Patents Issued in July 31, 2007
  • Patent number: 7249920
    Abstract: A retainer having an elongated body secures one end of a cargo-engaging strapping to a wall anchor of a cargo transport unit wall. In operation, a loop is formed in the strapping and passed from a first side of the anchor to a second side, where the retainer is inserted within the loop, such that the loop engages a portion of a strapping-engaging surface of the retainer body. Then the loop is pulled toward the anchor until the retainer seats against the anchor. Finally, the portion of the strapping extending from the first side is pulled toward the second side, whereby a loose end of the loop is secured against the anchor. The retainer prevents strapping slippage along the anchor, which preserves the tension in the strapping and prevents the cargo from shifting and becoming damaged. The retainer also allows for improved application and removal of the strapping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Ireco, LLC
    Inventors: David R. Early, Rudolph E. Nadherny
  • Patent number: 7249921
    Abstract: A new and improved thermal type bulkhead assembly comprises a pair of new and improved thermal type bulkhead members which are adapted to be adjustably positioned with respect to each other in an overlapped mode in the widthwise direction whereby oppositely disposed side edge portions of the pair of bulkhead members can effectively engage the oppositely disposed interior side walls of the refrigerated cargo container, while upper sections of the bulkhead members can flexibly engage the ceiling portion of the refrigerated cargo container. In this manner, the lateral extent or width dimension x of the thermal type bulkhead assembly, as well as the vertical extent or height dimension y of the thermal type bulkhead assembly, can be adjustably varied whereby the thermal type bulkhead assembly of the present invention is effectively universal in structure so as to be capable of being utilized within different refrigerated cargo containers characterized by different internal width and height dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. McMahon, Stanley Piotrowski, Toby W. Clark, Tilak Varma
  • Patent number: 7249922
    Abstract: A jointing member has a grommet and a pin. The grommet includes a flange portion and a leg portion capable of being opened, in which an insertion hole is formed from the center of the flange portion to the inner portion of the leg portion, and an engagement portion is formed at the inner surface of the leg portion. The pin includes a head portion and a shaft portion to be inserted into the insertion hole, in which an engagement surface and a lock surface each engaging with the engagement portions are formed at the shaft portion. In the jointed and fixed state of panel members, when an unexpected external force is applied to the tip end of the shaft portion of the pin, the engagement portion engages with the lock surface of the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Piolax, Inc.
    Inventor: Akira Yoneoka
  • Patent number: 7249923
    Abstract: This invention relates generally to a flexible fastener for coupling members. In a preferred embodiment, the flexible fastener may be used to couple members that are non-parallel, non-aligned, or in specific instances when selective compliance in a member is desired. The present invention is directed generally to a fastener that comprises a spiral set of teeth. The spiral set of teeth are configured to allow a nut to travel along at least a portion of the spiral set of teeth. A selectively compliant core material runs completely internally to the spiral set of teeth, so that the fastener is laterally flexible along a length of the fastener. The selectively compliant core material is connected to the spiral set of teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: California Polytechnic State University
    Inventor: Saeed Benjamin Niku
  • Patent number: 7249924
    Abstract: A rack serving unit comprises a carriage which may be moved along a rack aisle on substantially horizontal carrying rails. Carried along by the carriage there is a lifting platform which is suspended on the carriage by way of at least two traction mechanisms, preferably cables, and may be moved in the vertical direction with respect to the carriage. To stabilise the lifting platform against undesired lateral movements, a stabilising device is provided which comprises at least one guide element extending substantially horizontally parallel to the translatory movement path of the lifting platform. This guide element is in constant engagement with the lifting platform in such a way that the position of this latter in the direction of the translatory movement is constantly defined. Provided at both ends of the translatory movement path, there is a lifting device for each guide element by means of which the guide element may be moved synchronously with the lifting platform in the vertical direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Eisenmann Maschinenbau KG (Komplementar: Eisenmann-Stiftung)
    Inventors: Franz Ehrenleitner, Thomas Dehm
  • Patent number: 7249925
    Abstract: A substrate protection and transport system and method for transitioning a substrate from atmospheric pressure to vacuum in a lithography tool. The system includes one or more removable substrate transport cassettes that support a substrate. The cassette can include a base portion and top portion, and can include a seal. Each cassette has at least one vent and at least one filter. The system further includes a box having a base and lid. The box holds one or more cassette-substrate arrangements. A storage rack having shelves for holding the box-cassette-substrate arrangement is also provided. Further, an entry-exit module having a loadlock is provided for transitioning the cassette-substrate arrangement from atmospheric pressure to vacuum. The entry-exit module can include a shuttle and/or elevator for transporting the cassette-substrate arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: ASML Holding N.V.
    Inventors: Santiago E. del Puerto, Michael A. DeMarco, Glenn M. Friedman, Jorge S. Ivaldi, James A. McClay
  • Patent number: 7249926
    Abstract: A driveway truck restraint blocks the path of travel of an ICC bar at the back of a truck on a driveway at a loading dock to prevent forward travel of the truck away from the loading dock. The restraint is removably anchored to the driveway in non-cast-in relation without concrete around an encasing column depending downwardly through the driveway into the subgrade. A low profile is provided both above and below grade. A water dam is provide around a cable opening. Simplified, economical installation is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Nova Technology International, LLC
    Inventors: William B. Mayer, Douglas M. Cull, Gregory L. Kwolek, Adam B. Peltier, James P. Hagen
  • Patent number: 7249927
    Abstract: A storage rack connectable to a mounting structure of a vehicle for supporting a load, comprising a load supporting structure, a swing arm assembly, and a lift assembly. The load supporting structure is adapted to support the load when the load is associated with the load supporting structure. The swing arm assembly is connected to the load supporting structure, the swing arm assembly being attachable to the mounting structure of the vehicle. The lift assembly is associated with the load supporting structure for facilitating lifting of the load to the load supporting structure whereby the load can be supported by the load supporting structure and thus the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Tactical & Rescue Gear, Ltd.
    Inventors: Donald W. Wooten, Robert E. Reed, Jr., Robert F. Fisher
  • Patent number: 7249928
    Abstract: A turbine nozzle for a gas turbine engine includes a nozzle segment having an airfoil-shaped vane with a root, a tip, a leading edge, a trailing edge and opposed curved pressure and suction sides. An arcuate inner band segment is attached to the root of the vane. The inner band segment includes an inner flowpath surface bounded at forward and aft ends thereof by a forward-facing surface and an aft-facing surface, respectively. A convex curved blended corner is formed between the inner flowpath surface and the aft-facing surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Kevin Samuel Klasing, Scott Michael Carson
  • Patent number: 7249929
    Abstract: A gas turbine engine compressor has a number of shroud rings, at least a bleed one of which defines a number of bleed ports. A structural hub is downstream of the shroud rings and secured relative to the shroud rings. A structural hub case extends from an aft joint with the structural hub to a fore joint with a joined one of the shroud rings and has a number of valve ports. At least a portion of the structural case extends structurally between the fore and aft joints. A valve element is shiftable between first and second conditions for respectively blocking and not blocking communication through the valve ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: United Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin J. Cummings, Christopher G. Demers, James C. Hodgson, Gabriel Suciu, Brian Merry
  • Patent number: 7249930
    Abstract: A turbine housing assembly includes a tubular piston disposed in a bore of a turbine housing and axially slidable between a closed position and an open position for blocking a nozzle by an amount dependent on axial positioning of the piston. A bypass control member is disposed in the turbine housing and is slidable between a no-bypass position closing a bypass passage and a open bypass opening the bypass passage. The piston is structured and arranged to slide relative to the bypass control member for a part of a full stroke of the piston from the closed position toward the open position thereof, and then to engage the bypass control member and cause the bypass control member to slide together with the piston as the piston further slides toward the open position thereof such that the bypass control member is moved toward the bypass position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Honeywell International, Inc.
    Inventors: Alain R. Lombard, Sebastien Ferrari, Jean Luc Perrin, Patrick Masson
  • Patent number: 7249931
    Abstract: Twisted blades for outdoor air conditioner condensers and heat pumps that improve airflow efficiency to minimize operating power requirements. The blades can run at approximately 850 rpm to produce approximately 1930 cfm of air flow using approximately 110 Watts of power from an 8-pole motor with an improved diffuser assembly. Using an OEM 6-pole ? hp motor produced approximately 2610 cfm with approximately 145 Watts of power while running the blades at approximately 1100 rpm. Power savings were approximately 24% (40 to 50 Watts) over the conventional configuration with increased air flow. Embodiments of two, three, four and five blades can be equally spaced apart from one another about hubs. Additionally, a novel noise reduction configuration can include asymmetrically mounted blades such as five blades asymmetrically mounted about the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: University of Central Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Danny S. Parker, John Sherwin, Bart Hibbs
  • Patent number: 7249932
    Abstract: A rotary pump includes an impeller mounted on a shaft (12) supported for rotation in bearings. A bearing and bearing casing assembly (26) proximate the impeller is prone to ingress of undesirable matter. A shield assembly (40) includes the shaft (12) and a shield (40) rotatable with the shaft and positioned intermediate the impeller and the bearing assembly (26). The shield comprises an integral, moulded, disc (42) and composite rim (44), which includes a lip (50) having an inwardly proud beading (52) normally touching an outer periphery (34.1) of the bearing assembly. A cowl (48) surrounds the lip with clearance when the shaft (12) rotates. The beading (52) dilates under centrifugal force to provide running clearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Weir Minerals Africa (Proprietary) Limited
    Inventors: Siegfried Geldenhuys, Robert Denis Todd
  • Patent number: 7249933
    Abstract: A turbine stage includes a row of airfoils and their platforms spaced laterally apart to define flow passages therebetween. Each airfoil is integrally joined to its platform at a funnel-shaped fillet along the pressure side of the airfoil which decreases in size from the leading edge towards the trailing edge. A field of film cooling holes extends through the platform along the fillet for discharging film cooling air.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Ching-Pang Lee, Jan Christopher Schilling, Aspi Rustom Wadia
  • Patent number: 7249934
    Abstract: A hollow turbine airfoil includes pressure and suction sidewalls extending in span between a root and tip and extending in chord between opposite leading and trailing edges. The pressure sidewall includes a first pattern of first holes distributed in span and chord over a majority thereof, and a second pattern of different second holes also distributed in span and chord over a minority of the pressure sidewall between the tip and the midspan of the airfoil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Nicholas Charles Palmer, Kevin Lee Kirkeng, Ching-Pang Lee
  • Patent number: 7249935
    Abstract: A lightning protection device which is capable of avoiding electrical current, which is being induced in the blades of wind turbine, from being passed to parts of the wind turbine that may be damaged or destroyed by the electrical current. The electrical current is passed along by electrical conductors extending from the blades to a stationary part of the wind turbine. A flange for mounting the hub of the wind turbine to the main shaft is provided where the electrical conductors lead either through or past the mounting flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: NEG Micon A/S
    Inventor: Bent Hersø Pedersen
  • Patent number: 7249936
    Abstract: A dual capacity compressor, which can maintain a fixed eccentricity and stable operation, even when the compressor is rotated in both the regular and reverse directions in order to provide multiple compression capacities, is provided. This dual capacity compressor implements an improved key member and associated key member fitting parts to inhibit relative motion of the crank pin and the eccentric sleeve during operation, so as to reduce or eliminate a destabilizing effect due to centrifugal forces on the eccentric sleeve and external forces applied through the connecting rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Young Ju Bae, Jong Bong Kim, Chul Gi Roh, Jae Sung Sim, Dal Soo Kang, Min Young Seo, Hyun Kim, Kyoung Jun Park, Kee Joo Kim, Hee Hyun Kim
  • Patent number: 7249937
    Abstract: A hermetic electric compressor including sealed container and coil spring provided for elastically supporting electric compression element housed in sealed container. A consideration has been made to avoid the coincidence in the resonance frequency between coil spring mounted with electric compression element and mechanical vibration caused by electric compression element, or a cavity formed in space. By so doing, creation of a resonation with coil spring is suppressed, and noises and vibrations with the hermetic electric compressors are reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Matsushita Refrigeration Company
    Inventors: Akira Inoue, Seigo Yanase, Ikutomo Umeoka, Atsushi Naruse
  • Patent number: 7249938
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a linear compressor. In the present invention, the configuration that a sealing protrusion is protruded in a sealing part of a cylinder toward an exhale cover leads line contact with the exhale cover and the sealing protrusion of the sealing part. Even though small power is applied to the exhale cover, the exhale cover and the sealing protrusion are closely adhered to each other, thus effectively sealing the exhale cover and the cylinder. Furthermore, as power transmitted from the exhale cover to the cylinder becomes reduced, a transformation of the cylinder can be prevented, and a performance and reliability of the linear compressor can be enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Ki Won Noh, Jong Tae Her
  • Patent number: 7249939
    Abstract: It is sought to provide a rear casing arrangement for a magnetic drive pump, which can sufficiently provide such functions pressure resistance and heat resistance, which give rise to problems in the case of manufacturing the rear casing from a material based on a synthetic resin, and can also be manufactured at low cost. A reinforcing belt-like ring member is woundly fitted on the outer periphery of a cylindrical barrel part of an inner casing member constituting a rear casing. The belt-like ring member has a width smaller than the length of the barrel part. A casing cover member is fitted on the belt-like ring member in the above fitted state. Alternatively, it is possible to fit the belt-like ring member on the outer periphery of a barrel part of the casing cover member. These parts can be disassembled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Iwaki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshinori Yanagihara, Koichi Kojima, Yoshihiro Iba
  • Patent number: 7249940
    Abstract: A temperature regulator main body is connected to a cooling hole formed in a temperature regulating part under a hopper through a tube and comprises a tank for a cooling medium, a pump, a radiator, and a fan facing the radiator to send cold air and driven by a motor. By driving of the pump, the cooling medium circulates between the temperature regulating part under the hopper and the temperature regulator main body. A temperature sensor is provided to the temperature regulating part under the hopper. A controller for controlling an injection molding machine cools the circulating cooling medium by the fan and feedback controls the temperature of the temperature regulating part under the hopper when a temperature detected by the temperature sensor is higher than a preset temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: FANUC Ltd
    Inventors: Koji Senda, Hideki Koyama
  • Patent number: 7249941
    Abstract: A rotation table transfers a casting mold M injected with a plastic composition in a circular manner. An active-energy-ray irradiating area is provided to irradiate active energy rays onto the casting mold M in a predetermined angular range when the casting mold M is loaded on the rotation table and the rotation table is rotated once. A servo motor drives the rotation axis of the rotation table. A controller controls the servo motor such that the active energy rays from an ultraviolet lamp are irradiated onto the casting mold M in the active-energy-ray irradiating area for a required time. When the rotation table is intermittently rotated by 60° degrees in a counterclockwise direction, the casting mold M supplied from a supplying/removing area is irradiated by the ultraviolet rays in the active-energy-ray irradiating area, gradually cooled in the cooling area, and returned to the supplying/removing area again and is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Isao Karasawa
  • Patent number: 7249942
    Abstract: A three dimensional object creation system that prints objects layer by layer, the system including a plurality of printheads (102), the system printing at least part of each of multiple layers (110, 114, 118 etc) simultaneously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Kia Silverbrook
  • Patent number: 7249943
    Abstract: An apparatus for forming elongated composite structural members with a desired cross-sectional geometry as taken transverse to the length of the member. The apparatus may include a base with a substantially elongated mandrel mounted thereon. One or more rollers configured to at least partially complementarily engage the mandrel are configured to roll over and press a plurality of plies of composite material onto the mandrel. The rollers may be configured to form intermediate structures which partially conform to the geometry of the mandrel prior to forming the final structure, which substantially completely conforms to the geometry of the mandrel. The rollers serve to both form and debulk the structure. The present invention enables the formation of elongated structural members from resin-impregnated materials while maintaining the materials in a substantially uncured state. The formed members may then be cocured with a skin or other composite structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Alliant Techsystems Inc.
    Inventors: Vernon M. Benson, Jason Slack, Todd A. Rosevear
  • Patent number: 7249944
    Abstract: A device for blow molding or blow drawing of containers made of thermoplastic performs. The molding device is movable, mainly rotatable and includes at least one wallet-type mold provided with two mold-halves rotatable with respect to each other around an axis; two links which are connected to each other by one of the extremities thereof with the aid of a first pivot pin and pivotally connected to two mold-halves by the other extremities thereof on both sides of the common pivoting axis thereof; actuation devices which are connected to the first pivot pin and provided with at least one cam follower interacting with at least one respective fixed cam so that the first pivot pin is moved in a direction toward the mold or away therefrom, thereby opening or closing the mold. A compensating device acts so that at least one cam follower permanently contacts the respective cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Sidel
    Inventors: Vigen Arakelyan, Nicolas Marc Alexandre Rousseau, Vincent Brachet, Pierre-François Langlois
  • Patent number: 7249945
    Abstract: A device for opening and closing injection nozzles in an injection moulding tool. The injection nozzle comprises a nozzle member, the nozzle opening of which can be opened and closed with a needle. The needle is stationarily arranged on a piston plate that is supported in a receptacle such that it can be moved in both axial directions similar to a double-action cylinder. A first work chamber is formed on the side of the piston plate which faces away from the needle and a second work chamber that can be acted upon with a fluid in order to actuate the needle is formed on the opposite side of the piston plate. The needle extends outward from the second work chamber through a recess in an end element that lies opposite of the piston plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Heitec-Heisskanaltechnik GmbH
    Inventor: Hans Schreck
  • Patent number: 7249946
    Abstract: The invention relates to a thermal generator comprising a furnace tube (2) wherein a fuel is burnt, recombustion means (14, 15) for reducing the nitrogen oxides content present in said fumes and means (3) for recovering the heat of the fumes resulting from said combustion. The invention is characterized in that recombustion means (14, 15) are arranged in containment means (11).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Institut Francais du Petrole
    Inventors: Gérard Martin, Willy Nastoll, John Roesler
  • Patent number: 7249947
    Abstract: The venting chassis is designed to function optimally with jar candles that have small diameter mouths, and jar candles that have oddly shaped, non-cylindrical or smaller sized jars. The venting chassis includes an annular skirt that is dimensioned to extend below the jar shoulder that is formed between the sidewalls and jar brim. The skirt physically separates the inlet air flow from the exhaust air flow to facilitate laminar air flow within the jar candle. The skirt has three longitudinal depressions or channels, which form three inlet vents that open just below the shoulder. The skirt is shaped and configured to acts as a nozzle to constrain thereby increasing the velocity and inertia of the airflow and to vent the inlet airflow under the shoulder directly onto jar sidewalls thereby cooling the jar sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: Tod A. Papai
  • Patent number: 7249948
    Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for ergonomic dental instruments for dental professionals with small hands. In one embodiment, a dental instrument includes an elongated metal handle having a length in the range of about 3- 7/16 inches to about 3- 15/16 inches and a diameter in the range of about ¼ inches to about ¾ inches. A working end may be operably coupled to one or both ends of the handle via a sweated fit. The length and knurling of the elongated metal shaft and terminal shaft facilitate optimum performance for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Chapin Hill Instrument Company, LLC
    Inventor: Elizabeth J. Hill
  • Patent number: 7249949
    Abstract: An internal connection dental implant and implant assembly in which the implant includes a lobed configuration for installing the implant and a beveled surface positioned on the proximal side of the lobed configuration for providing stability between the implant and a corresponding abutment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Lifecore Biomedical, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert D. Carter
  • Patent number: 7249950
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods are provided directed at teaching writing, such as printing, cursive, and calligraphy, to users of all ages. Typically, the embodiments are directed toward teaching children the basic skills of writing. However, it may be appreciated that the embodiments may be utilized by users of all ages. In particular, embodiments of the invention can be used to teach the skill of writing and learning letters of the English alphabet to foreigners. Or, embodiments of the invention can be used to teach English speakers various foreign alphabets. For example, embodiments may provide instruction in writing Arabic letters, Greek letters, or Chinese or Japanese characters, to name a few. Additionally, embodiments of the invention may be used to teach artistic forms of writing, such as calligraphy, script, or various fonts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: LeapFrog Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Glen Freeman, Elecia White, Ed Annunziata
  • Patent number: 7249951
    Abstract: A mechanical interface for providing high bandwidth and low noise mechanical input and output for computer systems. A gimbal mechanism includes multiple members that are pivotably coupled to each other to provide two revolute degrees of freedom to a user manipulatable about a pivot point located remotely from the members at about an intersection of the axes of rotation of the members. A linear axis member, coupled to the user object, is coupled to at least one of the members, extends through the remote pivot point and is movable in the two rotary degrees of freedom and a third linear degree of freedom. Transducers associated with the provided degrees of freedom include sensors and actuators and provide an electromechanical interface between the object and a computer. Capstan band drive mechanisms transmit forces between the transducers and the object and include a capstan and flat bands, where the flat bands transmit motion and force between the capstan and interface members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Immersion Corporation
    Inventors: JoeBen Bevirt, David F. Moore, John Q. Norwood, Louis B. Rosenberg, Mike D. Levin
  • Patent number: 7249952
    Abstract: A training system using haptically enhanced simulations of dental procedures to provide the sensorimotor involvement needed for dental training. To provide touch feedback in combination with a realistic visual experience, the system integrates a haptic stylus interface for simulating the movement and feel of the tool-tip with a three-dimensional, stereoscopic display. The haptic stylus enables the dental student to orient and operate simulated dental tools. Working on a virtual model viewed in a stereo display, dental students can use a simulated pick to probe a tooth, or a simulated drill to prepare a tooth for cavity repair. The touch feedback is simulated by representing these dental instruments as force-to-a-point tools which map to haptic simulation procedures executed on a computer workstation that also provides the visual display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: President and Fellows of Harvard College
    Inventors: John F. Ranta, Walter A. Aviles, R. Bruce Donoff, Linda P. Nelson
  • Patent number: 7249953
    Abstract: A method for interconnecting two circuit boards includes positioning corresponding shielded land areas on circuit boards, the land areas including conductive core areas and conductive outer areas around the core areas. A block-like signal array is positioned between the first and second circuit boards, the signal array includes shielded conductors with axial and outer conductive elements. A first compressible interface element including a layer of insulating material having a plurality of conductive elements extending through the insulating material layer is postioned intermediate the shielded land area and the signal array. A second compressible interface element is positioned intermediate the shielded land areas on the other circuit board and the other end of the signal array. The two circuit boards are fastened together to compress the respective compressible interface elements between the signal array and the circuit boards for electrically coupling the circuit boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Tensolite Company
    Inventor: Christopher Alan Tutt
  • Patent number: 7249954
    Abstract: A separable electrical connector for electrically interconnecting an electrical device to a substrate. In one embodiment, the connector includes an adapter board electrically connected to the substrate, the adapter board having electrical contacts on both sides, and a layer of ACE between the electrical device and the adapter board. A mechanical structure is used to apply a compressive force on the ACE through the adapter board and the electrical device. In another embodiment, the connector includes a translator board having electrical contacts on both sides and electrical circuits within to expand the footprint of the fine pitch electrical device to the coarser pitch of the substrate. The connector further includes a layer of ACE between the translator board and the substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Paricon Technologies Corporation
    Inventor: Roger E. Weiss
  • Patent number: 7249955
    Abstract: In some embodiments an apparatus includes a board, a package coupled to the board, and a flex cable coupled to the package and extending between the board and the package. Other embodiments are described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Bryce D. Horine, Gary A. Brist
  • Patent number: 7249956
    Abstract: An electric connection box includes a first cover and a second cover each having connector mounting portions, a first wiring board and a second wiring board which are mounted in a stacked manner between the first and second covers, a plurality of press-contacting terminals which are disposed in the connector mounting portions of the first and second covers, and are inserted in the first and second wiring boards, and a connecting wire which is selectively connected to the press-contacting terminals, and is arranged to extend over the first and second wiring boards when the first and second wiring boards are stacked together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Masaaki Ishiguro, Kazue Nishihara, Masataka Amano
  • Patent number: 7249957
    Abstract: A connector fixing structure includes a substrate, a connector, and a housing. The substrate defines a first hole portion and a second hole portion. The connector includes a terminal of a pressfit shape that is inserted into the first holed portion to connect with the substrate electrically, and a housing having a leg portion of a press fit shape that is inserted into the second hole portion when the terminal is inserted into the first hole portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventors: Hiromichi Watanabe, Yoshifumi Fukatsu, Yasuo Nishioka
  • Patent number: 7249958
    Abstract: A male housing (30) has a hood (32) and a rib (45) that projects forward in the hood (32). A moving plate (50) is disposed movably in the hood (32) and an insertion hole (62) is formed on a body (51) of the moving plate (50) for receiving the rib (45). Guide walls (64, 65) are formed on the periphery of the insertion hole (62). The moving plate (50) is pressed into the hood (32) from an initial position by a female housing (10). Peripheral sides of the moving plate (50) are guided by the hood (32) and peripheral surfaces of the rib (45) slide in contact with the guide walls (64, 65) to prevent the moving plate (50) from shaking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiyuki Ishikawa, Yoshio Okura
  • Patent number: 7249959
    Abstract: An electronic device, an accessory for an electronic device and a support element. The support element (15) is arranged to support the connection between an accessory connector (5) of the electronic device (1) and a connector (13) of the accessory (6). The support element (15) is fitted either to the electronic device (1) or to the accessory for the electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Nokia Corporation
    Inventors: Juha-Pekka Pettersson, Kari Lehtinen
  • Patent number: 7249960
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a contact safety device for pin-and-socket connectors that is suited for use between a primer for airbags and a control unit of a motor vehicle, whereby a protective element in the contact safety device is provided to prevent spurious releases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Amphenol-Tuchel Electronics GmbH
    Inventors: Alfred Annecke, Hans-Ulrich Mueller
  • Patent number: 7249961
    Abstract: A jack assembly and method for electrically coupling a jack assembly to a plurality of wires. At least some of the illustrative embodiments are jack assemblies comprising a first portion, a second portion hingedly coupled to the first portion, and a wire guide configured to detachably couple within an internal cavity defined by the first and second portions (the wire guide defining an aperture, wherein the aperture is configured to receive a plurality of wires). The jack assembly is configured to electrically couple to the plurality of wires when the first portion is closed onto the second portion by way of the hinged coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Direct Connect
    Inventor: Charles J. Provenzano
  • Patent number: 7249962
    Abstract: A connector assembly for interconnecting an end of a cable comprising one or more twisted pair conductors, each of the conductors enveloped in an insulating covering, with the bifurcated contacts of a connecting block. The assembly comprises an insulated housing and a plurality of non-contacting conductive terminals disposed in the housing. Each of the terminals comprises a blade exposed along a front face of the housing and adapted to be inserted into one of the bifurcated contacts, and a piercing mechanism comprising at least one tooth. Each of the conductors is terminated by one of the terminals, the teeth puncturing the insulated covering of a free end of the conductor thereby bringing the terminal into conductive contact with the conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Belden CDT (Canada) Inc.
    Inventors: Luc Milette, Michel Bohbot
  • Patent number: 7249963
    Abstract: The invention relates to a screwless connection terminal having a contact part having a connection section to which a conductor can be electrically connected, a clamping spring, a metallic frame which surrounds the clamping spring and is designed to be inserted into insulating housing means of an electrical apparatus, and an actuating element for the clamping spring, the frame also at least partially accommodating the connection section, and the clamping spring in accordance with one embodiment having a leg for the purpose of moving the frame in relation to and transverse to the connection section in order to clamp the conductor to be connected between the frame and the connection section, a blocking device in a blocking position holding the frame in a position in which the clamping spring is prestressed, and the actuating element being in the form of a release device, which is capable of releasing the blocking position for the frame in order to bring the leg into action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Bals Elektrotechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Andreas Ramm
  • Patent number: 7249964
    Abstract: A device for providing strain relief between an electrical connector and a wiring harness having wires or cables already joined to the contacts of the connector includes a T-shaped plate having axial and transverse members and a pair of opposing, inwardly facing, U-shaped structures disposed at opposite ends of the transverse member and extending at a right angle to the plate from a front edge thereof. The device is mounted on the connector with the U-shaped structures respectively straddling a corresponding mounting flange of the connector and a distal end portion of the axial member extending rearward over a portion of the harness extending rearward from the connector. The two rearward extending portions of the plate and harness are cinched together with a strap or the like. The device can be installed after the harness has been assembled without the need to remove the wires or contacts from the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Edward K. Hoffman, Brian J. Hupf
  • Patent number: 7249965
    Abstract: The DC motor of the starter includes first and second field coils, an armature coil series-connected to one ends of the first and second field coils through a brush device, a connector bar to which other ends of the first and second field coils are connected, a motor lead joined to a joint point of the connector bar at one end thereof, and an electromagnetic switch operative to connect the other end of the motor lead to a battery. The connector bar is made of steel, the other end of the first field coil is connected to a first connection point in the connector bar, and the other end of the second field coil is connected to a second connection point. The distance between the joint point and the second connection point is longer than a distance between the joint point and the first connection point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Youichi Hasegawa, Yoshinori Yamaguchi, Hisato Inoue
  • Patent number: 7249966
    Abstract: A small size connector has an insulative housing and two edge card-receiving slots disposed in a stacked arrangement with in the connector housing. Each slot receives an edge card of an electronic module therein. The slots support conductive terminals that extend from a plurality of individual terminal assemblies. The terminal assemblies include clip members that engage an opposing shoulder formed on the interior of the connector housing. The front face of the connector is provided with various engagement openings that receive engagement members of light pipe assemblies and shielding assemblies, so that when assembled, the connector, shield, terminal assemblies and light pipes all act as a single, integrated component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventor: Jerry A. Long
  • Patent number: 7249967
    Abstract: An attachment for a light string having sockets for respectively receiving therein bulb assemblies and wires extending out of the sockets includes a body. The body of the attachment has a through hole defined through the body and a fastener slot defined in the body. A cord is able to extend into the through hole and is fastened in the fastener slot. The cord is held securely in the body of the attachment of each socket so when a force acts on the Christmas light string, the Christmas light string has enough strength not to break.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventor: Wei-Jen Tseng
  • Patent number: 7249968
    Abstract: Apparatuses are provided which basically comprise a socket which has at least two contiguous passages formed therein which are adapted to receive exposed wire and/or insulated wire. Bonding materials and crimp joints, alone or in combination, are provided to further secure the assemblies. In one embodiment, electrical connection assemblies are provided, which comprise an electrically conductive wire encapsulated by a sheath of insulating material, the insulating sheath having a first end, a first portion of the wire extending beyond the first end of the insulated sheath; and a socket having first and second contiguous passages formed therein, the first passage being of larger diameter than the second passage, the first portion of the wire being disposed in the second passage, the first end of the insulating sheath being disposed in the first passage. In other embodiments, the assemblies further comprise electrically conductive bonding material disposed in the first and second passages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Inventors: Douglas J. Fish, Carl Allison Perry, William Evans Turner, Mark Ellsworth Wassell
  • Patent number: 7249969
    Abstract: An electrical connector for coaxial cable having a corrugated solid outer conductor. The connector formed with a body having a bore with a retaining shoulder. An insert with a plurality of segment(s) having inward projecting projections arranged to mesh with the corrugated solid outer conductor. The segment(s) joined by at least one hinge member(s); the insert bendable along the hinge member(s) to fit within the bore, abutting the retaining shoulder. An interface is attachable to a connector end of the body. The interface having an inward projecting outer conductor stop. By exchanging the insert, the connector may be used with a range of cables having different outer conductor corrugation configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Andrew Corporation
    Inventor: Jeffrey D Paynter