Patents Issued in July 24, 2007
  • Patent number: 7246513
    Abstract: A calibration device and method for lateral force calibration in small force measuring devices such as atomic force microscopes is disclosed. A platform has a substantially planar surface including a slot for accommodating at least part of the AFM cantilever tip, one or more supporting legs arranged to provide sprung resistance to the platform and a capacitive drive means for driving the platform laterally with respect to the AFM cantilever tip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: The Secretary of State for Trade and Industry of Her Majesty's Britannic Government
    Inventor: Peter J. Cumpson
  • Patent number: 7246514
    Abstract: In the present invention, a method is provided for installing and locating a plurality of sensors distributed on a structure as part of a structural health monitoring system. The method includes verifying the proper installation of the plurality of sensors and determining the location of the plurality of sensors. In one aspect of the present invention, the step of verifying the proper installation further comprises verifying that each of the plurality of sensors are properly coupled to a sensor data collector and verifying that each of the plurality of sensors are installed in a proper location. In another aspect of the present invention, the step of determining the location of the plurality of sensors further comprises determining the positioning of each sensor in reference to fixed structures in the structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Grant A. Gordon, Joseph Nutaro, Steven R. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7246515
    Abstract: A filtration tester has a scale, a collector disposed on the scale, a pump having an outlet aligned with an opening of the collector, and a force sensor connected to the pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: Paul Tyrell
  • Patent number: 7246516
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device comprising a thermobalance equipped with a detector (5) for measuring acoustic signals emitted by a sample (6) hanging from the balance beam and a preamplifier (2) incorporated in the vicinity of the head of the balance. The invention allows gas phase kinetic study of the degradation of materials and of depositions on these materials under temperature (100 to 1400° C.). In particular, corrosion phenomena such as: oxidation, sulfurization, carbonizing, metal dusting, nitriding, hydridation, chlorination, molten salt attack, and combinations of these degradations. Besides, deposits on the materials can be due to coking phenomena (carbon deposits), deposition of molten salts, volatile compounds condensation. The invention allows evaluation of the efficiency of inhibitors against corrosion and deposition processes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Francois Ropital, Philippe Dascotte
  • Patent number: 7246517
    Abstract: An atomic force microscope probe provides an indentation testing function in a direction along an axis. The probe has a tip and an arm structure holding the tip. The arm structure has one end mounted on a fixed stage, the other end coupled to the AFM tip, and a hollow frame having a shape symmetric with respect to a plane including an axis on which the two ends are positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Korea Institute of Machinery & Materials
    Inventors: Hak-Joo Lee, Jae-Hyun Kim, Chung-Seog Oh, Seung-Woo Han, Shin Hur, Soon-Gyu Ko, Byung-Ik Choi
  • Patent number: 7246518
    Abstract: A housing configured to accommodate a tire monitoring unit may include an extended portion, extending along a circumference of a wheel rim, and a pair of engaging members provided in parallel with the extended portion at opposite lateral sides thereof. A holder may be provided that is configured to accommodate the housing therein and to be secured to the wheel rim. The holder may include an open end portion, configured to receive therein the housing, and a holding portion configured to hold the extended portion. Also, the holder may include at least a pair of engaging portions provided in parallel with the holding portion at opposite lateral sides thereof and configured to engage with the engaging members, so that when the housing is inserted into the holder through the open end portion, with the extended portion being held in the holding portion, the engaging members are engaged with the engaging portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Pacific Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Ito, Koji Ito
  • Patent number: 7246519
    Abstract: Advanced electronic metering of natural gas consumption is a new opportunity in the recent free market economy of the utility sector in the US and Europe. Real-time continuous measurements facilitate our awareness in the consumption of a non-renewable energy resource, which is a first step towards taking energy saving measures in domestic and commercial buildings. We here disclose a real-time desktop information system for natural gas consumption based on a new wireless electronic flow-meter. The meter is drift-free by subjecting thermal anemometry to a novel modulation technique. It uses a dynamical flow-interface to control the exposure of a thermal flow-sensor to a streaming medium. A discrete modulation of the flow perturbs the total heat-flux from the sensor to the medium. The relative perturbation, normalized to total heat-flux, creates a Nusselt number which is a function only of the Reynolds number of the flow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventors: Maurituis H. P. M. van Putten, Anton F. P. van Putten, Michel J. A. M. van Putten, Pascal F A M V Putten
  • Patent number: 7246520
    Abstract: To provide a transducer that can detect the rotation of the transducer with high degree of accuracy, a transducer includes a pair of oscillating reeds extending in the Y-direction to generate a first oscillation to generate a Coriolis force corresponding to the rotation of the transducer, a beam extending in the X-direction and connected to the pair of oscillating reeds, a first detecting unit provided on the beam to detect deformation of the beam due to a second oscillation of the pair of oscillating reeds caused by the Coriolis force, a base member to support the beam, a first connecting device to connect one end of the beam and the base member, and a second connecting device to connect the other end of the beam and the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventors: Makoto Eguchi, Shigeo Kanna
  • Patent number: 7246521
    Abstract: Sensors and systems for monitoring structural health conditions. The present invention provides a device for monitoring structural health conditions including a dielectric substrate, a piezoelectric device for actuating and/or sensing Lamb waves, a molding layer deposited over the piezoelectric device, a cover layer deposited over the molding layer and a hoop layer surrounding the piezoelectric device and being attached to the substrate. The device further includes an optical fiber coil sensor attached to the dielectric substrate, where the coil sensor has a rolled optical fiber cable and a coating layer applied to the rolled optical fiber cable. The present invention also provides a diagnostic patch network that includes a plurality of patch sensors attached to a host structure and a bridge box connected to the patch sensors. The bridge box sends information of structural health conditions to and receive power from a ground control system using a wireless communication technique.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Hyeung-Yun Kim
  • Patent number: 7246522
    Abstract: A multiparameter acoustic signature inspection device and method are described for non-invasive inspection of containers. Dual acoustic signatures discriminate between various fluids and materials for identification of the same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Battelle Memorial Institute
    Inventors: Aaron A. Diaz, Todd J. Samuel, Juan D. Valencia, Kevin L. Gervais, Brian J. Tucker, Leslie J. Kirihara, James R. Skorpik, Larry D. Reid, John T. Munley, Richard A. Pappas, Bob W. Wright, Paul D. Panetta, Jason S. Thompson
  • Patent number: 7246523
    Abstract: An ultrasonic sensor includes an ultrasonic microphone having a circular vibration surface, a substantially cylindrical cushion unit where the ultrasonic microphone is inserted, and a case unit which has a fitting portion provided with a cylindrical engagement hole therein. The cushion unit and the fitting portion are respectively provided with cushion-side guide portions and fitting-side guide portions which are to be engaged with each other, so that the cushion unit is axially guided to be inserted into the fitting portion and restricted from circumferentially rotating. The cushion unit has cushion-side engagement portions, which are engaged with case-side engagement portions of the fitting portion and capable of bending toward a diametrically inner side of the cushion unit in the insertion of the cushion unit into the fitting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: DENSO Corporation
    Inventors: Fumimasa Magane, Yasuhiro Kawashima
  • Patent number: 7246524
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a novel, lightweight, massively parallel device comprising microelectromechanical (MEMS) fluidic actuators, to reconfigure the profile, of a surface. Each microfluidic actuator comprises an independent bladder that can act as both a sensor and an actuator. A MEMS sensor, and a MEMS valve within each microfluidic actuator, operate cooperatively to monitor the fluid within each bladder, and regulate the flow of the fluid entering and exiting each bladder. When adjacently spaced in a array, microfluidic actuators can create arbitrary surface profiles in response to a change in the operating environment of the surface. In an embodiment of the invention, the profile of an airfoil is controlled by independent extension and contraction of a plurality of actuators, that operate to displace a compliant cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Sandia Corporation
    Inventors: Deepesh K. Kholwadwala, Gabriel A. Johnston, Brandon R. Rohrer, Paul C. Galambos, Murat Okandan
  • Patent number: 7246525
    Abstract: This invention relates to absolute pressure sensors with two bonded wafers containing a pressure sensing structure and forming a reference pressure chamber and a buffer chamber. Since the buffer chamber collects molecules, which permeate through a bonding interface between the two wafers, a raise in pressure of the reference chamber can be avoided. The sensor is therefore more resistant to pressure equalisation between the pressure chamber and the pressure of the surroundings, i.e. the sensed pressure and repetitive recalibration of the sensor can be avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Danfoss A/S
    Inventors: Karen Birkelund, Christoffer Greisen, Pirmin Rombach
  • Patent number: 7246526
    Abstract: A pressure sensor having a digital output includes a substrate formed with plural channels, and a gating part formed in such a way that an area confronting with the plural channels is spaced from the substrate and moved in response to an external pressure, thereby making the plural channels selectively conductive. Such a pressure sensor can obtain binary information of each channel from the fact that which is made to be conductive among the plural channels is determined by the movement of the area formed in the gating part to confront with the plural channels, and it is possible to measure a pressure within a set range from binary information of each of the plural channels. As a result, because a peripheral circuit of the pressure sensor can be simplified, the manufacturing costs and power consumption can be greatly reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jong-hwa Won, Jung-ho Kang, An-sik Nam, Tae-sik Park
  • Patent number: 7246527
    Abstract: A device and a method are disclosed for testing a curved panel assembly, which simulates a segment of an aircraft fuselage barrel section, subjected to combined loading. The device includes an axial load head assembly attached to the test panel assembly via one axial load fitting and configured to apply an axial load to the test panel assembly, and an axial-torsion reaction box connected to the axial load head assembly via linear journal bearing assemblies, where the axial-torsion reaction box is configured to be rotated by a pair of torsional loading systems to apply a torsional load to the test panel assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Douglas R. Ostgaard, Ramanlal A. Patel, Lee A. McNeil
  • Patent number: 7246528
    Abstract: A toner evaluation method that enables accurate evaluation of fixation performance of toner such as low temperature fixability and offset resistance, and a toner cartridge and an image forming apparatus adopting the toner positively evaluated by the evaluation method are provided. Toner is formed into a disc-shaped pellet. After preserved at a predetermined temperature, the pellet is compressed by a predetermined amount at a constant speed. If the maximum load (compression resistance) measured during the compression is a predetermined value or below, the minimum fixing temperature of the toner is relatively low.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Satoshi Tanabe
  • Patent number: 7246529
    Abstract: An oscillating vane actuator for active control of fluid flow over a surface includes a pivoted vane surrounded by a wedge-shaped chamber, and first and second conduits with openings adjacent the surface. The actuator also includes a rotating shaft with a connecting rod to actuate the vane in a oscillatory manner. As the vane travels in one direction, fluid is forced out from the chamber through the first conduit and opening into the fluid stream adjacent the surface, while fluid is simultaneously drawn in through the second opening and conduit into the opposite side of the chamber. Similarly, when the vane travels in the opposite direction, fluid is forced out through the second conduit and opening into the fluid stream adjacent the surface, while fluid is simultaneously drawn in through the first opening and conduit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: Arthur Gregory Powell
  • Patent number: 7246530
    Abstract: The invention relates to measurement of a fluid flow, wherein a flow rate component of the fluid is measured along a selected direction. A magnetic field whose polarity varies over time is applied to the fluid, which presumed to contain electrically charged elements. First and second sensor electrodes (120, 121) are arranged to be wetted by the flowing fluid. The electrodes (120, 121) are spaced apart from one another along a line being substantially perpendicular both to the selected flow direction and a magnetic axis of the magnetic field. A DC-level drift of the sensor electrodes (120, 121) is prevented by supplying a control current (Ictrl-0; Ictrl-1) to each of the sensor electrode (120, 121), which has such sign and magnitude that a direct-current voltage level at the sensor electrodes (120, 121) relative areference potential is controled towards a predetermined voltage (DCset).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Gambro Lundia AB
    Inventors: Hans Hallstadius, Göran Ohlsson, Sven Gustafson, Bengt Jonasson, Gert-Inge Bertinsson
  • Patent number: 7246531
    Abstract: A first shaft and a second shaft are connected coaxially. A torsion bar converts a torque applied between two shafts into a torsion displacement. A multipolar magnet is fixed to the first shaft. One set of magnetic yokes is fixed to the second shaft and disposed in a magnetic field generated by the multipolar magnet. The magnetic yokes are opposed to each other via an air gap in an axial direction. A magnetic sensor is provided for detecting the density of magnetic flux generated in the air gap. A non-magnetic spacer is disposed between the magnetic yokes as a means for positioning the magnetic yokes. The spacer and the magnetic yokes are integrated by resin molding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignees: DENSO CORPORATION, NIPPON SOKEN, INC.
    Inventors: Naoki Nakane, Shigetoshi Fukaya
  • Patent number: 7246532
    Abstract: A flow indicator comprising a housing and a floater and adapted to draw an air sample is provided. The housing has at least one lower inlet port, an interior space, an upper outlet port, and a transparent window. The floater is disposed inside the housing and is adapted to move substantially vertically in accordance with the flow of the air sample. The floater is also adapted to indicate a flow rate of the air sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Dong-Hyun Kim, Bok-Seok Yang, Do-Hyun Cho, Hwan-Ki Choi, Jae-Han Koo
  • Patent number: 7246533
    Abstract: A counterweight in a reciprocating saw counterbalances a reciprocating shaft assembly adapted to hold a saw blade. The counterweight is supported for reciprocating motion by slides which ride within slots formed in a housing adapted to hold the reciprocating mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Anthony Lagaly, Thomas Arnold Mooty, James Pierce Nichols, Jr., Earl Roger Clowers, Matthew George Popik
  • Patent number: 7246534
    Abstract: Engine torque selectively inputted through first and second input shafts is received and changed selectively by first and second output devices respectively having first and second output shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventors: In Chan Kim, Tae Seok Seo
  • Patent number: 7246535
    Abstract: A method for recognition of the synchronization position and the end of the synchronization operation in an automated shiftable transmission with an electromotive shift actuator is disclosed, which is characterized in that the rotational speed of the shift actuator is detected and the synchronization position, as well as the end of the synchronized operation, is determine based upon the change of the rotational speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Reinhard Berger, Martin Vornehm, Stefan Winkelmann
  • Patent number: 7246536
    Abstract: A multiple speed power transmission is disclosed having an input, first and second input shafts, first and second clutches releasably coupling the input to the first and second input shafts, respectively, and a set of selectable power paths connecting the first and second input shafts to the output, the set of selectable power paths having at least one power path that includes both the first and second input shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Reid Baldwin
  • Patent number: 7246537
    Abstract: A leadscrew assembly includes a leadscrew having a leadscrew thread wire helically wound about a leadscrew axis in a plurality of cylindrical leadscrew-thread turns and having a leadscrew-thread pitch. A leadscrew wire nut assembly includes a nut-assembly wire helically wound about the leadscrew axis in a plurality of cylindrical nut-assembly turns and having a nut-assembly-thread pitch. The nut-assembly-thread pitch is substantially the same as the leadscrew-thread pitch, the nut-assembly turns overlie and mesh with the leadscrew-thread turns, and the nut-assembly wire has a permanent deformation therein. A wire-nut-assembly housing overlies and is bonded to at least some of the nut-assembly turns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Raytheon Company
    Inventor: Gabor Devenyi
  • Patent number: 7246538
    Abstract: A centering device for elongated elements consisting of a fixed position-retaining part (13) which includes a concave guiding surface (16), and a mobile position-retaining part (12) arranged on the elongated element, or vice versa. The mobile position-retaining part (12) includes a pin (14) which is spring biased for contact against the concave guiding surface. The pin (14) is arranged in at least one casing, and is together with the casing arranged in a cavity (20) in a holder which is fixedly attached to the elongated element with a pin head (23) protruding out of an opening (24) in a front end of both the casing and the holder. The holder (15) includes a seat (38) with a guiding surface for a peripherally conical portion (36) of the casing. This is spring biased in the axial direction so that the conical portion strives to be in contact with the seat of the holder in and for centering of the casing and the pin relative to the longitudinal axis (21) of the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Kongsberg Automotive AB
    Inventor: Bengt Hermansson
  • Patent number: 7246539
    Abstract: An apparatus for actuating a control surface includes a first spur gear; a first drive assembly engaged with the first spur gear; a second spur gear; and a second drive assembly engaged with the second spur gear. The apparatus further includes a gear assembly engaged with the first spur gear and the second spur gear and adapted to be coupled with the control surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Mark A. Turner
  • Patent number: 7246540
    Abstract: Three congruent prongs (16A, 16B, 16C) mounted on a shaft tube (12), converges simultaneously when an operating sleeve (14) moves forward. This action, along with their notches and shape provides a firm grip for holding and starting nuts and bolts. These prongs, made out of 304 grade stailess steel bands, provide good spring-like flexibility and rigidity. The concave sides of the prongs mate with the outside surface of the shaft tube (12) every time the operating sleeve (14) is moved forward. These physical features provide consistent alignment of the prongs every time the tool is used. With rubber sealant (16D) coated on the inside surface of the prongs, the nut and bolt starter gives a firm grip to hold and start a wide variety of shapes and sizes of screws, nuts and bolts. Additional uses of this tool are done with the prop rod (20) supplementing the prongs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Robert P. Rillera
  • Patent number: 7246541
    Abstract: A pipefitting engaging tool assembly includes a housing that has a bottom wall and a peripheral wall. A head is attached to the housing and has a circular opening extending therethrough. The opening is defined by an outer edge that has a slot therein continually extending around the outer edge. A ring member has an outer perimeter edge and an inner perimeter edge. The inner perimeter edge has a plurality of teeth attached thereto and extends inwardly of the ring member. The teeth are configured to engage a pipefitting. The ring member is positioned in the slot in the outer edge of the opening. A drive assembly is mounted in the housing and is mechanically coupled to the ring member to selectively rotate the ring member in a first direction or a second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Robin M. Divack
  • Patent number: 7246542
    Abstract: The present invention includes a driven socket for a female threaded fastener formed from hexagonal steel stock or trilobe, D shaped stock, or round stock with other gripping or holding means. The driven socket also includes six radial lobes located adjacent to one of the hexagon of equal length sides and equidistant from the center of the fastener for loosening and tightening the fastener. A method of the present invention includes the steps for removing or tightening a threaded fastener from a corresponding bolt comprising the steps of: positioning a socket over a washer-nut; positioning a key to align a locking ring having tabs into a slot in the fastener to hold the socket securely to the locking fastener; engaging a lobe on the fastener to place pressure on a leveraging portion of the socket; and wherein rotating the socket removes or tightens the fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Hytorc, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert W. Karol
  • Patent number: 7246543
    Abstract: A multiple function adjustable wrench comprising: a shank 18 having a first end 16 with a fixed jaw 12, a adjustable jaw 10, and a adjusting screw 14. The adjusting screw 14 moves the adjustable jaw 10 toward and away from the fixed jaw 12. Two arms 20a, 20b extend from the second end 38 of the shank 18. A ratchet box 22 includes a first engaging socket 24a that is rotatably engaged with a first engaging hole of the ratchet box 22. The ratchet 22 also includes a second engaging socket 26a having a different inner diameter is rotatably engaged with a second engaging hole of the ratchet box 22. The first engaging socket, and the second engaging socket have a engaging hole defined therethrough. The engaging hole can be toothed so as to form a 12-point engaging socket or square so as to form a square engaging socket. Ratchet mechanisms (not shown) are received in the ratchet box 22 and are cooperated with each engaging socket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Frank Richard Patti
  • Patent number: 7246544
    Abstract: A rotary wrench including a working head and a handle. The handle has two arms defining a holding space in which the working head is installed. The two arms are respectively formed with a first thread hole and a second thread hole with different spiral directions and opposite to each other. The working head has a first threaded end and a second threaded end opposite to each other respectively corresponding to the first and second thread holes of the handle. The first and second threaded ends have different spiral directions respectively corresponding to the spiral directions of the first and second thread holes of the handle. The first and second threaded ends of the working head are respectively screwed in the first and second thread holes of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Chang Chuan Lee
  • Patent number: 7246545
    Abstract: A bi-sectional wrench includes a lever, a handle and a toothed wheel. The lever includes a space defined therein and a plurality of teeth formed on the wall of the space. The handle includes a space defined therein and a plurality of teeth formed on the wall of the space. The toothed wheel is movable in the spaces between a first position and a second position. The teeth of the toothed wheel are engaged with the teeth of the handle and the teeth of the lever so that the handle and the lever are pivoted by a common angular speed in the first position of the toothed wheel. The teeth of the toothed wheel are only engaged with the teeth of the handle or the lever so that the handle and the lever are pivoted by different angular speed in the second position of the toothed wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Yi-Min Lee
  • Patent number: 7246546
    Abstract: A loosening tool for breaking loose tightened threads of a pipe coupling using a plurality of wrench type devices is provided that is simple to use, offers more breakage force than muscling alone, and is relatively safe and effective in its operation. The loosening tool includes a forward facing support jaw, a base bar that supports a corresponding rearward facing support jaw and an adjusting mechanism used to move the forward facing support jaw from a ready position to a loosened position such that the pipe coupling moves to a less tightened position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventors: Kris Knoblock, Fred Knoblock
  • Patent number: 7246547
    Abstract: An assembly tool (20) for a securing system. (1) The securing system comprises an elongate profiled-section element (2) having a longitudinal slot (6), which is delimited by two flanges, and an elongate nut body (3). The nut body is of a width which is less than the width of the longitudinal slot and a length (1) which is greater than the width of the longitudinal slot. The nut body is provided with a bore (8) and, on an underside, with a downwardly projecting spring (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: J. van Walraven Holding B.V.
    Inventor: Jan Van Walraven
  • Patent number: 7246548
    Abstract: Embodied herein is a perforating gun wall that withstands short, high energy pulses of an explosion retained within a loading tube with numerous explosive shaped charges. The perforating gun wall includes two or more layers with an impact strength sufficient to maintain the structural integrity of the gun wall without splitting due to the explosion. Each layer is sleeved within the preceding layer forming a sleeved assembly. One or more of the inner layers includes one or more holes aligned with one or more explosive shaped charges. Each layer comprise a defined material property that reduces occurrences of catastrophic failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: Edward Cannoy Kash
  • Patent number: 7246549
    Abstract: A primer feed mechanism mounted on a carrier of an artillery piece includes a body assembly for mounting the primer feed mechanism on the carrier, the body assembly having guide rails and a follower plate; a tray assembly that is movable on the guide rails of the body assembly, the tray assembly including a housing and an injector arm assembly; an actuator drive link connected to the carrier; a quick release link connected to the actuator drive link; and a drive link assembly connected to the quick release link and to the injector arm assembly; wherein one end of the injector arm assembly includes a push pin that reciprocates in the housing to inject a primer and another end of the injector arm assembly includes a follower that travels in the follower plate of the body assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Stephen M. Van Dyke-Restifo, Douglas F. Olcott, Dominick Scalise, Ralph P. Mischitelli, Lisa J. Madigan, Robert J. Mysliwiec
  • Patent number: 7246550
    Abstract: A pressure differential-driven engine (10) includes an outer pressurizable enclosure (12). A pressure barrier plate (14) is disposed within the outer pressurizable enclosure and an actuator enclosure (16) is disposed adjacent the pressure barrier plate and has an actuator (17) disposed therein. The actuator has a high pressure exposure surface (30) forming an oblique angle with respect to the pressure barrier plate. The pressure barrier plate, a bottom of the actuator, and the actuator enclosure cooperatively define a pressurizable cavity (34) cyclable between a first, high pressure state, and a second, low pressure state. The actuator and actuator enclosure are collectively slidable relative to the barrier plate in reaction to cycling of the pressurizable cavity between the first and second pressure states to produce usable translational energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventor: William Gilbert
  • Patent number: 7246551
    Abstract: A sample handling tool includes a body having at least one plunger associated with a channel and arranged for axial movement within the channel. A seal is provided in the channel and sealingly engaged with a contact surface. The contact surface may include a surface feature, such that when contact surface moves, the seal and surface feature come into at least partial contact with one another. The seal may include an elastomeric member, such as an O-ring or X-ring, and the contact surface may be formed from any suitable material, including ceramic. The surface feature may take on a variety of forms including any suitable texture, surface porosity or include one or more grooves, holes, recesses, indentations, bumps, protrusions, etc., or a combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Protedyne Corporation
    Inventors: Peter Massaro, Michael Paschetto
  • Patent number: 7246552
    Abstract: A piston, having a first side subject to major thrust loading and a second side subject to minor thrust loading, is provided. The piston has a crown portion and a first and second pin boss portion depending therefrom. An axially extending pin bore is provided within the first and second pin boss portions. A first axially extending slot is provided within the piston pin bore on the first side. Additionally, a second axially extending slot is provided within the piston pin bore on the second side of the piston. The second axially extending slot is positioned closer to the crown portion than the first axially extending slot. The first and second axially extending slots are generally concave in shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Schroeder
  • Patent number: 7246553
    Abstract: A bread maker includes a frame, a bracket combined to a side part of the frame and formed with a combining hole, a door provided in front of the frame, and a door hinge combined to the door and formed with a combining projection rotatably combined to the combining hole of the bracket to allow the door to rotatably open and close. Accordingly, the bread maker has a simplified and a secure a door combination structure, thereby enhancing assembly efficiency and decreasing production cost. Further, the bread maker includes a bracket covered with a side cover when the door is open, thereby simplifying and improving the exterior appearance of the bread maker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae-ryong Park, Yong-hyun Kwon, Chul Kim, Tae-uk Lee, Han-jun Sung, Jang-woo Lee, Dong-bin Lim
  • Patent number: 7246554
    Abstract: A charging arrangement for a baking oven (8) is provided with a supply arrangement (9) for dough pieces (4) and a lifting and delivery device (34) for the dough pieces (4). The supply arrangement (9) is provided with a charging inlet, at least one supply bin (10, 23) and a supply outlet arranged underneath the charging inlet. A delivery inlet portion (37) of the lifting and delivery device (34) that is located at the bottom is in delivery engagement with the outlet of the supply arrangement under the influence of gravity. A baking system (1) with such a charging arrangement (9) can be easily operated and does not require the continuous presence of an operator. Furthermore, it can have an optically attractive design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Werner & Pfleiderer Lebensmitteltechnik GmbH
    Inventors: Bernd Dannenhauer, Frank Blümel, Thomas Schmidt
  • Patent number: 7246555
    Abstract: Portable Vacuum Food Storage System with a housing that contains a vacuum pump, an on off power switch, a vacuum pressure switch and a plurality of rechargeable DC batteries. The top of the housing has a gripping member help the user to twist and fasten the housing onto a mating container lid. The housing has a bayonet type fastener at its lower center portion that mates to a receptacle located on the lid, the lid has a vacuum releasing member that can be pressed by the user to relieve the vacuum in the container. The vacuum housing is capable of resting on the lid in a stable manner so that the vacuum operation can take place unattended by the user. The vacuum lid is capable of fitting on standard TupperWare or Rubber Maid containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Shoot the Moon Products II, LLC
    Inventors: David B. Small, Pauls Rago
  • Patent number: 7246556
    Abstract: A case for multiple stamp pads is provided. One embodiment of the case includes a first housing portion for retaining a first stamp pad, a second housing portion for retaining a second stamp pad, a hinge connecting the first and second housing portions for movement between a closed configuration where the first and second stamp pads are facing each other and sealed within the first and second housing portions and an open configuration where the first and second stamp pads are exposed for use, and a divider separating the first and second stamp pads in the closed configuration and swingably covering one of the first and second stamp pads in the open configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Safe-T Products, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Bruce Stoneberg, Simon Leung
  • Patent number: 7246557
    Abstract: A printing group of a rotary printing press includes at least one forme cylinder and at least one transfer cylinder. The forme cylinder has at least two printing forme end receiving channels. These two channels are spaced circumferentially. At least one of these forme cylinder end receiving channels rolls off against a channel in the transfer cylinder. One of the forme cylinder end receiving channels is at least partially covered by a printing forme carried by the forme cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Koenig & Bauer Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Helmut Holm
  • Patent number: 7246558
    Abstract: A novel transfer ordnance line and novel end fittings for the transfer line for use in space vehicles, aircraft, missile systems and other military applications. The transfer line is a Rapid Deflagration Cord (RDC) hermetically encapsulated in a metal tubing. The metal tubing terminates at end fittings such as a loaded high energy (HE) end fitting which detonates, a low energy (LE) end fitting which burns, and a percussion primer used to start burning of the RDC in the transfer line. The transfer line is constructed so that gases produced during the burning of the RDC do not escape and pose a threat to the surroundings during functioning and so moisture does not enter the system during shelflife, transportation, or at any other time prior to functioning. With minor adjustments to the transfer tube and the end fittings, the transfer tubing can be made flexible by forming a coil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: McCormick Selph, Inc.
    Inventor: Lynn G. Hilden
  • Patent number: 7246559
    Abstract: An elevated public transit bus system that increases the passenger capacity and decreases the passenger trip time of a fixed route bus service traveling in traffic on a city street to provide a high capacity rapid transit system. The high capacity buses are suspended above the motor vehicle traffic lanes by a support structure constructed in the lane adjacent to the public sidewalk. The propulsion system of the electrically powered buses run in a box beam from which the transit passenger cabins are suspended. The beams guide the buses along the existing fixed route service that is being upgraded to the carrying capacity of an elevated rail rapid transit system. The bus stops or lift stations of the elevated buses for passenger pick up and drop off is also constructed in the road lane next to the sidewalk. The lift stations house an enclosed movable platform that lifts passengers from sidewalk level to the floor level of the suspended bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Sky Trolley Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald E. Stromberg
  • Patent number: 7246560
    Abstract: A sliding pivot for a support element used with a stanchion which is hinged to the item with which it is used and from which it can be unfolded, wherein one end of the support element is rigidly attached to the stanchion and the opposite end is provided with a substantially transverse portion extending therefrom, comprises a slide, a sleeve provided with a slide pin extending in substantially the same plane as the sleeve, and a socket substantially parallel with the transverse portion, wherein the sleeve is located on the transverse portion, the pin is located in the slide, the sleeve being adapted to rotate about the transverse portion, and the pin to rotate in the slide, the pin moving along the slide when the stanchion is rotated about its hinge, the socket being adapted to receive the transverse portion when the stanchion is in a fully unfolded position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Gopak Limited
    Inventor: Peter Stanley Le Flemming Shepherd
  • Patent number: 7246561
    Abstract: An adjustable furniture assembly having a support structure for receiving a bridge of the furniture assembly is described. The support structure includes a horizontal support member which receives the bridge in a slidable engagement to provide the furniture assembly with adjustability in a right or left direction. The horizontal support member is further adjustable to provide the furniture assembly with adjustability in a vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: O'Sullivan Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew Weatherly
  • Patent number: 7246562
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a delivery door having anti-theft security means, more particularly to a door structure consists of a pair of casings, area adjustable mounting plate, hinge means and actuation means, which are installed on an entrance door or a window for delivering articles or products thereof. A delivery door installed on an entrance door or a window comprise an outer casing (4) and an inner casing (5) pivotally mounted on hinge means (3, 8, 9, 10), actuation means (12, 13, 15, 16) associated with the outer casing (4) and the inner casing (5) for opening and closing operation of casings and the mounting plate (6) having area adjustable means between the outer casing (4) and the inner casing (5) is characterized in that the mounting plate (6) is rotatable while in the transporting operation which securely controlled by the actuation means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Inventors: Jin-Kook Lee, Sung-Hae Lee