Patents Issued in December 18, 2007
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Patent number: 7309041Abstract: Belt retractor and a belt-retractor spring-cassette housing for a belt retractor. The belt-retractor spring-cassette housing can be installed in a particularly simple and therefore cost-effective manner. The belt-retractor spring-cassette housing has a spring core and a driving spring which is held in the spring core, the belt-retractor spring-cassette housing and/or the spring core are designed symmetrically so that the driving spring can have any desired torque direction.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Takata CorporationInventors: Rudiger Paulsen, Robert Fleischmann, Thomas Grasser, Oskar Scholler, Stefan Lambrecht, Jochen Benz
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Patent number: 7309042Abstract: An automatic positioning dispenser for paper rolls includes (a) a front section of a main housing including a reciprocating paper roll elevator shaft, and a rear section of the main housing including a paper roll storage and feeding mechanism; (b) the elevator shaft having a handle, a roll holder and a reciprocal track, the roll holder having a roll engaging position and a roll disengaging position, the handle and roll holder being moveably connected to one another so as to move together along the reciprocal track, so that when the handle is moved down, it first releases a spent roll, then travels to the bottom and locks onto a new roll, and when the handle is next pulled up, it moves the new roll to the top position for use; and, (c) the paper roll storage and feeding mechanism having sufficient storage area to store a plurality of paper rolls in sequential position, and having feeding means to move a paper roll from the storage area to the bottom of the elevator shaft.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Pleo Originals, LLCInventor: Peter E. Rigas
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Patent number: 7309043Abstract: Actuation device positioning systems and associated methods, including aircraft spoiler droop systems are generally disclosed herein. One aspect of the invention is directed toward a positioning system that includes an eccentric cam and a drive mechanism coupled to the eccentric cam to rotate the eccentric cam between a first cam position and a second cam position. The system can further include an actuation device having an anchor portion and a movable portion that is movable relative to the anchor portion, the anchor portion operatively coupled to the eccentric cam. The eccentric cam can be positioned to move the anchor portion to a first anchor position when the eccentric cam is rotated to the first cam position and to move the anchor portion to a second anchor position when the eccentric cam is rotated to the second cam position.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Mark S. Good, Neal V. Huynh, Kelly T. Jones, Selya Sakurai
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Patent number: 7309044Abstract: The invention relates to a device for improving security in an aircraft during the operation of air traffic. The invention is characterized in that a security zone (2?), which can be sealed off by controllable access doors (25, 26) and monitored by sensors (24, 31), is provided between the passenger cabin (3) and cockpit (1) areas. The invention also relates to methods for improving security during the operation of air traffic, using said device. The advantage of the invention is that the penetration of the cockpit by unauthorized persons, who could neutralize the functions of the pilot or operational components, can be prevented. Even in the case of a present threat or a terrorist attack, involving the taking of hostages or a threat with the use of violence, the pilots in the cockpit are protected effectively.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2002Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbHInventor: Wilfried Sprenger
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Patent number: 7309045Abstract: Modular vehicle units, including aircraft interior storage units, and associated methods are disclosed herein. One embodiment is directed toward an aircraft system that includes a modular unit and at least one latch or releasable coupler to couple the modular unit to at least one surface of an aircraft. Another embodiment is directed toward a vehicle system that includes a vehicle having a first surface and a second surface. A modular unit can be positioned generally against the first and second surfaces. The system can further include at least one latch or releasable coupler to couple the modular unit to at least one of the first and second surfaces. In further embodiments, the system can include at least one locating device for positioning the modular unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: David S. Melberg, Jonathan T. Barrows
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Patent number: 7309046Abstract: Objectives to be achieved by this invention are the provision of a method for determining the ultimate fuselage shape of supersonic aircraft by integral modification of the upper and lower surface shapes of the fuselage, to reduce sonic boom without increasing wave drag, as well as the provision of such a fuselage front section shape. A method for determining the fuselage shape of an aircraft for supersonic flight of this invention employs different methods of determining the fuselage lower-surface shape and the fuselage upper-surface shape, whose upper and lower boundary is defined for each fuselage cross-section by the horizontal line including two points at which the fuselage width from the bilateral symmetry plane is maximum.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Japan Aerospace Exploration AgencyInventor: Yoshikazu Makino
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Patent number: 7309047Abstract: Systems and methods for controlling flexible communication links used for aircraft refueling are disclosed. A system in accordance with one aspect of the invention includes a support configured to be carried by an aerial refueling aircraft, and a motion control device carried by the support. A movable aerial refueling boom is positioned proximate to the support and carries an aerial refueling line. A flexible communication link is carried by the boom and is movable with the boom relative to the support. The flexible communication link is coupled to the motion control device wherein the motion control device limits relative motion between the flexible communication link and the support. In particular embodiments, the flexible communication link can include a hydraulic hose or a cable, and the motion control device can include a spring or other forcing member positioned to rotationally urge the flexible communication link toward the support.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Gage B. Crangle, Kim I. Doehring
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Patent number: 7309048Abstract: A vision system and method for use on a refueling tanker to assist a boom operator in performing an airborne refueling operation on a receiver aircraft. The system includes a digital camera system, a sensor subsystem and a processing system that receives information from the sensor system and the camera system. The processing system includes video processing capability and a graphics generator that generates a two dimensional graphics symbology set that is displayed on a display terminal along with a real time image of the boom and the receiver aircraft. The graphics symbology set includes a plurality of graphic symbols that indicate the position of the refueling boom and the position of the receiver aircraft relative to a desired contact zone within which physical contact between the boom tip and a refueling receptacle on the receiver aircraft can be made. The graphics symbology set also makes use of various colors to indicate warning conditions to the boom operator.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: German von Thal, Ronald G Benjamin
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Patent number: 7309049Abstract: An orbital debris shield for protecting the hull of a spacecraft. The shield is comprised of a number of flexible and releasably attached gores that substantially cover the hull. Interleafed between layers of the gores are layers of a spacing material. As debris collides with the gores, the material is shocked and breaks up to some degree. As the shocked debris disperses through a layer of the gore, the spacing material interacts with the debris. After dispersing through a number of layers of the gores and the spacing material, the debris transfers a significant portion of kinetic energy and the probability of the remaining particles piercing the hull is significantly decreased.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Bigelow AerospaceInventor: Robert T. Bigelow
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Patent number: 7309050Abstract: A grooved rail core piece including a core piece intersection area formed by intersecting grooves as an overflow area. The core piece has two construction profiles with interconnected outer fishing surfaces (22,24) extending in a longitudinal direction. In order to enable the intersection area of the core piece to be renewed in a simple manner, the intersection-point area of the core piece includes an interchangeable insert (36) which is arranged in a recess in an at least positive fit, the recess being defined by the sections of the construction profiles and by the sections of the lining parts (30,32) disposed in the outer fishing surfaces (22, 24), and the insert is fixed by means of at least two wedge elements (38, 40) which can be clamped in the lining parts. The lining parts and the construction profiles are connected by means of at least one clamping element protruding there through in a non-positive fit.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignees: BWG GmbH & Co., KG, VAE GmbHInventors: Fridbert Heinze, Thomas Christ, Torsten Reck
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Patent number: 7309051Abstract: The invention provides a height adjustable support or leg assembly for a table or similar object, said assembly having two components, an L-shaped inner leg and a square outer leg constructed to create a perfect fit between them using means for adjusting the height of the assembled unit. The height adjustment means consists of a plurality of holes bored in the outer component and T-nut studs to connect the legs together at specific height adjustment and to secure the components together firmly and safely.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Donald McNeill
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Patent number: 7309052Abstract: The equipment support may include a first support, an actuator arm on the first support, and a second support supporting a piece of equipment. A third support may be provided between the first support and the second support. The first support may be pivotally attached to a fixed point, which may be distant from the use position of the equipment. The second and third support may be rotatably attached to the first support and may be configured for supporting the equipment at a distance from the fixed point. When the equipment support supports a piece of equipment adjacent a bridge, and is pivotably attached to the ground, the user may stand on the ground, and move, pivot, and rotate the supports for moving the equipment from a distant, use position to an adjacent, non-use position above the ground for servicing.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: The Stebbins Engineering and Manufacturing CompanyInventors: David M. Honan, Michael G. Tillman
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Patent number: 7309053Abstract: A hanging module assembly for frames having four frame moldings comprises a hanging bracket, a fixing plate, four circular through holes separately disposed at two adjacent sides of the fixing plate, a pressing portion disposed at the middle of the fixing plate and sunken towards a frame molding, four penetrating holes separately disposed on four sides of the hanging bracket, a face portion protruded from the middle of the hanging bracket and having a cross-shaped through hole. After a transparent plate, a picture, and a board are placed in concave edges of the frame moldings, the circular through holes and penetrating holes are secured into an internal thread hole at distal ends of two adjacent frame moldings by bolts, such that the pressing portion presses and fixes the board, and the cross-shaped through hole of the hanging bracket is mounted onto a wall by screws for simple and quick installations.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Lin Kun Ta Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: Ching-Yi Lin
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Patent number: 7309054Abstract: A clamp assembly is disclosed including a clamp support half having an attachment end, the attachment end engaging a supporting structure, a lower clamp half releasably secured to the clamp support half, and wherein the lower clamp half accommodates an anti-rotation pin to prevent rotation about a longitudinal axis of the clamp assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Taco Metals, Inc.Inventors: Stephen O. Slatter, William E. Kushner, Michael Burnley
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Patent number: 7309055Abstract: A tube flushing device has a shell having a first housing and a second housing connected on a side thereof so as to be movable between an open position and a closed position. A first pair of wheels are rotatably mounted in the first housing. A second pair of wheels rotatably mounted in the second housing. The first pair of wheels engages the second pair of wheels when the housings are in the closed position. The shell has openings on opposite ends thereof. A tube can extend through the openings and between the first and second pair of wheels so as to allow fluids therein to be flushed therefrom as the shell moves along the length of the tube.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventors: Aldona J. Spiegel, Robert S. Troxclair
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Patent number: 7309056Abstract: Integrated micro-valve is formed to control fluid flow and pressure. The valve converts supplied energy to mechanical energy through a means for energy conversion resident above a flexible wall or membrane. In one embodiment a sealed cavity contains a fluid that expands and contracts as it is heated or cooled, thus causing the flexible wall to move. Movement of this wall or membrane is used to move a valve element and dynamically control the opening or closing of a valve port over a predetermined range. Additional means for stiffening are added to the membrane to improve performance.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: SMC Kabushiki KaishaInventors: James M. Harris, Michael Selser, Bradford A. Cozad, Albert K. Henning
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Patent number: 7309057Abstract: A guillotine valve, used for example in pipelines includes a single block body incorporating sealing elements, each in the form of an annular hose section, which are made of an elastomeric material and which are hollow along their entire circumference, each providing an airtight pneumatic circumferential chamber filled with air. Due to the compressibility of the chambers the contact faces of the hose sections deform uniformly in relation to a closing blade. Convex contours on the internal faces of the hose sections result in a further sealing effect due the pressing together of the contact faces by the pressure of the pipeline fluid. The hose sections can each also incorporate a T-shaped metal core comprising an axial portion and a radial portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2003Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Weir Do Brasil Ltda.Inventor: Osvaldo Rodrigues Santiago
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Patent number: 7309058Abstract: A gate valve has a body having a cavity and a stem passage extending from the cavity. A stem extends through the stem passage into the cavity for moving a gate in response to rotation of the stem. A conical backseat seal surface is formed at a junction of the stem passage with the cavity. A backseat seal has a leg extending outward from the stem and away from the stem passage. The leg has an outer surface with a sealing band that is spaced from the backseat seal surface during normal operation of the valve. The leg is flexible, causing the sealing band to deflect into sealing engagement with the backseat seal surface when the stem is moved axially to a backseat sealing position.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Vetco Gray Inc.Inventors: Rick C. Hunter, Daniel D. Comeaux
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Patent number: 7309059Abstract: A hoist apparatus (10) including a rope sensing device (14) for detecting rope fouling events. The rope sensing device (14) includes a lever arm (74) having a first end portion (74g), a second end portion (74h), and a pivot point (74j) located between the first (74g) and second (74h) end portions along the lever arm (74). The lever arm (74) is pivotably mounted to a frame (18) of the hoist apparatus for movement between a sensing position and a fouled position. A follower (78) is connected to the first end portion (74g) and positioned adjacent and spaced from a drum (30) of the hoist apparatus such that rope (38) winds on to the drum spaced from and relative to the follower (78) when the rope sensing device is in the sensing position. A switch actuator (82) is connected to the second end portion (74h) adjacent a switch (86) such that the switch is actuated to a motor stop position when a rope fouling event occurs.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2003Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: MHE Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Joseph A. Marcil
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Patent number: 7309060Abstract: The present invention is a portable wire pulling device that receives and utilizes the rotational power and control features and functions of a cordless, battery-operated electric hand drill to selectively drive a rotatable reel of the portable wire pulling device with sufficient torque and speed to efficiently and quickly pull a wire thereby. The wire pulling device has a frame configured to rotatably carry and selectively position a take-up reel, and a drive interface coupled to the reel and having an input drive shaft configured to receive the hand drill for applying rotational power to the drive mechanism to rotate the reel. No on-site power is needed. The frame extends from a folded position into an upright position and into an angled position in order to pull wire for different applications.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Speedypull, LLCInventors: James E. Baughman, Daniel S. O'Toole
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Patent number: 7309061Abstract: The carburetor prevents an air-fuel mixture from becoming excessively lean and prevents a fuel pressure from becoming unstable, thereby making it possible to stably supply a fuel to an engine, in a diaphragm-type carburetor with a pressure regulator. A diaphragm-type carburetor includes a fuel pump using a pulsation pressure generated in a crank chamber of an engine or an intake pipe as a driving force, and a metering chamber having a diaphragm and a lever mechanism and provided with fuel at a desired constant pressure. The diaphragm-type carburetor includes a bubble discharge path connecting the metering chamber to other predetermined discharge portions and with a check valve in each of an inlet side and an outlet side.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: ZAMA Japan Co., Ltd.Inventor: Satoru Araki
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Patent number: 7309062Abstract: A dehumidification and energy recovery device includes a casing defining an interior that is divided into two vertically stacked sections, a channel extending vertically between the sections and forming upper and lower openings, absorption devices arranged inside the channel corresponding to the sections respectively, and a tank arranged below the lower opening of the channel and containing a liquid that is driven by a pump to a position above the upper opening of the channel to drop onto and flow through the absorption devices. Intake airflow and exhaust airflow respectively pass through the sections, contacting the liquid flowing through the channel in a cross-flow fashion, whereby exchange of humidity and heat is performed between the airflows and the liquid to effect dehumidification and energy recovery with a simple structure and low costs.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Wen-Feng Lin
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Patent number: 7309063Abstract: A gas-filled spring (1) operates using gas (13, 14) and may be intended for a motor cycle. The gas-filled spring comprises a cylinder (2) and a piston (4), said cylinder comprising a compression chamber and a return chamber (8, 9). An arrangement maintains the necessary quantities of gas and gas pressure settings or differential pressures in the chambers despite any gas leakage and temperature variations occurring. Arranged between the chambers is a passage (12), which is open only in a predetermined position of the cylinder and the piston relative to one another. In the open position gas transfer between the chambers and/or pressure equalization in or differential pressure adjustment of the gas pressures in the chambers are permitted. The invention also relates to a valve for counteracting rapid changes in leakage and temperature. The desired spring characteristic of the gas-filled spring can in this way be maintained despite leakage and temperature variations.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2003Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Ohlins Racing ABInventor: Johan Söderdahl
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Patent number: 7309064Abstract: A puzzle that provides for rearranging different pieces to form a pattern formed from the pieces is disclosed. The puzzle includes at least one generally trilateral piece having three sides, and at least one generally quadrilateral piece. At least two of the sides of the quadrilateral piece have been adapted for engaging the friction enhancing surface on the trilateral piece, so that by surrounding the fixed hub with the trilateral pieces that are separated by the quadrilateral pieces, a continuous round gear surface is formed, that can be used to rotate the trilateral and the quadrilateral pieces together.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Douglas A. Engel
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Patent number: 7309065Abstract: A multi-player automated casino table card game platform enables play of casino table baccarat-type games according to rules effected through a processor. Rules may include games similar to Baccarat or Mini Baccarat with an optional side bet on a point spread between the player and bank hands.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Shuffle Master, Inc.Inventors: Mark L. Yoseloff, R. Brooke Dunn, Philip S. Smith, Roger M. Snow
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Patent number: 7309066Abstract: A casino wagering game where at least one player has the options to either place multiple wagers against a dealer and/or banker (the house) in a game, to qualify for a pre-determined Bonus schedule, or both. However, uniquely by the design of the present invention, each participating player is initially dealt three cards creating at least two separate hands. Specifically, one of those cards dealt to each player is considered a “shared card” in its relationship to each of the other two cards dealt to that player. Within the dealing, the house is dealt one hand of two cards. According to another aspect, the three cards initially dealt to each player, defined as at least two separate hands, may be treated separately in a Bonus game offered for an additional or separate wager. After the initial Bonus aspect of the game is resolved, a game defined by the house ensues.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Frederic Wayne Donaldson
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Patent number: 7309067Abstract: An input shaft, a stepless speed change unit, a forward-reverse switching mechanism, and an output shaft are arranged in that order in a power transmitting path of a continuously variable transmission. The forward-reverse switching mechanism includes i) a gear mechanism having a sun gear which rotates in the same direction as the rotation output from the stepless speed change unit, a carrier which is always fixed (stationary), and a ring gear which rotates in the reverse direction, ii) a clutch between the sun gear and the output shaft, and iii) a clutch between the ring gear and the output shaft. This structure enables the transmission of power between the gear mechanism and the stepless speed change unit and the vehicle drive wheels to be interrupted by the clutches when the vehicle is being towed or is stopped suddenly, and also obviates the need for a brake able to withstand a large amount of torque.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.Inventor: Akihiko Kita
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Patent number: 7309068Abstract: A rubber gasket to be disposed in a compressed state between separators of a fuel cell includes a sealing portion having a sectional shape of a two-projection structure with a first projection having a curved slope of a first curvature radius (D), and a second projection provided on the first projection and having a second curvature radius (H). A pedestal portion extends in a horizontal direction with a predetermined thickness continuously from a foot portion of the curved slope of the first projection and has a flat bottom surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignees: Nichias Corporation, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Toru Segawa, Atsushi Omura, Katsuya Kusuno, Tetsuo Ohinata, Chisato Kato, Toshiyuki Suzuki, Naohiro Takeshita, Yasuyuki Asai
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Patent number: 7309069Abstract: The present invention discloses a roller assembly of an in-line roller skate, the roller assembly comprising a roller frame and a plurality of roller wheels, of at least two different sizes, which are fastened pivotally with the roller frame, such that the roller assembly may rock forwards and backwards upon a surface.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Sport Maska Inc.Inventor: Stephen Murphy
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Patent number: 7309070Abstract: An operation arm built on one side or a plurality of sides of a hand cart provided with a wheel, includes an operation section touched by an operator, and a support extending from the operation section to the hand cart, and supporting the operation section against the hand cart, and also includes a rear inclined portion inclined from an upper end of the support toward the rear side at a predetermined angle, and a grip continuous with the rear inclined portion, extending in directions crossing the forward direction and the backward direction, an extension of the grip inclined to the front side with respect to the support and formed into a circular arc shape. By so constituting, a manual pushing force is efficiently transmitted to the hand cart and an operator can operate the operation arm in a comfortable posture.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Hanaoka Sharyo Co., Ltd.Inventor: Toru Hanaoka
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Patent number: 7309071Abstract: An exercise stroller device for exercising a user's arms, shoulders, and chest muscles while walking, strolling, or running with an infant is provided. The exercise stroller device comprises a base unit, a plurality of wheels secured to the base unit, and a seat secured to the base unit with the infant receivable within the seat. A first handle is pivotally mounted to the base unit and a second handle is pivotally mounted to the base unit opposite the first handle.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Tammy Michael
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Patent number: 7309072Abstract: A water caddy for capturing, containing, transporting, and emptying a fluid includes an open top fluid container pivotally attached to a cabinet set on wheels. The fluid container is pivotable between a fill position in which the container receives fluid through the open top and an empty position in which fluid is emptied from the container through the open top without having to lift any portion of the cabinet. A pneumatic actuator interconnecting the cabinet and fluid container assists the user in emptying the fluid container by urging the fluid container toward its empty position. The water caddy 10 may be dimensioned to enable a user to conveniently empty captured fluid directly into an existing floor toilet. One or more brakes are employed to inhibit inadvertent movement of the water caddy as it is being filled or emptied.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: David B. Storm
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Patent number: 7309073Abstract: A rack shaft has a rolling contact surface on the opposite side of rack teeth across an axis line X, and a pair of slanted surfaces extending in parallel with the axis line across the rolling contact surface. Furthermore, a roller rolling on the rolling contact surface of the rack shaft and an urging member having contact with the pair of slanted surfaces for applying an urging force are provided. The urging member is attached to the housing, forms an annular configuration surrounding the entire circumference of the rack shaft, and has contact portions having contact with the pair of slanted surfaces to apply the urging force.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2003Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: NSK, Ltd.Inventor: Noboru Nishiko
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Patent number: 7309074Abstract: A stabilizer control device comprises a pair of a first stabilizer bar and a second stabilizer bar, an actuator the actuator including a first member and a second member, the first member including a bearing portion to which the first stabilizer bar is connected, the second member to which the second stabilizer bar is connected so as to generate a rotation relative to the first member, a spline shaft portion having a first external spline formed on the first stabilizer bar, an internal spline formed on an inner peripheral surface of the bearing portion of the first member, a groove portion is formed on a part of the spline shaft portion, and a toothed elastic member provided in the groove portion so as to fit to the internal spline of the bearing portion.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Akiya Taneda
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Patent number: 7309075Abstract: A trailer hitch alignment device which allows a user to easily align a hitch of a vehicle with a trailer hitch of a trailer. The trailer hitch alignment device includes a control unit with a display that is viewable by the driver of a vehicle, a sensor releasably positioned on a ball hitch of the vehicle, and another sensor releasably positioned over a socket hitch of the trailer. At least one of the sensor and the another sensor communicates with the control unit. The control unit display displays the relative position of the sensor to the another sensor.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventors: J. Edward Ramsey, John S. Betts
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Patent number: 7309076Abstract: A hitch assembly to be connected between a tow vehicle and a trailer includes a first shaft adapted to be attached to said tow vehicle, the first shaft being stationary with respect to the tow vehicle, a second shaft for mounting a ball to accept the trailer and being rotatable about the first shaft, wherein the first shaft and the second shaft are rotatable connected to rotate with respect to each other. A hitch assembly adapted to be connected between the tow vehicle and the trailer additionally includes a first shaft adapted to be attached to the tow vehicle, the first shaft being at a fixed relationship with respect to the tow vehicle and to rotate about an axis of the first shaft and a second shaft for mounting a ball to accept said trailer and being rotatable about the first shaft.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Daniel L. Allen
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Patent number: 7309077Abstract: A device for receiving a foot or a boot onto a sports apparatus, the device including a support adapted to be located between the sole of the foot or the boot sole and the apparatus. The support includes a retractable abutment and a shock-absorbing arrangement, the abutment opposing the compression of the support up to a set value of the support compression force, the abutment retracting when the support compression force exceeds the set value, the shock-absorbing arrangement being biased beyond this set value.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Salomon S.A.Inventor: Bernard Couderc
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Patent number: 7309078Abstract: A vehicle with a curtain air bag includes a roof side rail of the vehicle, the curtain air bag being mounted along said roof side rail, and a seat belt anchor fastened together with the curtain air bag on the roof side rail.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Mitsubishi Jidosha Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshitaka Nagata
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Patent number: 7309079Abstract: A method of determining a charging capacitance of a capacitor in an air bag system having an electronic control unit for controlling a gas generator, a bus line having a loop wire extending from the electronic control unit, gas generators connected to the loop wire, each gas generator having an igniter connected to the loop wire via a connector, one of the igniter and the connector being provided with an integrated circuit having the capacitor for providing power to a heat generating portion, a switching circuit for turning ON/OFF a supplying of current to the heat generating portion, and a microcomputer unit for controlling the switching circuit, the method including, determining a minimum charging capacitance of the capacitor necessary to operate the igniter based on a charging voltage and a minimum ignition energy required for making the heat generating portion of the igniter generate heat to ignite the priming.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Daicel Chemical Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Mitsuyasu Okamoto, Shingo Oda
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Patent number: 7309080Abstract: An extendable arm that extends from a police vehicle towards a pulled over vehicle. The arm allows for two-way communication or document transfer. The police officer can position the extendable arm while seated in the vehicle. The extendable arm includes a main shaft having first and second opposed ends. The first end is pivotally attached to the vehicle. A telescoping assembly extends from the second end. The assembly has a free end that extends and retracts away from and towards the main shaft. The free end can have an accessory mounted thereon, such as a two-way audio visual camera, or a container for the retention of driver's licenses. During operation the distal end can be positioned adjacent the driver's window or the police officer's window. The free end is retracted, and the shaft is placed in a stowed position adjacent the motor vehicle when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Gary W. Mein
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Patent number: 7309081Abstract: An off road vehicle comprises a front frame joined to a rear frame by a swivel rotates about a longitudinal axis. Springs are mounted to a horizontal planar structure and to the rear frame. The springs maintain the front frame to rear frame alignment but allows rotation between the front frame and the rear frame. A steering column extends upwardly and forwardly from a front axle having two wheels mounted laterally therefrom. The is connected to the two front wheels to turn in a desired direction. Front springs connect the axle to the steering column. A pair of shock absorbers connect the axle proximate to the wheels and the steering column. The pair of front springs and the pair of shock absorbers, in combination, maintain the front frame alignment to the axle but allow rotation between the front frame and the axle.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: David A. Zuhlsdorf
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Patent number: 7309082Abstract: A document sheet with a removably attached object thereon having simplified inexpensive construction and having a reduced cross-sectional thickness enabling use of the sheet in printers without the risk of jamming the printer. The document sheet also allows both sides of the object to be printed prior to its removal from the sheet with preferably at least 60% of the rear surface being accessible for printing through the use of an indentation window.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Paul R. Edwards
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Patent number: 7309083Abstract: A female element for a quick connection for removably joining pipes of fluid under pressure and which is adapted to receive a male element. The female element includes at least one locking member movable within a guide channel that extends transverse with respect to an axis of fit of the male and female elements and which member has one end which is configured and adapted to be cooperatively engaged in a peripheral groove of the male element. The locking member is also provided with a tab which projects radially with respect to a body of the female element and which is cooperatively engaged by two portions of a control ring that is movable over the body of the female element in order to move the locking member within the guide channel between an inner locking position and an outer release position.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2004Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Staubli FavergesInventors: Alain-Christophe Tiberghien, Antoine Chambaud
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Patent number: 7309084Abstract: A quick connect and disconnect pipe coupling and seal assembly including a first generally cylindrical coupling head having a bore therein for connection to a first conduit and a raised annular ring, a second generally cylindrical coupling head having a bore therein for connection to a second conduit, external male threads, and an annular recess for receiving an o-ring, and a generally cylindrical coupling ring for holding the first coupling head therein, the coupling ring having a threaded bore for receipt of the external male threads of the second coupling head to connect the first coupling head to the second coupling head and to force the o-ring received in the annular recess of the second coupling head into contact with the annular ring on the first coupling head to form a high pressure seal between the first coupling head and the second coupling head.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Charles M. Cooke, Jr.
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Patent number: 7309085Abstract: A threaded pipe coupling for connecting a pipe to a connection part with a conical exterior surface, especially for connecting copper pipes in refrigeration technology, with a sleeve-shaped union nut to form a threaded coupling with the connection part and a clamping ring arranged within the union nut. To enable an easy-to-realize coupling also without additional elements and without preliminary work, the clamping ring has a conical inner surface, corresponding to the conical exterior surface of the connection part, with a sealing bead coming into contact with the conical exterior surface of the connection part.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2003Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Kulm Holding AGInventor: Pirmin Westermann
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Patent number: 7309086Abstract: Disclosed is a uni-knot tying device. The device includes a stator, a hollow cylindrical rotor which is rotatably mounted on the stator, and a rotating drive operatively coupled to the rotor. The rotor has a proximal end and a distal end, and includes a longitudinal slot extending from the proximal end to the distal end. The device also includes a line locking member facing the proximal end of the rotor, as well as a tackle securing member and a line centering member facing the distal end of the rotor. Fishing line is threaded through the hollow cylindrical rotor and then looped around the same, forming a uni-knot.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventor: Calvin Carrier
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Patent number: 7309087Abstract: A latch assembly kit including a latching subassembly, a first actuating assembly having a first configuration and normal and release states, and a second actuating assembly having a second configuration and normal and release states. The latching subassembly has a latched state, and a release state. The first actuating assembly is mountable on the first side of a movable closure element and causes the latching subassembly to change from its latched state into its release state as an incident of the first actuating assembly changing from its normal state into its release state. The second actuating assembly is mountable in place of the first actuating assembly and causes the latching subassembly to change from its latched state into its release state as an incident of the second actuating assembly changing from its normal state into its release state.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2002Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Tri/Mark CorporationInventors: Christopher M. Lane, Craig Helton, Dennis J. Zweibohmer, Joe Daniel Knight, Ricci L. Marzolf
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Patent number: 7309088Abstract: A dual purpose tool for both removing the cover plate of a pool skimmer then removing the basket therein to avoid the dangers of human contact with the contents of the skimmer basket. The tool consists of a substantially stiff elongate member with dual purpose hooks located at opposite ends. One hook is designed for removing the skimmer cover through insertion into the skimmer cover hole located at its center while the opposite end is designed to hook around the skimmer basket handle for removal of the basket. The tool can be configured in multiple lengths to accommodate skimmers for above and in-ground pools.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2006Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Inventors: Sharon Fiore, Alex Fiore
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Patent number: 7309089Abstract: A vacuum cup for a material handling system includes a body portion and a perimeter seal that functions to substantially seal against an object. The vacuum cup may transport the object when a partial vacuum is applied to the vacuum cup to retain the cup to the object. The vacuum cup includes a relief port and sealing member that function to at least partially relieve the vacuum from the vacuum cup to allow the vacuum cup to be detached from the object with a reduced force, even while the vacuum is applied. The sealing member may engage a surface of the object to close the relief port. When the vacuum cup is initially pulled or moved away from the object, the sealing member is at least partially separated from the object and allows the cavity to be vented to at least partially relieve the vacuum within the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Delaware Capital Formation, Inc.Inventors: Maurice Perlman, Keith S Attee
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Patent number: 7309090Abstract: A bodywork element comprising a skin and an original grille integrally molded with the element. The original grille can be replaced by a replacement grille that takes its place in the skin.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2005Date of Patent: December 18, 2007Assignee: Compagnie Plastic OmniumInventor: Jean Troton