Patents Issued in April 3, 2007
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Patent number: 7197970Abstract: An apparatus for trimming scrap from an aluminum sheet metal blank is provided. The apparatus includes a clamping base comprising a clamping base engagement surface positioned between a clamping base upper surface and a clamping base bottom surface. The clamping base engagement has a clamping base vertically orientated portion and a clamping base angled portion. A steady blade is mounted to the clamping base. The steady blade and the clamping base form a contiguous angled engagement surface. The steady blade engagement surface forms a steady blade trimming edge. An elastic scrap support and an upper clamping element are included. A moving blade includes a moving blade trimming edge formed by the intersection of the moving blade blade-side surface and the moving blade engagement surface. The moving blade engagement surface distributing strain on the aluminum blank as the moving blade trimming edge separates the scrap element from the aluminum blank.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Sergey Golovashchenko, Michael Blodgett
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Patent number: 7197971Abstract: A sheet material trimming apparatus and method are described which are suitable for use in a booklet making system. An exemplary apparatus includes at least one cutter for trimming a first and a second edge of a sheet material in a first and a second direction, and a drive system for moving the sheet material in two perpendicular directions for trimming the first and second edges with the at least one cutter. The drive system moves the sheet material in two perpendicular directions by rotating and translating a roller. The sheet material trimming apparatus allows for automatic changes in the amount of material cut off each side of the sheet material by moving the sheet material in two directions without requiring repositioning of the cutter(s).Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: Steven W. Trovinger
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Patent number: 7197972Abstract: A composite body produced by a reactive infiltration process that possesses high mechanical strength, high hardness and high stiffness has applications in such diverse industries as precision equipment and ballistic armor. Specifically, the composite material features a boron carbide filler or reinforcement phase, and a silicon carbide matrix produced by the reactive infiltration of an infiltrant having a silicon component with a porous mass having a carbonaceous component. Potential deleterious reaction of the boron carbide with silicon during infiltration is suppressed by alloying or dissolving boron into the silicon prior to contact of the silicon infiltrant with the boron carbide. In a preferred embodiment of the invention related specifically to armor, good ballistic performance can be advanced by loading the porous mass or preform to be infiltrated to a high degree with one or more hard fillers such as boron carbide, and by limiting the size of the largest particles making up the mass.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventors: Michael K Aghajanian, Allyn L McCormick, Bradley N Morgan, Anthony F Liszkiewicz, Jr.
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Patent number: 7197973Abstract: A bolt locking assembly for a weapon simulator, the weapon simulator having a bolt affixed to a firearm housing providing recoil to the user. The bolt is connected to a piston housed in a piston chamber inside the housing. A gas supply provides a compressed gas or fluid into the piston chamber to generate movement and recoil of the piston. After the weapon simulator has been fired a predetermined number of times, the bolt locking assembly will obstruct operation of the bolt and piston. The bolt locking assembly includes a lock actuator port engaging the piston chamber, a locking apparatus positioned within the housing proximate the bolt, and a lock channel between said lock actuator port and said locking arm, wherein the lock channel directs gas to said locking apparatus to actuate said locking apparatus and fix the bolt in place.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Fats, Inc.Inventors: Paul Heath Fleming, Henry Martin Wilson, Jr.
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Patent number: 7197974Abstract: A position sensor includes a stationary frame supporting a rotatable spool onto which a cable is wound in a plurality of individual windings. A distal end of the cable extends through a lead guide for attachment to an object whose position is desired to be sensed. As the object moves, the cable is would or unwound about the spool and the spool rotates in direct correlation to the movement of the object. The spool is retained in the frame through a threaded engagement between a threaded extension extending from the spool and a threaded opening in the frame. Thus, as the spool rotates, the spool travels along a linear path and a sensor determines the location of the threaded extension to determine the location of the object. A recoil spring is used which may be located within the spool itself.Type: GrantFiled: January 15, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Control Products Inc.Inventor: Richard O. Glasson
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Patent number: 7197975Abstract: Piston-cylinder unit including a working cylinder; a piston attached to a piston rod and installed with freedom of axial displacement in the working cylinder; and fastening elements, at least one of which is screwed into a threaded bore in the piston rod, where the interior pressure in the working cylinder holds a valve in the bore of the piston rod against an end surface of the fastening element. A vent groove leading to the atmosphere is provided between the end surface and the valve to create a pressure gradient to the working space, the groove being provided between the inner surface of the piston rod and the fastening element.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Gerhard Boll, Klaus Peter Klein, Klaus Schmitz
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Patent number: 7197976Abstract: Devices, piston components, and methods are provided for an improved piston. One embodiment for a piston component includes a base having a side to receive a piston body. A tang is provided to the base and extends outward from the side of the base which is to receive the piston body.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2006Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.Inventor: Robert G. Farrell
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Patent number: 7197977Abstract: An apparatus for successively delivering nuts from a hopper to a high production nutcracker. An endless conveyor extends through the hopper and includes a plurality of nut transport elements which pick up the nuts in a receptacle formed in the upper surface of each element. To insure that only one nut is received in each receptacle, each element is provided with a longitudinal slot in one of the sides of the element which communicates with the receptacle, and a pivotally mounted singulating arm extends into the slots of the advancing elements to eject any excess nuts from each receptacle. To accommodate nuts of different average size, the pivotal position of the singulating arm is adjustable by means of an actuating wheel positioned on the outside of the hopper.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Machine Design IncorporatedInventors: James B. Quantz, Pascal W. Pitts, John L. Feaster
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Patent number: 7197978Abstract: An improved discharge gate for a food peeler having an S-shaped portion edge such that a food item is able to uniformly flow from the peeling chamber out of the discharge gate and at the same time, the gate causes efficient flow within the peeling chamber of the peeling device such that all of the food items within the peeler are uniformly peeled.Type: GrantFiled: July 9, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Vanmark CorporationInventor: Joseph E. Wallace
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Patent number: 7197979Abstract: A controlled bale ejection mechanism for an agricultural baler is provided. The mechanism includes a bale support which is positioned below the bale when it is ejected, that catches and supports the bale. The bale support is then translated rearward by a hydraulic cylinder and guided by support rails. As the bale support and bale approach the desired location, the bale support is lowered by tilting the rail assembly downward. An articulating shoe is used to support and lower the rails. The bale support tilts as it is lowered, thereby creating a dumping action. If additional tilting is required due to geometry limitations, additional bale support tilt can be created by a weight shift of the bale support, changing the trajectory of the rail or torque induced by the bale support cylinder. The bale is set down on the ground and the ramp assembly resets to prevent the bale from rolling forward and preparing for the next cycle.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Daniel Eric Derscheid
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Patent number: 7197980Abstract: An engraving sheet includes a support layer fabricated of biaxially oriented high-density polypropylene, and an engraving layer formed on the support layer and having an opacity of 40%. The engraving sheet is engraved from the engraving layer down to the support layer. The support layer is lower in opacity than the engraving layer with a difference of 20% or more between the opacity of the support layer and the opacity of the engraving layer. The engraving sheet allows a desired pattern, a photograph of the face of an individual, or the like to be engraved thereon, and presents a finger touch similar to that of paper, and is hard to be torn even after it is bound by a sewing machine or a stapler.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2003Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Akira Suzuki
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Patent number: 7197981Abstract: A projectile, having a casing, a projectile base, which closes off the casing at the rear, a receiver coil for receiving electromagnetic signals, an energy source, brought into contact with the receiver coil, and a logic module. The casing is made of a plastic material, at least in the area of the rear.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Oerlikon Contraves Pyrotec AGInventor: Peter Ettmüller
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Patent number: 7197982Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and a method for accurately locating a penetrating-type weapon within a shelter for detonation at a desired target site. The method includes reliably and accurately detecting thin layers of a shelter by use of a weapon frequency induced by a vibration in a portion of the weapon. The weapon frequency is detected and at least one harmonic frequency of the weapon frequency is analyzed to determine whether a deceleration threshold event has occurred. In one embodiment, the harmonic frequency may be compared to a target frequency which is associated with the deceleration of the weapon during penetration of a layer of media. In another embodiment multiple weapon frequencies may be detected, analyzed, or compared to detect the penetration of a layer of media.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.Inventor: Bradley M. Biggs
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Patent number: 7197983Abstract: A mechano-electrical fuse (10) for a hand grenade (76), which has a spring element for the storage of mechanical energy and which has a drive device connected to the spring element for driving an electrical generator (28) through mechanical energy which is stored in the spring element. The electrical generator (28) is connected through an electronic delay circuit (56) with a detonator (46), with which a booster charge (48) is associated. A barrier (40) is provided between the detonator (46) and the booster charge (48). The spring element is formed by a tensioning spring (24) associated with the handle lever (18) of the hand grenade (76). The drive device has a taut cable line (68) which is fixed at one end (70) to the generator shaft (30) and wound with a number of turns (72) around the generator shaft (30). The second end (74) of the cable line (68) is mounted to the handle lever (18).Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Diehl Munitionssysteme GmbH & Co.Inventors: Norbert Barth, Michael Hahn, Dietmar Kugler, Wolfgang von Entress-Fürsteneck, Thomas Arm, Erwin Wrobel
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Patent number: 7197984Abstract: A sub-caliber projectile incorporating a penetrator and a sabot formed of several segments, the penetrator and sabot incorporating profiles that cooperate with one another so as to ensure the axial drive of the penetrator by the sabot when the projectile is being fired, such projectile wherein there is axial play (J) between the profile on the sabot and that on the penetrator so as to enable a limited relative axial displacement of the sabot with respect to the penetrator, means being provided to ensure the radial locking of the sabot segments by the penetrator in the foremost position of the sabot with respect to the penetrator, this locking no longer being ensured in the rearmost position of the sabot with respect to the penetrator.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Giat IndustriesInventor: Nicolas Eches
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Patent number: 7197985Abstract: An apparatus and method for reliably activating explosives includes providing one or more housing sections that define a sealed space. A first explosive element is provided in the sealed space, and a second explosive element has a first portion inside the sealed space, and a second portion outside the sealed space exposed to outside pressure. A gripping mechanism grips a surface of the second explosive element to maintain a position of the second explosive element that is exposed to the outside pressure in an axial direction of the second explosive element.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventors: Daniel C. Markel, Larry W. Phillips
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Patent number: 7197986Abstract: A method for lubricating gun barrel bores comprises burnishing dry lubricating ceramic particulate into the metal surface of the bore such that the particles of particulate substantially fill grain boundaries in the metal. The burnishing of the particulate may be done manually or mechanically. Mechanically burnishing the particulate includes firing particulate-coated ammunition projectiles or other ammunition-firing pieces coated with particulate.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2003Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Noel C. Calkins
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Patent number: 7197987Abstract: A magnet assembly for the suspension and guidance of suspended vehicles and transport systems creates an intrinsically stable, contactless magnetic suspension and guidance system composed of an assembly of magnetic elements and a superconductor assembly for suspended vehicles and transport systems. At least one part of the magnetic element assembly is physically connected to the superconductor assembly. In addition, the magnetic elements assembly and the superconductor assembly are magnetically intercoupled to maintain a stable distance between at least two magnetic elements by the utilization of a magnetic field that is frozen in the superconductor. The magnetic assembly can be used in particular in those vehicles and transport systems that are configured to be displaced along a magnetic rail without making contact with the latter, thus enabling a displacement devoid of friction and abrasion.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Leibniz-Institut fuer Festkoerper-und Werkstoffforschung Dresden e.V.Inventors: Martina Falter, Peter Bartusch, Ludwig Schultz
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Patent number: 7197988Abstract: A table includes a table top that is preferably constructed from blow molded plastic. The table top includes a top surface, a bottom surface and a pair of spaced apart generally L-shaped brackets. The generally L-shaped brackets can be attached to or integrally formed with the bottom surface of the table top, and the generally L-shaped brackets are preferably sized and configured to attach a drawer to the table top. In greater detail, the generally L-shaped brackets may have a vertical portion and a bottom portion that is sized and configured to support the drawer. Additionally, generally L-shaped angle irons may be connected to the brackets to reinforce the brackets or the angle irons may be used to form the bottom portion of the L-shaped bracket.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2003Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Lifetime Products, Inc.Inventors: Jin Degen, Jin Shenghao, Arvin Patel
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Patent number: 7197989Abstract: A pallet assembly includes a top deck pallet portion and a bottom deck pallet portion which are mounted to each other and have a plurality of column portions extending therebetween. At least one of the top deck pallet portion and bottom deck pallet portion has a first surface with a plurality of cross-ribbed members projecting therefrom. The pallet assembly further includes at least one stiffening member securely mounted to the plurality of cross-ribbed members to define a plurality of box beam sections between the at least one stiffening member and the at least one of the top deck pallet portion and bottom deck pallet portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Rehrig Pacific CompanyInventor: William P. Apps
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Patent number: 7197990Abstract: A table tennis table has a lower frame and two playing surface boards. The lower frame comprises vertical struts which are used as carrier elements and are arranged opposite each other along the width of the table tennis table. The playing surface can be transferred from a first position, in which the playing surface boards are vertically oriented and the guides are arranged in a lower position, to a second position, in which the playing surface boards are horizontally oriented and the guiding elements are arranged in an upper position. Upper and lower safety levers maintain the guides in either position. An actuation lever moves the safety levers to allow movement of the playing surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Heinz Kettler GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Joachim Kettler, Heinz Kettler, Reinhard Rocholl
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Patent number: 7197991Abstract: A bullnose-edge structural member (12), comprising a laminated body (54) of two opposing fiber board sheets (56, 58) defining major planar surfaces sandwiching a corrugated paperboard intermediate layer having opposing sides (66, 68), and one of the major surfaces defining a pair of spaced-apart channels (70) extending parallel to the opposing sides, with the laminated body (54) folded along a line medial the channels whereby the major planar surface opposing the surface having the channels defines a bullnose edge (14) opposing the aligned sides. A method of making a bullnose-edge structural member is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: North American Container CorporationInventor: John M. Grigsby, Jr.
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Patent number: 7197992Abstract: Embodiments of an apparatus and method for planting plants are disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus comprises a vehicle, such as a tractor, and a planting apparatus that is movable across the ground by the vehicle. The vehicle desirably has a guiding system for automatically guiding the vehicle to follow a predetermined planting path as the vehicle moves across the ground. The guiding system can comprise, for example, a global positioning system for determining the instantaneous positions of the vehicle and an automatic steering system for steering the vehicle based on positioning information from global positioning. As the vehicle moves the planting apparatus along the planting path, the planting apparatus plants a row of plants, such as trees or other agricultural products, at spaced apart locations along the planting path.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Robert Gabriel
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Patent number: 7197993Abstract: Plastic mulched raised beds are fumigated using a fumigation system containing two opposing armatures affixed to a mounting arm at about a 15° angle and a blunt-ended knife with a blade attached at about a 90° angle to the knife. The system allows fumigant to be applied to the interior of the raised, plastic mulched beds without disturbing the mulch.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of AgricultureInventors: Daniel O. Chellemi, John Mirusso
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Patent number: 7197994Abstract: The present invention is a horizontal rotary hook for a sewing machine includes an inner bobbin case holder, an outer rotating hook made of a synthetic resin, a sliding surface formed on the rotating hock so as to be slid relative to the bobbin case holder with rotation of the rotating hook while an outer periphery of the bobbin case holder is placed on the rotating hook, an opening defined in an outer peripheral wall of the rotating hook so that a needle thread passes through the opening, and a beak mounted on an outer peripheral wall of the rotating hook for seizing a loop of the needle thread.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignees: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company, Brother Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masakazu Takahashi, Shin Ota, Katsuhiro Kitajima, Toshio Abe
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Patent number: 7197995Abstract: A needle bar thread guide for a sewing machine includes a thread guide body mounted on a needle bar and having a threading portion for threading the sewing machine, an introducing portion formed on the thread guide body for introducing a needle thread to the threading portion, and a fall-off preventing member disposed at a position near to spaces over and below the thread guide body. The fall-off preventing member allows the needle thread to be introduced via the introducing portion to the threading portion and prevents the needle thread introduced to the threading portion from falling off from the introducing portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazutoshi Hayashi, Noboru Mizuno, Masayuki Hori
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Patent number: 7197996Abstract: The present invention discloses a seat board for board kiting that is made of a substantially high durability of material, having a seating recess thereon, thereby permitting a rider to enjoy the board kiting in a convenient way. The seat board for board kiting that has a seating recess formed at an upper central portion thereof, is in a shape of a generally small boat and has a kite fixed thereto to thereby obtain a propelling force, the seat board including: a body made of a polystyrene foam material; a resin layer made of fiber glass and formed on the external surface of the body for preventing the damage caused upon collision of the body against an external object; and kite fixing means provided slidably in the seating recess for fixing the kite.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Sungjun Suh
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Patent number: 7197997Abstract: The instant invention is directed to large waterborne, towed flexible fluid containment vessels for the transportation of cargo comprising a fluid or fluidisable material and a method of fabricating the vessels. The flexible fluid containment vessel includes an impervious, elongated flexible tubular structure comprised of fabric having a first circumference. The vessel also includes a sealed front end and rear end and a means for filling and emptying the vessel of cargo. The front end or the rear end of the tubular structure is formed by weaving, knitting or braiding in such a manner to have a taper that terminates in a second circumference that is less than the first circumference.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Albany International Corp.Inventors: Dana Eagles, Roland E. Jordan, Jonathan S. Barish, John J. Farrell, Glenn Kornett, Stoney Thornley
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Patent number: 7197998Abstract: Tow rope rewinder apparatus includes a spool driven by an electric motor. The motor becomes deenergized after tension of the tow rope reaches a predetermined magnitude.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Darin B. Rice
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Patent number: 7197999Abstract: A spar-type offshore platform includes a buoyant upper hull structure supporting a deck and having lower end in which is received a buoyant lower mooring module. The upper hull structure is connected to the mooring module by connection lines. The upper hull structure is removed from the mooring module by disconnecting the connection lines from the upper hull structure while leaving the connection lines attached to the mooring module and while the mooring module remains moored to the seabed. The mooring module is lowered relative to the upper hull structure, allowing the latter to be moved away. The upper hull structure may be re-positioned over the mooring module, and the mooring module may be hauled upward into engagement with the lower end of the upper hull structure, so that the connection lines can be recovered and re-attached to the upper hull structure.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Technip FranceInventor: John Murray
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Patent number: 7198000Abstract: A hydrofoil craft includes a hull having a longitudinal axis, a pylon secured to and extending beneath the hull and a lifting foil secured to the pylon. The lifting foil has an upper surface and a lower surface. The upper surface of the lifting foil is substantially planar and the lower surface of the lifting foil is not coplanar with the upper lifting surface. The lifting foil has a fore portion and an aft portion that are traversed by a longitudinal axis and wherein the longitudinal axis is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the hull and the thickness of the foil is greater at the aft portion than at the fore portion.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Gerald A. Levine
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Patent number: 7198001Abstract: A platform assembly of circular plates are yieldably held positioned by a support mounted on an underwater vehicle propelled under remote control within seawater to a location below an underwater surface such as the bottom of a ship hull, for surface measurement survey of such surface through sensors that are projected upwardly from the positioned platform assembly into contact with the surface under spring bias pressure established during survey measurement.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the NavyInventors: William H. Lewis, Dana C. Lynn, Andrew J. Field
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Patent number: 7198002Abstract: The present invention provides an arrangement for filtering milk in a milking system, wherein said arrangement comprises a movable filter magazine provided with at least three filter devices (8), each of which comprises a tube housing a disposable filter and a support structure for supporting the disposable filter, and each of which is connectable to said milking system for filtering milk therein; and an actuating device for connecting each of said at least three filter devices, one at a time, to said milking system.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Delaval Holding ABInventor: Epke Bosma
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Patent number: 7198003Abstract: The present invention refers to an arrangement and a method for milking of animals. The arrangement includes a number of milking stations (1), a central milk-receiving unit (30–32), and a transport conduit (15). Each milking station (1) includes a set of teatcups to be attached to the animal to be milked, a local milk-collecting unit, a milk discharge conduit (12) and a feeding member. The transport conduit (15) connects each milk discharge conduit to the central milk-receiving unit for the transport of milk from each milking station to the central receiving unit. The feeding member of each milking station is arranged to feed the milk from the milk-collecting unit to the transport conduit (15) via the milk discharge conduit (12). The transport conduit (15) is arranged to permit said transport of milk by means of the gravity force.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: DeLaval Holding ABInventors: Epke Bosma, Björn Johansson
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Patent number: 7198004Abstract: A bird feeder of the tube-type having a vertically disposed hollow body portion formed of metal mesh material or a clear plastic material. The body portion has a plurality of inverted, truncated funnel members or baffles positioned therein in a vertically spaced-apart relationship which maintain a certain amount of feed at that level even though the main feed supply has dropped below that funnel member or baffle.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2006Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Raymon W. Lush
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Patent number: 7198005Abstract: A pet feeder includes a base and a lid, the base defining a bowl and the lid defining a reservoir. The base and lid are connected by a hinge, such that the lid can be retained in an open position. Solid food or liquid flows from the reservoir, through a valve, into the bowl. In the case of liquid, the supply of liquid in the bowl is continuously replenished due to the flow of liquid, by gravity, into the bowl. In another embodiment, the feeder may include a single base and separate bowls and separate lids, so that the feeder may provide both solid food and liquid simultaneously. When the lid is closed, the pet feeder becomes a compact structure that can be easily stored and transported.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2006Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Ralph F. Polimeni, Jr.
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Patent number: 7198006Abstract: A cat litter box with a pivotable container housed on a frame, the tray floor of which forms a collection tray for cat litter and the like. A cleaning mechanism is arranged standing in the container and reaching to the floor of the tray, with which cleaning mechanism, when the container is pivoted in one direction to clean it, waste matter, particularly feces, can be separated from the cat litter. The container possesses a storage chamber for the separated waste matter which can be moved with the container, which chamber is formed by a bag, the entrance of which chamber is arranged above the cleaning mechanism in the position of use.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2002Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Klaus Fischer
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Patent number: 7198007Abstract: In order to clean dog paws, the dog is placed on a perforated intermediate bottom located inside a tub-like basin, and the basin is filled with water to a level higher than the intermediate bottom until the paws are submerged. Air is injected, preferably in a lateral and/or downward manner, out of a first branch of an air supply system into the water by a blower, said branch being located underneath the intermediate bottom. The air is distributed in the water and the pressure thereof is sufficient for removing dirt adhering to the paws by bubbling and without spraying. After a cleaning phase, the pressure of the compressed air is maintained in the first branch, as long as it is immersed in the water, at a level sufficient for preventing dirt from entering the air outflow openings. During a drying phase, a second branch of the air supply system is supplied with air, said second branch being provided with at least one outlet opening for drying air.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2003Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Margot Bestelmeyer
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Patent number: 7198008Abstract: The Scent-A-Wheel device consists of several different parts connected together to form a device that acts like a carousel. The device consists of a hub (ball bearing or axle design), arms attached to the hub (“spokes”), a two-piece, adjustable shaft to support that hub and arms, and a base of four “legs” to provide stability and support. A ball bearing within the hub allows the hub and arms to turn on the base.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Alvin Harden Poyner
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Patent number: 7198009Abstract: An electronic apparatus (1) supported against a dog's skin to control vocalizing by the dog electronically converts the vocalizing into a sequence of signals representing frequencies of the vocalizing, and operates a controller to determine if each measured frequency lies within any of a plurality of predetermined frequency sub-ranges and if so, increments cumulative totals of the frequencies which lie in the sub-ranges, respectively, to provide a plurality of cumulative totals that represent a frequency spectrum of the vocalizing. The controller is operated to determine whether the barking sounds constitute a valid bark by comparing the frequency spectrum to a predetermined valid bark frequency spectrum. Appropriate aversive stimulus signals are produced between first and second stimulus electrodes if the vocalizing sounds constitute a valid bark.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Tri-Tronics, Inc.Inventors: Timothy J. Crist, Francisco J Napolez
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Patent number: 7198010Abstract: A method and system for retrieving a lost animal and rewarding a location such as an animal shelter for successful retrieval of the lost animal is provided. An animal owner subscribes to the system, providing subscriber information and identifying data of his animal. The subscriber reports to a central database system that his animal is lost and is provided with a compiled database of locations where a lost animal may be located. Using the database, the subscriber transmits or delivers the subscriber information and the identifying data of the animal to the locations. Alternatively, the central database system transmits the identifying data and the subscriber information to the locations. A reward is provided to the location where the lost animal is retrieved.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: Louis B. Meadows
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Patent number: 7198011Abstract: There is provided a two stroke internal combustion engine comprising a cylinder and a piston. The cylinder has a cylinder head, a wall and a crankcase. The wall extends between the cylinder head and the crankcase. The cylinder head has a first opening and a second opening. The piston is mounted for reciprocation in the cylinder. The cylinder head, the wall and the piston form a combustion chamber. The engine further includes a direct injector and a spark plug. The direct injector is mounted in the first opening for injecting fuel into the combustion chamber. The spark plug is mounted in the second opening for igniting a fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber. The engine also includes an inlet port and an exhaust port. The inlet port and the exhaust port are in the wall of the cylinder. The exhaust port is exposed by the piston before the inlet port on an exhaust cycle so a pressurized exhaust gas is substantially exhausted before the inlet port opens.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2004Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: M. Nhut Truong
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Patent number: 7198012Abstract: A valve timing control apparatus includes first and second valve timing control operating sections. The first operating section is arranged to alter a rotational phase of a first output member with respect to a first input member driven by an internal combustion engine. The second operating section is arranged to alter a rotational phase of an intake or exhaust camshaft of the engine with respect to the first output member.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Seiji Suga, Tomoya Tsukada, Hidekazu Yoshida
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Patent number: 7198013Abstract: A device and method for the relative adjustment of the angle of rotation of a camshaft with respect to the crankshaft of an internal combustion engine that utilizes a hydraulically activated actuating element, through the adjustment of which the phase position of the camshaft can be directly or indirectly changed. The actuating element is bordered by two pressure chambers, which can be loaded with or relieved of hydraulic fluid via control lines. A control valve is provided, which, depending upon an operating state of the internal combustion engine, forces a flow of oil that is forced from an oil reservoir by an oil pump via a first control line to a first pressure chamber, while oil from a second pressure chamber is returned to the oil reservoir via a second control line, and vice versa. At least one controlled bypass is arranged between the two pressure chambers. In this manner, the speed of adjustment of the camshaft adjuster can be advantageously increased.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignees: Dr. Ing. h.c.F. Porsche Aktiengesellschaft, Hydraulik Ring GmbHInventors: Edwin Palesch, Gordon Neudoerfer, Holger Schwarz
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Patent number: 7198014Abstract: In a valve timing control apparatus, a relative rotational phase between a drive rotational member rotated with a crankshaft and a driven rotational member rotated with a camshaft is controlled by a relative rotational phase-controlling mechanism utilizing a fluid pressure in a fluid pressure chamber divided by a vane. The relative rotational phase can be restrained by a locking mechanism at an intermediate phase between most advanced and most retarded angle phases. As a minimum set torque applied by a biasing mechanism to the drive rotational member relative to the driven rotational member, a larger minimum torque required for change from the most retarded angle phase to the intermediate phase during cranking, at a temperature before warming up while fluid pressure is discharged, or at a minimum temperature for relative rotational phase control while a fluid pressure remains, is selected.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoji Kanada, Osamu Komazawa
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Patent number: 7198015Abstract: A variable valve timing system in which the cam shaft is rotated with respect to the crankshaft position by moving a shaft disposed interior to the cam shaft longitudinally has been developed. The variable valve timing system provides for varying the timing of the opening and closing of an engine's poppet valves (relative to the crankshaft angular position) to enhance the engine's efficiency and output. The timing system can be used with both intake and exhaust valves in both diesel and gasoline engines. The timing system is inexpensive to produce, and performs reliably over a lengthy period of time.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Inventor: George Wayne Mobley
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Patent number: 7198016Abstract: An engine cranking system includes an engine, a cranking motor coupled to the engine, a battery, a capacitor and an ignition switch. A first relay is connected between the cranking motor and system ground. A second relay is moveable between at least an open-circuit condition and a closed-circuit position to complete an electrical path connecting the capacitor with the cranking motor. The first relay is connected between the capacitor and the second relay. In one embodiment, a running engine sensory component is coupled between the first relay and system ground. In another embodiment, the engine cranking system includes a running engine sensory component connected to a relay and a control module connected to the relay and the capacitor. In one embodiment, a momentary switch is coupled between the capacitor and the relay.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Kold Ban International, Ltd.Inventor: James O. Burke
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Patent number: 7198017Abstract: An intake manifold 10 in the air intake tract of an internal combustion engine which has a main flow cross section 14 between an oncoming flow side 12 and an outgoing flow side 13. At least one resonator chamber 23 is arranged on the circumference of the main flow cross section 14 in communication with the main flow cross section 14. The resonator chamber 23 is surrounded by side walls 30 and closed by a cover 28, with the side walls 30 of the resonator chamber 23 and the wall 15 forming the main flow cross section 14 being manufactured together in one piece. A parting plane 31 situated between the cover 28 and the side walls 30 of the resonator chamber 23 is arranged outside of the wall 15 forming the main flow cross section 14.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Mann & Hummel GmbHInventors: Sabine Vogt, Juergen Werner
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Patent number: 7198018Abstract: A cylinder block in an engine including: the cylinder block; a plurality of bearing caps for supporting a crankshaft mounted to the cylinder block; a number of cap bolts fixing the plural bearing caps to the cylinder block; a plurality of bearing cap beams, disposed one beneath each of the plural bearing caps, supporting the plural bearing caps; and a number of beam bolts fixing the plural bearing cap beams to a skirt portion of the cylinder block, wherein each of the plural bearing cap beams and the corresponding one of the plural bearing cap are fixed to the cylinder block by two or more of the cap bolts, and two or more of the cap bolts and two or more beam bolts associated with a same one of the plural bearing cap beams are disposed at close proximity sequentially.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignees: Mitsubishi Jidosha Engineering Kabushiki Kaisha, Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kunitoshi Kajiwara, Yoshifumi Yamashita, Tomoya Bokkai, Tetsuro Miyashita, Masayuki Kamo, Shinichi Murata
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Patent number: 7198019Abstract: A lubricating system for a marine engine provides a lubrication deflector which extends from the cylinder block of the engine toward rotating surfaces of a crankshaft and/or connecting rod. A lubrication passage is provided as an integral part of a cylinder block of the marine engine to direct a flow of liquid lubricant away from the lubrication deflectors and downwardly toward a lubrication reservoir, or sump.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Brunswick CorporationInventor: David J. Belter