Patents Issued in April 14, 2009
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Patent number: 7516715Abstract: A bird feeder includes a support and a body including at least one feeding station which is rotatably mounted to the support such that the body can be oriented in a feeding position and a refilling position. The body including a receiving chamber with an opening and a scoop at least partially receiveable in the receiving chamber. To refill the feeder, the scoop is removed from the body to scoop a quantity of feed. The scoop is then inserted, upwardly into the downwardly facing opening in the chamber in the refilling position. The body is then pivoted to the feeding position. Operation of gravity transfers the feed in the scoop to feeding station or stations which are located in the body of the feeder at a position below the open end of the scoop when received in the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventor: Michael K. Conlon
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Patent number: 7516716Abstract: A bird feeder including a container or holder for holding bird feed that has both open top and bottom ends, a plurality of feeding ports, a plurality of perches, a removable base and a manually operated latch member supported by the base. The latch member includes a plurality of latch extensions for engagement with holes in the base and a plurality of fingers for releasable engagement with the port assemblies. The feed port assembly includes a port member, an insert member for engagement with the fastener and a container for securing the port member with the insert member. A mount supports the bird feeder from below.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Droll Yankees, Inc.Inventors: Betsy P. Puckett, Marco Wo, James Vincent Bonnema
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Patent number: 7516717Abstract: A combined leash and jogging belt includes a belt removably positioned about a waist of the caregiver. The belt has an inner surface formed from non-skid synthetic rubber that includes a plurality of pockets attached to an outer surface thereof, and spaced from the inner surface. The pockets have top and bottom sides registered parallel to top and bottom sides of the belt. The pocket top sides are open and extend along an entire longitudinal length of the pockets. A strap that has opposed ends provided with respective D-rings is coupled thereto, and has a fixed length. A pet harness is positioned about the pet, and has front and rear annular portions concentrically seated about an abdominal cavity thereof. The belt has a mechanism for rotatably tethering the strap to the belt and the pet harness, and includes a double-prong buckle attached to the rotatable tethering mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventors: Edwin R. David, Ela David
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Patent number: 7516718Abstract: An ear prop prevents a pet's ears from contacting or substantially contacting food or water in a bowl or dish. The ear prop has members for elevating, supporting or displacing the pet's ears, and the ear prop may comprise a shield. A dish for holding food or water for a pet is constructed to keep the pet's ears from contacting or substantially contacting food or water in the dish. The dish comprises a bowl section and an ear prop section. The bowl section has a floor piece with a boundary continuously connectable to a boundary of a side wherein another boundary of the side defines an opening of the dish. The ear prop section is operably connected to the opening to provide a mechanism for elevating, supporting or displacing the pet's ears.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventor: Richard C Weinblatt
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Patent number: 7516719Abstract: A steam generator comprising a combustion chamber having funnel-shaped side walls in the bottom area thereof and an encircling wall formed from a plurality of steam generator pipes through which a flow medium can flow, wherein there area as little temperature differences as possible in the flow medium at the output of the steam generator pies. The steam generator pipes are, more particularly, arranged in the lower section forming the funnel-shaped side walls such that they are exposed to heat in as homongenous a manner as possible. According to the invention, the diameter of a number of steam generator pipes in the region of the funnel shaped side walls is different from that in the region of the encircling wall.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2004Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Rudolf Kral, Andre Schrief, Frank Thomas
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Patent number: 7516720Abstract: A method of controlling a gas-fired water heater. A resistance input is received from a sensor configured to sense flammable vapor near the heater tank. The resistance input is compared to one or more previously received inputs from the sensor. Based on the comparing, one or more functions of the heater are controlled. This control method can be used to compensate for gradual ageing of the sensor.Type: GrantFiled: February 21, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Emerson Electric Co.Inventors: Donald E. Donnelly, Thomas P. Buescher, Michael Somorov
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Patent number: 7516721Abstract: A dam assembly to protect a component mounted on a water heater tank wall while insulating foam is injected between the tank and a jacket surrounding the tank, the dam assembly comprising an outer portion, an inner portion, and a frangible web connecting the inner and outer portions, the web having a strength sufficient to withstand force applied to the inner portion to press the dam assembly into an aperture in the jacket such that the outer portion surrounds the component between the tank and the jacket, and the web breaking under the application of a pre-determined force on the inner portion, allowing the inner portion to be at least partially pushed inside the outer portion to enclose the component within the dam assembly.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: AOS Holding CompanyInventor: Rodney Ray Syler
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Patent number: 7516723Abstract: A Dual Piston Cycle Engine utilizes a unique dual piston apparatus that includes: a first cylinder housing a first piston therein; a second cylinder thermally isolated from the first cylinder and housing a second piston therein; an intake valve coupled to the first cylinder for allowing a fuel mixture to enter into the first cylinder; an exhaust valve coupled to the second cylinder for allowing an exhaust gas to exit the second cylinder; and an interstage valve that couples an internal chamber of the first cylinder to an internal chamber of the second cylinder and configured to minimize dead space between the first and second cylinders, wherein the first piston performs only intake and compression strokes and the second piston performs only combustion and exhaust strokes and the first and second cylinders are thermally isolated from one another.Type: GrantFiled: February 29, 2008Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Tour Engine, Inc.Inventor: Benjamin H. Tour
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Patent number: 7516724Abstract: A transmissible connecting mechanism drives a lead air control valve and an air-fuel mixture throttle valve of a carburetor of a stratified scavenging two-cycle engine in an interlocking manner. A cam plate having a cam groove is attached to an end portion of a valve shaft of the lead air control valve, and a lever is attached to a valve shaft of an air-fuel mixture throttle valve arranged within a carburetor main body. A contact element engaging with the cam groove of the cam plate is arranged in the lever. The lead air control valve and the throttle valve are urged in a valve closing direction by springs. A cam mechanism serving as the transmissible connecting mechanism is structured by the cam plate and the lever.Type: GrantFiled: November 12, 2004Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Husqvarna Zenoah Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takamasa Ohtsuji
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Patent number: 7516725Abstract: A two-stroke cycle engine using a preceding air-layer for scavenging and having a scavenger passage connected to a branching scavenger passage opened to a scavenging port and a connecting passage linking the air and fuel passages so that negative pressure in the air passage forces the fuel-air mixture in the fuel passage into the air passage. The engine also has a removable guide with a surface forming a curved smooth channel which is attachable to the scavenger passage in the crankcase from the mounting surface, and forms a portion of the scavenger passage with the curved channel. The blow-up angle of the scavenger passage varies along the circumference of the cylinder, and the crankcase is configured such that the front and rear portions are separated by a block, and a scavenger passage is provided inside both said front and rear portions of the crankcase and cylinder.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kazuyuki Uenoyama, Yoshio Kobayashi, Kazunori Kudo
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Patent number: 7516726Abstract: A battery device of the invention has a high-voltage battery unit, which includes three battery modules C1 through C3, three voltage equalization circuits B1 through B3, and six switches SW1 through SW6. Each of the three battery modules C1 through C3 includes plural lithium secondary cells arranged in series. Each of the voltage equalization circuits B1 through B3 works to equalize the voltages of the respective cells included in a corresponding one of the battery modules C1 through C3. The six switches SW1 through SW6 are individually switched on and off to switch over the connection state of the battery modules C1 through C3 between serial connection and parallel connection. In the battery device of the invention, the voltage equalization process activates the voltage equalization circuits B1 through B3 to respectively equalize the voltages of the plural cells included in each of the three battery modules C1 through C3 in the state of serial connection of the battery modules C1 through C3.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Toshinori Esaka, Nobuyuki Okabe, Osamu Komeda
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Patent number: 7516727Abstract: A vehicle combustion engine includes an engine cylinder block having an exhaust port defined in a front surface area thereof and fluidly connected with an exhaust tube. A transmission is arranged rearwardly of a crankcase. The vehicle combustion engine also includes at least one of an oil filter for filtering oil and an oil cooler for cooling the oil, which is positioned outside the cylinder block and the crankcase, but close to a lower portion of the cylinder block at a location rearwardly of the cylinder block.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Atsushi Ueshima, Takahiro Ono
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Patent number: 7516728Abstract: A windage tray apparatus is provided and is configured to be mountable within a crankcase at least partially defined by an engine block of an internal combustion engine. The crankcase has a first bay and a non-adjacent second bay. The internal combustion engine has a crankshaft rotatably supported within the crankcase. The windage tray includes a tray member and a passage at least partially defined by said tray member and in communication with the first bay and the non-adjacent second bay. The passage is operable to allow gas transfer between the first bay and the non-adjacent second bay to reduce the motoring friction of the internal combustion engine. An internal combustion engine incorporating the disclosed windage tray apparatus is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: David R. Staley, Alan W. Hayman, Jeremy T. Demarest, James J. Mazzola, III, Frederick J. Rozario
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Patent number: 7516729Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing lubricant to an engine which may be operated in either a normal position or an extreme angled position. Through gravity, the lubricant pools in a first location when the engine is in a normal position and pools in a second location when the engine is in an extreme position. A main pump provides fluid from a first location through a control valve to the engine when the engine is in a normal position. When the engine is in an extreme position, an auxiliary pump provides lubricant from the second location through the control valve to the engine. So long as the main pump has adequate lubricant pressure, lubricant is provided from the main pump to the engine.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: J.C. Bamford Excavation LimitedInventor: Denis William Bedford
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Patent number: 7516730Abstract: In a fuel pump control system for an internal combustion engine whose operation is switched between cut-off-cylinder operating mode during which some of the cylinders are non-operative and full-cylinder operating mode during which all of the cylinders are operative and having a fuel injector connected to the fuel supply line and supplied with fuel pressurized by the fuel pump, it is discriminated whether the operation of the engine is in the full-cylinder operating mode or in the cut-off-cylinder operating mode, the operation of the fuel pump is controlled based on the discriminated operating mode of the engine, i.e., is controlled such that the delivery flow rate of the fuel pump when the engine is discriminated to be in the cut-off-cylinder operating mode, is reduced relative to that when the engine is discriminated to be in the full-cylinder operating mode, thereby reducing the power consumption and operating noise of the fuel pump.Type: GrantFiled: March 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Asao Ukai, Toshitaka Hachiro, Tomohiro Nishi, Takahiro Yonekura
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Patent number: 7516731Abstract: A control apparatus of an engine having a compression ignition combustion mode and a spark ignition combustion mode selects the spark ignition combustion mode when operation conditions fall within a spark ignition operation area set in a spark ignition operation area/compression ignition operation area setting map memory part and selects the compression ignition combustion mode when the operation conditions fall within a switching stable area set in the memory part upon operation by the spark ignition combustion mode. The control apparatus controls to continue the compression ignition combustion mode as long as the operation conditions fall within a compression ignition operation area set in the memory part upon operation by the compression ignition combustion mode.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Shiro Yamaoka, Hiromu Kakuya, Kunihiko Suzuki, Shinya Satou, Atsushi Shimada
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Patent number: 7516732Abstract: A method detects the beginning of combustion in an internal combustion engine (1) having several cylinders (2, 3, 4, 5), form a rotation speed signal determined for a shaft (6) of the engine (1). A segment signal (SS), whose signal length corresponds to an integral multiple of one or more full rotation of the shaft (6), is extracted from the rotation speed signal. A cylinder signal (ZS1, ZS2, ZS3, ZS4), which reproduces the operational state in a cylinder (2, 3, 4, 5), is generated from the segment signal (SS). The cylinder signal is transformed into a cylinder frequency signal (FS1, FS2, FS3, FS4) in an angular frequency range. Signal information indicating the beginning of combustion in the associated cylinder is extracted from the cylinder frequency signal at least one predefined angular frequency.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Conti Temic microelectronic GmbHInventors: Reinhold Hagel, Mehmet Tuna, Ernst Meyer
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Patent number: 7516733Abstract: A system and method to reduce the instantaneous power consumption during heating of a fuel injector is described. The system is capable of heating the fuel injectors of an engine at different times.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Craig Stephan, Richard Wineland, Larry Elie, Clay Maranville, Allan Gale
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Patent number: 7516734Abstract: A bush incorporated in a common rail is formed with a smallest diameter orifice having a small inner diameter and an adjacent orifice having an inner diameter larger than that of the smallest diameter orifice on an inner peripheral face of the bush. A press-fitted portion, which is press-fitted into an inside-outside communication hole, and a non-press-fitted portion, which has a smaller outer diameter than the press-fitted portion, are formed on an outer peripheral face of the bush. The smallest diameter orifice and the press-fitted portion are deviated from each other in an axial direction of the bush to prevent an overlap in a radial direction of the bush. Thus, even if the bush is tightly press-fitted into the inside-outside communication hole, decrease of the inner diameter of the smallest diameter orifice can be averted.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Takashi Tominaga, Tadashi Nishiwaki
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Patent number: 7516735Abstract: A fuel delivery system comprises a fuel rail having an inlet, an outlet and a receptor associated with the outlet. The system further comprises a fuel injector. The inlet of the injector is configured for communication with the outlet of the fuel rail, and the injector outlet is configured for communication with a combustion chamber of an engine. The system still further includes a first feature associated with on one of the fuel rail and the injector, and a second feature associated with the other of the fuel rail and injector. The first and second features cooperate to form a seal between the injector and the fuel rail, and to maintain the axial alignment of the components.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2008Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Millennium IndustriesInventors: Robert Doherty, Daniel Scott Edelman
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Patent number: 7516736Abstract: A fuel distributor (10) and mounting arrangement that helps support the weight of the fuel distributor (10) during removal and replacement for improved maintainability. The mounting arrangement includes a hanger (60) mountable on a first support which hanger (60) includes a slot (70), and a manifold (40) separate from the hanger (60) that has a first side (43) with a plurality of ports (54) arranged in a first configuration. The manifold (40) is connectable to a plurality of fluid lines on an engine (80). A fuel distributor body (12) has a first surface, a second surface spaced from the first surface and a third surface between the first surface and the second surface with a hanging cleat (36) projecting from the first surface that is configured to be received within the slot (70). The third surface has a main fuel inlet (16) and a plurality of additional fluid ports (18) arranged in the same configuration as the ports on the manifold (40). A mounting pin (26) projects from the third surface.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Steven A. Lewis, James F. Toth, Gary A. Valencourt
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Patent number: 7516737Abstract: In an internal combustion engine with a cooling system and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system including an EGR heat exchanger with a coolant inlet opening connected to a coolant outlet opening of the engine for receiving coolant therefrom and the engine including a coolant collecting rail mounted directly to the engine and having a coolant inlet opening connected to the EGR heat exchanger and at least one other coolant inlet opening in communication directly with at least one other coolant outlet opening of the engine.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2008Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Daimler AGInventors: Victor Cerabone, Harald Gieb, Michael Hoffmann, Walter Kerschbaum, Eberhard Schneider, Gotz von Esebeck
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Patent number: 7516738Abstract: An indicating device includes an indicator housing member having a first circumferential wall defining an interior surface and a substantially circumferential cavity having a longitudinal axis. An engagement member is formed on the interior surface and a viewing window is formed through the first wall. An indicator member has a second circumferential wall with an exterior surface having dosage indicia and a bottom rim. The indicator member is rotatably mounted within the indicator housing member about the longitudinal axis and interiorly of the substantially circumferential cavity with at least a portion of the dosage indicia being progressively visible through the viewing window as the indicator member is rotated about the longitudinal axis relative to the indicator housing. The bottom rim of the indicator member is supported by the engagement member.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Trudell Medical InternationalInventors: Peter Mycola Scarrott, Jerry R. Grychowski, James Nick Schmidt, Martin P. Foley
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Patent number: 7516739Abstract: A container for enclosing at least one pressure vessel includes interface devices accessible on an exterior of the outer surface of the container. The container can also include various features for enhanced efficiency and convenience in stock piling of such containers.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventors: Lee Smith, Robert A. Zarate
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Patent number: 7516740Abstract: The invention concerns an apparatus for supplying a respiratory gas and a method of controlling the apparatus. In accordance with the invention there is provided an apparatus for supplying a respiratory gas comprising a conveyor device for conveying the respiratory gas, a conduit means for feeding the respiratory gas conveyed by the conveyor device to a person, and a humidification device for humidifying the respiratory gas, which is distinguished by a sensor device for generating a signal indicative in respect of the respiratory gas humidity and a control device for controlling the humidification device having regard to the signal which is generated by the sensor device and which is indicative in respect of the respiratory gas humidity.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2002Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: MAP Medizin-Technologie GmbHInventor: Jörg Meier
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Patent number: 7516741Abstract: An aerosolization apparatus comprises a housing defining a chamber having an air inlet and an air outlet, wherein the chamber is sized to receive a capsule containing a pharmaceutical formulation. A puncturing member is moveable within the chamber to contact the capsule and to provide an opening in the capsule, and a feedback mechanism provides an indication, such as a tactile indication, to a user when the puncturing member has been moved to a position where it provides the opening into the capsule. When air flows through the inlet, the pharmaceutical formulation is aerosolized and the aerosolized pharmaceutical formulation is delivered through the outlet.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventors: Mark J. Glusker, Jeff R. Wood, John D. Burr
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Patent number: 7516742Abstract: A device and method is disclosed for delivering NO to a patient. The device utilizes a single controller that controls two separate flow controllers to deliver an oxygen-containing gas and a NO-containing gas to the patient to provide NO-containing gas at a flow profile that is proportional or quasi-proportional to a flow profile of the oxygen-containing gas throughout patient inspiration. The controller further comprises logic for setting a nitric oxide delivery profile comprising at least two different concentrations of nitric oxide containing gas and for automatically switching between the at least two different concentrations of nitric oxide containing gas on a timed basis.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignees: Cardinal Health 207, Inc., Pulmonox Technologies CorporationInventors: Alex Stenzler, Christopher C. Miller, Bevin McMullin
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Patent number: 7516743Abstract: A portable continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device is adapted for delivering gas under pressure to a patient. The CPAP device comprises a portable housing assembly, a motor blower unit disposable within the portable housing assembly, a user interface configured to be engaged to the patient, and a patient hose extending between the user interface and the motor blower unit. The portable housing assembly may be comprised or configured as a wearable frontpack assembly which is configured to be worn against the patient's chest. The frontpack assembly may include a pair of shoulder straps configured to extend over the patient's shoulders and under the patient's arms to secure the CPAP device to the patient. The motor blower unit may be remotely disposed from the portable housing assembly such as on a bedside assembly or on a tabletop stand.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Viasys Sleep Systems, LLCInventor: Leslie Hoffman
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Patent number: 7516745Abstract: By providing a hair curler/roller which comprises a unique, distinctive construction that enables the hair roller/curler to be heated substantially more rapidly than prior art constructions, an easily used, hair curler/roller and heating system is obtained which is capable of providing rapid heating of the hair curler/roller. In addition, the heating system employed for transferring heat to the hair curler/roller is also constructed in a unique manner that optimizes heat transfer, while also being constructed efficiently and inexpensively. In accordance with the present invention, the hair curler/roller incorporates an elongated cylindrically shaped body or core formed from heat retaining metal, such as aluminum. In addition, the cylindrical body incorporates a plurality of thin, interconnected wall members peripherally surrounded by a cylindrical outer wall.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2004Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Rovcal, Inc.Inventors: Mario Maione, John Wilcox
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Patent number: 7516746Abstract: A status indicator for a dishwasher that has a front-loading door and an upper basket having a wire frame within the dishwasher is made up of a body and a hook, where the hook is rotatingly affixed to the wire frame of the upper basket in one of two positions, the first position with the body rotated onto the outside of the upper basket so that the door is kept in an open state, and a second position, in which the body is rotated to the inside of the upper basket, so that the door is left in a closed state, and wherein the body of the indicator may be vertically rotated to display one of two rubrics, one indicating clean dishes, and the other dirty dishes.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventor: Susan Davis
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Patent number: 7516747Abstract: A system and method for the collection of waste water generated in the course of maintenance or washing of a large object in an open-air, outdoor environment. The system, in its simplest form, includes a wash deck having a drain located within a valley of the deck, an interceptor drain for separation of particulates and sludge from the wash fluid, an actuator, that is responsive to changes in hydraulic pressure of wash water supply, for opening and closing a waste stream control valve and a waste steam control valve intermediate between the interceptor drain and a sanitary sewer connection. The system of this invention operates independent of elaborate controls and any external power source. Thus, it can be used in relatively remote locations and/or installed in areas where electricity is unavailable, or the presence of electrical current would be incompatible with safety of livestock or thoroughbred race horse.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventor: Joseph W. Roles, Jr.
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Patent number: 7516748Abstract: A method for performing electrochemical processes using an array of dedicated cells is disclosed. Various construction details and steps of the method are developed which promote, in one embodiment, automating the method of performing the processes and cleaning the articles between electrochemical processes. In one embodiment, the array of dedicated cells includes rinsing cells which have a rinse chamber adapted to receive an article and flow rinse fluid such that the fluid impinges against the article at predetermined locations.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2003Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Robert B. Parrish, Christopher T. Shallow
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Patent number: 7516749Abstract: Methods of and apparatus for washing an array of sites in high-density microplates or similar assay plates wherein the microplates or assay plates are washed in an inverted or nearly inverted position, rather than in an upright position. Preferably, the wash liquid is dispensed upwardly in the form of a sheet from a nozzle mounted on a spray bar as the spray bar moves relative to the microplate or assay plate. After washing, the microplate or assay plate is dried with a stream of gas such as air, also preferably blown upwardly in the form of a sheet.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2003Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Neogen, LLCInventors: Stephen Felder, Richard Kris, Brian McGraw
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Patent number: 7516750Abstract: Collapsible structures are provided having at least two panels, with each of the panels having a flexible loop member defining a closed loop and adapted to assume an expanded position and a collapsed position, and a fabric for partially covering the loop member. The loop members of two adjacent first and second panels overlap each other at a first overlapping point along first edges of the loop members, and at a second overlapping point along second edges of the loop members, with the overlapping loop members defining a hinge portion about which the two loop members of the first and second panels are pivotable.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Patent Category Corp.Inventor: Yu Zheng
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Patent number: 7516751Abstract: The present invention provides a fluid flow prevention apparatus for a wet barrel fire hydrant which is simple and inexpensive to install and effectively cuts off water flow while reducing water hammer. The fluid flow apparatus includes an in-line or non-hinged valve member for closing a flow passageway connected to the hydrant that is operably movable from an open to closed position upon damage to the hydrant. An adjustable damping member controls the rate of closing of the valve member to reduce the effects of water hammer.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: James Jones CompanyInventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., John C. McCreary
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Patent number: 7516752Abstract: A hydrogen-based propulsion system is provided for storing hydrogen feed gas which evaporates over time from a storage vessel containing liquid hydrogen as a fuel. In particular, this system enables the evaporated hydrogen feed gas to be stored for later use in the propulsion unit and also provides a system for enabling the stored hydrogen gas to be cooled by evaporated hydrogen feed gas in transit to the propulsion unit.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Gerd Arnold, Ulrich Eberle
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Patent number: 7516753Abstract: A plumbing fixture assembly for a toilet tank comprising an upper portion that connects with a valve, a lower portion adapted for engagement with the upper portion, and an attachment pipe that that connects at a first end with lower portion and at a distal end with a supply line.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventor: Robert P. Morrison
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Patent number: 7516754Abstract: A flush valve diaphragm that includes a body portion and a peripheral sealing portion. The body portion is flexible and has a central passageway. The peripheral portion includes an integral filter, an exit chamber, and a bypass arrangement, such that water flowing through the filter flows through the bypass arrangement. The integral filter prevents clogging of the bypass arrangement. The diaphragm is used in a flush valve diaphragm assembly and a flush valve.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Zurn Industries, LLCInventor: William A. Verdecchia
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Patent number: 7516755Abstract: The invention relates to a system for producing and distributing compressed air that comprises at least one compressor (1) having connected thereto a suction pipe (2) for the intake of air and an output pipe (3) for air compressed by said at least one compressor, and distribution piping (4) connected to the output pipe (3) for distributing air to sites of use (5, 6). According to the invention, the system further comprises a return pipe (7) arranged between the suction pipe (2) and at least one site of use (5) for receiving air reduced in pressure in it and feeding it back to said at least one compressor (1).Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Op Systems OyInventor: Raimo Parkkinen
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Patent number: 7516756Abstract: Proportional pressure control valve with a magnetic part and a valve part, the valve part has an inflow opening for the inflow stream, a first outflow opening for the filling stream, and a second outflow opening for the tank volume stream, and has a ball seat, a flat seat with an opening, a closing part for controlling the throughput quantity through the opening of the flat seat, and a stream diverter. The inflow opening faces away from the magnetic part and coaxially to its longitudinal axis, and the outflow openings are constructed on the side wall of the valve part radially to its longitudinal axis, so that fluid flowing from through the valve is exposed to a diversion of a maximum of 90°. The fluid, after flowing through the ball seat and to and through the stream diverter, experiences a diversion of less than 30°.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 2004Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Karlheinz Mayr, Thilo Schmidt, Walter Kill, Markus Moosmann
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Patent number: 7516757Abstract: A fluid controller (15a) in a multiple-input hydrostatic power steering system includes a check valve assembly (101), having a first fluid passage (111), defining a check valve seat (105) and a check valve (103) operably associated therewith, in fluid communication with a second fluid passage (109), with the second fluid passage (109) being in fluid communication with a return port (25a). In the left (L) and right (R) operating positions, return flow can flow from the interior region (114) of the valve (27), through the first fluid passage (111), past the check valve (103), and through the second fluid passage (109) to the return port (25a). In the neutral position (N), pressurized fluid can flow from an inlet port (19a) to the return port (25a), with the check valve (103) preventing fluid from flowing through the first fluid passage (111) and into the interior region (114) of the valve (27).Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventor: Wade L. Gehlhoff
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Patent number: 7516758Abstract: A manually actuated cartridge valve assembly (15) has a main body (31), a valve assembly (33), and an end assembly (35). Disposed within an internal cavity (107) of the end assembly (35) is a rotary member (109) that rotates about an axis (115) when a handle (29) is manually actuated. The axis (115) is substantially perpendicular to the axis (73) of the spool valve (49). The rotary member (109) has at least one axial end (117) that extends through the outer surface of the end assembly (35) and attaches to the handle (29). The movement of the handle (29) defines a plane of movement (147), which is selectively rotatable about the axis (73) to a desired orientation (149). A locking member (99) is selectively operably associated with the end assembly (35) to restrict rotation of the plane of movement (147).Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Tam C. Huynh, Nathan H. French
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Patent number: 7516759Abstract: A microstructure includes a catalyst region, and a non-catalyst region proximate to the catalyst region. The catalyst region induces a chemical reaction of a fluid component when the microstructure is located within a fluid medium containing the fluid component. The chemical reaction induces relative motion between the fluid medium and the microstructure, which can be used to provide, for example, autonomous directional movement, rotation of microgears, microfluidic devices, and novel sensor configurations. In one example, a palladium catalyst is used, and the fluid medium is an aqueous solution of hydrogen peroxide.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: The Penn State Research FoundationInventors: Walter Paxton, Ayusman Sen, Thomas E. Mallouk, Jeffrey M. Catchmark
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Patent number: 7516760Abstract: A piston-type accumulator includes a separating piston (24) axially displaced inside an accumulator housing (10) and separating two spaces from one another inside the accumulator housing (10), particularly a gas side (22) from a liquid side (20) of the accumulator. Due to the fact that the separating piston (24) is predominantly or completely made of a plastic material, it can be provided with a very light weight reducing the overall installation weight of the piston-type accumulator.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2004Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Hydac Technology GmbHInventor: Norbert Weber
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Patent number: 7516761Abstract: The invention relates to a mass tube (1) for an air measuring sensor (3) comprising a metal grid (4) acting as a flow rectifier arranged perpendicular to the air flow (2). At least two fixing elements (5) are arranged on the measuring tube (1), said elements extending inwards in a radial manner, whereon the metal grid (4) is fixed by pre-tensioning.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2003Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Stephen Setescak
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Patent number: 7516762Abstract: A flexible corrugated pipe, of a type comprising a plurality of overlapping material layers, comprises at least a coiled wire, and at least an electric cable, the coils or turns of said at least a wire and said at least an electric cable being arranged on a same plane, inside the wall of the pipe owing to the provision of the built-in electric cable, embedded in the thickness of the corrugated pipe, at a same position or level as the reinforcement metal coils, the outer corrugating configuration of the body of the tube is improved, thereby consequently improving the flexibility of the corrugated pipe.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: IVG Colbachini, S.p.A.Inventor: Guiseppe Aldinio Colbachini
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Patent number: 7516763Abstract: A multi-station dispensing apparatus which affords an automatic flow rate for the product to be dispensed. It also provides a single control knob which can select from several different chemical concentrates to be diluted and dispensed. In addition, a bottle can be filled by single-handed operation as well as a bucket without the need to reset the control knob.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: JohnsonDiversey, Inc.Inventors: Michael H. Bertucci, Curtis H. Hubmann, Christopher F. Lang, Steven E. Schiller
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Patent number: 7516764Abstract: A color changing system for a vehicle that allows an individual to change the visible color of a vehicle by using a plurality of paints inserted in between a pair of transparent layers that are attached to multiple portions of the vehicles. The paints are located within a reservoir unit that has a number of holding tanks, with the holding tanks including holding tanks for the primary colors red, blue, and yellow. In addition, a mixing tank unit includes a series of mixing tanks in which paints are transferred to after leaving the holding tanks but before entering a gap area located in between the pair of transparent layers. The mixing areas hold either primary colors, unmixed, or the primary colors after they have been mixed. A series of mixing tank pumps then pump the resulting mixtures into the gap area in between the pair of transparent layers.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2007Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Inventor: Kendel P. Cobb
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Patent number: 7516765Abstract: Apparatus (1) for the introduction of air into enteral containers (2). A valve (14) is provided in a connection member (4) connecting the enteral set with the container (2) containing the enteral liquid and controls the introduction of air corresponding to the consumption of the enteral liquid. The valve (14) may include an oleophobic filter material that covers the air inlet (16) projecting into the connection member (4). The valve (14) on the side facing the container (2) is provided with a cutting device (20) for the foil closure of aluminum or plastics closing the container (2) in its initial delivered state. The cutting device (20) may be a circular or partly circular projection (28) rising from a low side (30) to a high side (32).Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2005Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Filtertek Inc.Inventors: Brendan Hogan, Rolf Rainer Scheu
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Patent number: 7516766Abstract: Disclosed is an intra-wheel rear suspension system moveably supporting a rotating wheel relative to a frame via a concentric hub structure, the system exhibiting minimal side play or torsional play due to its unique bearing structure. The system includes an inner carrier assembly having an inner slide block with front curved bearing surface and a rear curved bearing surface. A non-rotating axle extends to either side of the inner slide block and is secured to the frame. An outer track frame that is adapted for rotatably supporting the wheel via any suitable concentric hub structure, has a curved aperture with front and rear curved bearing surfaces that engage the front and rear curved bearing surfaces of the inner slide block. The outer track frame moves arcuately up and down relative to the inner slide block in response to a shock absorbing displacement.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2006Date of Patent: April 14, 2009Assignee: Dew Mfg., Inc.Inventor: Werner G. Hopf