Patents Issued in September 25, 2007
  • Patent number: 7272964
    Abstract: A latch assembly having a latch housing and handle that are substantially or near flush with the surrounding outer surface of the door in which they are mounted when the latch assembly is in its closed position. The latch assembly utilizes a locking cylinder as a push-button mechanism in order to release at least a portion of the handle, which then pivots to an extended position where it can be grasped and turned by an operator. A spindle and latching pawl are slidably connected to the handle and bound by a camming surface in the latch housing so that the spindle and latching pawl moves both axially and rotationally at the same time so that, upon closing, the pawl will cinch down on the frame to create a tight closure between the door and frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: S.P.E.P. Acquisition Corp.
    Inventors: Roderick Graham, Rodolfo A. Linares, George N. Alvarado
  • Patent number: 7272965
    Abstract: A method and assembly for preventing unauthorized manipulation of common cylinder locks, as executed by use of the principles of the Bumpkey or Blowgun methods. The pin assembly, containing a tumbler pin and a driver pin, is adapted so as to alter linear displacement thereof, by forming a recession in one of the pins contained in the pin assembly, and an engagement element, in the other of the pins, for engaging the recession, such that when an impact-driven blow of a given intensity is applied so as to linearly displace the tumbler and driver pins, the pin engagement element engages the pin recession, strongly binding the tumbler and driver pins together, thereby, blocking the shear line and, consequently, preventing unauthorized manipulation of the common cylinder lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: Moshe Dolev
  • Patent number: 7272966
    Abstract: An entry guide for a roll forming machine having fixed stop members for the different widths of sheet metal material which can be accommodated by the roll forming machine. The fixed stop members are offset in the vertical direction. Accordingly, when the roll forming machine is adapted to accommodate a different width of sheet metal material, there is no need to adjust the entry guide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Englert, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Gorski, Terrance J. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7272967
    Abstract: A subliner for use in a metal extrusion press, the subliner comprising an elongate annular body having an outer surface dimensioned for placement within an outer mantle, and an inner surface dimensioned to receive an inner liner. The subliner further comprises at least one heating element positioned longitudinally between the outer and inner surfaces of the elongate annular body for providing heat in at least one selected region of the subliner, in close proximity to the inner liner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: Paul Robbins
  • Patent number: 7272968
    Abstract: The configuration comprises a shaping member 3 having a substantially rectangular shape and shaping the inner surface side of a bent portion 1b, a worm gear 2 slidably linked with the shaping member 3 and gradually reducing the distance between the shaping members 3 for sequentially feeding the shaping member 3 from one side to the other side, and a reference member 4 arranged so that the upper end surface of the bent portion 1b comes into contact with its reference surface, and the distance between the shaping members 3 is gradually reduced to a predetermined fin pitch and the upper end surface of the bent portion 1b is shaped into a predetermined shape by rotating the worm gear 2 after the plurality of bent portions 1b are arranged at the shaping members 3. Due to this, it is possible to shape the bent portion into a continuous and stable shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Shizuo Maruo, Yukinori Hatano, Fumiaki Nakamura, Haruo Nagai
  • Patent number: 7272969
    Abstract: An apparatus for testing abrasion and a test method for testing the frictional wear characteristics of materials and parts even when a lubricant is used. The abrasion and test method enables reliable abrasion tests to be carried out in which good conformity with the sliding characteristics in actual pieces of equipment can be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company
    Inventors: Kenichi Shinohara, Teisuke Bushimata
  • Patent number: 7272970
    Abstract: A spark plug having a combustion pressure detecting function, including a tip end portion in an axial direction of the spark plug capable of generating a spark discharge, a male thread adapted for attaching the spark plug to an internal combustion engine and a metal shell including, at a rear end side of the male thread, a brim portion projecting perpendicularly to the axial direction; an annular, flat gasket provided on a tip side of the brim portion; and a pressure sensor including a pressure-sensitive element, wherein the gasket has a Young's modulus E (kN/mm2) satisfying a relationship, 100?E?170.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: NGK Spark Plug Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Keiji Ozeki, Koji Okazaki
  • Patent number: 7272971
    Abstract: The present invention provides a quick-connect pressure test apparatus. The apparatus includes a test plug having a set of sealing rings extending around a sidewall thereof for fitting within an inner diameter of a pipe. The test plug has a first end having a receiving cavity in communication with a central lumen that extends through the test plug to a second end thereof. A retainer is configured to sit on an end section of the pipe, having a plurality of retaining arms flexibly extending about an outer diameter of the pipe. A slide compressor is configured to receive the retainer within a cylindrical cavity, urging the retaining arms to frictionally engage the outer diameter of the pipe and maintain the test plug within the pipe. A plug handle or, alternatively, a pressure coupler may be received in the receiving cavity of the test plug.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventors: Cory Reimer, Duane Reimer, John Dorn
  • Patent number: 7272972
    Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring a thickness of a film in motion. The apparatus comprises a roller for receiving and supporting the film in motion, the roller being adapted to rotate about an axis of rotation. The apparatus also comprises a position detector for detecting when the roller is in a specific angular position as the roller rotates about the axis of rotation. The apparatus further comprises a measurement unit aligned with a specific portion of the roller and coupled to the position detector. The measurement unit is responsive to a detection of the roller being in the specific angular position to measure the thickness of the film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Avestor Limited Partnership
    Inventor: Dave Lessard
  • Patent number: 7272973
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for evaluating subsurface earth oil and gas formations. More particularly, methods and systems are provided for determining reservoir properties such as reservoir transmissibilities and average reservoir pressures of a formation layer or multiple layers using fracture-injection/falloff test methods. The methods herein may use pressure falloff data generated by the introduction of an injection fluid at a pressure above the formation fracture pressure in conjunction with a fracture-injection/falloff test model to analyze reservoir properties. The fracture-injection/falloff test model recognizes that a new induced fracture creates additional storage volume in the formation and that a fracture-injection/falloff test in a layer may exhibit variable storage during the pressure falloff, and a change in storage may be observed at hydraulic fracture closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Halliburton Energy Services, Inc.
    Inventor: David P. Craig
  • Patent number: 7272974
    Abstract: A capacitance type physical quantity sensor includes a sensor chip and a circuit chip. The sensor chip includes: a support substrate; a semiconductor layer; a movable electrode; and a fixed electrode. The sensor chip is stacked on the circuit chip such that the movable electrode and the fixed electrode face the circuit chip. The movable electrode has a thickness in a stacking direction. The sensor chip has a first distance between the movable electrode and the circuit chip and a second distance between the movable electrode and the support substrate. The thickness of the movable electrode is larger than the first distance and the second distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Keisuke Goto
  • Patent number: 7272975
    Abstract: An ultrasonic beam shaping device includes a plate-like beam shaping element formed of opaque material. The beam shaping element has first and second conical surfaces, with a common axis, formed as opposite surface portions of the beam shaping element. A cylindrical aperture is formed in the beam shaping element along the common axis of the first and second conical surfaces such that the cylindrical aperture is also co-axial with the conical surfaces and passes through the conical surfaces. The beam shaping element thus has a circular open end at each conical surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Bayer Healthcare LLC
    Inventors: Jo-Ana Quirch, Nicolae Dumitrescu, Luigi Cantatore
  • Patent number: 7272976
    Abstract: A pressure gauge includes a diaphragm having a substantially rigid outer portion and a displaceable inner portion that displaces in response to a pressure difference between first and second sides of the diaphragm. The pressure gauge further includes a sensor located proximate to the diaphragm and adapted to sense the displacement of the diaphragm inner portion. The pressure gauge further includes a monitor and control system coupled to the sensor (wired or wireless), and adapted to determine the pressure difference from the displacement of the diaphragm. The sensor and the monitor and control system can be implemented with one or more optical sensing designs, capacitive sensing designs, or other devices used to measure sub-micron displacements. For low pressure applications, such as lithography applications, the diaphragm is sensitive to pressure changes in a range of approximately 0.1 to 0.5 inches of water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: ASML Holdings N.V.
    Inventors: Boguslaw Gajdeczko, Kevin J. Violette
  • Patent number: 7272977
    Abstract: A dual gauge assembly. In an exemplary embodiment, the dual gauge assembly includes a housing. Further, a display face is disposed within the housing for displaying a pressure range. In addition, an indicating device is disposed within the housing for indicating pressure for at least two different pressure sources. Moreover, at least two ports are coupled to the housing for pneumatically coupling the at least two different pressure sources to the indicator assembly. The indicating device provides a visual indication of the at least two different pressure sources within the single housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Nathan L. Coleman
  • Patent number: 7272978
    Abstract: A magnetic-inductive flow meter with a measuring tube, which can be fitted into a pipeline system by using flange portions at the ends, with at least two measuring electrodes that are fitted into the wall of the measuring tube opposite each other in an electrically isolated manner and are intended for sensing a measuring voltage, a magnet unit, which is likewise arranged on the outside of the measuring tube, generating a magnetic field that is aligned substantially perpendicularly in relation to the direction of flow of the conductive flow medium to be measured, and the measuring tube being provided on the inside with means for the electric isolation of the measuring electrodes from the measuring tube, the means for the electric isolation taking the form of a thin inner coating of the measuring tube, the layer thickness of which lies in the range of 0.1-500 ?m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: ABB Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Dieter Keese, Klaus Schaefer, Rainer Strutzberg
  • Patent number: 7272979
    Abstract: A seat belt tension sensor for measuring the amount of tension in a vehicle seat belt. The seat belt tension sensor has a housing and an anchor plate that is mounted in the housing. The housing moves relative to the anchor plate. A magnet is affixed to the anchor plate. A sensor is mounted to the housing. The sensor generates an electrical signal in response to relative movement between the housing and the anchor plate. The electrical signal changes in proportion to the amount of tension on the seat belt. A spring is mounted between the housing and the anchor plate. The spring biases the housing from the anchor plate. An integral connector extends from the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: CTS Corporation
    Inventor: Murray Kaijala
  • Patent number: 7272980
    Abstract: A method of using an aseptic sampling arrangement. The sampling arrangement includes a septum cartridge and a securing element for use with a fluid enclosure. A locking arrangement is provided to allow selective access to the septum cartridge and the securing element. The sampling arrangement further includes a needle, a tube, and a collection bag. The sampling arrangement can be used to monitor the quality of a fluid product. The method of monitoring includes obtaining a fluid product sample from the fluid enclosure within the collection bag. The collection bag is then incubated for a period of time during which oxygen permeates the bag to simulate post-pasteurizing conditions and/or pre-pasteurizing conditions of the fluid product. The method further includes monitoring the level of contamination detected within the fluid product sample.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: Darrell Lee Bigalke
  • Patent number: 7272981
    Abstract: An aseptic sampling arrangement that provides selective access to an interior of a fluid enclosure. The sampling arrangement includes a septum cartridge and a securing element for use with the fluid enclosure. A locking arrangement is provided to allow selective access to the septum cartridge and the securing element. The locking arrangement includes a base, a cover, and a locking device that secures the cover in relation to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: Darrell Lee Bigalke
  • Patent number: 7272982
    Abstract: Methods and systems for measuring and gathering data relating to publication usage by participants in publication readership studies. Some methods and systems employ portable monitors carried by participants of the studies along with publications fitted with various devices, such as piezoelectric transducers, RFID tags and others devices and circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Arbitron Inc.
    Inventors: Alan R. Neuhauser, James M. Jensen, Jack C. Crystal, Jack K. Zhang, Daniel W. Pugh, Douglas J. Visnius, Eugene L. Flanagan, III
  • Patent number: 7272983
    Abstract: A probe-holder armature contains a sensor probe that is removably arranged in the forward portion of an immersion tube which is axially movable in a housing between a retracted rest position and a deployed working position. The sensor probe in its installed condition forms a medium-tight closure of the immersion tube. The immersion tube contains a removable insert which can be held in a fixed position by means of a closure member. By means of the insert, the sensor probe in its installed position is pushed forward against a forward stop of the immersion tube. A safety device prevents an axial movement of the immersion tube out of its rest position if one or more of the three components sensor probe, insert and closure member are missing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Mettler-Toledo AG
    Inventor: Daniel Caderas
  • Patent number: 7272984
    Abstract: An electronic appliance holding device includes two slide plates which are respectively engaged with two gear sets which are matched with each other so that the two slide plates are able to move in opposite directions to adjust the space to hold the electronic appliance. An operation member has a pawl end and a pushing end, wherein the pawl end is engaged with the first gear set to stop rotation of the first gear set and when the pushing end is pushed by the user, the pawl end is disengaged from the first gear set. A cover is mounted on top of the base and a frame is mounted on the cover with a gap defined therebetween for receiving therein a picture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: Eagle Fan
  • Patent number: 7272985
    Abstract: A countershaft-type transmission device has an input central shaft and an input hollow shaft and two powershift elements. One first half of the powershift elements is in connection with one drive unit and a second half of the powershift elements is connected with the input central shaft or the input hollow shaft. The input central shaft, the input hollow shaft and countershafts are supported in one housing and connected with gear wheels, which are engaged with each other by pairs and can be connected and disconnected to produce a transmission total ratio in the power flow. The input central shaft is supported in the housing via a first bearing device and the drive unit is supported via a second bearing device on a shaft connected with a drive unit, the input hollow shaft being supported on the input central shaft via a third bearing device and a fourth bearing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Jens Patzner
  • Patent number: 7272986
    Abstract: A transaxle for a vehicle includes a first input shaft having a first speed drive gear, a third speed drive gear, and a reverse drive gear; and a second input shaft having a second speed drive gear. An output shaft has a first speed driven gear engaged with the first speed drive gear, a second speed driven gear engaged with the second speed drive gear, a third speed driven gear engaged with the third speed drive gear, a reverse driven gear, and a pinion adapted to engage with a differential. A reverse idler shaft has an idler input gear engaged with the reverse drive gear and an idler output gear, axially spaced from and rotationally fixed to the idler input gear and engaged with the reverse driven gear. Synchronizers selectively connect the first and second input shafts to the output shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: David Janson
  • Patent number: 7272987
    Abstract: A powertrain system is provided that includes a first prime mover and change-gear transmission having a first input shaft and a second input shaft. A twin clutch is disposed between the first prime mover and the transmission. The twin clutch includes a first main clutch positioned between the first prime mover and the first input shaft and a second main clutch positioned between the first prime mover and the second input shaft. The powertrain system also includes a second prime mover operably connected to one of the first and second input shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas A. Hughes
  • Patent number: 7272988
    Abstract: A shift knob (1) for a gearshift lever (3) of an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle has a locking bar (5) guided axially in the gearshift lever (3) and a release button (2) which can be actuated manually for actuating the locking bar (5) in relation to the gearshift lever (3). The release button (2) is arranged in the shift knob (1) at the top end of the gearshift lever (3). The release button (2) is connected to the shift knob (1) by means of at least one lever arm (16) via a mounting site (17). The length of the lever arm (16) of the release button (2) is selected such in relation to the path traveled by the release button (2) during the actuation that the release button (2) performs an essentially linear movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: ZF Lemförder Metallwaren AG
    Inventors: Jörg Meyer, Klemens Meyer, Jan Szekeres-Kriselius
  • Patent number: 7272989
    Abstract: A steering shaft bearing assembly (100) for a vehicle having a steering shaft (102). The steering shaft bearing assembly includes a bearing (108) having a bore (112) adapted to receive the steering shaft and a support body (120) having an outer surface (124) and a passageway (126) passing through the support body. The bearing is at least partially disposed in the passageway so as to be suspended by the support body in the passageway in a predetermined position. The support body comprises a flexible material for permitting the bearing to move from the predetermined position. About 50% or more of the outer surface of the support body is free of a rigid support structure for restricting movement of the support body when coupled to the vehicle during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: PACCAR Inc
    Inventor: Steven John Schuh
  • Patent number: 7272990
    Abstract: An automatic multiple-gear transmission, in particular a power-bifurcated auxiliary transmission for motor vehicles, is described, in which several power paths are provided in a transmission housing (24) between a transmission input shaft (3) and a transmission output shaft (4) for the shifting of gears. The gears are presented with several conversion devices (8, 9, 10) that can be hooked up via control elements (5, 6, 7) into a power flow. At least one of the conversion devices (8, 9, 10) is located at least partially in a transmission housing (24) in such a way that the radial and tangential forces can be transmitted directly to the housing when the conversion device (8, 9) is hooked up.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Gerhard Gumpoltsberger, Michael Preuss
  • Patent number: 7272991
    Abstract: A subassembly for a shaving razor that includes a plurality of elongated metal blades that are secured to each other as an integral unit. The plural blades have cutting edges defining a shaving surface, and are secured to each other by weld connections at their respective longitudinal ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: The Gillette Company
    Inventors: Gregory D. Aviza, Robert A. Trotta, Charles B. Worrick
  • Patent number: 7272992
    Abstract: Cork-screw with double propping lever, with an adjacent extraction cork-screw, in which the double propping lever presents a first base lever hinged which one end to the handle of the tool, and a second extension lever for the propping hinged at the end of said first base lever, whereby said second extension lever for the propping presents two propping support teeth, one support teeth at the end and one support teeth close to its articulation to the print base lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventors: Daniele Farfalli, Gianluigi Fortunato
  • Patent number: 7272993
    Abstract: A tool for removing a cap from a pest control device, such as a termite control device. The tool comprises fingers extending generally parallel to one another adapted for frictionally engaging a side edge of the cap. The fingers define a socket for receiving the cap. The socket is slightly smaller than the cap so that engagement of the fingers with the cap induces the fingers to move with respect to the cap to increase the size of the socket. Movement of the fingers induces frictional engagement of the fingers with the cap. Stops extending laterally inwardly in the socket from the fingers are adapted for engaging a top surface of the cap transverse to the side edge of the cap. The fingers and stops cooperate to orient the cap with respect to the tool. The tool may further comprise an extension extending from the tool for manipulating the tool from a remote location. The tool may otherwise include a handle for grasping the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Whitmire Micro-Gen Research Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: Lee M. White, Jonathan D. Berger, Steven R. Sims
  • Patent number: 7272994
    Abstract: A grasping device comprises a grasping member springably connected to a handle member. When the grasping member is withdrawn from the handle member, plier arms on the grasping member open so that an object to be grasped may be positioned therebetween. When the grasping member is permitted to be pulled by the spring back into the handle member, the plier arms close about the object, grasping it securely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: Jerry L. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7272995
    Abstract: A carpenter's hammer wherein the handle portion is telescopic using two slidably mating tubes. Two optimal preset positions are made possible by means of a dual spring-nipple. At the 14.5? stop, the jig hammer can be used to jig the position between studs for 16? on center. At the 16? stop, the jig hammer can be used to mark stud locations on wall plates prior to nailing, as well as to locate studs once panel board covers these studs. A built-in safety bar serves as a positional stop, and also to prevent separation of the two telescopic handle portions. A pencil holder at the extremity of the handle portion positions a pencil through the handle in such a manner as to allow marking at the very end of said hammer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: W. H. Douglas Mavin
  • Patent number: 7272996
    Abstract: A spanner socket for application with conventional hand tools such as ratchet drivers and fixed wrenches employed for imparting torque to a work piece about an axis of rotation includes a generally cylindrical shaped base member which defines a predetermined number of engagement surfaces which are circumferentially arranged around the axis of rotation. The engagement surfaces are employed for releasably coupling with the associated hand tool. Two or more elongated drive pins are carried by the base member for rotation therewith about said axis of rotation. Each drive pin defines an axis of elongation, which is parallel to the axis of rotation and spaced from the axis of rotation for engagement with the work piece for the application of torque thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: James Matthew Pontieri
  • Patent number: 7272997
    Abstract: A floatable hand tool includes a shank having an inner wall formed with an axially extending through hole, and a tool tip mounted on an end of the shank and having an end portion provided with a protruding connecting rod inserted into the through hole of the shank so that the through hole of the shank forms a closed chamber. Thus, the floatable hand tool floats on the water level by the floating force produced by the closed chamber the through hole of the shank. In addition, the floatable hand tool floats on the water level, thereby preventing the floatable hand tool from being missed when falling into the water, and thereby facilitating a user operating the floatable hand tool in the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventors: Yu-Jyun Lee, Yu-Hao Lee
  • Patent number: 7272998
    Abstract: A torque-limiting mechanism is provided for use in a variety of torque-applying tools. The mechanism includes a handle defining a housing in which are disposed a slip gear and a fixed gear. The fixed gear is attached to the housing while the slip gear is attached to drive body extending outwardly from the housing and engageable with an item to be turned utilizing the tool. The slip gear and the fixed gear are connected by ball bearings disposed within recesses located on each gear that are pressed into the recesses by a force exerted on the gears by a number of spring members disposed between an enclosed end of the housing and the fixed gear. The amount of force exerted by the springs on the gears can be varied as necessary, thereby allowing the amount of torque required to enable the slip gear to move with respect to the fixed gear to be set where desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Inventor: Michael T. Gauthier
  • Patent number: 7272999
    Abstract: A torque-limiting driver includes a housing, a shaft carried by the housing for rotation relative thereto and having a workpiece-engaging tip projecting from the housing, a torque-limiting mechanism coupled between the housing and the shaft and responsive to rotation of the housing in a predetermined direction to rotate the shaft at torques below a predetermined torque and accommodating rotation of the housing relative to the shaft at said predetermined torque and above, a torque-determining structure disposed in the housing and movable relative to the torque-limiting mechanism for adjusting the predetermined torque, and the housing including a stop portion engageable with the torque-determining structure for preventing torque-adjusting movement thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Snap-on Incorporated
    Inventors: Brian Cutler, Charles P. Davis, Tony Zlatko Kurtovic, legal representative, Jay J. Kurtovic, deceased
  • Patent number: 7273000
    Abstract: A rotary microtome (1) is disclosed, having a base part (2) on which a microtome housing (4) and a knife holder (6) are arranged. Also provided is a collection element (8) that surrounds the knife holder on three sides, the collection element having a U-shaped base outline. Also provided are several clamping levers that are associated with the knife holder, at least one clamping lever for the knife holder being arranged operably on a first or a second outer side wall (18a, 18b). In addition, the bottom (12) of the collection element (8) has shaped on it an elevation (22) under which a mechanical coupling is guided from the clamping lever (10c) to the knife holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Leica Microsystems Nussloch GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Thiem, Roland Walter, Rolf Metzner
  • Patent number: 7273001
    Abstract: A modular launch-cell system for a launch vehicle. The method includes a number of launch-cells, a base and an upper attachment arrangement. The launch-cells include a missile and are arranged in a structure which includes a number of layers, each of the layer includes two or more launch cells. The launch-cells are substantially directly reversibly mechanically connected to the base. One of the launch-cells includes a lower attachment arrangement configured for reversibly mechanically connecting one launch-cell to one or more of the base and another of the launch-cells disposed below the one launch-cell. The upper arrangement is designed for reversibly mechanically connecting one launch-cell to another of the launch-cells disposed above the one launch-cell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Rafael-Armament Development Authority Ltd.
    Inventor: Ehud Dekel
  • Patent number: 7273002
    Abstract: A device and method for increasing the rate of the firing cycle of a semi-automatic firearm includes a base that is adapted to support any one of a variety of semi-automatic firearms. The base includes a trigger extension with a grip, a slide mount, and a slide housed within the slide mount. At least the receiver, barrel, and trigger assembly of the firearm are secured to the base so that they may move as a single unit upon the base between a rearward position upon discharge of the firearm and a forward position. A biasing means continuously biases the receiver, barrel, and trigger assembly upon the base toward the forward position to effect successive discharges of the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: AW-SIM, LLC
    Inventor: Steve Rogers
  • Patent number: 7273003
    Abstract: A plunger pump, includes: a plunger pump unit including a pump chamber and a plunger for pressing a hydraulic fluid in the pump chamber to perform a discharging operation of the hydraulic fluid; a motor; and a cam portion driven by the motor to rotate and press the plunger. The cam portion has at least two discharge regions for pressing the plunger and a suction region formed between the discharge region. The plunger performs the discharging operation two times or more by one rotation of the cam portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Nissin Kogyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jun Yamashita, Tomohide Tanaka, Atsushi Shimizu, Naotoshi Tamai, Motoyasu Nakamura
  • Patent number: 7273004
    Abstract: The radial piston or reciprocating engine (1) has annularly juxtaposed, radially directed piston-cylinder units (2, 3). The outward stroke of the pistons (2) is controlled by the cam (11) of a common eccentric shaft (12), whereas the inward stroke thereof is controlled by a control ring (16), which engages in a lateral recess (17) of each piston (2) running in the direction of a secant and adapted to a cross-sectional shape of the control ring (16). The recess (17) is then bounded by a base wall of the piston (2) with which the control ring (16) is in controlling sliding contact via an inner control face (20). The pistons (2) are hollow and carry on their face the diaphragm of a diaphragm valve. Thus, the reciprocating engine (1) has a particularly compact construction and can be highly loaded, so that it is particularly suitable as a compressor of a CO2 vehicle air conditioning system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignees: Luk Fahrzeug-Hydraulik GmbH & Co. KG, Visteon Global Technologies, Inc., Obrist Engineering GmbH
    Inventor: Peter Kuhn
  • Patent number: 7273005
    Abstract: A coffee grinder assembly for a coffee machine comprises two coaxially arranged grinding wheels. One of the grinding wheels is driven by an electric motor, and the other one is stationary. For receiving the grinding wheels, two grinding wheel support members are provided. Each grinding wheel is provided with radially extending protrusions, and each grinding wheel support member is provided with corresponding recesses to form a bayonet closure. By such a design, the provision of connecting bores in the grinding wheels can be avoided, resulting in an enlarged effective grinding surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Saeco IPR Limited
    Inventor: Mariano Turi
  • Patent number: 7273006
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for embossing the sidewalls of heavy gauge sheet metal containers involves clamping over a top edge of an opening into the container using a press carrying complementary embossing dies. The clamping apparatus can be a portable punch press having opposite members on a solid C-shaped frame, one being movable by a hydraulic drive cylinder to bear against the other. The die set coupled to the clamping apparatus has opposite protrusions and depressions representing an indicia to be embossed on the container, such as a trademark, symbol, owner's name or other indicia. In one embodiment the container is a dumping refuse container with an opening edge reinforced by a frame. The press has an opening throat that spaces the dies sufficiently that the clamping apparatus can be clamped over the reinforced edge to space the point of deformation of the sheet metal from the edge of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Wastequip, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Rasmussen, Steven N. David
  • Patent number: 7273007
    Abstract: A portable printer coater for use with a printing press includes: a counter for indicating wear on seal components, a system for installing and removing the coater without lifting, and a tensioner for improving lifetime of seals in the chambered doctor. The counter records operating time or revolutions and provides an output indicating consumed lifespan or remaining lifespan. A split catwalk is provided on a press and rollers are provided on the printer coater to facilitate moving the printer coater into engagement with the press. A cart is used to move the printer coater adjacent the press and rails are used to move the printer coater from the cart onto the catwalk. One adjustable tensioner is positioned to apply force to the center of the chambered doctor and reduced wear on seal components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Printing Research, Inc.
    Inventors: Howard W. DeMoore, Ron Rendleman
  • Patent number: 7273008
    Abstract: The invention concerns an installation comprising means controlling printing quality supplied by a printed sheet feeding device. Downstream, printing means print serial numbers and/or affix other elements. The quality of the number printing is controlled by a control device. A transfer device transports the sheets to a stock of three stacks one of which collects the defective sheets. A marking device affix a mark on the sheets considered unsuitable during the quality control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: KBA-Giori S.A.
    Inventors: Fausto Giori, Johannes Georg Schaede
  • Patent number: 7273009
    Abstract: A hand stamp includes a first marking structure having a front surface adapted to print a first ink onto an object, a rear surface and peripheral edges extending between the front and rear surfaces. The hand stamp includes a second marking structure having a front surface adapted to print a second ink onto an object, a rear surface and peripheral edges extending between the front and rear surfaces of the second marking structure. The first and second marking structures are permanently assembled together so that at least one of the edges of the first marking structure opposes at least one of the edges of the second marking structure, whereby at least one of the opposing edges has a non-porous surface for preventing migration of the first ink of the first marking structure with the second ink of the second marking structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: M&R Marking Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Doogong Yip
  • Patent number: 7273010
    Abstract: An impact part on a projectile permits the activation of detonation systems within a large angular range of contact with a target. The impact part is provided with annular recesses with embedded circular rings that engage with the target and prevent the projectile from rebounding. A thin-walled, dome-shaped tip prevents relatively large disruptive effects upon the projectile's hollow charge. As a result of dimensioning the impact part in accordance with the rules of fracture mechanics, it is possible to achieve a desired fragmentation on the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Saab Bofors Dynamics Switzerland Ltd.
    Inventor: Josef Bissig
  • Patent number: 7273011
    Abstract: A projectile casing is designed to insure proper operation of the charges located therein. The charges are spaced by spacer tubes constructed such that the tubes are dispersed radially after the detonation of the preliminary charge without adversely affecting the effect of the following main charge by shock waves and/or vibrations. Solid shock barriers and damping members are provided in addition to a thin-walled projectile casing. Such a construction has proved successful, in particular, for tandem hollow charges, and also for use against active armour plating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Saab Bofors Dynamics Switzerland Ltd
    Inventor: Josef Bissig
  • Patent number: 7273012
    Abstract: A projectile for a large caliber gun including a fall-back preventer ring disposed within a fall-back preventer recess defined by the projectile. The fall-back preventer ring engaging the barrel of the large caliber gun during a loading cycle and releasing from the barrel when the projectile is fired. The fall-back preventer ring is a multifaceted split ring device sized for both axial and radial movement within the fall back preventer recess. The present invention thus maintains the projectile safely within the barrel during loading and in the presence of other external forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: BAE Systems Land & Armaments L.P.
    Inventor: Timothy E. Melody
  • Patent number: 7273014
    Abstract: The invention relates to plastic pallets that pass the Underwriters Laboratory UL 2335 protocol for pallets wherein said pallets comprises at least one resin selected from the group consisting of: (a) polyphenylene ether resin and blends containing polyphenylene ether resin, (b) polycarbonate resin and blends containing polycarbonate resin, (c) vinyl aromatic graft copolymer resin; (d) polyetherimide resin and blends containing polyetherimide resin, and (e) thermosetting resins. In a preferred embodiment, the plastic pallet has an open deck design. The invention also relates to a method to make pallets that pass the UL 2335 protocol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Adeyinka Adedeji, Geoffrey Henry Riding, Bruce Marshall Torrey