Patents Issued in January 2, 2007
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Patent number: 7156550Abstract: Apparatus according to this invention for plasticating a resin polymer, especially polypropylene, includes a barrel having an inlet, outlet, and inner surface. A screw, located within and closely spaced from the inner surface of the barrel, has a longitudinal axis extending from the inlet toward the outlet, and includes length sections arranged in a series along the axis. The screw includes a core and a main flight located on and projecting radially from the core, extending in a helix along the axis, and having a push side and a trailing side. The screw sections include a feed section, a transition section following the feed section, a metering section following the transition section, and a barrier melting section following the metering section.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Xaloy, Inc.Inventors: Timothy W. Womer, Walter S. Smith
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Patent number: 7156551Abstract: Ultrasound transducer temperatures are measured in response to a temperature dependent property of the ultrasound transducer. The temperature is measured without addition of new electronics or hardware retrofits of the transducer. By implementing software and/or hardware on the ultrasound system rather than the transducer, the temperature is measured in order to provide a level of fault protection. The upgraded or new ultrasound system uses either old or new transducers while still providing temperature measurement. For example, the temperature of the lens or window is measured as a function of changes in attenuation or acoustic velocity. The receive beamformer already implemented on many ultrasound systems is used to measure a temperature dependent property of the lens or window. As another example, the dielectric constant or capacitance of one or more transducer elements is measured using additional hardware in the ultrasound system.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Siemens Medical Solutions USA, Inc.Inventors: Bhaskar Ramamurthy, John Douglas Marshall, Sevig Ayter, Jan-Ulco Kluiwstra, Jerry D. Hopple
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Patent number: 7156552Abstract: A temperature sensor system includes a body and window arrangement. The body defines an air intake and is flush mounted to a mobile platform having a boundary layer. The window arrangement is integrated into the body and transfers a first signal and receives a second signal. The second signal represents energy from the first signal that is reflected by air particles beyond the boundary layer. The second signal is processed to determine a temperature beyond the boundary layer. The air intake receives air particles, transfers a first set of the air particles to a first air vent into the mobile platform, receives the first set of the air particles from a second air vent from the mobile platform, vents the first set of the air particles, and vents a second set of the air particles that bypass the first air vent.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: University Corporation for Atmospheric ResearchInventor: Rex J. Fleming
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Patent number: 7156553Abstract: A portable radiation imaging system is provided which is capable of always performing imaging in a state where the tilt of the radiation emitted from a radiation source in relation to the detection surface of an image detection device is substantially perpendicular. The system is equipped with a tilt adjustment means that makes the tilt of the radiation in relation to the detection surface of a radiation image detection device substantially perpendicular by changing the tilt angle of a radiation source based on an angular signal representing the degree of tilt of the radiation in relation to said detection surface output by an angular signal output means, and a command means that generates an exposure command to the radiation source when the tilt of the radiation to be emitted from said radiation source in relation to the detection surface of said radiation image detection device is substantially perpendicular.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Tanaka, Kazuo Shimura, Takeshi Ohkubo
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Patent number: 7156554Abstract: Method for compensating for image faults in a digital image recording which has been created by an x-ray system consisting of a radiographic source, an anti-scatter grid and a digital x-ray detector such as an image amplifier or a solid-state image detector, said image faults resulting from decentering, defocusing or defects in the anti-scatter grid or by the Heel effect and causing an intensity reduction of the primary radiation falling on the x-ray detector, characterized in that the actual reduction in intensity is measured through the anti-scatter grid and correction parameters are determined based on the measured values recorded which are then used to correct the x-ray image recording.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Marcus Pfister
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Patent number: 7156555Abstract: A bulk bag comprising a bottom wall and at least one side wall extending upwardly from the bottom wall is provided with at least one pocket secured to the exterior of the side wall and extending substantially vertically. The pocket receives a support member which maintains the side wall of the bulk bag in an upright, open configuration.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: B.A.G. Corp.Inventors: Joe Ronald Richardson, Jr., Bradley Matthew Eisenbarth, Bobby Glenn Brown
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Patent number: 7156556Abstract: A stand-up packaging pouch manufactured in three-dimensional form or flattened form and provided with at least front face portion and rear face portion sides formed from packaging material having a pleat which is formed by folding a part of the packaging material in a three-fold strip form and adhering the inner faces of this folded part is constituted such that when the pouch is opened out into three dimensions, the pleat, formed in the same plane as the peripheral face portion, is positioned at a substantial right angle to a bottom face portion, thereby concealing the bottom face portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 25, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Plast CorporationInventors: Sakaru Takahashi, Hiromichi Inagaki
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Patent number: 7156557Abstract: A bearing arrangement (2) in a manual transmission for transferring torque between at least a first guide surface (14b) on a swivel element (14), which can swivel and which is fixed along the bearing relative to the manual transmission, and a second flat guide surface (19a), which can move in the longitudinal direction relative to the bearing (2) and which is supported with the swivel element (14) so that it can swivel at least in the bearing (2). The bearing holds a selector shaft (4) so that it can move in the longitudinal direction and so that it can also swivel, wherein the selector shaft (4) is provided with an adapter (19).Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: INA-Schaeffler KGInventors: Klaus Krämer, Boris Landa
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Patent number: 7156558Abstract: The linear motion drive system is capable of automatically remove a clearance between a moving body and a linear shaft when the moving body and/or the linear shaft is abraded. The linear motion drive system comprises: the moving body linearly and reciprocally moved along the linear shaft; a contact body contacting the linear shaft; and a pressure unit provided to the moving body, the pressure unit pressing the contact body so as to apply pressure to the linear shaft. The pressure unit includes: a press section contacting and pressing the contact body; a biasing member biasing the press section toward the linear shaft; and a locking mechanism holding the press section.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Yugen Kaisha Hama InternationalInventor: Tomio Hama
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Patent number: 7156559Abstract: Disclosed is a method of forming an optical monitoring or transmitting light guide and a resulting apparatus that begins by bonding a bundle of optical fibers together using an epoxy and polishing the distal end of the bundle of optical fibers to create an optical aperture. The ratio of fiber size to binder particulate size of the epoxy used in the bonding process is sufficient to maintain the integrity of the bundle of optical fibers during the polishing of the distal end. The method positions the bundle of optical fibers into a protective sheath and a connector. The coefficient of thermal expansion of the epoxy used in the bonding process matches that of the connector. Once assembled, the invention positions the connector through the opening in the surface of a device, such that the distal end of the bundle of optical fibers is either recessed in, substantially flush with, or extends from the surface of the device through which the connector extends, depending on field-of-view requirements.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: The Johns Hopkins UniversityInventors: Leo R. Gauthier, Jr., Louis A. Mattes, James E. McDonald
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Patent number: 7156560Abstract: An alignment assembly (20) is provided for holding alignment sleeves that each aligns the ends of a pair of optic fiber ferrules (22, 26) projecting from two mating connectors (12, 14), which assures that the mating connectors will always be mated in their proper relative orientations to avoid unacceptable insertion losses and the connection of the wrong pairs of fibers. The alignment assembly includes a housing (34) formed by two identical housing halves, and includes two identical locating pins (40, 42) mounted on the housing at opposite sides of the housing axis, each pin having having a pin end (91–94) projecting from each face of the housing. One pin has a large diameter end (94) projecting from a front housing face (100) into a large diameter locating hole (52) in a connector and the other pin has a small diameter end (93) projecting from the same front housing face into a small locating hole (51), to assure proper orientation of the two mating connectors.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Gregory Alan Seeley
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Patent number: 7156561Abstract: An optical fiber connector plug includes a housing through which extends a cable containing at least one optical fiber. A ferrule, which is supported by the housing, is provided for receiving the optical fiber. The ferrule has a mating facet and an opposing rear facet located in the housing. The ferrule has at least one guide pin thru-hole and at least one optical fiber thru-hole extending between the mating facet and the opposing rear facet. The guide pin thru-hole has an opening portion extending inward from the mating facet. The opening portion is tapered outward to meet the mating facet in an oblique manner such that the opening portion has a diameter in the plane of the mating facet that is greater than a diameter of a remainder of the guide pin thru-hole.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2006Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Meriton Networks US Inc.Inventors: Naresh C. Patel, Glenn Gerard Wilder, Gerald Nykolak, Lars Erik Eskildsen
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Patent number: 7156562Abstract: An apparatus opto-electronic module that is flexible in design such that components of different types and dimensions can be incorporated into the module without straying from certain mechanical standards requirements is described. Generally, an opto-electronic module of the present invention includes a first substrate that supports an opto-electronic device and thereby the optical port, a second substrate that includes the electrical port, and a flexible connector that electrically connects the first and second substrates. The flexible connector allows for the first substrate and the second substrate to be positioned in various orientations with respect to each other so that optical and electrical components of various sizes can be utilized and still remain in compliance with a set of mechanical standards.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: National Semiconductor CorporationInventors: William Paul Mazotti, Brian Scott Huss
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Patent number: 7156563Abstract: After a tolerance of width B during the mounting of a photoelectric transfer element 8 is previously set, a holder 3 is formed so that a dimensional error A on the end portion of the holder 3 on the side of the photoelectric transfer element 8 in directions parallel to an optical axis 4 satisfies a condition of A<B with respect to the tolerance of width B, and then, a substrate 9 on which the photoelectric transfer element 8 is mounted is caused to contact the end face of the holder 3 on the side of the photoelectric transfer element 8 to form an optical module 1.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Enplas CorporationInventor: Shimpei Morioka
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Patent number: 7156564Abstract: A blade driving device for use in cameras of the present invention includes a base plate having an exposure aperture, an ND filter blade that is supported rotatably around a supporting shaft on the base plate and is moved to a position withdrawn from the exposure aperture and a position facing the exposure aperture, and an electromagnetic actuator that drives the ND filter blade. This electromagnetic actuator includes a frame member joined to the base plate, a rotor which has a drive pin for exerting a driving force and rotates within a predetermined angle range with one end of which being supported to the frame member and the other end of which being supported to the base plate, and an exciting coil wound around the frame member and the base plate. Therefore, the structure of the electromagnetic actuator for driving a shutter blade, a diaphragm blade, an ND filter blade or the like can be simplified and reduced in cost, and this makes it possible to reduce the size and thickness of the device.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Nidec Copal CorporationInventors: Nobuaki Watanabe, Shigeru Yamagishi, Tohru Eguro
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Patent number: 7156565Abstract: In a camera, a dual-blade shutter has a pair of shutter blades supported for opening and closing movement to uncover and re-cover an exposure aperture, and a shutter driver that projects into respective overlapping slots in the shutter blades and is supported for shutter opening and closing movement. A high impact striker is movable against a strike portion on the shutter driver to initiate shutter opening movement of the shutter driver, then moves beyond the strike portion, and is returnable past the strike tab to be reset. A fixed post projects into an elongate slot in the shutter driver to support the shutter driver for shutter opening and closing movement and to allow the high impact striker to shift the shutter driver out of the way of the high impact striker so that the high impact striker can be returned past the strike tab without causing the shutter blades to be moved open.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Eastman Kodak CompanyInventor: Wayne E. Stiehler
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Patent number: 7156566Abstract: A thermal printing assembly comprised of a first flexible section and a second flexible section joined to such first flexible section. The first section of such assembly is a thermally sensitive media that contains either a thermal transfer ribbon, a dye sublimation ribbon, or a direct thermal sensitive substrate (such as thermal paper); the thermally sensitive media is adapted to change its concentration of ink upon the application of heat. The second section of such assembly is a flexible support with two sides, at least one of which has a smoothness of less than 50 Sheffield Units and contains particles with a Knoop hardness of less than about 800 and the other side has an adhesive coating designed to remove dirt and debris from surfaces it contacts during use.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: International Imaging Materials, Inc.Inventors: Jennifer Johnson, Daniel J. Harrison, Jim Ventola, Barry L. Marginean, Dennis Gambon
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Patent number: 7156567Abstract: A keyboard having an input region that provides a set of input elements designed to complement a separate pointing device such as a computer mouse. These input elements enable both the dominant and non-dominant hand to work easily together to perform various functions, which in turn, makes “consumption” and “composition” tasks more efficient. The input region may be spaced laterally from the alphanumeric or “QWERTY” section of the keyboard. The elements include a scrolling member, first and second groups of keys, and an application switching device. The scrolling member may take the form of a rotatable member. The rotatable member may have an asymmetric outer profile and/or be frustum-shaped. The first group of keys preferably includes a Back key and a Forward key. The first group of keys and the scrolling member make performing “consumption” tasks more efficient. The second group of keys preferably includes a Cut key, a Copy key, and a Paste key.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Microsoft CorporationInventors: Hugh E. McLoone, James H. Cauthorn, Jonathan A. Hayes, Carl J. Ledbetter, Steven N. Bathiche, William H. Vong, Kenneth V. Fry
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Patent number: 7156568Abstract: A tape made up of a base tape having a front printing surface and a rear adhesive surface, and a release tape covering the adhesive surface is mounted on a printing apparatus. A plurality of print images are printed on the printing surface in a manner arrayed in a longitudinal direction of the printing tape, and the printing tape is cut in the widthwise direction thereof. Connection cutting is performed such that at least a widthwise part of the release tape remains connected as a connection portion in a space between respective adjoining print images.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Noriaki Miyasaka
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Patent number: 7156569Abstract: A wall-mounting image processing apparatus (A) includes a machine housing (90) mounted on a substantially vertical wall surface (H), and an image reading/writing head (X) disposed in the machine housing. The image reading/writing head (X) includes a substrate (4) having one surface (4A) on which a plurality of light receiving elements (4a) are arranged in a row. Part of said one surface (4A) forms an excess surface (49) projecting laterally from a head case (1), and the printing elements (4b) are arranged on the excess surface (49).Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 1999Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Rohm Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hisayoshi Fujimoto, Hiroaki Onishi, Toshihiko Takakura, Norihiro Imamura
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Patent number: 7156570Abstract: A cushioned implement grip for an hand held implement which serves the dual purposes of increased user comfort and providing an improved gripping surface to better hold the implement. The grip is a generally tapered cylindrical shape and may further include gripping rings as raised or indentation structures on the surface of the grip. The invention may be slid on to the implement outer surface proximate the gripping end of the implement for use with an existing device. Alternatively, the grip may be formed integrally with or assembled onto an implement during manufacture or assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Cotapaxi Custom Design and Manufacturing, LLCInventor: Carl Cetera
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Patent number: 7156571Abstract: A combination pen, pencil and circular marking implement that can be utilized as a pen or pencil writing tool and for circular ink marking on printed surfaces for word game and puzzle solution includes a central passageway for accommodating ink cartridges or lead pencil cartridges encompassed by an ink reservoir that communicates with a cylindrical marking die for circling numbers and letters, and the marking die capable of advancement or retraction by rotation of a tool gripping collar attached to the body of the combination writing and marking implement whereupon rotation of the tool gripping collar engages internal cams for actuating the advancement and retraction of the marking die so that either the pen/pencil writing function or the circular ink marking function can be selected for use.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventors: Josephine A. Mook, James Gwinn
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Patent number: 7156572Abstract: A device for packaging and applying a substance may comprise a receptacle for containing the substance and at least one housing in flow communication with the receptacle. The at least one housing may be configured to receive an applicator element and may comprise a side wall and an end wall. The device may also comprise at least one applicator element for applying the substance. The at least one applicator element may comprise a first portion configured to abut the end wall when the at least one applicator element is at least partially received in the at least one housing and the first portion is in an uncompressed configuration. The at least one applicator element may also comprise a second portion comprising at least one recess. The second portion may be configured to abut the end wall when the at least one applicator element is at least partially received in the at least one housing and the first portion is in a compressed configuration.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: L'Oreal S.A.Inventor: Jean-Louis H. Gueret
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Patent number: 7156573Abstract: The writing implement of the invention comprises: a) a body including an internal reservoir of ink and having a writing tip projecting from its front end; b) a capillary connector serving to transfer ink between the reservoir and the writing tip; and c) tip support arranged at the front end of the body to support the tip and assemble it with the capillary connector. The implement includes a compact one-piece capillary unit obtained by sintering thermoplastic powder, and constituting simultaneously the capillary connector and all or part of the tip support. The capillary connector and all or part of the tip support are constituted by a compact one-piece capillary unit preferably obtained by sintering thermoplastic powder.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: ConteInventor: Vincent Bedhome
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Patent number: 7156574Abstract: A transparent drain and flush valve component combination detachably connected between a vehicle drain outlet and a disposal conduit which leads to a sewage receptacle. The apparatus includes a main body having a pair of end plates which are joined to the body by fasteners. The end plates and the body are separated by mated flanges adapted to rotate with respect to each other. An elastomeric O-ring between the flanges not only seals but accommodates rotation of transparent attachment pipes for both the vehicle and the disposal conduit. Also, a shut-off valve is included in the body which is manually operated and takes the form of a slide or gate valve which can partially or fully open or close fluid communication between the pair of attachment pipes. A pressurized water supply is selectively attached to an attachment pipe for introducing pressurized water to the vehicle plumbing system, including the holding tank for flushing and rinsing purposes.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Roger Garst
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Patent number: 7156575Abstract: The present invention relates to a shaft-hub connection having an attachment flange and a clamping element, particularly a clamping ring, attachable thereto, by means of which the shaft end assigned to the attachment flange may be friction-locked to the attachment flange, with an interposed bushing which receives a slip torque. The present invention is based on the object of refining a device of the type initially cited in such a way that the lifetime of the attached components in the drivetrain is increased. This object is achieved according to the present invention in that the bushing is designed in multiple parts in the axial direction.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Atec-Weiss GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Rudolf Weiss, Patrice Millet, Rudolf Scheithauer
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Patent number: 7156576Abstract: Molded ribs are provided for use in connection with traffic channeling devices, such as drums, which employ external ballasting collars, such as molded rings or truck tire rings. The ribs are disposed at spaced intervals near the bottom of the external wall of the drum, for improving contact between the drum wall and the internal diameter of the ballasting collar, in order to eliminate undesirable separation of the drum and collar during ordinary use, and to prevent inadvertent rotation of the drum relative to the collar.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Traffix Devices, Inc.Inventors: Jack H. Kulp, David C. Gertz
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Patent number: 7156577Abstract: A vibratory concrete finishing tool includes an elongated handle formed with a cylindrical configuration having an uppermost end and a lowermost end. A concrete working device has a planar bottom surface adapted to engage a wet concrete surface, and a receiver for removably receiving the lowermost end of the handle. A clamping and vibration transmitting arrangement is coupled externally to the lowermost end of the handle. An engine-driven vibratory mechanism is fixed to the clamping and vibration transmitting arrangement so that the vibratory mechanism is held in spaced relationship with the handle. The vibratory mechanism has a spinning crankshaft assembly with an eccentric weight mounted thereon.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2006Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Richard M. Rozinski
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Patent number: 7156578Abstract: An aquifer recharge valve assembly comprises a valve movable along the interior of a pipe section to open and close aquifer recharge openings through the pipe section. The position of the valve controls the extent to which the recharge openings are available for delivery of recharge water into the aquifer. The valve may be a seamless resilient cylinder which expands due to well head pressure to assist in sealing the recharge openings when the valve is closed.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Kent R. Madison
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Patent number: 7156579Abstract: Disclosed is a process for manufacturing underground caverns suitable in one embodiment for storage of large volumes of gaseous or liquid materials. The method is an acid dissolution process that can be utilized to form caverns in carbonate rock formations. The caverns can be used to store large quantities of materials near transportation facilities or destination markets. The caverns can be used for storage of materials including fossil fuels, such as natural gas, refined products formed from fossil fuels, or waste materials, such as hazardous waste materials. The caverns can also be utilized for applications involving human access such as recreation or research. The method can also be utilized to form calcium chloride as a by-product of the cavern formation process.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Clemson UniversityInventors: James W. Castle, David A. Bruce, Ronald W. Falta, Lawrence C. Murdoch
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Patent number: 7156580Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show an interlockable drainage system insertable into a ditch that includes two or more liner sections. Each liner section includes a plurality of corrugations that are asymmetrical. The interlockable drainage system also includes a flared channel extending from opposing edges of the liner sections. A shoulder is formed in the opposing ends of the liner sections. A plurality of bosses is formed on the shoulder. The plurality of bosses on one shoulder is compressibly connectable to the plurality of bosses on an opposing shoulder, thus connecting one liner section to another. A connector is provided for added interconnectability of the plurality of bosses. This abstract is provided to comply with rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure, but this abstract is not to be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of any claim.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: FastDitch, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth L. Suazo, Isaac Suazo, Dawn S. Harder, Juan Griego, Julian Suazo
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Patent number: 7156581Abstract: A method and system for improved environmental remediation. A method comprising establishing an initial remediation protocol; applying at least one initial motive force according to the initial remediation protocol; monitoring the effect on the site resulting from the application of the at least one initial motive force; modifying the remediation protocol to improve the performance of the remediation using information gleaned from the monitoring of the site; applying at least one motive force according to the modified remediation protocol; and repeating monitoring, modifying, and applying in a more or less continuous fashion until the remediation is complete.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventors: Patrick W. Zomer, Eric J. Macking
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Patent number: 7156582Abstract: An inspectable tunnel comprises two opposite, vertical trays (1), whereof one is equipped with pallets (2) used to hold cables or conduits whilst the other has supports (26) whereon a plurality of hinged lids (15) can rest. The latter are connected to the pallets (2) and can have two positions; an appreciably vertical one to form an independent compartment joined to the two adjacent pallets, and the other position is appreciably horizontal and resting on the supports (26), so that the compartment thus defined is accessible from the outside.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Angel Garcia Ballesteros
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Patent number: 7156583Abstract: A compensating suspension element that includes a flexible cable, a flexible pipe and a catenary riser pipe and a connecting device connecting the flexible cable, the flexible pipe and the riser without buoyancy.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Petroleo Brasileiro S.AInventors: Isaias Quaresma Masetti, Ana Paula Dos Santos Costa, Luis Claudio Sousa Costa, Julio Eduardo Dutra Ribeiro
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Patent number: 7156584Abstract: The invention concerns a method for setting medium or high power electric cables (2) in the ground, which consists in digging a trench (14) evacuating the materials derived from the trench (14) towards a treatment device, for example by crushing, depositing at least a duct or an assembly of three installation ducts in the trench (14), backfilling the trench (14) with the treated materials and setting in said installation duct (1), at least a medium or high power electric cable (2) by pushing it while injecting water (6a) under pressure into the installation duct (1) so as to use the water (6a) as carrier and discharge fluid for the heat energy resulting from friction between the cable (2) and the installation duct (1).Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2002Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignees: Entreprise Hydraulique Et Travaux Publics—E.H.T.P., PlummettazInventors: Claude Trichard, Gérard Plumettaz, Joël Perelle, Giovanni Pozzati, Bernard Censier
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Patent number: 7156585Abstract: A method of advancing a mole to define a passageway through a composition between first and second locations spaced from each other a substantial first distance. The method includes the steps of: attaching the mole to a cable; providing a support; providing a cable pulling assembly on the support; and operating the cable pulling assembly to cause a pulling force on the cable to be continuously applied through the cable pulling assembly to the cable and therethrough to the mole to thereby cause the mole to be advanced in a path a substantial second distance at least partially over the first distance between the first and second locations.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Pettibone, LLCInventors: Yong Wang, Jacob E. Kupp
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Patent number: 7156586Abstract: A floating foundation for wind turbines is disclosed, where the foundation essentially comprises at least three submerged buoyancy bodies connected to the lower end of the tower of the wind turbine at a common node member situated well above the surface of the sea. The buoyancy bodies are connected to the node member by means of relatively thin leg sections, whereby wave load on the foundation is reduced. By applying the foundation according to the present invention, stress concentrations and torques in the node member are reduced, whereby it becomes possible to apply a relatively lightweight and hence cheap node member. The overall weight of the construction is thereby reduced and hence the volume of the buoyancy bodies necessary to counteract the overall weight of the construction.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Vestas Wind Systems A/SInventor: Erik Nim
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Patent number: 7156587Abstract: A reinforcing geotextile mat and an embankment method using the same. The mat comprises support member for supporting backfilled soil at one end or both ends of the mat. The support member comprises a horizontal support section for supporting the backfilled soil in a vertical direction; a vertical support section for supporting the backfilled soil in a horizontal direction; and an inclined support section defined with openings through which the backfilling soil passes and inclinedly embedded in the backfilled soil. The method comprises the steps of positioning a reinforcing geotextile mat on the ground or hardened embankment soil; inserting external support members in horizontal, vertical and inclined receiving portions of the mat; and backfilling horizontal, vertical and inclined support sections of the mat with soil, and then placing and hardening embankment soil on the mat. These steps are implemented one or more times.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Soo Yong Kang
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Patent number: 7156588Abstract: A cutting head for a rotating cutting tool for metal cutting operations. The cutting head has an axially adjustable cartridge which is an integral single piece. A slit divides the cartridge into a clamping portion and a main body portion, the clamping portion being resiliently connected to the main body portion. An insert pocket for retaining a cutting insert is formed by a widening of the slit so that the cutting insert is securely retained in the insert pocket between the main body portion and the clamping portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Iscar Ltd.Inventors: Moshe Elbaz, Henri Shahin
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Patent number: 7156589Abstract: A tool holder of a machine tool, wherein a holder rear end part is fixed to the front end part of the spindle of the machine tool, a tool receiving surface part (8d) for receiving the rear end face of a shaft-like tool (11) fixed to a holder front end part so that a closed space in contact with the rear end face can be formed and mist cutting fluid passages (8f, 9c) for leading mist cutting fluid fed from the front end part of the spindle to the closed space (12) are formed in a holder body at a center of rotation, and exhaust passages are formed for opening a part of the tool receiving surface part in contact with the closed space (12) to the atmosphere, whereby even when the shaft-like tool (11) is small in diameter and the amount of the mist cutting fluid flowing out to the atmosphere through a passage hole (11a) in the shaft-like tool is small, the liquefied cutting fluid can be prevented from being accumulated in the mist cutting fluid passages by maintaining the flow velocity of the mist cutting fluid iType: GrantFiled: May 12, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Horkos CorpInventors: Shinsuke Sugata, Tadashi Makayama
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Patent number: 7156590Abstract: A quill lock assembly for locking a quill of a device such as a drill press is described. The quill lock assembly includes a cam assembly and a handle connected to the cam assembly. The cam assembly is connected to the device, such as with a mounting bracket or the like, and is capable of rotating for alternately engaging and disengaging the quill. The cam assembly is self releasing, allowing a user to translate the quill toward a work piece and release the cam assembly from engagement with the quill in one motion.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Craig A. Carroll, Jeffrey D. Weston
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Patent number: 7156591Abstract: The invention in a preferred form includes a frame assembly having a load bearing surface and a hitch engagement. The hitch engagement includes a lifting bar and a hitch guide. A bogey assembly may be further attached to the frame. The bogey assembly may include a wheeled axle. The high mobility trailer includes a frame having a pair of transversely spaced rails. The frame has a forward portion and a rearward portion and includes a hitch engagement having a lifting bar selectively fixed to the forward portion of the rails. The lifting bar is selectively movable between an up-position and a down-position. The frame further includes a cross beam fixed to the rails at a position rearward from the lifting bar. The cross beam has a hitch leg guide.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Tru-Hitch, Inc.Inventor: Martin A. Marola
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Patent number: 7156592Abstract: The present Invention is an apparatus for controlling a load in a vehicle, particularly a pickup truck where the load is longer than the bed of the truck. The apparatus comprises a channel mounted to or defined by the bed or tailgate of the truck. A load-restraining member slidably engages the channel to adjust for loads of different sizes. The load-restraining member also rotatably engages the channel and may move between an upright position for use and a horizontal position for storage. The load-restraining member may be secured in the upright position.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Stephen J. Cava
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Patent number: 7156593Abstract: An adjustable tie-down assembly includes a pin having a first end and a second end. A lock plate is disposed proximate the second end and a sliding block is partially received within an opening of a rail. The block is adapted to receive the pin. A tie-down loop is disposed proximate the first end and at least one spring member is disposed proximate the sliding block. The spring member is adapted to bias the tie-down loop in a first direction away from the sliding block and the spring member is adapted to secure the lock plate to the rail.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2005Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Sportrack, LLCInventors: Ronald G. Saward, John H. Harberts, John Edward Klinkman
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Patent number: 7156594Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide an apparatus comprising a first arm defining a pair of opposing ends, each of said opposing ends attached to a restrainer; a second arm defining a translatable end to which a restrainer is attached and an opposing end attached to said first arm; a third arm defining a translatable end to which a restrainer is attached and an opposing end attached to said first arm; and a first restorer attached between said second arm and said third arm, said first restorer resisting relative motion between said second arm and said third arm.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventors: Michael R. Witt, Wladyk Muzyka
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Patent number: 7156595Abstract: A method and apparatus for determining fastener axial loading includes a fastener insert having an arched bottom surface, which deflects correlative to the level of axial loading. A load indicating mechanism determines axial loading by measuring the amount of deflection experienced by the arched insert. In addition, the arched insert stores elastic energy which is added to the overall elastic energy of the fastener, thereby aiding the fastener integrity during use. The system comprises a zeroing mechanism and full-scale adjustment mechanism for calibration of the system, and an apparatus for measuring in-service load.Type: GrantFiled: March 27, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Inventor: Ronald C. Clarke
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Patent number: 7156596Abstract: A blind rivet (1) includes a rivet body (3) having a rivet body flange (2) integrally formed therewith, and a mandrel (5) passing through the rivet body and protrudes from the rivet body flange. The mandrel (5) has a large diameter head (6) at the end of the rivet body on the opposite side of the rivet body flange. An external thread portion (13) is provided in a region of the mandrel adjacent to the rivet body flange (2). A sleeve (14) is formed separately from the mandrel (5) and the rivet body (3), and is disposed adjacent to the rivet body flange (2). The sleeve (14) includes a sleeve flange (15) for sandwiching a second attachment member (22) between the sleeve flange and a first attachment member (21), and a deformable swageable portion (17) to be deformed radially in a region of the external thread portion, so as to form an internal thread portion (33) in the inner surface thereof. The rivet body (3) and the mandrel (5) are retained as attached to the first attachment member.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Newfrey LLCInventor: Takanori Makino
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Patent number: 7156597Abstract: A dual bar code for detecting contamination. When no contamination is present, a first bar code identifies the product. When contamination is present a second bar code identifies the presence of contaminants.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2003Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: SIRA Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Robert M. Goldsmith, Catherine H. Goldsmith, James G. Woodaman
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Patent number: 7156598Abstract: A fastener is configured for use in the manufacture of molded plastic components that will be subsequently attached to other components by the fastener. The low profile head portion of the fastener has a rounded contoured and convoluted top surface to facilitate the flow of plastic material around the head portion during the molding process. The underside of the head portion is formed with a square face surrounded circumferentially by circumferential land surfaces that provides a high pull-out force resistance for the fastener. The square face on the underside and convoluted top surface of the head portion provides a high spin-out torque resistance without sacrificing the pull-out force resistance. The rounded edges of the head portion are compatible with molding processes to allow the flow of plastic material to fully encapsulate the head portion within the molded plastic component.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Patricia Tibbenham, David Dean, Wieslaw Zaydel, Michelle Winowski-Zaydel
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Patent number: 7156599Abstract: A cage nut assembly includes a nut and a cage wrapped therearound. The nut and/or the cage are provided with a number of stand-offs. The stand-offs reduce the amount of bearing surface interface between the cage and the nut thus reducing the possibility that the two parts will stick to each other after a bath is applied to the mating surface, and thus to the cage nut assembly, as the cage is welded to the mating surface. The stand-offs can be configured such that the cage nut assembly can move through the bath in a horizontal position, an upside down position, or a sideways position, substantially without the cage and nut sticking to one another.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Textron Inc.Inventors: James Patrick Clinch, Paul Douglas Purdy