Patents Issued in June 12, 2007
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Patent number: 7228791Abstract: A baking oven for preparing dough pieces comprises a supply section with an inlet for the supply of dough pieces; a baking chamber and a discharge section with an outlet for the discharge of baked dough pieces. A recirculating-air arrangement comprises a source producing a flow of recirculating air, a recirculating-air heating device and a recirculating-air guiding conduit which is sectionally formed by the baking chamber. A conveyor assembly delivers dough pieces from the inlet to the outlet. To this end, the conveyor assembly comprises a plurality of continuous conveyor belts which pass along deflection pulleys and are disposed one in relation to the other in the baking chamber for transfer by gravity of the dough pieces from one to another of two adjacent continuous conveyor belts. The result is a baking oven in which, during baking, the dough pieces can be moved and spread as uniformly as possible.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Werner & Pfleiderer Lebensmitteltechnik GmbHInventors: Christian Habermann, Alexander Meier, Dieter Knost
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Patent number: 7228792Abstract: A cooker has a pan of circular configuration with an open upper end receiving a circular lid and a bottom having apertures therein. A disk shaped drip tray disposed below the pan and having upstanding lugs thereon is selectively moved between raised and lowered positions using opposite latching mechanisms which adjustably couple the drip tray to the pan. In the raised position, the drip tray engages the bottom of the pan and the lugs on the drip tray extend into and close the apertures in the pan. In the lowered position, the lugs are removed from the apertures, permitting greases, fats and similar substances to drain through the apertures and onto the drip tray. The latching mechanisms permit separation of the drip tray from the pan for separate cleansing thereof such as by placing in a dishwasher.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Original Ideas, Inc.Inventors: Alan D. Crawford, Robert A. DeMars, Spencer L. Mackay, John R. Petersen
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Patent number: 7228793Abstract: A carbonation system is disclosed that effectively controls the treatment of fruits and vegetables with CO2 gas, providing enhanced flavor to fruits and vegetables. One embodiment of the invention uses a microprocessor to preferably monitor and control the pressure, temperature and gas flow within a sealable enclosure to effectively control the carbonation of fruits and vegetables. Another embodiment consists of a combination carbonation system and cooler that effectively controls the carbonation of fruits and vegetables by including pressure relief devices and an insulation cover. The insulation cover has apertures that provide for the distribution of CO2. A third embodiment is disclosed that also consists of a combination carbonation system and cooler. This third embodiment controls carbonation by including, among other features, feedback mechanisms and a pressure relief device. A method of using the first embodiment is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2002Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignees: Fizzy Fruit, LLC, Oregon State UniversityInventors: Qingyue Ling, Galen D. Kaufman, John Henry Wells, Bryce L. Hesterman
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Patent number: 7228794Abstract: A housing in a kitchen device, in particular, a household fruit press, includes an electric motor and a circuit board, both of which can be simply mounted. The motor and board are to be simply assembled in the housing by configuring the mounting as a hollow cylinder with elastically spring-like wall segments.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: BSH Bosch und Siemens Hausgeraete GmbHInventors: Marko Areh, Peter Brezovnik, Henrik Pavlovic, Michael Steffl, Igor Zibret
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Patent number: 7228795Abstract: An existing tying machine (20) is modified by the addition of components to produce a self contained laundry tie-out station (10). The components for the modification include a linear slide support yoke frame (22), attached on top of the tying machine's component mounting platform (24) with a pneumatic linear slide unit (34) mounted on top. A hanger slide rod assembly (40) is attached to the mounting face of the linear slide unit for retaining a selected group of hangers (36) containing laundered clothing (36?). Conveyer feed lines are aligned with distal ends of the recessed hanger slide rod (42) when in an at rest position. A pneumatic system operates the slide unit and controls are integrated into the tying machines existing electrical system. The invention draws the group of hangers into the tying machine where it bunches the hangers together and electromechanically binds the group with a twist tie.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventors: Luis C. Contreras, Jack L. Hoffa
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Patent number: 7228796Abstract: Embodiments of subcombination and the fruit extraction device of the present invention provide for fruit juice extraction where synchronized and concentric elements press a fruit, such as an orange, without crushing the peel, by this avoiding the dispersion of acids from the peel, favoring the retention of juice having lower acid levels. Embodiments of the subcombination and the fruit extraction device of which it is a portion shear the peel in multiple slivers, at the same time compressing the fruit. In an exemplary embodiment, a subcombination comprises a fixed and a mobile peeler, each having radially extending blades that form a space within which a fruit may be positioned for juice extraction, and a perforating filtering tube within the fixed peeler, and a piston adapted to pass through the lumen of the perforating filtering tube to cyclically clean it of the residues of a compressed fruit prior to extraction of the next fruit.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Carlos Mendes Neto
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Patent number: 7228797Abstract: A cordless blind includes a headrail, a bottom rail suspended from the headrail by a first cord and a second cord, a wall covering disposed between the headrail and the bottom rail, and a drive actuator. The drive actuator includes a spring motor, a spool coupled to the spring motor, a first tensioning mechanism, and a second tensioning mechanism. The first and second tensioning mechanisms are configured to impact a resistant force on movement of the first and second cords. The drive actuator may include a spool, a spring motor, a biasing element configured to provide a force biased against movement of the bottom rail, and a bias relief mechanism that is configured to provide for selective application and relief of the biasing force by the biasing element.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2000Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Sundberg-Ferar, Inc.Inventors: Michael D. Hillman, Evan T. Ward, Paul B. Specht
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Patent number: 7228798Abstract: A web-fed printing machine is provided. The printing machine includes a plurality of printing units. A first work station precedes the printing units. A second work station follows the printing units. At least one lifting device is assigned to the printing units for transporting printing unit modules. The lifting device is movably mounted on a top side of the printing units.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: MAN Roland Druckmaschinen AGInventors: Josef Göttling, Godber Petersen, Thomas Hartmann
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Patent number: 7228799Abstract: A moving member fixing apparatus includes a stationary gear, rotary gear, press member, and first and second flat inclined surfaces. The rotary gear is movably provided to the stationary gear. The press member presses the rotary gear to fix the rotary gear to the stationary gear, and cancels pressing the rotary gear so that the rotary gear is released from the stationary gear. The first flat inclined surface is formed to be associated with the stationary gear.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Komori CorporationInventors: Shigeru Maruyama, Takanobu Aoki
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Patent number: 7228800Abstract: A doctor beam (1) is provided for a doctor blade for application in a printing unit. The doctor beam comprises a U-shaped channel. At least the U-shaped channel (3), which is formed in a metal beam, is provided with a fibre coating (6) preferably made of carbon fibres. Hereby is achieved resistance against corrosive attack on the metal by cleaning agents and/or printing inks.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2001Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Tresu Anlæg A/SInventor: Henrik Leimand
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Patent number: 7228801Abstract: A ballistic tracer platform for use with a shotgun shell to provide an aiming and training aid for shotgun shooting sports, which also can be used for military and police applications. The ballistic tracer platform carries a tracer element, which provides the shooter with a consistent reference to make corrections to his or her aiming point and shooting techniques. The ballistic tracer platform can be used in ordinary shotgun shells. The ballistic tracer platform consists of a cylindrical structure with a coaxial cylindrical cavity in which the tracer element is disposed. The tracer element can be composed of incendiary or non-incendiary materials. The ballistic tracer platform can be modified to improve its ballistic shape, such as modifying the shape of its nose. Mass can be added to cavities formed in the ballistic tracer platform in order to adjust the weight of the device. Grooves, fins, or orifices can be formed in surface of the device to create additional spin.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2003Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventors: James Alfred Dunnam, Mauricio F. Quintana
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Patent number: 7228802Abstract: A projectile comprising a shaft hollowed at one end with a male thread at the outer, or head, end. A plurality of fins are secured around the circumference adjacent the first shaft end or base, the fins being slightly canted to cause the projectile to spin as it leaves the launcher. A soft foam head is attached to the threaded end of the shaft. In a first embodiment, a hollow tip is removably attached to the head; in an alternate embodiment, the removable tip is made of a solid foam material.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Vincent Montefusco
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Patent number: 7228803Abstract: The flanged type guide wheel (1) or (2) has a peripheral edge (27) which has within its profile a recess (30), for example, a notch, the shape and position of which maintain the surface cover (28) of the guide wheel at a distance from the travel surface (8) or (9) that exists opposite it on the guide rail (4) when there is lateral force on the guide wheel. This invention has applications for guide assemblies for road vehicles used on guide rails.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Lohr IndustrieInventors: Jean-Luc Andre, Jean-Louis Maupu, Didier Ganter
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Patent number: 7228804Abstract: A locking arrangement for a door system of a transit vehicle includes a combination of a lock mechanism and an electromagnetic brake. The lock mechanism enables positive locking of at least one door but does not require substantial contact between moving and stationary lock elements. The lock mechanism is connected with the manual release means for door opening during an emergency. The electromagnetic brake maintains door seal compression in the closed and locked condition which improves sealing capabilities and provides for reliable lock mechanism operation. Such combination provides locking redundancy and meets various requirements regarding annunciation and manual release operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: WABTEC Holding Corp.Inventors: Andre Stojc, Simon Evans
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Patent number: 7228805Abstract: A composite box structure mounted on and attached to a railway car underframe to form a temperature controlled railway car. The composite box structure defined in part by an exterior metal surface, interior side stakes and at least one layer of fiber reinforced material attached to the side stakes. Insulating material may be disposed between the side stakes, the exterior metal surface and the at least one fiber reinforced layer of fiber reinforced material. The insulating materials provide resistance to heat transfer between the interior and the exterior of the composite box structure. A primary floor assembly and a secondary floor assembly may be mounted on the railway car underframe.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Trinity Industries, Inc.Inventors: Albert A. Beers, Stephen W. Smith, Christopher Crisafulli, Shaun Richmond, Ricky A. Cribbs
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Patent number: 7228806Abstract: A biomass gasification system for efficiently extracting heat energy from biomass material. The biomass gasification system includes a primary combustion chamber, a rotating grate within the primary combustion chamber for supporting the biomass during gasification, a feeder unit in communication with the primary combustion chamber for delivering biomass, a secondary combustion chamber fluidly connected to the primary combustion chamber, an oxygen mixer positioned between the primary combustion chamber and the secondary combustion chamber, a heat exchanger and an exhaust stack.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2003Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Vidir Machine, Inc.Inventors: Raymond Dueck, Maciej G. Wierzbowski
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Patent number: 7228807Abstract: A seed planter of the type having a metering unit with a seed chute that drops seeds into a seed tube for planting as manufactured by John Deere is provided with a deflector in the metering unit. The deflector directs the path of the seeds as they fall away from the seed disk so as to free fall along a vertical centerline between the leading and trailing walls of the seed tube and between the opposing sides thereof.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Dale VenHuizen
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Patent number: 7228808Abstract: A portable sewing machine powered by a battery can be used for carpet binding and other tasks. A pod having a motor and a battery are releasably attached to the side of the sewing machine and can be used on several different sewing machines such that only one pod need be purchased. The battery can be plugged into a plug on the pod to use a different battery while the first battery is being recharged. The battery-powered sewing machine can be on wheels for running on the floor for carpet binding, or it can be used in a stationary position. The portable sewing machine eliminates cords, which limit its use in carpet binding applications. The battery-powered sewing machine can operate in environments where no electricity is available such as in buildings under construction or sailboats needing sail repairs.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: National Carpet Equipment, Inc.Inventor: Martin L. Anderson
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Patent number: 7228809Abstract: A method of making a fabric having a finished edge includes providing a fabric having a plurality of fibers with free ends of the fibers at an edge of the fabric, disposing a curable polymer such as silicone over the edge of the fabric so that the curable polymer engages the free ends of the fibers at the edge of the fabric, and, after the disposing step, curing the polymer for finishing the edge of the fabric. The polymer binds the free ends of the fibers to prevent fraying of the fabric. The fabric is cut into a pattern piece for a garment before the step of disposing the curable polymer on the edge of the fabric.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Cupid Foundations, Inc.Inventors: Anthony Angelino, David Welsch, Ronald Boser
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Patent number: 7228810Abstract: A shallow draft boat has a hull that protects a propulsion propeller within a tunnel that passes only partially through the hull from stern to bow. The hull has a mechanism, such as a flap for selectively permitting or blocking water flow access to the tunnel from under the boat. The boat also has a lift mechanism preferably in the shape or adjustable parallelogram for selectively positioning a propeller of a propulsion unit substantially directly behind the tunnel or below the tunnel. The boat can operate in two modes. In one, water access to the tunnel is permitted and the propeller is positioned above the bottom of the hull and behind the tunnel. In the other, water access to the tunnel is blocked and the propeller is positioned below the bottom of the hull. This construction permits selective operation in a shallow draft mode, in a normal draft mode or in between.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Ralph Brown
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Patent number: 7228811Abstract: An engine compartment cover for watercraft incorporates first and second pivots The cover can be rotated from an adjacent engine compartment in a first direction to a second location to provide a convenient access to the engine from the stern of the watercraft. Alternately, a portion of the cover can be rotated in the opposite direction on the second pivot to provide access to the engine compartment from the deck of the craft.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Maurell Products, Inc.Inventors: Kevin L. Huff, Wayne W. Cortner
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Patent number: 7228812Abstract: A method for generation of gasses contained in a salt solution in accomplished by disposing automated, floating wave power collection vessels in waters distant from shore, the vessels navigating within one or more predetermined geographic zones, having suitable wave conditions for such operation. The wave power devices generating electricity and the gasses are extracted from the salt solution by electrolysis. Automated storage vessels are used as shuttles to deliver the gasses to shore facilities.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Arthur Morse
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Patent number: 7228813Abstract: A traffic cone system includes a base, a sleeve, and a retainer. The retainer substantially secures the sleeve relative to the base. A member such as a spring may be inserted into the sleeve make the sleeve stand upright. The member may act in concert with the retainer to secure the sleeve relative to the base. The system may be used to refurbish damaged traffic cones or may otherwise be retrofitted to existing traffic cone components. The system may alternatively be used to build new cones.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventors: Angelo Lamar Flamingo, James Gregory Whitfield, II, Todd Alan Thiel
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Patent number: 7228814Abstract: A flag storage and support apparatus includes a housing that has a bottom wall, a top wall, a back wall, a first side wall and a second side wall. A door is hingedly coupled to an edge of the first side wall and is positionable in an open position or a closed position with respect to a front side of the housing. A pole has a bottom end and a top end. The bottom end is pivotally coupled to the bottom wall so that the pole is selectively positionable within the housing to define a stored position or extendable outwardly of the housing to define a display position. A flag is attached to the pole and is positioned adjacent to the top end.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Brian F. Williams, Sr.
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Patent number: 7228815Abstract: A method of performing an animal related action on an animal by means of a robot arm is disclosed. The method includes carrying out measurements on the animal by means of a sensor for locating at least one animal part, generating, on the basis of the measurements, a list of data each corresponding to a possible animal part, comparing the data on the list with historical data regarding at least one animal part, assigning to each of the data on the list, on the basis of the comparison, a probability value for actual correspondence with at least one animal part, selecting as target position that possible target position that corresponds to the data on the list having the highest probability value and moving the robot arm to the target position which corresponds to the animal part found and performing there the animal related action.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2003Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Lely Enterprises AGInventors: Martinus Petrus Kortekaas, Karel van den Berg
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Patent number: 7228816Abstract: An automated feeding system for pets with special diets includes a feeder dish which is made accessible to a pet only when an ID tag on the pet is recognized as authorized by a receiver on the device and only for a certain time period. The appropriate amount of food is thereby made available at appropriate time intervals. If a plurality of tags is pre-programmed as authorized, each animal's tag can sequentially activate the feeding device to feed each animal, respectively. However, if more than one authorized tag is present in the feeding time set for one animal, the drawer closes.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventors: Robert Michael Turner, Mark David Olcott
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Patent number: 7228817Abstract: A device for feeding poultry kept in a barn, comprises at least one food supply tube (1) which is held above the floor of the barn such as to be able to be lowered or raised, with a series of branch openings, each provided with a dish device (2) hanging on the supply tube, comprising a dropping tube extending from the branch opening and a feeding dish (4) arranged below, the dropping tube with a spoked arrangement of lattice bars (5) forming the cup of the dish. The dropping tube comprises an inner cylinder (7) leading off from the branch opening and an outer cylinder (8) surrounding the inner cylinder, from which the dish hangs by means of the lattice bars, such as to be placed on the floor of the barn in the lowered state of the food supply tube. The outer cylinder runs on the inner cylinder such as to rotate, be raised or lowered and at least one stop is provided for limiting the raising and lowering stoke.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2002Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Big Dutchman International GmbHInventor: Roland Busse
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Patent number: 7228818Abstract: A litter box assembly has a two piece litter box, each piece having an open end and a support frame in which the open ends are pivotally mounted to each other and to the support frame. Elevating support legs are affixed to the support frame and depend therefrom, the legs being held in fixed rigid position by spacers and braces. The supporting legs form an assembly having an open front, a rear, and two sides, with the open front allowing insertion and withdrawal of a waste or trash container.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Mary Ann Lynch
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Patent number: 7228819Abstract: A particulate non-clumping animal litter composition is disclosed. The composition comprises non-clumping absorbent particles bound to magnetically-attractable metal particles such that substantially all particles of the animal litter composition are attracted to a magnetic surface. The animal litter composition exhibits favorable properties such as absorbency, resiliency, homogeneity, and particle size. Methods of production for non-clumping animal litter compositions are also disclosed that employ sufficient shear to bind the non-clumping absorbent particulate material to the magnetically-attractable metal particles such that the animal litter compositions exhibit favorable properties. A method and apparatus for the collection of magnetically-attractable animal litter particles are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: AMCOL International CorporationInventors: Zhen Wang, Vincent J. Losacco, Michael Ray Velder, Bala Nathan, Bart Becherer, Jerald W. Darlington, Jr.
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Patent number: 7228820Abstract: An adjustable kennel provides an enclosure for an animal that is lightweight, expandable and collapsible for storage and travel. The kennel has a semi-rigid frame that can be adjusted for size and an expandable, pliable cover allowing the kennel to be adjusted appropriately for the animal occupying it. When in use, the frame includes slidably expandable support members such that the kennel can accommodate different sized animals or can be adjusted to be used over a long period of time as an animal grows.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2006Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Sportpet Designs, Inc.Inventors: Michael S Kellogg, Adam M Kellogg
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Patent number: 7228821Abstract: A pet collar which incorporates into a collar strap a buckle with its usual length adjustability features, and a quick release incorporated into the collar strap in intimate and operative association with the buckle. Once the length of the collar strap is initially adjusted, using the buckle, to the neck size of the pet for which the collar is intended, subsequent removal and reapplication of the collar to the pet is effected by the quick release aspect of the invention without disturbing the length adjustment established by the buckle.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Radio Systems CorporationInventor: Takahide Okai
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Patent number: 7228822Abstract: An efficient high-temperature water vapor generator is used to de-contaminate soil. The vapor generator includes a combustion chamber and a surrounding structure, wherein a cavity is located therebetween. Water is routed through the cavity and into the combustion chamber, where water vapor and heat are generated in the presence of fuel, ignition and air. The generated heat pre-heats the water in the cavity, thereby creating an efficient system. The water vapor is forced into a vapor tube (which has openings for emitting the vapor), thereby heating the vapor tube to temperatures of 800° F. or greater. A soil tube having lifting paddles located therein surrounds the vapor tube. Contaminated soil enters one end of the soil tube. The soil tube is rotated, thereby moving the contaminated soil into contact with the vapor tube (decontaminating the soil). The lifting paddles move the soil toward the second end of the rotating soil tube.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2003Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Goodfield Energy CorporationInventor: Aldon R. Reinhardt
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Patent number: 7228823Abstract: An engine-driven vehicle cooling device includes an engine room for reception of an engine, a radiator provided within the engine room for cooling down a cooling water circulating through the engine, a cooling fan positioned between the engine and the radiator for blowing an internal air present in the engine room toward the radiator, a charged air cooler smaller in size than the radiator and disposed between the radiator and the cooling fan in a parallel relationship with the radiator, a shroud provided at an intake side of the cooling fan in the engine room for obstructing a stream of the internal air heading for the charged air cooler, and an external air inlet opening provided between the shroud and the cooling fan for allowing an external air present outside the engine room to be supplied to the charged air cooler as the cooling fan is caused to rotate.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Doosan Infracore Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ki Ho Lee
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Patent number: 7228824Abstract: A method for operating an internal combustion engine. The method includes: providing a functional relationship between time rate of change in engine speed, and compression ratio switching engine speed limit; determining time rate of change in engine speed; determining from the determined rate of change of engine speed and the function whether the engine speed exceeds the compression ratio switching engine speed; and commanding the engine to operate at a relatively low compression ratio if the determined time of change in engine speed exceeds the compression ratio switching engine speed limit and commanding the engine to operate at a relatively high compression ratio if the determined time of change in engine speed is less than the compression ratio switching engine speed limit.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Chris P. Glugla, David K. Trumpy, In Kwang Yoo
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Patent number: 7228825Abstract: A two-stroke engine includes an air channel for supplying substantially fuel-free combustion air and a mixture channel for supplying an air/fuel mixture. The air channel and the mixture channel connect the cylinder of the two-stroke engine to an air filter. A section of the mixture channel and a section of the air channel are guided in a common component. In order to prevent induction of mixture into the air channel, the length (a) of the mixture channel and the length (b) of the air channel are so matched to each other that the pressure wave in the air channel, which forms during operation, oscillates in phase with the pressure wave formed in the mixture channel. The length (a) of the mixture channel is matched to an optimal fuel induction via the fuel opening.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KGInventors: Florian Hoche, Niels Kunert, Horst Denner, André Prager
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Patent number: 7228826Abstract: The present disclosure provides an engine having a gas exchange valve and an actuator for the gas exchange valve, and also a method of reducing valve seating impact velocity. The actuator includes a body having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. A plunger is reciprocable in the body and has a travel distance between an advanced position and a retracted position, the plunger and body defining a chamber. A flow restriction orifice is disposed in at least one of the plunger and the body, and the chamber is in unrestricted fluid communication with the outlet over a first portion of the travel distance and in restricted fluid communication with the outlet by way of the orifice over at least a second portion of the travel distance.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Caterpillar IncInventor: David Yu-Zhang Chang
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Patent number: 7228827Abstract: A method for controlling an engine having both an electronically controlled inlet device, such as an electronic throttle unite, and an electronically controlled outlet device, such as a variable cam timing system is disclosed. The method of the present invention achieves cylinder air charge control that is faster than possible by using an inlet device alone. In other words, the method of the present invention controls cylinder air charge faster than manifold dynamics by coordination of the inlet and outlet device. This improved control is used to improve various engine control functions.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: John David Russell, Allan Joseph Kotwicki
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Patent number: 7228828Abstract: A method of controlling an engine having a valve actuation system is provided. The engine is started. A first parameter indicative of a first temperature of the engine is sensed. A second parameter indicative of a second temperature of the engine is sensed. The valve actuation system is disabled to prevent the implementation of a variation on conventional engine valve actuation timing in response to each of the first and second temperatures being below a predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Caterpillar IncInventors: Robert A. Kagy, Jason K. Bloms, Steven J. Funke
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Patent number: 7228829Abstract: A system for continuously varying valve-opening overlap in reciprocating internal combustion engines changes the path of the timing belt (16) that drives the intake valve camshaft (26). An idler wheel (44) mounted on a pivoted arm (48) turns against the timing belt. At low engine speeds, the sprocket wheel idles against the timing belt. At higher engine speeds, increased engine oil pressure causes a hydraulic cylinder (58) to force the sprocket wheel against the timing belt, changing its path. As the path of the belt is changed, the intake valve position is advanced with respect to the position of the crankshaft (12). The exhaust valve position remains the same relative to that of the crankshaft. Thus at above-idle speeds, intake-exhaust valve overlap is present. Since the amount of belt path deviation is related to engine oil pressure, and thus engine speed, valve overlap varies smoothly as a function of engine speed. A tensioner (30) maintains proper belt tensioning at all times.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: George Louie
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Patent number: 7228830Abstract: A valve timing control device includes a drive pulley driven by a crankshaft of an engine, and a driven camshaft. The camshaft has a cam that serves to open and close an intake port. An engine valve is spring-loaded by a valve spring, whereas the cam opens or closes the engine valve against the bias of the spring. Torque is transmittable between the drive pulley and the camshaft, and a rotation angle adjusting mechanism is provided therebetween. The rotation angle adjusting mechanism has a movable operating member being movable in a substantially radial direction.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventor: Masahiko Watanabe
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Patent number: 7228831Abstract: An adjustable camshaft system for an automotive engine includes a camshaft having machined and fabricated axially-directed control passages combined with an oil-activated camshaft phaser. The fabricated oil control passages are formed within a portion of the camshaft having an outside diameter which is substantially equal to the outside diameter of other portions of the camshaft fitted within bearings carried within the engine's cylinder head.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Ryan O'Gorman, Jonathan Edward Fleming, Joel John Beltramo
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Patent number: 7228832Abstract: An internal combustion engine having a camshaft which is translatable between first and second positions to control an engine operating characteristic. The camshaft is rotationally driven from the engine crankshaft, and includes an oil pump member in fluid communication with the oil sump of the engine. During rotation of the camshaft, the oil pump member pumps oil from the oil sump to various lubrication points in the engine, and also generates an oil pressure which acts upon at least a portion of the camshaft. At low engine speeds, the oil pressure is insufficient to translate the camshaft. However, at high engine speeds, the oil pressure is sufficient to translate the camshaft axially during running of the engine, and the camshaft returns to its initial position when the speed of the engine decreases. Translation of the camshaft may facilitate an automatic compression and/or vacuum release feature, a low and high speed cam switching feature, or a low oil shutdown feature, for example.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2004Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Tecumseh Products CompanyInventor: Keith A Novak
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Patent number: 7228833Abstract: An improved rocker system for actuating valve lift events of an internal combustion engine is provided. The system includes a rocker arm and an actuator link with the actuator link arranged to be in constant driving engagement with the rocker arm and a camshaft. A rocker shaft is positioned in a cylinder head and oriented to have a rotational axis that is substantially perpendicular to a rotational axis of the camshaft and the rocker arm is arranged to be rotated about the rocker shaft and engage a valve to actuate valve lift events of the internal combustion engine.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2003Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: DaimlerChrysler CorporationInventor: James R Klotz
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Patent number: 7228834Abstract: An intake manifold assembly includes a housing, a shaft assembly, an intake insert, and a flange seal. Bushings are located at each end of the shaft and spaced along the shaft to absorb vibrations and provide a low friction surface for shaft assembly rotation. In addition, the bushings allow for differences in the thermal expansion of the shaft and the intake manifold housing. A bearing is located adjacent a shaft locator to provide a hard mounting surface for the shaft assembly when assembled with the housing.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Siemens Canada LimitedInventor: Mark Letourneau
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Patent number: 7228835Abstract: An outboard motor has an air intake manifold with a plurality of intake runners and a surge tank. The runners extend from combustion chambers of an internal combustion engine to the surge tank. The air intake manifold is positioned next to one side of the internal combustion engine. An idle regulating valve supplies secondary air from the atmosphere to the air intake manifold. Secondary air flows into the idle regulating valve through an air intake port. The secondary air flows out of an air supply port of the idle regulating valve into the surge tank. The idle regulating valve is located in a space between the internal combustion engine and the air intake manifold, The air supply port of the idle regulating valve opens directly into the surge tank.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Yamaha Marine Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Koei Kokubo
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Patent number: 7228836Abstract: A spring retainer formed from a titanium alloy and comprising a cylinder and a brim formed integrally with the cylinder is disclosed. The brim has on a top thereof a slope formed such that a thickness of the brim decreases radially outwardly.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignees: Honda Motor Co., Ltd., Tanaka Seimitsu Kogyo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroyuki Horimura, Kosuke Doi, Yoshikazu Kanazawa, Masahiro Sawai
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Patent number: 7228837Abstract: A filtering system provides an oil flow to a filter carried by a support offset from a down tube of a motorcycle frame. An engine mounted bracket directs oil flow to be filtered to a cap assembly which is attached to an oil conduit. A threaded tubular member of the cap assembly permits rotational positioning of the attached conduit end, and positioning of the conduit, to facilitate conduit passage past motorcycle components to the filter support.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Inventor: Gerald J. Smith
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Patent number: 7228838Abstract: An internal combustion engine includes a piston reciprocating in a cylinder; a crankshaft; and a multilink piston-crank mechanism linking the piston with the crankshaft. The multilink piston-crank mechanism includes an upper link having a first end connected with the piston by a piston pin; a lower link mounted rotatably on a crankpin of the crankshaft and having a first end connected with a second end of the upper link by a first connection pin; a control link having a first end connected with a second end of the lower link by a second connection pin; a control shaft connected movably with a second end of the control link and configured to rotate in synchronization with the crankshaft and at a half rotational speed of the crankshaft; and a phase adjusting section configured to variably adjust a phase of rotation of the control shaft relative to the crankshaft in accordance with an operating condition of the engine.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Shunichi Aoyama, Katsuya Moteki, Shinichi Takemura
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Patent number: 7228839Abstract: A four-stroke internal combustion engine is operated in controlled auto-ignition mode by any of a variety of valve control strategies conducive to controlled auto-ignition conditions in conjunction with in-cylinder fuel charges that are at either stoichiometric or lean of stoichiometric air-fuel ratios. A measure of engine NOx emission is provided and when it crosses a predetermined threshold, the in-cylinder fuel charge is transitioned from the operative one of the stoichiometric or lean of stoichiometric air-fuel ratios to the inoperative one of the stoichiometric or lean of stoichiometric air-fuel ratios.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Tang-Wei Kuo, Paul M. Najt, James A. Eng, Barry L. Brown, Chen-Fang Chang, Jun-Mo Kang
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Patent number: 7228840Abstract: A plurality of spark electrodes are disposed in an arc shape on the surface or so as to be projected from the surface of an insulating member formed on a part of the wall face of a combustion chamber, and are formed so as to be in series electrically via discharging gaps. A spark plug is provided integrally with an injector, and the spark plug and the ignition coil are integrated. The three members are constructed as an integral unit, thereby improving installability to an engine.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2005Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Yoshihiro Sukegawa, Noboru Tokuyasu, Yusuke Kihara