Patents Issued in March 27, 2007
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Patent number: 7195243Abstract: A method of playing a four-card poker game by at least one player and a banker who is preferably also the dealer. The player has the option to wager against the dealer, wager against a predetermined payout schedule, or both. Additional options of a progressive wager and/or a bad beat wager are also possible with the present game.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Kings Gaming, Inc.Inventors: James T. Kenny, Larry Kekempanos
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Patent number: 7195244Abstract: A pai gow-type game in which a player wagers on one or more of a group of player hands, and where the chances of winning are not enhanced by the skills of the player and no discretion in the arrangement of hands is vested in either the player or dealer. A number of player hands and one or more banker hands are dealt on a playing surface and players wager as to which player hand or hands will beat the banker hand or hands. Each of the banker and player hands is arranged into a high hand and a low hand where the high hand has a higher rank than the low hand. A player hand is a winning hand if the player high hand has a higher rank than the banker high hand and the player low hand has a higher rank than the banker low hand. A player hand is a losing hand if the player high hand has a rank that is equal to or lower than the banker high hand and the player low hand has a rank that is equal to or lower than the banker low hand. Players that wagered on a winning player hand are paid based on the amount of the wager.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: New Vision Gaming & Development, Inc.Inventor: John Feola
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Patent number: 7195245Abstract: A dartboard has board member, and the board member has a plurality of target blocks to be stuck by darts. The back side of the board member has an induction layer and a magnetic member. The magnetic member provides a fixed magnetic field, and the induction layer has a substrate and a circuit on the substrate. A dart with a steel iron or iron alloy point sticks into the board member, and disturbs the distribution of the magnetic field provided by the magnetic member, causing electromagnetic induction and inducing a current in the circuit of the induction layer to provide an automatic score.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Forhouse CorporationInventors: Francis Chung Hwa Pan, Wei-Lung Tai
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Patent number: 7195246Abstract: A sealing material for sealing liquid composed of a seal main body of resin, having a U-shaped cross section and a concave groove opening to an axis direction, and an O-ring of rubber fit to the concave groove of the seal main body used for medical appliances and paint appliances. The seal main body is provided with an end lip portion on a side along the axis direction and a main lip portion on a middle position of the axis direction on a sliding face side, and, in a pressure-receiving state in which pressure works on the side along the axis direction and the O-ring is compressed, a dimension of the axis direction from a base end face of the seal main body on other side along the axis to a cross-section central point of the O-ring and another dimension of the axis direction from the base end face to an end portion of the main lip portion are set to be approximately equal.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Mitsubishi Cable Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Hiroshi Aoshiba, Yasuji Kanou
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Patent number: 7195247Abstract: A joint is disclosed for connecting a handle with various bits. The joint includes an insert fit in the handle, a socket connected with the insert for receiving the bits, a first locking device installed on the socket for locking long bits to the socket and a second locking device installed on the socket for locking short bits to the socket.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Zu-Shung Shu
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Patent number: 7195248Abstract: An wheelbarrow attachment for a typical wheelbarrow, the attachment removably fitting over the lip and bucket of the back of the wheelbarrow and therefrom extending upward and backward from the rear of the bucket. The u-channels fitting the bucket are connectively braced. Inner uprights attach to the u-channels and are adjustably fitted for height, and fore and aft adjustment of a padded cross plate connecting the inner uprights. A user braces and pushes with his/her body, offering greater force for propelling the wheelbarrow and greater stability in handling a loaded wheelbarrow.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Gregg B. Miesch
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Patent number: 7195249Abstract: The present invention provides a method of controlling an actuator assembly for suspension systems. The actuator assembly control method of the present invention is possible to control the actuator assembly according to conditions of vehicle velocity and steering angle or vehicle velocity and steering angular velocity, thus reducing energy consumption, thereby increasing the efficiency of the actuator assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.Inventor: Young-Kwang Kim
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Patent number: 7195250Abstract: An active suspension system for a vehicle including elements for developing and executing a trajectory plan responsive to the path on which the vehicle is traveling. The system may include a location system for locating the vehicle, and a system for retrieving a road profile corresponding to the vehicle location.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Bose CorporationInventors: Lawrence D. Knox, Neal M. Lackritz, James A. Parison, William R. Short
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Patent number: 7195251Abstract: The item of footwear (10) is provided with a roller (50) to enable the item of footwear to roll over a surface when the rolling means is in a first active position. The item of footwear (10) has a slide yoke (34) for retracting the roller (50) to a second latent position, thereby disabling the roller and preventing the item of footwear from rolling over a surface (see FIG. 2).Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Automation Conveyors Ltd.Inventor: John Graeme Walker
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Patent number: 7195252Abstract: A kit for modifying an in line skate to role in one direction only consists of locking plate having a rectangular central hole an a shoulder along one edge, a tubular sleeve having a rectangular head sized to non-rotatably fit within the central hole of the plate, and a wheel with a built in one way clutch with a central opening sized to receive the tubular sleeve.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Daniel Glosky
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Patent number: 7195253Abstract: A patient support including a propulsion device for moving the patient support. The patient support includes a propulsion system having a propulsion device operably coupled to an input system.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Hill Rom Services, IncInventors: John David Vogel, Thomas W. Hanson, Craig Crandall, Joseph A. Kummer, Michael M. Frondorf, David P. Lubbers, Ronald P. Kappeler, Bradley T. Wilson, Darrell L. Metz, Doug K. Smith, Jeffrey A. Ruschke, John Vodzak, Terry J. Stratman, Eric W. Oberhaus
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Patent number: 7195254Abstract: A snowmobile ski includes an elongate ski element. The elongate ski element has a tip and a tail defining a length therebetween, top and bottom surfaces, first and second lateral edges extending longitudinally between the tip and the tail defining a width therebetween, and an attachment flange extending upwardly from the top surface. At least one lateral extension element is detachably secured to one of the lateral edges to thereby increase the lateral width of the snowmobile ski.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: BRP Finland OyInventor: Kalevi Mäkitalo
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Patent number: 7195255Abstract: A handle positioning device for a hand truck includes a lateral rod, a pull rod, and a handle. The lateral rod has a slide groove respectively formed lengthwise in two end portions, and the pull rod has two bent ends fitting movably in the two slide grooves of the lateral rod. The handle has two side vertical rods, which fit respectively in the two ends of the lateral rod and provided with a plurality of position holes. When the handle is needed to be adjusted in its height, the pull rod is pushed to force the two ends to move inward to each other elastically in the two slide grooves of the lateral rod, and then the handle can be adjusted in its height by moved up or down, and then the pull rod is released to fit elastically in a new position hole in two side rods of the handle to keep immovable the handle at the newly adjusted height.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2006Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Haiming Tsai
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Patent number: 7195256Abstract: A vehicle for transporting, rolling and unrolling ground covers broadly includes an elongate framework, a spindle supported by the framework to mount one or more rolls of material, one or more ground wheels, and split bearings located toward the ends of the framework for receiving and supporting the roll-carrying spindles. The split bearings each include an upper part which is openable to enable the split bearing to receive and secure the end of the spindle. Preferably, the framework includes one or more parts, such as support members, which are operable to pivot about the framework so that the angle of the axis of the spindle is adjustable.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Doranda LimitedInventors: Jonathan Dallas Toye, Malcolm Keith Baker
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Patent number: 7195257Abstract: A cargo cart system with a cradle assembly includes a pair of support rails with generally sinuous upper and lower surfaces and at least one cross bar spanning the support rails. The sinuous upper and lower surfaces are maintained in mirrored relation with one another to define pairs of laterally spaced upper and lower support surfaces to support containers in a stabilized position. A method of assembling and retaining containers includes providing a plurality of the cradle assemblies; placing a first cradle assembly on the cart; placing a first row of containers upon the first cradle assembly; placing a second cradle assembly over the first row of containers; and, placing a second row of containers upon the second cradle assembly.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Magline, IncInventors: Virginia Lynn Stoneback, Jeffry R. Frahm
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Patent number: 7195258Abstract: A mobile viscous matter pump comprising a hydraulically operated support construction, a distribution boom (16) and a pneumatic cushioned trailing axle (42). To ensure stability during the pump operation, the trailing axle (42) can be lifted by means of a lifting element (58) by bleeding the pneumatic suspension, whereby the bleeding of the pneumatic suspension (44) and the operation of the lifting element (58) and a locking element (64) can be controlled according to the on-condition of the auxiliary drive (NA) of the vehicle motor, used to supply the hydraulic fluid of the drive hydraulics.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2002Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Putzmeister AktiengesellschaftInventors: Wolf-Michael Petzold, Gernot Göggelmann
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Patent number: 7195259Abstract: A skateboard having a front board, a rear board, a connecting element which interconnects the front board and the rear board in a spaced relationship, at least one direction-caster mounted on the underside of each of the front board and the rear board; and the connecting element comprises an elastic member so that the connecting element can be elastically twisted by application of at least one of a twisting or bending force and restores to its original shape when the force is removed.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Slovie Co., Ltd.Inventor: Singi Gang
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Patent number: 7195260Abstract: A suspension for coupling a steer axle assembly to a vehicle frame is provided that provides lateral stability to the steer axle assembly without the use of a track rod or stabilizer bar. The suspension includes a body that is coupled to the axle beam of the steer axle assembly. An arm extends from the body in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and is coupled to the frame at one end. The arm is pivotable about an axis extending generally transversely to the frame rails of the vehicle frame. A male guide member is connected to the body and is received within a female guide member that is in turn disposed in an aperture defined by a bracket of the frame. The guide members are free to move within the bracket vertically or in the fore-aft direction, but are restricted from lateral movement.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Dana CorporationInventor: Gregory Richardson
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Patent number: 7195261Abstract: A position sensor system is provided at a slidable vehicle seat for sensing seat position in zones and facilitating controlling of the operation of a vehicle passenger restraint device according to a position of the vehicle seat relative to the vehicle passenger restraint device. The vehicle seat includes a pair of substantially parallel slide rail mechanisms which comprise upper rail members and lower rail members mounted to a floor of a vehicle, the upper rail members being attached to lower portions of the vehicle seat and supported to the lower rail members so as to be movable along the lower rail members, so that the vehicle seat can be moved along the lower rail members. The upper rail members and the lower rail members are combined with each other, to thereby define inner spaces. The position sensor system is mounted within at least one of the inner spaces.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: TS Tech Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masami Yoshida, Shigeru Endo
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Patent number: 7195262Abstract: A hitch-mounted step for a vehicle that extends beyond a deployed fold-down tailgate of a vehicle and allows people and pets to more easily enter and exit the rear cargo area of a vehicle. The hitch-mounted step is easily stored and deployed without the need to remove the step from the receiver hitch.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventors: Jimmy Chaudoin, Nancy Chaudoin
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Patent number: 7195263Abstract: A vehicle frame structure includes a pair of main frames, one of the pair of frames extending on left side of a vehicle, and the other on the right side, from the head pipe rearwards in an overall sealed cross sectional structure. At least a portion of each main frame includes a frame upper stage and a frame lower stage, each stage made up of a closed, sealed cross sectional structure. At least a portion of each main frame further includes an outer plate and an inner plate joined into an integrated piece with the frame upper stage and the frame lower stage. The plates are installed so as to extend over both sides of the frame upper stage and the frame lower stage. The frame structure provides a well-balanced high-strength main frame, and high strength in portions which join the main frame and head pipe.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yuzuru Ishikawa
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Patent number: 7195264Abstract: A manually powered rowing vehicle is provided. A chain is wrapped around a portion of first and second free-wheel wheel sprockets, which can spin freely in one direction but not the other. The first free-wheel drive sprocket drives a rear wheel. The second free-wheel drive sprocket connects to one end of a lever arm, which pivotally connects to a frame. When the rider pulls the other end of the lever arm towards their body, the first free-wheel drive sprocket grabs the chain and pulls the chain forward. The chain in turn pulls the second free-wheel drive sprocket, which rotates the rear wheel forward. When the rider pushes the lever arm away from their body, the first free-wheel drive sprocket spins freely to allow the lever arm to return to the pull position without moving the linked chain or the vehicle. Various embodiments for steering the vehicle are also described.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Robert Drymalski
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Patent number: 7195265Abstract: A motorcycle chassis component, such as a fork bridge of a front wheel fork, is provided with an integrated partial section of a fluid system circuit, such as a hydraulic brake circuit. By providing a partial section of the fluid system in the chassis component, the chassis component functions as a portion of the fluid system, thereby simplifying the fluid system, lowering manufacturing and component costs, and reducing fluid system vulnerability to damage from external impacts.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventor: Markus Lederer
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Patent number: 7195266Abstract: A frame assembly is configured to enhance control and maneuverability of a three-wheeled agricultural applicator. The frame assembly includes a fork assembly mounted on a single front wheel assembly having a single front floatation tire. The front floatation tire generally includes a tread having a central crown, a first tread face extending in one direction from the crown, and a second tread face extending in a second direction from the crown opposite the first tread face. The frame assembly includes a spindle housing having an opening with a central axis aligned at an angle from vertical and configured to receive a kingpin extending upward from the fork assembly. When turning the agricultural applicator at a turn angle from a straight-forward direction of travel, the angle of the kingpin causes the vertical alignment of the crown of the front tire to roll a roll angle from vertical.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: CNH America LLCInventors: Keith M. Ricke, Rex L. Ruppert
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Patent number: 7195267Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for alignment of a trailer hitch with a trailer tongue, so that the operator does not leave the cab of the towing vehicle in order to facilitate the alignment. The system may comprise a control assembly and a remote assembly, the control assembly further comprising a display unit and a receiver, and the remote assembly further comprising a video camera, a transmitter, and a light. The remote system may be removably attached to the rear end of the towing vehicle and positioned to provide a vertical view of the hitch area, and the control assembly may be removably attached to a surface within the cab. The transmitter provides a wireless video signal of the hitch area for reception by the receiver and subsequent display on the display unit. Power for the system may be provided by batteries, and in the case of the remote assembly, a plug adaptable for attachment to the standard cable socket for trailer braking and lights.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Curtis C. Thompson
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Patent number: 7195268Abstract: A pivoting hitch mount assembly for interconnecting a towed vehicle with towing vehicles having hitch positions at varying elevations includes a pivot arm assembly having a hitching component for coupling with a the hitch position with the towing vehicle that is selectively connected to a support assembly on the towing vehicle at plural front and rear pivot connections enabling selective inclination and elevation of the hitching component with respect to the towing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Thomas M. Williams, Jr.
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Patent number: 7195269Abstract: A hitch includes a hitch engagement, a hitch tongue and a connecting bridge portion which are forged or otherwise formed as a single, integral, monolithic metal structure. The hitch engagement includes a recess exposed on its bottom side which significantly reduces the weight and material cost of the hitch. The hitch includes generally uniform wall thicknesses with the exception of stress pyramids of greater thickness disposed on the side walls of the bridge portion. A front wall to the hitch engagement is provided which slopes relative to the longitudinal axis of the hitch and connects the side walls bounding the recess. An anti-vibration device can be used within the recess to prevent the hitch from rattling in the hitch receiver.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Curt Manufacturing, Inc.Inventor: Curt Tambornino
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Patent number: 7195270Abstract: A support device is provided to accept hitch mounted bicycle carriers and other hitch accessories with the device being capable of being supported on the ground or against either a vertical or a horizontal surface. The support device is part consists firstly of a support receiver that accepts a wide range of commercial carriers built for 2 inch or 1¼ inch diameter square tongues and for those that bolt directly to fixed hitches. The support receiver connects to a frame of the support device which supports the receiver on various surfaces.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Ian Norquay
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Patent number: 7195271Abstract: Children's ride-on vehicle assemblies that include a leading vehicle, a trailing vehicle, and a connection apparatus, such as a hitch assembly, that selectively interconnects the leading and trailing vehicles. At least the leading vehicle includes a drive assembly adapted to propel the vehicle along a ground surface. In some embodiments, at least the leading vehicle is a battery-powered ride-on vehicle. The hitch assembly is adapted to interconnect the leading and trailing vehicles and to provide a limited range of pivoting of the vehicles relative to each other. In some embodiments, the hitch assembly includes a pinch-relief mechanism that is adapted to provide at least a predetermined clearance between the vehicles. In some embodiments, the hitch assembly is adapted to provide limited pivotal ranges in at least two planes. In some embodiments, the hitch assembly is adapted to selectively uncouple and recouple the vehicles from and to each other.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: William R. Howell, Gary G. Lenihan
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Patent number: 7195272Abstract: A vehicle suspension has axle end portions each pivotally coupled to an associated leaf spring and thereby to an associated supporting vehicle frame rail. Control rods are pivotally coupled to the axle at locations below the leaf spring pivots. Desirably, one of such control rods is pivoted to the axle at a location above the wheel axis and the other of such control rods is pivotally coupled to the axle at a location below the wheel axis. A steering mechanism for steering the steerable wheels of a tandem axle includes first and second steering gears mounted to a common frame rail and driven by a single mechanical coupling such as a T-miter box. These steering gears may control respective steering gears at the opposite side of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Freightliner LLCInventors: James W. Larson, Marlin J. Toews, Bruce W. Mabbett
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Patent number: 7195273Abstract: An airbag module may have an inflator, a cushion, and a housing that contains the inflator and the cushion. The housing has an outer wall formed of a flexible material and a bracket designed to be attached to a vehicle. During deployment, the cushion is expelled out of the housing through the bracket. The inflator remains in the housing and inflation gas is conveyed to the cushion through the housing. The inflator may be retained by flaps wrapped around the inflator and secured to a perpendicularly oriented diffuser of the inflator. Alternatively, the diffuser may extend through an orifice formed in a fabric wall within the housing, and retention portions of the outer wall may be wrapped around the opposite side of the inflator. The airbag module may be mounted in an instrument panel to provide front seat, passenger's side impact protection without requiring a rigid module housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Lewis, Trudy C. Lewis, Gregory J. Lang, Larry D. Rose
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Patent number: 7195274Abstract: A vehicle seat component (18) includes a side air bag module (18) mounted on a frame (24) within a trim cover (34) that also covers a seat pad (30). An air bag guide (44) includes flexible inner and outer panels (46,48) that extend between a release seam (36) of the trim cover (34) and the air bag module (18) to provide a guiding function to an air bag (42) thereof as it is inflated upon deployment so as to project outwardly through the release seam (36) for use. Inner extremities (52, 56) of the flexible inner and outer panels (46, 48) of the air bag guide (44) are respectively secured by a first connector (64) that mounts the air bag module (18) and a second connector (82) to the frame, and the trim cover (34) is secured to the frame by a third connector (84).Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Lear CorporationInventor: Michael L. Tracht
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Patent number: 7195275Abstract: An airbag includes, when expanded, a center portion of an occupant-side front panel that is stretched by tethers toward a rear side of the airbag. The concave portion formed at the center portion of the front panel caves to the rear side of the airbag from a peripheral portion of the front panel. A covering lid panel traverses the concave portion. The airbag efficiently protects an occupant, even though the concave portion caves away from the occupant. Because the airbag has a volume that is smaller to the extent of the concave portion, the airbag immediately expands even when a gas generator with relatively low output is used.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2006Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Takata CorporationInventor: Kazuhiro Abe
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Patent number: 7195276Abstract: An occupant protection system for protecting an occupant includes a deployable body for deploying downwardly from above in a vehicle cabin into a vertically and laterally deployed state. A bag is provided to the deployable body to be inflated to a predetermined size for receiving the occupant after the deployable body deploys downwardly by a predetermined length. A gas generator is attached to the bag for inflating the bag.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Takata CorporationInventor: Masahiro Higuchi
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Patent number: 7195277Abstract: A vehicle seat assembly including a frame, an air bag module, and a trim cover having an end portion. A first coupling member is disposed proximate the end portion. A second coupling member is adapted to engage the first coupling member. The second coupling member is received in a slot defined by the air bag module and the frame.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Michael L. Tracht, Rainer Penzel
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Patent number: 7195279Abstract: An airbag module may include an inflator, a cushion, and a deflection hood. When used as a passenger side, frontal impact module, the cushion deploys upward from a vehicle instrument panel. The deflection hood directs gas downward through a discharge opening and into the cushion to expedite inflation of the lower portion of the cushion to more uniformly cushion a vehicle occupant's body. The discharge opening may be sewn shut via a tear seam to ensure that the discharge opening is properly positioned when the tear seam opens to release inflation gas. Alternatively, the discharge opening may be sewn shut by a non-tearable seam, and perforations may be applied proximate the non-tearable seam so that the discharge opening opens along the perforations to release the inflation gas. According to one alternative, the deflection hood may be angled within the cushion to provide a significant asymmetrical, lateral gas flow.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventors: Larry D. Rose, Marc P. Russell
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Patent number: 7195280Abstract: An inflatable fabric cushion is disclosed that can maintain a high internal pressure while having an exposed inflator squib. The inflatable cushion has a precision opening sized to be commensurate with a diameter of the inflator squib. The precision opening tightly circumscribes the inflator to limit leakage of inflation gas when the squib projects out of the opening. The cushion also has a throat through which the inflator may be inserted into the cushion. After the inflator is inserted into the cushion, the throat is sealed closed by wrapping the throat around the inflator housing and being cinched when the airbag assembly is mounted on a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventors: Terry A. Wheelwright, James L. Nelson
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Patent number: 7195281Abstract: The application provides airbag cushion deployment restraint systems for use in inflatable airbag cushions. The deployment restraint systems of the invention regulate deployment of an airbag cushion to provide full radial expansion of the cushion prior to final expansion of the cushion toward a vehicle occupant. The deployment restraint systems of the invention thus increase the amount of contact surface area available to a vehicle occupant early in deployment and decrease the force with which the cushion is expanded toward a vehicle occupant during a collision event, thus reducing the likelihood of injury to an out-of-position vehicle occupant.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Autoliv ASP, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey Daniel Williams, Patrick D. Jamison, James Clyde Coleman, James D. Erickson
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Patent number: 7195282Abstract: Hydrogen tanks 21 are located in the vicinity of a front axle of a left front wheel FWL and a right front wheel FWR in a front space 61 of a motor vehicle and are arranged to have their longitudinal axis along a width of the vehicle. The hydrogen tanks 21 are positioned at a height substantially the same as a mounting height of a front bumper 64. This layout desirably ensures sufficient spaces in a trunk room 62 on the rear side of the vehicle and in a passenger compartment of the vehicle. This layout also enables the load of the hydrogen tanks 21 to be directly applied to the left and right front wheels FWL and FWR, while ensuring the good weight balance over the width of the vehicle. The positioning of the hydrogen tanks 21 at substantially the same height as the mounting height of the front bumper 64 effectively reduces a potential shock to the hydrogen tanks 21 in the event of a vehicle collision.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Minobu Mizuno
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Patent number: 7195283Abstract: A tubular connection for centering a tube within a female connecting block that has a throughbore with a chamfer, wherein a transition surface is defined between the chamfer and the throughbore. The tube has an upset bead, a tapered portion narrowing from the upset bead, and an end-form extending from the tapered portion, the end-form having an annular groove with an O-ring therein. The connection further includes a device for securing the tube within the female connecting block whereby the upset bead of the tube is caused to abut the female connecting block. The tube locates inside the female connecting block such that the end-form seals via the O-ring inside the throughbore of the female connecting block and the tapered portion of the tube sealingly engages against the transition surface of the female connecting block to keep the tube centered within the female connecting block and to form a secondary fluid-tight seal.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Hutchinson, FTS, Inc.Inventor: Jerry H. Chisnell
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Patent number: 7195284Abstract: A flexible synthetic resin coupling is provided which is substantially self-sustaining in an initial configuration but provides sufficient resiliency and flexibility to absorb substantial loading, thereby accommodating relative movement between pipes and/or tanks to which it is connected. The coupling includes a conduit having two ends with a coupling positioned at at least one of the ends. The conduit is configured to have a total curvature of at least 270°, and may be configured to have a central axis of the flowpath defined by the passage within the conduit lie in a serpentine configuration in a single plane or alternatively to loop and lie in more than one plane.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Snyder Industries, Inc.Inventors: Darwin Garton, Darrell Oltman
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Patent number: 7195285Abstract: A connection arrangement for detachably connecting a first flexible tank and a second flexible tank in an aircraft includes a latching device, a first tubular connecting element attached to the first tank, and a second tubular connecting element attached to the second tank. The first and the second connecting elements are detachably connected to each other using the latching device. In a connected state of the connecting elements, fluid exchange can take place between the first and the second tanks via the first and the second connecting elements, the latching device is disposed inside one of the first and second flexible tanks and is actuatable from outside the respective flexible tank.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Eurocopter Deutschland GmbHInventors: Eleftherios Rodousakis, Harald Kiowsky
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Patent number: 7195286Abstract: A tube can be easily attached to and detached from the tube joint by one hand. The tube joint comprises: a body proper having one open end, from which the tube is inserted; and a locking member locking the tube in the body proper. The locking member includes: a ring section sliding on an inner face of the body proper and moving in an axial direction; a plurality of flexible extended sections extended from the ring section toward the one open end of the body proper; and a plurality of claw sections radially projected inward from front ends of the flexible extended sections. The body proper has a tapered section, which reduces a diameter of the front ends of the flexible extended sections when the locking member is moved toward the one open end and the front ends of the flexible extended sections enter the tapered section, whereby the claw sections bite and lock the tube.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Yugen Kaisha Hama InternationalInventor: Tomio Hama
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Patent number: 7195287Abstract: A fitting for liquid or steam piping, comprising: an elastic sealing ring; a locating sleeve placed around said sealing ring; an internal teethed lock ring located on the locating ring outer end face; an inner ring located outside of the internal teethed lock ring, the inner surface of the inner ring matching with the outer surface of the pipe to be coupled, the inner ring further including a tapered surface and external threads on the outer surface of the inner ring; an outer ring with threads on its internal surface for matching the external thread on said inner ring, as well as methods for connecting pipes using the fitting.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: ON Yip Global Co., Ltd.Inventor: Lai Lin Wai
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Patent number: 7195288Abstract: The invention relates to a pipe coupling comprising a socket component and an insert component which is partially insertable to securely fit into the socket component. A ring groove between the socket component and the insert component is sealed by a ring seal. The socket component is releasably connected to the insert component by means of a union nut which contacts a shoulder of the insert component rearwardly for joined movement into the closed position. The union nut is screwed onto the socket component along a cylindrical and/or conical exterior thread. The ring gap between the union nut and the insert component is sealed. The ring gap between the union nut and the socket component is also sealed. The thread connection between the socket component and the union nut is positioned between the two sealing positions.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: Karl Weinhold
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Patent number: 7195289Abstract: A fluid distribution system comprising a hollow pipe section having at least one bore extending longitudinally therethrough. At least one longitudinal boss extends along the pipe section. An end fitting comprises a body configured to be received in the bore and a shoulder extending radially from the body. At least one bolt hole extends through the shoulder and is configured to align with the at least one longitudinal boss. A secondary component is configured for connection to the end fitting. Alternatively, an outlet plate fitting is configured for attaching a secondary component to a fluid pipe section. The fluid pipe section includes opposed flanges that define a receiving groove. The outlet plate fitting comprises a main body and an engagement platform having a planar surface with a seal member. Rotation of the engagement platform within the receiving groove causes the planar surface and seal member into sealing engagement within the receiving groove.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand CompanyInventors: Gunter Gray Matt, James Christopher Collins, Michael Patrick Cain, Paul Harry Adkins
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Patent number: 7195290Abstract: A duct system comprising duct sections which are factory manufactured and field modifiable. The field modifiable duct system comprises fire resistant materials and is fire-rated. The duct sections when assembled create a continuous conduit that allows air to flow from a fresh air source to the required area of the building.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Inventor: William Christopher Duffy
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Patent number: 7195291Abstract: A locking device for locking an opening-and-closing moving body in a stopped position includes a striker body disposed on one of a striking part of the opening-and-closing moving body and a struck part of a non-moving body hitting against the striking part of the moving body in the stopped position, and a catcher body disposed on the other of the striking part of the moving body and the struck part of the non-moving body. The catcher body includes an inner part with a receiving part for receiving the striker body, an outer part for holding the inner part, a forcing device for urging the inner part, and a damping device for damping the inner part. The forcing device urges the inner part to engage the outer part and stop when the inner part is situated in a forward position.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: Nifco Inc.Inventors: Yasutomo Kobayashi, Kensuke Fujiwara
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Patent number: 7195292Abstract: A latch mechanism includes a chassis and a latch bolt movably mounted on the chassis. The chassis includes an abutment, and the latch bolt is moveable between an open position in which the latch bolt can receive a striker of a vehicle, a closed position at which the striker is capable of being retained by the latch bolt, and an over-travel position. The latch mechanism includes a buffer having a displacing element and an engagement portion. The buffer is capable of operably acting between the abutment and the latch bolt to absorb over-travel of the latch bolt. The displacing element is capable of moving frictionally against the engagement portion during over-travel to generate a frictional force to absorb over-travel energy of the latch bolt.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2004Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: ArvinMeritor Light Vehicle Systems (UK) Ltd.Inventors: Morten Ketelsen, John Gorton
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Patent number: 7195293Abstract: A device for opening a door of an electric household appliance; the door swinging about an axis of rotation between an open position, into which it is pushed by elastic means, and a closed position, in which it is retained, with the interposition of a peripheral seal, resting against a door stop of a door opening of the appliance, by releasable retaining means; and the device including a supporting member fixable integrally to the door; a button fitted integrally to the supporting member to stay, in use, on the same side of an outer surface of the door, and which is pressure-operated in opposition to first elastic means; a push member fitted to the supporting member to slide, in opposition to second elastic means and along an axis substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the door, between an extracted position extracted from a seat on the supporting member, and a withdrawn position housed inside the seat, which is formed at and substantially flush with the peripheral seal; and bolt means for selType: GrantFiled: July 28, 2005Date of Patent: March 27, 2007Assignee: ITW Industrial Components S.R.L.Inventor: Gian Battista Ala