Patents Issued in October 2, 2007
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Patent number: 7275951Abstract: The present invention is to provide a connector which is not subjected to an excess force when a locking securing unit is operated to remove engagement. The connector includes a male housing, a locking arm for engaging with a locking projection of a mating connector, a locking securing unit, and deformation switching portions. The locking securing unit is movably disposed between a regulation position to regulate a resilient deformation of the locking arm and an allowance position to allow the resilient deformation thereof. The deformation switching portions have a first interfering portion disposed on the locking arm and a second interfering portion disposed on the locking securing unit. When the locking securing unit is in the allowance position, the first and second interfering portions interfere each other and the locking arm resiliently deforms to remove engagement with the locking projection.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Yoshinori Shigeta, Akihiro Tsuruta, Hiromasa Kubota, Atsushi Nishida, Masato Minakata, Hiroshi Kobayashi
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Patent number: 7275952Abstract: A hinged electrical connector is disclosed. The connector includes an arcuate lid portion and an arcuate connector housing portion hingedly attached to the lid portion. The lid portion includes a wire alignment structure to retain one or more wires in a compact fashion and the connector housing portion has at least one electrically conductive contact retained in it to engage the wires retained in the wire alignment structure. The lid and connector housing close to an operative position to form an electrical connector that can be passed through standard electrical panel knock-outs and which is also resistant to snagging.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Tyco Electronics CorporationInventor: David James Fabian
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Patent number: 7275953Abstract: A wire comb for mounting individual wires from multi-wire cables onto circuit boards that is mounted adjacent one or more ends of a circuit board to permit the individual wires to be spaced apart yet held in place during an over molding process; and to permit connecting the wires to the appropriate connections on the circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Avocent CorporationInventors: Steven F. Brown, Robert V. Seifert, Jr., Philip M. Kirshtein
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Patent number: 7275954Abstract: In a connector including first and second contacts to be connected to a connection object and a housing holding the first and the second contacts, an actuator has a cam movable with respect to the housing between a connecting position of the connection object and a disconnecting position of the connection object. The first contact has a first contacting portion with a first contact point and a pivot portion operated by the cam. The second contact has a second contacting portion with a second contact point and a butting portion faced to the second contacting portion. The butting portion clamps the connection object in cooperation with the first contact point when the connector is connected to the connection object.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Japan Aviation Electronics Industry, LimitedInventors: Naofumi Ikenaga, Takaaki Kudo
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Patent number: 7275955Abstract: An electrical connector assembly (100) includes a first connector (200), a second connector (500) and an insulative base housing (1). The first connector includes a first housing (30) and a number of first terminals (20) fitted in and outwardly projecting from one end of the housing. The second connector has a second insulative housing (31) and a number of second terminals (21) fitted in and extending beyond one end of the second housing. The base housing includes a first holding portion for supporting the first connector and a second holding portion for supporting the second connector. The base housing defines an accessible mating interface (10) having a number of passages (122) are arranged in a first row and a second row to respectively dispose the first terminals and the second terminals.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventor: David (Tso-Chin) Ko
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Patent number: 7275956Abstract: The present invention provides a USB cord organizer, including a stationary base with a USB port and an electronically coupled USB cord extending from the base. A caddy for holding and storing multiple spare USB cords is rotatably mounted on the top of the base. The caddy includes a number of cleats attached to a rotatable central port. Each of the cleats has a pair of projecting horns that engage and secure a spare USB cord when it is wrapped around the cleat. The ends of each spare USB cord are secured by a pair of clips disposed adjacent a respective pair of projecting horns. The organizer provides a USB extension cord built into a USB cord storage caddy.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Joel J. Montesano
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Patent number: 7275957Abstract: An electrical connector having a longitudinal axis with interface and cable ends for coaxial cable having an annular corrugated solid outer conductor. The connector having a body and an interface joined in an interference fit along the longitudinal axis of the connector. A spring finger ring within a bore of the body is rigidly connected to the body. The spring finger ring having a plurality of spring fingers extending towards an connector end; the spring fingers having an inward projecting bead at the connector end. The spring fingers positioned opposite an outer conductor groove open to the cable end, the outer conductor groove proximate the cable end of the interface.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Andrew CorporationInventors: James J. Wlos, John Dykstra, Joon Lee, Jeffrey Paynter
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Patent number: 7275958Abstract: A seal for a piezoactuator in a fuel injector as simply, reliably and, in respect of the useful life of the piezoactuator, as favorably as possible has a support element (28), positioned on terminal posts (20) projecting in an axial direction (A) out of the piezoactuator (12) and pressed in an axial direction toward a top arrangement (14, 18) of the piezoactuator (20). An external sealing ring (36) is clamped along a circumferential region (14) of the top arrangement between the support element (28) and the top arrangement. Internal sealing rings (38) each enclose one of the terminal posts (20) and are each clamped between a face of the support element (28) facing radially inward and a circumferential face of the terminal post (20).Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Marcus Unruh
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Patent number: 7275959Abstract: A multi-port receptacle assembly is provided having a housing forming multiple ports and having electrical connectors mounted within the ports so that upon assembly with a base via mounting features between the base and the housing a uniform multi-port assembly is provided that may be easily transported and installed to a motherboard.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Methode Electronics, Inc.Inventors: John J. Daly, Robert V. Skepnek, Alex Pirillis
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Patent number: 7275960Abstract: A wire harness-side shield connector includes an outer case fittingly connected to a unit-side connector and having a shielding function, and a housing receiving connection terminals fixed respectively to end portions of a plurality of shielded wires, wherein the outer case includes a shield shell which receives the housing and has a shielding function, and a shell holder which when fixed to the shield shell by threading a screw member, causes braids of the shielded wires folded back outwardly to be conductively connected to the shield shell.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Hirotaka Fukushima, Takuya Endo
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Patent number: 7275961Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed, including a rugged electrical connector supporting an external bus protocol including a power signal; a backshell canister mated to the electrical connector; an active electronic component housed in the canister; and an electrical connection between the active electronic component and the rugged electrical connector.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Vonn A. Zauber, Steven M. Gentry
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Patent number: 7275962Abstract: A disclosed connector includes a resin package unit assembly made of a combination of a resin package unit and an insulator block inside a shield cover assembly. The resin package unit includes a resin package portion, an element having an equalizer function inside the resin package portion, plural leads for contact protruding from the resin package portion and forming contacts, and plural leads for electrical wire connection protruding from the resin package portion, the plural leads for electrical wire connection being connected to an electrical wire. The insulator block has a groove portion for accepting the leads for contact. The resin package unit and the insulator block are combined with each other while the leads for contact are fitted into the groove portion, and a portion of the leads for contact fitted into the groove portion in the insulator block forms a fit connection unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2007Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Fujitsu Component LimitedInventors: Tohru Yamakami, Osamu Daikuhara
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Patent number: 7275963Abstract: A loading device for a platelike storage medium incorporating a semiconductor memory and having at least a plurality of terminals, including a terminal portion having a plurality of connection terminals adapted to be connected to the terminals of the storage medium, the terminal portion being movable in a direction so that the terminals of the storage medium come into connection with the connection terminals of the terminal portion in loading the storage medium; and a leading portion for leading the storage medium and the terminal portion in the direction so that the terminals of the storage medium come into connection with the connection terminals of the terminal portion in loading the storage medium.Type: GrantFiled: December 25, 2002Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Kazuhito Kurita
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Patent number: 7275964Abstract: A card connector for accommodating cards comprising an insulating housing defining a plurality of groove, a plurality of contacts received in the grooves and a shell defining a card receiving space for the cards together with the insulating housing. Each contact has a contacting portion for contacting with the cards. The shell comprises a top plate and a bottom plate respectively faced to a top and a bottom surface of the insulating housing and is formed with a plurality of springs to abut against the card.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chien-Jen Ting, Yung-Chang Cheng
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Patent number: 7275965Abstract: A testing tool for testing an I/O port includes a cable and a testing card. The cable includes a port formed at one end thereof configured for being connected to the I/O port, and a first connector formed at an opposite end thereof. The testing card includes two testing circuits and a second connector connected to the first connector. The second connector includes a slider shiftable between a first position where the second connector and a testing circuit are interconnected, and a second position where the second connector and the other testing circuit are interconnected.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ping Liu, Li-Ping Chen
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Patent number: 7275966Abstract: A connector includes a housing having a plurality of spaced apart ribs. A slot is defined between adjacent ribs. The slots are open to the outer sides of the housing. A terminal positioned within each slot and is connected to the housing. This provides for the terminals to be substantially exposed to the environment so that air can flow over the terminals to dissipate heat therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Molex IncorporatedInventors: Edmund W. M. Poh, Lily T. C. Chang
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Patent number: 7275967Abstract: A system and components for interconnecting low power-to-power consuming electrical systems, such as emergency communications equipment, is disclosed. The system includes polarized, genderless, and color-coded connections for cabling, power splitting to sub cables, adapt between connector families, as well as inline fusing integrated into various power connectors. The connectors include cable and connectors, multi-port connectors as well as inline-fused cables. The system and cables are virtually universally connectable in any variation of fixed or temporary power distribution layouts or control signals distribution. It may be easily assembled and disassembled for transportation and storage or change of configuration. The system also can be configured to provide adapters for between different families of connectors.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: James W. Olliff
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Patent number: 7275968Abstract: An electrical connector assembly includes a first insulating body and a second insulating body connected with the first insulating body. A plurality of first contacts are disposed in the first insulating body, and a plurality of second contacts are disposed in the second insulating body. The rear-touching portion of the first contacts and the rear-touching portion of the second contacts touch each other. The front-touching portion of the first contacts and the front-touching portion of the second contacts mate with other connectors. There are a plurality of fixing blocks provided on the rear portion of the first insulating body and corresponding fixing holes defined in the rear portion of the second insulating body, so the electrical connector assembly according to the present invention has a simplified structure and is convenient for assembling.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Cheng Uei Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shu-Man Chiang
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Patent number: 7275969Abstract: A terminal fitting (10) has a rectangular tube (13) with opposed first and second side plates (15, 16). A upper plate (17) is bent from the first side plate (15) into contact with the second side plate (16). A standing portion (23) stands up from the second side plate (16) and a pressing portion (25) is bent from the standing portion (23) and placed on the outer surface of the upper plate (17) to prevent the upper plate (17) from lifting. The pressing portion (25) is formed within a projecting range of the standing portion (23) to improve a yield of a punching operation from a metal plate.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Tomoyoshi Fukaya, Tsutomu Tanaka
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Patent number: 7275970Abstract: Plug error insertion prevention systems, plugs, plug insertion sections, and programs for controlling the same are provided which are suitable for preventing plugs from being inserted in wrong insertion sockets. The plug error insertion prevention system includes a plug attached through a cable to a device, and a plug insertion section that is attached to a device. The plug is provided with a structure including a contactless identification tag and a connection section. The contactless identification tag is provided with a structure including a data reception section, a data transmission section, a data control section, a data storage section, a first state notification section, a display section, and a power generation section.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventor: Masaki Hoshina
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Arc tube, Discharge lamp, and production method of such arc tube, which enables brighter illuminance
Patent number: 7275971Abstract: Disclosed is a compact self-ballasted fluorescent lamp that includes a phosphor coating provided inside a glass tube bent to have a double-spiral configuration. The arc tube has two spiral parts that are wound around an axis “A”, and a turning part joining the two spiral parts. At any cross section of the glass tube, the applied phosphor coating is thicker in the inner surface of the glass tube near the ends of the glass tube in the axis “A” direction, than in the inner surface near the turning part.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kenji Fujiwara, Toyokazu Amano, Shiro Iida -
Patent number: 7275972Abstract: Electroluminescent devices, and methods of making and using such devices, are disclosed. The electroluminescent devices include a patterned layer on a solvent-susceptible layer. The electroluminescent devices may be used, for example, as full color display devices.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Martin B. Wolk, Leslie A. Kreilich, Sergey A. Lamansky, John P. Baetzold
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Patent number: 7275973Abstract: A toy aircraft may include an airframe, which may include a fuselage and a wing assembly. The toy aircraft may include at least one propulsion unit mounted to the airframe. The at least one propulsion unit may be operable to propel the toy aircraft. The toy aircraft may include at least one energy source mounted to the airframe. The toy aircraft may include a controller mounted to the airframe. The controller may couple the energy source to one or more of the at least one propulsion unit. The controller may include a gate array, which may be configured to control operation of the propulsion unit to control flight of the toy aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventor: Kenlip Ong
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Patent number: 7275974Abstract: A wheel-shaped top with magnetic spindles projecting from the body. A circular disc with a beaded rim is mounted on each end of a shaft; the rims of the discs forming a two-rail track encircling the shaft. A handle has two legs attached to opposite ends of the shaft. The spindles are magnetically attached to the two-rail track. The top orbits around the track in response to hand-manipulation of the handle; it is launched from the track when the orbital speed is sufficient to centrifugally separate the spindles from the track to spin on a surface, and can be magnetically retrieved, while spinning, by engagement of the spindles with the shaft, or with one or both of the discs.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Michael Clayton Perry
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Patent number: 7275975Abstract: A toy vehicle that measures and displays performance characteristics is presented. The toy vehicle may be configured to measure performance of the toy, such as speed or acceleration, and display a value for the performance characteristic. A display for showing the performance values may be mounted on the body of the toy vehicle. Movement of the toy vehicle may be measured using an accelerometer. The toy vehicle may determine the number of wheel rotations in a set period of time using a rotary encoder. The value of the performance characteristic may be output to a microprocessor onboard the toy vehicle. The microprocessor may use the value in calculations and the result of the calculations, such as a scaled speed value, may be shown on the display screen.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Mattel, Inc.Inventors: Mark Trageser, Alan Wei, Angus Wong, Ng Chun Chin
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Patent number: 7275976Abstract: The present invention provides a play toy system using a remote-controlled traveling toy, which enables the remote-controlled traveling toy to make a movement that is more unexpected than before, for play. The remote-controlled traveling toy 1 includes one front wheel 5 and two rear wheels 7 and 9. The traveling toy is remotely controlled by remote control signals and is so constructed as to travel on a traveling surface of a play board. The diameter sizes of the two rear wheels 7 and 9 are different. With one front wheel 5 and two rear wheels 7, 9 having a different diameter, the remote-controlled traveling toy 1 can move most unexpectedly that anyone has ever experienced, according to the state of the traveling surface of the play board.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.Inventors: Ryosuke Toriyama, Ryoji Hayashi, Makoto Umeno
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Patent number: 7275977Abstract: A therapeutic bra (100) for reducing breast tissue inflammation in a woman who has recently undergone breast surgery. The therapeutic bra (100) is made up of a sports bra (110), which comprises a front breast section (120), opposite bra sides (140, 160), first (180) and second (200) shoulder straps, and a rear section (220) located between the first (140) and second (160) opposite bra sides. The front breast section (120) comprises an outer layer (260) made up of hook and loop fastener material (125) such as hooks, loops, alone or in combination, and a therapeutic pouch (115). The therapeutic pouch (115) comprises front (280) and rear (300) sides, an opening (320), and an interior (330) accessible via opening (320). The rear side (300) is at least partly covered with complementary hooks, loops, alone or in combination (310) to reversibly attach to the outer layer (260).Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Rhonda Rhodes
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Patent number: 7275978Abstract: A hand power tool is connectable to a power supply unit via a multi-wire cable including a plurality of lines for delivering an operative voltage, and the power supply unit is adjustable by an electronic control unit to one or more operating parameters adapted to whichever hand power tool is connected to it, and a structure is provided which, when the hand power tool is put into operation, delivers information to the electronic control unit about the operating parameter or operating parameters to be adjusted.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Theo Tagscherer
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Patent number: 7275979Abstract: An apparatus for treating edge surfaces of panels, comprises conveyor tables to displace panels in sequence, two of the conveyor tables being configured such that panels are sequentially displaced in longitudinal alignment between the two conveyor tables with a longitudinal edge first. Two other of the conveyor tables are configured such that panels are sequentially displaced in lateral alignment between the two other conveyor tables with a lateral edge first. A first tool is positioned between the two conveyor tables. A second tool is positioned between the two other conveyor tables.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Bromer Inc.Inventor: Roger Raynauld
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Patent number: 7275980Abstract: Bonded abrasive tools, having novel porous structures that are permeable to fluid flow, comprise a relatively low volume percentage of abrasive grain and bond, and a relatively low hardness grade, but are characterized by excellent mechanical strength and grinding performance. Methods for making the abrasive tools utilizing agglomerated abrasive grain are described.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Saint-Gobain Abrasives Technology CompanyInventors: Anne M. Bonner, Eric Bright, Edward L. Lambert, Dean S. Matsumoto, Xavier Orlhac, David A. Sheldon
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Patent number: 7275981Abstract: A disc-shaped sanding pad has a round perimeter. Centrally located in the pad is a socket. A ball, coupled to the end of a handle, is inserted into the socket, permitting the sanding pad to both pivot and rotate freely about the handle. A second single axis pivot is also provided in the preferred embodiment between the handle and sanding pad, which permits the handle to traverse an area greater than a hemisphere about the sanding pad socket.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventors: Ronald B. Hurt, Cheryl F. Hurt, Curtis R. Sauer, Allen A. Retzer
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Patent number: 7275982Abstract: A conveyor cleaning system includes a treating region, a processing region, and a conveyor belt traveling from the treating region to the processing region. A distributor positioned across the treating region deposits a film of ozonated water on the conveyor belt. In the processing region, the conveyor belt is exposed to soiling agents such as grease and other animal matter. A high-pressure rinser may be positioned over the treating section such that the distributor is positioned between the high-pressure rinser and the processing region. Ozonated water may be generated by a system including first and second tanks. The first tank is filled with ozone gas and water. After a predetermined time, undissolved ozone gas is released. The contents of the first tank are then transferred to a second tank along with more ozone gas. After waiting a predetermined time period, undissolved ozone gas is released from the second tank.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Ozone International, LLCInventors: Jim Brandt, Jonathan Brandt
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Patent number: 7275983Abstract: Light control glasses are used as window glasses of a vehicle. When the vehicle is parked, voltage is applied to the light control glass, which directly receives solar radiation from the sun, so that a light transmittancy of the light control glass is reduced to reduce the amount of solar radiation entered a passenger compartment of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: DENSO CorporationInventors: Shinji Aoki, Yasushi Yamanaka, Toshifumi Kamiya
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Patent number: 7275984Abstract: An air conditioning unit for introducing air to a surface of a seat back has a first air guide, a second air guide and a flexible connecting part. The first air guide is disposed on a rear side of a cushion member of the seat back to follow an elastic deformation of the cushion member. An upstream portion of the first air guide defines an inlet port. A downstream portion of the first air guide communicates with a seat back opening formed in the cushion member. The second air guide is disposed on a back board, which is located on the rear side of the cushion member with a space. The second air guide has an inlet port at an upstream portion thereof and an outlet port at a downstream end thereof. The flexible connecting part flexibly connects the outlet port of the second air guide and the inlet port of the first air guide.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Shinji Aoki
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Patent number: 7275985Abstract: There is disclosed a protection system for a heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system. The protection system includes one or more of a base, a shield and a deflector. The protection system is generally designed for preventing water and debris from flowing into the HVAC system.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Zephyros, Inc.Inventors: Keith Lewis, Rick Scheuer, Conrad Miracle
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Patent number: 7275986Abstract: A game performing method for making a computer device execute a predetermined game by generating a first object and a second object as seen from a virtual camera, has: judging whether there is a hit between the first object and the second object; judging whether a predetermined event occurrence condition is satisfied if it is judged that there is the hit between the first object and the second object; generating a first image which is an internal structure object of the second object if it is judged that the predetermined event occurrence condition is satisfied; and generating a second image which is the internal structure object with a predetermined part thereof changed after the first image is generated.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Namco Bandai Games Inc.Inventors: Tomohiro Mori, Takahiro Fukuda
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Patent number: 7275987Abstract: Objects which are created in conformity with the data format of objects to be handled in a virtual world are offered to users on the terminal computers of the users independently of the virtual world. The users transmit the offered objects to a server computer which generates the virtual world, while the server computer stores these objects in association with the operators. Since these objects are recorded in a format which can be interpreted by the server computer for generating the virtual world, they can be handled in the virtual world in the same manner as the other objects which have been defined in the virtual world beforehand. Thus, the users are permitted to use in the virtual world objects which are different from the objects which were defined in the virtual world beforehand.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2001Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.Inventors: Keiso Shimakawa, Shuji Hiramatsu, Masakazu Suzuoki, Akio Ohba, Toyoshi Okada, Shigeru Enomoto, Muneki Shimada, Tomokazu Kake, Yousuke Kimoto, Kenjiro Komaki, Hiromasa Horie, Takahiro Fujii, Yuta Kimura, Hidehisa Onai
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Patent number: 7275988Abstract: Each of a plurality of reels is provided with a plurality of symbols including at least one special symbol. At least one payline is extending across the reels. At least one electro-optical panel includes a first transparent substrate and a second transparent substrate which sandwiches an electro-optical substance therebetween. At least one of the first transparent substrate and the second transparent substrate is formed with at least one bored portion having a shape substantially coincident with an contour of the special symbol, the electro-optical panel disposed in front of each of the reels such that the bored portion is placed on the payline. A controller controls a state of the electro-optical substance in accordance with a predetermined rule to adjust a transparency of the electro-optical panel.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2002Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Konami Gaming IncorporatedInventors: Eiji Aida, Keiri Yoshioka
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Patent number: 7275989Abstract: A slot machine is provided with a plurality of slot symbols which results in a display matrix having a plurality of reel stop locations. A player makes a wager for each pay line on the slot machine that the player wishes to be active. Prior to the reels being spun, the player selects at least one of the reel stop locations that will be respun after the initial spin of the reels. The slot reels are spun and the player receives an award for any winning symbol combinations that appear on active pay lines. Then the reel stop locations selected by the player are respun and the pay lines are reanalyzed to determine if winning combinations have been achieved as a result of the switching of the two reel stop locations. The player receives an award for any winning symbol combinations that appear on active pay lines.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2002Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Ernest W. Moody
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Patent number: 7275990Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for enabling a player to take a tour of a secondary game at a game machine. In one embodiment, a method is provided that includes offering to enable entry of a player into a bonus round of a game machine in exchange for a fee, receiving the fee from the player, and enabling entry of the player into the bonus round. The method further includes receiving an indication of at least one player selection during the bonus round, and determining an outcome based on the at least one player selection. In other embodiments, the method includes providing a prize to the player based on the outcome.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Walker Digital, LLCInventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Russell P. Sammon
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Patent number: 7275991Abstract: A gaming apparatus which comprises a slat machine capable of accepting either paper currency, preprinted coupons, or cash out slips. The slot machine also includes a printer that prints and dispenses cash out slips which include a bar code representing a unique identification that provides the amount of “winnings”. The cash out slips can be scanned into a separate currency dispenser at a Cashier's Station for receiving currency, either from the dispenser or from an attendant. A central processing unit (CPU) generates the unique codes for regulating the game to be played, the wager limits of the game and the validity of the free play coupons or the cash out tickets. The above gaming system avoids having to use coins or tokens in the operation of slot machines.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: MGM Grand, Inc.Inventors: James G. Burns, Robert R. Maxey
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Patent number: 7275992Abstract: The present invention concerns an electronic gaming system configured to provide for end-user control of an on-screen gaining character, the system comprising means for generating an on-screen graphical element comprising first and second markers which are arranged to move relative to one another during operation of the system, the arrangement being such that in operation when said first and second markers attain a pre-defined positional relationship relative to one another the on-screen gaming character is controllable to perform a pre-determined action. Hence, there is provided a timing and reaction based control system configured to allow an end user to interact with an electronic same so as to control the on-screen character to perform actions, movements or tricks.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2002Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Nokia CorporationInventors: Francis Emmerson, Peter Birch, Richard Hatch
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Patent number: 7275993Abstract: A camera picks-up an image external of a game machine and outputs image pick-up data Dv. A display control part controls the camera to pick-up an image and outputs the image pick-up data DV to an external device. In this case, a display device for displaying an image for a game is provided. When prescribed conditions are satisfied, the display control part controls the display device to display an image based on image data Dp extracted from the image pick-up data Dv as a part of the image for a game.Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventors: Toshiyuki Hosaka, Masafumi Sakaguchi
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Patent number: 7275994Abstract: A video game machine is provided with wireless functionality. The wireless functionality may be built-into the video game machine or may be provided by a device that is removably attachable to the video game machine. The wireless functionality enables, among other things, enhanced multi-player capabilities, the ability to receive video game updates, new game levels and new games.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.Inventors: Charles P. Eck, Hiroshi Kamada, Claude Comair
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Patent number: 7275995Abstract: An injection molded plastic guard is used to enclose a coupling connection between a prime mover input shaft and a driven output shaft. The guard is comprised of two halves that are hinged together with a stainless steel pin at one end. The coupling is centered within the guard with the hinge being positioned above the coupling. The halves extend from the hinge to distal ends that are pivoted about the pin to surround and enclose the coupling. The distal ends meet underneath the coupling area and are mounted to a non-rotating base. Sleeves extend outwardly from opposing ends of the guard to surround the input and output shafts and abut against the prime mover and output device equipment. The sleeves have a vertically, elongated opening so that one guard can be used to cover many different base-to-shaft heights. Further, the length of the sleeves can be adjusted to accommodate different centerline-of-guard to equipment face distances.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2003Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Rexnord Industries, LLCInventor: Ronald J. Doll
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Patent number: 7275996Abstract: An infant swing comprises a seat with a padded seating area for an infant and a seat frame that supports said padded seating area, the seat frame comprising at least two upwardly extending arms. The swing also comprises two pivot housings rotatably connected to the at least two upwardly extending arms; a support frame that extends upwardly from a substantially planar surface, the support frame engaging the pivot housings and allowing the seat to rotate freely about the pivot housings; and at least two feet in contact with the substantially planar surface, engaging the frame, and extending outside an outer perimeter of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: Simplicity, Inc.Inventors: James Dillner, Kenneth Waldman, Jerome Drobinski
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Patent number: 7275997Abstract: A swing device includes a seat member, a pair of swing arms that are connected to the seat member, and a driving unit including an axle that is secured to one of the swing arms, a swingable member that is secured to the axle, a pair of studs that project from the swingable member, and a driving element including a driving rod that has a bent middle segment and two opposite bent end segments, each of which extends from the middle segment in a first direction away from the middle segment, passes over a respective one of the studs, and then turns in a second direction toward the respective one of the studs, and each of which has a free end portion that is disposed adjacent to and that is engageable with the respective one of the studs.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Ben M. Hsia
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Patent number: 7275998Abstract: A golf swing apparatus comprising: a tower carrying a lateral arm having a) a lower columnar member; b) a lockable sliding collar slidingly positioned on the columnar member; c) three legs having an inner end portion hinged, and permanently attached to a bottom portion of the lower columnar member, said legs having a swinging other end portion; d) three leg braces each having a bottom end portion hingably attached to the swinging other end portion of one of the legs, the other upper end portion of the leg braces hinged to the sliding collar, so that when the sliding collar is locked in an upper storage position said legs and leg braces are generally parallel to the lower columnar member, and when the sliding collar is locked in a lower operative position the legs are maintained in a generally horizontal position to thereby contact the ground therealong; e) an inner columnar sliding member which telescopes upwardly from within the lower columnar member; f) a releasable column lock to maintain the inner columnaType: GrantFiled: August 31, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Paul D. Jenkins
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Patent number: 7275999Abstract: The invention includes a golf club iron head, correlated sets of individually numbered golf club irons, methods of matching a golf club to a golfer, and methods of matching a set of golf clubs to a golfer. In one implementation, a golf club iron head includes a front striking face, a sole, a toe, and a heel. The front striking face has a series of grooves of a common cross sectional shape from the top to the bottom. Individual grooves have a base and opposing sidewalls which diverge from the base and extend outwardly in the direction of the front striking face. The sidewalls include opposing protrusions extending into the groove proximate the front striking face. In one implementation, the front striking face of a golf club iron head defines a symmetrical groove cross section. The groove base comprises a protrusion extending in the direction of the front striking face. The base protrusion has an apex received inwardly of the front striking face.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2004Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Assignee: U.I.G., Inc.Inventor: Brad L. Sherwood
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Patent number: 7276000Abstract: A training grip that can be installed onto a tennis racquet handle for positioning a tennis player's hand or hands correctly on the racquet to teach or train the player individual tennis strokes. The training grip is adapted to be easily and removably installed onto the eight-sided handle of a tennis racquet directly over an existing grip that is permanently affixed to the racquet. The training grip is an elongated cup having a slit that runs lengthwise from the first end of the grip to the opposing second end of the grip and through the bottom of the grip through which the grip may be installed onto the racquet handle. The outer surface of the grip is molded to have ridges and depressions creating contours for receiving and positioning the player's fingers and thumbs of the player's hand or hands.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2006Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Michael B. Baker