Patents Issued in July 3, 2007
  • Patent number: 7237647
    Abstract: An electric power steering apparatus includes a speed reducing mechanism for decelerating the rotation of a rotatable shaft in an electric motor and a converting mechanism for converting the output rotation of the speed reducing mechanism into the axial movement of a steering shaft extending toward the right and left sides of a vehicle. The speed reducing mechanism includes an input pulley driven by the electric motor, an output pulley arranged with the steering shaft enclosed thereby, a belt for connecting the input pulley and the output pulley to each other, and a belt tension adjuster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignees: Jtekt Corporation, Gates Unitta Asia Company
    Inventors: Kensaku Nakamura, Kazuaki Nagamatsu, Hiroshi Murataka, Akihiro Hironaka
  • Patent number: 7237648
    Abstract: A surround sound system and method involving a surround sound tower (10) having planar speakers (11b); a base plate (20); and a structure for positioning (30) the surround sound tower on the base plate (20), the surround sound tower (10) being mounted on, and normal to, the positioning structure (30) for customizing sound direction and constructive interference patterns by interactively positioning the sound tower (10) and by modular usage of both sub-woofers (12a) and tweeters (13a), economizing floor space, especially in a home theater environment, the positioning structure (30) having a structure for indicating an angular rotation (40) of the surround sound tower (10) relative to the base plate (20) and a structure for facilitating rotation (50) of the angular rotation indicating structure (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Monster Cable Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Noel Lee, Demian Martin
  • Patent number: 7237649
    Abstract: A ladder for climbing trees and other vertical elements having a pair of spaced stiles, a plurality of rungs between such stiles and stand off elements on the stiles or rungs for spacing the ladder from the object to be climbed which will maintain the ladder in generally parallel relation to the object. Adjustable straps secure the ladder to the object. The ladder is provided in joinable sections to permit the same to be erected against the object without scaling the ladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Terry Harmston
  • Patent number: 7237650
    Abstract: A tension device for use with a self-retracting lifeline having a drum includes a lifeline and an elastic member. The lifeline has a retracting end, an intermediate portion, and a connecting end. The retracting end is operatively connected to the drum, and the connecting end is releasably connectable to a user. The elastic member interconnects the retracting end and the connecting end. The elastic member provides tension on the lifeline and prevents the drum from retracting the lifeline when the connecting end of the lifeline rebounds in an upward direction during a fall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: D B Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Scott C. Casebolt
  • Patent number: 7237651
    Abstract: A rappelling apparatus providing controlled constant speed to a cable unwinding from a rotating spool in frictional engagement with a stationary arcuate surface. Rotations of the spool are responded to by a centrifugal brake acting in inverse proportion to the rotations. An addition brake is provided for selective actuation by a person using the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: EasyDown Corporation
    Inventors: Ivars Avots, Richard Barton, Herbert H. Loeffler
  • Patent number: 7237652
    Abstract: A lubrication apparatus that lubricates mechanism of a molding machine. The lubrication apparatus includes a tank for collecting lubrication oil therein, and a lubrication oil supply route for supplying lubrication oil from the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Sumitomo Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryuichi Takanohashi, Mitsuo Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7237653
    Abstract: Signals sent from detectors through input units are inputted to respective microcomputers. Microcomputers are synchronized with each other by an external clock, and execute input processing and arithmetic operation processing. In addition, a common memory is connected to each of the microcomputers, which read out/write data from/to the common memory through respective buses. In such a manner, each of the microcomputers adopts a simple hardware configuration having the external clock and the common memory which are common to the microcomputers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Akihiro Chida
  • Patent number: 7237654
    Abstract: To provide a compact lifter device, which can attain a work-piece's lifting/lowering operation in a stable supporting state and can reduce the parts number and an assembly load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Tsubakimoto Chain Co.
    Inventors: Shunji Sakura, Hiroki Ishida, Shiro Inoue, Takayuki Morimoto
  • Patent number: 7237655
    Abstract: An arrangement and method for preventing unauthorized access of personnel into the hoistway of an elevator system. The arrangement includes a security device for mounting in the vicinity of an auxiliary release mechanism of a landing door to prevent actuation of the auxiliary release mechanism during normal operating conditions. The security device includes an energization circuit which, in use, is responsive to changes in operating conditions of the elevator system and may also include an obstruction member movable in response to the energization circuit between a first position preventing key access through a keyhole during normal operating conditions and a second position permitting access through the keyhole during abnormal operating conditions. Accordingly, a key can only be inserted through the keyhole to actuate an unlocking bit of the auxiliary release mechanism to release the landing doors during abnormal operating conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Inventio AG
    Inventor: Johannes Kocher
  • Patent number: 7237656
    Abstract: An improved measuring device for measuring the load of an elevator including a car suspended by a tension member within a hoistway, a termination (36) at one end of the tension member (28), a mounting plate (42) for attaching the termination relative the hoistway, and a hitch (38) for attaching the termination to the mounting plate further including load cell (56) positioned between the hitch and the mounting plate wherein the load cell generates a signal proportional to the load of the car
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Otis Elevator Company
    Inventors: Dale Barrett, Nizar Dassouki
  • Patent number: 7237657
    Abstract: A friction plate is formed of a core plate and friction linings bonded on opposite surfaces of the friction plate, respectively. To permit cooling of each friction lining from a side of its associated surface of the core plate, the friction plate is provided, for example, with oilways or grooves arranged on the associated surface of the core plate, adhesive-free parts existing on he associated surface of the core plate, or loosely-packed portions existing in the friction lining such that lube oil is also facilitated to enter each friction lining from the side of the associated surface of the core plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: NSK-Warner K.K.
    Inventors: Yoshio Kinoshita, Shun Kitahara, Tamotsu Fujii
  • Patent number: 7237658
    Abstract: A frictional brake mechanism for detaining a first body relative to a second body having a surface, comprising a brake pad coupled to the first body and disposed adjacent to the surface and movable to and from a braking condition, wherein the brake pad frictionally engages the surface, and a non-braking condition, wherein the brake pad is disposed in a spaced relation to the surface; a biasing structure for biasing the brake pad to the braking condition; a release structure operably coupled to the brake pad and movable to and from a non-release position, wherein the brake pad is biasable to the braking condition, and a release position, wherein the brake pad is disposed substantially in the non-braking condition; and a release key in operable communication with the release structure and movable to and from first and second positions relative thereto, wherein when the key is disposed in either of the first or second positions, the release structure is disposed substantially in the release position and when the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Hydro Blade, Inc.
    Inventors: Clint Garwood, Tracy H. Tepper
  • Patent number: 7237659
    Abstract: A disk brake is disclosed that has a shim between a brake pad and a pressuring element for pressing the brake pad against a disk rotor. The disk brake includes a stopper portion for stopping movement of the shim 70 with respect to the brake pad 50, wherein a point of action on the shim the stopper portion acts on is provided at the downstream side in a rotating direction of the disk rotor 14 with respect to a point of action on the shim the pressuring element acts on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yasushi Murayama
  • Patent number: 7237660
    Abstract: The invention discloses a transporting wheel structure of storage and luggage container. Particularly, the transporting wheel structure is applied at a lower portion of a container for facilitating movements of the container. Rollers of the transporting wheel structure can be pushed out for use or completely hidden when tucked in, and are prevented from staining clothes with dirt thereon when the container is lifted. The invention is characterized that, using relationships between inclined surfaces of triangular push members and vertical push members, the rollers can be pushed out for use or completely hidden when tucked in, thereby providing a pleasant-looking and functional structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Yi-Ming Wu
  • Patent number: 7237661
    Abstract: An input shaft brake and disconnect apparatus is provided in a housing between an engine and a transmission. The disconnect apparatus has a first cavity that receives pressurized fluid causing a piston to shift and disconnect an input shaft from a clutch. Pressurized fluid is provided to a second cavity to shift a piston that is associated with a single brake disk or double brake disk that are disposed on one or both sides of an input shaft rotor that is retained on an input shaft. The disconnect apparatus and brake allow for quicker shifting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Wade A. Smith, Troy S. Reinoehl, Kevin F. Schlosser
  • Patent number: 7237662
    Abstract: A selectively operable one-way torque-transmitting mechanism has a friction actuator, which is operable to adjust the position of torque-transmitting members between the inner and outer race of the selectable one-way torque-transmitting mechanism. In an unactuated position of the friction actuator, the torque-transmitting members will permit rotation in one direction and prevent rotation in the opposite direction. In the actuated position, the torque-transmitting directional functions are reversed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Scott H. Wittkopp
  • Patent number: 7237663
    Abstract: A torque fuse device having a bi-directional release mechanism that releases the torque carrying capability of the shafts upon torque overload is provided. The torque fuse device includes a sleeve, a hub positioned within the sleeve, and a hydraulic torque coupler. The sleeve and the hub are adapted to be coupled with two axially aligned shafts. The hub includes a feedback ring having at least one tooth formed therein. The hydraulic torque coupler includes a piston, a cylinder and a collet. The piston is positioned between the collet and the feedback ring and slides along an inclined surface of collet. One ore more fuse pins are selectively positioned between the tooth, the piston and the cylinder to frictionally engage the sleeve to the hub. Upon a torque overload condition, the pins release from the teeth thereby releasing the torque carrying capability of the shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Riverhawk Company
    Inventor: Robert Whitney
  • Patent number: 7237664
    Abstract: A power transmitting apparatus, which can simultaneously achieve radial size reduction and improve strength of the driving clutch plate, has a clutch housing (2) and a plurality of driving clutch plates (6) each having projections (6a) projecting radially outward from the periphery of the driving clutch plate (6). The projections (6a) engages the clutch housing (2) to rotate with it. A clutch member (4) has a plurality of driven clutch plates (7) alternately arranged between the driving clutch plates (6). A pressure plate (5) is provided to carry out the pressure-contact or release of the driving clutch plates (6) relative to the driven clutch plates (7). Each of the driving clutch plates (6) has a peripheral surface (?), a projected wall surface (?), of the projections (6a), and a connecting surface (?). Each connecting surface (?) connects the projected wall surfaces (?) and the peripheral surface (?).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha, F.C.C.
    Inventors: Norihiro Sugita, Makoto Kataoka, Tomokatsu Kosuga, Ryo Egawa
  • Patent number: 7237665
    Abstract: A clutch assembly (20) for a fan drive system (12) of an engine (14) includes a translatable clutch housing (30) that is coupled to a fan (16). A rotating shaft (27) has a non-grooved thermal energy transfer portion (28) that is coupled to a drive pulley (32) of the engine (14). A liner (34) resides between and is engageable with the rotating shaft (27) and the translatable clutch housing (30). The engagement thereof generates thermal energy. The non-grooved thermal energy transfer portion (28) has a cross-sectional thickness (T1) of approximately less than 11 mm and transfers a significant portion of the thermal energy to the drive pulley (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: Samuel E. Settineri
  • Patent number: 7237666
    Abstract: A multi-stop mechanism for providing multiple stop positions between first and second objects that are movable into and out of contact with one another. The multi-stop mechanism of the present invention includes a housing which secures the multi stop mechanism to the first object and/or the second object, a rotatble shaft rotatably mounted to the housing, and plurality of stops located on the rotatable shaft. When the shaft is rotated within the housing, the stops are rotated to different positions relative to the housing. As such, the rotatable shaft positions one of the stops to contact the first or second object that the multi-stop mechanism is not attached to.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventor: Steven T. Fink
  • Patent number: 7237667
    Abstract: The invention concerns a roller track device based on simple kinematics, enabling reduction of the number of parts and production costs of the assembly as well as its space requirement, and designed for being fitted on new handling apparatuses as well as for retrofitting. The invention also concerns a platform or fork handling apparatus equipped with such a device. The roller track device (10) comprises a substantially horizontal table (21) whereon are mounted ball sockets (23), with a rack (31) mounted on top provided with openings (32) arranged opposite the balls (23). The rack (31) is mobile relative to the table (21) between a high position wherein it conceals the balls (23). A handle (41) coupled to the rack (31) enable its displacement in horizontal translation (Th).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Rotobloc S.A.R.L.
    Inventor: Pierre Marcelli
  • Patent number: 7237668
    Abstract: The device for sorting items, such as rolls, is provided downstream of a first number (N) of feeding channels (Ca) of items (R), which feeding channels (Ca) are provided with dispensing members (8) for a controlled release of the items (R). The device (100) includes: a number of mobile tracks (5) equal to the first number (N), arranged downstream of the N feeding channels (Ca) and operatively associated in pairs, so as to define operating gaps (H1) between successive pairs. The first mobile tracks (5) are movable in reciprocal synchronism, transversally (W) to the feeding channels (Ca). A second number (M) of second mobile tracks (6) are arranged downstream of the feeding channels (Ca) and are disposed each one between successive pairs of the first tracks (5) at the operating gaps (H1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: T.M.C. S.p.A.
    Inventor: Gianluigi Gamberini
  • Patent number: 7237669
    Abstract: Resilient clamps assemble modular sections of a serpentine conveyor belt at peripheral positions of mated interface walls and retain the walls in sealing, face-to-face contact while the belt moves through a laterally bending pathway. The clamps provide opposed latchkeys that register into boltways or recesses in the mated walls to lock the modular sections into fixed positions with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Serpentix Conveyor Corp.
    Inventors: Mark H. Alldredge, Jason Bastemeyer, Robert E. Nissen, Robert D. Nusz
  • Patent number: 7237670
    Abstract: A conveyor having a conveyor belt with article-supporting rollers selectively rotated to direct conveyed articles toward one side of the conveyor or the other. The belt rollers are arranged in longitudinal columns and can rotate on axes parallel to the direction of belt travel. Salient portions of the belt rollers protrude through the thickness of the belt. An array of powered rollers, each powered roller underlying a column of belt rollers, is selectively moved into and out of contact with the belt rollers to cause them to rotate to direct articles conveyed atop the belt rollers toward or off one side of the conveyor when the conveyor belt is stopped.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Laitram, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Robert S. Ryan
  • Patent number: 7237671
    Abstract: A multiple packaged good article package including a carrier, a multiplicity of packaged good articles, a handle, and retaining means. The carrier includes a base panel and first and second side panels. The packaged good articles each include a bag that defines opposing major faces, a top region, and a bottom region, and are arranged on the carrier in an upright, major face-to-major face fashion with the bottom regions resting on the base panel. Each of a first and second outermost package provides an exposed major face relative to a remainder thereof. The first and second side panels extend along a portion of the respective exposed major faces. The handle is provided apart from the carrier and extends across the top regions of the packaged good articles. Finally, the retaining means secures an interior packaged good article to the outermost packaged good articles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: General Mills, Inc.
    Inventors: Prima S. Chambers, Chris Reed
  • Patent number: 7237672
    Abstract: A radiation bag system comprising a major body portion in a generally rectangular configuration including a linear bottom edge and a parallel linear top edge with perpendicular side edges there between. The side edges include a discontinuous side edge and a parallel continuous side edge. A minor handle portion in a generally rectangular configuration includes a linear bottom edge and a parallel linear top edge with perpendicular side edges there between. The body portion and handle portion are fabricated of a flexible sheet material with an upper sheet and a congruent lower sheet coupled along the upper edge of the handle portion and the lower edge of the body portion. The upper sheet and lower sheet are also coupled along the discontinuous edge. The sheets are thus adapted to form a major chamber in the body portion. The sheets are thus also adapted to form a minor chamber in the handle portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventors: John T. Governale, Dan Young
  • Patent number: 7237673
    Abstract: A storage container for housing bits includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion pivotally connected through a hinge for moving between open and closed positions. The first housing portion defines a first body cavity and the second housing portion defines a second body cavity in the closed position. At least one bit holder is pivotally connected to the hinge and arranged to fit within the first body cavity in the closed position. The bit holder includes a plurality of bit receiving portions formed thereon for accepting the bits. The bit receiving portions are generally parallel to the hinge. A cover is pivotally connected to the second housing portion and moveable between open and closed positions for accessing the second body cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: David Wikle, Mark E Brunson, Jennifer Ervin
  • Patent number: 7237674
    Abstract: A package includes an article group formed of two or more vertically arranged tiers of similarly dimensioned, cylindrical articles disposed on their sides in a side-by-side parallel fashion, and a carton disposed around the group. The carton includes a top wall, opposed side walls, an end wall and an article dispenser. The side walls are disposed alongside the ends of the articles while the end wall is disposed adjacent to the side wall of an endmost article. The dispenser includes a corner portion of the carton formed from and detachably connected to the top, side and end walls to define an opening upon removal of the corner portion. The opening is shaped to define a recess in the end wall to reveal a part of the endmost article in the lowermost tier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: MeadWestvaco Packaging Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Jean-Michel Auclair
  • Patent number: 7237675
    Abstract: A support apparatus for receiving and supporting stacked tiers of bottles, particularly wine bottles. The support apparatus is (a) located below a first tier of layers of wine bottles, (b) placed between tiers of bottles, in case of multiple layers of bottles, and (c) secured above a top tier of layers of bottles, all to provide a stacked and secured arrangement of bottles that is suited for storage or transport. The support apparatus is preferably formed from a resinous plastic, polymeric material, such as PET. A multiple of the bottle supports combine to support a multiple layers of bottles in a tiered array. The bottle supports are manufactured in thin, nestable configurations, and are stored with a small, compact nested stack height.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Joseph O'Malley
  • Patent number: 7237676
    Abstract: A sized demonstration kit distributable or mailable to customers for marketing purposes is illustrated with reference to a moisture control material and system for wicking away and dissipating body moisture. The kit has a relatively small holder in the shape of a container or foldable device having, an exterior surface for at least a printed address and postage, an interior surface defining a storage space, with access to the storage space. Optionally the holder is transparent or with a viewing window. Samples of the moisture control material and associated items for testing purposes are removably offered to the interior surface of, a first space for printed information on the nature and operation of the moisture control material and system, and a second space for printed instructions on how to test at least one of the samples of the moisture control material are disposed in the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: H. H. Brown Shoe Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne Celia
  • Patent number: 7237677
    Abstract: An oral-product container is disclosed that includes: a) a plurality of breath fresheners contained therein for breath freshening purposes; and b) a mirror for visage freshening purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Robert I. Berg
  • Patent number: 7237678
    Abstract: Display box for housing a cylindrical container with a side portion thereof visible through a window provided in at least one of the side walls of the box, including elements which interfere with the container, to lock the container, protect the container within the box, and to prevent the container from accidentally rotating about an axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: GI. BI. EFFE S.r.l.
    Inventor: Carmelo Lo Duca
  • Patent number: 7237679
    Abstract: A process for separating particles of different sizes comprising projecting a stream of particles into a fluid medium; allowing the particles to develop differing trajectories in the fluid medium; providing at least two separate collection areas for different average size particles from the stream of particles; and collecting particles along said different trajectories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Aveka, Inc.
    Inventors: William A. Hendrickson, John Anderson, Monica A. Hamer, Peter Lentz, Joe Rechtiene
  • Patent number: 7237680
    Abstract: An air separator system for separating shredded trash into relatively light material and relatively heavy material. An air stream is provided at an end of a conveyor. A splitter plate system comprises a rotating cylinder supported by a frame, and a splitter curtain hanging below the cylinder. The amount of light material which make it over the cylinder into a collection area can be controlled by adjusting at least one of a speed of the conveyor, an angle of the conveyor with respect to horizontal, an angle of the airstream with respect to the angle of the conveyor, a pressure of the airstream, a position of the airstream relative to the end of the conveyor, a distance between the bar and the conveyor, and a height of the bar with respect to a height of the conveyor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Steven M. Viny
  • Patent number: 7237681
    Abstract: A ring filter element is provided for a liquid filter, especially for an oil filter for purifying lubricating oil, especially for an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle. The ring filter element comprises a filter material which is arranged in an annular manner and at least one end disk comprising an outwardly protruding journal which is eccentrically arranged in relation to the longitudinal central axis of the ring filter element. The functionality of the ring filter element can be improved by providing a discharge channel which radially penetrates the journal and the associated end disk next to the filter material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Mahle Filtersysteme GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Brieden, Benoit Monzie
  • Patent number: 7237682
    Abstract: A filter assembly comprising a housing with a threaded open end, a filter element, and a cover assembly. The filter element includes a media ring and a pair of end caps, one of which includes outwardly-projecting fingers. The cover assembly includes a cover member, and a sleeve with recesses in an outer surface. A collar member surrounds the sleeve and is freely rotationally supported by the cover member. The collar member includes i) a threaded portion on an outer surface for screwing the cover member onto the housing, and ii) recesses in an inner surface. The collar member is rotatable relative to the sleeve such that the recesses in the collar member and in the sleeve can be aligned, and the fingers can be inserted therebetween, to rotationally lock the collar member relative to the sleeve and to retain the element with the cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Parker-Hannifin Corporation
    Inventors: Anita L. Reynolds, Donald J. Gembolis, Raymond G. Herr, Daniel W. Miller
  • Patent number: 7237683
    Abstract: The current invention provides an improved display device for displaying coins, medals and medallions. The display device is designed to focus the viewer's attention on the object on display without blocking a substantial portion of the object from the view. Additionally, the current invention provides a display device suitable for displaying a coin, medal or medallion along with a related secondary object. Finally, the current invention provides a device suitable for display a plurality of coins, medals or medallions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Charles E. Hammers
  • Patent number: 7237684
    Abstract: A column stabilising grid (1) is described for use in constructing stable columns of stacked objects, such as containers of paint. The grid (1) has a perimeter wall (2) bounding a number of locating cells (3) defined by walls (6) and (7) extending from a floor (4). Primary locating walls (6) are dimensioned to receive the base of a larger object and to resist lateral movement thereof. Secondary locating walls (7), each encompassed by a primary locating wall (6), are dimensioned to receive the base of a second, smaller object and to resist lateral movement thereof. The secondary locating walls (7) are eccentrically located within the primary locating walls (6). Stop means (10) and (11) depend from the underside of the grid (1). In use, a column is constructed by placing a grid (1) between adjacent layers of objects in a stack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Imperial Chemical Industries PLC
    Inventor: Richard Marian Kanachowski
  • Patent number: 7237685
    Abstract: Storage devices allow for the efficient storage of objects which include a substantially cylindrical member such as a fishing rod. The storage device includes a support member which is coupled to a retaining member. The retaining member includes multiple protruding members positioned substantially perpendicular to the support member to form multiple tapered slots which can have openings of varying widths. The substantially cylindrical member of an object is inserted into the tapered slot to create a friction fit to retain the object in a substantially vertical position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Green Touch Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel J. Keegan, David D. Sargent
  • Patent number: 7237686
    Abstract: A spice rack including an array of sliding drawers positioned on a base. The assembly will be placed on an existing kitchen cabinet shelf. It should be noted however, that the assembly may be made to replace the existing shelf if desired. The assembly is designed to store spice containers in a relative small space, which containers may be easily identified and retrieved. Each drawer includes a planar, horizontal bottom surface having a knob secured to the front end. Plural dowels are positioned along each side of the planar surface to define an enclosed area for the spice containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventors: Richard L. Bertrand, Denise C. Bertrand
  • Patent number: 7237687
    Abstract: A hinged hanging device adapted to be mounted over the top of a door. The device can be adjusted to extend outwardly from the surface of the door to provide a support for conventional hangers or to fold substantially flat against the door surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Merrick Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Abraham Abdi, Charles L. Coulter, Terry Lee Oster
  • Patent number: 7237688
    Abstract: A storage container having a unique hinge arrangement is provided. The container includes a cover and base portion having hinge portions extending therefrom. The hinge portions are molded from a die configuration that creates adjacent cavities formed vertically and laterally. The hinge portions are arranged such that the cover and base interfit to reveal a continuous passage. A pin is inserted through the continuous passage completing a workable hinge. The storage container includes internal lateral wall sections on the cover and base having tabs extending therefrom. The tabs are configured to accept removable spacers. The spacers include side walls that are contoured such that an object may be easily removed without becoming caught in an angled corner. Transparent lids are releasably latched to the inside of the cover and base. The latches for the lids are located in a position that requires each lid to be locked prior to closing the case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: James E. Pangerc, Gregory Scott Snider
  • Patent number: 7237689
    Abstract: A plastic waste container is rotationally molded with a hollow material carrying or holding compartment having a bottom, rear, front and opposed side walls. A plastic pocket defining a prong receiving channel, located on each side wall, is integrally formed with the compartment, i.e., molded therewith or premolded and subsequently bonded thereto. Preferably a skirt, extending around each of the pockets, is integrally molded with the compartment and includes struts extending along the side walls of the compartment, above and below the pockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Global Distributors LLC
    Inventors: Richard A. Maggio, Sr., Ronald C. Pearson
  • Patent number: 7237690
    Abstract: A product dispenser attached to or associated with one or more articulating members or components, which are user manipulable to provide a novelty object dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventor: Marilyn Stern
  • Patent number: 7237691
    Abstract: A flexible bag having expansible and collapsible cells can be used in a liquid dispenser. A rigid manifold, and in one instance a rigid frame is provided in the bag to keep passages open in use and to isolate one of the cells from the remaining cells. The manifold is capable of altering the volume of one of the cells so that the same bag can be used in different applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Baxter International Inc.
    Inventors: Hal C. Danby, Michael W. Scharf, Julian F. Swan, David V. Bacehowski
  • Patent number: 7237692
    Abstract: A pourer for a liquid container is disclosed. This pourer has a base element (1, 2) with a supply duct (13) and also a pouring element (5) with a pouring duct (53). The pouring element (5) is connected swivellably to the base element (1, 2) in order to connect the pouring duct (53) to the supply duct (13). The pouring element (5) is surrounded by a collecting cup (4). A return means (57) for returning liquid from the collecting cup (4) into the liquid container is also present. In order to improve hygiene and to avoid dirt entering the liquid container, the collecting cup (4) is connected rigidly to the pouring element (5). The pourer is suitable in particular as an oil dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Pi-Design AG
    Inventor: Jørgen Bodum
  • Patent number: 7237693
    Abstract: A dual fluid cartridge for storing and dispensing fluids in unequal ratios is disclosed. The dual fluid cartridge disclosed defines two fluid chambers for a fluid to be held in greater amount and defines another fluid chamber for a fluid to be held in lesser amount. The two fluid chambers holding the fluid of greater amount are in fluid communication with one another through a delivery channel. Because of this arrangement, the dual fluid cartridge is very suitable and highly effective in situations where a dual fluid cartridge is needed to store and dispense fluids of unequal ratios (e.g. a 10:1 ratio, a 9:1 ratio, an 8:1 ratio, a 7:1 ratio etc.). With such an arrangement, the amount of space wasted in the cartridge is minimized, which maximizes the amount of fluids that can be stored in the cartridge. As a result, the total final product that can be dispensed from the dual fluid cartridge is also maximized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Tah Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Brennan, Phillip W. Hamilton, Jason E. Henning, Daniel William Mottram, Dwayne J. Pulcine, Robert W. Springhom
  • Patent number: 7237694
    Abstract: A pump apparatus for an adjustable metering and dispensing pump apparatus for food products including a product piston moving in a product cylinder, the product cylinder being connected to a food hopper and a dispensing nozzle. The pump apparatus also includes a cylindrical valve moving within a central aperture in the product piston to selectively open and close passageways also in the product piston which communicate with intake and outlet ports connected to the product cylinder. The valve is attached to a valve piston moving within a valve piston cylinder and the valve piston cylinder is attached to a source of compressed air, to a sensor and to a control assembly. The control in turn is connected to a foot switch to allow an operator to initiate a cycle of the pump apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Quantum Technical Services, Inc.
    Inventor: Mark J. Freudinger
  • Patent number: 7237695
    Abstract: A mechanical grouting and re-pointing device includes a closed pressure vessel for containing grouting or re-pointing material, an input to the pressure vessel for the supply thereto of compressed gas, and an outlet from the pressure vessel to which is attached a nozzle for directing outputted material to the joint to be filled. The device also includes a flow control valve for regulating the flow of compressed gas to the pressure vessel and, as a consequence, for controlling flow of material from the vessel through the nozzle. A manually operated air bleed valve mounted externally of the pressure vessel communicates with the interior of the vessel to control pressure within the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Inventors: Colin Dee, Graham Dunn, Peter Prickett, John Williams
  • Patent number: 7237696
    Abstract: A container (1) for drink is provided with a top (2) and with an outlet (4) that is located at the top and is connected to a flexible dispensing line (5), the container having a chamber (32) at the top in which the dispensing line (5) is accommodated. The dispensing line (5) is provided at its outlet end (6) with a grip element (30) that is located in or close to a cut-out (35) in the peripheral wall. By positioning the flexible tube in the chamber this tube can be hygienically protected from the environment during storage and transport of the container and mechanical damage thereto is prevented, whilst easy handling remains possible. The chamber (32) can be closed by a lid (52).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2007
    Assignee: Hëineken Technical Services B.V.
    Inventors: Marcel Peter Magermans, Piet Hein Willem Timp