Patents Issued in May 15, 2007
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Patent number: 7216836Abstract: A system which operates a digitally controlled model railroad transmitting a first command from a first client program to a resident external controlling interface through a first communications transport. A second command is transmitted from a second client program to the resident external controlling interface through a second communications transport. The first command and the second command are received by the resident external controlling interface which queues the first and second commands. The resident external controlling interface sends third and fourth commands representative of the first and second commands, respectively, to a digital command station for execution on the digitally controlled model railroad.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Matthew A. Katzer
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Patent number: 7216837Abstract: An inexpensive, lightweight, thin, portable, compact, reusable, easy to clean, holder that can support a container in an upright, inclined, or inverted position on level, non-level, and solid and liquid surfaces or suspended using a means of suspension, such as a wire. The generally star-shaped main body with radially extended arms, and containing a hole therein used to grip a container. The main body is incurvated into a concave shape by the insertion of a container into the hole located near the center of the main body. The incurvation occurs due to the elasticity of the material used for the main body forming a semi-rigid concave shape capable of supporting the weight of the container. The adaptability of the holder enables a wide range of uses for the invention.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Andres Pineda
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Patent number: 7216838Abstract: An adjustable mounting assembly for hanging a light fixture, fan, or other electrical device from a cathedral ceiling. The adjustable mounting assembly allows an installer to easily mount an electrical device in any location along the apex of a cathedral ceiling. The adjustable mounting assembly includes a central bracket, adjustable mounting bars, and an arrangement for securing an electrical box to the assembly. All the hardware required for securing the mounting assembly to the rafters and for securing the electrical device thereto is included with the assembly for easily accessibility by the installer.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
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Patent number: 7216839Abstract: A water injection rack base for a mast is formed of two semi-bases connected together by hinges, at the top surfaces of the two semi-bases being provided 1-2 water injection holes, on the joint face of the two semi-bases and on the central position being provided semi-cylindrical concaves, thereby forming holes on the top surface for inserting a mast when the two semi-bases are pulled open. This invention is of foldable-type, when in use, it can be easily pulled open, without need of being connected by bolts. The water injection hole is concealed, thereby preventing dusts and litters from entering into the bases, and making this invention novel in appearance. This invention has water discharge holes with easy water discharge, thus reducing labour intensity for workers.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Sun Xiaoqiu
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Patent number: 7216840Abstract: A supporting framework for a swivel chair or table includes a gas spring and a cylinder put on the gas spring. The cylinder includes two opposite holes and a plurality of equally circumferentially spaced longitudinal apertures. Spring loaded posts and lock bars are located in the apertures. A fastening ring rests upon the cylinder and includes a plurality of equally circumferentially spaced openings having a diameter less than a diameter of the posts but slightly larger than a diameter of the lock bars. A hollow cap with the gas spring projected therethrough includes two opposite channels of an inverted L-shape. Two, lock pins are inserted through the channels and the holes for fastening the cap and the cylinder together. Moving the lock pins from upper second positions to lower first positions in the channels will enable the gas spring to rotate or vice versa will lock the same.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Oasyschair Co., LtdInventor: Wen-Jie Fang
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Patent number: 7216841Abstract: A fastening device is provided for hanging a picture or other wall object on a wall. The fastening device includes a clear, flexible, non-resilient carrier having at least two mounting hooks in parallel alignment which are secured to the carrier for engaging wire mounting means on the back of the picture or wall object. This permits the device to be used on irregularly shaped or curved walls or walls with imperfections. Alignment grooves may be provided at opposite ends of the carrier to facilitate proper alignment of the carrier on the wall. Affixation means in the form of either a nail or adhesive mounts are provided for affixing the carrier to the wall. A leveling device, preferably a bubble level, may be included in the carrier. A companion method for hanging the picture or other wall object on a wall using the subject fastening device is further provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: John M. Dodig, Jr.
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Patent number: 7216842Abstract: A pocket former includes an outer barrel having a first rim, a second rim and a frustoconical body portion extending from the first rim to the second rim. A center barrel is connected to the outer barrel and has a proximal lip adjacent the first rim of the outer barrel, a distal lip adjacent the second rim of the outer barrel, and a tubular body portion extending from the proximal lip to the distal lip, and extends beyond both the first rim and the second rim. An annular flange curves out and away from the second rim of the outer barrel. A spiral surface is located on the frustoconical body portion of the outer barrel. A nut surface is located on the tubular body portion of the center barrel adjacent the distal lip.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Lomont Molding, Inc.Inventor: Virgil Allen Watson
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Patent number: 7216843Abstract: A pilot-controlled electromagnetic valve system has an electromagnetic valve block mounted on the top of a manifold block. A bearing surface is formed on the top of the electromagnetic valve block at a position adjacent to a screw accommodating recess formed on a joint surface at a side of the electromagnetic valve block. A washer engagement groove is formed at the bearing surface. An inwardly sloped washer having an engagement portion at the inner side thereof is fitted on a screw. The engagement portion is engaged with a side wall of the washer engagement groove. Thus, the electromagnetic valve block is surely secured to the manifold block with the screw even if the electromagnetic valve block is one at an end of a series of electromagnetic valve blocks constituting a valve manifold, or provided singly.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: SMC CorporationInventors: Yoshihiro Fukano, Masayuki Oshima
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Patent number: 7216844Abstract: The invention relates to pipeline accessories and can be used for working medium flow control in pipelines in particular the pipelines having a high pressure and flow rate of working fluid. Technical result is achieved due to the fact, that the inventive valve comprises a body provided with inlet and outlet holes, a valve seat, a closure, connected to a drive and seal assemblies, where the body comprises a cylindrical insert and the closure is embodied in the form of a hollow sleeve consisted of two coupled cylindrical parts, the external diameter of the part thereof contacting the body constituting 0.9-1.1 of the internal diameter of the part thereof contacting the insert. Said invention makes it possible to reduce the forces for moving the closure and increase the stable operation of the valve. The inventive valve is characterized with respect to existing valves in that it ensures the stability of operational characteristics at any pressure of the medium.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2002Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventors: Petr Vasilievich Malina, Aleksandr Viktorovich Kurlov
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Patent number: 7216845Abstract: A highly efficient apparatus for actuating a valve. An input mechanism drives the apparatus through an input member. Torque is increased as a plurality of driver discs eccentrically rotate about a central shaft member and engage an output member via low-friction, roller means. The output member engages a valve stem which opens or closes the valve.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Dan Jones
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Patent number: 7216846Abstract: A connection apparatus and associated method are provided. The connection apparatus is configured to be connected to a guide line and a conduit so that the conduit can be pulled through a structure by the guide line. In this regard, the apparatus can include a body member that extends between first and second ends and defines a connector for engaging the guide line and an engagement portion for engaging the conduit. In some cases, a second connector is provided to engage a cable, such as an electrical wire, that is disposed in the conduit. Thus, the apparatus can be used to pull the conduit by a leading end thereof, and the apparatus can additionally pull the cable through the structure with the conduit, i.e., without requiring separate operations. The body member can also define a tapered outer contour, such as a frustoconical shaped end, to facilitate the passage of the apparatus and conduit through the structure.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: James Ernest Crawford
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Patent number: 7216847Abstract: A tool is disclosed for installing an object into a cavity region. The tool includes an identifying means for providing a visual indication of an entry point for lowering the object into the cavity region. The entry point is relative to an opening in the cavity region. The tool also includes a capturing means for capturing the object after the object has been lowered into the cavity region from the entry point so as to allow the object to be retracted through the opening. The tool has a body which carries the identifying means and the capturing means. Part of the body is arranged so as to allow at least the identifying means and the capturing means to be inserted into the cavity region through the opening.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: S & P Technologies Pty. LtdInventors: Peter Edward Bowen, Simon Nicholas Pisoni
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Patent number: 7216848Abstract: An adaptor for a cable puller provides for attachment of the cable puller to various sized conduits. The adaptor provides a V-shaped groove in which the conduit rests. A T-shaped clamp secures the adaptor to the conduit. Gripping members are provided along the V-shaped groove. The gripping members include ribs which mesh with a thread on the outer surface of the conduit to provide a secure connection between the cable puller and the conduit.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Textron Innovations Inc.Inventor: Jeffrey J. Plummer
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Patent number: 7216849Abstract: A winch (1), a vehicle including the same and a method of operating associated thereto. The winch (1) is used with a strap (15) for fastening a load onto a transportation vehicle, and comprises a tightening assembly (3) and a gear assembly (5). The tightening assembly (3) comprises a support structure having first and second support flanges (7, 9) and a cross member (11) extending between the flanges (7, 9). The cross member (11) is devised for mounting onto a corresponding side track of the vehicle. The tightening assembly (3) also comprises a tightening reel (13) for receiving a portion of the strap (15) to be tightened about said reel (13), the tightening reel (13) being pivotally mounted onto the first and second support flanges (7,9). The gear assembly (5) is operatively connected to the tightening assembly (3), and comprises a gear (17), a worm (19), and a casing (21). The gear (17) is securely mounted about the tightening reel (13) so as to rotate with said reel (13).Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Groupe 2T2 Inc.Inventor: Raynald Tremblay
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Patent number: 7216850Abstract: A device for changing an electric wire and method for distributing power without cutting off power supply has developed for replacing the live electric line on the electric poles, relocating the electric poles and alteration of the power distribution route. Replacement operation of the live electric wire is sequentially performed by connecting new wire and separating old wire by the wire changing device mounted on each electric pole without using bypass cable. The wire changing device comprises a cross-arm fastening unit, wire replacing unit and axial-rotating unit having a central arm fixture, axial shaft, arm coupling and position locking unit. The wire changing method comprises the steps of: mounting the wire changing device on each electric pole, replacing new and old wires without cutting off power supply, arranging the wire space, installing and tightening the new wire on each LP insulator of the electric pole, and removing the separated wire.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Daewon Electric Co. Ltd.Inventor: Sae-Won Kwon
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Patent number: 7216851Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a method and apparatus for providing a trailer jack mount. The subject invention also pertains to a method and apparatus for providing a trailer jack mount for use with towable trailers. The subject invention is advantageous for use with trailers, such as utility trailers, which are frequently moved between various locations. The subject apparatus can also enable the mounting of a trailer jack to a trailer such that the trailer jack can quickly transition up or down relative to the trailer. In a specific embodiment, the subject invention includes a first piece mountable to a trailer and a second piece to which a trailer jack can be secured. In this embodiment, the subject apparatus also includes means for securely attaching the second piece to the first piece and allowing the second piece to pivot relative to the first piece. Advantageously, the subject invention can either be retrofitted to an existing trailer with jack, or installed at original manufacture.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2001Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Paul Green
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Patent number: 7216852Abstract: A support bracket is adapted to secure wire fence elements to posts having T-shaped cross-sections with a leg and two cross-arms. The bracket includes a first slot adapted and constructed to receive a cross-arm of a fence post, and a second slot adapted and constructed to receive a cross-arm of the fence post, the second slot being generally aligned with the first slot. A third slot is adapted and constructed to receive a leg of the fence post, and is generally perpendicular to the first and second slots. The bracket can be mounted to the post in a first position in which the leg is received in the third slot, and a second position in which the leg extends opposite the third slot.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 2001Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: James A. Gravelle
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Patent number: 7216853Abstract: A solid barrier, sound partition and privacy fence system including a plurality of interconnected fence panels whose ends are adapted to fit to pre-existing fence posts. The ends of the fence panels include attachment structure for releasably securing adjacent fence panels to one another around an existing fence post. The privacy fence system provides for installing a privacy fence that reuses existing cement anchored fence posts. The attachment structure may comprise either an interlocking fastening device or a threaded fastening device. The privacy fence may also include an optional fence post cap that is attached to the top portion of the existing poles. Each fence panel is constructed of a lightweight, one piece, molded material.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Michael D. Wall
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Patent number: 7216854Abstract: A novel fence module is provided for use in a burrowing-animal discouraging modular fence, the module comprising a plurality of generally parallel elongate members each having an upper end and a tapered lower end, upper and lower crossbars connecting the plurality of elongate members in a row with a pair of end members and a plurality of intermediate members, wherein the elongate members have a spacing of between about 1 inch and about 2½ inches, a connector extending outwardly beyond at least one of the pair of end members for closely connecting the module to another module, wherein the tapered lower ends of the elongate members extend at least about 3 inches below the lower crossbar for insertion into ground, and wherein the elongate members extend at least about 16 inches above the lower crossbar.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Thomas R. Bryan
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Patent number: 7216855Abstract: A fence rail mounting clip for connecting a hollow fence rail to a vertical post. The mounting clip includes a base that is selectively interlockable with a bracket. The bracket has a front surface with a peripheral wall extending normal to and outwardly therefrom to define a fence rail receptacle for receiving an end of the rail therein. A rail support extends normal to and outwardly from the front surface of the bracket from a position within the rail receptacle. The rail support is separated from the peripheral wall by a gap. The rail support terminates in an outermost edge which lies further from the front surface of the bracket than does the outermost edge of the peripheral wall. When the rail is received in the rail receptacle, the walls of the rail are received within the gap between the rail support and peripheral wall and are wedged therebetween, and the rail support extends into the bore of the hollow rail.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Robert E. Platt
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Patent number: 7216856Abstract: The accelerator apparatus prevents air from remaining within a pump chamber and discharged fuel vapor from causing a pumping effect so as to a destabilize engine operation and increase of an exhaust gas content of harmful material, in an accelerator apparatus in which an accelerated fuel passage draws and discharges fuel to the pump chamber of an accelerator pump, which is connected to a main fuel passage. The pump chamber of the accelerator pump is mechanically coupled with a throttle valve and is connected to a fixed fuel chamber storing a fuel delivered to an intake passage at a fixed pressure by the accelerated fuel passage. Air remaining within the pump chamber and a fuel vapor generated within the pump chamber are discharged to the fixed fuel chamber, and fuel extruded from the pump chamber due to a pumping effect of the remaining air and the fuel vapor enters into the fixed fuel chamber, thereby preventing the alteration of a rate of the fuel flowing through a main fuel passage.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: ZAMA Japan Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshiharu Iwasa, Mamoru Toda
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Patent number: 7216857Abstract: A hydraulic antivibration device is provided that is capable of suppressing generation of strange sounds while ensuring a low dynamic spring characteristic upon inputting of relatively small amplitude vibration and a high damping characteristic upon inputting of relatively large amplitude vibration. To that end, upon inputting of relatively large amplitude vibration, displacement-regulating ribs of one of sandwiching members serve to regulate displacement of an elastic partition membrane pinched by the sandwiching members thus obtaining a high damping characteristic. The displacement-regulating ribs consist of three pieces extending radially and rectilinearly, so that the area of openings of the sandwiching members is made wide enough to ensure more a low dynamic spring characteristic. Displacement-regulating protrusions of the elastic partition membrane are disposed to correspond to the displacement-regulating ribs thereby ensuring to suppress the generation of strange sounds.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Toyo Tire & Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kentaro Yamamoto
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Patent number: 7216858Abstract: A vibration damping device, including: first and second mounting members spaced apart from one another; an elastic body interposed between and connecting the two mounting members; a diaphragm cooperating with the elastic body to define therebetween a fluid chamber; and a partition structure including a partition member and a flexible movable plate disposed in a central opening of the partition member so as to divide the fluid chamber into primary and auxiliary fluid chambers communicating through an orifice passage, wherein the movable plate has a primary-fluid-chamber-side recess which is formed in one of opposite surfaces thereof on the side of the primary fluid chamber and an auxiliary-fluid-chamber-side groove in the other surface located on the side of the auxiliary fluid chamber so as to be positioned radially outwardly of the recess and which continuously or discontinuously extends in the circumferential direction.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Tokai Rubber Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Tetsuji Andou, Masahiko Nagasawa
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Patent number: 7216859Abstract: A damping arrangement is proposed with at least two holding devices (10, 11) that are connected to one another via at least one damping element (12) in the form of a plane element made of a wire mesh or wire fabric, said holding devices (10, 11) being secured to at least two different regions of the damping element (12), and said damping element (12) having at least two curvatures in opposite directions between the holding devices (10, 11). A damping arrangement of this type may be produced cost-effectively in an automated process in such a way that the damping element is constructed to have substantially the same elastic stiffnesses in three mutuallyorthogonal directions.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2003Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Sebert Schwingungstechnik GmbHInventor: Karl Sebert
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Patent number: 7216860Abstract: A mount support of a force connection strut is provided manufactured from plastic/metal composite materials for a chassis of a motor vehicle. The force connection strut has an elongated basic body and a sleeve (H) passing through the basic body. The sleeve (H) has a flange (F) on at least one side and is connected to the basic body by extrusion coating with plastic at least at one of its ends.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2002Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: ZF Lemförder Metallwaren AGInventors: Frank Budde, Stefan Schönhoff, Jochen Kruse
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Patent number: 7216861Abstract: A cylindrical sleeve is inserted between the body of a competition shock absorber and its adjustable compression spring to protect the body from undue wear created by rubbing of the spring on the threads formed on the external surface of the shock. Different color sleeves can be used on shocks having different performance characteristics to facilitate change out to accommodate varying track conditions.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Big Shot Performance, LLCInventor: George E. LaBarbera
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Patent number: 7216862Abstract: A tool for securing a clamp, such as a P clamp, to a mounting location, comprising: a first jaw; a second jaw; and an actuator to move the first jaw relative to the second jaw. The first jaw includes a retainer for a fastener. The method of attaching the clamp to the mounting location includes the steps of: placing a first fastener in the retainer; locating the clamp between the jaws; manipulating the actuator to tighten the clamp; and securing a second fastener to the first fastener.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventor: Leonard Michael Walsh
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Patent number: 7216863Abstract: A sheet processing apparatus, which is configured in a simple construction and at low cost, includes a first sheet stacking portion for temporarily stacking a sheet discharged thereon, an alignment member for aligning the sheet discharged on the first sheet stacking portion, a sheet processing member for performing a predetermined process on the sheet stacked on the first sheet stacking portion, and a second sheet stacking portion located substantially vertically below the first sheet stacking portion. The alignment member acts to cause the aligned sheet to drop to the second sheet stacking portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2003Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takashi Kuwata, Yasuyoshi Hayakawa, Kaoru Sato
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Patent number: 7216864Abstract: A paper supply cassette includes a separately formed case, accommodating unit cover, and handle part. A separating mechanism for separating and conveying paper stacked in the case one sheet at a time is supported in a support unit provided on the front side surface of the case. Generally, high precision is required when mounting the separating mechanism into the paper supply cassette, and the separating mechanism must be demonstrated to have sufficient separating performance prior to shipping the product. When modifications are made to the design of the laser printer, it is possible to reuse the case while replacing the handle part with a new part, thereby eliminating the time and effort required to redesign the separating mechanism and to demonstrate its separating performance.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2003Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hideo Yoshihara
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Patent number: 7216865Abstract: A sheet conveying device of the present invention includes a conveying member for conveying a sheet, a switching mechanism for switching the direction of conveyance of the sheet being conveyed by the sheet conveying member, and a shifting mechanism for shifting the sheet passed through the switching mechanism and nipped by the conveying member in a direction perpendicular to the direction of conveyance. The switching mechanism and shifting mechanism share a single drive source.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.Inventors: Masahiro Tamura, Nobuyoshi Suzuki
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Patent number: 7216866Abstract: A sheet transport path switching mechanism includes a movable guide to be moved rotatably about a support shaft parallel to the width direction of a transport path so as to selectively take either a main posture where the movable guide directs a sheet to the downstream side of a main transport path relative to a branch point, and a branch posture where the movable guide directs a sheet to a branch transport path. An engagement hook is provided in an apparatus body and supports a central region in the longitudinal direction of the movable guide to prevent the movable guide from being deformed due to interference with a sheet fed toward the branch transport path. The mechanism prevents deformation of the movable guide while facilitating reduction in material and production costs and adequately meeting requirements of waste treatment.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Kyocera Mita CorporationInventor: Susumu Taniguchi
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Patent number: 7216867Abstract: The specification discloses a multi-wheel game-of-chance having at least two groups of spinning wheels, wherein each group includes at least two concentric spinning wheels having a viewable surface face thereon. A plurality of indicia are positioned on the peripherals of the viewable surface face of each wheel such that all indicia on each wheel is viewable to the user. Bet areas are positioned at various locations around at least a portion of each group of wheels; along a line joining the center of any two groups of wheels; and/or a junction between various radially positioned lines extending from the center of two or more groups of wheels. Each bet area represents a possible payline with various pay ratios depending on the probability of various predetermined combinations.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Sierra Design GroupInventors: Robert A. Luciano, Lawrence W. Luciano, Kurt W. Spencer
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Patent number: 7216868Abstract: A method of playing a word forming game for two to four players utilizing a game board marked off in a grid pattern. There are a plurality of tiles, equally distributed between the players, having various letters imprinted thereon. Such game board having the word CHANGIT reading left to right disposed on tiles in a center of the game board to begin the game. The goal of the game being to get rid of a persons tiles before the other players get rid of theirs by changing words and forming new words.Type: GrantFiled: February 3, 2006Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventors: John C. Groz, Robert Groz
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Patent number: 7216869Abstract: A wagering game between a dealer and one or more players involving one or more decks of cards, a plurality of betting boards and player markers. Each betting board has four betting places, each place corresponding to one of four card suits, said betting places being arranged near the bottom of the betting board. A ladder presenting progressively increasing designated odds payoff is represented above the betting places. Each player makes a bet by selecting a betting place with a marker. A dealer deals one card. If the betting place matches the suit of the card dealt, the player is a winner. The winner may accept the designated odds payoff or may continue play during the next iteration at a higher designated odds payoff. If the player's betting place does not match the suit of the card dealt, the player loses and the dealer is the winner. Players may make side bets on the value of the card dealt as agreed to between player and dealer.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventors: L. Scott Gallagher, Christina L. Gallagher
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Patent number: 7216870Abstract: A resource point game mechanic includes a plurality of game components, at least some of which have a resource point value. Each game component is in a state such as an “in play” state or an “out of play” state. Resource points according to the resource point value are accumulatable by a player transitioning one of the game components from the “out of play” state to the “in play” state. Preferably, the resource points are spendable on benefits/chances/penalties. An alternative preferred embodiment of the present invention is a method for using a game mechanic in which each player obtains a plurality of game components having a resource point value, then each player, in turn, transitions at least one of the game components from an “out of play” state to an “in play” state, and then each player accumulates resource points according to the resource point value by the step of transitioning.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Shields Design Studio, LLCInventors: Eric Schreiner Bess, Timothy Patrick Shields
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Patent number: 7216871Abstract: A non-contacting seal for sealing in high temperature applications includes at least one segment having an inner pad with a hydrodynamic/hydrostatic lift-off geometry enabling the seal to run in a non-contact mode, and at least one finger spring supported on the pad that aids in making the seal radially compliant while also being axially stiff, compared to the radial direction. In one embodiment, multiple segments are supported on a support member spaced from the pad to form a gap (g) therebetween. The pad preferably includes a wear resistant layer on its inner diameter (ID) which prevents excessive wear of the pad. In one embodiment, the hydrodynamic/hydrostatic lift-off geometry is in the form of a groove formed on the inner pad. A cover may also be provided between inner pads at the ID and the support ring at the outer diameter OD in order to prevent leakage through the gap.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Advanced Components & Materials, Inc.Inventor: Amitava Datta
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Patent number: 7216872Abstract: The invention relates to a seal for use with a pipe and flange assembly. The seal is intended to prevent leakage during axial movement of the pipe relative to a flange. The invention comprises a central cylindrical elastomeric member located between two circular elastomeric end rings.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Oceaneering International, Inc.Inventors: Michael N. A. Shaw, Bruce A. Wallace
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Patent number: 7216873Abstract: A drill chuck has a chuck body centered on and axis, and a tightening element surrounding the body and rotatable thereon about the axis. The tightening element has a front sleeve formed with jaw-holding guides and a rear sleeve releasably coupled with the front sleeve. A retaining ring bears axially forward on the sleeve. Releasable locking formations on the ring and body are relatively displaceable between a retaining position preventing axial rearward shifting of the ring and sleeve on the body and a freeing position permitting such shifting. A pusher rotationally coupled to the jaws bears axially forward on the jaws. Interengaging screwthreads on the pusher and chuck body are provided so that relative rotation of the sleeve together with the jaws and pusher relative to the chuck body axially displaces the jaws between their positions.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Rohm GmbHInventor: Hans-Dieter Mack
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Patent number: 7216874Abstract: An inline skate with changeable length has an inner boot, an adjusting device, an outer boot and a wheel assembly. The adjusting device is attached to the inner boot and comprises a block and a key. The block has a longitudinal adjustment slot and a transverse slot communicating with the longitudinal adjustment slot. The key is mounted through the transverse slot and selectively extends into the longitudinal adjustment slot. The outer boot has an outer toe and an outer heel. The outer toe has a rear edge and a tongue formed on and protruding from the rear edge, mounted slidably in the longitudinal adjustment slot and having multiple adjustment slots. The adjustment slots selectively align with the transverse slot in the block and are engaged by the key. A wheel assembly is mounted under the outer heel. Hence, adjusting the length of the inline skate is easy and convenient.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Henkel Lin
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Patent number: 7216875Abstract: In a shopping cart, which is nestable with similar carts, a transverse extending member bridges two longitudinally extending members, each mounting a cam-engaging member. Two cams are mounted to the transversely extending members. When engaged by the cam-engaging members of a following cart being nested into the shopping cart, the cams lift a back end of the shopping cart, so as to lift rear casters of the shopping cart.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Unarco Industries, Inc.Inventor: Taft O'Quin
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Patent number: 7216876Abstract: A device for generating rotational energy for hydraulic fluids, which includes at least one hydraulic cylinder, the at least one hydraulic cylinder comprising at least two chambers, wherein each of the at least two chambers are in fluid communication with the other. The hydraulic fluid is displaced from the hydraulic cylinder to an accumulator and a valve, which controls the release of the hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic motor. The hydraulic motor receives the hydraulic fluid from the accumulator and valve creating torque to drive a wheel or other device.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventors: Jeffrey E. Cole, Nicolas Orand, Srihari Vijayakumar
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Patent number: 7216877Abstract: A brake system operable to inhibit movement of a non-powered transportable cart. The cart has a platform with opposite front and rear ends, at least one pivotal caster wheel adjacent and supporting one of the front or rear ends, and a pair of fixed wheels. The brake system has a brake arm with a brake bar extending laterally therefrom. The brake arm is pivotal between a disengaged position and an engaged position. When in the disengaged position, a gap is defined between the brake bar and the fixed wheels to allow the fixed wheels to rotate freely. When in the engaged position, the brake bar engages the fixed wheels to prevent them from rotating. A brake latch is carried by the platform and has a catch sized to receive the brake arm to releasably maintain the brake arm in its engaged position.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Magline, Inc.Inventors: Jeffry R. Frahm, Matthew A. Royalty
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Patent number: 7216878Abstract: A children's ride-on vehicle and a method of connecting a steering column to the vehicle. The vehicle includes a body and a plurality of wheels. The vehicle also includes a steering assembly configured to steer at least one steerable wheel. The steering assembly includes at least a steering mechanism, a steering column, and a linkage mechanism. The steering mechanism receives steering inputs from a child steering the vehicle. The steering column is coupled to the steering mechanism and includes a proximal portion and a shoulder extending transversely from the proximal portion. The linkage mechanism couples the steering column to the steerable wheel. The linkage mechanism includes a receiver structure configured to receive the steering column. The retainer mechanism may be configured to engage the shoulder so that movement of the steering column generally opposing the direction is restricted. Methods of connecting the steering column to the vehicle also are disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2003Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventor: Daniel J. Damon
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Patent number: 7216879Abstract: A vehicle includes front and rear suspension systems. The vehicle includes front left and right strut assemblies respectively including front left and right knuckles. Rear left and right strut assemblies respectively include rear left and right knuckles. The knuckles are common with one another with each knuckle having a common lower attachment boss. The front left and right knuckles respectively receive front left and right connection members at the lower attachment boss. The lower attachment boss is respectively interconnected to the front left and right suspension components. The rear left and right knuckles respectively receive rear left and right connection members at the lower attachment boss respectively interconnected to rear left and right suspension components. The overall suspension for the vehicle is designed by determining the left knuckle position parameters such as suspension member, brake, and wheel assembly attachment points. Similarly, the right knuckle position parameters are determined.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Arvin Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Simon Dean
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Patent number: 7216880Abstract: A universal handle comprising a handle body having a U-shaped gripping zone (51), open at its center (52), having two arms (53) connected by a bar (54) offering, all three, a support back for the palm of the hand or the fingers of the user. The handle comprises in addition a control member: which is arranged on the inside of the opening (52) of the gripping zone (51) of the body of the handle and open at its center in such a fashion as to comprise a U-shaped gripping zone corresponding to the gripping zone (51) of the handle and having two arms connected by a bar, all three offering a support zone for the fingers of the user's hand; and that it is adapted for exercising a force on an element to be controlled when the handle (49) is grasped by the user's hand at one or another of the three gripping zones formed by the two arms (53) and the bar (54) of the body of the handle associated with the control element.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: LifeStand International SAInventor: Francois Xavier Laffin
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Patent number: 7216881Abstract: A cable guide routing a control cable that extends between an actuator and a suspension system having a crown connecting two parallel tubular bodies to a steerer tube. The cable guide includes a housing formed on the crown and having a bore extending therethrough for receiving the control cable. The suspension system includes a spool located on an end of one of the tubular bodies for winding and unwinding the control cable. The housing is configured on the suspension system such that a portion of the control cable extending between the housing and the spool lies substantially in a plane of the spool. So configured, friction is minimized.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: SRAM CorporationInventor: Kevin Wesling
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Patent number: 7216882Abstract: A system and method for mounting a shock absorber to a bicycle frame. The system preferably includes at least one spacer having a first spacer member and a second spacer member. Each of the first and second spacer members include a curved contact surface configured to contact the respective surface of the other spacer member. A first one of the spacer members is located relative to the bicycle frame and the second one of the space members is located relative to the shock absorber. The shock absorber and the second one of the spacer members may be rotated relative to the first spacer member and the bicycle frame to achieve a desired alignment between the shock absorber and the bicycle frame to compensate for misalignment between the mounting structures on the bicycle frame for a respective first and second ends of the shock absorber.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc.Inventor: Jason L. Chamberlain
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Patent number: 7216883Abstract: A bicycle frame set comprising a main frame and a rear wheel suspension system. The rear wheel suspension system comprises a first link member with an upper end pivotally connected to a seat tube of the main frame at a link pivot point located rearward of an axis extending between a bottom bracket of the main frame and an intersection of the seat tube and a top tube of the main frame. The first link member has a displaceable lower end pivotable about the link pivot point. The swing-arm is pivotally interconnected with the main frame proximate the bottom bracket and has a rearward end adapted to engage a rear wheel axle. The swing-arm is pivotally connected with the first link member at a point thereon intermediate the upper and lower ends. A shock absorber is affixed between the main frame and the lower end of the first link member.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Rocky Mountain Bicycles-a division of Procycle Group Inc.Inventor: D'Arcy O'Connor
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Patent number: 7216884Abstract: The aluminum trailer frame and trailer includes aluminum side rails with bowed forward sections which converge on an aluminum trailer tongue beam. A plurality of aluminum cross members are laterally mounted to opposing side rails. Each cross member has a generally C-shaped cross section with an embedded, generally C-shaped bolt head channel near the mid-section of the C-shaped cross member. The channel has opposing tabs which trap a bolt head and the channel extends the length of the cross members. Two bunk rail beams or other accessory supports or beam supports are mounted on the cross members via bolts having bolt heads that are slidably disposed in the bolt head channels. Accessories are movably mounted on the cross members by bolts in bolt head channels.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Assignee: Eastern Metal Supply, Inc.Inventor: Gregory L. Weekes
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Patent number: 7216885Abstract: A trailer mounted and adjustable mirror assembly for attachment to a trailer or hitch being towed by a towing vehicle. The assembly, when secured, helps facilitate securement of the trailer to the towing vehicle while the driver/operator remains in the towing vehicle. The assembly comprises a removable clamp mounting a pair of adjustable, telescopic tubular members on which is mounted a pivotal mirror mechanism pivotal throughout 360° and countless angles relative to the plane of the pivotal mirror mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2004Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Brian Stopka