Patents Issued in September 2, 2008
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Patent number: 7418962Abstract: The inhaler for aerosol medication is an inhaler having a recirculation chamber or rebreather. The inhaler has an aerosol holding chamber having an inlet end for attaching a holder for aerosol medication or nebulizer device thereto and an outlet end for attachment to a mouthpiece or mask for dispensing the medication or substance to the user, with a recirculation chamber depending from the outlet end of the holding chamber or from a mask extending from the outlet end of the chamber. The recirculation chamber has a filter to capture particles of the dispensed substance and prevent their escape from the device to the ambient air. The recirculation chamber may be folded or collapsed for storage within the volume of the aerosol holding chamber. The aerosol holding chamber may be stored within the recirculation chamber.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2007Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: C. P. Rao
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Patent number: 7418963Abstract: A mouth to mouth resuscitator device for use by a rescuer for resuscitating a victim, the device comprising a sheet of flexible material having a top surface and an undersurface, the sheet forming a mouth opening, a hollow substantially rigid tube having an external surface, a first end, a second end and a tube length between the first and second ends, a tube passage aligned at least in part with the mouth opening, the tube extending from the undersurface of the sheet to the second end and a self closing one-way valve located within the tube passage to restrict flow from the second end to the first end of the tube and to allow flow from the first end to the second end when a rescuer exhales air into the mouth opening, wherein the external surface of the tube forms at least one recess at a location along the tube length, the recess for receiving a victim's teeth.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: Mark D. Westfall
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Patent number: 7418964Abstract: An anesthetic agent cassette is provided for selectively communicating with an anesthesia machine using either analog or digital communication techniques. The anesthetic agent cassette includes an input contact that receives an input signal from an anesthesia machine. Based upon the input signal, the control circuit in the anesthetic agent cassette determines whether the anesthetic agent cassette is coupled to an anesthesia machine that utilizes either digital communication or analog communication. The anesthetic agent cassette includes an output circuit that selectively connects either a digital output line or an analog output line to a single output contact.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: GE Medical Systems Information TechnologiesInventor: Douglas Kirk Bottom
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Patent number: 7418965Abstract: A multilumen unilimb breathing circuit with a detachable proximal fitting for providing respiratory gases to and receiving expiratory gases from a patient. The circuit has unique fittings for connection to patient devices or assisted ventilation systems and components. Despite many teachings away in the prior art from making breathing circuit tubing detachable from the proximal terminal, the proximal end of the rigid multilumen proximal fitting can be attached and detached by a user at a site of use to a mating multilumen proximal terminal while its distal end can be attached to multiple lumens formed of flexible tubing for carrying gases to and from a patient. The present invention introduces for the first time to the multilumen unilimb circuit art a detachable proximal fitting.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Medlis Corp.Inventors: Atsuo F. Fukunaga, Blanca M. Fukunaga
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Patent number: 7418966Abstract: A drape according to the present invention is constructed of or includes conductive and insulating drape segments and is disposed over a top surface of a thermal treatment system having a basin recessed therein. A portion of the drape is pushed down into, and conforms to, the basin to form a drape container or receptacle within the basin for collecting a sterile medium. The conductive segments provide a signal indicating the presence of liquid and/or leaks within the drape container to the system to facilitate control of system operation. In addition, a drape utilized for a plural basin thermal treatment system may form a drape receptacle within each basin. Each drape receptacle includes conductive and insulating drape segments to detect the presence of liquid and/or a leak within that drape receptacle. The conductive segments of the drape receptacles provide signals to the system to facilitate control of system operation.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: O. R. Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Durward I. Faries, Jr., Bruce R. Heymann, David Hendrix
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Patent number: 7418967Abstract: A dishwasher including an improved rack adjustment system is provided. The dishwasher includes a chamber for washing dishes, guide rails at opposite inside walls of the chamber, and a rack that moves along the guide rails into and Out of the chamber for holding dishes. A supporter may be provided at opposite sides of the rack for guiding an up/down movement of the rack along the guide rail, with a locker provided on an outside surface of the supporter for holding the rack in position. A handle may be provided on the outside surface of the supporter to swing in up/down directions to a force to the locker and adjust the rack downward, thereby permitting easy adjustment of rack height.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventor: Yong Hee Kim
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Patent number: 7418968Abstract: The present invention provides a dishwasher, by which noise and vibration of a wash motor can be lowered and by which endurance of the wash motor can be prolonged and by which an assembly of a wash motor and a sump can be simplified. The present invention includes a sump housing having a heater container containing a heater therein and at least one motor guide rib projected from a bottom of the heater container and a wash motor having a motor housing provided with a rib container containing the at least one motor guide rib therein.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: LG Electronics, Inc.Inventor: Jong Chul Bang
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Patent number: 7418969Abstract: A dishwasher having at least one actuator, at least one input device, at least one processor and at least one door defining at least part of a washing area when the door is closed. The dishwasher has at least one supply housing supported by the door, and the supply housing is sized to hold an amount of liquid dish washing supply which is sufficient for a plurality of wash cycles. The actuator is operable to cause movement of the liquid dish washing supply from the supply housing toward the washing area. The input device is operable to receive different inputs associated with different portions of the liquid dish washing supply. The processor is programmed to cause the actuator to cause movement of the different portions toward the washing area for different wash cycles.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Beverage Works, Inc.Inventor: Harry Lee Crisp, III
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Patent number: 7418970Abstract: A substrate processing apparatus includes a container in which a heating plate, a discharge nozzle for discharging a vapor of organic solvent, and a discharge nozzle for supplying a process gas and a cooling gas are provided. A pump in communication with an exhaust outlet of the container exhausts an atmosphere from the container to reduce pressure in the container. Therefore, the substrate processing apparatus is capable of performing (1) the process of drying a substrate in a reduced-pressure atmosphere by the use of the vapor of organic solvent, and (2) the process of drying the substrate in the reduced-pressure atmosphere by heating, to thereby efficiently dry the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2003Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroaki Sugimoto, Seiichiro Okuda, Akio Hashizume
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Patent number: 7418971Abstract: A vending machine and a hose controller system for vending machines wherein the dispenser hose is axially and torsionally controlled to facilitate slight twisting, thereby minimizing applicator tool resistance, and making it easier for users to operate the remote vending tool on the hose distal end. The elongated reinforced applicator hose terminates at the controller, which bridges the hose between the outdoors and the cabinet interior. The controller has an angulated bracket mounted within the vending machine cabinet. A collar assembly secured on the bracket top above a hose feed-through orifice has a terminator, a bushing, and a cooperating yoke that are coaxially secured. The terminator anchors the hose end and is seated within the yoke. A rigid lug projects radially from the yoke. A rigid restrictor surmounts the collar assembly and limits rotation by contact with the lug.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Fragra*matics Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventor: James Larry Ingram
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Patent number: 7418972Abstract: A magnetic attachment is disclosed to be coupled to a conventional walking cane at the handle end thereof that is grasped by the hand of a user. By turning the cane upside down, the magnetic attachment at the handle end can be moved into contact with a magnetic object (e.g., a set of keys) to be lifted off the floor and carried to the hand of the user. By virtue of the foregoing, an elderly or disabled individual will not have to bend over or kneel down to retrieve his dropped keys, or the like. In a first embodiment, the magnetic attachment is a coupling ring that is molded over and around a magnet. The coupling ring has a longitudinally extending channel that is sized to removably receive and surround the handle end of the walking cane. In a second embodiment, the magnetic attachment is a magnet that is retained within a hole that extends laterally through the handle end of the cane.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: Timothy Reeves
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Patent number: 7418973Abstract: A pressure regulator comprising a body portion having an inlet port, an outlet port, and a flow passage positioned therebetween is provided. A valve member and a valve seat are positioned in the flow passage. A spring is coupled to the valve member to urge the valve member along an axis towards the valve seat, wherein the flow passage is substantially closed when the valve member engages with the valve seat. The spring has an extended segment in contact with a fixed surface, whereby the extended segment restricts displacement of the spring in a direction substantially perpendicular to the axis.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.Inventor: Gary Ellis Graham
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Patent number: 7418974Abstract: The invention relates to a tap for a gas or liquefied gas vessel having on a conical threaded base of the tap body a clamping ring adapted to be firmly tightened against a neck of the vessel to maintain a tight engagement of the threads of the base and the neck of the vessel in case of application of a strong impact force to the tap exteriorly of the vessel.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Luxembourg Patent Company S.A.Inventors: Paul Kremer, Paul Muzzo
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Patent number: 7418975Abstract: A fuel cutoff valve of the invention attached to an upper portion of a fuel tank includes a casing, a first part supported by multiple legs, a second part, and a spring. The second part is located below the first part in a vertically movable manner and has multiple air holes formed in a top plate to communicate with a buoyancy chamber. When the fuel level in the fuel tank rises to submerge the second part and reach the first part, the first part rises by its buoyancy to close a connection conduit. In the event of an abrupt rise of the fuel level at a high increase rate, for example, by a sudden turn of the vehicle, the second part rises by the increased buoyancy of the buoyancy chamber by the air retained in the buoyancy chamber and presses the first part up to close the connection conduit. The fuel cutoff valve of the invention promptly closes in response to a heavy ruffle of the fuel level by a sudden turn of the vehicle, so as to prevent the outflow of the fuel from the fuel tank.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masanori Nojiri, Tomohide Aoki
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Patent number: 7418976Abstract: An apparatus, according to various aspects of the present invention, adjusts fluid pressure. The apparatus includes a body, a seal seat, a sphere, and an adjustment rod. The body includes an axis and an adjustment passage. The adjustment passage is positioned angularly to the axis. The seal seat includes an adjustment end portion. The seal seat is disposed in the body and moves along the axis. The sphere is disposed in the body and moves angularly to the axis. The sphere contacts the adjustment end portion of the seal seat. The adjustment rod includes a first end portion and a second end portion. The adjustment rod is movably disposed in the adjustment passage. The first end portion of the adjustment rod contacts the sphere. The sphere in cooperation with the first end portion of the adjustment rod and the adjustment end portion of the seal seat translates displacement of the adjustment rod into axial displacement of the seal seat. The adjustment end portion of the seal seat includes a groove having a ramp.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventors: Jason Scott Henley, Dale Carpenter
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Patent number: 7418977Abstract: A liquid-handling apparatus has a liquid switch, which has a first channel branching into a second and a third channel, wherein the channels are formed in a rotation body. The channels are adapted to route a liquid volume from the first channel into one of the second channel and the third channel dependent on whether a Coriolis force and/or an Euler force prevails a centrifugal force or not. A liquid-handling apparatus having such a liquid switch is particularly suited for applications in which different volumes of liquid have to be passed through a stationary phase.Type: GrantFiled: October 4, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Albert-Ludwigs-UniversitaetInventors: Jens Ducreé, Roland Zengerle, Thilo Brenner, Thomas Glatzel
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Patent number: 7418978Abstract: In a first aspect, a valve assembly is provided that includes a valve assembly output adapted to output at least one of DI water and a chemical. A first valve of the valve assembly includes (1) a first input adapted to receive the chemical; (2) a first output adapted to circulate the chemical to a chemical return; and (3) a second output adapted to output the chemical to the valve assembly output. The valve assembly also includes a second valve positioned downstream from the first valve. The second valve includes (1) an input adapted to receive deionized (DI) water; and (2) an output adapted to output DI water to the valve assembly output. A check valve is coupled between the second output of the first valve and the output of the second valve, and the first valve, second valve and check valve are included in a single manifold.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Sandy Shih-Hsun Chao, Songjae Lee, Ho Seon Shin
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Patent number: 7418979Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an apparatus and method for preventing disbondment in an insulated piping system that is used for conveying high temperature fluids. More specifically, an external slip wrap is shown, capable of surrounding the outer protective jacket of the insulated piping system at a location along the piping before an elbow shaped or angular change in direction. The slip wrap comprises a loosely received outer sleeve which surrounds the outer protective jacket of the piping without being bonded thereto, thereby allowing the insulated and jacketed pipe to move axially relative to the slip wrap for a selected distance once the pipe is buried in the ground.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2007Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Thermacor Process, L.P.Inventor: Thomas Joseph Keyes
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Patent number: 7418980Abstract: The present invention relates to a vacuum cleaner hose manufactured by continuously spirally winding one row or two rows of band-shaped materials extruded with an electric wire inserted therein. The vacuum cleaner hose is formed by spirally winding and sticking a band-shaped material having protrusions connected to each other in a line. In one embodiment, the vacuum cleaner hose is formed from one row of the band-shaped material 2 having a plurality of the hollow protrusions 4 inserted with the electric wire 5 and at least one hollow protrusion 4a inserted with no electric wire 5 is formed into the hose 1. In another embodiment, the vacuum cleaner hose is formed from two rows of the band-shaped materials 2 in which the protrusions of only one row of the band-shaped materials 2 are inserted with the electric wire 5.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: Hyun Mi Lee
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Patent number: 7418981Abstract: Systems, including methods and apparatus, for dispensing biological fluids, such as allergens.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2007Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventors: James W. Baker, Gary A. Kirian
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Patent number: 7418982Abstract: A carrier comprises an enclosure, a cabinet and at least one substrate holder. The enclosure comprises a door. The cabinet is coupled to the carrier. The cabinet comprises at least one valve and contains at least one reduction fluid. The substrate holder is disposed within the enclosure to support at least one substrate.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chen-Hua Yu, Yi-Li Hsiao
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Patent number: 7418983Abstract: A beverage dispenser for ejecting a beverage into a receptacle, including a housing including a taking-in/out space, nozzles provided in the beverage dispenser for ejecting the beverage, obstacle detection module for detecting an obstacle around the nozzle, alarm generator for issuing an alarm when the detection module detects the obstacle, and a nozzle cover for covering the plurality of nozzles and the obstacle detection module to partially close the taking-in/out space. The alarm may not be issued from the alarm means when the beverage is ejected or a switch may be provided for causing the alarm generator inoperative. Thereby, those around the dispenser are informed of the fact that an operator has had unauthorized access to the nozzle in the beverage dispenser.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Suntory LimitedInventors: Yuji Mizuno, Katsumi Takenaka
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Patent number: 7418984Abstract: On a continuous machine for filling capsules with at least one pharmaceutical product, the top shell of a capsule is transferred by advancing the top shell inside a relative seat, which is normally connected to a suction device to retain the top shell as of a loading station, and is connected to a blow device to release the top shell at an unloading station; pneumatic connection of the seat to the suction device being cut off upstream from the loading station in a travelling direction of the seat, so as to pick up the top shell directly at the loading station.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: MG2 - S.R.L.Inventor: Angelo Ansaloni
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Patent number: 7418985Abstract: A saw attachment for pruning trees, shrubs and undergrowth that can be used on a hydraulic vehicle, having auxiliary line connections for accepting attachments. The attachment has cutting blades located at the ends of a swing arm, which is mounted on a plate capable of holding a single, fixed angle of orientation from 0° to 90° with respect to the imaginary plane of the direction of travel of the vehicle. Depending on the type of host vehicle on which the attachment is used, the attachment can be mounted using either a connector plate or an articulated extension arm.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: Tim Torgersen
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Patent number: 7418986Abstract: A tooth (30) for use in a grinding wheel is provided. The tooth comprises a main body (31) including a slot (32) comprising two substantially planar surfaces for, in use, engaging with a slot (24) in the rotor (20), and at least one cutting face (33, 34, 35, 36) connected to and extending away from the main body. In use, the force in the plane of the rotor is transferred from the tooth onto the rotor via one of the planar surfaces provided on the slot.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Multi-Tip Designs LimitedInventor: Patrick Watts
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Patent number: 7418987Abstract: A plastic card-type coin holder folder device for carrying coins fits in a card-carrying section of a wallet. A rigid card the thickness of the coins has circular cut-outs in which to position the coins. Thin plastic strips across a lower portion of a front of the rigid card hold the coins from the front. A thin plastic backing has holes along the top of the coins for pushing the coins forward to retrieve them from the front. A thin plastic cover attaches to the top of the rigid card and folds down over the front of it and is secured by tucking the cover into one of the coin retaining strips.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: Eric W. Duffy
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Patent number: 7418988Abstract: A structurally supported tire includes an outer annular band, and a plurality of web spokes extending transversely across and radially inward from the annular band and anchored in a wheel or hub. The annular band may further comprise a shear layer, at least a first membrane adhered to the radially inward extent of the shear layer, and at least a second membrane adhered to the radially outward extent of the shear layer. A preferred web spoke has a cutaway section transverse to the annular band. The cutaway section has a profile formed by straight line segments joined by a blending radius. The profile of the cutaway comprises a height and a maximum depth greater than five percent of the height and less than thirty percent of the maximum width. The profile has an angle alpha formed by a line tangent to the profile relative to the horizontal at least equal to ten degrees at the radially outermost and radially innermost extent of said profile.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Michelin Recherche et Technique S.A.Inventors: Steven M. Cron, Jean-Pierre Pompier, Timothy B. Rhyne, Ronald Hobart Thompson, Kenneth W. Demino
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Patent number: 7418989Abstract: Preferably, a tire inflation system includes a hub cap secured to a wheel attached to an axle of a vehicle, the axle providing a source of pressurized air. The tire inflation system preferably includes a rotary union assembly with a rotating portion and a non-rotating portion, the rotating portion attachable to the exterior of the hub cap for rotation with the hub cap. The non-rotating portion preferably includes a non-rotating shaft defining an air passage therethrough in fluid communication with the source of pressurized air for transferring pressurized air from the source to the tire. An end of the non-rotating shaft preferably provides a first bearing surface and a housing is rotatably mounted thereon for rotation with the hub cap. The rotating portion preferably includes a rotary member rotating with the housing, the rotary member defining a second bearing surface disposed in abutment with the first bearing surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2007Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Airgo IP, LLCInventor: Anthony L. Ingram
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Patent number: 7418990Abstract: The sidewall of a tire is coated with an acrylic polymer, formed by application of an aqueous solution of the acrylic polymer and a volatile counter ion, which dries to form a non-tacky, glossy and water resistant film.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: Stephan S. Vylasek
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Patent number: 7418991Abstract: A substrate bonding apparatus for manufacturing a liquid crystal display (LCD) device includes stages, wherein the degree to which the stages are bent is minimized by the presence of elastic members.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: LG Display Co., Ltd.Inventors: Sang Seok Lee, Young Kug Lim, Jong Han Kim
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Patent number: 7418992Abstract: A controller for at least one heater utilized in an injection molding system, which includes a regulated voltage supply that is electrically connected to the at least one heater utilized in an injection molding system, at least one sensor operatively associated with at least one heater and utilized in an injection molding system, at least one digital signal processor that is operatively connected to the at least one heater utilized in an injection molding system, the regulated voltage supply and the sensor operatively associated with the at least one heater utilized in an injection molding system based on feedback from the at least one sensor.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Husky Injection Molding Systems Ltd.Inventor: Jim Pilavdzic
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Patent number: 7418993Abstract: A system for producing cast components from molten metal. One form of the present invention includes a system for the precision pouring of molten metal within a casting mold. The precision pouring system is driven by a pressure differential.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2003Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Rolls-Royce CorporationInventors: Donald J. Frasier, M. Eric Schlienger, Guy Allen Brady, Matthew T. Kush, Patrick A. Vessely
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Patent number: 7418994Abstract: A one piece fan shroud for a tractor has first and second faces, a frame with top, left and right sides, a bottom, and an upper wall extending from the top of the frame. The upper wall, left and right sides of the fan shroud are dimensioned to match the internal geometry and seal with an internal surface of a tractor hood. A rubber seal may extend around the upper wall and the left and right sides of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Mark David Evans, Marlin Lavon Goodnight, Timothy Leopold Lessard
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Patent number: 7418995Abstract: A system for cooling an environmentally sealed enclosure. The system includes an air channel extending generally vertically from a top surface of the enclosure to a bottom surface of the enclosure, at least one interior heat sink forming a barrier between the air channel and an interior portion of the enclosure, a fan disposed in the air channel and adapted to force air to flow through the air channel, and a plenum proximate the air channel to duct exhaust air away from the enclosure, wherein air flowing through the air channel cools the enclosure. A method employs the system.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Vanner, Inc.Inventors: Scott Douglas Howard, Philip Warwick Irwin
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Patent number: 7418996Abstract: An integrated liquid cooling system (100) includes a heat absorbing member (10), a heat dissipating member (20) and a pump (15). The heat absorbing member defines therein a fluid flow channel (115) for passage of a coolant. The heat dissipating member is mounted to and maintained in fluid communication with the heat absorbing member. The pump is received in the heat dissipating member and is maintained in fluid communication with the heat absorbing member and the heat dissipating member. The pump is configured for driving the coolant to circulate through the heat absorbing member and the heat dissipating member. The components (i.e., the heat absorbing member, the heat dissipating member and the pump) of the liquid cooling system are combined together to form an integrated structure without utilizing any separate connecting pipes.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Foxconn Technology Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tay-Jian Liu, Chih-Hao Yang, Chao-Nien Tung, Chuen-Shu Hou
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Patent number: 7418997Abstract: A radiator assembly includes a finned radiator core and a debris removing apparatus having a compressed air inlet and at least one compressed air outlet configured to direct compressed air through the radiator core. A work machine such as a wheel loader includes a radiator and a debris removing apparatus coupled with on-board compressed air and having at least one pressurized gas outlet configured to direct a gas toward the face of the radiator.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Kevin L. Martin, Dwight E. Elliott
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Patent number: 7418998Abstract: According to some embodiments, a first sealing portion is provided on a valve shaft to seal a chamber. The first sealing portion may, for example, seal the chamber when the valve shaft is inserted a first distance into an opening of the chamber. A second sealing portion may also be provided on the valve shaft to seal the chamber when the valve shaft is inserted a second distance into the opening.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Intel CorporationInventors: Russell S. Aoki, Michael T. Crocker, Daniel P. Carter
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Patent number: 7418999Abstract: A heat exchanger for a supercritical refrigerating cycle, comprising tubes 510 and tanks 520 which have plural hollow portions 520a and slots 521a for insertion of the ends of the tubes formed, wherein a sectional outline of the hollow portions of the tanks has an approximately semicircular shape with a side corresponding to the diameter directed to the side of the slots. And, the partition members each 523 is disposed between the plate bodies 521 and the tank member 522. The tanks are formed by assembling plate bodies 521 with slots formed and tank members 522 with plural curves formed to configure hollow portions, and the plate bodies are provided with communicating recesses 521b for communicating plural hollow portions.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2003Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Zexel Valeo Climate Control CorporationInventor: Akihiko Takano
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Patent number: 7419000Abstract: An apparatus for holding in place a first casing while a second casing is connected to the first casing, including an annular clamp made up of three segments hingedly fit together to form a ring. The inner surface of each segment includes an insert within a dovetail which creates secure points of contact between the inner surface of the annular clamp and the exterior surface of the casing. The apparatus includes a carrier having two handles and a ring for transporting the annular clamp. The annular clamp can be positioned inside a bowl-shaped housing having a central circular opening adapted for receiving the annular clamp. An adapter plate can be used for retrofitting the apparatus to rigs of all makes and models.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Quality Machine Company, Inc.Inventor: Charles K. Marsh
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Patent number: 7419001Abstract: A tubing hanger suspension assembly for an oil and gas well completion system and a method of installing same. The tubing hanger suspension assembly includes a tubing hanger housing which is positioned in the wellhead housing. The tubing hanger assembly includes a sealing and lockdown mechanism capable of providing sealing and load support of the production tubing in the production casing string. A stab sub assembly connected to the upper end of the tubing hanger suspension assembly and lower end of the Christmas tree assembly provides downhole hydraulic and electric functionality and annulus access to the production tubing.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Azura Energy Systems, Inc.Inventor: Earl Broussard
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Patent number: 7419002Abstract: A flow arrangement (10, 12) for use in a well through one or more underground reservoirs, and where the arrangement (10, 12) is designed to throttle radially inflowing reservoir fluids produced through an inflow portion of the production tubing in the well, the production tubing in and along this inflow portion being provided with one or more arrangements (10, 12) Such an arrangement (10, 12) is designed to effect a relatively stable and predictable fluid pressure drop at any stable fluid flow rate in the course of the production period of the well, and where said fluid pressure drop will exhibit the smallest possible degree of susceptibility to influence by differences in the viscosity and/or any changes in the viscosity of the inflowing reservoir fluids during the production period.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2002Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Reslink G.S.Inventors: Arthur Dybevik, Ove Sigurd Christensen, Terje Moen
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Patent number: 7419003Abstract: An aperture design minimizes erosion on the surrounding casing and to the aperture itself and is particularly effective in fluid injection wells where large volumes of fluids over a long period of time with entrained solids are expected to be pumped through. The preferred design is an elongated shape with a flaring wider in the downhole direction. The downhole end of the opening features an exit that flares in the downhole direction with multiple slopes with an arc transition. Other options for the opening configuration are envisioned.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Baker Hughes IncorporatedInventor: Ronnie D. Russell
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Patent number: 7419004Abstract: A method is disclosed for gravel packing a hole in a subterranean formation including the step of pumping into the hole a gravel pack composition comprising gravel and a carrier fluid comprising a brine-in-oil emulsion, said emulsion being stabilized by an emulsifier based on at least one sorbitan fatty acid ester presenting a shoulder peak before the peak depicted to be the monomer peak when analyzed by gel permeation chromatography. The emulsifiers that exhibit the shoulder exhibit good stability without causing formation damage.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2003Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Schlumberger Technology CorporationInventor: Golchehreh Salamat
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Patent number: 7419005Abstract: This invention relates to the field of treating subterranean formations to increase production. The method of the current invention is particularly useful in hydrocarbon wells that are long, for example, in excess of one kilometer. The method providing increasing production from a primary wellbore by intersecting this wellbore with a secondary wellbore near to the hydrocarbon production zone such that acid treatment or other treatment can be directed to the intersection.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2004Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Saudi Arabian Oil CompanyInventor: Ahmed J. Al-Muraikhi
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Patent number: 7419006Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting wellheads of a fixed-leg drilling and production platform which provide an alternative from the shutting in of producing wells as currently required. The apparatus provides a structural barrier for the production process systems of the platform, shielding such systems from heavy objects which may be dropped in the course of rig mobilization and skidding procedures. A method of installing an embodiment of the apparatus allows the barrier to be installed without shutting in the production wells.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: WZI, Inc.Inventor: James E. Armstrong
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Patent number: 7419007Abstract: A pumping system 10 is provided for pumping fluid from a downhole well to the surface through a production tubing string well. A rotatable drive rod 18 extends from the surface to power the downhole pump, and includes a plurality of rod couplings. The downhole pump includes a pump stator 22 and a rotor 24 rotatable within the pump stator. A lifting member 36 provided at the upper end of the stator is engaged by a drive coupling 34 to retrieve the pump from the well. The lifting member has an internal shoulder 44 tapered radially inwardly and upwardly, such that a rod coupling engages the internal shoulder and passes through the lifting member as the rotor is pulled upward.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Robbins & Myers Energy Systems, L.P.Inventors: Iain R. Belcher, Michael J. Guidry, Jr., Scott Alan Kruppa, Jason Clay Kollatschny
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Patent number: 7419008Abstract: A power slip that utilizes modified SDXL slips and regular drilling bowls that fits to the pin drive master bushings of the rotary table and utilizes the depth of the drive pin holes as part of the actuators, thus allowing the power slip to set lower for added clearance and safety during drilling operations. Cables are anchored to a base plate and slip linkages and slip connectors are pivotally mounted to the slips and to the top plate so that, when the lift cylinders are actuated, the slips are moved to the released position. This two-stage linkage and cable design maximizes the movement of the slip assemblies while minimizing vertical movement of the power slip's housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventors: Frank J. Campisi, Jeffrey L. Bertelsen
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Patent number: 7419009Abstract: An apparatus and method according to which a tubular member is radially expanded and plastically deformed.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Shell Oil CompanyInventors: Robert Lance Cook, David Paul Brisco, R. Bruce Stewart, Lev Ring, Richard Carl Haut, Robert Donald Mack
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Patent number: 7419010Abstract: The present invention provides a fire extinguisher. The fire extinguisher has two cylindrical bodies that can house a plurality of gas cylinders; a plurality of cylinder holders; a plurality of needle tubes that can break sealing plates sealing the gas cylinders; and a plurality of needle tube holders. Either the cylinder holders or the needle tube holders can move at the same time to break the sealing plates of the gas cylinders about the same time.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2006Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Inventor: Hideo Yoshida
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Patent number: 7419011Abstract: The present invention provides a small electrical motor, coupled to the snow plow of a UTV or ATV via a mechanism which allows the plow blade to move in response to unexpected spikes in load. In one embodiment, a braking system is used to absorb the load force. In a second embodiment, a set of pulleys is used in conjunction with a belt, such that the belt will slip in the presence of excessive force. In a third embodiment, a rack and pinion mechanism is used in combination with a spring element to absorb the excessive load.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2005Date of Patent: September 2, 2008Assignee: Curtis International, Inc.Inventors: Marc D. Curtis, Kenneth Ehn