (100%) to 10.5× (950%) while heating (max. heating temperature 220° C.) in a single or double stage draft, (b) air-jet entangling with a relatively inelastic yarn component to create a composite elastic yarn, and then (c) in-line heat-treating (max. heating temperature 240° C.) the composite elastic yarn. The initial draft stage(s) may also be carried out at ambient temperature. The resulting composite elastic yarn has improved stitch clarity, particularly suited for hosiery, and its properties can be tailored to provide fabric properties for knit and woven fabrics hitherto not possible with standard spandex yarns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Invista North America S.a r.l.
    Inventors: Willem Bakker, Bernd Pulvermacher, Michel Verdan, Nicolas Philippe Berthoud
  • Patent number: 6880213
    Abstract: A method for quickly screening piezoelectric transformer apparatuses having low mechanical strength and latent defects is performed by connecting a load impedance to a generator of a piezoelectric transformer apparatus and applying a stress signal to an actuator to vibrate the piezoelectric transformer apparatus. Latent-defect transformer apparatuses having low mechanical strength are damaged during this process and therefore can be easily identified.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., LTD
    Inventor: Takaaki Asada
  • Patent number: 6880214
    Abstract: A column-type machining arrangement for machining a workpiece is provided, including a machine bed; a traversable column slidably coupled to the machine bed; a tool carrier coupled to the column, the tool carrier configured to detachably couple to a tool for machining the workpiece; a plurality guideways to guide the traversable column on the machine bed, the guideways including a first guideway arranged on the machine bed below the column and a second guideway arranged centrally and laterally next to the column at a height equal to approximately half a height of the column; and a first drive arrangement configured to cause the column to slidably traverse on the machine bed, the first drive arrangement acting on the column at a level of the second guideway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: DS Technologie Werkzeugmaschinenbau GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Stüdemann, Werner Jodl