Patents Issued in December 25, 2007
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Patent number: 7311023Abstract: A replaceable-head, dental care tool is disclosed, of the type including a handle element (1) and a tool element, the tool element including an engaging extension (10) having at least one flexible reed element (11) equipped with an end pawl (12), and the handle element comprising an engagement seat (2) for the engaging extension (10) which has a shoulder (2b?) able to retain the pawl (12), as well as an activation button (5) in the shape of a separate button and capable of pushing on the pawl (12) to disengage it from the shoulder (2b?), the seat (2) being externally surrounded by an edge (4) of soft elastic material wherein the button (5) is circumferentially enclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Ponzini S.p.A.Inventor: Eligio Ponzini
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Patent number: 7311024Abstract: A tool for assisting a user in removing machinery cutting blades includes an upper and a lower handle that operate and lock an upper movable jaw. A fixed jaw is secured to the lower handle. The upper movable jaw includes a prong for tightly engaging the top surface of a bolt, and a clamp member adjacent thereto for tightly engaging the upper surface of a machine blade. By manipulating the handles, a user can lock the upper jaw prong against the machine blade bolt allowing a user to remove a nut attached thereto.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2007Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Donald D. Piel
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Patent number: 7311025Abstract: Powered drivers and methods are disclosed, the drivers including a head housing a motor driven drive transfer assembly for operating a rotatable socket engageable at a threaded connector. A reaction unit having a fitting engagement attached to rail guides is movably maintained through the head. A biasing unit is maintained at the head and is operatively associated with the rail guides of the reaction unit to bias the fitting engagement of the reaction unit toward the rotatable socket during tightening rotation of the engaged threaded connector. A probe and switch are associated with different ones of the reaction unit and the head, and are brought into operative association at selected relative locations of the reaction unit and the head during connector rotation to cause motor cessation.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: American Power Tool CompanyInventor: David Wilson, Jr.
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Patent number: 7311026Abstract: A screw head and screwdriver for use in combination are provided to reduce the occurrence of stripping a screw head during tightening or removing the screw. The head slot employs slot walls that indent in some portion of the wall, the indent portion forming a ledge under which the screwdriver tip may be retentively captured thereby preventing the tip from lifting from the screw slot and stripping the screw head. The screw slot and driver also generally employ a tapered form, such that the slot widens from a central portion out to the outer circumferential edges. The narrow portion of the slot matching in form a narrow portion of the driver tip such that the driver tip tends not to slide off the screw head during use. Utilizing these inventive design concepts prevents the screwdriver tip from slipping off the head and resulting in the need to apply less downward pressure.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Joshua Robert Melton
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Patent number: 7311027Abstract: An electric screwdriver capable of reducing the reactive force produced on the occasion of a screw tightening work, etc. The electric screwdriver is designed to transmit the rotational driving force of a first motor to the bit through a bit holder, and it includes a flywheel rotatively driven by a second motor in the direction same as the direction of rotation of the bit holder, a brake generating a reactive force in the direction offsetting the reactive force transmitted from the bit to the body casing through the bit holder, by braking the flywheel, and a brake operating mechanism for operating the brake in response to the magnitude of the reactive force transmitted from the bit to the body casing through the bit holder.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Uryu Seisaku Ltd.Inventor: Koji Tatsuno
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Patent number: 7311028Abstract: A gear and shaft assembly that translates the bevel of a power tool to an indicator more easily readable by an operator provides a front bevel indicator and locking mechanism. A locking mechanism is conveniently placed within reach of the operator and directly controls the motion of the gear assembly. The front bevel indicator may provide a higher resolution of the tilt angle by selection of the various gear ratios of the gears that translate the bevel position of the power tool mounted in the rear to the front of the mount of the power tool.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2003Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventors: Jaime Garcia, Vance Roe
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Patent number: 7311029Abstract: A quick-pin blade tensioning device for a band saw comprises a sliding tension bracket coupled with an upper arm of the band saw. The sliding tension bracket engages an upper band wheel which has a band saw blade coupled to it. A lifting shoe, slidably disposed within the upper arm, imparts movement to the sliding tension bracket. A pin moves the lifting shoe through rotational movement of the pin imparted by a coupling with a tension crank. The tension crank, disposed within the upper arm, has rotational movement imparted to it through a coupling with a tension handle enabled with multiple positions.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2003Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.Inventor: Rockne W. Behne
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Patent number: 7311030Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of optimizing setting parameters for braiding a shielding sheath using spindles carrying coils of wires on a braiding machine, the sheath being braided onto a bundle of electrical conductors, and the invention also relates to such a bundle. According to the invention, the method consists in determining for each diameter in a series (s1) of consecutive electrical conductor bundle diameters, a single group (N) of spindles and a single group (M) of braiding wires so as to minimize the number of actions that need to be taken in order to adapt the machine to braiding a required diameter.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: EurocopterInventor: Thierry Renaud
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Patent number: 7311031Abstract: A stent includes regions of differing numbers of braided filaments to provide different dimensions and/or properties in different regions along the stent length. The stent may include a first and second plurality of braided filaments each braided together. The second plurality of braided filaments is braided into the first plurality of braided filaments to form a region of different properties than the first. A method of constructing a braided stent includes the steps of braiding a first plurality of filaments to form the flexible portion, combining a second plurality of filaments to the first plurality of filaments, and then braiding the second plurality of filaments with the first plurality of filaments to form the more rigid region from the combination of the first and second plurality of filaments, where the second plurality of filaments is braided only in the rigid region.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2007Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Scimed Life Systems, Inc.Inventors: Orla McCullagh, William R. Quinn
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Patent number: 7311032Abstract: Firearms employing gas pressure loading mechanisms are disclosed. An example firearm includes a single force receiving component containing a gas cylinder, and a barrel in communication with a cartridge chamber received in the force receiving component. The cartridge chamber is in communication with a gas withdrawal-opening and is sized to fire cartridges having a caliber of at least 15 mm. The firearm also includes a bore in communication with the gas withdrawal opening and the gas cylinder. Further, the firearm includes a locking bolt having a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking bolt engages the single force receiving component when the locking bolt is in the locked position.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Heckler & Koch, GmbHInventor: Johannes Murello
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Patent number: 7311033Abstract: A retroactive device as part of a hydraulic servo-steering system that also includes a hydraulic servo-valve device, the retroactive device comprising an arrangement for hydraulically producing a restoring moment into a central position that produces the restoring moment as a function of the pressure differential between a pressure side and a low-pressure side. The system has at least one valve arrangement that, when pressure is applied in the central position of the servo-valve, is adapted to produce a pressure differential between the external and internal chambers of the valve. The valve arrangement is disposed hydraulically in series with the retroactive device.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: ThyssenKrupp Presta SteerTec GmbHInventors: Edwin Breuning, Carmine Cioppi, Jens Stolzenburg
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Patent number: 7311034Abstract: The invention relates to a hydraulic device having, in a housing, a rotor, which can rotate about a first axis, with pistons, drum sleeves, which can rotate about a second axis and have a chamber formed by a cylindrical wall and a piston. Between the housing and the drum sleeves there is a face plate. The chamber is connected to a line connection via a first passage, of which a face-plate port forms part. Between the face plate and the drum sleeve there is a drum plate which can rotate with the drum sleeves and has drum ports which form part of the first passage.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Innas B.V.Inventor: Peter A. J. Achten
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Patent number: 7311035Abstract: The invention relates to the field of offshore subsea oil and gas drilling and production operations. Specifically the invention relates to a hydraulically and/or mechanically driven junction plate actuator suitable for use in connecting and/or disconnecting a dynamic junction box half to a fixed junction box assembly.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Oceaneering International, Inc.Inventor: Graeme Edwin Reynolds
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Patent number: 7311036Abstract: A pneumatic cylinder has a shaft member having a piston and a piston rod combined with each other in an axial direction, a cylinder body supporting the shaft member with the piston rod protruding outwardly therefrom so as to freely reciprocate linearly, and porous air bearings and which are incorporated into the cylinder body and slidably support the piston and the piston rod. Materials whose thermal expansion coefficients are approximately equivalent are used for the shaft member, the cylinder body, and the air bearings. While gaps between the shaft member and the air bearings are held constant, and the functions of air layers formed in the gap, namely, a sliding function and a sealing function can be maintained stably regardless of temperature change.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2003Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Koganei CorporationInventor: Makoto Uchino
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Patent number: 7311037Abstract: A method comprises the steps of: providing an electric coffee brewing machine; providing a single-use, disposable brew basket, inserting the disposable brew basket into the electric coffee brewing machine; brewing a single cup of coffee with the electric coffee brewing machine; and discarding the disposable brew basket after the single cup of coffee has been brewed. The electric coffee brewing machine has a cold water reservoir, an electric heating element for heating the water, and a basket receiving recess. The disposable brew basket has a bottom wall and at least one side wall extending generally upwardly from the bottom wall to define a brewing reservoir for receiving heated water from the electric coffee brewing machine. The bottom wall of the basket has at least one port located in a central portion thereof to permit brewed coffee to flow from the disposable brew basket. The disposable brew basket is inserted into the basket receiving recess of the electric coffee brewing machine before brewing.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Courtesy Products, LLCInventor: Douglas A. Albrecht
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Patent number: 7311038Abstract: Improved features for a filter system for a deep fat fryer are described. The fryer includes a movable filter pan disposed below the cooking tank which is fed by gravity when the tank is drained through a downspout. The downspout is curved and rotatable from a down position when it is in use/storage to an up position when it is not in use and a stabilizing clip is mounted on the downspout to secure a separate polishing tube when it is in the down or horizontal position to allow one handle to lift two pipes at the same time for removal of the filter pan. An inline removable filter is provided in the oil return line, and the return line is slidably supported on the side of the filter pan so that it can rise and fall with the debris in the filter pan.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2003Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Pitco Frialater, Inc.Inventors: Steven J. Savage, Nathaniel A. Lambert, Martin W. Lawrence, Robert L. Brown
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Patent number: 7311039Abstract: Vibration is prevented in a multi-nip calender (1) or an array of multi-nip calendars. Each calender has a lower roll (3; 40), an upper roll (3; 30) and two or more intermediate rolls. A fiber web is conveyed through the closed roll nips of the calenders. The intermediate rolls (3) have load-relieving apparatus and the upper roll (3; 30) and the lower roll (3; 40) have loading apparatus, while loading apparatus are connected to the lower roll (3; 40) and/or the upper roll (3; 30) for loading these rolls from the outside in a direction parallel with the calender plane. The running parameters (9) influencing the calendering impulse of one or more selected roll nips (N) are intermittently or continuously changed, such that the overall calendering impulse (9) of the calender or calender array and/or the quality variables (21) of the fiber web remain substantially constant and/or within predetermined limits.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Metso Paper, Inc.Inventor: Timo Vuorimies
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Patent number: 7311040Abstract: A cylindrical baling press including a roller around which a belt is arranged to partially surround a baling chamber. In the region of the roller, the belt relinquishes contact with a cylindrical bale being formed within the baling chamber. In this region of the roller, a lateral wall enclosing the pressing chamber is provided with a bulge or an opening, which makes it possible for material present in a space between two belt sections to be engaged by the rotating cylindrical bale and expelled through the opening or back into the bale. This configuration avoids, or at least reduces, the chance of jamming caused by crop materials around the roller.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Jean Viaud
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Patent number: 7311041Abstract: A printing device contains a printing medium supporting member having a supporting face for supporting a printing medium; a screen plate fitting detachably onto said supporting face in a state where the printing medium is sandwiched between said screen plate and said supporting face of said printing medium supporting member; and an ink emission section for emitting ink onto the printing medium on said supporting face. A printing system has the printing device described above, and ink color determining means for setting the color of the ink used in printing by means of said screen plate to a lighter color than the ink used in printing by means of said ink emission section. A printing method contains the step of screen printing for printing onto a printing medium by means of a screen plate, and the step of ink emitting for emitting ink of a darker color than the ink used in said screen printing step, onto the screen printed region, from an ink emission section.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Akiko Niimi
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Patent number: 7311042Abstract: A stencil screen platemaking apparatus for a heat-sensitive platemaking method, having a thermal head retaining frame to which a thermal head is attached arranged to oppose a platen roller retaining frame having a platen roller attached thereto, and a stepping motor, in a manner permitting contact and separation between the thermal head and the platen roller. In the separated state of the thermal head and the platen roller, an art work material is arranged between both retaining frames, so that the screen is pinched between the thermal head and the platen roller. Then, the platen roller is driven and revolved so that platemaking is performed in a state that the thermal head is maintained at a fixed position and that the art work material is moved.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Shigeharu Mori
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Patent number: 7311043Abstract: The invention relates to a data carrier with a security printed image produced by intaglio printing. The security printed image consists of a plurality of contrasting structural elements disposed in exact register. A first part of the structural elements is designed to be relieflike and tactile and a second part of the structural elements flat and nontactile.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2000Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Giesecke & Devrient GmbHInventors: Karlheinz Mayer, Roger Adamczyk, Peter Franz, Eckhard Braun
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Patent number: 7311044Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a cooling system in an imaging device having an element that generates heat. The cooling system comprises a thermoelectric generator and a cooling device. The thermoelectric generator is thermally coupled to the element to convert the heat generated by the element to electrical energy. The cooling device is powered by the electrical energy to thereby cool the imaging device.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2003Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Mark Hirst, Richard Lee Swantner
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Patent number: 7311045Abstract: Multicolor image, formed from at least two component images, are printed on non-planar surfaces of edible pieces by maintaining registration of the pieces from one printing station to another. The registration is maintained by firmly securing the pieces to the transporting surface by applying a pressure differential, by a combination of a pressure differential with a resilient surface, or by trapping the pieces between a retaining member and a recess portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignees: Ackley Machine Corp., Mars, Inc.Inventors: E. Michael Ackley, Jr., Samuel J. Louden, James M. Suttle, Michael E. Webster, Neil A. Willcocks, Michael S. Wozniak
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Patent number: 7311046Abstract: The invention relates to a bullet for infantry ammunition comprising a bullet core (1), a bullet tip (13), and a metal case (2). The aim of the invention is to create a durable connection between the bullet core (1) and the metal case (2). To this end, the metal case (2) is a shell, which is open at the front and which is pulled onto the bullet core (1) from the rear. The bullet tip (13) projects away from the metal case (2), and a constriction (4) is provided on the bullet core (1). The case end (5) that is open at the front projects into this constriction.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2002Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Ruag Ammotec GmbHInventors: Heinz Riess, Erich Muskat, Erich Zeiher
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Patent number: 7311047Abstract: An expanding table of the type in which a number of table top sections are caused to move outwardly and expand on rotation of the table top. The table top sections are coupled to a guide plate, which defines the positions between which the sections move. The guide plate is mounted for rotation and engages low friction rub blocks mounted along the inner perimeter of the outer edge of the table. The table top sections themselves are mounted on guides, which are at least partially received in the guide plate. Once the table top sections have been moved into the expanded configuration by rotation of the table top, table leaves are inserted in the spaces between adjacent table top sections to form a larger contiguous table surface.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Century Furniture LLCInventors: James R. Conley, Andrew D. Rudisill
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Patent number: 7311048Abstract: An adjustable table assembly incorporating pneumatics. In one aspect, the table assembly includes a table surface that is adjustable in a vertical direction and further includes wheels for transportation. In other aspects, the table assembly includes a step assembly as well as slots and magnetized compartments for receiving and storing tools.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Alltrade Tools, LLCInventor: Walter W. Kopala, Jr.
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Patent number: 7311049Abstract: The present invention regards a conveyor/cooler for hot loose materials produced by boilers and various industrial processes, mainly comprising a sealed metal container (1) connected to a boiler (2) or to an incinerator from which, thanks to the gravitational effect, the material (3) that leaves the combustion chamber falls. Inside of said container (1) a metal conveyor belt (4) is placed whereon the hot loose material (3) to be cooled is placed. The cooling of the material (3) occurs through the feeding of an air flow picked up from the outside environment integrated with atomized water sprinkled on the hot material (3) through a system of injecting nozzles (5) installed inside of the metal container (1).Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2003Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Magaldi Ricerche E Brevetti S.r.L.Inventor: Mario Magaldi
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Patent number: 7311050Abstract: The configuration of a feedstock material is controlled by bringing it into contact with at least a first gas moving against it at a location with an area and thickness of the feedstock liquid that forms drops or fibers of a selected size. In one embodiment, drops of agricultural input materials are formed for spraying on agricultural fields. In another embodiment, nanofibers of materials such as chitosan or metals are formed. In another embodiment seeds are planted with gel.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Kamterter II, L.L.C.Inventors: John Alvin Eastin, David Vu
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Patent number: 7311051Abstract: Sewing machine provided with an indication device including a display that is so large that the lower leftward portion protrudes into the stitch working area of the machine. The display may be moved up and down by of a switch and may be moved up until the lower end side of the display aligns with the lower end side of the machine arm and may be stopped at an upper optional position. At the lowest position, the upper end side of display has the upper side located in alignment with the top side of machine body and has the front side plane planar with the front side of the arm and has the lateral end side planar with the lateral end side of the machine body. The display has no part protruding from the machine body at the lowest position, and is thus placed compactly in the machine frame of machine body.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Janome Sewing Machine Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masashi Ninomiya, Tsutomu Takagi, Koshiro Omiya, Takehiro Kodama
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Patent number: 7311052Abstract: Disclosed is a needle plate for a double-needle sewing machine. The needle plate includes a partition extending downward between the needle holes and provided with a thin plate insertion slit in an intermediate portion thereof, and a thin plate inserted into the thin plate insertion slit. Thus, the rigidity of a thin wall formed between the needle holes is reinforced by providing the partition and the thin plate inserted into the partition between the needle holes, so that stitches can be formed in parallel without breakage of the needle plate even when the interval between the needle holes is less than 2 mm.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Sunstar Machinery Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hyun Sung Kim
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Patent number: 7311053Abstract: The invention regards a multipurpose support vessel (1), comprising a hull (2) with a bow (3) and a stern (4) and with a propulsion arrangement (5), a bridge (6) and accommodation quarters (7) and storage areas (8) for loads and cargo. On the vessel (1) the bridge (6) and accommodation quarters (7), which forms a superstructure, are located in the aft part of the vessel (1). Almost all storage areas (8) for loads and cargo are positioned between the superstructure (6,7) and the bow section (3) of the vessel. The invention also regards a method for loading/unloading the vessel (1) at an offshore installation.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Vik - Sandvik ASInventor: Trygve Eiken
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Patent number: 7311054Abstract: A liquid containment system for an ocean-going vessel. The liquid containment system includes a tank having converging upper walls. The converging upper walls of the tank contain a substantial portion of the liquid therebetween and reduce the free surface area associated with the liquid. The upper converging walls of the tank extend above the horizontal deck of the vessel, but still allow sufficient deck space for supporting various required equipment. In one embodiment, the liquid containment system is a prismatic membrane tank designed to receive and hold liquefied natural gas (LNG).Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Conocophillips CompanyInventors: Peter G. Noble, Robert A. Levine, Christopher T. Chipuk, Edward G. Stokes
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Patent number: 7311055Abstract: A deep-water intake system includes a water intake duct (7) which is connected to a turret (4) of a turret-moored vessel (1). The turret (4) is used as a swivel for the large-diameter deep-water intake duct (7) while the vessel can freely weathervane around the turret.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Single Buoy Moorings Inc.Inventors: Hans Peereboom, Leendert Poldervaart, Hein Wille
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Patent number: 7311056Abstract: An apparatus for towing cargo behind a watercraft that includes a floating assembly for towing behind the watercraft and comprising a frame and at least one floatation device mounted on the frame. The apparatus further includes a linking assembly mounted on the floating assembly for linking the floating assembly to the watercraft. The linking assembly comprises a pair of longitudinal linking elements, with each of the linking elements having a forward end and a rear end. The rearward end of each of the linking elements is mounted on the floating assembly and extends forwardly from the floating assembly for mounting on the watercraft.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Robert Krogstad
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Patent number: 7311057Abstract: The present invention relates to a surface effect craft comprising a supporting deck structure having two pontoons mounted thereto in catamaran like fashion. A propulsion mechanism is mounted to a rear portion of the deck structure. A lift control member is disposed under the deck structure between the two pontoons. The lift control member is pivotally movable mounted to the front portion of the deck structure. A lift adjust mechanism pivotally moves the lift control member between a first position with the rear end of the lift control member being in close proximity to the surface and a second position with the rear end of the lift control member being in close proximity to the deck structure. Employment of the lift control member enables the craft to achieve surface effect at low speed and, furthermore, allows control of the aerodynamic lift in a wide range from maximum lift to negative lift.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: David Murphy
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Patent number: 7311058Abstract: A trim tab control system adapted to adjust trim tabs to optimize the velocity of a water vessel. The trim tab control system is adapted to have a tilt sensor and a velocity sensor in communication with the microcontroller where the microcontroller records the position of the trim tabs based on trim tab adjustments that the trim tab control system initiates, as well as trim tab adjustments initiated by the helmsman of the water vessel.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventors: Bob Brooks, Jim Mateer
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Patent number: 7311059Abstract: A watercraft hull has at least one bent entrapment tunnel with an aft portion whose tunnel ceiling is at a higher elevation than portions of the tunnel ceiling immediately in front of it to provide a negative angle of attack with the free surface at design planing speeds.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Navatek, Ltd.Inventors: Steven Loui, Scott Yamashita, Gary Shimozono
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Patent number: 7311060Abstract: Embodiments of the invention are directed to a soft shelter extension for use with a hard shelter where the hard shelter has a perimeter opening defined by a side wall and sealable by a deck rotationally coupled thereto, wherein the deck is prevented from over rotating by a pair of opposing cables linking the side wall to the deck. Such embodiments include a bow assembly having a plurality of bows wherein first ends are linkable to each other and second ends are linkable to each other, either directly or indirectly. These embodiments further include a pair of cable slide interfaces linked to respective first and second ends of the plurality of bows to receive the respective pair of cables. A flexible panel covers the bow assembly, and mates to the side wall and to the deck to form an enclosed space when the deck is rotated to a position wherein the cables are in tension.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Cascade Designs, Inc.Inventors: James Giblin, Thomas Gruber, James Marson, Doug Jacot, Terry Breaux
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Patent number: 7311061Abstract: A telescopic flagpole for reducing the manual force required to extend and secure multiple segments. The flagpole includes a plurality of segments including a bottom segment, at least one intermediate segment, and a top segment; a plurality of sleeve assemblies each positioned between an associated pairing of a relatively lower segment and a relatively higher segment; and a plurality of biasing members each urging an associate one of the segments toward an extended position.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Michael J. Wiese
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Patent number: 7311062Abstract: The invention relates to a milking plant wherein the vibrations and sound emissions thereof are significantly reduced. In said inventive milking plant, a vacuum control valve (500) is directly connected to a vacuum compensation tank (200). The vacuum control valve (500) leads into the vacuum compensation tank (200) via a diffusor (501). The vacuum control valve (500) is enclosed in a cylindrical container (503). Preferably, the vacuum pump (110) and the vacuum compensation tank (200) are connected to each other via a main line (150) which is embodied in the form of two bent, flexible hoses. Preferably, the main line (150) leads tangentially into the vacuum compensation tank (200). The invention also relates to a method for reducing sound emissions in one such milking plant. According to said method, the flow speed of the air in the air-guiding parts (150, 200, 300, 302, 403, 420) of the milking plant is reduced.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2002Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Moser Stalleinrichtungen and Bitec EngineeringInventor: Erwin Bilgery
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Patent number: 7311063Abstract: An automotive safety harness for pets is disclosed, the harness including first and second closed loops formed by a length of webbing joined at opposite ends and secured at an intersection. The opposite ends at the second closed loop are permanently secured with the first closed loop at a position opposite the first closed loop from the intersection, a first fastener secured to an exterior surface at the position. A securing webbing is configured with first and second interface loops to slidably maintain the first and second closed loops at the position at one interface loop and receive the vehicle seat belt in the other, respectively. A second fastener is secured to the interior of the first interface loop surface, the first and second fasteners releasably engagable.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Ruff Rider, Inc.Inventor: Carl L. Goldberg
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Patent number: 7311064Abstract: Apparatus for improving the efficiency of a water heater includes a combination damper assembly and heat transfer baffle. The damper assembly includes a plurality of movable damper with each damper leaning outwardly from one another when the dampers are in a closed position. The baffle depends from the damper assembly and includes a truncated conical shape in this position within the flue of a water heater for directing combustion gases from the burner against a flue wall.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Werner K. Schimmeyer
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Patent number: 7311065Abstract: A powder fuel engine includes a battery, a cylinder and a generator. The battery is connected with an air compressor linked with an air tank, and the generator. The air tank is connected with a mixer and two powder tanks respectively via a pressurization tube. The powder tanks are to store different powders and respectively connected with a powder tube connected with the mixer. A powder jetting device connected to the mixer is connected with the cylinder that is provided with a powder combustion chamber, a piston, a spark plug and an outlet. The piston is connected with a connecting rod that is connected with a shaft. The generator is connected with an ignition device that is connected with the spark plug.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Yi-Hsiung Lin
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Patent number: 7311066Abstract: An exhaust manifold cooling jacket has internal passages for the circulation of liquid coolant and encloses an exhaust manifold such that a gap is created between the exhaust manifold and cooling jacket. Flowing coolant through the jacket regulates outer jacket temperature while enabling high intra-manifold exhaust gas temperatures for thorough intra-manifold combustion and improved emissions. A liquid-cooled exhaust system includes a turbocharger disposed between manifold and elbow, with liquid coolant flowing from manifold to elbow through the turbocharger. Another liquid-cooled exhaust manifold contains an internal exhaust combustion catalyst wrapped in an insulating blanket. In some marine applications, seawater or fresh water coolant is discharged into the exhaust gas stream at an attached exhaust elbow.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2001Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: WBIP, LLCInventor: John H. Westerbeke, Jr.
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Patent number: 7311067Abstract: A manually operated implement comprising a housing for accommodating a drive motor that drives a tool. A fan wheel is disposed in the housing and is driven by the drive motor. A fan wheel cover covers the fan wheel toward the outer side of the housing. Ribs are disposed on the outer surface of the fan wheel cover and span an intake opening of the fan wheel cover in the vicinity of the fan wheel. Beyond the intake opening, the ribs form channels, and upper faces of the ribs that face away from the outer surface of the fan wheel cover form an intake face that in a second area of the ribs is disposed transverse to the outer surface of the fan wheel cover.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KGInventor: Jens Riehmann
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Patent number: 7311068Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention provides a poppet valve offering an increased valve area, comprising an outer valve head having an outer valve port and an inner valve head having an inner valve port. The inner valve head is rotatable relative to the outer valve head to align the inner and outer valve ports, thereby increasing the effective valve area of the poppet valve. The path created by aligning the inner and outer valve ports can be designed to mix air flowing through the poppet valve. Another embodiment of the present invention provides a valve guide containing a poppet valve having a guide pin, wherein the guide pin rests within a groove in the valve guide. As the poppet valve moves through the valve guide, the groove controls movement of the guide pin and causes the poppet valve to rotate relative to the valve guide.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Inventor: Jason Stewart Jackson
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Patent number: 7311069Abstract: A variable valve timing control device includes a housing member, a rotor member assembled to the housing member so as to be rotatable relative thereto and including vane portions each forming an advanced angle chamber and a retarded angle chamber within the housing member, a stopper formed on the convex portion for restricting a relative rotation between the housing member and the rotor member, a lock mechanism for restricting the relative rotation by a lock member, and a fluid pressure circuit for controlling an operation oil to be supplied to or discharged from the advanced angle chamber, the retarded angle chamber, and the lock mechanism. When the relative rotation is restricted, the lock member is in contact with an inner peripheral face of the receiving hole on the advanced angle side and the retarded angle side between an opening portion and a bottom portion of the receiving hole.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2004Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masaki Kobayashi, Katsuhiko Eguchi, Kazumi Ogawa, Yoshiyuki Kawai
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Patent number: 7311070Abstract: A variable valve system of an internal combustion engine varies an operation manner of an engine valve by controlling an angular position of a control shaft. The system comprises a stopper mechanism that determines an angular range in which the control shaft is permitted to rotate about its axis; an actuating mechanism that actuates the control shaft to rotate about its axis; and a position matching device that is practically assembly only when the actuating mechanism is being assembled. The position matching device, when assembled, restricts operation of the actuating mechanism in such a manner as to match a maximally operated position of the actuating mechanism with a maximally operated angular position of the control shaft.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventor: Yoshihiko Yamada
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Patent number: 7311071Abstract: A variable valve timing control apparatus of an internal combustion engine includes a drive rotary member, a driven rotary member, and a phase-change mechanism disposed between the drive and driven rotary members. The phase-change mechanism changes a relative phase between the drive and driven rotary members by an operating force, and returns the relative phase to an engine start-up phase suitable for the engine start-up at the engine starting. The phase-change mechanism has a phase-change characteristic that a phase-change rate reduces near the engine start-up phase when the relative phase is returned to the engine start-up phase.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2006Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventor: Atsushi Yamanaka
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Patent number: 7311072Abstract: A gas exchange valve of an internal combustion engine, has valve lifting movements with valve displacement curves and a control unit. To this end, a control unit is provided for operation of at least one valve, in particular a gas exchange valve of an internal combustion engine, in which the valvelifting movement of the at least one valve (6) is generated by superimposing two synchronously rotating cam profiles acting mechanically on a lift operating element (4). The two cam profiles (1, 2) have specially shaped areas by means of which, when superimposed to form one of the two cam profiles (1, 2), at least one additional valve displacement (ZV) can be generated on the whole in addition to a main valve displacement movement (HV) over a full revolution of each of these cam profiles (1, 2).Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2005Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignees: Mahle Ventiltrieb GmbH, Mechadyne PLCInventors: Hermann Hoffmann, Timothy Mark Lancefield, Martin Lechner, Ian Methley