Patents Issued in September 25, 2008
  • Publication number: 20080230619
    Abstract: A heater for a heating or heating and air conditioning unit employs a screen positioned between a heater and a fan of the unit. The screen disrupts air flowing from or to the heater to reduce noise generated by the unit when the heater is energized. The screen partially disrupts the air flow between the heater and the fan.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Robert Kirby
  • Publication number: 20080230620
    Abstract: A hot water supply apparatus, capable of ensuring high safety in supplying hot water in case of power failure, which is configured as follows: When a voltage detected by a voltage sensor is a preset voltage or less, a mixing valve is operated so as to obtain a predetermined valve opening corresponding to a temperature detected by a temperature sensor. This permits the mixing valve to be driven by electric power when a voltage of a power supply drops, and the mixing valve to have such a valve opening that a temperature of hot water to be supplied to a user is a predetermined temperature or less, thus supplying hot water at a predetermined temperature or less to the user in case of power failure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: SANDEN CORPORATION
    Inventor: Satoshi IDA
  • Publication number: 20080230621
    Abstract: The invention relates to track system having two substantially parallel tracks (6) which are disposed on respective concrete slabs (1) of a fixed track. The slabs (1) comprises a plurality of track supports (2, 2?) for receiving and fastening thereon two parallel rails (5). The top surfaces (3) of the slabs (1) of the two tracks (6) are inclined independent of the a guiding system of the tracks (6) and of the corresponding position of the rail supports (2, 2?) relative to the two outer sides (8) of the track system and form a slope. The invention also relates to a concrete slab of a fixed track, which comprises supports (2, 2?) for the first rail (5) which are higher in relation to the top surface (3) of the slab (1) than the supports (2, 2?) for the second rail (5).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Stefan Bogl
  • Publication number: 20080230622
    Abstract: An apparatus adapted to disseminate volatile liquid, such as a fragrance, into an atmosphere comprises a reservoir (1) containing volatile liquid and, extending into and therefrom, an essentially cylindrical liquid transfer member (4) that transfers liquid from the reservoir to an evaporating surface (6) through which the transfer member passes by means of a hole in the evaporating surface. The evaporating surface comprises a rigid sheet that extends essentially laterally from the transfer member and bears on its surface capillary channels adapted to accept liquid from the transfer member and spread it over the surface of the evaporating surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2004
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Colin Brown, Guy Edward Naish, Kishen Gohil
  • Publication number: 20080230623
    Abstract: A remote control actuator apparatus comprising a recharger, a battery pack, a valve actuator, and connecting couplers. The valve actuator comprises an RF receiver and a 12 VDC/24VAC inverter. A hand held battery operated remote controller transmits a given signal for a given water valve control to an RF receiver in the valve actuator, which then sends 24 volts AC signal through a coupler to either a cable with magnetic connectors or a remote control module connected to wiring between the valve control and the valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Donald H. Macnow, Scott D. Macnow
  • Publication number: 20080230624
    Abstract: An electric solenoid valve and electronic circuitry for actuating the valve in such a manner as to control the liquid flow into a device, such as a spray nozzle, is described. By altering the characteristics of the electrical signal driving the valve, the flowrate of liquid through the valve and the pressure drop across the valve during the instantaneous flow can be controlled with a single actuator. The complex waveform of the solenoid drive signal allows decoupled control of droplet size and average flow rate through the nozzle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: THE REGENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Durham K. Giles, Duane Needham
  • Publication number: 20080230625
    Abstract: A spray bar typically utilised for the application of fluids such as hot bitumen onto an adjacent surface has an inner tube (2) which is rotatable relative to an outer tube (17) byway of an actuator (24). The outer tube (17) has various spray nozzles (21) which are designed to deliver fluid fed to the spray bar through a fluid supply passage (3), onto the adjacent surface. The rate of flow to each nozzle is controlled by a series of corresponding apertures in the inner tube (2) and the outer tube (17) which are moved into or out of alignment by rotation of the inner tube relative to the outer tube via the actuator (24). By providing different patterns of apertures corresponding to different nozzles (21) it is possible to achieve altering spray patterns by rotation of the inner tube relative to the outer tube into predetermined orientations. The spray bar according to the invention also has the advantage over the prior art of simplified actuation controls and more robust and reliable construction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Timothy Williams
  • Publication number: 20080230626
    Abstract: A siphon type of drying gun includes an arc diverter disposed between an inner end surface in an accommodation space in a body of the gun and a flared hole. A rear cover having a flange is screwed into the body. An exhaustion gap is defined between the flange of the rear cover and the arc diverter. A front tapered hole in the rear cover corresponding to the arc diverter to guide the compressed air admitted into the exhaustion gap to flow by following the arc diverter and taking a turn into the flared hole so to produce siphon effects against ambient air to reduce noise level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Wuu-Cheau Jou
  • Publication number: 20080230627
    Abstract: An apparatus for lengthening an extendible pipe comprised of first and second pipe portions having an interior includes a cylinder having an end wall and an open end connected to the first pipe portion. A piston is received in slidable and sealable engagement with the cylinder and is connected to the second pipe portion. The piston, cylinder and end wall define a chamber that is physically isolated from the interior of the pipe. Introduction of a control fluid into the chamber displaces the piston relative to the cylinder so as to lengthen the pipe. The apparatus above may be applied to a sprinkler head riser apparatus and buried as part of an in-ground sprinkler system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Donald George Stewart, Geordie Wayne Vandekerckhove
  • Publication number: 20080230628
    Abstract: A sprinkler includes a stationary portion configured for connection to a fluid source and a head with an outlet for emitting fluid. A stem supports the head and is configured for translating along a longitudinal axis and for rotating about the longitudinal axis. At least one retainer is disposed between the stationary portion and the stem. The retainer is configured for permitting the stem to rotate about the longitudinal axis relative to the stationary portion when a rotational force applied to the stem exceeds a predetermined amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Mona-Lisa Alexander
  • Publication number: 20080230629
    Abstract: In one example, a gas turbine engine includes an exhaust nozzle. The exhaust nozzle includes a flap supported relative to a static structure by a strut. The flap includes a backbone providing a slot. A slider interconnects a strut end to the backbone. In one example, the slider includes a body that is slidingly received within the slot. A boss extends from the body and provides a first feature. The strut end includes a second feature that cooperates with the first feature to prevent relative rotation between the slider and a portion of the strut end.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Keegan M. Martin
  • Publication number: 20080230630
    Abstract: A system, in one embodiment, is provided with a fluid container configured to mount on a spray device, and a color additive applicator coupled to the fluid container. A system, in another embodiment, is provided with a color matching support configured to receive a plurality of different color sources, wherein the color matching support is configured to enable the plurality of different color sources to provide different colored additives to a fluid mixing chamber of a spray device. A system, in a further embodiment, is provided with a color additive applicator configured to couple to a fluid container disposed on a spray coating device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Mark E. Charpie
  • Publication number: 20080230631
    Abstract: The invention is a dual-axis force transmission mechanism that operates as an actuator for the valve of fluid dispensing devices. It comprises a rotating trigger member (101) that pivots as a force is applied by the operator. The transmission mechanism preferably includes a rack and pinion arrangement in which a pinion gear (108) located on the rotatable trigger member (101) intermeshes with a rack gear (107) located on the opposing force transmission frame. This mechanism inter-converts a force applied to the rotatable trigger (101) into a rectilinear force that is then transmitted to operate the fluid dispensing valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Davis Asbury White
  • Publication number: 20080230632
    Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and method for generating a mist comprising a conduit having a mixing chamber and an exit; a working fluid inlet in fluid communication with said conduit; a transport nozzle in fluid communication with the said conduit, the transport nozzle adapted to introduce a transport fluid into the mixing chamber; the transport nozzle having an angular orientation and internal geometry such that in use the transport fluid interacts with the working fluid introduced into the mixing chamber through the working fluid inlet to atomise and form a dispersed vapour/droplet flow regime, which is discharged as a mist comprising working fluid droplets, a substantial portion of the droplets having a size less than 20 ?m.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Marcus Brian Mayhall Fenton, John Gervase Mark Heathcote, Alexander Guy Wallis
  • Publication number: 20080230633
    Abstract: A discharge head for fluids, with a discharge nozzle (1) which has a discharge opening (2) and accommodates an internal sleeve (5) in which is arranged an internal body (4) which delimits an outlet channel (7) and has a connecting element (8) for connection to a counterpart (9) of a discharging apparatus, the internal sleeve (5) having, on the end side adjacent to the discharge opening (2), a sealing surface (10) against which a valve stopper (3) which is located on the internal body (4) and closes the outlet channel (7) is spring prestressed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Heiko Harms
  • Publication number: 20080230634
    Abstract: A injector nozzle for a cryogenic fluid wherein both the kinetic energy of the discharge stream, and the residual volume of cryogenic fluid contained within the nozzle is reduced, the dispensing nozzle of a generally showerhead type configuration, with discharge ports disposed at the periphery of the showerhead discharge face, and a filler member disposed internal to the showerhead assembly, to reduce the volume of the conical chamber immediately upstream of said discharge faceplate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Alan T. Ziegler
  • Publication number: 20080230635
    Abstract: A fluid injector has a housing, a valve body and an actuator unit, that is inserted into the housing. The valve body has a cartridge with a recess, that takes in a needle (22). A receptance (221) is formed in the needle (22) and fixes a locking element (233) in an axial direction relative to the needle (22). A return spring (24) rests on the spring rest body (23) which is pretensioned in a way that it presses the spring rest body (23) against the locking element (233).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Gianbattista Fischetti, Cristiano Zanoboni
  • Publication number: 20080230636
    Abstract: The Condiment Sprinkler is a spoon- or spatula-shaped device which provides a way for dry salt-type condiments to be evenly and effectively sprinkled onto food (in contrast to the “shaker” method). The Condiment Sprinkler comprises a generally convex bowl or open-ended shovel-shaped spoon and a handle, the shallow bowl (which may be round, ovate, or elongated) being somewhat flattened on the bottom and having raised ribs therein. The raised ribs may form a cross design. The raised ribs—whether they be in a cross design or some other appropriate design, such as ribs or bumps—serve to interfere with or dampen the centripetal and/or centrifugal forces generated when the sprinkler is waved, thereby impeding dumping or clumping of the salt-type condiment on the food. With use of the Condiment Sprinkler, the user can gain precise control over the salt-type material he/she is applying.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Ronald L. Post
  • Publication number: 20080230637
    Abstract: The subject matter herein relates to coal mills and, more particularly, inferential pulverized fuel flow sensing and manipulation within a coal mill. Various embodiments provide systems, methods, and software to manipulate a primary air flow rate and a coal feed rate into a coal mill to produce a target pulverized fuel flow. Some embodiments include sensing a differential pressure between two or more locations within a coal mill to estimate a recirculated load of coal at one or more stages within the coal mill.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Vladimir Havlena, Jaroslav Pekar, Daniel Pachner
  • Publication number: 20080230638
    Abstract: A food processor includes a control unit that is operable in accordance with an initial control signal from a switch unit so as to activate a motor unit to operate in a sequence of an initial judgment mode and a food processing mode. The control unit switches operation of the motor unit from the initial judgment mode to the food processing mode upon determining a first target rotary speed in accordance with a motor rotation signal generated by a sensor unit for indicating a rotary speed of the motor unit during operation of the motor unit in the initial judgment mode so as to drive rotation of a cutting blade unit provided in a container to process food items contained in the container. The control unit activates the motor unit to rotate at a second target rotary speed associated with the first target rotary speed during operation of the motor unit in the food processing mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Tsann Kuen Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Fang Chuan LIN, Chien Chung Lee, Sung Kai Chen, Shun Yung Chang, De Ming Wang, Kuan Wei Lee
  • Publication number: 20080230639
    Abstract: The invention provides an interlock system whereby operation of a domestic appliance such as a food processor containing an electric motor capable of driving a bladed or similar processing tool at relatively high speed is inhibited unless a vessel having a first or a second base configuration is securely mounted to the appliance so as to contain the tool; the vessel having a lid or cover intended to be in place for safe operation when the processing tool is driven by the motor. A vessel-supporting surface of the appliance carries several up-standing latches, each of which is formed with features capable of co-operating with vessels having either of the base configurations to temporarily latch either type of vessel operationally to the appliance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 3, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: KENWOOD LIMITED
    Inventor: Robin Ferraby
  • Publication number: 20080230640
    Abstract: A shredder including a shredding mechanism, a housing at least partially enclosing the shredding mechanism, and a receptacle that receives and contains shredded material is provided. The shredder may further includes a compactor including a ram that, when actuated, moves through the receptacle to compress shredded material in the receptacle. The shredder may further include a foot operated lever coupled to the compactor to actuate the ram. The compactor may also include a scissor mechanism that guides the ram through the receptacle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Staples The Office Superstore, LLC
    Inventors: William J. Mussig, David Logan Baker, Darren W. Abrams, Benoit Devinat, Daniel A. Barry, Tc Wang
  • Publication number: 20080230641
    Abstract: Material reduction apparatus is provided in the form of a staged cascade mill comprising a vertically stacked series of material reduction chambers, each having therein a single motor-driven rotor structure, the chambers being interconnected in a manner such that the material to be reduced in size may be sequentially passed through the chambers from the uppermost chamber to the lowermost chamber. Each of the stacked chambers has an adjustable reduction structure disposed therein and operative in a manner such that the material reduction action from the uppermost chamber to the lowermost chamber progressively changes from a predominantly impact type material reduction action to a predominantly crushing/grinding type material reduction action.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: DYNACORP ENGINEERING INC.
    Inventor: Wendell E. Howard
  • Publication number: 20080230642
    Abstract: An apparatus and process for defined comminution of polymer gels, wherein the apparatus includes a static cutting element in the form of a cutting screen. The cutting element is optionally supported, and has pretensioned wires, rods, fibers, wovens, stencils or profiles. Optionally, a dynamic cutting element is provided for shortening the gel strands or particles obtained by means of the static cutting unit. Also, a feed unit is provided for feeding the polymer gel to the static cutting element in a clamped-in, shape-stable state. The feeding of the gel is effected batchwise or continuously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Gerhard Schoppel, Georg Haeubl, Marion Wagner, Helmuth Kirsch, Erich Schulz, Gerald Summer
  • Publication number: 20080230643
    Abstract: A cabling spool and a method for using a cabling spool (1, 2) with integrated spool lids (1). The cabling spool (1, 2) form the inner half of a hollow torus in which the cable may be spooled. The centre of the torus, i.e. the cylindrical core of the spool, comprises two axles. The cabling spool further comprises a external cabling lock (14) attached to the side edge of the cabling spool. The spool lid (1) is a hollow torus arranged on the outside of the ideal torus of the spool (1, 2), with slots (2, 6) in the surface of the torus to allow access to the spool and to open for movement of the spool around the spool grips spolefestene (3, 7) to provide an opening and locking function of the lid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Gunnar Anton Ornskar
  • Publication number: 20080230644
    Abstract: A vehicle sensitive retractor control system having reduced sensitivity to Z-axis acceleration experienced during normal driving. The retractor control system incorporates a rolling mass and a locking lever which, in a resting position, are arranged such that the locking lever does not engage a ratchet wheel of a seat belt retractor spool. In response to accelerations in the horizontal plane, the rolling ball mass becomes unseated from its resting position and engages the locking lever, causing it to pivot and lock the retractor. In response to Z-axis acceleration, the rolling mass is prevented from contacting the locking lever by a mass restrictor. A soft damping spring is also provided to bias the locking lever against a lever rest. The spring is sized to overcome the inertia of the locking lever and prevent it from “bouncing up” and engaging the ratchet wheel in response to Z-axis accelerations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Gunter K. Clute, Robert A. Mical
  • Publication number: 20080230645
    Abstract: An endpiece which forms an integral part of a mandrel used to support a roll of material engages a guide. The endpiece comprises a cylindrical part which can be inserted into the mandrel, a collar which rests against a facing surface of the endpiece, and a projecting attachment. A guiding and retaining groove is provided along the length of the projecting attachment to form a guide path. A cooperating guide is provided on a bracket that supports the roll of material. The guide is disposed on an inner side of the bracket and comprises slightly-projecting flats which form and define a channel to receive the projecting attachment of the endpiece as so enable the endpiece to be inserted and retained therein. The channel extends into a part for receiving the endpiece following the insertion thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Maurice Granger
  • Publication number: 20080230646
    Abstract: The unwinding device comprises: a rotating element (3) with supports (13, 15) for at least two reels (B1; B2; B3); a splicing member (31, 33, 35) to join a first web material (N1) coming from an expiring reel (B1) to the initial free end (T) of a second web material (N2) wound on a new reel (B2). At least one mechanical member (21) is associated with each support (13; 15), to retain the initial free end (T) of the reel disposed on the support, to hold the initial free end until splicing of the two web materials.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Fabio Perini S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alessandro Morelli, Mauro Gelli
  • Publication number: 20080230647
    Abstract: A method of grounding a dispenser. A low impedance path is connected to elements internal to the dispenser. The low impedance path is also connected to a surface contact spring which is adapted to contact an external mounting surface when the dispenser is affixed thereto. Static electrical charge accumulated on the elements is discharged through the low impedance path and the surface contact spring to the external mounting surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: GEORGIA-PACIFIC CONSUMER OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: John R. Moody, Joshua M. Broehl
  • Publication number: 20080230648
    Abstract: Spool for receiving a wound skein product includes a rotationally symmetrical spool body, with two axial ends provided with flange discs (16, 18), the spool being divided into two parts (10, 12) by a substantially radial dividing surface, these parts having front surfaces (36, 38) running adjacent and parallel to the dividing surface (14), the front surfaces having locking projections (48, 50) on at least one surface and, on the other surface at least, detent recesses (40, 42) which interact with the locking projections of the other spool part (10, 12), respectively, interlocking therewith in the form of a bayonet catch by mutual rotation of spool parts (10, 12), and the front surfaces (36, 38) are contrived such that the dividing line appearing around the spool circumference is wave-shaped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: HÄFNER & KRULLMANN GMBH
    Inventor: Manfred Hafner
  • Publication number: 20080230649
    Abstract: An aircraft 1 with a spiral inducing assembly 2 which is capable of inducing the aircraft to travel in a continuous spiraling motion without the aircraft rolling. A ramjet 6b is attached to a tube 3 that is able to rotate around the encircled part of the fuselage. The ramjet 6b is able to rotate in a pivoting manner on the rotate-able tube 3 with respect to the rotate-able tube 3, thereby changing their pitch relative to the longitudinal axis of the rotate-able tube 3. Ramjet 6b is smaller than another ramjet on the right side of the tube 3. The difference in size between the ramjets makes the ramjet 6b exert a weaker force on the rotate-able tube 3 than the ramjet on the right side when the ramjets are rotated in the same direction. The imbalance between the rotational forces thus causes the rotate-able tube 3 to rotate. A fin 6c is also able to cause the rotate-able tube 3 to rotate during flight. When rotated, the ramjets would exert a lateral force on the rotate-able tube 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Tom Kusic
  • Publication number: 20080230650
    Abstract: The invention relates to an aircraft landing gear comprising a landing gear leg, wherein the landing gear leg or one or more parts of the landing gear leg consists partly or completely of a fiber composite material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Jorg Meyer, Ulrich Grabherr, Werner Hufenbach, Olaf Helms, Ole Renner, Maik Gude
  • Publication number: 20080230651
    Abstract: The invention concerns a turbofan provided with a pre-cooler. The invention is characterized in that to evacuate the heated cool air stream (24), at least one discharge pipe (25) is arranged in the chamber (12) and connects the pre-cooler (18) to at least one discharge orifice (26) provided in the inner fairing (10), in output of the exhaust nozzle (3) and at least more or less opposite the wing (16).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: AIRBUS FRANCE
    Inventor: Alain Porte
  • Publication number: 20080230652
    Abstract: Composite sections for aircraft fuselages and methods and systems for manufacturing such sections are disclosed herein. A composite section configured in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a skin and at least first and second stiffeners. The skin can include a plurality of unidirectional fibers forming a continuous surface extending 360 degrees about an axis. The first stiffener can include a first flange portion bonded to an interior surface of the skin and a first raised portion projecting inwardly and away from the interior surface of the skin. The second stiffener can include a second flange portion bonded to the interior surface of the skin and a second raised portion projecting inwardly and away from the interior surface of the skin. A method for manufacturing a section of a fuselage in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes positioning a plurality of uncured stiffeners on a mandrel assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2004
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Robert D. Biornstad, Bruce C. Blankinship, Terry J. George, William H. Ingram
  • Publication number: 20080230653
    Abstract: An electrically controlled dimmable window for aircraft includes a controller and power that eliminates the need for wiring connections to on-board systems. The controller is integrated into the sidewall in which the window is mounted. Power for controlling the window is derived from an energy harvesting device that generates power by converting thermal gradients, motion/vibration or light energy present near the window. The integrated controller includes passenger controls for adjusting the opacity of the window, power conditioning circuitry, an electrical power storage device such as a battery, a processor and a radio receiver. The window can be remotely controlled by a cabin attendant from a central controller that transmits window control signals to the radio receiver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Bradley J. Mitchell, Trevor M. Laib, Henry V. Fletcher
  • Publication number: 20080230654
    Abstract: A toroidal shaped or ring fuel tank located within the loft line of a blended wing body aircraft is disclosed. The ring tank may be used in an aircraft to store liquid hydrogen fuel with a reduced tank weight. The ring tank may be continuous with no tank end domes typically found on cylindrical pressure tanks, reducing tank weight for a given fuel volume. The ring tank configuration avoids increasing the aerodynamic shape of the aircraft and does not encroach on usable passenger or payload areas of the aircraft. In one example the ring tank may be configured in a nose down position such that the forward portion of the ring tank is outside the pressurized cabin area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Alexander Velicki, Daniel A. Hansen
  • Publication number: 20080230655
    Abstract: An air barrier having a scuff coating is used in connection with the core of a spacecraft to form an inflatable, or expandable, human habitat module. The air barrier is comprised of a number of segments joined together to form a enclosure that has at least one opening. The joined segments are generally gas impermeable, flexible, and have a scuff coating on both sides of the segments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Robert T. Bigelow
  • Publication number: 20080230656
    Abstract: Reconfigurable aircraft wings with at least one set of hinged upper and lower vanes and aircraft that are equipped with such wings are provided. When the aircraft are taking off or landing vertically, the hinged vanes are open in order to allow rotor thrust to go through the wings, thereby permitting main rotors to be located above the wings. When the aircraft reach certain airspeeds, the hinged vanes are closed in order to provide normal lift of a fixed wing. The aircraft thereby take advantages of the helicopter and the traditional airplane with a fixed wing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2006
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Moshe Kretchmer
  • Publication number: 20080230657
    Abstract: A cable clamp for an electrical cable, comprising a first member and a second member that can cooperatively retain a cable between them; wherein the first member has been formed by extrusion in the general axial direction of a cable as it is to be retained in the clamp, at least a portion of the axial cross-section of the first member comprising a receiving part having a curved shape within which a portion of the cables to be located, and a flange extending from either side of the receiving part; and the second member is attachable at either end to a flange of the first member so as to retain the cable within the receiving part of the first member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: ELLIS PATENTS LIMITED
    Inventor: Andrew Booth
  • Publication number: 20080230658
    Abstract: A tether device for securing baby objects includes a stretchable cord, first and second double-buckles, and first and second loopable straps. The stretchable cord has a first end and a second end. Each loopable strap is operably attached to a corresponding double-buckle at a proximal end of the strap. Each loopable strap is configured to releasably secure an object within the strap when the distal end of the strap is threaded through the corresponding double-buckle. The straps include a section of hook fastener material and a section of loop fastener material on one side and gripping material such as neoprene on the other side. Independent buckles can be joined by a fixed loop at the proximal end of the strap, or an integral double-buckle is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Robert Roland Waits, Shelley Chamblin Waits
  • Publication number: 20080230659
    Abstract: A stand quickly and reliably supports an article at a desired location relative to a floor or other support surface for convenient use. The stand includes a base portion that is adapted to engage a support surface. A post portion includes a lower member connected to the base portion, an intermediate member, and a first coupling that prevents axial and rotational movement of the lower member relative to the intermediate member. The post portion also includes an upper member and a second coupling that prevents axial and rotational movement of the intermediate member relative to the upper member. Lastly, the stand includes a platform portion that is adapted to support an article. The lower member, the intermediate member, and the upper member of the post portion are each hollow and provide a passageway that extends from an opening formed through the base portion to an opening formed through the platform portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Gregg L. Kennedy
  • Publication number: 20080230660
    Abstract: An adsorption-detecting device of the present invention comprises a case, wherein a containing part is in one side of the case, and a window is set on one surface of the case; an adsorption means which is in the case; and a detecting means which is in the containing part, wherein the detecting device further comprise a combining base, a pull unit which is a moveable set is located in the combining base, a display unit which is set on the pull unit, and an elastic part having two ends connecting to the combining base and the display unit, and one end of the pull unit extrudes from the combining base, and two identified areas corresponding to the window are set on one surface of the display unit. The adsorption-detecting device of the present invention allows the user to determine the adsorb ability of the adsorption means by utilizing the detecting means 3.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Li-Sheng Chien, Chien-Chang Ho
  • Publication number: 20080230661
    Abstract: A suction cup, includes: a suction cup body made of a synthetic resin material having elasticity; and a gel layer bonded to the suction cup body and having a surface serving as a suction face; the suction cup body being made of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, the gel layer being made of two-pack thermosetting polyurethane gel, the suction cup body and the gel layer being bonded to each other by bonding of an isocyanate group which the thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer has and a hydroxyl group which the two-pack thermosetting polyurethane gel has.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventor: Makoto KAWABATA
  • Publication number: 20080230662
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a suction cup, including: a suction cup body formed from gel and having at least one flat or convex face serving as a suction face; a shape retaining member provided on the suction cup body and having elasticity for restoring, when the suction cup body is deformed, the suction cup body so as to restore an original shape; and a center stem connected to the suction cup body and projecting from a portion of the suction cup body positioned remotely from a location of the suction cup body at which the suction face is provided in a direction intersecting with the center of the suction face.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Shunichi TAKAHASHI, Makoto Kawabata
  • Publication number: 20080230663
    Abstract: A system of increased safety when performing work using a ladder is described. The system includes a ladder bracket for temporarily attachment of a ladder to a structure to stabilize or secure the ladder. The bracket is easy to install and acts to limit or prevent slippage of the ladder laterally or away from the structure and generally promotes a greater margin of safety. In addition, the system includes a bracket for temporarily, yet securely, attaching a safety railing to a ladder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 15, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: John R. Svehlek
  • Publication number: 20080230664
    Abstract: A positioning apparatus for a shift control device for a bicycle transmission comprises a movable member having a positioning element, a positioning member having a positioning element structured to engage the positioning element of the movable member, and a biasing member that biases the positioning member towards an engaged position wherein the positioning element of the positioning member engages the positioning element of the movable member. The positioning member moves toward and away from a plane of movement of the movable member. A releasing member is disposed between the movable member and the positioning member, wherein the releasing member moves between an initial position and an operating position. The releasing member allows the positioning member to be in the engaged position when the releasing member is in the initial position, and the positioning member moves to the disengaged position when the releasing member moves to the operating position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: SHIMANO (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.
    Inventor: Yau Yong Sean
  • Publication number: 20080230665
    Abstract: A mounting bracket for securing a raingutter-mountable roof rack system to the bed or cargo management rail of a pickup truck or SUV. The bracket comprises a simple device with a minimal number of parts required for removably clamping the bracket to the side member of a vehicle bed. The bracket is simple to install, may be located anywhere along the side of the vehicle bed, and does not require the presence of a bed cover system for attachment to the vehicle. The bracket attaches to the side of the vehicle's bed in a manner that does not consume a substantial amount of space within the bed of the vehicle, and it may be used in conjunction with a tonneau cover without interfering with the operation of the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Brian Palermo
  • Publication number: 20080230666
    Abstract: A container, displaying and dispenser shelf for products or objects, which comprises a body formed by 4 elements: two side pieces joined to a base and a front piece, which form an inner space to contain products or objects, said base having a slope suitable for immediate and constant dispensing of said products or objects on user's demand, and without the participation of any external element to the dispensing system< wherein said side pieces are rhomboids with diagonally-oriented longer sides, and opposing equal smaller inner angles from 30° to 70°; and longer sides of said rhomboid having a length from 39 to 49 cm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2008
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: Sociedad Metalurgica Quinones Farfan Ltda.
    Inventor: Alvaro Nelson Quinones Farfan
  • Publication number: 20080230667
    Abstract: A mount for a light tool having a bore is for use at an associated tool station. The ball joint has a ball for engaging a socket joint. The ball joint has a stub extending therefrom and a wedge-lock element having a collar for engaging the stub. A carriage is mounted to the collar. A pair of finger elements are mounted to the carriage for pivotal movement relative to the carriage, toward and away from each other. The wedge lock element includes a wedge movable along the axis between the fingers to urge the fingers outward as the wedge moves toward the carriage. The wedge lock element is positioned with at least a portion of the carriage and the fingers in the tool bore and the wedge is drawn in to secure the ball joint portion in the tool bore. A clamp element is operably connected to the ball joint portion to indirectly secure the ball joint to a fixture. The clamp element includes a front plate, a bracket and a brake element disposed and movable between the front plate and the brake element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Applicant: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS INC.
    Inventor: Lawrence J. Chapman
  • Publication number: 20080230668
    Abstract: An electrical fixture mounting assembly is provided for quickly and easily mounting an electrical fixture to a bracket and brace assembly. The electrical fixture mounting assembly includes an electrical box, a brace assembly for attaching to a support structure and a bracket for attaching the electrical box to the brace. The brace assembly is typically and adjustable member that extends between ceiling joists located above an aperture in a ceiling. The bracket is connected to the brace by a snap fit. The bracket includes retention fingers that are resilient to snap onto the brace and prevent movement of the bracket with respect to the brace during installation of the electrical box. The bracket includes tabs with threaded apertures for receiving mounting screws. The electrical box includes circular apertures and at least one keyhole shaped slot aligned with the threaded apertures in the flanges of the bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventors: Steven J. Johnson, Krzysztof W. Korcz