Patents Issued in February 26, 2008
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Patent number: 7334917Abstract: An illumination device comprising at least four luminous units (1, 2), the light emitted by at least two of the four luminous units (1, 2) being suitable for being mixed to form white light. Moreover, an apparatus (3) for dimming at least one of the four luminous units (1, 2) is provided. White light having a desired color temperature (CCT) and a high color rendering index can be generated by means of the illumination device.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Osram Opto Semiconductors GmbHInventor: Joseph John Laski
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Patent number: 7334918Abstract: An LED lighting array is disclosed wherein a plurality of light emitting devices disposed in at least first and second columns are mounted on a planar mounting surface to form an emission plane. The emission axes of all the LEDs in a first column are parallel with each other and lie in a first plane. The emission axes of the LEDs in an adjacent, second column are also parallel, but a second plane containing the emission axes of the second column is disposed at a predetermined, non-zero angle with respect to the first plane. The non-zero angle is a function of the LED beam width and the distance to a lighting target. This configuration of the LEDs provides an optimum balance at a predetermined target distance between the size of the area illuminated and the brightness of the illumination of the target. In one aspect of the invention the LED lighting array includes at least first, second and third columns of LEDs.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Bayco Products, Ltd.Inventors: James Newton, Bijan Bayat
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Patent number: 7334919Abstract: Disclosed are a LED device and the manufacturing method thereof, the device comprises a LED, which is composed of a LED chip and bonded wires, both connected to a plurality of lead frames and enveloped by a lamp cap, wherein one end of the lead frames emerges from the lamp cap; the plurality of insulating lead wires consist of conductors in the center, and the conductor on one end of the lead wires is connected to said emerged lead frame. Moreover, the insulator of said insulating lead wires is bent to the back and extended sideward; a protective device firmly holds the LED, the electrical connecting portion and the bent insulator positioning portion so as to make the insulator not easily to be released and make the LED device become a safe device.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Jeng-shyong Wu
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Patent number: 7334920Abstract: A backlight module (20) includes a plurality of light sources (24) and an optical sheet (21). The optical sheet includes a light incident surface (211), a light emitting surface (212), and a plurality of inverted rectangular pyramid depressions (213). The light sources are positioned adjacent to the light incident surface. The light incident surface and the light emitting surface are at opposite sides of the optical sheet. The inverted rectangular pyramid depressions are defined on the light emitting surface and aligned regularly in a matrix manner.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Shao-Han Chang
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Patent number: 7334921Abstract: A lighting system that includes an elongated strip of flexible, shape-retaining material and a plurality of light sockets mounted on the strip. Each of the light sockets is electrically connected together and may be adjusted individually so that light may be directed in a variety of angles and directions. The flexible material is malleable. All of the wiring is located within and extends along the strip of material with a plug extending outwardly from an end of the strip. The strip may be mounted and secured about or to an indoor or outdoor structure.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2007Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Richard Simnor
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Patent number: 7334922Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly of the present invention includes a circuit board disposed behind the mirror. The circuit board may be a flexible circuit board and may include an LED mounted to project light through a transparent window in the flexible circuit board and through the mirror. The flexible circuit board may function as a mirror heater and may include conductive paths for connection to the LED and/or electrodes of an electrochromic mirror. The LED may include an LED chip mounted directly on the circuit board and encapsulated thereon by an encapsulant.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Timothy A. Bonardi, Randall J. Beute, Randall S. Braun
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Patent number: 7334923Abstract: A vehicle rearview mirror including a housing, a mirror, an LED that has a light emitting element and plane-radiates light in a direction nearly vertical to the optical axis of the light emitting element, and a light-guiding member in which at least the one LED is incorporated at a predetermined position. The light-guiding member has a light reflection surface that reflects light to be plane-radiated from the LED and that allows the reflected light to be radiated in a desired direction, and a light radiation surface that allows direct light to be directly emitted from the LED and the reflected light to be externally radiated by the light radiation surface.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshiharu Tanaka, Akihiro Misawa, Toshinori Takahashi
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Patent number: 7334924Abstract: An optical occupant monitoring arrangement for a vehicle includes a mounting device attached to a fixed structure of the vehicle. A frame is pivotably attached to the mounting device. A rearview mirror is retained within the frame. An optical energy source is fixedly attached to the mounting device and emits optical energy through the mirror into a passenger compartment of the vehicle. An optical energy receiver receives the optical energy emitted by the optical energy source after the optical energy has been reflected within the passenger compartment of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Gregory K. Scharenbroch, Joseph E. Harter, Jr.
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Patent number: 7334925Abstract: A lighted exterior rearview mirror system for a vehicle comprises an exterior rearview mirror assembly adapted for mounting to a side of a vehicle. The exterior mirror assembly includes a reflective element having a heater and a breakaway joint assembly having stationary member and a pivoting member that comprises a bracket supporting an electrically-operable actuator for positioning the reflective element about at least one axis. The exterior mirror assembly comprises a ground illumination or a signal light. The breakaway joint assembly includes a wire-way through which a wire cable passes carrying vehicle control signals and electrical power.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Todd W Pastrick, Linda K Molenkamp, Roger L Koops
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Patent number: 7334926Abstract: A vehicle headlamp, for projecting light forward along an optical axis extending in a longitudinal direction of the vehicle, is provided with a light source, a first main reflector, a second main reflector, a shade, and a projection lens. The light source emits light. The first main reflector is arranged above the light source and reflects the light emitted from the light source toward the optical axis. The second main reflector is arranged below the light source and reflects the light emitted from the light source toward a direction different from the optical axis. The shade cuts a part of the light reflected by the first main reflector to form a cut-of line. The projection lens is arranged in front of the first main reflector and forward projects the light having passed the shade.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Kenichi Takada
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Patent number: 7334927Abstract: A backlight unit with a supporter is provided. The backlight unit at least comprises a bottom cover, a lamp, a diffuser and the supporter. The bottom cover has a first surface, a second surface opposite to the first surface and a hole formed on the bottom cover, through the first surface to the second surface. The lamp is disposed on the first surface of the bottom cover. The diffuser is disposed over the lamp. The supporter comprises a body, a pillar and a clip. The body of the supporter is disposed on the first surface of the bottom cover, for supporting the diffuser. The pillar is abutting to the body and protruding through the hole. The clip is disposed on the second surface for clamping the pillar.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: AU Optronics Corp.Inventors: Ching-Kun Lai, Kuang-Chou Lai
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Patent number: 7334928Abstract: A flat light-emitting lamp includes a first common discharge unit for producing a first electrical discharge according to a first AC waveform having a first phase, a second common discharge unit for producing a second electrical discharge according to a second AC waveform having a second phase different from the first phase, and a plurality of discharge tubes each having first ends connected to the first common discharge unit and second ends connected to the second common discharge unit. The discharge tubes emit light according to the electrical discharges of the first and second common discharge units.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: LG.Philips LCD Co., Ltd.Inventors: Seung Man Gu, Kang Ju Lee
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Patent number: 7334929Abstract: The present invention is a method of producing a multicolor pixel sheet on which pixels of different colors (R, G and B) and a black matrix are formed. Pixels are formed with a gap therebetween on a light-transmitting substrate and each pixel is composed of a coloring layer. The black matrix is formed by a black coloring resin provided at upper surfaces of pixels on the pixel sheet, the gap between the pixels, and the outer periphery defined by the outermost pixels. A two-stage developing process is conducted after exposure from the back and the front of the substrate to form a spacer pattern having a predetermined thickness on the black matrix.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2002Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventor: Morimasa Sato
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Patent number: 7334930Abstract: A light guide element (100) includes a light guide plate (20) and a frame (23). The light guide plate includes a first guiding portion (21), and a second guiding portion (22) adjoining the first guiding portion. The first guiding portion has a first light-emitting surface (211), a first back surface (212) opposite to the first light-emitting surface, and a light incident surface (210) connecting the first light-emitting surface and the first back surface. The second guiding portion has a second light-emitting surface (221) and a second back surface (222) opposite to the second light-emitting surface. A connecting portion (24) connecting the two guiding portions faces the light incident surface. The frame is integrated with the first guiding portion of the light guide plate.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chia-Huang Chang, Ming-Fu Hsu
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Patent number: 7334931Abstract: A luminous backlight unit designed to compensate for a difference in distribution of light output on an output surface of a light guiding panel, and a method of manufacturing a diffuser employed in the backlight unit. The backlight unit includes: one or more light sources that emit light; a light guide panel which guides the propagation of light incident through a side edge thereof and has a light-emission surface; a holographic pattern provided on a surface of the light guide panel, for converting the incident light into a surface light and outputting the converted surface light to the light-emission surface; and a diffuser disposed facing the light-emission surface, for diffusing the emitted light from the light-emission surface and is characterized in that distribution of diffusion angles is varied as it goes from a point close to the light source to a point distant from the light source.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Sun-il Kim, Hwan-young Choi, Moon-gyu Lee
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Patent number: 7334932Abstract: A lighting arrangement (1) of a space-saving configuration, including a fluorescent lamp (2) and at least one light emitting diode (6), which is suitable in particular for use for interior lighting of an aircraft. In this case the light emitting diode (6), viewed in the direction of a main lighting direction (13), is arranged behind the fluorescent lamp (2). The lighting arrangement (1) further includes a light guide element (10) which is adapted to guide light (L2) emitted by the light emitting diode (6) past the fluorescent lamp (2) and emit it substantially in the main lighting direction (13).Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Diehl Luftfahrt Elektronik GmbHInventor: Oliver Klettke
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Patent number: 7334933Abstract: A lighting device that provides a surface that uniformly projects light from single or multiple light sources. It also provides a lighting device that minimizes the number of optical components between the light source and the viewer so as to increase efficiency. It further provides an efficient light projecting surface that can be produced in large sizes, as well as a modular system of components that can be assembled in varied sizes and shapes. Various lighting sources may be used including quasi-point light sources and linear light sources and these light sources may also be used together.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Jerome H. Simon
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Patent number: 7334934Abstract: A light guide device includes a main body and a plurality of parallel elongate first V-shaped microstructures. The main body has an incident surface; an emitting surface adjoining the incident surface; and a reflecting surface opposite to the emitting surface. The first V-shaped microstructures are provided on the reflecting surface. Each of the first V-shaped microstructures has a triangular cross-section having a first base angle nearest the incident surface, a second base angle furthest from the incident surface and a vertex angle. A pitch between adjacent microstructures is configured to be substantially constant. A size of each of the first V-shaped microstructures is defined by the equation is y=9.2637×10?6x2?0.0003x+0.0232, wherein x is a distance from a given first V-shaped microstructures to the incident surface (in units of micrometers), and wherein y is a base width of the given first V-shaped microstructures (in units of micrometers).Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignees: University of Tsinghua, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., LtdInventors: Di Feng, Ying-Bai Yan, Guo-Fan Jin, Shou-Shan Fan
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Patent number: 7334935Abstract: A light positioning frame for a back light module includes an assembly frame composed of an outer frame, a top frame extending from a side of the outer frame, a receiving space, at least one slot defined through a top face of the top face communicating with the receiving space and a first shoulder formed on a bottom face defining the at least one slot and a mask having a base, a light source cap portion extending from a free side of the base and an extension extending into the receiving space so as to be supported by the first shoulder such that engagement between the fixed frame and the mask is finished, whereby a light source received in the mask is securely sandwiched between the fixed frame and the mask and light from the light source is dimmed by the top frame.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Radiant Opto-Electronics CorporationInventors: Ching-Hsiang Chen, Wei-Hsuan Chen
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Patent number: 7334936Abstract: The present invention is a mixing device and a method of mixing viscous fluids with a mixing device. The mixing device includes a shaft and a support mounted for rotation with the shaft. A plurality of vanes extend from the support and are mounted for rotation with the shaft, the vanes extending generally parallel to the shaft and positioned radially outward from the shaft. The vanes have a sloping inner edge which is positioned closer to the shaft at a first portion of the vane than a second portion of the vane. In use, the mixing device is located in a viscous fluid and the shaft is rotated, thereby effecting rotation of the vanes, causing fluid to move through the vanes and mix the fluid.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Site-b CompanyInventor: Ronnald B. King
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Patent number: 7334937Abstract: An impeller vane assembly for blending liquids with solid particulate matter in which a center drive shaft extends through a housing having a solid particle inlet and a liquid inlet together with an outlet, and upper and lower impeller vanes are aligned respectively with the particle inlet and liquid inlet to cause intermixing of the solids and liquids by counterflow of the liquid into the upper impeller region, the upper and lower vanes being separated by a common divider plate, and the vanes are characterized by being curved in the direction of rotation of the impeller and having outer radially extending tips which terminate at the outer peripheral edge of the common divider plate, the vanes being operative to balance the point at which the solids and liquid are intermixed between the solid particle inlet and annular space surrounding the impeller.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventors: Jorge O. Arribau, Michael G. Dubic
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Patent number: 7334938Abstract: An apparatus for monitoring environmental conditions favorable for mold, mildew and fungus growth includes a microprocessor having a data map, a temperature sensor attached to the microprocessor, a relative humidity sensor attached to the microprocessor, an indicator array attached to the microprocessor, and a power supply attached to the microprocessor. The map has a plurality of relative humidity and temperature combinations and one or more suggested actions, for the user, based on the combinations. The indicator array may be a single warning light or an array with a plurality of warning lights. The indicator array may also be a text display or an audio speaker for displaying one or more ambient conditions or suggested actions. Barometric pressure data may also be included with the map for more comprehensive suggestions for action.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Ralph Remsburg
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Patent number: 7334939Abstract: The device comprises a means for measuring a dynamic temperature on the outside of the aircraft, a means for determining a static temperature around the aircraft, using said dynamic temperature, a means for determining, using said static temperature and a thermodynamic equation, a second temperature value corresponding to an estimated temperature at said destination altitude, a means for determining the difference between said first and second temperature values, and a means for emitting a warning signal when said difference is greater than a predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Airbus FranceInventors: Patrice Rouquette, Vincent Markiton
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Patent number: 7334940Abstract: A method for correcting scatter in multi-slice imaging wherein, a projection p and a scatter correction factor R(d, do) are stored in association with each other, a projection p is determined from data D0 collected by imaging a subject with an X-ray beam with a beam thickness d using a detector with a detector thickness do, the scatter correction factor R(d, do) associated with the projection p is determined, and the data D0 is multiplied by the scatter correction factor R(d, do) to obtain scatter-corrected data D1.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: GE Medical Systems Global Technology Company, LLCInventor: Masatake Nukui
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Patent number: 7334941Abstract: An apparatus for washing items comprises a generally cylindrical mesh housing; a first wall and a second wall, said first wall and said second wall being positioned within said housing so as to define first, second and third compartments in said housing; an opening in each of said compartments through which an item to be washed can be placed in or removed from a respective compartment; and a closure device for closing said compartments to retain said items in said compartments when said items are being washed. The first wall and said second wall may each comprise an endless pocket and a stiffener disposed within said pocket. A polymer loop may be used to stiffen said first wall and said second wall. A method of using the apparatus to wash various items, including those of delicate fabrics.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Innovative Home Creations Ltd.Inventor: David S Fenster
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Patent number: 7334942Abstract: A dual seal assembly for a bearing, the assembly comprising a first seal frame (12) coupled to a tip end of an opening in a space formed between an inner ring and an outer ring of the bearing and press-fitted to the outer ring; a second seal frame (14) press-fitted to the inner ring and a main seal member (16); a third seal frame (18) interposed between the first seal frame and the second frame, and press-fitted to one of the first and second seal frames; and an auxiliary seal member (20) inserted into the third seal frame to seal a gap formed between the first and second seal frames, such that the capacity of the bearing can be increased, the bearing can be compactly designed, an operational torque can be reduced, and the sealing performance can be improved making it easy for a user to easily handle the seal assembly before the seal assembly is mounted onto the bearing and to an apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Schaeffler Korea Corp.Inventors: Cheol Hwan Cha, Dae Yong Lee, Kook Hwan Shin
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Patent number: 7334943Abstract: A structure supporting a differential rotatably includes an inner ring arranged at the differential, an outer ring arranged at an external peripheral portion formed to surround the differential, and a tapered roller rolling between the inner ring and the outer ring. At least any one of the inner ring, the outer ring and the tapered roller has a carbo-nitrided layer and provides an austenite grain number falling within a range exceeding 10. Thus the structure can be provided with increased anti-crack strength and dimensional stability, and increased rolling contact fatigue life.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: NTN CorporationInventors: Kouichi Okugami, Yoshinori Muramatsu, Chikara Ohki
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Patent number: 7334944Abstract: In one example embodiment, an optical connector arrangement includes a coupler with a first part and a second part each having a first end to receive an optical fiber core and a second end that releasably couples the first part and the second part. An insert block having a connector face and an assembly face is included in each of the first part and the second part. The connector face has a lens assembly to optically couple the optical fiber core of the first part and the second part, and the assembly face has an axial passageway that terminates in the assembly face and aligns with the first end to receive an end portion of the optical fiber core.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventors: Brian L. Uhlhorn, Gregory M. Drexler, Gregory J. Whaley, Ryan L. Nelson
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Patent number: 7334945Abstract: A hub arrangement for mounting light pipe to receive light includes a light pipe hub for mounting at least one light pipe, with a plug-and-socket arrangement. The plug-and-socket arrangement includes (i) a socket in the light pipe hub for receiving a plug, and (ii) a plug for mounting a light pipe end that is to receive light. A fore end of the plug is receivable within the socket. The plug has a channel for receiving the light pipe through an aft end of the plug. The hub arrangement may also include, if desired, a rod hub for mounting at least one thermally isolating, light-collection rod for receiving light from a light source. The hub arrangement allows easy and rapid coupling of light pipe to an illumination source, using a “plug-and-socket” feature. The hub arrangement may incorporate several safety features to prevent premature light pipe failure.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Energy Focus, Inc.Inventors: Dave Bina, Roger F. Buelow, II, Gregory P. Frankiewicz
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Patent number: 7334946Abstract: An optical-electrical interface for interfacing optical signals with electrical signals. The optical-electrical interface includes an alignment interface for receiving an external waveguide connector from a first side. The alignment interface includes an alignment structure to mate with a corresponding alignment structure of the external waveguide connector to passively align the external waveguide connector. A first microlens is disposed on the first side of the alignment interface. A second microlens is disposed on a second side of the alignment interface. An optical path passes through the alignment interface between the first microlens and the second microlens. A conductor is disposed on the second side of the alignment interface.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Intel CorporationInventor: Daoqiang Lu
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Patent number: 7334947Abstract: The present invention provides an alignment system comprising a base having a feature that accepts a first optical element, a first eccentric element having a through hole that accepts an eccentric assembly comprising a second eccentric element having a feature that accepts a second optical element and is attached to the second optical element via second attachment means, wherein the first eccentric element is engaged with the base via first attachment means and axial alignment between optical axis of the first optical element and optical axis of the second optical element is achieved by rotationally adjusting at least one of the eccentric elements relative to the base. The present invention also provides methods to make and use this alignment system.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Ondine International LtdInventors: Andreas Rose, Guenter Herr, Kyle Johnston
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Patent number: 7334948Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a modular optical device with a component insert for sending and/or receiving optical signals. A first fabricated package includes a light source for generating optical signals and/or a light detector for detecting received optical signals. A second fabricated package includes an opening for accepting circuitry. A lead frame mechanically connects the first fabricated package to the second fabricated package and electrically connects the light source and/or the light detector in the first fabricated package to contacts exposed in the opening of the second fabricated package. A component insert is mechanically coupled to the second fabricated package and electrically coupled to the exposed contacts for electrical interoperation with the light source and/or the light detector to transfer optical signals. The modular optical device can be coupled to a substrate configured to be received within a standard host system slot.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Finisar CorporationInventors: Gary Sasser, Chris K. Togami, David Allouche
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Patent number: 7334949Abstract: A mirror box includes a mirror that is selectively set to one of a reflecting position, which is on an optical path between a photographing lens and an imaging device so that incident light passing through the photographing lens is reflected to a view-finder, and a retracted position, which is out of the optical path so that said incident light is led to the imaging device. A filter is selectively set to one of a non-functioning position, which is close to the mirror, when the mirror is set to the reflecting position, and a functioning position, which is on the optical path so that a predetermined light component contained in the incident light is blocked, when the mirror is set to the retracted position. The filter comprises an optical low-pass filter, and the mirror comprises a half-mirror which is integrally provided on an incident surface of the optical low-pass filter.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: PENTAX CorporationInventor: Atsushi Fuchimukai
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Patent number: 7334950Abstract: A shutter assembly for an optical system includes a shutter housing that maintains optical alignments with adjoining parts of the optical system and a shutter mechanism that can be removed and replaced within the shutter housing without disturbing the optical alignments between the shutter housing and the adjoining parts of the optical system. The shutter mechanism can also include alignment features with the shutter housing for restoring the original optical alignment of the shutter mechanism with the adjoining parts of the optical system.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: VA, Inc.Inventors: David J. Viglione, Adam J. Lamb, Stephen T. Pasquarella
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Patent number: 7334951Abstract: The present invention is to provide a camera head capable of efficiently radiating heat generated by heat sources in the camera head even if it is equipped with a dust-proofing and drip-proofing structure. A heat radiating member having a higher heat conductivity than the heat conductivity of the lens barrel is disposed farther backward in the direction of the optical axis than the lens barrel. Heat generated in a CPU is transferred to the heat radiating member through a mount section, and heat generated in a CCD is transferred to the heat radiating member through the lens barrel. Since the outer circumference of the heat radiating member is always in contact with the external atmosphere, it is maintained at the temperature level of the external atmosphere, and the heat generated in the CPU and the CCD is efficiently radiated into the outer space.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventors: Takehiko Senba, Kentaro Tokiwa, Hiroshi Tanaka, Atsushi Misawa
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Patent number: 7334952Abstract: A staggered keyboard for use with a portable device is provided. The staggered keyboard includes a plurality of keys arranged into a plurality of rows of keys. For each row of keys, the labeling of the keys is arranged in either a linear or an arced relationship depending upon the key layout, but the key centers are staggered from key to key along at least two distinct reference lines or arcs so that adjacent keys can be placed in overlapping and/or contiguous configurations thereby minimizing the size of the keyboard layout. By staggering the key centers while maintaining a familiar layout of the key labels, typing efficiency can be maintained while the overall size of the keyboard is reduced.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2007Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Research In Motion LimitedInventors: Jason T. Griffin, Frank M. Tyneski
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Patent number: 7334953Abstract: A card printer includes a housing, a card inlet and a card outlet. A distance between the card inlet and the bottom of the housing is approximately the same as a distance between the card outlet and the bottom of the housing. When serially connecting two similar card printers, the card outlet of the first printer is positioned corresponding to the card inlet of the second printer. Therefore, a card outputted from the card outlet of the first printer is directly inputted into the card inlet of the second printer thereby simplifying a card printing process and reducing labor.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: HiTi Digital, Inc.Inventor: Kai-Min Chu
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Patent number: 7334954Abstract: A retractable felt tip pen has a seal system that prevents air from drying out the felt between uses. The seal system can be actuated with one hand, and comprises two sealing devices that may be used in series in the pen or may be used alone. The first sealing device is a flexible self-sealing membrane, and the second is a specially-shaped and hinged cap. The membrane is actuated by extension and retraction of the felt itself. The cap may be actuated either by extension of the felt alone or by the push of a finger on the cap. Replacement of the cap is effected by snapping the cap over the end of the pen, again with one finger.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2007Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Ceylon H. Rentz
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Patent number: 7334955Abstract: A turnbuckle head assembly. The device includes a pivot housing to which is secured a pivotable handle. An upper attachment feature is pivotably affixed to the pivotable handle. At the bottom portion of the pivot housing, an attachment feature such as a threaded nut is provided for securely accepting a tensionable member such as a threaded rod. Alignable apertures are provided in frame members of the pivoting housing and in the pivotable handle, for locking the device via pin or lock.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Jon D. Kay
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Patent number: 7334956Abstract: A coupler for to which a shaft is attachable is provided. includes a base. The base is formed with an upper side and an lower side. The lower side is substantially a flat planar surface. Means are provided for mounting the base on a curved surface. A preferred means is one or more ball washer assemblies. In addition, the present invention includes a tub that is adjustably connectable to the base. A plug is provided that is repositionably attachable to the tub. In addition, a neck is provided. The neck is insertable into the plug. The neck also is formed to support a shaft. The invention includes a clevis mechanism that is slidably and demountably engageable with both the plug and the neck.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventor: Steve B. Taylor
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Patent number: 7334957Abstract: A lightweight fence or gate pole is provided having a lock assembly including a base attached to the lightweight pole, a support member extending from the base, a connector extending from the support member, the connector having a snap button connected thereto and a screw attached to the connector. The lock assembly has a locked position when a screw head is adjacent to an outer surface of the lightweight pole and the lock assembly has an unlocked position wherein the screw head is farther away from the outer surface of the lightweight pole than in the locked position.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Guardian Pool Fence Systems, Inc.Inventors: Steven E. Sadinsky, Blaine Hall
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Patent number: 7334958Abstract: A first and second component joint includes using a fastener having a first end, and a flange having a diameter greater than a tubular barrel portion. A second end having a second tubular barrel portion merges into a shoulder of a flange part having a greater diameter than the barrel portion. The first tubular barrel portion is deformed radially outwardly sandwiching the first component between the flange and the first barrel portion. The second end of the fastener is introduced through a hole in the second component by applying the second component to the first component so the shoulder of the flanged part abuts the second component spacing the second component from the first component. The fastener device is fastened to the second component by deforming the second tubular barrel portion radially outwardly sandwiching the second component between the shoulder and the tubular barrel portion.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Profil Verbindungstechnik GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Rudolf Müller, Michael Vieth, Hans Broich, Jiri Babej
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Patent number: 7334959Abstract: A fixing device has a lug strip (10). At least one end (12) of the lug strip (10) is bent to form a fixing loop (14). A fixing space is provided by two enclosing pieces (16) and receives a retainer (22, 24). The retainer (22, 24) has two opposing fixing pieces (26) for a unit with the both enclosing pieces (16) and is provided with a functional piece (28, 30). Both fixing pieces (26) are diametrically opposed to each other on the respective retainers (22, 24), and have fixing surfaces. The functional piece (28, 30) runs at least partly perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis of the fixing piece (26). Each fixing surface is provided with a convex curvature. A fixing device with few components, which can be easily finished to give a lug at the site of assembly without any additions is achieved. The convex curvature of the functional piece (28, 30) runs perpendicular to the common longitudinal axis of the fixing pieces (26) essentially along a semi-circle.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2002Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Hydac Accessories GmbHInventors: Reinhard Holthaus, Thomas Schmid
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Patent number: 7334960Abstract: An attachment device for coupling one or more removable turbine components to a carrier of a turbine engine. The attachment device may include a securement structure rotatable about an axis of rotation and including one or more arms for grasping an arm extending from a support structure. A fastener may extend from the support structure and be inserted into a fastener receiving recess in the securement structure for preventing the securement structure from rotating and becoming disengaged from the support structure. The attachment device may also include a fastener retaining device for preventing the fastener, which may be a threaded bolt, from becoming disengaged from the attachment device, traveling downstream in a turbine, and damaging a turbine assembly.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Siemens Power Generation, Inc.Inventors: John C. Glessner, Stefan Dahlke, Robert O. Nicosia, Ricardo F. Moraes
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Patent number: 7334961Abstract: A linear locking set screw system capable of rapid linear engagement and disengagement includes a threaded outwardly expandable set screw and an expander member which are constructed and arranged to thread easily into a threaded aperture while in a first release position and can thereafter be securely locked in place and/or provide a secondary clamping force in a second engaged position. In this manner, the linear fastener system is capable of providing a precise, secure, and reproducible connection between multiple components without the need to apply rotational torque to the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Zimmer Spine, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Doubler, John E. Hammill, Sr.
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Patent number: 7334962Abstract: A joint assembly for controlling fractures along a fracture axis in a monolithic pour concrete structure is provided. The concrete structure is defined by a first edge form section and a generally opposed second edge form section. The joint assembly is characterized by a suspension line extending between the first edge form section and the second edge form section, and a fracture inducing sheath suspended therefrom within the concrete structure. The sheath may define an elongate slit that exposes an internal channel that the suspension line traverses. Additionally, a method for forming a control joint in a monolithic pour concrete structure via the joint assembly is provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Shaw & Sons, Inc.Inventors: Lee A. Shaw, Ronald D. Shaw
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Patent number: 7334963Abstract: A joint stabilizing apparatus having an expandable cylindrical housing is inserted into a circular hole drilled at a “loose joint” of a concrete slab that is to be stabilized against relative vertical displacement between adjacent slab sections. The hole is drilled downward into the concrete, centered on the plane of a lateral opening/joint in the concrete slab. The expandable housing comprises two rigid semi-circular housing halves, and the assembly is oriented inside of the circular hole such that the two housing halves are on opposite sides of the centerline of the lateral opening/joint. The housing halves are pushed apart by turning of a threaded bolt inside of the housing. Turning of the bolt causes two bi-laterally symmetric wedge blocks to draw towards each other, and pressing the bearing surfaces of the wedge blocks against inclined surfaces inside of the respective housing halves.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2005Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Surface Dynamics, Inc.Inventors: Robert P. Costa, Do Sun Im
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Patent number: 7334964Abstract: A combination compacting and smoothing asphalt finishing machine comprising primary finishing elements which may be either compacting tires or smoothing rollers. The primary elements are driven and steered by engine and hydraulic mechanisms conventionally. The machine further comprises secondary asphalt finishing elements which complement the primary elements, being either smoothing rollers or ganged rubber tires. The secondary elements are pivotably attached to the frame of the machine. In a first position, the secondary elements are not in contact with the asphalt layer or with the primary elements and the weight of the machine is borne only by the primary elements. The secondary elements are hydraulically actuable and may be pivoted into a second position wherein only the secondary elements are in contact with the asphalt layer and are in driving contact with the primary elements which are thus raised from contact with the asphalt layer.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2007Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Inventors: Freddie Lee Brown, Sr., Freddie Lee Brown, Jr.
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Patent number: 7334965Abstract: A method for treating a body of a polluted porous medium, includes the steps of: preparing a reactive solution containing nanoparticles; injecting the reactive solution into the body of the polluted porous medium so as to decompose pollutants in the polluted porous medium by reacting the nanoparticles with the pollutants; and applying an electric field to the body of the polluted porous medium so as to enhance transporting effect of the nanoparticles in the body of the polluted porous medium.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2006Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: National Sun Yat-Sen UniversityInventor: Gordon C. C. Yang
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Patent number: 7334966Abstract: A tubular structure is reinforced or reinstated by providing a reinforcing layer in its interior in spaced relation to the existing structure so that a cavity is formed. Plastics or polymer material, preferably a compact elastomer, is injected into the cavity and cures to bond the existing structure and reinforcing layer together so that shear forces are transferred and the reinforced structure behaves as a composite body.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Intelligent Engineering (Bahamas) LimitedInventors: Peter Marshall, Stephen J. Kennedy