Patents Issued in December 20, 2005
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Patent number: 6976512Abstract: A wire comb and method for assembling an organized bundle, such as a bundled cable, from a plurality of strands using the wire comb. The wire comb includes an inner component as a hub and an outer component as a collar. The hub has slots configured to accept the plurality of strands lengthwise, and at least one projection that extends beyond an outer perimeter of the hub. The collar has at least one recess configured to interface with the projection of the hub for connecting the hub to the collar. The collar also has an opening that allows the plurality of strands to be inserted into the collar prior to connecting the hub with the collar. As such, combing can be accomplished without requiring that the wire combing commence from either end of the strands.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Adobe Communications Electronics, Inc.Inventors: Gordon P. Loeffler, Geoff J. Gomes, Dennis W. Newberry
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Patent number: 6976513Abstract: A center-filled fuel filler system and method for constructing same comprising a vehicle comprising a fuel filler receptacle, a fuel filler receptacle cap operably attached to the fuel filler receptacle, an apertured vehicle hood, the fuel filler receptacle cap protruding through the apertured vehicular hood, a spill tray attached to the fuel receptacle, an overflow pipe attached to the overflow tray to channel liquid away from the overflow tray, an apertured luggage compartment wall, and a fuel filler line, comprised of a curved L-shaped metal pipe, attached to the fuel filler receptacle and extending through the apertured luggage compartment wall. The method for positioning a fuel filler system in a vehicle utilizes an existing aperture in the luggage compartment wall, such that no additional apertures are made in the luggage compartment wall to route the fuel line.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: Mark David Schlachter
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Patent number: 6976514Abstract: In a method for adjusting at least one pressing element of a molding machine for machining workpieces of wood or plastic material relative to a workpiece, transported through the machine and to be machined by the machine, the pressing element is adjusted outside of the molding machine in an adjusting device with the aid of a template of the workpiece and the adjusted pressing element is then inserted into the molding machine.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Michael Weinig AGInventors: Ralf Wagner, Winfried Reuter
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Patent number: 6976515Abstract: The modular drive wheel for log processors includes a tubular midsection sandwiched between a pair of annular rings mounted concentrically on opposite ends of the midsection. The midsection has a resilient outer surface extending around the midsection. The pair of annular rings each have a radially spaced apart array of notches therearound. The notches in the radially spaced apart arrays of notches are sized to snugly receive in releasable locking engagement therein links on opposite ends of chain segments extending between the pair of annular rings. The drive wheel further includes means mounted between the pair of annular rings for selectively forcing apart the pair of annular rings along a longitudinal axis of symmetry of the midsection.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: Alain Duval
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Patent number: 6976516Abstract: A two-part blade support base for mounting a chipper knife to a chipper disc wherein the parting line between the upper part and lower part is substantially parallel to a plane defined by the chipper disc. The parting line incorporates a vertical step which transmits shear forces which would cause the upper part to move outwardly of a chip receiving surface. A screw or bolt connects the upper and lower parts of the blade base. The upper part of the blade base may be constructed of a wear resistant material.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.Inventors: Roy D. Hale, Rickey W. Beasley
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Patent number: 6976517Abstract: The invention relates to a rim for cycles, more particular for bicycles. The invention is also aimed at a tubeless mounted assembly consisting of the said rim and of a tire having in particular two flexible bead wires. According to the invention, the rim consists of two flanges, attached to two seats, intended to receive the beads of a tire, separated from each other by a mounting groove, and, according to the profile of the rim in a radial plane, the bead seats have a generatrix, the axially outer end of which is on a circle of smaller diameter than the diameter of the circle on which the axially inner end is situated, the said generatrix forming an angle with the axis of rotation of the tire of between 15 and 45 degrees.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.Inventors: Loïc Albert, Bernard Moreau
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Patent number: 6976518Abstract: In a pneumatic radial tire comprising a belt of at least two belt layers, in which the belt comprises a maximum-width belt layer containing many cords slantly arranged with respect to an equatorial plane of the tire and a narrow-width belt layer arranged at the outside of the maximum-width belt layer in the radial direction and containing many cords arranged in an oppositely inclined direction to the cords of the maximum-width belt layer, the belt end separation is controlled by arranging a reinforcing layer containing many cords arranged in an oppositely inclined direction to the cords of the maximum-width belt layer so as to overlap with an outer end portion of the maximum-width belt layer located outward from an outer end. of the narrow-width belt layer in the widthwise direction thereof.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Bridgestone CorporationInventor: Kuninobu Kadota
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Patent number: 6976519Abstract: A portable curing system includes a carrying case, a controller located within the carrying case and having a microprocessor, a vacuum pump located within the case and having at least two vacuum ports for connection of vacuum lines, at least two vacuum sensor connectors for receiving leads of vacuum sensors, at least two heater connectors for receiving leads of electrical heaters, and at least two temperature sensor connectors for receiving leads of thermocouples. The controller is operably connected to the vacuum pump, the vacuum sensor connectors, the heater connectors, and the temperature sensor connectors. A touch-screen video display is mounted within the carrying case and operably connected to the controller to display information from the controller and input information to the controller. The video display is pivotable between a stowed position and a viewing position.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: BH Thermal, Inc.Inventor: Brad Bivens
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Patent number: 6976520Abstract: A cord is supplied continuously and on demand by a suitable distributor. The apparatus is used with a revolving form (1) on which the reinforcement is progressively built up by depositing sections of the cord along a desired trajectory for the cord on the surface of the form. The apparatus comprises an element for depositing the cord on the surface of the form (1), describing an alternating path between two turning points, pressers close to the turning points in order to apply the cord to the form at the ends of the trajectory, acting synchronously with the depositing element, a mobile guide (5) disposed opposite the form, in the space between the form and the path described by the depositing element, a fixed guide (6) substantially parallel to the mobile guide (5), control means for moving the mobile guide (5) in a circumferential direction, and motorization means for synchronously piloting the depositing element, the pressers, and the control means of the mobile guide (5).Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.Inventor: Jean-Claude Mayet
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Patent number: 6976521Abstract: An apparatus for fabricating the refastenable absorbent garment includes a web perforator adapted to perforate a base web in a cross direction and a construction drum positioned downstream of the web perforator and adapted to receive the perforated base web. A landing material cutter is adapted to cut a landing material and fastener material in the cross direction. A landing member rotator is positioned adjacent the construction drum and downstream of the landing material cutter. The landing member rotator is adapted to separate successive pieces of the landing material with the fastener material attached thereto at the cross direction landing material cut, rotate the pieces of landing material with the fastener member attached thereto and apply the piece of landing material and fastener material to the base web on the construction drum.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.Inventors: Joseph A. Mlinar, Jesse P. Sorenson, Kenneth J. Wagner
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Patent number: 6976522Abstract: A ladder drum for a venetian blind, a venetian blind assembly utilizing a ladder drum and a method of assembling a venetian blind. The ladder drum includes pairs of slots for securing ladder lace cords. Each pair of slots includes a first slot that retains but does not grip the cord and a second slot for gripping the cord.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Springs Window Fashions LPInventor: Toralf H. Strand
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Patent number: 6976523Abstract: A foldable automobile shade for use in an automobile prevents sunlight from entering the automobile. The shade comprises a storage accessory having at least one a pocket or chamber, at least one mounting strap used to mount said storage accessory to a visor of said car; a pleated screen operatively connected to the storage accessory near a bottom of the storage accessory and a closure which maintains said screen in its folded position.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: Sunny E. L. Huang
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Patent number: 6976524Abstract: An apparatus for maximum work comprising central equipment comprising a refrigeration machine, a water heater, an evaporative cooler and hot and cold storage tanks. Airside equipment for providing supply air to a room or zone. A hot supply/return pipe, a cold supply pipe, and a cold return pipe. A water blending circuit comprising a hot supply runout pipe extending from the hot supply/return pipe and a cold supply runout pipe extending from the cold supply pipe, wherein the water blending circuit further comprises an upstream two position three way changeover valve comprising a first port, a second port, and a third port. The hot supply runout pipe connects to first port and the cold supply runout pipe connects to the second port. A modulating three way zone blending valve connected to the third port of the upstream two position three way valve, and a blending pump for pumping water through a roomside coil, so that return water exits the coil through a return pipe.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: Paul J. Walsh
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Patent number: 6976525Abstract: A radiator with a securing device for cooling the heat generating unit, which is attached to a base plate. The securing device basically is a locating part with a locating opening and disposed beneath the radiator to support and locate the radiator. There are secure arms with fixing holes extending radially from the locating part for being fastened to the base plate.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Asia Vital Component Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hsin-Cheng Lin
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Patent number: 6976526Abstract: A heat transport device includes an evaporator, a condenser, and a vapor channel and a plurality of liquid channels that connect the evaporator and the condenser. The evaporator generates a capillary force to circulate working fluid. This structure prevents the performance deterioration and malfunction due to the entry of vapor-phase working fluid into the liquid channels. Since the cross-sectional areas of the liquid channels gradually decrease from the condenser toward the evaporator, the capillary force at the liquid channels can be increased, and vapor-phase working fluid is prevented from entering the liquid channels. Wicks and the portions of the liquid channels adjacent thereto are filled with liquid-phase working fluid even after dryout occurs, stable operation is achieved.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Sony CorporationInventors: Takuya Makino, Masaki Hara
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Patent number: 6976527Abstract: A microcapillary pumped loop (CPL) for chip level temperature control includes two mating substrates which define an evaporator, a condenser, and a reservoir for a liquid. A first substrate includes a vapor line which couples vapor from the evaporator to the condenser, and a liquid line which couples liquid from the condenser back to the evaporator. A wicking structure for the evaporator is formed by etching in the second substrate. The wicking structure couples the evaporator to the reservoir and to the liquid line. The condenser includes a plurality of grooves formed in the second substrate which couples liquid from the condenser to the liquid line.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Jeffrey Kirshberg, Kirk L. Yerkes, Dorian Liepmann
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Patent number: 6976528Abstract: A spray cooling system for extreme environments for providing a desired enclosed environment for electronic devices regardless of external environmental conditions. The spray cooling system for extreme environments includes an enclosure that isolates the electronic components from the external environment, a spray unit within the enclosure for thermally managing one or more electronic devices, a pump unit fluidly connected to the spray unit, a heat exchanger unit fluidly connected to the pump, and a control valve fluidly connected between the heat exchanger unit and the pump. An independent chamber preferably houses a heater unit, a first power supply and a control unit, whereby the heater unit initially heats the coolant within the independent chamber to a minimum operating temperature prior to operation of the electronic components.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Isothermal Systems Research, Inc.Inventors: Charles L. Tilton, Douglas W. Miller, William C. Gustafson, William J. Beasley, Chester L. Turner
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Patent number: 6976529Abstract: A fin for a heat exchanger coil assembly and a method of manufacturing the fin is provided. The fin includes a heat transfer enhancement pattern which appears sinusoidal in shape. The base wavy pattern of the enhancement pattern includes two wavelengths within each tube row and includes seven discrete segments. Six of the seven segments are circular arc segments. The seventh segment comprises two linear segments which form a condensate channel. The segments are arranged in a particular order at specific distances offset (above and below) from a leading edge nominal air streamline (LENAS) by a fraction of a nominal fin pitch Pf. The LENAS is related to the “normal” base wavy pattern used in other fins.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: York International CorporationInventor: Douglas A. Kester
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Patent number: 6976530Abstract: A profile of the casing 20 is formed into a circular pipe shape, and the two gas coolers 10a, 10b are integrated into one body so that the longitudinal directions of the respective gas coolers can be substantially parallel with each other. Due to the above structure, it is possible to make the coolant flow smoothly in the casing 20 and stagnation of the coolant seldom occurs. Accordingly, as boiling of the coolant can be suppressed, it is possible to prevent the heat transfer coefficient from being remarkably deteriorated. Further, it is possible to suppress the generation of cracks, in the tubes 11, which are caused by heat stress.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignees: DENSO Corporation, Sankyo Radiator Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takayuki Hayashi, Youji Yamashita
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Patent number: 6976531Abstract: A heat exchanger in which a heat exchanger core is disposed within a casing which includes a side wall formed by bending a plate into the form of a sleeve in which edges of the plate are in adjacent, confronting relationship with an inwardly projecting, transversely extending deformation, the deformation being disposed between a pair of press members with one of the press members being transversely inserted within the sleeve. The press members are moved together to remove the deformation with resultant pivoting of the edges into abutting contact or overlapping relationship. The heat exchanger core is formed of a plurality of stacked plate pairs each having a plate in inverted orientation. Outwardly projecting ribs of anticlastic form are so formed in each plate that the ribs on each plate of each plate pair are interengagingly intersect with the ribs on the adjacent plate of the adjacent plate pair accurately to align the plate pairs in the heat exchanger core.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Dana Canada CorporationInventors: Michael A. Martin, Cindy W. Storr, Alan Ka-Ming Wu, Allan K. So, B. Timothy Miller, Christina Spirou
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Patent number: 6976532Abstract: Ceramic materials are converted to materials with anisotropic thermal properties by forming the ceramics into composites with carbon nanotubes dispersed therein and uniaxially compressing the composites in a direction in which a lower thermal conductivity is desired.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: The Regents of the University of CaliforniaInventors: Guodong Zhan, Joshua D. Kuntz, Amiya K. Mukherjee
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Patent number: 6976533Abstract: Improved An improved method and system for accessing subterranean deposits from the surface that substantially eliminates or reduces the disadvantages and problems associated with previous systems and methods. In particular, the present invention provides an articulated well with a drainage pattern that intersects a horizontal cavity well. The drainage patterns provide access to a large subterranean area from the surface while the vertical cavity well allows entrained water, hydrocarbons, and other deposits to be efficiently removed and/or produced.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: CDX Gas, LLCInventor: Joseph A. Zupanick
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Patent number: 6976534Abstract: A slip element and a method of manufacturing same according to which two or more inserts are placed in corresponding openings formed in a body member. The material forming the insert in one of the openings is stronger than the material forming the insert in another of the openings.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: Mike H. Sutton, Donald W. Winslow, Donald R. Smith, Don S. Folds
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Patent number: 6976535Abstract: Flowable devices provide communicate between surface and downhole instruments. The flowable devices having unique addresses are introduced into the flow of a fluid flowing in the wellbore. The flowable devices are used for providing information to a downhole controller and/or retrieving information from a downhole device.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Peter Aronstam, Per-Erik Berger
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Patent number: 6976536Abstract: A method of expanding tubing comprises locating an expansion tool in a section of tubing to be expanded, applying a fluid pressure to the tubing to create a fluid pressure expansion force and induce a hoop stress in the tubing, and applying a mechanical expansion force to the tubing via the expansion tool. The combined fluid pressure expansion force and mechanical expansion force is selected to be sufficient to induce expansion of the tubing.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Neil Andrew Abercrombie Simpson, David Michael Haugen
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Patent number: 6976537Abstract: A method is provided for reducing lost circulation when aqueous, oil, or synthetic based drilling fluid is used. The method includes injecting two fluids into the well bore and lost circulation zone. The first fluid is an aqueous liquid containing at least one polymer capable of absorbing water in an alkaline environment. The aqueous liquid has a pH that inhibits at least one polymer from absorbing water. The second fluid contains a hardening composition in a base fluid having a pH sufficient to increase the pH in situ to allow at least one polymer to absorb water and expand with the absorbed water and substantially increase in size to close off the lost circulation zone and allow the hardening composition to create a plug in the well bore and set up.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Turbo-Chem International, Inc.Inventor: Robin J. Verret
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Patent number: 6976538Abstract: Methods of treating subterranean zones and high density viscous aqueous treating fluids are provided. A high density viscous aqueous treating fluid of the invention comprises salt water comprising water and one or more oxidation resistant salts; a gelling agent; and a delayed oxidizing gel breaker.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.Inventors: J. Michael Wilson, Robert E. Hanes, Jr., Bradley L. Todd, Keith A. Frost
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Patent number: 6976539Abstract: A method of installing a liner in a drilled bore below a section of bore previously lined with casing comprises the steps of: running a length of liner into the bore such that at least an upper end of the liner is positioned in overlapping relation with at least a lower end of the casing; and plastically deforming a portion of the liner such that an external face of the portion forms an interference fit with an internal face of a portion of the casing. The interference fit preferably provides both hanging support for the liner and a fluid-tight seal between the liner and casing.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.Inventors: Paul David Metcalfe, Neil Andrew Abercrombie Simpson
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Patent number: 6976540Abstract: A method and apparatus for moving pipe on a rig floor between a number of different stations are provided. Generally the apparatus includes pipehandling equipment arranged to interact with an off-floor rack, a preparation opening, a borehole, and a storage area, such that tubulars can be loaded onto the drill floor, prepared at the preparation opening, loaded onto or off of the storage rack, and connected to a drill string while drilling is simultaneously conducted at borehole. In one embodiment, the system includes at least two pipehandling devices for communicating pipe between a storage area off the drill floor, a storage area on the drill floor, at least one preparation opening, and a drill opening.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.Inventor: Joe Berry
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Patent number: 6976541Abstract: An apparatus and method for forming or repairing a wellbore casing, a pipeline, or a structural support. An expandable tubular member is radially expanded and plastically deformed by an expansion cone that is displaced by hydraulic pressure. Before or after the radial expansion of the expandable tubular member, a sliding sleeve valve within the apparatus permit a hardenable fluidic sealing material to be injected into an annulus between the expandable tubular member and a preexisting structure.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: David Paul Brisco, Edwin Arnold Zwald, Jr., Chan Daigle, Gregory Noel, William J. Dean, Andrei Gregory Filippov, Ronald D. Nida, Robert Lance Cook, Lev Ring, Kevin K. Waddell, William Rusty Stephenson, Rune T. Gusevik
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Patent number: 6976542Abstract: A valve for downhole use allows flow of mud or completion fluids but closes when subjected to produced hydrocarbons. The flow through the valve is through an annular passage that features a sleeve preferably made of rubber. The passage remains open during completion operations, but when hydrocarbons are produced the rubber swells and the passage is closed off. Applications include completions involving long horizontal runs and small inside diameter laterals where access to a sliding sleeve with coiled tubing or a wireline run tool is not practical.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventors: Knut H. Henriksen, Cecilie T. Misiewicz
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Patent number: 6976543Abstract: A low pressure, extended coverage, fire protection sprinkler, e.g., of the upright type, suitable for use in protection of at least extra hazard and high piled storage occupancies, in accordance with the 1999 Edition of NFPA 13, has a body with an internal passageway extending between an inlet end and an opposite outlet end, and a deflector mounted to the body by at least one support arm and disposed in alignment with the axis and generally spaced from the outlet end of the internal passageway. The sprinkler has a predetermined K-factor, e.g., of greater than about 16.0. The sprinkler is configured and arranged to deflect flow of water generally radially outwardly and downwardly of the sprinkler in a predetermined spray pattern. Preferably, the predetermined spray pattern has a generally polygonal shape, e.g., a rectangular shape, when viewed at a predetermined distance below the deflector.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Grinnell CorporationInventor: Michael A. Fischer
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Patent number: 6976544Abstract: A sprinkler comprising a temperature-activated means (1), a housing (2), a central nozzle (4), a side nozzle (5a, 5b), a first channel (9-15-6-12-13) for guiding a medium to the central nozzle, and a second channel (9-15-17-14-7a) for guiding the medium to the side nozzle, the second channel being closed with a spindle means (8) while the sprinkler is in its standby state.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Marioff Corporation OyInventor: Göran Sundholm
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Patent number: 6976545Abstract: A device for switching operating modes for an at least partially rotational and percussive hand tool machine having an overload clutch, which is arranged between a hollow driving guide cylinder (3) containing an axially striking impact piston (2) and a rotating, driving crown gear (4) on the guide cylinder (3) and which can be switched into different operating modes using an externally manually switchable, axially displaceable switching member, wherein at least one operating mode is rotationally driven, wherein the axially displaceable switching member engages rotationally form-lockingly into a freely rotational coupling ring (6) of the overload clutch mounted relative to the guide cylinder (3).Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Hilti AktiengesellschaftInventor: Ralf Greitmann
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Patent number: 6976546Abstract: A filter system for filtering drill bit cuttings, shavings, and other abrasive articles from a drilling mud that is passed through an oil or gas well drilling system is provided that includes an overhead drilling system, a drill string connected to the overhead drilling system, and a mud filter for filtering the drilling mud, wherein the mud filter is disposed within a drilling mud fluid passageway that extends from the entry point of the drilling mud into the overhead drilling system and the entry point of the drilling mud into the drill string.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.Inventor: Neil Herst
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Patent number: 6976547Abstract: An underreamer for forming a cavity from within a well bore includes a housing adapted to be disposed within the well bore. The underreamer includes an actuator partially slidably positioned in the housing. The actuator comprises a first portion and a second portion. A cross-sectional area of the second portion is larger than a cross-sectional area of the first portion. The underreamer includes at least one cutter set, wherein each cutter set has a first end and a second end. The first end of each cutter set is pivotally coupled to the housing. The second end of each cutter set is pivotally coupled to a connector. An axial force applied to the actuator is operable to slide the actuator relative to the housing causing the second portion of the actuator to contact each cutter set and extend each cutter set radially outward relative to the housing from a retracted position to a first position. The actuator may also include a stop member proximate an end of the actuator.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: CDX Gas, LLCInventors: Monty H. Rial, Joseph A. Zupanick
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Patent number: 6976548Abstract: Self relieving seals of this invention comprise an elastomeric seal body having a first sealing surface and a second sealing surface for contact with respective drill bit sealing surfaces. The seal includes a pair of external surfaces that each extend along the seal body between the first and second sealing surfaces. The seal includes one or more relief ports that are disposed through the seal body and that have openings through each of the seal body external surfaces. The relief port can be specially configured, e.g., have different diameter sections of constant or variable dimensions, to provide a degree of control over pressure equalization through the seal body when the seal is loaded within the drill bit. The seal may include an element, e.g., solid, tubular, or porous, disposed within the relief port to provide a further desired degree of control over pressure equalization through the seal when the seal is loaded within the drill bit.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Smith International, Inc.Inventors: James L. Neville, James L. Larsen, Steven W. Peterson, Manikiran Bandi, Alan Lockstedt, Peter T. Cariveau, Alysia C. White, Anthony Griffo, Michael Siracki
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Patent number: 6976549Abstract: The invention relates to a drilling tool (1), in particular for working concrete, rock, masonry and suchlike materials, having a tool head with cutting body (5) which has at least one front rake face (9, 10), at least one rear flank ([lacuna] 18) and at least one front-end cutting edge (7, 8), the cutting edge (7, 8) separating the rake face (9, 10) and the flank ([lacuna] 18). In this case, the rake face (9, 10) is formed by at least two cutting faces (11, 13; 12 [lacuna]) merging into one another at at least one second cutting edge (15, 16).Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Hawera Probst GmbHInventors: August Haussmann, Bernhard Moser, Rainer Widmann, Marco Lang
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Patent number: 6976550Abstract: A front suspension system for a recreational vehicle such as a snowmobile has a lower A-arm assembly and an upper suspension arm for connecting each front ski to the chassis of the recreational vehicle. The lower A-arm restrains the front ski from moving backward or laterally while the upper arm connects to the top of the spindle to ensure that the spindle remains substantially vertical when the front ski encounters a bump.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: BRP Finland OyInventor: Esa Vaisanen
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Patent number: 6976551Abstract: A power-assist system for a bicycle by which the bicycle can be operated in various modes. There is a pedal-alone mode, a power-assist mode, a combined pedaling and power-assist mode, and a coasting mode. An overriding clutch is positioned between the pedal section and the sprocket, and a second overriding clutch is positioned between a speed reducing gear section, driven by a motor, and a power-assist shaft located in the crank housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2001Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: Harold Spanski
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Patent number: 6976552Abstract: A removable motorcycle armrest assembly includes a motorcycle having a backrest support. Each of a pair of posts is provided and each includes a front side and a back side. A brace plate is attached to and extends between each of the back sides of the posts. Each of a pair of panels is attached to one of the front sides of the posts and extends toward each other. A biasing member biases the top ends of the posts toward each other. Each rod of a pair of elongated rods has a first portion and a second portion attached together at an angle. A free end of each of the first portions is removably extendable into wells in top ends of the posts. The support may be removably extended between the base plate and one of the panels so that the biasing member biases the posts against the support.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: David M. Kicker
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Patent number: 6976553Abstract: This invention relates to multiple driven axle vehicles, and particularly to all-terrain vehicles equipped for rear wheel drive, four wheel drive, and on-demand front wheel drive. The invention is directed toward a system of switchable traction options allowing the vehicle operator to easily choose between different modes, such as rear wheel drive with an open or unlocked differential, rear wheel drive with a locked differential, four wheel drive with open differentials, four wheel drive with one locked differential, four wheel drive with two locked differentials, or rear wheel drive with on-demand four wheel drive.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.Inventors: Nathan Dahl, Jeff Lovold, Tim Wysocki, Scott Ostroski, Dan DeWolfe, Sean Sherrod
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Patent number: 6976554Abstract: A substantially V-shaped cylinder block is provided with a chain arrangement for transmitting the rotation of a crankshaft to camshafts, a chain cover for covering the chain arrangement at the front side of the cylinder block, and a mounting bracket fixed to a mounting portion disposed at the top of an engine bank of the cylinder block and to a mounting portion disposed at an outer side of a cylinder bank of the cylinder block.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Suzuki Motor CorporationInventor: Takayuki Tsuruda
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Patent number: 6976555Abstract: The present invention comprises a steering system selectively operable in one of three modes: steer-by-wire, electronic power assist steering (EPAS), and manual steering. The steer-by-wire system includes a driver interface system (DIS), a road wheel actuator system (RWAS), and a controller for monitoring and implementing the preferred control strategy. The steering system of the present invention operates normally in a steer-by-wire mode. In each of the EPAS mode and manual mode, the controller causes a clutch mechanism to engage, thus creating a mechanical linkage between portions of the DIS and the RWAS. In the EPAS mode, one of the road wheel actuator or the reaction torque generator is available to assist in the steering operation. Alternatively, in the manual mode, both the DIS and the RWAS are deactivated and the vehicle is steerable through entirely mechanical means.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Muqtada Husain, Brian Daugherty, John Oynoian
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Patent number: 6976556Abstract: Electric power steering apparatus includes an electric motor for producing steering assist torque corresponding to steering torque applied to a steering system, and a worm gear mechanism for transmitting the steering assist torque to the steering system. The worm of the worm gear mechanism has a pressure angle greater than a pressure angle of the worm wheel, so as to reduce an actual meshing pitch circle diameter of the worm in the worm gear mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasuo Shimizu, Katsuji Watanabe, Yasuhiro Terada
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Patent number: 6976557Abstract: A toeboard for a raised working platform advantageously cooperates with known construction systems to simplify securement and allow efficient setup. Each toeboard has connectors at either end of an elongate body member. Each connector has two fingers extending in a manner to intersect with a longitudinal axis of the elongate member. The connectors at opposite ends of the elongate body have an opposite orientation of said fingers where the fingers of one connector are 180 degrees out of alignment with the fingers of the other connector. This arrangement allows toeboards to connect easily in an end to end manner as well as in a perpendicular manner.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2004Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Aluma Enterprises Inc.Inventor: Allan James Becker
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Patent number: 6976558Abstract: A clean check is performed on a gearbox by flushing an oil-based fluid through the gearbox and then through a filter. The filter is then weighed to determine the weight of contaminants collected in the filter. The contaminant weight is compared to a predetermined level, wherein the gearbox is acceptable if the contaminant weight is below the predetermined level. This method is carried out on a system that includes a source of the oil-based fluid fluidly connected to an inlet of the gearbox and a filter fluidly connected to an outlet of the gearbox. A device such as a pump is provided for causing the oil-based fluid to flow through the gearbox and the filter.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2001Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: David Michael Bains, Robert James Puckett
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Patent number: 6976559Abstract: The invention relates to a piston compressor, particularly a hermetically enclosed refrigerant compressor, with a crank drive, having a crank shaft with an eccentric crank pin and an oil channel arrangement, and a connecting rod with a first piston-side connecting rod eye and a second pin-side connecting rod eye, said eyes having between them a connecting rod shank with a longitudinal channel, which opens into the connecting rod eyes. In this compressor, it is endeavoured to improve the lubricating conditions. For this purpose a bearing element is arranged between the crank pin and the second connecting rod eye, which is unrotatably connected with the second connecting rod eye under formation of an oil channel, the longitudinal channel communicating with the oil channel and a control arrangement being provided, which ensures a communication between the oil channel and the oil channel arrangement at least once per rotation of the crank pin.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2001Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Danfoss Compressors GmbHInventors: Frank Holm Iversen, Preben Bjerre
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Patent number: 6976560Abstract: An elevator car equalization computer program product includes software instructions for enabling a computer to perform predetermined operations, a computer readable medium bearing the software instructions, and a computer system including a processor and a memory. The predetermined operations include the steps of: (a) receiving at least one user input from at least one data input terminal; (b) determining a location of an originating demand unique to each of the user inputs; (c) determining a location of a destination demand unique to each of the user inputs; (d) calculating a total number of the user inputs received within a predetermined time interval; (e) determining whether the total number of user inputs is less than or more than a total number of available elevators; (f) assigning an elevator to each of the locations of the originating demand; and (g) forming temporary call response zones based upon the elevator assignments.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Inventor: William Newby
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Patent number: 6976561Abstract: An elevator system in which a car travels upward and downward among a plurality of floors. The elevator system includes terminals each having a wireless transmitting/receiving unit. One of the terminals is correspondingly provided for at least one of the plurality of floors and another of the terminals is correspondingly provided for the car and at least one of a counterweight. A mobile terminal is provided which enables wireless transmitting/receiving of signals between the terminals which are arranged within a predetermined distance of each other.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Nobuhisa Motoyama, Hiromi Inaba, Atsushi Kawabata, Yoshinori Ohkura, Kenichi Yamashita