Patents Issued in February 13, 2007
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Patent number: 7175505Abstract: Aspects of the present invention include a method and an apparatus that may be utilized to adjust processing times in a substrate processing system. In one embodiment of the present invention, a pre-processing thickness measurement of a substrate while the substrate is in one of the polishing stations is taken. Then the substrate is processed in the polishing system for a predetermined processing time. A post-processing thickness measurement is taken while the substrate is in one of the polishing stations. A removal rate is calculated based on the pre-processing and the post-processing measurements and the predetermined processing time. A processing time is adjusted for one or more of the polishing stations based on the removal rate for use in subsequent processing of a production substrate.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2006Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Sen-Hou Ko, Harry Q. Lee, Wei-Yung Hsu
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Patent number: 7175506Abstract: The tool unit for the ultrasonically assisted rotary machining of a workpiece comprises a converter (23) including at least one electroacoustic transducer (22) for generating and transmitting ultrasonic oscillations, a tool (30) that is coupled to the converter, and a holder (21) in which the converter including the transducer is arranged and which is insertable at least partially in the retainer (11) of a tool spindle (10) and connectable thereto by means of a detachable connection (27).Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Fritz Studer AGInventors: Frank Fiebelkorn, Paul Stadler, Thomas Fankhauser
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Patent number: 7175507Abstract: A temporary gravesite marker for use in identifying a gravesite until a permanent gravestone is available includes a marker tablet which has a generally rectangular solid form with an upper surface to be marked with alphanumeric characters providing information regarding the deceased. The marker tablet is fabricated from a durable material and includes an upper surface and a substantially parallel bottom surface, both of which are substantially flat. The preferred marker tablet has a two-to-one (2:1) aspect ratio and measures 5½ inches by 11 inches with a 1 1/16 inch thickness. The density of the material selected, based upon the overall volume, yields a weight for the marker tablet of approximately ten pounds. The alphanumeric characters are inscribed into the upper surface of the marker tablet by means of a prepared stencil and by sandblasting.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Ceramica, Inc.Inventors: Douglas J. Light, Jeffrey S. McGuire
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Patent number: 7175508Abstract: The present invention provides a polishing apparatus for a semiconductor wafer in which a slide member and a swing holding member are provided in a polishing member that is provided so as to block an opening in a head housing, a slide guide member and a ring member are provided in the head housing, the ring member surrounds the periphery of the polishing member positioned in the head housing such that a predetermined clearance is formed between the ring member and the outer peripheral portion of the polishing member, and the polishing member is constituted to be capable of a reciprocating motion using air that is supplied into and discharged from the head housing. By means of this constitution, the present invention provides a polishing apparatus in which the linearity between a polishing thrust and air pressure in the head housing is increased.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Nikon CorporationInventor: Shigeto Izumi
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Patent number: 7175509Abstract: Truing of a grinder is performed by irradiating a laser beam onto abrasive grains on the outermost periphery of the grinder from the tangential direction of the grinder. Truing of the grinder for adjusting the number of working abrasive grains and the shape of the abrasive grains involved in the actual machining is performed under a non-contact condition and at highly accurately, thereby enabling highly accurate and highly efficient machining.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Itsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Munehisa Gunjima, Tomoaki Nakasuji, Kouji Yokota
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Patent number: 7175510Abstract: A method and apparatus for polishing a thin film on a semiconductor substrate is described. A polishing pad is rotated and a wafer to be polished is placed on the rotating polishing pad. The polishing pad has grooves that channels slurry between the wafer and polishing pad and rids excess material from the wafer, allowing an efficient polishing of the surface of the wafer. The polishing pad smoothes out due to the polishing of the wafer and must be conditioned to restore effectiveness. A conditioning assembly with a plurality of diamonds is provided. The diamonds have predetermined angles that provide strength to the diamond. This allows for an optimal rotation speed and downward force in effective conditioning of the polishing pad, while reducing diamond fracture rate.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Randy S. Skocypec, Adam P. La Bell, Wade R. Whisler
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Patent number: 7175511Abstract: A magnetic polishing method capable of easily and satisfactorily polishing the inner peripheral end face of a circular hole (1) at the center part of a disk substrate (2) even if the diameter of the circular hole is reduced. By this method, a large quantity of disk substrates with stable quality can be supplied, thermal asperity trouble and head crush can be prevented from occurring on a magnetic disk, and the density of the information recording surface of the magnetic disk can be increased.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Hoya CorporationInventors: Masaaki Ueda, Ryuichi Kashima
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Patent number: 7175512Abstract: A cutting chain bench grinder includes a self-centering vise that centers the cutting chain on an axis of rotation of the vise base. By centering the cutting chain to intersect the vise base axis of rotation, consistent top plate lengths and hook angles can be ground into left and right-hand cutters on a cutting chain. The vise base may also be adjusted horizontally in and out from the grinder base to align the vise base axis of rotation with the axis of rotation of the grinding wheel. The vise base may also be adjusted vertically relative to the vise base to vertically compensate for grinding wheel wear and to control grinding depth. A light tension spring may be used to bias the grinding head in both grinding and dressing positions. A down angle positioner may also be provided that rotates the cutting chain in the vise around a longitudinal centerline of the cutting chain.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Blount, Inc.Inventors: Kent L. Huntington, Daniel Haile
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Patent number: 7175513Abstract: A portable power grinder has a housing, a rotating output shaft with a grinding wheel mounting device, a grinding wheel safety guard adjustable between angular positions defined by apertures in the safety guard, and a manually operable safety guard arresting device engageable with an aperture. The arresting device has a lock slide movable on the housing and operable by an articulated lever connected at one end to the housing and at another end to the lock slide and being shifted by folding and unfolding, thereby moving the lock slide between a safety guard arresting position and a safety guard releasing position and locking the lock slide in the arresting position. The lock slide includes a spring exerting a force onto the safety guard in the arrested position. A lock spindle displaceably supported on the lock slide moves between a retracted safety guard locking position and an advanced position to lock the output shaft.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Atlas Copco Tools ABInventor: Richard Claes Folin
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Patent number: 7175514Abstract: An apparatus that mass polishes a variety of fiber optic cable connectors simultaneously. The apparatus includes a plurality of polishing plates, each capable of holding its own polishing film and pad, and having a varying height. The apparatus further includes a plurality of connector fixtures that may receive a variety of connectors at varying angles. Each connector fixture communicates with a corresponding polishing pad. Thus, fiber optic cable connectors having a variety of polished end faces may be provided with the apparatus. The apparatus also eliminates the potential for contamination among polishing films, reduces polishing steps, and saves labor and maintenance costs.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2001Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: CIENA CorporationInventors: Thomas Boyer, Waqar Mahmood, Keith Chandler, Andrei Cspikes
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Patent number: 7175515Abstract: A chemical mechanical polishing apparatus includes a polishing pad. A pad conditioner includes a static conditioner head having a surface area configured to contact and condition the pad. The surface area has a first end proximate to an axis of rotation of the pad and a second end remote from the axis of rotation of the pad. The first end defines a first arc length, and the second end defines a second arc length, where the first arc length and the second arc length are substantially identical.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: SilTerraInventor: Daniel Lynne Towery
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Patent number: 7175516Abstract: This invention relates to a hub and belt assembly for driving a poultry de-feathering machine and more particularly to a multiple bearing heat dissipating hub driven by a serrated timing belt. The hub assembly incorporates seals along a drive shaft to reduce wear caused by dirt. The timing belt synchronizes multiple picking hubs and reduces the friction driving required. The combination of a heat dissipating hub and the placement of seals along the drive shaft within the hub minimize maintenance and replacement.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2003Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: MemcoInventor: Robert Clarke
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Patent number: 7175517Abstract: The present invention relates to a semi-boneless poultry product and a method of making thereof wherein bones of a poultry carcass are removed and the remaining meat portion of the carcass forms an integral butchered cut that can be stitched closed and trussed, wrapped or netted to appear as a whole poultry carcass. The poultry product prepared in this way retains the aesthetic appearance of a whole poultry carcass, but is more easily prepared and served.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Perdue Holdings, Inc.Inventor: David F. Weakley
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Patent number: 7175518Abstract: A device for retaining and trussing the hocks of poultry carcass in juxtaposition and proximal to the body during processing, packaging, shipping, storage, and/or cooking. The present invention, including a hock retaining member, may be constructed of a unitary, plate-like member of resilient material and it includes two openings for fitting about and retaining the hocks, an anchor to be affixed to the poultry carcass, and a connecting member between the hock retaining member and the anchor. The connecting member provides a spring force to keep the hocks and thus the legs juxtaposed to the carcass and each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2006Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Volk Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Henry J. Volk
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Patent number: 7175519Abstract: The invention concerns an elastic band (11) for tying chickens (31) and other animals to be cooked, which band has an “8”-shape where a first and smaller loop (13) and a second and larger loop (15) are defined, the first and smaller loop being intended for tying the animal's legs (33) and the second and larger loop being intended for tying the neck (35).Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2002Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: FRA Production SpAInventors: Adriana Mignone, legal representative, Giuseppe Mignone, deceased
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Patent number: 7175520Abstract: A cab arrangement for a harvesting combine includes a harvesting combine having a body and a cab spaced-apart from the body. A platform is positioned between the cab and the body. The cab, the boy, and the platform define a passageway to allow an operator to visually monitor and access the body from the platform.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2003Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: CNH America LLCInventors: Robert A. Matousek, Jonathon E. Ricketts
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Patent number: 7175521Abstract: A multilevel game includes a base game in which game credits and free passes may be accumulated and saved for play in a bonus event. The bonus event comprises a tic tac toe-like game in which a player is required to correctly answer trivia questions in order to receive a marker in a space of a matrix. Upon correctly answering trivia questions or presenting free passes in lieu of correct answers to trivia questions associated with a prespecified number of spaces in a prespecified arrangement on the matrix, the player may be granted an award or access to a next-higher level of the bonus event. Nonwinners of the bonus event are returned to the base game. Various other features include “double-or-nothing” bonus play. The multilevel game may be effected by a gaming machine or a system that includes a gaming machine.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: IGTInventor: Monica A. McClintic
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Patent number: 7175522Abstract: A combination card game allows players to play 3 distinct games using one hand of cards. In a preferred embodiment, players place wagers on an Ante spot to play THREE CARD POKER®, a TRIPOLEY® spot to win odds, and a Best 2 Blackjack spot to play blackjack. A player can bet one, two or all three spots. Next, a three card hand is dealt to each player and to the dealer. If, after viewing his cards, a player has made the Ante wager, that player must make the Play wager or forfeit the Ante wager. A player who beats the dealer's three-card poker hand of Queen high is paid 1 to 1.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2001Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Shuffle Master, Inc.Inventor: Josef Alexander Hartl
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Patent number: 7175523Abstract: A gaming machine and a method of conducting a game of chance on the gaming machine are disclosed. In response to a wager from a player, the machine conducts a selection game including a plurality of selectable elements associated with respective outcomes. In response to a player's selection of one of the selectable elements, the machine awards the outcomes associated with the selected element and at least one of the non-selected elements. The awarded outcome may, for example, include a payoff, a bonus game, or awarding the outcome associated with yet another of the non-selected elements. If the awarded outcome includes the bonus game, the bonus game may re-trigger the selection game.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: WMS Gaming Inc.Inventors: Jason C. Gilmore, Larry J. Pacey
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Patent number: 7175524Abstract: A gaming device, wherein a player's skill at an action or event determines the player's success or failure in the round. The game is readily adaptable to becoming a pseudo-skill game that would be required in most gaming jurisdictions. In one pseudo-skill embodiment, the skill game is converted to a game employing skill, but which is controlled by a set number of successful outcomes. That is, the player keeps playing until the player's skill produces the set number of successful outcomes. In another pseudo-skill embodiment, the game only appears to the player as involving skill. Instead, the gaming device randomly determines when and how many times to produce a successful outcome and increase the player's award.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: IGTInventors: Mark W. Bansemer, James G. Nolz, Anthony J. Baerlocher, Andrea C. Hughs-Baird
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Patent number: 7175525Abstract: A method includes first revealing a limited set of potential game results to a player through a player terminal and then presenting the player with a set of graphic representations through the player terminal. Each respective representation has no apparent relationship to any particular potential result in the limited set of potential results. Thus, the player who is presented with the graphic representations cannot tell if any particular one of the representations is tied in any way to any particular potential result in the limited set of potential results. After presenting to the player the set of representations, the player is allowed to select at least one of the representations by making a player choice input through the player terminal. In response to the player choice input, at least one of the potential results in the limited set of potential results is assigned to the player, and this assigned potential result becomes the player's result for the game.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Multimedia Games, Inc.Inventor: Clifton Lind
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Patent number: 7175526Abstract: The invention comprises a new method of the playing traditional and non-traditional dice games by displaying locations some or all of the potential outcomes of the rolls of two, six sided dice on a screen and allowing users to place on screen wagers. The user may then select from among the locations after making dice wagers utilizing statistical payout statistics associated with the dice game used. This may allow for play on a touch screen allowing all of the traditional play of dice utilizing a display scenario wherein locations are provided to show wagers or on a traditional craps table modified for screen format as well as locations from which single dice or paired dice selections can be made. In addition a table layout is provided for allowing multiple players to play based on single roll with sequential players sequentially picking the dice outcomes from the group.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Lakes Entertainment, Inc.Inventor: Naif M. Moore, Jr.
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Patent number: 7175527Abstract: A gaming machine (10) has a display (14) and a game controller (36) arranged to control images displayed on the display (14). The game controller (36) is arranged to play a game (16) wherein one or more random events are caused to be displayed on and, if a predefined winning event results, the machine (10) awards a prize. The display (14) includes a plurality of credit meters (52, 54) each of which is allocated to a player. The machine (10) includes a credit allocating device (60, 62) such that, when each player deposits credit into the machine (10). each player's credit is credited to the player's allocated credit meter (52, 54).Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2001Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty LtdInventor: Natalie Bryant
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Patent number: 7175528Abstract: A computer-based customer tracking system passively identifies customers. Acquired biometric identification information is sent to a computer processor, which searches files in a library for matching biometric data. If no match is found, the processor opens a new file in the library. If a match is found, said processor stores in the file that a repeat identification has occurred. If said processor is only able to reduce the number of possible matches to two or more files, personnel determines if a match certain has occurred. If prior activity information stored in the file exceeds a predetermined level, the prior activity information is retrieved from the file and sent to a terminal, preferably at the location of the transaction. New information from the transaction is stored for future access. A selected or assigned personal identification number (PIN) reduces the time associated with, and improves the efficiency of, the identification process.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2003Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Biometric Recognition, LLCInventor: Blake Cumbers
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Patent number: 7175529Abstract: A method of administering a game in a wireless embodiment utilizing multiple transmitters connected to a game server and base station controller is disclosed. The method comprises generating game state data describing game state in a bingo game; passing the game state data to each transmitter in a plurality of transmitters; and transmitting from transmitters in the plurality in sequence the game state signal to a wireless receiver, wherein the game state data are transmitted repeatedly.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2002Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Game Tech International, Inc.Inventors: Michael W. Hartman, David Loar, Brett N. Keeton, deceased, Hilary Keeton, legal representative
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Patent number: 7175530Abstract: A server device communicates with terminal devices used by users and manages a baseball game. The server acquires messages which a first user has selected from a plurality of predetermined messages. The server then presents a corresponding message of the messages acquired to a second terminal device, which is operated by a second user, at corresponding times of predetermined times during a period when the users are playing the baseball game. The predetermined times include a game start time and a batting/fielding change time.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2002Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Konami Computer Entertainment Osaka, Inc.Inventors: Hidehisa Takahashi, Tatsuya Ishikawa, Kazuhiro Namba
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Patent number: 7175531Abstract: A constant velocity joint has an outer part, an inner part, and a full cage that is accommodated in a self-holding manner between these parts. The cage is formed with windows for holding balls inside races on the outer part and on the inner part. The cage is guided around a common center of curvature via spherical outer surfaces on the outer part and via spherical inner surfaces on the inner part. During assembly, the outer part and the cage can be slid inside one another in the direction of their component axes. This permits a particularly compact design of constant velocity joints with Stuber offset. Special openings on the outer part enable the balls to be inserted when the inner part is already connected to a shaft.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Volkswagen AktiengesellschaftInventors: Gregor Schaaf, Gerhard Kaiser
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Patent number: 7175532Abstract: A dual-sectioned automotive propeller shaft features a weakened area in a first section. Under an axial load, the first section buckles transversely to a longitudinal axis of the shaft to absorb substantially all of the energy exerted against the shaft. A second section of the shaft is thereby isolated from consequences of the axial load enabling its placement and proximity to other components mounted to the undercarriage of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventors: Nicolaos Tapazoglou, Hai Gu, Gerald F Burke, Troy M Cornell, James M. Culp, Mark J. Kirschmann, Douglas L. Nieset
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Patent number: 7175533Abstract: A method of head trimming a fastener blank in a cold-forging process comprises placing a fastener blank into a bore of a punch having an end face; supporting an underside of a head portion of the fastener blank with the punch end face; moving a die having an internal passage and a trim plate with a cutting edge toward the fastener blank; shearing the head of the fastener blank with the cutting edge of the trim plate; stopping movement of the die at an extended trim position where the cutting edge lies beyond an underside of the head portion of the fastener blank; ejecting the fastener blank from the punch bore and through the die passage to an opposite side of the die; retracting the die; and removing a scrap ring from around the punch by a stripper sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: PEM Management, Inc.Inventors: James S Franco, Thomas K Litzenberger
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Patent number: 7175534Abstract: A challenge course (10) comprising a frame (20) having a substantially horizontally oriented track (120), a vertically oriented column (60) fixed to and extending downwardly from said substantially horizontally oriented track beam (30), said vertically oriented column (60) terminating in a bottom portion that is fixed to a substantially oriented foundation (40). The track (120) has a channel (150) therein in which a moveable member (360) slides. The track (120) has interchanges whereby the moveable member (360) can be moved in one of different directions. Descending downwardly from said moveable member (360) is a safety cable (350). The safety cable (350) extending downwardly to a safety harness (600). A further embodiment includes the challenge course (10) that can be deployed and re-deployed by hauling with a motor-vehicle. Further, a participant can be secured to the track (120) while still on the ground before ascending to the activity height.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: James Allen Liggett
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Patent number: 7175535Abstract: A portable playground swing seat (10) is configured to interface with a playground swing and that includes an open-topped, rigid, cup shaped bucket (20) having a width compatible to a playground swing seat (22). The bucket is substantially oval in shape, having a raised back (24) with a hand hole (34) therethrough for manual portability. A removable soft fabric liner (42) interfaces the inner surface of the bucket to provide a supple and comfortable environment for a toddler when sitting within the portable swing seat. A five-point harness (50), which is adjustably affixed onto the bucket, is sized in length and contour to fit over the toddler's shoulders, chest and legs. Two rigid foldable attachment arms (54) are rotatably affixed onto the bucket for attachment to each playground swing chain.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: Peter A. Marmentini
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Patent number: 7175536Abstract: An input device apparatus for providing coordinate data indicative of the motion of an object to a computing apparatus, includes an elongated member translatable along and rotatable about a longitudinal axis, a swing arm attached to the object and to the elongated member such that movement of the object results in corresponding movement of the elongated member, and an engagement surface for engaging an input device of the computing apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2001Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Venture Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Angelo Tortola
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Patent number: 7175537Abstract: A putter has a center of gravity located rearward from the face and under the stroking pivot point. The polar moment of inertia of the putter is increased by moving the distribution of weight toward the rear of the head away from the contact surface. The sole of the putter has an optimized transverse radius and a raised front edge. The putter has an aiming mark that has a minimum area and a minimum length-to-width ratio and is brightly colored. The putter grip has a flat portion that is oriented to match the player's hand rotational position. The face of the putter has friction and energy transfer characteristics that are selected to influence ball motion if struck with stroking errors. The face loft angle cooperates with the face surface characteristics to influence ball launch angle and rotation.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: Frederic W Pollman
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Patent number: 7175538Abstract: A golf club grip being axially coupled about the end of a golf club shaft. The diameter of the golf club grip is progressively reduced from the interface between the golf club grip and the golf club shaft to the opposing cap end of the golf club grip. The external surface of the golf club grip is extended upwardly into an elevated, linear ridge which extends from the interface between the golf club grip and the golf club shaft to the opposing end of the golf club grip along the axis of the club shaft. The elevated ridge provides the basis for consistent positioning of the grip in the user's hand.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: R. Lee Miller
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Patent number: 7175539Abstract: A golf club head including a basal body having a metallic surface, and a multilayer coating deposited on the metallic surface, wherein the multilayer coating includes a clear first layer deposited on the metallic surface and a colored clear second layer deposited on the clear first layer, whereby the basal body is visible through the multilayer coating. Preferably, the basal body has a mirror finish surface, satin finish surface, orange peel finish surface or the like under the multilayer coating. The multilayer coating further includes an iridescent layer deposited on the colored clear layer, wherein the iridescent layer includes an iridescent material which is dispersed therein while maintaining a certain degree of transparence.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2002Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: SRI Sports LimitedInventor: Yoshinori Sano
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Patent number: 7175540Abstract: In a golf putter including a putter head including a head body formed from a metal, and a face insert formed from an elastic material and fixed in a putter face of the head body, the face insert includes a varied thickness portion increased in thickness from a zone adjacent a sweet spot of the head toward circumferential edges of the face insert.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: SRI Sports LimitedInventor: Yoshinori Sano
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Patent number: 7175541Abstract: A golf club head includes a body and at least one transparent cover. The body includes a striking face for striking golf balls and a hosel for coupling with a shaft. The body includes a crown in which at least one opening is defined. A perimeter delimiting the opening includes a stepped portion. The transparent cover is securely mounted to the opening of the crown. The transparent cover is made of a transparent material having a specific gravity smaller than 1.5 g/cm3 for reducing a weight of the crown of the golf club head and for shifting a center of gravity of the golf club head downward and rearward.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Fu Sheng Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Lai-Fa Lo
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Patent number: 7175542Abstract: A multi-piece solid golf ball is composed of a multilayer core having at least an inner core layer and an outer core layer, one or more cover layer which encloses the core, and numerous dimples formed on a surface of the cover layer. The golf ball is characterized in that at least one cover layer is made primarily of an ionomer resin, the following hardness conditions (1) to (3) are satisfied: (1) (JIS-C hardness of cover)?(JIS-C hardness at center of core)?27, (2) 23?(JIS-C hardness at surface of core)?(JIS-C hardness at center of core)?40, and (3) 0.50?[(deflection amount of entire core)/(deflection amount of inner core layer)]?0.75, the number of dimples is from 250 to 390 dimples, and the ball has an initial velocity of at least 76.8 m/s. These features enable the ball to travel a longer distance.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideo Watanabe, Atsuki Kasashima
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Patent number: 7175543Abstract: Disclosed herein is novel thermoplastic material and a golf ball utilizing the thermoplastic material of the invention. The golf ball (10) preferably comprises a core (12), a cover (16) and, optionally, a boundary layer (14). At least one of the core (12), cover (16) or boundary layer (14) of the golf ball (10) comprises a thermoplastic material according to the invention. The thermoplastic material comprises a partially to highly neutralized blend of acid and alkyl acrylate copolymers, which additionally comprise a fatty acid or fatty acid salt. A golf ball comprising a component that incorporates the thermoplastic material of the invention has a soft feel and resilience that is maintained or improved compared to a standard golf ball.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2006Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Callaway Golf CompanyInventors: Thomas J. Kennedy, III, Mark L. Binette
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Patent number: 7175544Abstract: A multi-piece solid golf ball comprising a solid core and a cover of two inner and outer layers surrounding the core. The outer cover layer has a surface formed with a plurality of dimples such that the product of the Shore D hardness of the inner cover layer and the outer cover layer, a proportion VR (%) of the total of the volumes of dimple, and the distortion of the core have a predetermined relationship. The dimples include at least three types of dimples which are different in at least one of a diameter, a depth, and a value V0 which is the volume of one dimple space defined below a plane circumscribed by the dimple edge divided by the volume of a cylinder whose bottom is the plane and whose height is the maximum depth of the dimple from the bottom.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2001Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Bridgestone Sports Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hisashi Yamagishi, Hiroshi Higuchi, Junji Hayashi, Akira Kawata
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Patent number: 7175545Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method of forming a golf ball that contains an interpenetrating polymer network, or IPN, which includes at least two polymeric components, in one or more of the layers. In one preferred embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method of forming an intermediate or cover layer that contains an IPN.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2003Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Acushnet CompanyInventors: Manjari Kuntimaddi, David A. Bulpett
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Patent number: 7175546Abstract: Golf ball 1 has multisurface dimples 4a. The multisurface dimple 4a has a central concave face 7 and six inclined faces 8. The inclined face 8 extends obliquely upward from the edge 9 of the central concave face 7 up to the phantom sphere. Two multisurface dimples 4a are adjacent each other sharing a boundary line 10 on spherical surface interpositioned therebetween. Total length of the boundary lines 10 that exist at the site where multisurface dimples 4a are adjacent each other is equal to or less than 2400 mm. Proportion of the multisurface dimples 4a occupied in total number of dimples is preferably equal to or greater than 70%. Proportion of the number of the boundary lines 10 occupied in the number of sites where multisurface dimples 4a are adjacent each other is equal to or greater than 70%.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: SRI Sports LimitedInventor: Takeshi Asakura
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Patent number: 7175547Abstract: A teeing device includes a ball magazine an actuator having a tee magazine, and a base connected to the ball magazine and the actuator by a common passage. Pressing the actuator downward places a tee and in the ground with a ball set on the tee.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: Barry Naus, Jr.
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Patent number: 7175548Abstract: A multiple sports, universally positionable, adjustable net-type backstop system mounted to a pole, such as a basketball hoop pole, comprising an outrigger assembly that is vertically and horizontally adjustable and rotatable 360° on a vertical axis, so that the net can be selectively positioned in front, behind or to either side of a basketball backboard. The outrigger assembly is mounted on the support pole via a horizontally pivotable bracket assembly which permits a net assembly retainer bracket to be pivoted down to a convenient height, such as from chest height down to as low as ground level, for ease and safety in mounting and removing the net assembly. The vertical and horizontal adjustability, 360° rotation, and pivoting functionalities are very important safety features, in that the user need not use a tall step ladder to mount and adjust the position of the net, or remove it for storage.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: John M. McNulty
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Patent number: 7175549Abstract: A basketball training aid and method requires a player to jump to sufficient height to see a basket over a curtain, and to shoot over the curtain. The training aid comprises an easily adjustable stand for positioning the curtain. The curtain blocks the player's view of the basket. The aid is adjusted to an individual player to challenge the player to achieve a minimum height to see the basket and to shoot over the aid. The player must coordinate jumping, seeing the basket, and releasing the ball at the apex of the jump. As a result, muscle memory is developed thereby improving player performance.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: Rudolphus LeFlore
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Patent number: 7175550Abstract: A low profile, baseball training aid device to provide a proper target for the pitcher and a positioning aid for the catcher receiving the pitcher's throw. The device, preferably fabricated of a thermoplastic material, comprises a base section mounting a pair of side sections, where the side sections define pitching locations within and outside the ‘strike’ zone to thereby provide a more precise targeting location for the pitcher. In a preferred embodiment, the side sections may be provided with a color distinguishable surface to visually distinguish the respective side sections from the base section.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventors: Terry Bellah, Jr., Mike Laney, Danny Pralgo, Mike Haverland
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Patent number: 7175551Abstract: A removable basketball assembly includes a housing section securely mounted to a selected portion of the backboard and an anchor section removably positionable into the housing. A rim section is pivotally connected to the anchor section and extends outwardly therefrom. A mechanism for locking the anchor section with the housing section after the anchor section has been positioned therein is also included. The assembly further includes a mechanism for resiliently opposing downwardly forces exerted on the rim section such that a player can offset the rim section from the horizontal plane without permanently detaching the rim section from the anchor section. The housing section includes a rear wall provided with a plurality of holes for receiving a plurality of fastening members therethrough respectively. A protruding support compartment is integral with the rear wall and has a plurality of sidewalls and a front wall integrally connected for defining a cavity therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Inventor: Scott Hamilton
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Patent number: 7175552Abstract: A ball bat includes a substantially tubular frame having a handle portion and a primary hitting portion. The handle portion is formed of a non-steel material. The hitting portion is formed separately from, and coupled to, the handle portion. The hitting portion is formed of a steel and has an inner surface and an outer surface. At least a portion of hitting portion is carburized forming a carburized layer.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Wilson Sporting Goods Co.Inventors: Mark A. Fritzke, Bradley L. Gaff, Douglas G. Guenther
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Patent number: 7175553Abstract: An inflatable sport ball, such as a basketball, a football, a soccer ball, a volleyball or a playground ball, is provided with a self-contained inflation mechanism, or multiple self-contained inflation mechanisms, for inflating or adding pressure to the ball and a pressure sensor and pressure indicator to indicate the internal pressure of the ball. The inflation mechanism is a pump which is positioned and retained inside of the ball and which is operable from outside of the ball to pump ambient air into the ball. The pressure indicator provides a numerical indication of the internal pressure of the ball as measured or determined by the pressure sensor.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2005Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Russell CorporationInventors: Ronald P. Laliberty, Michael Maziarz
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Patent number: 7175554Abstract: A hydraulically controllable constant speed drive, includes an input shaft (10) provided with an input pulley (1), an output shaft (20) provided with an output pulley (2) and a drive belt (3). Each pulley (1; 2) is provided with two pulley sheaves (11, 12; 21, 22) that are mutually axially displaceable under the influence of a hydraulic pressure to be exerted in a piston-cylinder assembly (14, 15; 24, 25) associated with the pulley (1, 2) and that define a tapered groove of variable axial width wherein the drive belt (3) is accommodated. An input spring (17) is provided that realizes an axial force urging the pulley sheaves (11, 12) of the input pulley (1) towards each other to prevent slip of the drive belt (3) when the hydraulic pressure is negligible.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2001Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Van Doorne's Transmissie B.V.Inventors: Johannes Gerardus Ludovicus Maria Van Spijk, Hendrikus Adrianus Arnoldus Pelders