Patents Issued in April 24, 2007
  • Patent number: 7207122
    Abstract: An apparatus for applying lap siding including a main body chassis, a lap siding clamp member, an exposure rod, and a lap siding rest platform. The main body chassis includes a main body base plate with a siding clamp rod support member and a siding backing member positioned opposite and substantially parallel to the siding clamp rod support member. The siding clamp includes a threaded siding clamp rod which adjustably engages the siding clamp rod support member, and has a clamping head attached to its inner end. The exposure rod extends substantially perpendicularly upwardly from the main body base plate. The lap siding rest platform is substantially parallel with the main body base plate and is attached to the exposure rod in a manner adapted to allow for vertical adjustment thereof to a predetermined height above the main body base plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Wayne J. Ellis
  • Patent number: 7207123
    Abstract: Two rotors 18a, 18b each housing a honeycomb structure 25 carrying an absorbent is driven for rotation by a common motor 19. Partitioning members 17 define an absorbing zone S and a recovery zone U in the rotor depending on the angular positional relationship between the partitioning members 17 and the rotor corresponding thereto. In the absorbing zone S, the absorbent removes moisture and organic matters from air passing therethrough. In the recovery zone U, recovery of the absorbent deteriorated by absorbing the moisture and the organic matters is preformed by using heated dry air. Air sucked from a transfer space 10 of the processing system sequentially passes through the absorbing zones of both the rotors via a circulation passage 20, thereafter returned to the transfer space. A part of clean dry air having passed through the absorbing zones of both the rotors is supplied into an exhaust passage 21, and is heated by a heater, and passes through the recovery zones of both the rotors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignees: Tokyo Electron Limited, Nichias Corporation
    Inventors: Takashi Tanahashi, Takanobu Asano, Ken Nakao, Katsuhiro Yamashita
  • Patent number: 7207124
    Abstract: A clothes drying machine having a sensing switch easily installed on a motor bracket for sensing whether or not a belt for rotating a rotary drum is loose or cut. The sensing switch includes a first insertion hole having a longitudinally extended shape and a second insertion hole having a circular shape, and the motor bracket includes first and second insertion members respectively inserted into the first and second insertion holes. An extended portion of the first insertion member has a size and a shape corresponding to those of the first insertion hole so that the sensing switch is fixed without movement when the first insertion member is inserted into the first insertion hole. A flat portion of the second insertion member is provided with a screw hole formed therethrough so that the sensing switch is firmly fixed to the motor bracket by inserting a screw into the second insertion hole and the screw hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Jin Doo Kim
  • Patent number: 7207125
    Abstract: A midsole insert for use with a shoe is provided. The midsole insert includes a heel portion, a midfoot portion, and a forefoot portion, and a plurality of grid systems located on the midsole insert, where each grid system includes a plurality of openings cut into the midsole insert forming a lattice pattern. The plurality of grids may be located on at least one of the heel portion, the midfoot portion, and the forefoot portion, constructed to provide energy return features. The midsole may further be constructed and arranged to attach directly to an upper during a manufacturing step, to secure the shape of the upper on a last. By attaching directly to the upper, the midsole insert eliminates the need for a stroble board, which is typically used to secure the upper to the last. By eliminating the stroble board, the present invention places the midsole insert and the energy return grid system closer to the foot, which maximizes reaction time and performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Saucony, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Jeppesen, Aaron Azevedo, Gregg Duffy
  • Patent number: 7207126
    Abstract: A device including a cover and a shaft inserted in the thickness of the front portion of the sole, and constituting a journalled system, adapted to ensure control of the flexural rigidity of a shoe, in particular a snowboard boot, or adapted to ensure the protection of the front surface of the shoe, partially or in its entirety. All of the elements forming the system can be removable. The journal which it determines provides the cover with a front-to-rear mobility which is presented, in closed position, against the front surface of the shoe. Connected to the latter by a retaining mechanism specific to the shoe, the cover offers, due to the properties and the shaping of its constituent materials, a resistance to the crushing and flexural and torsional deformation of the shoe in its front portion during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Salomon S.A.
    Inventor: Alain Gantier
  • Patent number: 7207127
    Abstract: A grab bucket, in particular motor-driven underwater grab bucket, has first and second half-scoops. The scoops can be moved relative to on another from an open position into a closed position by a hydraulic cylinder. The opening angle of the half-scoops is monitored by a sensor which is connected to a control and monitoring device. The sensor is integrated in the hydraulic cylinder and generates an actuating-travel signal which corresponds to the actuating travel of the hydraulic cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Wolfgang Rohr GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Rohr
  • Patent number: 7207128
    Abstract: A pair of elongate holding devices (7a, 7c) extending along opposite sides of an imaginary rectangle have respective longitudinal recesses (12, 21) which hold respective edge portions (6a, 6c) of a poster (6). One holding device (7c) has a fixed bearing member (16) and a movable member (18) which contains the recess (21) and which is pivotable about a pivot axis (19) from an active position, in which the recess (21) is open in a direction away from the opposite holding device so that the poster (6) tums back on itself near the edge portion (6c), the poster being under tension between the pair of holding devices, to a passive position, in which tension in the poster is released sufficiently to allow the edge portion (6c) to be removed from the recess (21). The holding device (7a) is preferably an upper holding device with an undercut slot (12) slidably receiving a bead (14) at the upper edge portion (6a) of the poster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Sam Cook
  • Patent number: 7207129
    Abstract: A display panel for use on a golf cart is composed of layered transparent panels and frame members adhered together. Two transparent panels are separated by a set of spacer members to form a cavity between the transparent panels. The cavity is accessible via an opening at one end of the display panel and is sealed with a removable spacer member inserted between the transparent panels. Two frame members are adhered respectively to each of the two transparent panels. The display panel is mounted to the canopy supports of a golf cart with clamps attached to each end of the display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Kevmar Companies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Alan Buchanan, Kevin D. King
  • Patent number: 7207130
    Abstract: An over-and-under shotgun apparatus includes a radius track which serves as a hinge for articulating the barrel portion of the shotgun apparatus relative to the receiver/stock portion of the shotgun apparatus. The radius track is defined by a female or concave portion formed on the monoblock attached to the shotgun barrels, and a male or convex portion formed on the frame or receiver section. The radius track defines a pivot axis that is spaced from the radius track. The radius track provides a substantial surface area sufficient to absorb all of the recoil force generated when the shotgun is discharged. No additional abutment surfaces are needed. A further aspect of the invention involves a novel trigger assembly, including a striker which moves toward the front end of the firearm when the firearm is cocked, and moves toward the butt end of the firearm when the trigger is pulled to discharge the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Browning Arms Company
    Inventors: Joseph F. N. Rousseau, Dwight M. Potter
  • Patent number: 7207131
    Abstract: Integral extensions to aid in the extraction of ammunition magazines from ammunition pouches are provided by permanently attaching a handle to existing or modified floor plates. In one embodiment, a substitute floor plate is molded with a handle projecting from its outer face. In a second embodiment, a handle with a grip and a terminal end is provided with an attachment structure on the terminal end. Floor plates are then either modified by cutting anchoring holes to allow for the attachment of such handles without hindering use in an ammunition magazine or molded with said anchoring holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Richard Mark Fitzpatrick
  • Patent number: 7207132
    Abstract: A bait rigging holder includes a V-shaped trough supports the bait along its entire length during insertion of rigging needles through the bait. The trough includes a frontal slot that allows the rigging needle to be inserted through the jaw and nose when the bait is vertically oriented. The trough includes a side slot for transverse insertion of the rigging needle through the gill covers, preparatory to tying closure. Both insertions may be made without encountering any point dulling surfaces and allow the fish to be removed after penetration for manually completing the rigging operations. The holder includes provisions for holding a plurality of needles of varying sizes, as well as a support for rigging spools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Scott Parsons
  • Patent number: 7207133
    Abstract: A tip-up fishing device includes a cross frame having a horizontal section that spans a hole cut in the ice and a vertical section that supports a spool of fishing line down in the hole. A trip device operates to release a spring elastic flag pole when a fish strikes the line. The flag pole springs upright and is caused to depress a push-button transmitter switch mounted on the frame. The switch sends a signal to a remote receiver which generates an alarm signal to alert the fisherman.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventors: Linda Schiemann, Richard E. Schiemann
  • Patent number: 7207134
    Abstract: A rotating artificial bait in body of artificial bait, it is put together with half-sectioned bait shell, isolated layers with proper room are formed inside, isolated layer and block & arc slot at center of shell can embed in tip of mandrel of passive vane and active rotating vane with mandrel, so that passive vane is built in middle of spacial groove, active rotating vane is fixed in two sides of shell so as to make a coaxial core but not communicating each other, in addition, put several ball beads inside spacial groove so that ball beads can move close to vane of passive vane, magnets are fixed at end of passive vane and active rotating vane respectively; these magnets can produce mutual magnetic attraction so that active rotating vane can drive passive vane to rotate synchronously and let vane of passive vane collide ball bead successively, the collision may produce sound frequency to attract fish and eye-like vivid effect, therefore, it may promote possibility of attracting big fish to eat bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Tsung-Hsi Tsai
  • Patent number: 7207135
    Abstract: An audio fishing lure system for attracting fish using preselected audio content includes a fishing pole, a fishing line, a lure or hook, an audio source, an aural encoder, and an underwater transducer. Sound reproduced by the audio source, such as a radio, cassette player, or digital playback device, is electrically communicated to the encoder, which correspondingly generates sound waves that modulate the fishing line. The fishing line is optimized to serve as a transmission line. The audio information propagates along the fishing line, into the water, and to the transducer, where the mechanical waves are transformed to sound waves and transmitted into the water, thereby delivering sound to the region about the bait and attracting fish responsive to such content. Preferably, the audio source is provided with a selectable format of audio recordings of bait species having demonstrated or empirical attractiveness to target fish species.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Jimmie D. Williams, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7207136
    Abstract: A protective heat absorbing and heat reflective covering material comprising an open mesh weave of scrim material, the mesh having warp and weft strips forming a substantially thin layer having opposed major surfaces, where at least one of the warp or weft strip materials is a heat absorbing or heat reflecting material, and at least one of the major surfaces of the scrim material has a discontinuous coating having heat reflecting or heat absorbing properties opposite to that of the warp and or weft strip, the discontinuous coating thereon at least partially covering the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Peter Hinsperger
  • Patent number: 7207137
    Abstract: The invention relates to a set of components used for producing a load-bearing structure for gratings, comprising pillars and support beams which are removably connected to the pillars via couplings. Flat network-type supporting frames of variable sizes can be formed by using couplings that preferably comprise four connecting elements which are arranged in a cruciform manner for the corresponding connecting elements of the supporting beams. A vertical space can be created between two supporting frames by means of spacers that are disposed on the pillars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: F.von Langsdorff Licensing, Ltd.
    Inventor: Georg Wagner
  • Patent number: 7207138
    Abstract: A gravity feed irrigation apparatus for supplying a flow of water at a controlled rate to a plant and having a lightweight shell-type enclosure that serves as a cover for a water reservoir attached to a water inlet in the cover. The reservoir is in the form of a watertight bladder that is in fluid communication with a flexible tube having a regulator for controlling the rate of water flow from the reservoir through the tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: James R. Hauser
  • Patent number: 7207139
    Abstract: A vacuum pick-up device 20 includes a device body 22 having a pick-up tip opening 78 to which vacuum pressure is supplied. The vacuum pick-up device 20 further includes a mechanical release assisting device 36 that assists in the release of a grasped object contemporaneously with or slightly subsequent to the cessation of vacuum pressure. A manifold 38 may be included to efficiently and effectively supply vacuum pressure to the device body 22 from a vacuum pressure source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser Company
    Inventors: Michael K. McKinnis, William C. Carlson, Jeffrey E. Hartle
  • Patent number: 7207140
    Abstract: The invention provides a new form of vegetative propagating material, referred to as “the grass plantlet”, as well as a method for producing it. The new vegetative planting material and the method by which it is obtained make it possible to replicate and increase both warm and cool season grasses more rapidly than by the conventional methods of seeding, sprigging, or plugging. Three to five new, clean, and pure generations of a newly developed seeded or vegetative cultivar can be obtained each year. Outcrossing, the need for burning and possibly for herbicide use are eliminated by the present invention. The present methodology embodies a sterile production system resulting in grass plantlets that are free of nematodes, pathogenic fungi, and damaging insects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Buckeye Bluegrass Farms, Inc.
    Inventor: Henry F. Decker
  • Patent number: 7207141
    Abstract: A portable pet portal insert for a sliding patio door includes separate top, center, and bottom modules that can be assembled together through use of tongue and groove fittings therebetween, with the bottom module having a cutout portion adapted for receiving a pet portal, the pet portal including a pivotal flap, a cam operated lock for preventing movement of the flap away from an associated frame, and a weather seal mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Accession, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas D. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7207142
    Abstract: A system for signaling the position of a movable barrier includes a movable barrier; a motor coupled to the movable barrier for moving the movable barrier between limit positions; a position detection device that monitors the movable barrier to generate a barrier position signal; and an indication device that receives the barrier position signal and indicate a position of the movable barrier relative to the limit positions. The system also includes an operation mechanism for controlling the motor and at least one transmitter device which generates a transmission signal received by the operator mechanism to energize the motor. The system further includes a blocking switch which generates a blocking signal received by the operator mechanism to prevent receipt of a transmission signal from a device other than one associated with the indication device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Wayne-Dalton Corp.
    Inventor: Willis J. Mullet
  • Patent number: 7207143
    Abstract: The invention is a joint cover assembly for covering a gap adjacent an edge of a panel that covers a sub-surface, and a method of covering such a gap. The assembly includes a molding having a foot, a first arm, and a second arm. The foot is positioned along a longitudinal axis of the molding, and the first arm extends generally perpendicularly to the foot. The second arm may also extend generally perpendicularly to the foot. A tab depends from at least one of the first and second arms. At least one of the tab and the foot engage a track in order to position the assembly over the gap. The method includes the steps of placing the foot in the gap, pressing the respective panel engaging surfaces into contact with respective panels, and configuring at least one of the tab and the foot to cooperate to retain the molding in the gap when the assembly is in an installed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Pergo (Europe) AB
    Inventor: Oliver Stanchfield
  • Patent number: 7207144
    Abstract: A device for aiding installation of suspended ceilings includes a first cross member having an upper face to be disposed adjacent a bottom face of a main-tee and a second cross member extending from the first cross member at 90° and having a an upper face to be disposed adjacent a bottom face of a cross-tee. The first cross member has an upwardly extending retention lip having a slot formed therein to frictional receive a portion of the main-tee in a manner to retain the device thereagainst. The second cross member has an upwardly extending guide lip which in conjunction with the adjacent upper face provides an abutment against which the cross-tee may be disposed such that the cross-tee is at 90° to the main-tee thereby enabling easy permanent riveting of the tee to the wall angle. A method of installing a ceiling grid is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Dale Stuart Shepard
  • Patent number: 7207145
    Abstract: A panel for polypropylene injection molded siding, and for similar materials and/or uses, is mounted in lapped courses with panels attached at butt joints in a direction of elongation. Complementary tabs and slots at the panel ends can be engaged by end-to-end approach of the abutting panels. Additionally, openings for the tabs permit engagement from a position in which the panel ends are already overlapped, which reduces or eliminates the need for endwise assembly space. The slots can be discontinuous on one or both sides, openings permitting lateral insertion of the tabs at gaps, whereupon movement of the tabs along the slots engages the joint. The panels can simulate wood siding and include a step between simulated courses. A gap is provided in the edge of the panel at the step, thus forming an opening for the tab to enter and move along the slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: CertainTeed Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Stucky, Robert D. Shaw, Stephen W. Steffes
  • Patent number: 7207146
    Abstract: A block used to construct a wall. The block has a front and rear surfaces, top and bottom surfaces, and side surfaces. The bottom surface of the block has a projection that extends downwardly therefrom and which is configured to engage one or more blocks in an adjacent course of blocks to prevent movement therebetween. Depending upon the configuration of the wall, the projection may engage a portion of the rear surface of an adjacent course of blocks, or may be received within one of two channels in the top surface of the adjacent course of blocks. By selecting the position of the projection relative to the adjacent course of blocks, differently configured walls may be constructed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Kelly J Morrell
  • Patent number: 7207147
    Abstract: A wall structure (10, 110) and method of construction. The wall structure (10, 110) comprises a plurality of preformed, lightweight blocks (12, 112) supported and interconnected by a plurality of elongated, vertically oriented, collateral support beams (16, 116). Preferably, the support beams (16, 116) are operatively connected to an appropriate substructure (62, 100) and the lightweight blocks (12, 112) are operatively connected to the support beams (16, 116). The blocks (12, 112) and support beams (16, 116) are configured so that when they are connected to each other, a space is formed between the wall structure (10, 110) and the substructure (62, 100). Thus, an assembled wall structure (10) may be setoff from a substructure and the substructure (62, 100) may be used for other purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Alliance Concrete Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Raymond R. Price, Gerald P. Price
  • Patent number: 7207148
    Abstract: A downwardly opening upper channel member (10) is positioned above an upwardly opening lower channel member (12). A lower end portion of the stud (14) is received in the lower channel member (12). An insert (54) is received in the upper channel member (10) at the location of each stud (14). Each insert (54) cooperates with the flanges (20, 22) of the upper channel member (10) to form a plurality of vertical sockets (102), one for each of the studs (14). Upper end portions of the studs (14) extend into the sockets (102). In a wall construction, wall board sheeting (WS) is connected to the stud (14) and the lower channel member (12) but not to the upper channel member (10) or the insert (54). As a result, relative vertical movement is permitted between the upper channel member (10) and the rest of the wall which include the studs (14), the lower channel member (12) and the wall board sheeting (WS).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Matt F. Surowiecki
  • Patent number: 7207149
    Abstract: Anchor 10 for reinforcing a structure against displacement forces and a method of installation includes drilling a borehole 50 in an anchor medium 110 adjacent the structure A length of roving 21 composed of filaments 24 is doubled and pushed into borehole 50 with free end 23 of roving 21 protruding. Backfill grout 41 or resin 42 is pumped or poured into bore hole 50 to embed roving 21 Filaments 24 of free end 23 are spread apart and attached to the structure by adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventors: Edward R. Fyfe, Steven T. Brokken
  • Patent number: 7207150
    Abstract: A method of forming a connection, and a connector, that attaches supported members, such as deck boards, to supporting members, such as deck joists. In some forms, each connector attaches a single supported member. In others, the connector attaches two supported members. Many forms of the connector are possible, but all are narrow enough to fit between two supported members laid side-by-side, all are attached to the supported members by fasteners, and all are driven directly into the supporting members. The resulting structure is characterized by the apparent absence of nails or other fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Simpson Strong-Tie Company, Inc.
    Inventors: William F. Leek, Charles-Henri Mathis
  • Patent number: 7207151
    Abstract: A structural panel for use in building structures or in the formation, finish or decoration thereof includes an outer sheet and a connector sheet with a plurality of collapsible or compressible dividers therebetween. The panel in a rest condition is expanded and of a desired thickness for final use but can be compressed into a relatively thin thickness or profile for shipping purposes. The panel is very lightweight but structurally strong and can be selectively bent in one transverse direction if desired. The panel can be easily cut or formed into any predetermined size or shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Swiszcz, Ko Kuperus, Wendell B. Colson, Jason T. Throne
  • Patent number: 7207152
    Abstract: An inventive method, system and apparatus are provided for syringe handling, and more particularly, for syringe labeling, filling and capping operations. To facilitate syringe handling, an inventive apparatus includes a plurality of syringe bodies interconnected in a predetermined orientation by a belt. Such belt may be of pliable construction and may define a predetermined spacing in between adjacent ones of the syringe bodies, such predetermined spacing corresponding with a distance between holders provided in a handling apparatus. The syringe handling apparatus may provide for the placement of contents-related information on belt segments between adjacent syringe bodies and for separating the belt segments, wherein a flap is left interconnected to each syringe body. The syringe handling apparatus may alternatively or also provide for automated filling of the syringe bodies wherein cap removal, filling and cap replacement operations are completed free from manual handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Baxa Corporation
    Inventor: Brian Eugene Baldwin
  • Patent number: 7207153
    Abstract: The vertical form fill and seal (VFFS) machine is configured to place a fitment, such as a spout, on the longitudinal fin seal of a container. The fitment dispatched from a vibratory bowl via an adjustable track. The fitment is then secured to the edges of the film by longitudinal sealing bars and the edges of the film are likewise secured to each other by the longitudinal sealing bars sealing bars thereby forming a longitudinal fin seal. Depressions are machined in the machine direction center of the sealing bars in order to accommodate the shape of the fitment. The film is drawn over an oversized collar and an undersized tube so as to create excess film in order to form gussets providing a stand-alone capability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Art Malin
  • Patent number: 7207154
    Abstract: There is provided an intelligent luggage protection pouch according to the invention that is tamper resistant, easily identifiable, and inspection friendly (i.e. x-ray and canine searchable). The intelligent luggage protection pouch fully surrounds luggage, protects against damage to the surface of the luggage, withstands the weight of any luggage placed within it, and prevents loss of the contents of the luggage. The intelligent luggage protection pouch does not require specialized machines, tools, or knowledge. Preferably, the intelligent luggage protection pouch is disposable, environmentally friendly, and universally sized to accommodate luggage of almost any size and shape. The intelligent luggage protection pouch may be included in a kit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Albert Araujo
  • Patent number: 7207155
    Abstract: A method of packing packets (2) of cigarettes, in particular an orderly group (1) of packets (2) of cigarettes, wherein the orderly group (1) is packed solely in a sheet (11) of transparent heat-seal plastic packing material, which is folded about the orderly group (1) to form a tubular wrapping having two tubular portions (21) projecting with respect to the orderly group (1), each tubular portion (21) being defined by four flaps (18b, 18c, 18d, 18f) facing in pairs; the flaps (18b, 18c, 18d, 18f) are folded squarely onto the orderly group (1) in a given sequence, so as to at least partly superimpose the flaps (18b, 18c, 18d, 18f); and the superimposed flaps (18b, 18c, 18d, 18f) are then sealed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: G. D Societa' per Azioni
    Inventors: Fiorenzo Draghetti, Silvano Boriani, Ivanoe Bertuzzi
  • Patent number: 7207156
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for bagging ice. The apparatus comprises an ice maker for making ice and a hopper for receiving for receiving the ice from the ice maker. The apparatus further includes a roller drum, operatively associated with the hopper, for measuring the ice and delivering of the ice. A bag delivery mechanism for placing the ice in a bag is also included, with the bag delivery mechanism including a bag supply mechanism, a blower fan engaged to open the mouth of the bag to receive the product, and a heat sealer that seals the open mouth of the bag once the bag is filled with the ice. A control device is included that manages and monitors the roller drum and bag delivery mechanism and allows transmission of the collected data to the internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: ICEX Holdings, Ltd., Inc.
    Inventor: Mark C. Metzger
  • Patent number: 7207157
    Abstract: A heat-shrinkable multilayer film comprises (A) a first layer, which is an outer layer, and which comprises polyolefin; (B) a second layer comprising at least one member selected from the group consisting of polyolefin, polystyrene, and polyurethane, wherein the second layer has a thickness of from about 10 to 50 percent, based on a total film thickness; (C) a third layer comprising a polyamide having a melting point of 160° C. and below; and (D) a fourth layer, which is an outer layer, the fourth layer comprising polyester. The first layer preferably serves as a seal layer in a heat-shrinkable bag. The third layer provides enhanced orientability of the tape from which the film is formed, thereby providing improved total free shrink and lower shrink temperature. The third layer also provides greater optical clarity and permits the presence of a thicker polyamide layer, thereby increasing impact strength and improving the O2-barrier of the film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Cryovac, Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Wolf, Ram K. Ramesh, George D. Wofford
  • Patent number: 7207158
    Abstract: A folding method and device, whereby a tubular wrapping is formed about a product by inserting the product inside a U-shaped pocket together with a sheet of wrapping material, a first lateral portion of which is interposed between the product and a first lateral wall of the pocket, and a second lateral portion of which, opposite the first, is folded outside and beyond the pocket and crosswise to the first lateral portion; the tubular wrapping being closed by moving the first lateral wall of the pocket outwards, simultaneously moving a contrast member onto the first lateral portion, and then folding the second lateral portion, by means of an external folding member, onto the product and so as to overlap the first lateral portion; and the tubular wrapping being fixed inside the pocket by withdrawing the external folding member, simultaneously closing the first lateral wall onto the product, and withdrawing the contrast member (34) from the pocket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: G.D Societa' per Azioni
    Inventors: Fabrizio Tale', Mario Spatafora
  • Patent number: 7207159
    Abstract: An unsealing method for unsealing a packaging structure for a liquid container in which the packaging structure includes a covering member having an air vent sealing portion, a liquid supply sealing portion, and a connecting region which covers a connecting side of the liquid container and which connects the air vent and liquid supply scaling portions. The liquid supply sealing portion effects non-adhering sealing, and the connecting portion provides resistance against unsealing of the liquid supply portion. The covering member also has first and second regions which respectively include first and second resistance generation portions for generating resistance against unsealing. According to the unsealing method, the air vent is unsealed, the first resistance generating portion is separated from the liquid container, the liquid supply portion is unsealed, and the second resistance generating portion is separated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tatsuo Nanjo, Masanori Takenouchi, Hajime Yamamoto, Eiichiro Shimizu
  • Patent number: 7207160
    Abstract: A vacuum packaging appliance for forming a hermetically sealed evacuated container. The appliance includes a lid adapted to define a vacuum chamber when moved to a closed position relative to a trough in the lower portion of the appliance. The trough in the lower portion of the appliance is removable from the lower portion of the appliance. In one embodiment, the appliance includes pneumatic latches that are used to hold the lid in a substantially fixed position relative to the lower portion of the appliance. Additionally, a single vacuum source can be used to active the pneumatic latches and the evacuate the vacuum chamber. The appliance is further adapted for connection to vacuum sealing attachments for various containers whereby the containers can be selectively evacuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Sunbeam Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexandre A. N. Baptista
  • Patent number: 7207161
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming stacks of flat workpieces and for banding or banderoling the stacks includes a stacking station, a banding or banderoling station, and an endless conveyor for cyclically conveying stacking shafts provided to the endless conveyor. A respective first band guide is formed on a respective one of the stacking shafts and a second band guide is disposed in the banding station. The second band guide together with the respective first band guide form an at least approximately intrinsically closed guide path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG
    Inventors: Markus Belmann, Udo Ganter
  • Patent number: 7207162
    Abstract: A chin chain for bits/bridles used in equestrian sports (e.g. curb bits) has a first chain element and a second chain element. The first element has members formed of loops that are twisted in one direction, and the second element has members formed of loops that are twisted in the opposite direction. The first element and the second element are linked by at least one connecting ring and are capable of being connected to the bridle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Karin Deffner
  • Patent number: 7207163
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a size-adjustable shoe for hoofed animals consisting of at least one protecting portion and a fixing portion wherein the protecting portion comprises at least one sole, a cap extending to the front and to both sides and a fixing device, and the fixing portion comprises at least one heel portion, two side tabs and a fixing device. The heel portion can be attached to the sole with an adjustable spacing, and the fixing devices enable a firm hold of the hoofshoe to the hoof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Manolo Maestrini
  • Patent number: 7207164
    Abstract: A floating header for an agricultural combine, the header having a frame, a support member supporting the frame from the ground, and a suspension variably supporting the frame from the combine. The suspension comprises a sub-frame removable attaching to the combine, links movably attaching the frame and the sub-frame, and one or more float cylinders moveably supporting the frame from the sub-frame. A float circuit connects to the float cylinder, and a float valve connects the float circuit to a main hydraulic circuit on the combine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Duane Michael Bomleny
  • Patent number: 7207165
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for use with a non-frangible object detection mechanism on an agricultural harvester, the detection mechanism including a sensing surface and a sensor for sensing force applied to the sensing surface that is associated with a foreign object adjacent the sensing surface, the harvester including a transport surface along which harvested materials are transported toward the sensing surface, the apparatus including at least first and second ramp members positioned between the transport surface and the sensing surface, the ramp members separated by a gap, each ramp member including a front ramp surface that extends between a front ramp end adjacent the transport surface and a ramp member apex, the ramp member apexes positioned at a location higher than the sensing surface and proximate the sensing surface, wherein, as harvested material and non-frangible objects are conveyed along the transport surface and toward the sensing surface, at least a portion of the harvested material passes betwee
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: John B. Crego, Arthur George Haas, Michael Jacob Digman
  • Patent number: 7207166
    Abstract: A rotary side-pull mower-conditioner includes a gearbox mounted to the header frame at a location spaced vertically above the leftmost cutting unit of the rotary cutterbar. A tongue support projects forwardly from a crossbeam of the mobile carrier frame of the mower-conditioner at a location spaced rightward of the gearbox. A tongue has a rear end coupled to a forward region of the tongue support, and is swingable about an upright axis between a leftmost operating position, wherein the tongue passes forward of the tongue support, and a rightmost transport position. The tongue has a rear section which is approximately at the same height as the gearbox when the header is in a raised transport position. Sufficient clearance exists between the tongue and header when the header is in its lowered working position so as to permit full vertical floating movement of the header without interfering with the tongue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: Roger Dale Stephenson
  • Patent number: 7207167
    Abstract: A manufacturing process of untwisted yarn. Spun yarn is sized and hit during drying. The yarn is untwisted by being twisted in a reverse direction opposite to the spin direction, and/or further twisted in the reverse direction, to develop a high tensile strength and flexibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Inventor: Kwan-Young Kim
  • Patent number: 7207168
    Abstract: An improved method and apparatus for inserting surgical staple drivers into a cartridge, including a base, a cartridge-receiving plate having a channel, upper and lower degating plates having a passage through them, a knife with a sharp edge adjacent the passage and a plunger apparatus that drives the drivers downwardly through the guide passage and into pockets in the cartridge. A cartridge locator plate seats the cartridge against stops in the channel. The cartridge-receiving plate is adjustable relative to the base. The upper and lower degating plates and the knife are not adjustable relative to the base, which avoids the need for re-alignment of the knife and degating plates upon re-mounting on the base. The cartridge-receiving plate is aligned relative to the base. A top riser is adjustably mounted to the base, and a cylinder arm, which holds the plunging apparatus, is non-adjustably mounted to the top riser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: The Schnipke Family Limited Liability Company
    Inventors: Brian T. Doepker, David B. Erhart, Ronald J. Schnipke
  • Patent number: 7207169
    Abstract: A system for purifying an exhaust gas includes a plasma unit and a catalyst unit. The plasma unit generates energetic plasma species which react with particulate matters and nitrogen oxides contained in the exhaust gas. The catalyst unit has a catalyst which reacts with the exhaust gas. The plasma unit is disposed upstream relative to the catalyst unit in a direction of flow of the exhaust gas and the system provides sequential purification for the particulate matters and the nitrogen oxides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Nakanishi, Kenji Dosaka, Masanobu Miki, Keizo Iwama, Kazuhide Terada
  • Patent number: 7207170
    Abstract: A warm-up system is provided for an internal combustion engine equipped with a CO2 absorbing and releasing agent that absorbs CO2 at a temperature in a first temperature range and releases the CO2 at a temperature in a second temperature range that is higher than the first temperature range. The warm-up system increases a temperature of the CO2 absorbing and releasing agent to reach the second temperature range such that the CO2 released from the CO2 absorbing and releasing agent is supplied to a component of the internal combustion engine such as an intake manifold and an exhaust gas purification catalyst.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takao Fukuma
  • Patent number: 7207171
    Abstract: To provide an exhaust gas purifying method and an exhaust gas purifying system capable of efficiently purging the sulfur accumulated in a NOx occluding reduction type catalyst, while preventing fuel consumption from deteriorating and preventing NOx, HC, and CO from being discharged into the atmosphere, in an exhaust gas purifying system constituted by combining a NOx purifying function by the NOx occluding reduction type catalyst with a PM purifying function by a DPF.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Isuzu Motors Limited
    Inventors: Daiji Nagaoka, Masashi Gabe