Patents Issued in December 4, 2007
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Patent number: 7303325Abstract: An illumination device for a display apparatus provided on a rear side of a display panel of the display apparatus includes a plurality of rod-like light sources arranged substantially parallel to each other; and a light scattering member for scattering light, the light scattering member being provided between two adjacent rod-like light sources among the plurality of rod-like light sources.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshiki Takata
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Patent number: 7303326Abstract: An exemplary backlight module (2) includes a light guide plate (21) and a light source (20). The light guide plate includes a body (211) and a protrusion (212) extending from the body. The body includes a light emitting surface (2111) and a side surface (2112) adjacent the light emitting surface. The light source includes a wire (22) which is disposed in a space defined between the side surface and the protrusion. The backlight module is compact with a reduced length.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignees: Innocom Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Innolux Display Corp.Inventors: Zhi-Feng Fu, Yu-Liang Huang
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Patent number: 7303327Abstract: A night light comprising a housing with a rotatable bezel mounted thereon. The housing includes a rear wall with electric blades extending outwardly therefrom for engaging in an electrical wall outlet. The bezel is rotatable about a first pivot axis. A LED array is mounted in the bezel and the array is rotatable about a second pivot axis. The second pivot axis is oriented on a different plane to the first pivot axis and preferably lies at ninety degree thereto. When the bezel is rotated about the first pivot axis, the direction of the light emitted from the LED array is changed. Because the bezel can rotate through 360°, the LED array can be rotated through 360° about the first pivot axis. The LED array can be pivoted through an arc of between 160° and 175° about the second pivot axis.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: American Tack + Hardware Co., Inc.Inventors: Steve A. Copeland, Mitchell Thompson
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Patent number: 7303328Abstract: The cartridge has two compartments normally for containing two substances of the mixture, which are separated by a preferential break member; one of the two compartments contains a liquid solvent, and is fitted with a bellows having an intake valve and for producing a pumping action by varying the volume of the bellows by exerting pressure on the bellows. The bellows first causes breakage of the member to mix the two substances, and then produces flow of the mixture to accelerate its reaction. The cartridge is insertable inside a cavity of a support for heating or cooling in predetermined conditions.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile Per AzioniInventors: Paolo Faraldi, Marco Federico Pidria, Edoardo Merlone Borla
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Patent number: 7303329Abstract: A mixing device for mixing resins and other liquids. The device comprises of a first elongated member which includes a drill end being adaptable to a conventional drill motor chuck and first connection end. A U-shaped member coupled to the first elongated member, which includes a first end coupled to the first connection end and a second end wherein the U-shaped member curves greater than about 180 degrees. A second elongated member is coupled to the U-shaped member and includes a second connection end coupled to the second end and a free end portion. The free portion extends adjacent to and substantially parallel to the first elongated member. The mixing device may also comprise one, contiguous single member. The mixing device may also be made of a rigid material including steel, ceramic, plastic, or the like.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Kevin B. Flynn
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Patent number: 7303330Abstract: The invention concerns a watch wristband of the type including at least one row of central links (10) of longitudinal axis AA, two rows of pairs of lateral links (11) facing each other symmetrically with respect to the axis in order to connect the central links (10) to each other and a plurality of lugs (24) assembling the central links with the lateral links in an articulated manner. This wristband is characterized in that each central link (10) includes a core (12), a layer of carbon fiber fabric (13) covering the core and two flanges (15) respectively secured to the faces of the core connection to the lateral links.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Hartcase CorporationInventor: Paul Hartzband
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Patent number: 7303331Abstract: A temperature measuring system, comprising an imaging device for focusing radiation towards a radiation detector, wherein the imaging device is a diffractive optical device.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Rolls-Royce plcInventor: Harold Heyworth
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Patent number: 7303332Abstract: A deflectable probe for use in a thermometer. The deflectable probe is constituted by a bendable probe body and a hollow tip member secured thereto. Furthermore, a deflectable member includes a main portion disposed in the bendable probe body. When the bendable probe body is subjected to a force, deformation of the main portion occurs. In particular, the deformation cannot be undone by a return force from the bendable probe body when the applied force is removed, so that the bendable probe body is sustained in a bent form. A space is formed between the hollow pipe and the main portion of the deflectable member for deformation of the main portion to prevent the deflectable member being easily pushed into the hollow cavity and avoid the lead wires being easily cut off.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Mesure Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chu Yih Yu
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Patent number: 7303333Abstract: A thermometer is constituted by a flexible probe body and a metal tip member with a thermal contact surface. The flexible probe body including a narrower space neighboring the metal tip member and a wider space communicated with the narrower space is secured to the metal tip member by a hook structure. A thermal sensor mounted on the inside of the thermal contact surface of the metal tip member is adapted for sensing the temperature of the thermal contact surface and producing a temperature signal. A set of lead wires is coupled to the thermal sensor for transmission of the temperature signal. In particular, a thermally conductive adhesive material filling the metal tip member, the narrower space and the wider space is cured to integrately form the hook structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Mesure Technology Co., Ltd.Inventor: Chu-Yih Yu
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Patent number: 7303334Abstract: A radiation attenuation system for use with Computed Tomography procedures is disclosed. The system includes a shield made of a radiation attenuation material and may be useful in blocking or attenuating radiation, and assisting in the protection of at least one of a patient and a medical personnel present during the Computed Tomography procedure. The system may be useful for both Computed Tomography scanning procedures and Computed Tomography fluoroscopy procedures.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Worldwide Innovations & Technologies, Inc.Inventors: John A. Cadwalader, William W. Orrison
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Patent number: 7303335Abstract: A linear-motion device has: a slider provided onto a guide rail relatively movably; and a plurality of rolling elements for causing the slider to move relatively in a longitudinal direction of the guide rail; whereby the slider comprising a slider block having rolling-element rolling grooves that oppose to rolling-element rolling grooves formed on the guide rail, and end caps that close both-end openings of the rolling-element rolling paths formed between the rolling-element rolling grooves on the slider block and the rolling-element rolling grooves on the guide rail, and rolling-element return paths for returning the rolling elements, which have rolled in the rolling-element rolling paths, are formed on the slider block, wherein the rolling-element return paths comprises a groove portion formed on an outer surface of the slider block along the longitudinal direction of the guide rail, and a cover member for covering the groove portion.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2002Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: NSK Ltd.Inventors: Soichiro Kato, Takumi Nakagawa, Naoki Inokai, Kazuo Kanazawa
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Patent number: 7303336Abstract: The present invention provides transceiver modules in which a transceiver may be ejected from a cage into which the transceiver is inserted by pivoting a handle mounted on the transceiver.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: JDS Uniphase CorporationInventors: Andrew Kayner, Andrew Moore, Susan Tower, Gerald Renoux, Bryan Yunker
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Patent number: 7303337Abstract: In an optical communications module comprising one or more dielectric substrates equipped with an optical transmitter section, an optical receiver section or an optical transceiver section, and a chassis encasing all of them, a metal part is formed on one side of at least one of the dielectric substrates such that the metal part constitutes the whole or a part of the exterior surface of the chassis so that the length of heat conduction from a dielectric substrate with heat-generating components installed thereon can be minimized so as to efficiently release heat through the metal part to outside, curbing a temperature increase within the chassis. Thus, the optical communications module can exhibit excellent performance.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Takeshi Fujimoto, Yoshiki Kuhara, Hiromi Nakanishi, Keiichi Fukuda
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Patent number: 7303338Abstract: A light guide plate (10) includes a light incident surface (12), a light emitting surface (14) adjoining the light incident surface, a bottom surface (16) opposite to the light emitting surface, and a plurality of holes (18). Each hole has at least one open end terminating at the light emitting surface or the bottom surface. The holes may be through holes or blind holes. When incident light beams reach the holes, the light beams are reflected or refracted in directions toward the light emitting surface. Therefore a distance traveled by a portion of the light beams in the light guide plate is shortened, and the loss of light energy is reduced. This enables the light guide plate to provide a high ratio of light utilization. Additionally, the through holes reduce the weight of the light guide plate. The light guide plate can be generally rectangular or wedge-shaped.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignees: Innocom Technology (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., Innolux Display Corp.Inventors: Ching-Huang Lin, Chih-Hung Chang, Song Lu, Wen-Bin Lin
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Patent number: 7303339Abstract: Optical modules and methods for making optical modules are described. In one embodiment, an optical module includes a substrate assembly including a photonic chip mounting region, and a groove extending towards the photonic chip mounting region. A waveguide is disposed within the groove. A plurality of spacers is on the chip mounting region, each spacer having a predetermined height. A photonic chip is placed on the plurality of spacers and above the chip mounting region, and an optical coupler is between the photonic chip and the waveguide.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Phosistor Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Yan Zhou, Shide Cheng, Seng-Tiong Ho
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Patent number: 7303340Abstract: The invention relates to an optoelectronic emission module comprising a housing (B), which has electrical terminal contacts (5) for supplying and/or carrying away electric signals or for supplying electrical power. Said emission module also has at least one optical emission element (13), which is arranged inside the housing (3), and has at least one optical waveguide (17), which is held inside or on the housing (3) and in whose injection end (19) the light emitted by the at least one optical emission element (13) can be injected. The at least one optical emission element (13) and the injection end (19) of the at least one optical waveguide (17) are mounted on a supporting element. The invention also relates to a method for producing an emission module of the aforementioned type.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2002Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Finisar CorporationInventor: Bernd Hubner
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Patent number: 7303341Abstract: A ball and race universal joint has an equipment mounting plate attached to and positioned above the race. The ball has a horizontal shaft extending there through with ends protruding from opposite sides of the ball. One or more elastic cords are connected to the protruding ends of the shaft. The elastic cords permit the apparatus to be attached between two mounting points located in or on a moving and/or vibrating platform at a level close to that of the mounting points and provide vibration isolation from the platform. The universal joint permits a camera or other equipment mounted on the mounting plate to be aimed in any direction. A base has a turntable with a pair of spaced uprights which may be used to provide the mounting points if such are not conveniently available in or on the platform.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Arnold Itzkowitz
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Patent number: 7303342Abstract: A cable label having a desired configuration is provided without forcing a user to do any troublesome work. A character string to be printed on a cable label is memorized in a character string memory section. A print image generating section generates a character string memorized in the character string memory section. A designation and its outside diameter value, for example, of each of plural cables are memorized in a cable information memory section. A label length determining section determines the length of a cable label based on the outside diameter value of a selected cable. A print image arranging section arranges a print image generated by the print image generating section within a length determined by a label length determining section.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yoshijiro Yamamoto, Hideo Ueno, Mizue Terai, Naruhito Muto
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Patent number: 7303343Abstract: A printing system includes a supply device and a tape printing device. The supply device includes a widthwise-size setting unit that sets the size of a print table image in the tape-width direction based on the tape width notified by the printing device, a table structure input unit that inputs the number of rows and columns of a table, a reference table creating unit that creates reference table borders based on the set size of the print table image in the tape-width direction and the input number of rows and columns, and a print table image data editing unit that edits the print table image data by editing a plurality of reference horizontal borders and reference vertical borders of the reference table borders.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignees: Seiko Epson Corporation, King Jim Co., Ltd.Inventors: Mikihiro Kajihara, Mamoru Sakai, Hiroshi Ono
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Patent number: 7303344Abstract: A thermal transfer-type label printer and an optical disc apparatus are integrated to miniaturize a multi-function label printing apparatus. An information recording/reproducing unit that carries out recording or reproduction of information on a recording surface of an optical disc is incorporated within a disc tray unit of a label printing apparatus that presses a thermal transfer film ribbon, on which printing information has been formed, onto a label surface of an optical disc mounted on a disc mounting part of the disc tray unit, and transfers the printing information onto the label surface using a heat roller. The recording or reproduction of information on the recording surface of the optical disc and the transferring of the printing information on the label surface of the optical disc are carried out on the disc tray unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: TEAC CorporationInventors: Motoyuki Sukigara, Tatsuo Shiaku, Yuuki Yoshida, Junichi Mizukami
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Patent number: 7303345Abstract: An apparatus for recording an image onto a sheet medium (12) has an entrance drive roller (16) paired with a corresponding entrance pressure roller (18) to form an entrance nip (14) for transporting the sheet medium into an image recording section (20). The image recording section has a write head (56) for recording onto a portion of the sheet medium being transported between the entrance nip (14) and exit nip (24). The exit nip is formed by a drive roller (26) paired with a corresponding exit pressure roller (28) for transporting the sheet medium out from the image recording section. A motor (60) provides rotary motion to a pinion roller (40) mechanically coupled to the entrance and exit drive rollers (16, 26). A loading mechanism provides a loading force to nest the pinion roller into rotational contact against a portion of the entrance and exit drive rollers (16, 26).Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Carestream Health, Inc.Inventors: Mark D. Bedzyk, Jeffery R. Hawver
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Patent number: 7303346Abstract: An image-forming apparatus provided with an image-forming portion in a casing, including: a casing frame forming a skeleton of the casing; a shield chassis portion formed so as to be partially integrated with the casing frame per se; and at least one board directly attached to the shield chassis portion and mounted with a power supply circuit, a control circuit and an image-processing circuit for permitting the image-forming portion to execute an image-forming process. A frame structure per se of the image-forming apparatus (an embodiment in which the shield chassis portion is formed so as to be integrated with the casing frame per se) or a method for producing the frame structure is also a subject of the invention.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.Inventors: Satoshi Ogi, Hideki Matsumoto
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Patent number: 7303347Abstract: A portable stain removal kit for removing stains from fabrics, such as clothing or furniture, for use immediately after the mishap has occurred. The kit is intended to be small enough to be carried in a pocket or purse and includes a spatula, a stain removing material, a brush, and an absorbent material.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Georgetta P. Duncan
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Patent number: 7303348Abstract: A dispenser for metered dosing of cream-based medicines comprising a barrel, a base having a threaded rod extending therefrom, a riser having at least one flexible seal which engages the barrel, an applicator cap having apertures therein for spreading dispensed cream onto a user's skin. The user positively knows when a metered amount of cream has been dispensed by tactile and audible feedback.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2007Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Custom Rx Tda, LLCInventors: Timothy Phipps, Dale Coker, Carter Gorman, Lindsey Pickle, Matthew Poelke, Larry Wilson, Donald Anthony Muntner
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Patent number: 7303349Abstract: a pen adapted to be pressurized and capable of being manufactured inexpensively, with which ink can be smoothly supplied and an excessive pressurization within an ink accommodating tube and the leakage of ink can be prevented, as well as a pen that can be easily used in a state that a pen tip is directed upwardly. The pen comprises a pressurizing pump mechanism 10 which pressurizes an inside of ink accommodating tube 3 and includes a pressurizing chamber 14 communicating with the inside of the ink accommodating tube, an elastic spherical body 16 disposed to be pushed into the pressurizing chamber, a compression spring 17 that urges the spherical body in a direction to be released from within the pressurizing chamber, and a pressing stem 18 that moves the spherical body against the urging force of the compression spring into the pressurizing chamber in an airtight state.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Tombow Pencil Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yasuo Murakoshi
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Patent number: 7303350Abstract: An ink composition for a pressurized ballpoint pen and a pressurized ballpoint pen which can exhibit excellent writing properties, do not cause ink leakage and which are suited to handwriting. The ink composition for a pressurized ballpoint pen includes at least a colorant, a solvent and silica, wherein a coagulated matter containing at least the silica is contained therein, and the ink composition has a viscosity of 10000 to 40000 mPa·s at 25° C. A pressurized ballpoint pen equipped with a refill, in which pressurized gas is charged into an ink reservoir charged with the ink composition for a pressurized ballpoint pen and a closed vessel containing the reservoir is also set forth.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Mitsubishi Pencil Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaaki Morita, Hiroyuki Ito
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Patent number: 7303351Abstract: A writing point assembly and an ink tube and/or a holder can be welded appropriately at a predetermined area without using ultrasonic waves, so as to be able to prevent dislodging of the writing point assembly, ink leakage and the like. The rear end part, of a metallic writing point assembly as a part of a writing instrument, is inserted into a joint, and is heated at the predetermined area (at least the fitted area in contact with the front end part of the joint), so as to weld the predetermined area of the writing point assembly to the surrounding part of the joint.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Mitsubishi Pencil Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuhiko Furukawa, Kiyoshi Fujisawa, Yoshihide Ishii, Daisen Kato
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Patent number: 7303352Abstract: A connection device for a plow installation, the device including a connection bracket having a basic body operable for attachment to a channel or guide section of the plow installation. A joint socket in the basic body includes a socket portion operable to receive a joint head of a boom cylinder. First and second legs are arranged in parallel and separated by a predetermined distance, with each leg including an inside portion and an outside portion. First and second supporting webs are located on the outside portions of the first and second legs, respectively. First and second bolt holes are located in the first and second legs, respectively, with a diameter of each bolt hole increasing from the inside portion of each leg to the outside portion. A joint bolt is located in the first and second bolt holes, and a clamping piece is located in each bolt hole.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: DBT GmbHInventors: Diedrich Bettermann, Klaus Duhnke, Norbert Hesse, Gerhard Siepenkort, Adam Klabisch
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Patent number: 7303353Abstract: A relocatable traffic barrier system including a plurality of elongate barrier modules (112, 113) connected end-to-end, each module having a cavity for receiving a ballast of a fluid material wherein the barrier system includes at least one crash rail (124) extending lengthwise along at least one side of the plurality of elongate barrier modules wherein the at least one crash rail is secured to selected elongate barrier modules by a deformable member (123), said deformable member being disposed between the at least one crash rail and the selected elongate barrier modules.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Way-Togo Aussindo Pty LtdInventor: Anthony J. Carey
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Patent number: 7303354Abstract: A temporary cover for manholes to provide a platform for maintenance workers when operating valves of underground utility systems. The cover comprising a circular outer rim dimensioned to fit into a manhole opening, a pair of parallel and spaced apart rods extending from the outer rim to its center, a valve key receiving and positioning assembly movable along the rods, and a meshed framework covering an area bordered by the circular rim, leaving an area between the two rods. The assembly comprises a ring and two diametrically opposite sleeves exteriorly attached to the ring for receiving the rods. A valve key can be inserted into the manhole through the ring. The meshed framework serves as a platform to support a person and defines a plurality of openings facilitating viewing into the manhole after the cover is placed thereon.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Steven DeCroix
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Patent number: 7303355Abstract: An insertion device configured for connecting to a frame of a concrete paving machine. The insertion device including a housing, a guide tube extending from the housing, and an ejection device positioned in the housing and cooperating with the guide tube to individually eject dowels stored by the housing through the guide tube. According to one embodiment, the housing includes an alignment system for aligning the dowels in the housing in a predetermined orientation. In another embodiment, the housing has a parting feature that extends along a forward external side of the housing. In yet another embodiment, the guide tube includes a resilient element provided at an outlet portion that is arranged to seal the outlet portion of the guide tube.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2007Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Drion Constructie, Besloten VennootschapInventor: Francois Joseph Casters
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Patent number: 7303356Abstract: The invention relates to a soil compacting device, especially a vibrating plate, which comprises an undercarriage mounted on a lower body, said undercarriage having an undercarriage axle that is stationary with respect to the device. By suitably positioning the undercarriage axle it is achieved that, in a vibrating position, the rolling bodies do not touch ground while they do touch ground when the entire device is simply tilted about an axis that corresponds approximately to the undercarriage axle, thereby allowing the mobility of the device. The soil compacting device is advantageous over conventional devices in that an extension or swiveling of the undercarriage axle for the purpose of transport and the corresponding devices are no longer required.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Wacker Construction Equipment AGInventors: Hermann Schennach, Marcus Kuchler
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Patent number: 7303357Abstract: A catch basin configured to allow selective positioning of the outlet and inlet ports on the side walls of the catch basin's receptacle body. At least one of the receptacle side walls comprise a slide opening having opposing sides. A slide member has a pair of slide edges that slidably engage the sides of the slide opening to substantially close the slide opening. The slide member has a port section and two or more positioning sections, with at least one positioning section located above the port section and one below the port section. The port section has an outlet or inlet port integral therewith or fixedly attached thereto or the port section comprises a mechanism for attaching an outlet or inlet port thereto, such as a port cutout having a removable knockout plate. The slide member has section removal indicators to identify which positioning sections should be removed.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventors: Arthur Villarreal, Chris M. Moralez, Robert Juskalian, Jerry Wright
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Patent number: 7303358Abstract: A reconfigurable barrier system (10) includes a plurality of support units (100) spaced one from the other, with each support unit (100) having at least one engagement section (110) defining an elongate channel (112). System (10) further includes at least one retention unit (200) that is substantially impervious to liquid, and is supported to extend between a pair of support units (100). Each retention unit (200) is formed with a pair of opposed engagement portions (212) which slidably engage respective ones of the support unit channels (112). Each retention unit (200) is also formed with a seal portion (220) that extends along a longitudinal edge of at least an intermediate portion (214) between the engagement portions (212). A barrier section (15) is defined by each pair of support units (100) and the at least one retention unit (200) supported thereby.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Charles L. Fuller
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Patent number: 7303359Abstract: A pipe reinforcement system for reinforcing a pipe including a pipe section having an inner and an outer elbow surface separated by a pipe opening with a plurality of ceramic tiles overlying the pipe section, each of said tiles having a generally arcuate inner surface, said plurality of tiles secured to said pipe section with said inner arcuate surface positioned adjacent to said outer elbow surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Progressive Products, Inc.Inventors: Patrick B. Damman, Robert N. Allison
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Patent number: 7303360Abstract: Disclosed is a system that performs inspection and repair of an underwater structure, specifically core internals in a pressure vessel. An underwater vehicle is provided with a drive wheel, a contact force generating unit (e.g., thruster) that presses the drive wheel to a vertical wall of the underwater structure, an ascending force control unit (e.g., ballast) that controls the buoyancy of the vehicle, a guide roller that engages with and is pressed against an undersurface of the underwater structure by the ascending force controlled by the ascending force control unit. The underwater vehicle is appropriately positioned with respect to the vertical direction by the guide roller. The drive wheel is driven for rotation so that the underwater vehicle runs horizontally along the vertical wall to reach the inspection or repair site, where the inspection or repair is carried out by work tool mounted to the underwater vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2007Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Tetsuro Nakagawa, Yasuhiro Yuguchi, Koichi Soma, Hiroshi Iimori, Mitsuaki Shimamura
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Patent number: 7303361Abstract: A concrete form with a keyway with an opening between opposing keyway lips together with a base that fits through the keyway opening and rotates without restriction in the keyway such that a portion of the base rests behind the keyway lips so when it is pulled as a clamp or tie is exercised to secure a stake to the form the base is secured tight against the form front. The concrete form further has at least one brace wall extending between intermediate the keyway back wall and the form back. Form end connectors securable in form ends are provided that join two forms aligned end to end.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Michael Lane
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Patent number: 7303362Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for moving and placing in hard to reach locations granular and other particulate material such as sand, gravel, earth and similar materials. The system includes an improved auger for moving the material and an improved rotary airlock mechanism designed to withstand the abrasive action of the particulate material and at the same time move the material several hundred feet through a flexible conduit for placement in a pre-designated location. A system and apparatus is also disclosed for transporting on one vehicle all of the devices needed at a remote site for operation the particulate placement system, including a front loader.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventors: Richard Dunlop, Robert Griffin, Steven C. Stokes, Denis A. Stokes, Gary Bonney
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Patent number: 7303363Abstract: A drill has a tubular outer housing and a tubular inner housing. The inner housing is movable between extended and retracted positions. A pneumatic motor with a chuck mounts to the inner housing. Air pressure is delivered to annular pistons to cause the inner housing to extend and retract. Also, an annular hydraulic chamber with a variable orifice bypass controls the rate of feed. A processor records the total number of holes being drilled as well as recording the time duration for each hole.Type: GrantFiled: September 10, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Gus E. Krause, William B. Maurer, Glenn G. Born
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Patent number: 7303364Abstract: An apparatus for providing convenient control of a power tool electrical system. A switch assembly includes a first actuator and a second actuator, which is disposed remotely from the switch and first actuator. The second actuator is connected via a coupling device, such that user manipulation of either the first or second actuator is capable of controlling electricity flowing to the motor. Including a second actuator may permit the user to retain greater control over the tool when turning the power on or off. In additional exemplary aspects, a coupling device included in the switch assembly is configured and arranged so as to prevent inadvertent damage to the power tool such as by accidental engagement of a shaft lock while the motor is operating.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Randy G. Cooper, Mark A. Etter, Greg K. Griffin, Ginger L. Allen, Derrick Kilbourne
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Patent number: 7303365Abstract: The invention is relative to a transport vehicle with a tractor and a trailer that are connected to one another during the transport of cargo by the cargo itself. The invention has the problem of making a transport vehicle available that also makes possible the transport on highways of very bulky material, especially such material that exceeds the usual profile height of underpasses and bridges (freeway bridges, etc.). A transport vehicle for a rotor blade of a wind power system with a tractor and a trailer that are connected to one another during the transport of the rotor blade by the rotor blade and that respectively comprise a holding device and/or receiving device for the rotor blade which holding device and/or receiving device is/are designed in such a manner that it/they permit(s) a rotation of the rotor blade about its longitudinal axis and that a drive for rotating the rotor blade is provided on the tractor and/or the trailer.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Aloys Wobben
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Patent number: 7303366Abstract: The current invention is directed to a three piece blind fastener comprising a mandrel 40, a tubular body portion of 10 and a radially extending flange 14, wherein the cylindrical body 10 is mounted on an elongate stem 42 of the mandrel so as to extend co-axially about a central axis of such blind fastener, and the mandrel having a mandrel head in operative engagement with a tail end of the body for transmitting force there to during setting of the fastener, wherein the radially extending flange is separate from and held in crimped engagement with the body portion at or towards a front end of the tubular body so as to be axially remote from the tail end of such body.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Newfrey LLCInventor: Daniel R. Smith
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Patent number: 7303367Abstract: A lock nut system includes a molded nut having a plurality of teeth and a molded keeper having a plurality of keeper teeth engageable with the plurality of teeth to inhibit movement of the keeper relative to the nut when the plurality of teeth engages the plurality of keeper teeth. The keeper has a radially inner side configured to engage a shaft to inhibit rotational movement of the nut relative to the shaft when the plurality of teeth engages the plurality of keeper teeth.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: John E. Rode
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Patent number: 7303368Abstract: A trailer for a walk greensmower comprises a trailer frame supported by a pair of ground engaging trailer wheels. The trailer frame includes a pair of spaced, parallel wheel ramps. A tongue is provided for connecting to a tow vehicle. The trailer frame is pivotal relative to the tongue and to the trailer wheels to tilt into an inclined loading position for loading the walk greensmower by driving the walk greensmower up the wheel ramps using the powered transport wheels of the walk greensmower. Once the walk greensmower is loaded onto the wheel ramps, the trailer frame is pivoted into a transport position in which the wheel ramps no longer engage the ground and the walk greensmower is carried on the wheel ramps. In one embodiment of this trailer, the wheel ramps comprise cylindrical rails and the transport wheels are grooved to ride on the top sides of the rails.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: The Toro CompanyInventors: Gerald E. Goman, Robert D. Patton, John E. Close, Christopher C. Dickey
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Patent number: 7303369Abstract: A lift and drag-based vertical axis wind turbine in which the vertical axis and foils mounted thereon are magnetically levitated above the turbine's base, thereby reducing friction within the system. The foils or vanes are three-dimensionally shaped about the vertical axis so as to resemble the billowed sail of a sailing ship and capture wind through 360 degrees of rotation under any wind condition. The system has an axial flux alternator using variable resistance coils which can be individually and selectively turned on or off depending on wind conditions and electrical draw requirements. The coils can also be used to produce mechanical drag on the system as desired to brake the turbine in high wind conditions or for maintenance. The system may be programmed to assess whether electricity generated by the system can be or should be transmitted to a public grid or stored locally on a chargeable battery system.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventors: James A. Rowan, Thomas J. Priest-Brown
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Patent number: 7303370Abstract: A fluid flow engine comprises: a turbine housing including at least one supply channel for supplying a driving fluid; at least one turbine rotor rotatably supported in the turbine housing about an axis of rotation; and a guiding grid of variable turbine geometry radially outside and surrounding the turbine rotor. The guiding grid comprises a nozzle ring forming one end limitation of a vane space and a plurality of guiding vanes each being pivoted about a pivoting axis and being supported by the nozzle ring so as to supply an adjustable amount of fluid from the supply channel to the turbine rotor. At least one spacer is connected to the nozzle ring for securing an axial distance for enabling the vanes to wove freely. The spacer includes at least one bolt or pin tat penetrates into the nozzle ring.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: BorgWarner, Inc.Inventors: Dietmar Metz, Dirk Frankenstein, Ralf Boening
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Patent number: 7303371Abstract: The invention relates to a gas turbine. The aim of the invention is to provide an axial sealing between a vane ring and a moving blade ring, which has an excellent sealing effect, is easy to install and inexpensive to produce. For this purpose, a sealing element is used that extends across at least a fourth of the hot gas channel circumference. Preferably, said sealing element extends across approximately half the circumference and is inserted in grooves of the vane support and the vane platforms.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2004Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Iris Oltmanns, legal representative, Peter Tiemann, legally incapacitated
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Patent number: 7303372Abstract: A turbine nozzle cooling sub-system is provided. The sub-system includes at least one turbine nozzle segment. The segment includes an arcuate, radially outermost endwall, an arcuate, radially innermost endwall, and at least one airfoil vane. The endwalls each include at least one open passage. The airfoil vane extends between and is coupled to the endwalls. The vane further includes a cavity, a leading edge, a trailing edge, and an airfoil vane external surface. The cavity includes an airfoil vane internal surface and a plurality of turbulators. The cavity and the open passages are in flow communication such that an airfoil cooling air stream flow is facilitated. The sub-system also includes at least one diffuser in flow communication with a compressor assembly and the segment. The diffuser includes at least one diffuser wall and cavity. The diffuser wall extends from the compressor assembly to the segment such that a channeling of the airfoil cooling air stream to the segment is facilitated.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: James Anthony West, William Stephen Kvasnak, Brendan Francis Sexton
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Wind turbine systems, monitoring systems and processes for monitoring stress in a wind turbine blade
Patent number: 7303373Abstract: Wind turbine systems, monitoring systems, and processes for measuring stress in a wind turbine blade generally includes embedding and or disposing optical glass fibers on a surface of the wind turbine blade and monitoring light transmission through the optical glass fiber. A reduction or loss of transmission indicates that the tensile strength of the optical glass fiber has been exceeded, which directly correlates to the level of stress exposed to the wind turbine blade.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: John Ruediger Mader Viertl -
Patent number: 7303374Abstract: A disbond resistant multi-laminate composite product is provided having, a first member; a second member of composite material bonded to the first member; a third member of composite material bonded to at least the second member and being so positioned and arranged such that when the second and third members are stressed at least a portion of the third member will have higher stress than the adjacent second member. The third member preferably has a terminal portion adjacent the second member in which terminal portion the strain energy release rate is higher than in the adjacent second member when the second and third members are stressed. The second and third members are preferably so positioned and arranged such that the third member initiates delamination from the second member before the second member initiates delamination from the first member when the first, second and third members are under stress.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2005Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Jian Li, Stephen L. Guymon