Patents Issued in February 21, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080041178
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system to control a contact force and a positional relationship between members in operable communication. The system comprising, a first member, a second member in operable communication with the first member, and a contact force and a positional relationship exists between the first member and the second member. The system further comprising first biasing members being configured to bias and position the first member, and the contact force and positional relationship are influenced by a response of the first biasing members to the contact forces between the members in operable communication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Suat Ozsoylu, Michael J. Augustine
  • Publication number: 20080041179
    Abstract: In an automatic transmission having an air breather chamber for separating oil and air, entering the air breather chamber as oil bubbles, a shielding rib is located below an air-breather opening serving as an inlet-and-return port, for preventing oil, stored in a transmission casing assembly and splashed by rotary motion of a transmission rotating component part, from directly reaching the air-breather opening. An upside of the shielding rib is configured to be inclined downwardly with respect to a horizontal line in such a manner as to be oriented toward the transmission rotating component part, for receiving oil dripping through the air-breather opening with the upside of the shielding rib and for rapidly delivering the received oil toward the transmission rotating component part, using the inclined upside of the shielding rib.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Kenjiro YASUI, Naoto Satou
  • Publication number: 20080041180
    Abstract: A shift lever system of a vehicle is provided comprising (a) a shift lever movable between a plurality of predetermined positions corresponding to different shift positions, (b) an engaging lever comprising a pin and connected to the shift lever so as to integrally move with the shift lever, and (c) a sensor module connected to the shift lever to detect predetermined positions of the shift lever, wherein the pin is in cooperation with sensor module such that the sensor module can detect the movement of the shift lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Eunsoo Cho
  • Publication number: 20080041181
    Abstract: An actuating device for a transmission of a vehicle, particularly a commercial vehicle, a bus, or the like, moves a trip cam of the transmission forward or backward in the longitudinal direction, and in the transverse direction in one direction or the other transversely to the longitudinal direction. It has a spindle, which includes two axially adjacent thread sections with opposing thread directions, with a spindle nut on each thread section of the spindle, with a drive motor for each spindle nut to drive it in a rotary manner, and with a coupling member that engages with the trip cam and moves it in the longitudinal and transverse directions, and which is actuatable using the spindle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Arnold Mueller
  • Publication number: 20080041182
    Abstract: A device is provided for transmitting a biaxial pivoting movement of a gearshift lever (2) into a planar movement of a gearshift lever position transmitter with a guide element (20, 27, 31, 32) for limiting the movement of the gearshift lever position transmitter to a movement in a noncurved plane. The device includes a transmission element (19, 7a) for transmitting a pivoting movement of the gearshift lever (2) about a first pivot axis (11) into a pivoting movement of the gearshift lever position transmitter in a noncurved plane, and with a hinge joint for converting a pivoting movement of the gearshift lever (2) about a second pivot axis (12) into a linear movement of the gearshift lever position transmitter in the noncurved plane. The positions (15a) of the gearshift lever (2) can be detected in the noncurved plane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Andreas GIEFER, Jorg Meyer
  • Publication number: 20080041183
    Abstract: A robot has a robot arm, a support structure, and a movable platform. The platform includes a cantilevered member coupled to a guide of the support structure such that motion of the platform is directed along a first direction. The robot further includes first and second timing belts having portions that extend along the first direction and that are disposed on opposite sides of the cantilevered member, and first and second shafts movable with the movable platform. The shafts are coupled to the respective timing belts, to the robot arm such that rotation of the first shaft imparts angular motion to the robot arm and rotation of the second shaft imparts radial motion. The robot also includes a third timing belt to which the platform is coupled and by which it is moved. Motors are provided that impart movement to the timing belts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Genmark Automation, Inc.
    Inventor: Alexander Todorov
  • Publication number: 20080041184
    Abstract: The embodiments relate to a method for fixing a flexible drive shaft in a front frame of a thrust reverser, this front frame being realized with the aid of two partially open semicircular elements. The method includes a step during which a first end of this shaft is linked to a drive system fixed in an element of the front frame, wherein it includes the steps serving to: position at least one fixing sleeve around the shaft; joining at least on fixing support to the thrust reverser; connecting the second end of the shaft to a drive system fixed in the other element of the front frame; force-inserting each fixing sleeve into a seat provided by the associated fixing support in order to hold the shaft in a predetermined position. The embodiments also relate to a thrust reverser used in aeronautics having a fixing sleeve placed around the drive shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: AIRCELLE
    Inventors: Gautier Chapuis, Joachim Mirabaud
  • Publication number: 20080041185
    Abstract: A parking brake assembly which includes a brake lever, a rotary clutch and a lock-release mechanism which cooperate to selectively lock and release a parking brake. The clutch allows actuation of the brake lever in one direction and prevents movement of the brake lever in an opposite direction. The lock-release mechanism allows selective movement of the rotary clutch and the brake lever together in the opposite direction. The rotary clutch may be disposed generally coaxially with a pivot axis of the brake lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Dura Global Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald J. Hanna, Adam W. Remesz
  • Publication number: 20080041186
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments provide a rotating machine assembly comprising a rotor machine assembly including a shaft, a plurality of laminations shrink fit around the circumference of the shaft, and weights affixed therebetween the laminations for balancing the rotating machine assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Mark Hodowanec, Rajendra Mistry
  • Publication number: 20080041187
    Abstract: A transfer case assembly (10) for selectively moving a seal assembly in a plurality of adjustment directions. The assembly comprises a motor (12) and a drive shaft (14) operatively connected to the motor (12) for rotation in response to actuation of the motor. A plurality of driving gears (16, 18, 20) are mounted to the drive shaft for rotation therewith. A plurality of drives (24, 28, 32) shafts corresponding with the respective plurality of driving gears are provided for independently controlling movement of the seat assembly in the fore/aft, up and down direction. A driven gear is rotatably mounted to each of the driven shafts and meshed with a respective one of the driving gears for rotation therewith. A coupler (22, 26, 30) is disposed adjacent to each of the driven gears for selectively coupling the driven gears to the respective driven shafts (24, 28, 32).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Scott Lavoie, Brent Frazier
  • Publication number: 20080041188
    Abstract: A suds container for a washing machine includes plastic and is disposed so as to vibrate inside the machine housing, and includes first and second joint pieces. The first joint piece has a first bore therethrough and the second joint piece has a second bore therethrough aligned with the first bore. The first and second joint pieces are configured to fasten a vibration absorber with a fastening eye of the vibration absorber disposed between the joint pieces. A fastening element is at least partially received in the first and second bores and configured to fasten the vibration absorber. An S-shaped molded part is disposed on the joint pieces and includes third and fourth aligned bores and a first and a second arched area. The first arched area has a U-shape and is disposed between the joint pieces. The second arched area extends so as to overlap a free end of the first joint piece at an outer portion thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: MIELE & CIE. KG
    Inventors: Norbert Eckert, Benedikt Fechtel
  • Publication number: 20080041189
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for improving energy supply when heating and melting a scrap bulk wherein a preheated oxidizing gas with addition of fossil fuels melts a channel into the scrap bulk and further energy supply occurs through this channel. A significant improvement of the process is achieved by supplying hot blast to the scrap bulk from the top.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Karl Brotzmann
  • Publication number: 20080041190
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device (1) for sharpening the blade of a manual cuting tool, in particular a knife. The inventive device comprises a support (2) provided with a cutout (4). Identical sharpening levers are arranged on each side of the cutout in front and in staggering manner with respect to each other and provided with a curved arm (13) having a rectilinear end edge (14) and another arm (16) forming means for returning in a position by gravity. Each lever (11) is pivotally mounted in the jointing area (15) of the arms (13, 16) around an geometrical axis which is generally perpendicular to a longitudinal direction (A-A?) of the cutout and a slot (5). Said device is particularly adapter to the agriculture and food industry.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2005
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Nathalie Dassaud, Rene Dassaud
  • Publication number: 20080041191
    Abstract: A tubular wrench adapted for firmly engaging a connection fitting, including a cylindrical, hollow outer sleeve having an outer sleeve head located on at least one end of the outer sleeve, a cylindrical, hollow inner sleeve having an inner sleeve head located on at least one end of the inner sleeve, wherein the inner sleeve is passed through the outer sleeve, allowing the inner sleeve to connect to the lower end of a desired connection fitting while the outer sleeve connects to the upper end of a desired connection fitting. Methods of assembling and disassembling a connection fitting with the tubular wrench.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Erin McDermott
  • Publication number: 20080041192
    Abstract: An adaptor (10) for a fastening tool (12) having an attachment portion (18) for coupling the adaptor (10) to the fastening tool and a support (14, 16) for coupling a mounting bracket (26) to the adaptor (10), arranged so as to hold the mounting bracket (26) relative to a substrate and allow a fastener from the tool to be driven through the mounting bracket to secure the mounting bracket to the substrate (52). A holder for holding an item to facilitate attachment of said item to a substrate by a fastener, wherein the holder magnetically retains the item in a position to receive the fastener from a fastener tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: CETRAM PTY LIMITED
    Inventors: Tim Gamble, Andrew Crawford, Fred Blochlinger
  • Publication number: 20080041193
    Abstract: A wrench socket assembly has outer and inner sleeves. Each sleeve has a socket drive cavity at each end. The four socket cavities are of different sizes for driving different sizes of fasteners. The outer sleeve has a central section between its socket cavities that slidably receives the inner sleeve. The inner sleeve and the outer sleeve have a torque transmitting feature to allow the inner sleeve to transmit torque through the central section to the outer sleeve. The inner sleeve has a drive section centrally located between its socket cavities. A conventional extension bar from a socket wrench will engage the central drive section located within the inner sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: David Baker, Inc.
    Inventor: David R. Baker
  • Publication number: 20080041194
    Abstract: A multi-bit screwdriver comprises a housing with a bit chuck at the front end and bit assemblies retained within the housing. Each bit assembly has a tool bit at a front end and a contact surface at a back end. An actuator extends from each bit assembly for operative engagement by a user, for movement of the actuator and bit assembly between a forwardly extended in-use configuration whereat the bit assembly is positioned such that the tool bit extends outwardly from the housing, and the contact surface of the bit assembly is disposed in longitudinal force transmitting engagement against an abutment surface to preclude rearward movement of the bit assembly due to substantially longitudinally directed forces transmitted from the tool bit, and a retracted configuration whereat the contact surface of the bit assembly is removed in a lateral direction from the longitudinal force transmitting engagement with the abutment surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2004
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Fern Beauchamp
  • Publication number: 20080041195
    Abstract: A tool is provided for slidably receiving, magnetically holding, and mechanically engaging fasteners, tool bits, and nuts. The tool comprises one or more magnetic annuluses in stacked relation to each other. The tool defines an inner periphery that matches the shape of the fastener, bit, or nut. The tool further comprises an outer periphery adapted to be grasped by a hand or a tool so that a mechanical torque applied to the outer periphery of the annulus, which results in a mechanical torque applied to the fastener, bit, or nut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Burton Kozak, Ira Kozak
  • Publication number: 20080041196
    Abstract: The present application is directed to devices and methods for inserting and mounting a fastener into a patient during a surgical procedure. In one embodiment, the device includes inner and outer sleeves. The inner sleeve may include a distal end that is configured to maintain the screw. In one embodiment, the outer sleeve may axially move along the inner sleeve to control an attachment force that is applied by the inner sleeve to maintain attachment of the fastener. In one method of use, the fastener is attached to the inner sleeve with the outer sleeve positioned to apply an attachment force. A handle of the device may be manipulated to position the fastener within the patient. Once positioned, the handle may be rotated to mount the fastener within a support member. As a head of the fastener is approaching the support member, the fastener disengages from the inner sleeve and remains within the patient.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: WARSAW ORTHOPEDIC INC.
    Inventors: Wilder Companioni, Carl M. Stamp, Alexander R. Vaccaro
  • Publication number: 20080041197
    Abstract: A mechanically levered spring coil key ring opener in which the thumb and fore finger digit operating the levered opener are generally protected from coming into contact with the spring coil key ring capable of breaking fingernails and cutting the operators digits on the hand or the hand itself. The levered key ring opener is spring loaded in the open position ready to insert the points of the prongs between the spring coil ring strips and with the minor thumb and fore finger pressure, the leverage is sufficient to create an opening between adjacent coil ring strips of the key ring to insert or remove a key of most thicknesses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: JANET LYNN LALOND
  • Publication number: 20080041198
    Abstract: A tool for applying and removing a band clamp includes two parts pivotably and crossly connected with each other, and each part has a connection section to which an applying member is rotatably connected thereto, and a handle section to which a grip is connected. Each applying member has a first working end and a second working end. The first working end has an inclined surface and a recess is defined in the inclined surface. The second working end is a plate. The two applying members are located such that the first working end of one applying member faces the second working end of the other applying member. By rotating the applying members, the two applying members can reach the band clamp at different angles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Pi-Liang Wu
  • Publication number: 20080041199
    Abstract: An insertion type hand tool comprises a tool body having a handle; one end of the handle having a receiving groove; a connecting portion pivotally installed in the receiving groove; a lower end of the connecting portion being formed with a teethed portion; a resisting unit installed in the receiving groove; one end of the resisting unit having a teeth surface engageable to the teethed portion of the resisting unit; a lower end of the receiving groove having an adjusting unit for adjusting the resisting unit to extend so as to engage with connecting portion or to reduce so as to release from the connecting portion. The adjusting unit has an adjusting rod and an elastic unit; the adjusting rod has a recess; when the adjusting unit is pressed, the recess receives the resisting unit so that the resisting unit is released from the connecting portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 5, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Chih-Ching Hsieh
  • Publication number: 20080041200
    Abstract: A new and improved bar feeder is herein disclosed. A bar feeder for use with an associated cutting lathe includes a guide rail, an air motor, at least four supports, each of the supports comprising a top, a base, a bushing, the bushing having a centerline opening, wherein the bushing can rotate freely in relation to the support, at least four drive gears, wherein each of the at least four supports is operatively connected to the drive gear, wherein the at least four supports are linked together, wherein the supports can be adjusted horizontally along the guide rail, a gear rack, the at least four drive gears operatively connected to the gear rack, and a pressurized cylinder for pushing an associated bar into the associated cutting lathe.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: William Kneebusch
  • Publication number: 20080041201
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a spinning apparatus for forming a workpiece when the workpiece is arranged in a substantially vertical orientation. The spinning apparatus includes at least one tool capable of altering the shape of the workpiece while spinning. The apparatus also includes a clamp configured to hold the workpiece as the tool works the workpiece. The spinning apparatus includes a spinning arrangement allowing for the vertical arrangement of the workpiece while the tool is working on the workpiece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Hess Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: David Mayfield, Joseph Krenz, Krishnathejan Akumalla
  • Publication number: 20080041202
    Abstract: A tool carrier device for adjustable arrangement of tools along a forming path comprises two carrier rails arranged so as to run parallel to one another in the longitudinal direction of the forming path and above the latter, at least one cross member which can be detachably connected to both carrier rails at a plurality of predetermined positions along the forming path in such a way that the cross member is arranged transversely to the longitudinal direction of the forming path, and at least one tool holder which can be detachably connected to the cross member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: KAMA GMBH
    Inventors: Bernd HERFURTH, Steffen PIEPER
  • Publication number: 20080041203
    Abstract: The invention relates to a cutting device (1) for cutting strips from a web of material, particularly a web of unvulcanised rubber, more particularly cord reinforced, unvulcanised rubber, comprising a first element having a first cutting edge (14), a second element having a second cutting edge (15), wherein the first and second cutting edge are movable past each other for in cooperation cutting the strips, and a drive (12, 121) for mutually laterally adaptably adjusting the cutting edges with respect to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2005
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Martinus Regterschot, Heinz Gutknecht, Antonie Slots
  • Publication number: 20080041204
    Abstract: Woodworking machines are disclosed having electrically conductive cutting tools adapted to cut workpieces. The machines include a contact detection system capacitively coupled to the cutting tool, and adapted to detect contact between a person and the cutting tool. The machines also include a reaction system configured to cause one or more predetermined actions to take place upon detection of contact between a person and the cutting tool by the contact detection system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 22, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Stephen Gass
  • Publication number: 20080041205
    Abstract: A cutting device holds an article to be cut stationary while a blade is traversed along a curved guide to peel or slice away material from the article. The article may be rotated using an indexing mechanism to realign the article with respect to the blade. The cutting device is especially configured to cut complex shapes, such as a seven-sided tourné. Portions of the cutting device may be separated for storage or travel, and a storage container may be provided to protect the device as well as to keep the separated pieces together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Donald Odom
  • Publication number: 20080041206
    Abstract: A cutter drum for a rotary cutting apparatus comprises a substantially circular-cylindrical portion provided with at least one cutting member having a longitudinal extension, the surface thereof being divided into a body portion having a first and a second side portion, and a main edge portion between said first and second side portions and substantially across the longitudinal extension of the cutting member. In accordance with the invention, an intermediate portion having a predetermined radius is provided on each side of said main edge portion, said intermediate portion connecting said main edge portion directly or indirectly to said body portion. The invention also relates to a rotary cutting apparatus comprising an anvil drum and such a cutter drum.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 18, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Luigi Mergola, Annabelle Meilland, Pascal Reyne
  • Publication number: 20080041207
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a touch-sensitive paper shredder control system. The touching feature is implemented through a series of electronic circuits, taking input from a conductive touch panel on the shredder feed throat, processing the signal, and through a motor driving circuit, stopping the mechanical parts of the shredder. The system has a touch detection circuit unit, which contains a bioelectricity controlled switching circuit to sense the conductive touch panel. The bioelectricity controlled switching circuit is configured to trigger a ground switching circuit in the touch detection circuit unit which outputs to a multifunction control circuit unit. The control circuit unit then takes care of the remaining protection issues. The touching device for paper shredders protects humans and other living beings including pets from injuries through automatic and real time monitoring. The complete control process is both safe and sensitive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Aurora Office Equipment Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Liangneng Chen
  • Publication number: 20080041208
    Abstract: A metal panel shear cutter is designed for metal panels which include support ribs. The metal panel cutter utilizes an anvil type cutting blade positioned at each side of a cutting base. Each cutting blade is pivotally connected to a cutting base in the vertical plane. The cutting base also includes supports for the ribs of the panels to allow for a smooth and clean cut of the panel. The cutting blades and a small portion of the cutting base are pivotally connected to the cutting base in the horizontal plane so they may be pivoted to the desired cutting angle while the metal panel remains fixed with respect to the base. This pivotal portion of the base includes additional supports for the ribs of the panel. These supports are adjustable to accommodate the various angles at which the panels are to be cut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 18, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Mark Osgood
  • Publication number: 20080041209
    Abstract: The present invention provides a power saw, which comprises a base, a support arm mounted on the base, a cutting unit supported by the support arm and pivotable about a first axis to a first angle position, and a table disposed on the base for supporting a workpiece to be cut. The cutting unit comprises a cutting head which contains a cutting element, a gear box, and a motor. The gear box is positioned between and connects the cutting head and the motor. The power saw further comprises an angle indication device which comprises a first angle indication light, a control device connected to the first angle indication light, and a power source supplying power to the first angle indication light. The first angle indication light, the control device and the power source are electrically connected when the cutting unit is at the first angle position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Ming Li
  • Publication number: 20080041210
    Abstract: A circular saw machine consists of a bed, a platform on top of the bed, a board secured in the bed, a swinging support, and a blade; the board has concentric curved slot and curved bar-shaped protrusion; the swinging support has a shaft portion, a curved groove, and a toothed bottom portion, and is joined to the board with the shaft portion being passed through the curved slot, and the curved bar-shaped protrusion fitted in the curved groove; a block with a groove is secured on the swinging support; a sliding block is fitted on the groove; a sleeve is secured on the sliding block, and a shaft is passed through the sleeve and joined to the blade; the blade sticks out through a slot of the platform; a hand-operated worm engages the toothed portion; the saw blade can be adjusted in angle leftwards and rightwards by turning the worm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Meng-Fu Tseng
  • Publication number: 20080041211
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward a system for forming miter joints including a miter saw and an angle gauge. The miter saw includes a platform with a kerf slot and a pair of arcuate slots. Each arcuate slot includes an associated rail located on the underside of the platform. A fence is coupled to each of the rails such that the fence may be pivoted with respect to the platform. The angle measurement tool is a one-handed tool including spring loaded paddles that measure the angle between intersecting surfaces. The angle measurement tool connects to the miter saw to permit the transfer of the measured angle to the fences.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Black & Decker
    Inventors: Louis Gibbons, Gregory S. Snider, Frederick R. Bean, Terry L. Turner, Steven McClaskey, Robert H. Gifford
  • Publication number: 20080041212
    Abstract: An adaptable vent baffle mountable to an underside of a roof deck and to a wall plate of a building structure between a pair of roof rafters having a rafter spacing for permitting ventilation between a soffit and an attic space of the building structure. A main body portion has a longitudinal axis and is positioned generally on a main body plane. A spacer extends from the main body portion and a tail portion is hingedly mounted to the main body portion. The main body portion and tail portion include first and second side edges and a baffle width is defined between the first and second side edges. At least one line of weakness extends generally parallel to the longitudinal axis for modifying the baffle width to adapt to the rafter spacing. A perforating machine for forming perforated lines on the vent baffle is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Matt Kortuem, Palle Rye, Dave Rosten, Richard Partlow
  • Publication number: 20080041213
    Abstract: An improved string for a musical instrument comprising amorphous metal is disclosed. The string may be a single wire of amorphous metal or comprise a core wire and covering wire, wherein the core wire and/or covering wire comprises amorphous metal. Such a string has greater sustain of sound and higher volume of sound over a longer period of use than previously available metal strings. Musical instruments comprising such strings are also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Jacob Richter
  • Publication number: 20080041214
    Abstract: A percussion drum assembly comprising, in combination an annular shell having a vertical axis, and upper and lower flanges extending toward that axis; upper and lower drum heads and annular retainers for the heads; vertically extending adjustment members operatively threadably connected to the flanges; and shoulders that are displaced vertically to bear on the retainers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 16, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Alan Georgeff
  • Publication number: 20080041215
    Abstract: A drum hoop for a tom-tom includes a wooden outer layer, and a metallic inner layer mounted in the outer layer. Thus, the inner layer of the drum hoop is made of metallic material, so that the drum hoop has a greater strength to withstand a striking action of the stick, thereby enhancing the lifetime of the drum hoop. In addition, the outer layer of the drum hoop is made of wooden material, so that the drum hoop has the natural sound effect, thereby enhancing the sound quality of the drum hoop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Wei-Pin Wang
  • Publication number: 20080041216
    Abstract: A pedal stand for a musical instrument includes a main frame, a support rack foldably mounted on the main frame, and a locking device mounted between the main frame and the support rack to detachably lock the support rack on the main frame. Thus, when the push button of the locking device is pushed downward, the support rack is unlocked from the locking device and is pivotable relative to the main frame to fold the pedal stand, so that the pedal stand is folded easily and quickly. In addition, the user only needs to push the push button to fold the pedal stand, so that the pedal stand is folded in an energy-saving manner, thereby facilitating the user folding the pedal stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Wei-Pin Wang
  • Publication number: 20080041217
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention relates to a method for teaching music to one or more students. The instructor's manual operation of a musical instrument controls in real-time the illumination of guide lamps on each student's musical instrument. This allows the students to visually connect the note to be played with the instructor's verbal instruction and then play the visually indicated note without having to look up at the instructor or a distant display. In another embodiment, the instructor's manual operation of his musical instrument provides a score display of the played note on each student's musical instrument. The students can visually connect the played note with the musical notation on the score display. Remote teaching over a communication network is also described as well as a removable interface for the musical instrument to assist in teaching and use of the instrument.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventor: Craig Knudsen
  • Publication number: 20080041218
    Abstract: A recording of a lesson on how to play an instrumental portion of a song that has a plurality of song sections and the one or more of the song sections contains the instrumental portion. The lesson comprises instructions how to play the instrumental portion for each song section, and the instructions are arranged in a chronological sequence as the song sections occur in the song. The recording may also include a recording of a recreation of the song, and in an instruction for each song section there is a recording of the recreated song section that occurs at a beginning of the instruction. The recording may also include a recording of the recreated song section that has the instrumental portion removed and can be played back without interruption so a student may play the instrumental portions as the recording is played.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Mark Hara, John Bryant, Robert Koelble, Abdias Garcia, Greg Hayworth
  • Publication number: 20080041219
    Abstract: To provide a sound output device capable of preferably outputting, while utilizing control data created based on an assumption that sound data will be output via a certain number of speakers, the sound data via a number of speakers that is larger or smaller than the certain number. The main control data storage unit stores main control data. The first sound output control unit outputs sound data from the one or more main speakers based on the main control data. The sub-control data storage unit stores sub-control data. The second sound output control unit outputs the sound data from the one or more sub-speakers based on the main control data and the sub-control data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventor: Naoki Tokiwa
  • Publication number: 20080041220
    Abstract: An audio file editing system enabling creation and editing of audio content within a single multi-layer audio file. The audio editor and method of the invention enables “layering” of audio content relative to other audio content within a single file to create a multi-layered audio file. This enables audio information to be combined in a way that keeps all content active and editable until the final product. An unlimited number of layers can be assembled within a file, constrained only by practical file size limits and system capabilities.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Matthew J. Foust, Evan F. Olcott
  • Publication number: 20080041221
    Abstract: The illustrative embodiment of the present invention is a munitions launch system. The launch system comprises a canister and a cold launch system. In the illustrative embodiment, the cold launch system comprises a sled and a release system. In the illustrative embodiment, the release system includes a sled release mechanism, which releasably secures the sled to the munitions canister, and a munitions release mechanism, which releasably secures a munition to the sled. Actuation of the sled release mechanism releases the sled for movement within the canister. After the sled moves some minimal distance under applied force, the munitions release mechanism “automatically” actuates, releasing the munition from the sled so that the munition can be ejected from the canister.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Randy Gaigler
  • Publication number: 20080041222
    Abstract: A missile launcher that combines the functionality of a gas management system and an anti-fratricide shield is disclosed. In accordance with the illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of gas-uptake ducts are arranged on a boundary that surrounds a missile, thereby providing a barrier to the propagation of blast energy and/or fragments across the boundary.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 10, 2005
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Applicant: Lockheed Martin Corporation
    Inventor: Lawrence Barisciano
  • Publication number: 20080041223
    Abstract: A feedback link which transmits a movement of a servo piston to a control sleeve of a regulator is constituted by a link lever formed of a rigid material and an expansion spring formed of a spring material. The expansion spring is formed by folding a narrow leaf spring substantially into U-shape, and provided with a pair of convexly curved plate portions extending forward from a bent portion as a base end and spread apart from each other in a forward direction. On the other hand, an indented groove which is provided on the servo piston is composed of a parallel groove portion and a tapered groove portion. The convexly curved plate portions are engaged in the parallel groove portion of the indented groove in a resilient deformed state to transmit a displacement of the servo piston from the expansion spring to the link lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Masakazu Takahashi, Kazumasa Yuasa
  • Publication number: 20080041224
    Abstract: A cable operated gas cylinder comprises: a base tube; a spindle which is inserted at hollow part in said base tube; a cylinder which is mounted within said spindle; a piston dividing the gas-filled space within said cylinder into upper part and lower part; a pipe holder sealing airtight the upper part of said cylinder; a gas opening/closing pin which is mounted penetratingly through central part of said pipe holder and for controlling getting in and out of the gas filled within said cylinder; a release arm for controlling the opening/closing of said gas opening/closing pin; a cable for controlling turning of said release arm when being pulled by external force; and a taper holder which receives said release arm therein and rotationally intervenes within said spindle, wherein said release arm and said taper holder are capable of rotating together as said cable rotates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: HO MIN LEE
  • Publication number: 20080041225
    Abstract: An oscillating piston machine comprises a housing in which a first and at least a second piston are arranged, which pistons can rotate together in the housing about a rotational axis which is fixed to the housing and which pistons, as they rotate about the rotational axis, carry out reciprocating oscillating movements in opposite directions to one another about an oscillation axis which extends perpendicularly to the rotational axis and through the centre of the housing, wherein the first piston has a first end face and the at least second piston has a second end face which faces the first end face, wherein the end faces bound a working chamber. The pistons are arranged in such a way that the rotational axis extends through the working chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventor: Herbert Huettlin
  • Publication number: 20080041226
    Abstract: An invention is disclosed for efficiently improving the working capacity and useful service life of an adsorber system by selectively heating the adsorbent towards the purge outlet of the fluid path.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Laurence Hiltzik, Clarence Clontz, Edward Tolles, Roger Williams
  • Publication number: 20080041227
    Abstract: The present invention comprises a process for removal of mercury from a gas stream. It has been found that a metal oxide, preferably copper oxide adsorbent on an alumina substrate can be sulfided in situ while in service to remove mercury. In particular, a copper oxide adsorbent is used that adsorbs sulfur at the same time as it adsorbs mercury. It is actually the sulfur that actually chemisorbs the mercury. The rate of uptake of sulfur is dependent on the amount of sulfur in the feed to the bed. The sulfur content of the gas is typically 2 orders of magnitude that of the mercury, which provides more than enough sulfur to react and remove the mercury.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2006
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Robert C. Mulvaney III, Keith R. Clark, Vladislav I. Kanazirev, Henry Rastelli