Patents Issued in January 17, 2006
  • Patent number: 6986509
    Abstract: A mechanism for sensing the status of a media stack tray which dispenses media to a printing device, the media stack tray being associated with a dispensing device which dispenses media from the media stack tray. The mechanism includes a probe having at least two positions such that the probe is located in a first position when the media stack tray has an empty status and is located in a second position when the media stack tray has a loaded status. The probe is mounted relative to the media stack tray so that when the media stack tray has a loaded status the media is normally located between the probe and the dispensing device. The mechanism also includes a detector for detecting the position of the probe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, LP.
    Inventors: Seng San Koh, Wui Jein Richard Koh, Wei Chun Lim
  • Patent number: 6986510
    Abstract: An offsetting discharging apparatus with aligning member or a sheet discharge apparatus is provided with a sheet discharge device for discharging sheets, a storage device for receiving the sheets discharged from the discharge device, and an alignment reference member for aligning at least one edge of the sheets discharged to the storage means. Furthermore, the sheet discharge apparatus includes rotating bodies (belt unit) that contacts the sheets while the sheets are discharged by the discharge device to move the sheets discharged to the storage device to the alignment reference member. The rotating bodies for alignment do not hinder a discharge operation of discharge rollers of the discharge device, thereby fully utilizing a capacity of a sheet storage tray.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Nisca Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Saito, Shinya Sasamoto
  • Patent number: 6986511
    Abstract: A finisher for finishing papers sequentially driven out of an image forming apparatus includes a plurality of trays selectively movable to a single paper outlet. The finisher reduces a period of time necessary for designated one of the trays to reach the paper outlet, increases the number of papers which can be stacked on the trays, and determines the number of papers stacked with a simple configuration. Papers are prevented from returning from the tray to the paper outlet without complicating the configuration of the outlet. An outlet roller protrudes from the paper outlet, but does not interfere with the tray moving past the paper outlet. The trays protect the operator from injury and protect the structural elements of the finisher from damage despite their movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Yamada, Shinji Asami, Hiroki Okada
  • Patent number: 6986512
    Abstract: The present invention provides a word game apparatus and a method of playing said game. The word game apparatus comprising one or more sets of word units having a front, wherein said front has indicia identified thereon comprising an original word, one or more amended words and one or more location identification positions; a plurality of playing pieces having a front having indicia identified thereon representing a letter of an alphabet or a symbol, wherein during play of the game said playing pieces are arranged to form words and a particular formed word is assigned to a particular word unit and said particular word unit is assigned to a particular player, and a playing surface providing a means for displaying said word units such that only an original word is visible. The word game is played according to a playing procedure which provides for the stealing a word unit assigned to an opponent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Prodijeux Inc.
    Inventor: Rodolphe Charpentier
  • Patent number: 6986513
    Abstract: A board game where the winner is the first to form a ten character word. To speed play, a round ends and points are awarded for formation of an eight or nine character word. If no player wins in a preselected number of rounds, the highest point total wins. Play begins with game pieces following a set-up walk until five characters are accumulated, at which time a player is awarded a spot on a final walk. Landing on a “V,” “C,” or “Ideation” square enables a player to acquire a vowel, a consonant, or to follow instructions on a card drawn from a stack of Ideation cards, respectively. If a player is required to move backwards on any move, and if that player's game piece lands on a vowel, consonant, or choice of vowel or consonant square, that player must discard a vowel or consonant or either one, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: John A. Ferrante
  • Patent number: 6986514
    Abstract: A method of playing a casino table poker-type game comprises a player placing an Ante wager on the poker-type game. The dealer provides at least one hand to the player placing the wager on the poker-type game and at least two hands to the dealer. The player elects to a) fold, b) place a wager to compete against less then all dealer hands, or c) placing a wager to compete against all dealer hands. After the election has been made by the player, the dealer discloses all of the dealer's at least two hands. Wagers made in accordance with b) and c) are resolved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Shuffle Master, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger M. Snow
  • Patent number: 6986515
    Abstract: A method for an interactive exchange qualification card game designed to encourage social interaction among all players in a group. Any reasonable number of players may participate in the game. In the first mode of play, each player begins with a predetermined number of like symbol cards, such as World Landmark Theme cards, and collects the same number of different cards from the other players by the means of the exchange of cards. All players with appropriate collections at the end of the game qualify for a reward as determined by a game controller. If the number of rewards is limited and all players do not get a reward, secretly coded cards are selected, and player with the secret cards and the appropriate collection qualify for a reward as determined by the game controller. Further, there is another mode of play disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Michael Hyduk
  • Patent number: 6986516
    Abstract: A metal gasket is formed of a metal base plate for sealing between two members. The metal gasket has a bead around a cylinder bore and a bead around a fluid hole on the metal base plate. Coatings are applied on both surfaces of the beads, respectively. When the metal gasket is tightened, strong sealing surface pressures are locally generated at sealing line portions of the beads. The coatings are applied only on other portions except for the sealing line portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Ishikawa Gasket Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Susumu Inamura, Shinichi Sato
  • Patent number: 6986517
    Abstract: The invention relates to a coupling tube for a screwdriver head having a main body, a socket, a spring element and two engaging rings. One end of the main body is formed with an engaging seat for fixing a screwdriver's head therein by use of an engaging element. The engaging element made of steel bar is bent in the shape of a semicircular ring. The main body has an external annular slot for receiving the engaging element. The middle part of the annular slot is opened for communicating with the engaging seat of the main body. Accordingly, the prearranged engaging face of the engaging element can project into the engaging seat for improving the stability when the screwdriver's head is inserted into the engaging seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Peng-Ho Lin
  • Patent number: 6986518
    Abstract: A combined baby car seat and stroller includes a base member removably attachable to the seat of an automobile and a seat member removably engageable and lockable with the base member. The seat member includes a hide-away canopy connected thereto and a plurality of wheels connected to the bottom portion thereof for allowing the seat member to be rolled on a surface. The device further includes an elongated carry handle connected to select ones of the plurality of wheels and a telescopic member connected to the seat member and extendable outwardly and away therefrom for aiding an operator in advancing the seat member when removed from the base member. The device further includes a foot lever and a rocker member positioned below the plurality of wheels so that the seat member can be oscillated along an arcuate path. The seat member may be reclined for convenient travel sleeping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Gary Lee Besaw
  • Patent number: 6986519
    Abstract: A low profile chassis and suspension system for a road vehicle. The chassis supports a payload section or cargo compartment, such as for a delivery truck, ambulance, or shuttle bus. The chassis includes a largely planar frame having a top surface which is located beneath the rotational axes of the rear wheels. The wheel suspension system is particularly compact and close to the road surface. A trailing arm-type wheel support supports a stub axle in a cantilevered fashion. A spring urges the wheel support apart from the frame. A planar portion of the wheel support, the wheel support pivot joints, and the spring are located beneath the rotational axis of the wheel. In another embodiment, the frame includes a recessed pocket which facilitates use of ramp for wheel chair access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Aloha, LLC
    Inventor: Earl Dallas Smith
  • Patent number: 6986520
    Abstract: A two-wheel drive bicycle includes a main frame having a steering head, a seat tube, a cross bar and a hollow downtube. A main drive mechanism includes a housing, a driving spindle, at least one driven ring gear, a first driven shaft and a second driven shaft. The first driven shaft is rotatably connected to the housing and operably coupled to the at least one driven ring gear. The second driven shaft is, likewise, rotatably connected to the housing and operably coupled to the at least one driven ring gear. Front and rear wheel drive mechanisms include a series of shafts that are themselves coupled to and between the first and second driven shafts and the front and rear wheels. The main drive mechanism preferably includes a plurality of driven gears comprising a series of concentrically spaced ring gears. Each ring gear of the plurality of driven ring gears has an inner diametrical surface and an outer diametrical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventors: Samuel O. Smith, William J. T. Fleet
  • Patent number: 6986521
    Abstract: An improved vibration suppressed bicycle structure includes a frame and a handle set that have ceramic piezoelectric elements located thereon to couple with passive and active control energy consuming mechanisms to convert the vibration energy of the bicycle body into electric energy, which is consumed in heat or gathered for active control use. The invention can absorb vibration energy of the bicycle to enhance structural performance, reduce vibration, and give bicycle riders more comfort over long distance rides and improved maneuverability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Chung Shan Institute of Science and Technology
    Inventors: Shan Li, Shyh-Jang Sun, Dauh-Churn Liu, Sheuan-Perng Lin, Dar-Ping Juang, Cheng-Huan Wang, Guang-Shyang Ger
  • Patent number: 6986522
    Abstract: A folding bicycle presents a number of advantages over both conventional and other foldable bicycles. The folded size of 12 ×25×6 inches (305×635×153 millimeters) compares favorably to other folding bicycles, and its 11 lb. (eleven pound, or 5 kilogram mass) weight is significantly superior to even the closest lightweight model at eighteen pounds, and about half of the average portable bike weight of twenty-two pounds. The folded volume of the bike at 1800 square inches is slightly over one cubic foot. The portable bicycle has a folding stowage time of about 10 seconds, and a deployment time of about 6 seconds. A folding pedal and handle bar design contributes significantly to a folded lateral profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Daka Research Inc.
    Inventors: Clive Marles Sinclair, Alexander Joseph Kalogroulis
  • Patent number: 6986523
    Abstract: A boat trailer step assembly is provided with several features making the assembly adjustable in several respects, allowing the step to be placed at varying positions for different trailers and boats. The step is mounted on a support member made of overlapping parts that can be extended or contracted to obtain different heights. The support member is connected to a rotatable plate at a 45 degree angle. This allows the step to be extended outward in various directions. Adjustment of the step location in a generally front-to-rear direction is provided by sliding a clamping device along a beam of the trailer on which it is mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Arthur O. Bickford
  • Patent number: 6986524
    Abstract: A fifth wheel pin box assembly for towing a trailer behind a towing vehicle including a column, a top member secured to the column, a rubber shear spring, a first plate on the rubber shear spring attached to the top member, a skid pad, a second plate on the rubber shear spring attached to the skid pad, a rubber member bonded between the first and second plates, and a pin extending downwardly from the skid pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: David E. Heitzmann
  • Patent number: 6986525
    Abstract: A snow board, the camber of the side cut of which is accentuated, including a bottom surface (7) with a forward contact line (LCAV), which is a forward limit of the contact zone of the bottom surface (7) on a horizontal planar surface (PH), the board (1) being placed on the horizontal planar surface (PH), and a shovel (2), which is a forward part of the board (1) that is curved upward in order to overcome obstacles, the shovel (2) having a width of the shoulder of the ski line (LbV), defined as being a line on the bottom surface (7) in the shovel zone (2) at the location where its width (bV) is at a maximum, wherein the height (hAV) of the width of the shoulder of the ski line (LbV), measured between said bottom surface (7) and said horizontal planar surface (PH), is about 5 mm and to 15 mm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Skis Rossignol S.A.
    Inventor: Jean Liard
  • Patent number: 6986526
    Abstract: A ski binding arrangement for cross-country or telemark binding, and a ski boot adapted thereto with a boot sole, such that the arrangement includes a first engagement element on the binding side and a second engagement element on the boot side in the region of the front end of the boot sole, which in the position for use are engaged with one another and keep the ski boot in linear or areal contact with a ski or a binding plate attached to the ski, wherein the underside of the boot sole in the front region is conversely curved in the long direction and the first and second engagement elements are adapted to one another such that, when the back end of the boot is raised or lowered, the boot sole makes a rolling motion associated with a longitudinal shift of the contact line or area on the ski or binding plate and, by a lowering or raising of the front end of the boot, e.g. movement in the direction opposite to that of the back end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Rottefella A/S
    Inventor: Bernt-Otto Haughlin
  • Patent number: 6986527
    Abstract: A foldable transport device includes a center frame, side frames each pivotably connected to the center frame at opposite sides thereof for angular movement to a folded position where the side frames folded over the center frame and to an unfolded position; and cross members releasably secured to and extending between the side frames when the frames are unfolded. A cover, supported on the frames, may be used to provide a sheltered a space within the unfolded frame. The side frames function as runners in the unfolded position and have wheels for use in the folded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Steven R. Carver
  • Patent number: 6986528
    Abstract: An occupant restraining device (S1) is provided with: a shielding member (41) to be let off from the peripheral edge (DW/VW) of a vehicle window (WF) arranged in a door of a vehicle, so as to shield the window; and a let-off means (81, 86, 87) for letting off the housed shielding member (41) so as to shield the window (WF). The shielding member (41) and the let-off means (81, 86, 87) are arranged in the door (FD). A garnish (21) is arranged on the peripheral edge of the door (FD) for covering the housed shielding member (41) so that the shielding member (41) is let off. An airbag device (ABM) can be arranged in the vehicle without any problem even if the occupant restraining device (S1) is mounted together with the airbag device (ABM) on the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Michio Inoue, Chiharu Totani, Toshinori Tanase, Takuji Nagata, Shuji Inui, Shinji Oguchi
  • Patent number: 6986529
    Abstract: A vehicle occupant protection apparatus (10) comprises a seat belt system (50) having a buckled condition and an unbuckled condition, and a sensor (56) for determining the buckled condition of the seat belt system. An inflatable occupant protection device (12) has a deflated condition and an inflated condition. An inflator (32) is actuatable to provide inflation fluid to inflate the inflatable device (12). The protection apparatus (10) includes an electrically energizable mechanism (44) for venting inflation fluid from the protection apparatus (10). Electric circuitry (40) is responsive to a determination of the buckled condition of the seat belt system (50) and the inflated condition of the inflatable device (12), for actuating the electrically energizable mechanism (44) to vent inflation fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Kurt F. Fischer
  • Patent number: 6986530
    Abstract: Pad assemblies configured to be used in conjunction with stabilizer pads mounted onto stabilizer arms used to stabilize earth moving and other construction equipment. The pad assemblies are formed from either a resilient laminate or solid piece mounted onto a bracket which in turn is mounted onto the stabilizer pad. The pad assemble includes a support bracket, and a pad having a base captured in the support bracket and formed of a resilient material that defines a base surface. The pad is being retained by said support bracket and has a ground engaging surface opposite to the base surface and defined as an uneven ground engaging surface formed of separate ground engaging pad surface areas that terminate at different distances from the base surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Andry Lagsdin
  • Patent number: 6986531
    Abstract: The latch mechanism includes the shoe release lever pivotally attached to the support housing for pivotal movement about a lever axis parallel to the tilt axis between the latched position and the unlatched position. A tab extends from a slide to define a connection between the lever and the slide for moving the slide out of engagement with a tilt shoe thereby allowing rotation of the tilt shoe to the unlatched position. The connection, defined by the tab and opening, is spaced along the release lever from the lever axis and the distal end defined by a knob to provide compact packaging while retaining adequate mechanical advantage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Hitonobu Ohtsu, Albert C. Huber
  • Patent number: 6986532
    Abstract: A saddle tee and tap combination for making a fluid connection with an irrigation line in an irrigation system. The saddle tee includes a base having a passage therethrough, and a clamp thereon for engaging an irrigation line. The clamp holds the irrigation line in alignment with the passage, and compresses the irrigation line into an generally oval cross-section elongated in the direction of the axis of the passageway. The tap has a tip with a pointed end adapted to be inserted into the passageway so that the pointed end penetrates the wall of the irrigation line engaged in the clamp, in the direction of the elongation of the cross section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Tom King Harmony Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas A. King
  • Patent number: 6986533
    Abstract: A pipe coupling, which enables pipes to be assembled with the pipe coupling by an one-touch operation while maintaining the liquid-tightness at jointing portions. In the pipe coupling, a connection tube has holding shoulders formed at opposite predetermined inner portions of the connection tube and maximum diameter portions formed at both side portions of the connection tube outside of the holding shoulders. The connection tube has an inner diameter decreasing in a direction toward both mouths of the connection tube from the maximum diameter portions. Snap rings are inserted inside of the mouths of the connection tube in a compressed state. Packing members are tightly disposed in each of the maximum diameter portions. Jaw couplings are inserted in the mouths of the connection tube and each of the jaw couplings are assembled with a plurality of fixing jaws and having engaging protuberances. The fixing jaws are arranged in a circumferential direction of each of the jaw couplings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Join Top Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Eounjin Ko
  • Patent number: 6986534
    Abstract: A latch mechanism has an input member and an output member. The mechanism has a first coupled condition at which the input and output members are coupled such that movement of the input member from its first position to its second position causes movement of the output member from its first position to its second position. The mechanism has a decoupled condition at which the input member is not coupled to the output member. The mechanism further includes a block member, which, with the mechanism in the decoupled condition, further prevents at least one of the input and output member from moving to its respective second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Meritor Light Vehicle Systems (UK) Ltd.
    Inventor: Sidney Fisher
  • Patent number: 6986535
    Abstract: A latch device includes a movable member and a housing. The movable member is urged with an urging member to a position where a part of the movable member projects from the housing. When the movable member is pushed into the housing against a force of the urging member, a push-push type lock mechanism turns to a lock state and the movable member is locked at a push-in position. When the movable member in the push-in position is pushed into the housing again against the force of the urging member, the lock mechanism turns to an unlock state, so that the movable member is returned to the projecting position. The lock mechanism is provided on front and back surfaces of the movable member as well as on portions of the housing facing the front and back surfaces of the movable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Nifco Inc.
    Inventors: Masanobu Kawamoto, Shigemitsu Tomita
  • Patent number: 6986536
    Abstract: A bumper beam includes an open front section made from a high-strength material such as ultra-high-strength steel (UHSS) material, and further includes a mating back section made of lower strength material attached to a rear side of the front section along abutting flanges. The front and back sections combine to define different tubular cross sections along their length, thus providing selected stiffness and strength at critical areas of the bumper beam. The front section can be roll-formed, and the back section can be stamped, thus taking advantage of roll-forming processes' ability to form high-strength materials, while allowing the back section to have a more complicated shape and be stamped. For example, the back section can be made from a material selected from a group consisting of HSLA steel, aluminum, and/or polymeric material. The back section is attached to the beam using welding or mechanical attachment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Shape Corporation
    Inventors: David W. Heatherington, Scott C. Glasgow, Bruce W. Lyons
  • Patent number: 6986537
    Abstract: A multi faceted retrieval tool for use by an individual positioned above the ground in retrieving items beneath the location of the individual, comprising a series of hooks extensible beyond the periphery of the tool for engaging, securing and retrieving items which are susceptible to being engaged by a hook, and being nestable in the tool when not in use, and, further, having a magnet for the retrieval of items engageable by a magnet, and a line which is selectively extensible to engage the items to be retrieved and retractable once the item is secured to bring the item to the individual user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventors: Chad Robbins, Joey R. Cox
  • Patent number: 6986538
    Abstract: A device for storing and carrying hole saws comprises a stack pin and a retaining handle removably attachable to the stack pin. The stack pin has a widened “bun” or head at one end and a lateral keyhole slot near its other end. One end of the handle has a key-like element, by which the handle can only be detached from the stack pin when the key is properly aligned with the stack pin's keyhole slot. For use, the handle is detached from the stack pin by first orienting the handle to align the key with the keyhole slot and by then sliding the handle through the keyhole slot. Subsequently, hole saws are nested and stacked onto the stack pin, and the handle is re-attached to the stack pin, preventing the hole saws from being removed from the stack pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Robert J. Ecker
  • Patent number: 6986539
    Abstract: A fixing member (i.e., a connection cord fitting member), may be fixed to a counter-part member, such as a camera or an antenna, for retaining a fixed member, such as a connection cord. The fixing member includes a retention hole portion for retaining the fixed member, a cut portion or cutout portion for inserting the fixed member into the retention hole portion, and a clamp portion for clamping the counter-part member by resiliency. The fixing member can be used in a vehicle-mounted apparatus and a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventor: Hitoshi Morimura
  • Patent number: 6986540
    Abstract: A bed system for a pickup truck includes a first member adapted for securement to a first support component associated with a truck bed. The first member has a first surface for contacting cargo and a first edge portion extending at least partially along the periphery of the first member. A second member is adapted for securement to a second support component associated with a truck bed. The second member has a second surface for contacting cargo and has a second edge portion extending at least partially along the periphery of the second member. At least a portion of the second edge portion is oriented in at least a partially overlapping spaced relationship to at least a portion of the first edge portion at an interface. A cushioning element is located between the overlapping first and second edge portions at the interface. The cushioning element is resiliently compressible and permits relative movement between the first and second edge portions at the interface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Robb Louis Augustine, David Michael Edwards
  • Patent number: 6986541
    Abstract: The present invention is an integrated storage compartment for a truck bed liner. A divider panel and an enclosure panel are formed by either molding or cutting slits on three sides of the liner bottom or rear wall, respectively. The fourth sideforms a living hinge. The living hinge allows the unattached portion of the truck bed liner bottom to move freely about the hinge. The side walls of the truck bed liner include receiving channels into which the divider and enclosure panels are locked into place. The side walls also have a closure means which comprise horizontal protrusions that form a closure channel to receive the enclosure panel. Thus, an operator can position the divider panel to a 90 position with respect to the bottom and lock it into the receiving channels found on the side walls. The enclosure panel is rotated to a 90 position with respect to a base panel and is inserted into the closure means to form, in conjunction with the divider panel, an enclosed trunk storage compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Blackwood Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Haack
  • Patent number: 6986542
    Abstract: A retractable seat to be attached to a floor may include a seat cushion, a seat back rotatably supported on the seat cushion, and a link mechanism for supporting the seat cushion on the floor. The link mechanism includes a front leg and a rear leg that are pivotally connected to the seat cushion and the floor so that the seat can be switched between a use condition and a retracted condition. The front and rear legs respectively have a different link length so as to produce a difference between a rotating range of the front leg and a rotating range of the rear leg. The seat may further include a compensation mechanism for compensating for the difference between the rotating ranges of the front and rear legs within an operating range of the link mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Araco Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Taku Imajo, Makoto Sakai
  • Patent number: 6986543
    Abstract: A trim assembly comprises a substrate member forming at least a portion of the structural support of the trim assembly. A flexible skin overlies at least a portion of the substrate member and is coupled to the substrate. The substrate and flexible skin are configured to define a cavity having an opening. A back plate is mountable to the substrate and adapted to cover the cavity opening. A resilient foam pad contained within a pouch is positioned within the cavity to provide a soft feel to the trim assembly. The foam pad is inserted into the cavity using a tool that pulls a vacuum and compresses the foam pad. The foam pad is insertable into the cavity while in a compressed state and is adapted to expand so as to substantially fill the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Randy S. Reed
  • Patent number: 6986544
    Abstract: An improved method and device for the reduction of aerodynamic drag and for improved performance of multiple component vehicles by reducing the pressure on the front face of the trailing vehicle or vehicle component by controlling the flow in the gap between the leading vehicle component and the trailing vehicle component. An improved method and device for generating a reduction in the drag force on a bluff face object moving through air. The apparatus consist of a plurality of forward extending surfaces that are positioned adjacent to one another on the forward facing surface of a bluff face object and are aligned parallel to the object center line and perpendicular to the local flow direction. The reduction in drag force results from the summation of a plurality of local reductions in drag force generated by the interaction of vortex structures emanating from the leading edges of the plurality of forward extending surfaces with the forward facing surface of a blunt face object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Richard M. Wood
  • Patent number: 6986545
    Abstract: Method and device for suspending a cab (4) on a vehicle frame (3) using vertical orientation for both a first element (1) that absorbs shocks/vibrations from the vehicle frame (3) to the cab (4) and a second element (2) that acts as a load support between cab (4) and the vehicle frame (3)in the event of, for example, accident situations. The first and second elements (1, 2) are arranged on the device, which connects the cab (4) to the vehicle frame (3) by a firm connection between the first element (1) and the cab (4), or alternatively the vehicle frame (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Volvo Wheel Loaders AB
    Inventors: Ingemar Nilsson, Allan Ericsson, Jonny Lindblom, Leif Norling, Magnus Fornell
  • Patent number: 6986546
    Abstract: A sidewall of a trailer is formed from at least two composite panels joined together by a novel joining configuration. Each panel is formed from inner and outer thin metal skins and a plastic core sandwiched between the skins. A logistics plate and a splicing member are used to join the panels together and are secured thereto by rivets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventor: Rodney P. Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 6986547
    Abstract: An interior component for a motor vehicle has a first front surface region made from a first polyurethane, and a second front surface region integrated with the first region and made from a material different from the first polyurethane. For example, the second region may be carpeting or a region of polyurethane having a different color from the first region. In one embodiment, the interior component is a floor for a motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Parrish
  • Patent number: 6986548
    Abstract: The headrest (2) is liftable, comprises wings (11) and (12) and is provided with passages (3) for the belting (C) of the motorcar's safety belt. The backrest (1) does also characteristically comprise passages (4) for the belting (C) of the motorcar's safety belt, these latter passages because of the fact of being positioned in a lower position as compared with those of the headrest (2) being provided to be used when the child is of a short size so that it can thus be properly held back by the safety belt. A characteristic feature also lies in the fact that the wings (11) and (12) are fitted in a linked connection to the sides of the headrest (2), this latter having a mechanism (13, 14, 15 and 18) linking them to each other and locking them thus selectively setting them at a given angle with respect to the headrest (2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Jane, S.A.
    Inventor: Manuel Jane Santamaria
  • Patent number: 6986549
    Abstract: A seating element is provided, comprising a skeleton having a skin and a plurality of ribs pivotably connected with said skin. The skin forms a substantially flexible support area, which is adapted to support a seating force exerted by a body, e.g. a human sitting or lying on the seating element. The skeleton is configured in such a way that it cooperates to at least partially deform the support area in a direction opposite to the direction of the seating force as a result of the seating force. As a result a comfortable and ergonomic seating posture is obtained. The seating element with skeleton automatically counteracts all movements of the body, thus supporting the body in an optimum way.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Leif Kniese
  • Patent number: 6986550
    Abstract: A seat slide assembly for a fixed seating arrangement allows for controlled horizontal movement of a seat in relation to a fixed vertical seat post. The seat slide assembly includes a cover configured for attachment to the bottom of a conventional seat, and a seat slide top member attached to the underside of the cover. The bottom of the seat slide top member is configured to receive and attach a pair of parallel ball-type bearing assemblies located on opposite sides of the seat slide assembly. Each bearing assembly is mounted to the underside of the seat slide top member, so that the bearing assemblies move along with the seat slide top member on an upper wall defined by a base. A spring biased seat slide retainer handle is operatively attached to the seat slide top member, and includes a retainer tab that engages a one of a series of spaced slots on a flange extending downwardly from a side of the base, for incremental controlled movement of the seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven C Gevaert, Scott L Williams
  • Patent number: 6986551
    Abstract: A vehicle seat having a folding mechanism is comprised of a locking mechanism allowing or preventing seat sliding, a wire joined to the locking mechanism, unlocking or locking the locking mechanism when pulled or at rest respectively, a base member disposed above the locking mechanism, a first actuating member, rotatably supported on the base member, a second actuating member, rotatably supported on the base member coaxially with the first actuating member and joined to another end of the wire, allowing the wire to be at rest when in a forward position and pulling the wire when rotated by the first actuating member to a backward position when the first actuating member is rotated backward, an upper member rotatably supported on the base member, and an engaging projection member which is contactable with the first actuating member to rotate the first actuating member backward or forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Fuji Kiko Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuharu Ohba
  • Patent number: 6986552
    Abstract: An insert for a cutting tool has a conical cutting tip, and axially behind the cutting tip is a mid-section. Behind the mid-section is a cylindrical base. Where the insert is for use on a tool of a milling machine, the base has a diameter of at least 0.800 inch so as to be considerably larger than the standard base of inserts currently in use on such machines. The enlarged base protects the tool body to which the insert is attached from washaway. The invention is useable in other industries employing rotary cutting tools. In other industries, the insert is made with an enlarged diameter base so as to protect the tool body behind the insert from erosion or washaway. Indentations in the outer circumference of the base improve the rotation of the tool and provide channels through which loosened particles of hard material are directed, thereby further reducing erosion of the tool body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Inventor: Phillip A. Sollami
  • Patent number: 6986553
    Abstract: A wheel ornamentation assembly is provided for attachment to a wheel secured to a wheel hub with a plurality of lug nuts. The wheel ornamentation assembly includes a wheel ornamentation having an outboard surface and an inboard surface. The wheel ornamentation assembly also includes a plurality of retention legs extending axially from the inboard surface for engaging the lug nuts. The wheel ornamentation also includes a wire retainer cooperating with the retention legs to provide mechanical support to the retention legs and prevent the wheel ornamentation from disengaging the lug nuts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: McKechnie Vehicle Components (USA), Inc.
    Inventors: Eric Earl Jensen, Roger Andrew Renaud, David Browning Ferriss
  • Patent number: 6986554
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a power dissipation management system for a vehicle where a thermal condition of a plurality of driveline components is determined. The quantity of energy for each driveline component can absorb is determined based upon its thermal condition. A braking signal to one or more of the driveline components is provided based upon the quantity of energy each component can absorb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Spicer Off-Highway Belgium, N.V.
    Inventors: Mark RJ Versteyhe, Ivana A. Duskunovic, Steven Dumoulin, Christophe Thomas
  • Patent number: 6986555
    Abstract: A vehicle brake control system includes an electric fluid pump that, upon energization thereof, pumps brake fluid from a reservoir to a brake circuit at a position upstream of a pressure control valve, an inlet circuit connecting the inlet opening of the pump to a master cylinder, an inside gate valve installed in the inlet circuit, and a control unit that controls the pressure control valve, the inlet gate valve and the electric fluid pump and carries out a predetermined brake control to adjust the hydraulic pressure of the wheel cylinder by operating the pressure control valve. The control unit is configured to carry out a flow back control after completion of the predetermined brake control. The flow back control is a control wherein the inside gate valve is kept open having the electric fluid pump kept de-energized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masamichi Imamura, Gen Inoue, Yukihiko Inoue, Chiharu Nakazawa
  • Patent number: 6986556
    Abstract: A multi-media workstation having a master rail system for permitting horizontal adjustment of the various components of the workstation. The workstation generally includes a console having a work surface and a master rail system for supporting various audiovisual equipment. The master rail system includes a rail extrusion connecting at least two frames and having a longitudinal slot formed in at least one of its surfaces. The various components of the workstation each include a finger engaged in the longitudinal slot of the rail extrusion, wherein the component is able to be horizontally translated along a length of the rail extrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Forecast Consoles, Inc.
    Inventor: William G. Haberman
  • Patent number: 6986557
    Abstract: A three-piece slide assembly includes an inner slide segment, an intermediate slide segment and an outer slide segment telescopingly engaged with one another. Desirably, the slide assembly is capable of supporting a 1U or 2U internet server and has a compact cross-sectional area, allowing it to fit within a 1?×?? cross-sectional envelope. Additionally, a single arrangement of upper bearings and a single arrangement of lower bearings desirably support substantially the entire load carried by the slide. Desirably, both the upper and lower bearings are carried by an intermediate slide segment and contact both the inner and outer slide segments when the slide is in a fully closed positioned. The slide assembly desirably includes an automatic sequencing arrangement wherein rotation of the bearings results in the intermediate slide segment extending along with the inner slide segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Jonathan Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel John Kellenberger, John Nan-Heng Young, Cesar Cordero Mallari
  • Patent number: 6986558
    Abstract: The invention concerns a drawer slide with width equalization and, if necessary, centering, including a cabinet-side and a drawer-side slide rail for both sides of the drawer. At least one elastic, springy flexible width equalization element is on both sides of the drawer—each is located between the cabinet-side slide rail and the cabinet body, indirectly or directly by, for example, an angle rail. The cabinet-side slide rail is located, releasable, on the cabinet-attached angle rail, axially engaged, but still moveable crosswise/transversely and is lockable in the end position of the drawer. The advantage here is that any desired combination between the width equalization element and the slide rail can be set flexibly and, additionally, the drawer slide is easy to maintain and simple to repair or replace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2006
    Assignee: Grass America Inc.
    Inventor: Remo Egger