Patents Issued in January 10, 2008
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Publication number: 20080005922Abstract: The present invention discloses a drying apparatus which enables uniform drying of grain. The drying apparatus has diffusion means which spread the grain accumulated on the floor into a layer, and the diffusion means has a screw conveyer which rotates around a rotatable shaft. A plow member is provided, which penetrates inside the layer of grain accumulated along the screw conveyer and disturbs the grain. The grain which is supplied in the drying chamber is spread at a uniform layer depth and uniform diffusion density by the screw conveyer and the plow member. The whole grain family can be dried equalized by heated air blowing from a heat wind blower.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 7, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: SAPPORO BREWERIES LIMITEDInventors: Masayoshi Kurashima, Isao Kishinami
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Publication number: 20080005923Abstract: An apparatus and method for drying instruments using superheated steam. The apparatus comprises a chamber for receiving the instruments, a distribution means for distributing superheated steam within the chamber and an exhaust means for purging vaporized moisture from the chamber. The chamber has at least one inlet port which is connected to the distribution means. The method comprises sterilizing the instruments using saturated steam generated by the steam generation means and drying the instruments using superheated steam generated by the steam generation means to vaporize moisture within the chamber and purging the vaporized moisture from the chamber using the exhaust means.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Arthur Zwingenberger, Gabriel Gheorghe Naghi, David Bryant Snaith, Andy Kwan-Leung Sun, Michel Stanier
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Publication number: 20080005924Abstract: The present invention discloses a method of operating and managing a laundry room machine for performing a washing operation and a drying operation according to a payment made by customers. The method includes the step of: a) setting information about payments and operating conditions and setting operating conditions according to a payment additionally inserted while a drying operation is performed; b) receiving information about payment insertion from the payment device and operating a predetermined operation according to the set operating conditions; and c) receiving information about additional payment insertion from the payment device while a drying operation is performed, and performing an additional drying operation for the information about additional payment insertion according to the operating condition set at the step a).Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Hea-Kyung YOO, Tae-Hoon Lim
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Publication number: 20080005925Abstract: A loading basket (6) for a washing machine (1) comprises a rear wall (8), a front wall (9) opposite the rear wall (8) and a side wall (7) defining an inner space (10) of the basket, as well as one or more dragging blades (12) arranged on the side wall (7) and projecting to the inside of the basket. The side wall (7) comprises a drilling with a plurality of small through holes (13), which are arranged at the vertex of respective domes (14) projecting to the outside of the basket (6), as well as a plurality of rounded projections (18) in the shape of a spherical dome without through holes and projecting to the inside (10) of the basket (6).Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Silvano Fumagalli
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Publication number: 20080005926Abstract: An apparatus and method for reducing lint accumulation from a clothes dryer exhaust in a dryer exhaust system, by increasing the airflow through the exhaust system over that generated by the dryer exhaust fan is described. A blower or fan is used to direct a flow of air into a flow coupler into which the dryer exhaust conduit is vented, such that the airflow reduces the pressure in the dryer exhaust conduit, thereby increasing the flow and reducing the accumulation of lint therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: David M. Goggin
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Publication number: 20080005927Abstract: A multi-function shoe includes a flexible sock body, a sole body, a first connector provided on an upper surface of the sole body, and a second connector provided on a bottom surface of the flexible sock body for connecting with the first connector or for detaching from the first connector. The flexible sock body can be selected to combine various sole body such as a thinner sole as a sock pad, a medium sole as an indoor shoe, or a thicker sole as an outdoor shoe for satisfying various needs used in various states.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Kun-Wang Hung
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Publication number: 20080005928Abstract: Structure, especially shoe-sole structure for the flexible damping dynamic effects on a body, which structure has layers (9, 10) situated transversally with respect to the direction of the dynamic effect, connected to each other with flexible connecting element (11),said layers (9, 10) being situated at a distance from each other in an unloaded condition. This structure is characterized in that one end of the connecting elements (11) is caught in the cavity (19) created in at least one of the layers (10), and the internal space of the cavity (19) is larger than or the same as that of the connecting element (11) extending into it, and the connecting element (11) is made of a material with a greater ability of flexible deformation than that of the material of the layers (9, 10). The invention also concerns a damping member.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 1, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Istvan Koszegi
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Publication number: 20080005929Abstract: A shoe having a shock absorbing bottom comprising one or more compartments filled with gas, for example air or nitrogen and which functions as a spring and one or more dampers which function to control rebound and vibrations. The damper can be viscoelastomeric material.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: AMERICAN SPORTING GOODS CORPORATIONInventors: ALAN HARDY, MARK McMillan
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Publication number: 20080005930Abstract: Method of improving the performance of sports shoes, especially soccer boots, by improving the coefficient of friction of key areas of the shoe (such as the toe box and upper) in both wet and dry conditions. Described are the application of butylene type coatings, including polyisobutylene polymers, to maintain desirable existing characteristics of a shoe, such as feel and feedback, but which improve grip. Variations such as patches, and areas of specific types of fabric or coating, are also discussed.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 17, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Simon Skirrow
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Publication number: 20080005931Abstract: This invention relates generally to footwear with a shoe sole, including at least one insertable midsole orthotic. The insertable midsole orthotic is removably inserted within the shoe upper, the sides of which hold it in position. The shoe sole includes a concavely rounded side or underneath portion, which may be formed in part by the insertable midsole orthotic. The insertable midsole orthotic may extend the length of the shoe sole or may form only a part of the shoe sole and can incorporate cushioning or structural compartments or components. The insertable midsole orthotic permits replacement of midsole material which has degraded or has worn out in order to maintain optimal characteristics of the shoe sole and allows customization for the individual wearer to provide tailored cushioning or support characteristics for the purpose of orthopedic, podiatric, corrective, prescriptive, therapeutic and/or prosthetic purposes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Frampton Ellis
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Publication number: 20080005932Abstract: Athletic positioning force unifying separator for toes comprises a case made from bending material, comprising reinforcements of predetermined stiffness, depending the aim of the product, or does not include reinforcements. Separator has clearances of suitable form, so that the toe is surrounded by the partition walls, and suitable outer form for a footwear. In the manufacture of the case can be used pattern casting (synthetics, rubber etc.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Vladlen Zitin
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Publication number: 20080005933Abstract: A customization system for an article of footwear is disclosed. The customization system comprises an insert system. The insert system includes an insert and a heel member. Both the insert and the heel member may be interchangeable, allowing the user to modify the article of footwear to provide a customized fit or performance optimization.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Perry Auger, Kendall Shapiro
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Publication number: 20080005934Abstract: The current invention is directed toward an item of footwear with upper and lower soles, which are removably attached to each other by a zipper, where the sole contains one or more compartments created by mating cavities formed into the mating faces of the upper and lower soles. Access to the compartment(s) is achieved through zippers and a flexible sole. A zipper is located along the fringe of the sole, separating the sole into an upper sole and a lower sole. A zipper encompassing the entire fringe of the sole allows for complete removal of the lower sole. A zipper encompassing part of the fringe combined with the flexible sole allows easy access to a compartment. The existence of a compartment is, optionally, hidden by making the zipper the same color as the sole, or by hiding the zipper under a protective sleeve.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Gilbert Francisco Fernandez
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Publication number: 20080005935Abstract: The present invention discloses a contactlessly-chargeable light-up shoe, which comprises: a shoe, at least one rechargeable battery, and at least one light-emitting element, wherein the shoe sole has a secondary coil, a magnetic core for the secondary coil, a regulator circuit, and a switch. The secondary coil terminals are sequentially connected with the regulator circuit, the rechargeable battery, the switch and then the light-emitting elements via wires, and the abovementioned elements are airtightly encapsulated with a plastic material. The present invention has the advantages of airtightly encapsulating all the electronic elements inside a plastic material and contactlessly recharging the battery. Thereby, the present invention realizes a waterproof, dustproof and rustproof contactlessly-chargeable light-up shoe, which can flicker or emit light continuously.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Shu-Shyong CHYN
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Publication number: 20080005936Abstract: A ventilated shore includes an outsole; an insole including projections; and a space defined by the insole and the outsole and including resilient pillars in the instep and interconnected the insole and the outsole, a battery compartment, second compartments, motor-driven vibrating devices located in the second compartments, an exposed first switch, a heating element, an exposed second switch, and a circuit board with the first and second switches provided on its edge. Turning on the first switch will activate the vibrating devices to vibrate the projections to perform a first operation to massage the sole. Turning on the second switch will activate the heating element to perform a second operation to warm the foot.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Hsao Hsing Chiu
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Publication number: 20080005937Abstract: In a hydraulic excavator wherein a control valve unit having a plurality of control valves in a united form and an operation pattern switching valve for switching from one to another among combined patterns of operating valves and control valves are disposed side by side in front and rear positions respectively within a valve accommodating space formed between an upper frame base plate and a floor plate in an upper rotating body, the operation pattern switching valve is inclined forwardly downward in a state in which its upper surface side including an operating lever thereof faces an operation port being formed to the floor plate.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: KOBELCO CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD.Inventors: Takanobu NAKAYOSHI, Hirokazu Imashige, Tomohiko Asakage, Kazuyuki Takeda
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Publication number: 20080005938Abstract: For determining the load of an excavator bucket, or optionally of another holding region, a measurement step and an evaluation step are carried out. In the measurement step, the position of a load surface is determined by means of a noncontact distance-measuring device and, in the evaluation step, a load volume is determined from the position of the load surface and the position and shape of the excavator bucket or of the holding region. For determining the position of the load surface, at least one two-dimensional matrix with distance values is created by means of a distance-measuring camera. For determining the position of the excavator bucket, the distances to at least three points of the excavator bucket, in particular to points on the upper bucket edge, optionally to marked points are determined using the distance-measuring apparatus for determining the surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: LEICA GEOSYSTEMS AGInventors: Beat AEBISCHER, Bernhard BRAUNECKER, Kevin GREENWOOD, Peter STEGMAIER
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Publication number: 20080005939Abstract: A universal digging tooth attachment apparatus adapted to be secured to a forward edge of a bucket lip of an earth moving implement. The universal digging tooth attachment has a first element with an elongate section defining a first generally planar surface for abutting and engaging along the length thereof with one face of the bucket lip of the earth moving implement and a second element. The second element has an elongate section defining a second generally planar surface for abutting and engaging along the length thereof with the bucket lip of the earth moving implement directly opposite from the elongate section of the first element. One of the first and second elements has an earth engaging tooth projecting therefrom. A slip joint operably connects the first and second elements to each other to allow for adjustment of a distance between the first and second planar surfaces to accommodate attachment of the digging tooth to implements having bucket lips of differing thicknesses.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Brian L. Launder, Charles Clendenning
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Publication number: 20080005940Abstract: A wear member for excavating equipment and which is particularly suited for a dredge cutterhead that includes a curved abutting surface that abuts a complementary curved bearing surface on the base. The curved bearing surfaces are able to maintain substantially full contact with each other under transverse loading. The base and adapter further having a plurality of complementary stops for resisting relative movement between them.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: ESCO CorporationInventor: Charles G. Ollinger
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Publication number: 20080005941Abstract: A display device for an inside surface of a cooler door has a frame with a front panel and opposed first and second side panels. A top tube is mounted between the first and second side panels behind the front panel of the frame. A display scroll entrained about the top tube forms a top loop and a bottom loop. A bottom tube with opposed end flanges rides in the bottom loop of the display scroll with the end flanges retaining the bottom tube in the bottom loop. As the scroll is rotated about the tubes via a motor, a display graphic on the scroll moves to attract the attention of potential consumers.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Bernard Primiano, James Robertson
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Publication number: 20080005942Abstract: An improved sign is provided with a pair of rollers secured to opposite ends of a display surface. A first roller is provided within a first tube formed in one side of the display surface, and a second roller is provided in a tube formed on an opposite side of the display surface. A pair of handles are journaled to the rollers and the display surface is constructed in a manner which biases the display surface toward a curled orientation around the tubes. When the handles are pulled apart from one another, the sign unfurls and the message is displayed. When the handles are released, the bias of the display surface toward the curled orientation causes the rollers to move toward one another as the sign curls back around the rollers into a compact configuration for transportation or storage.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 7, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Donald Harney
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Publication number: 20080005943Abstract: A solar powered illuminated sign having at least one interchangable character which comprises a transparent panel mounted centrally across a front wall of a housing. A mechanism is for mounting a character display medium in a removable manner over the transparent panel. A control circuit, a rechargeable battery and a light source are within said housing. The rechargeable battery and the light source are electrically connected to the control circuit. A solar generating unit is mounted onto the front wall of the housing, wherein the solar generating unit is electrically connected to the control circuit. In a first instance during daylight hours, the sun will supply solar energy to the solar generating unit, causing the control circuit to allow charging of the rechargeable battery and deactivate the light source.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Albert Chao, Ethel Chao
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Publication number: 20080005944Abstract: A sign having selectable spectral characteristics of visible light produced by combining selected amounts of light energy of different wavelengths from different sources in a diffusion chamber. The signs exhibit diffuse reflectivity to provide light having uniform intensity and illumination.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 17, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Jack Rains, Alan Geishecker
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Publication number: 20080005945Abstract: A retractable banner stand has a banner, a support base, a mast, a retracting mechanism, and a means for imparting a curvature in the horizontal plane on the banner. Typically a cross member will be provided for supporting the banner in an extended upright position and typically the base will be a housing that included the retracting mechanism. The means for imparting a curvature may comprise a pair of elongate forms each with a banner engaging area that has a curved surface. The elongate forms can be resiliently flexible to repeatably provide and release the curved surface upon set-up and take-down. Various means for holding the resiliently flexible form in place include hinged spacers, slidable spacers, hinged form, or slidable form connected to the base. Alternatively, the curved surface may be rigid and insertable into engagement with the banner.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 1, 2004Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Mark Fritsche, Dan Berg, Jason Johnson, John Elliott
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Publication number: 20080005946Abstract: The display formed of multiple fragmented images is formed by folding at least one translucent sheet and placing a first image fragment on the sheet to one side of the fold line. A second image fragment is placed on the sheet to the opposite side of the fold line from the first image fragment. The sheet is then folded with the two sides or leaves of the sheet overlying one another to place the two image fragments in registry with one another, allowing the image to be viewed in its entirety. The second image fragment may be applied in mirror image to the first image fragment on the same surface of the sheet, or may alternatively be applied to the opposite surface of the sheet in proper orientation. Multiple sheets may be used with more than two images applied to form more complex fragmented patterns, and the bottom leaf may be opaque.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2004Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Beverly Gary
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Publication number: 20080005947Abstract: A golf mat for displaying advertising includes a first layer having a top surface and a bottom surface; a second layer having a top surface and a bottom surface, wherein the first layer is attached to the second layer; a recess extending into the top surface of the first layer; and an advertising element having advertising displayed thereon, wherein the advertising element is situated within the recess. The advertising element may be an electronic device having a display for electronically displaying the advertising thereon. Methods of manufacturing the present invention and displaying advertising utilizing the present invention are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 23, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: Infinite Links, LLCInventors: Bruce Barna, Jared Wische
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Publication number: 20080005948Abstract: Disclosed is a unitary sheet-like merchandise labeling article that has a labeling tag flatly conjoined along a unifying flat bond zone with a flexible elastic layer that extends away from the tag and includes an elastic fastening loop. The loop sides that define the loop are wider than the thickness of the elastic layer. Further, the flexible elastic layer that extends away from the tag has a thickness greater than the thickness of the tag and has a dispersion zone adjacent the unifying flat bond zone. The dispersion zone allows dissipation of elastic loop in-line stretching forces sufficiently to reduce transmission of such forces into the bond zone.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: Bedford Industries, Inc.Inventors: Robert Ludlow, John Linquist, Colin O'Donnell, Ryan Korpela
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Publication number: 20080005949Abstract: A printable sheet including a sheet matrix and a plurality of removable tabs cut within the sheet matrix and aligned in a column adjacent an edge of the printable sheet. Each of the removable tabs is separated from the sheet matrix by a first line of separation and is separated from an adjacent removable tab by a second line of separation. The removable tabs can be printed with information, such as a contact phone number, that a person reading the sheet, such as including an advertisment, may want to remove for later reference. A tearable and removable strip can be disposed between the column of removable tabs and the edge of the printable sheet to support the tabs during printing.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Timothy Flynn
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Publication number: 20080005950Abstract: A decorative molding apparatus (10) for alternative art framing, picture framing and architectural framing is disclosed in the preferred form, including an extruded body (12) used in conjunction with an extruded adjustable bed area insert (18) and an adjustment means (20), (22) and (24) used to raise and lower bed area insert (18) for the purpose of securing artistic expressions of various art forms and mediums within the confines of extruded main body (12). Adjustment means (22) is a threaded grub screw used in conjunction with securing nut (20) that is captured within receiving and securing slot (24) of extruded main body (12). Receiving and securing slot (24) is also used in conjunction with securing nut (20) to secure multiple art objects along the horizontal length of extruded main body (12). Receiving and securing slot (24) may also be used to secure one section of decorative molding apparatus (10) to multiple sections of decorative molding apparatus (10) using traditional securing methods.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 25, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Ronald Sanders
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Publication number: 20080005951Abstract: A rifle has a shoulder support and at least one barrel connected to the shoulder support. A trigger is provided and a chamber is arranged behind the trigger when looking in a direction from a front end of the barrel toward the shoulder support. A movable breechblock has a closed position in which the chamber is closed off. At least one firing pin for firing a cartridge inserted into the chamber when the trigger is triggered is provided. A coupling mechanism connects the shoulder support or a swivel arm to the breechblock. The breechblock is movable by a pivot movement of the shoulder support or the swivel arm transmitted by the coupling mechanism. An axis of rotation of the shoulder support or the swivel arm is arranged within a space delimited by the breechblock and the trigger viewed across a length of the rifle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: STEINKAMP MASCHINENBAU GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Anatol Gorzen
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Publication number: 20080005952Abstract: An accessory rail assembly mountable on a weapon. The rail assembly is formed of first and second mount units, formed to fit around the weapon. The internal profile of the mount units matches the external profile of the weapon in at least one desired location. Also, the mount units have engagement devices arranged to mutually secure the units to one another, thereby exerting force on the weapon stock, such force being limited in direction to a direction parallel to the vertical dimension of the weapon.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 12, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Kendal Sutherby
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Publication number: 20080005953Abstract: Line guides for fishing rods made from one or more materials including an amorphous metallic alloy, sometimes referred to as a metallic glass. In preferred embodiments, the line guide has a one-piece structure and more preferably is formed substantially entirely from metallic glass. The present invention also relates to fishing rods incorporating such line guides.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Mark C. Anderson
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Publication number: 20080005954Abstract: An artificial fly fishing lure is provided having a hollow tube, a lip extending downward from the tube and integrally formed with the tube to impart life-like movement to the fly when pulled through the water, an anchoring point for connecting a leader line to the fly near a back end thereof, and preferably a notch for receiving and frictionally holding in place a dumbbell or hourglass weight for varying the depth and flow dynamics of the fly.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 7, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: David Barber, Michael Treger
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Publication number: 20080005955Abstract: There is provided a device for the extraction of a fish hook fixed to a fishing line from a mouth of a fish. The device comprises an extended retaining arm and a tubular hook holder, with a jointed connection to a free end of the retaining arm, which may be pivoted from a forward facing position for engaging the fish hook into a rearward facing release position by means of a pivot device, wherein a free inner cross section and a length of said the holder are such that a fish hook shaft fits in, wherein the hook holder is embodied over its entire length with a slot for introduction of the fishing line, wherein a handle is arranged at a rear end of the retaining arm in such a manner that the handle and the retaining arm are arranged in a pistol-like manner, and wherein in an area of an end of the retaining arm opposite to the free end a clamping device for the fishing line is provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 28, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Antonio Larcher
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Publication number: 20080005956Abstract: Compositions for adjusting coal bulk density and methods of using the compositions are provided. In an embodiment, the present invention provides methods of utilizing the compositions to adjust coal bulk density. The compositions can comprise one or more components selected from a group consisting of vegetable oils, animal fats, triglycerides, fatty acids, fatty acid methyl esters, fatty acid ethyl esters, and glycerin. These compositions can be derived from a biodiesel manufacturing process or transesterification reactions involving triglycerides.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 18, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Bo Tran
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Publication number: 20080005957Abstract: This handling relates to the effective storage and blending of biodiesel with petroleum fuel. More specifically, the processing relates to blending biodiesel with petroleum based diesel fuel stocks in cold weather without shock crystallization.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Amy Sell, Todd Coffman, Bernard M. Sharkey, Russell P. Lewis, Andy Lester, Douglas W. Fowler
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Publication number: 20080005958Abstract: A hydrocarbonaceous fuel additive, fuel composition, and method all lower both carbon particulate emissions and improve slag properties in combustion systems including, for instance, utility furnaces and boiler systems. The mixed metal catalyst may include a transition metal-containing compound, an alkali metal compound, and a magnesium-containing compound.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 14, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Stephen Factor, Joseph Roos, Allen Aradi
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Publication number: 20080005959Abstract: A wild seaweed, like sea lettuce, is picked and germ cells are released from the seaweed. The germ cells then obtain adherence and are sprouted into youngs of the seaweed so that the seaweed can be cultivated artificially and productively and can be supplied as a material for biomass energy.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: ATOMIC ENERGY COUNCIL-INSTITUTE OF NUCLEAR ENERGY RESEARCHInventors: Chia-Chieh Chen, Yean-Chang Chen, Kuan-Yin Chen, Hsueh-Hsuan Liu, Bin Lin, Meng-Chou Lee, Ming-Chao Ku, Wen-Song Hwang, Ying-Kai Fu, Wuu-Jyh Lin, Lie-Hang Shen
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Publication number: 20080005960Abstract: A system for dispersing water to the root zone of one or more trees beneath the soil's surface, comprising a perforated hollow cylindrical tube, ending in a spike, with an internal filter, which is driven into the ground to deliver water to the root zone a tree or trees.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 21, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Douglas A. King
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Publication number: 20080005961Abstract: A process and apparatus for planting aquatic plants underwater on the bottom of estuaries in damaged areas and for encouraging plant growth in seabeds and banks. Aquatic plant shoots are transplanted by positioning shoots in a sediment container which is in turn placed in the targeted area. When the sediment container is placed, the sea grass shoots are held in position for an extended period of time to allow the sea grass shoots to take root. The sediment containers may be preformed or they may be formed just prior to their placement. A watercraft may be used to position the sediment containers with and without sea grass shoots over an area of the propeller scar. With the process and apparatus of this invention, sea grass plants can be cultivated. Further in accordance with another embodiment of this invention a container or other obstruction without plant is placed to impede water flow over the area being cultivated. When water flow is impeded natural plant growth is encouraged.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: James Anderson
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Publication number: 20080005962Abstract: To allow distribution of culturing liquid throughout culture medium in a short operation time, without having to additionally provide a supply passage communicated with a tank or a supply pump. A plant culturing apparatus includes a culturing vessel 1 for a plant A, a tank 3 for culturing liquid 2, a communication passage 4 communicating between the vessel 1 and the tank 3, and a pump P incorporated in the communication passage 4, the pump being capable of being switched over between a condition for feeding the reserved liquid 5 to the culturing vessel and a further condition for introducing into the tank, excess liquid 6 and aeration air 7. The communication passage is communicated with the culturing vessel from the bottom side thereof. To the communication passage, there is branch-connected a supply passage 12 capable of feeding the reserved liquid to the culturing vessel from a planting opening side.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Masaki Hashimoto, Katsuro Miyagawa, Saori Nakamura
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Publication number: 20080005963Abstract: An apparatus and method for producing hydrogen. The apparatus includes a fuel processor, a purification unit and a system controller. The controller determines a calculated flow of reformate from the fuel processor and operates the purification unit based on the calculated flow. The calculated flow is derived from a process model of the fuel processor and known feed(s) to the fuel processor. The calculated flow of reformate is used to control the flow of reformate to adsorbent beds within the purification unit and can be used to control other materials flows within the apparatus. Means for reducing fluctuations in the pressure and/or flow rate of reformate flowing from the fuel processor to the purification unit are also disclosed. The purity of the hydrogen produced can be maintained by adjusting the operation of the purification unit in response to changes in reformate composition, pressure and/or flow rate.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2004Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: Texaco Inc.Inventors: W. Wheat, Hongqiao Sun, Bhaskar Balasubramanian, Vesna Mirkovic
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Publication number: 20080005964Abstract: An apparatus for producing hydrogen having compressor motor speed control. The apparatus includes a hydrogen generator for producing a product comprising hydrogen and a compression unit for compressing the product. The hydrogen generator can include a fuel processor having an oxidizer and a reformer. The compression unit has an induction motor and means for regulating the speed of the motor. The means for regulating the speed of the motor can include a variable frequency drive or soft start device having a plurality of switches and an adjustable ramp timer. A downstream unit including one or more of a purification unit, a second compression unit, and a storage unit is disposed downstream of the compression unit. A method for producing hydrogen is provided that includes generating a product comprising hydrogen in a hydrogen generator, compressing the product in a compression unit having an induction motor and regulating the speed of the motor in response to transient operations of the hydrogen generator.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 17, 2004Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: Texaco Inc.Inventor: Masoud Hajiaghajani
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Publication number: 20080005965Abstract: The present invention provides a system for providing high purity hydrogen having a hydrogen conversion device having a first outlet and a means for converting a hydrogen precursor into gaseous hydrogen at a predetermined first pressure. A first pressure regulator is fluidly coupled to the hydrogen conversion device outlet where the first regulator has a predetermined operating parameter set at a second pressure. A second pressure regulator is provided having a predetermined operating parameter set at a third pressure where the third pressure is lower than the second pressure. A second hydrogen source containing a first quantity of pressurized hydrogen gas at a fourth pressure is fluidly coupled to the second regulator. Finally, a junction fluidly couples the first and second regulators.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 4, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: A. Speranza
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Publication number: 20080005966Abstract: A method and device for cooling hot crude gas and slag from entrained flow gasification of liquid and solid combustibles at crude gas temperatures ranging from 1,200 to 1,800° C. and at pressures of up to 80 bar in a cooling chamber disposed downstream of the gasification reactor by injecting water. The cooling water is distributed, with a first portion being finely dispersed into to cooling chamber and a second portion being fed at the bottom into an annular gap provided between the pressure-carrying tank wall and an incorporated metal apron for protecting said pressure-carrying tank wall. The second portion of the cooling water flows upward in the annular gap and trickles down the inner side of the metal apron in the form of a water film.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Norbert Fischer, Dietmar Degenkolb, Friedemann Mehlhose, Manfred Schingnitz
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Publication number: 20080005967Abstract: A pet barrier that is placed in a motor vehicle to divide a portion of the interior of the vehicle from the remainder of the interior of the vehicle. The barrier can be removed when not used but can be quickly set up when needed. The barrier includes a telescoping support pole that has screens attached thereto. When the support pole is placed in the vehicle, such as by frictionally engaging the ends of the pole against the interior sides of the vehicle, the screens will divide the compartment so a pet can be confined behind the screens.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Douglas M. Johnson, Kristine Johnson
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Publication number: 20080005968Abstract: A shutter assembly (24) mounts to a structure (20) and provides storm and security protection to an opening (22). The assembly comprises an upper track (28) and a lower track (30) each extending between first and second proximal and distal ends (34, 38), respectively. A pair of decorative shutters (26) are spaced from one another and disposed adjacent to the tracks (28, 30). A plurality of panel assemblies (46) are in sliding engagement with the upper and lower tracks (28, 30) for covering the opening (22) and each comprises upper and lower rails (52, 54) and a pair of stiles (56) extending therebetween and a panel (58). The panel (58) defines a retention portion (66) disposed along side edges (64) extending outwardly from a plane (68) of the panel (58). Each of the stiles (56) define a stile channel (72) having a configuration corresponding to the retention portion (66) to create an interference fit between the stile channel (72) and the panel (58) for allowing movement when the panel (58) flexes.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: TAPCO INTERNATIONALInventors: Michael C. Clark, Nathan Greenway, Brad Kutler, J. Richard Logan, Clyde G. Allen
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Publication number: 20080005969Abstract: A door operator includes a housing, a first pressure compartment; a second pressure compartment, a drive unit disposed in the housing and coupleable to a door via an output shaft, the driving unit being associated with the first pressure compartment, a hydraulic pump in hydraulic connection with the first and second pressure compartments, a motor in driving relationship with the hydraulic pump, and a spring force accumulator disposed in the housing. The spring force accumulator is associated with the second pressure compartment and coupled to the drive unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2005Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: Dorma GmbH + Co.KGInventor: Volker Bienek
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Publication number: 20080005970Abstract: A casement operator for opening and closing a window includes a housing, a cover and a crank assembly. The cover is moveable between a closed position and an open position. The crank assembly is pivotable and includes a crank handle and a gear mounted to the crank handle. The crank handle is pivotable between a retracted position and an extended position. The crank handle is enclosed within a storage cavity in a storage position. The crank handle includes a bore proximate a base end and the gear has a first detent and a second detent. A biasing member is mounted within the bore and a securing plug is mounted at least partially within the bore. The biasing member biases the securing plug toward the gear such that the securing plug is located in the first detent in the retracted position and in the second detent in the extended position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Applicant: ULTRA HARDWARE PRODUCTS LLCInventors: Raymond Hufnagle, Robert Munin, She Zhang
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Publication number: 20080005971Abstract: A window regulator is provided for operating a window pane of an automotive vehicle including a guide rail extending between opposite upper and lower ends. A lifter plate is slidably coupled to the guide rail. The lifter plate includes an integrated drum housing and is adapted for supporting the window pane. A motor assembly is fixedly secured to the lifter plate and includes a drive housing and a reversible motor. A drive shaft is rotatably coupled to the drive housing for rotation by the reversible motor. A cable drum is disposed in the integrated drum housing of the lifter plate for being rotatably driven by the drive shaft. A pair of cables having first ends connected to the cable drum are at least partially wound around the cable drum in opposite directions while second ends are connected to the upper and lower ends of the guide rail. The lifter plate, cable drum and motor assembly move together upwardly and downwardly along the guide rail in response to rotation of the shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 20, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Robert Boyer DICKIE, David Lawrence Newkirk, Troy Donavan Allan, Douglas Chester Carson, Robert Brady Mooney