Patents Issued in March 4, 2010
  • Publication number: 20100050358
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an interdental brush, the interdental brush of the present invention comprises a handle including a gripping portion, a brush coupling portion provided at a front end of the gripping portion and a bending portion provided on the gripping portion for allowing the brush coupling portion to be bent with respect to the gripping portion in the first direction and for restraining a bending of the brush coupling portion in the second direction which is opposite to the first direction; and a brush portion coupled to the brush coupling portion of the handle. Due to the above structure, the interdental brush of the present invention can clean conveniently and easily an interdental space between molar teeth as well as an interdental space between front teeth. In particular, the brush portion of the interdental brush can be inserted simply and accurately into an interdental space between molar teeth placed in a narrow space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Hyae Gyung Kim
  • Publication number: 20100050359
    Abstract: A pocket pendent from a rectangular fabric such as a towel provides means for storage of small objects, such as soap. The rectangle with the pendent pocket may also have side closure means on the rectangle so placed that a carrier can be formed from said rectangle and the pocket is positioned inside the carrier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 20, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Charles Brown
  • Publication number: 20100050360
    Abstract: A wiper securing seat is disclosed. The securing seat comprises a left and right housing and a cap body. The front edge of the left and right housing is tapered, and adjacent to the front end, a stepped section is provided, and the stepped section is provided with a vertical plate body having an engagement hook. The rear section of the stepped section is a mounting slot, and the inner wall of the lateral side at the front and rear section of the left and right housing are provided with a perpendicular arranged front and rear engaging hook. Adjacent to the front engaging hook, a corresponding mounting sleeve and securing post is formed, and the cap body is provided with an opening corresponding to the plate body. After the left and right housing are mounted to the elastic plate of the soft wiper, the engaging hook and the securing post form into an engagement allowing the fastening shaft to be engaged at the mounting slot, and the cap is then mounted thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: MIN-HENG CHIANG
  • Publication number: 20100050361
    Abstract: A windshield wiper connecting device for connecting a windshield wiper to a wiper driving arm includes: a first connecting element having a bottom plate, a plurality of first buckling pieces and two abutting portions, the first buckling pieces being bent and fixedly buckled to the windshield wiper; a second connecting element having a semi-cylindrical shaft base, two locking portions, four wings and four hooks, the hooks being locked and connected to the side walls of the abutting portions; and a mask covering the outside of the first connecting element and the second connecting element, the mask being connected to the wiper driving arm, wherein the shaft base of the second connecting element is provided on the bottom plate of the first connecting element, the shaft base of the second connecting element and the wings of the second connecting elements abut the abutting portions of the first connecting element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Chuan-Chih Chang, Chih-Ming Yang
  • Publication number: 20100050362
    Abstract: A windscreen wiper device comprising an elastic, elongated carrier element, as well as an elongated wiper blade of a flexible material, which can be placed in abutment with a windscreen to be wiped, which wiper blade includes at least one groove, in which groove a longitudinal strip of the carrier element is disposed, with the special feature that ends of the wiper blade are connected to a respective connecting piece, which windscreen wiper device comprises a connecting device for an oscillating wiper arm, wherein at least one connecting piece comprises engaging members sidewardly engaging the wiper blade from the outside, wherein the engaging members comprise retaining features for retaining the the wiper blade onto the connecting piece.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Xavier Boland
  • Publication number: 20100050363
    Abstract: A combination of a mop bucket and a wringer unit (10) is disclosed in which the bucket (12) has a bottom surface (16), and a peripheral wall (18) which upstands from the bottom surface (16), the wringer unit (14) being supportable on an upper edge (30) of the peripheral wall (18) of the mop bucket (12), and being releasably engagable from the bucket, there being releasable engaging means including a pivotable clip (74) on each of two opposing sides of the combination mop bucket and wringer unit (10) and an engagable element (76) with which a respective pivotable clip (74) can be snap-fit releasably engaged, each pivotable clip (74) being formed independently of the mop bucket (12) and the mechanical press wringer (14) and being pivotably engaged with one of the mop bucket (12) and the mechanical press wringer (14), and the engagable element (76) being provided on the other one of the mop bucket (12) and the mechanical press wringer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2007
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Ronald Alexander Young
  • Publication number: 20100050364
    Abstract: A washing device capable of stably washing a substrate is disclosed. The washing device includes a substrate entry guiding unit which guides a substrate supplied from the outside to be entered in a correct direction, a dirt removing unit supplied with the substrate from the substrate entry guiding unit to remove dirt formed on the substrate, a dirt washing unit supplied with the substrate from the dirt removing unit to wash off residual dirt remaining on the substrate, and a position controlling unit controlling position of the substrate being discharged from the dirt washing unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Tae Young Oh, Hui Jae Lee, Geon Yong Kim, Eun Ha Lee
  • Publication number: 20100050365
    Abstract: A substrate fixture pallet includes a body part configured to receive a substrate to be processed and a lid part attached movably to the body part so as to fix the substrate when closed relative to the body part. The lid part is configured to form a gap between the body part and the lid part when closed relative to the body part so as to allow the suction air of a dust collector for suctioning cutting powder to be generated at a time of processing the substrate to flow through the gap when the substrate fixture pallet is attached to the dust collector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventors: Tadashi Inoue, Gen Minemura
  • Publication number: 20100050366
    Abstract: A robotic cleaning head (1; 101) for use as part of an autonomous vacuum cleaning system (2) including a canister unit (3) and a hose assembly (4; 104) connecting the cleaning head (1; 101) to the canister unit (3). The cleaning head (3) has a chassis (5; 105), a drive system (6; 18; 27), a vacuum cleaning nozzle (8; 108) and a conduit (9; 109). The conduit (9; 109) communicates with an air passage bound by the cleaning nozzle (8; 108). It is suspended pivotable about a pivot axis (10; 110) and includes an inlet (11; 111) provided on top of said chassis (5; 105), and an elbow section (12; 112) downstream of the inlet (11; 111), and the conduit (9; 109) is suspended and shaped such that a line of action (15; 115) of a tension force (20; 120) exerted by the hose assembly (4; 104) onto the chassis (5; 105), via the conduit (9; 109) to which the hose assembly (4; 104) is connected, extends spaced below a downstream end of the elbow section (12; 112).
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Alexander Poul Splinter
  • Publication number: 20100050367
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a steam cleaner that is light-weight and is prepared for operation quickly and easily and comprises handle assembly, a pivoting connector, a reservoir, a reservoir socket, a steam head and an electric wire. The handle assembly comprises a grip and a lever. The pivoting connector is attached to the steam head. The reservoir is mounted detachably in the pivoting connector and is easily removed to fill the reservoir with tap water. Squeezing the handle assembly releases water from the reservoir into the steam head where steam is generated to clean a floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Sam TSAI
  • Publication number: 20100050368
    Abstract: The invention relates to a vacuum suction and cleaning apparatus comprising a nozzle (38), ventilation means (40), a clean water tank (20), an air-water separator (50), a recovery tank (4) for soiled liquid and/or dirt, a handle (5) for manipulation with one hand, a heating means (19) using a ceramic for electrical and thermal insulation. It is wherein the separator (50) comprises a brush (2) driven in rotation, that prolongs the ventilation means (40), rotating with a turbine (11) or nozzle (51) serving as support, and that the apparatus (100) comprises an air evacuation hose (6) incorporated in the handle (5) prolonging a by-pass, and that the recovery tank (4) is located under the separator (50).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: WINDDROP
    Inventor: Gerard Curien
  • Publication number: 20100050369
    Abstract: A cleaning device is provided. The cleaning device may include a handle, an activation mechanism moveable between a first position and a second position by a user of the device, a hollow member having a suction opening at an end of the hollow member, an electrically powered motor configured to produce suction at the suction opening, and a bristle support member pivotable relative to the hollow member. The bristle support member may include a plurality of bristles attached thereto. The bristle support member may be operatively coupled to the activation mechanism. When the activation mechanism is in the first position, the bristle support member may be in a closed position adjacent to the suction opening of the hollow member and the plurality of bristles may be positioned to perform a sweeping function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: EURO-PRO OPERATING, LLC
    Inventors: Max Rosenzweig, Ognjen Vrdoljak
  • Publication number: 20100050370
    Abstract: A bag holder is positioned on a container and defines an opening allowing access to the interior of the container. A portion of the bag holder surrounds the opening and defines a first section and a second section where the first section is arranged to support a first can liner in the container interior and the second section is arranged to hold a second can liner in the container interior. The first and second sections may also cooperate to also hold a single can liner in the container interior. A cinch may be provided for holding the first can liner and the second can liner on the first section and the second section under tension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: RUBBERMAID COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Andrew Roby, Alfred Reneau Van Landingham, JR.
  • Publication number: 20100050371
    Abstract: A multi-purpose ground sweeping machine includes a housing unit for receiving an impeller and defining an air blowing route and a guiding path between the air blowing route and an outlet. The housing unit has a first intake port disposed forwardly and forming a first flow duct, a second intake port disposed upwardly and rearwardly and forming a second flow duct, and an air-flow passage in communication with the first and second flow ducts. A first valve unit is operated to only permit suction air to be introduced from the first or second intake ports for drawing leaves on the ground surface into the housing unit. A second valve unit is operated to only permit blowing air to eject from an air-flow conduit disposed forwardly of the housing unit or the outlet for blowing away leaves on the ground surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: MACAUTO INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Paul Lin
  • Publication number: 20100050372
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner including a nozzle, an air conduit including a projecting tube, a suction source positioned to provide a flow of dirty air, a bag docking assembly, and a filter bag coupled to the bag carrier. The bag docking assembly includes a main body mounted to the air conduit. A bag carrier is configured to engage the main body and configured to move between a first position and a second position. A lever is coupled to the main body and the bag carrier and the lever is configured to move the bag carrier between the first position and the second position. The bag docking assembly is configured such that when the bag carrier is in the first position, the filter bag is not engaged with the projecting tube and when the bag carrier is in the second position, the filter bag is engaged with the projecting tube.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Steven Frackowiak
  • Publication number: 20100050373
    Abstract: A suction nozzle for a vacuum cleaner has a housing, a vacuum mouth disposed on the floor side in the housing, a cleaning roller mounted to rotate in the housing and driven by an electric motor, and a rechargeable battery unit for the energy supply of the electric motor. Via a rear connecting piece, the suction nozzle can be connected to a suction tube or a suction hose of a vacuum cleaner. The electric motor has a rated power of between 50 and watts, and the rechargeable battery unit has an energy density, relative to its total volume, of more than 200 watt-hours per liter (Wh/L).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Dieter Kaffenberger, Horst Dilger, Klaus-Dieter Riehl
  • Publication number: 20100050374
    Abstract: A device, system, and method for producing a flexible grommet for use against edges of an aperture. The exemplary method may involve producing a straight piece of flexible material with a U-shaped profile having two wall portions coupled by a central portion wherein an interior U-shaped profile is sized to produce a frictional fit with the edge of the aperture. Multiple slits may be produced in the wall portions at location of curves when the grommet is positioned within the aperture. The straight piece of flexible material may be bent along the slits. The grommet may be positioned within the aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: New England Die Cutting, Inc.
    Inventor: Dave Abare
  • Publication number: 20100050375
    Abstract: In the copper-alloy-based sliding material, alloy steel particles containing fine carbides are dispersed in a range of 1 to 20 wt % of the total weight into a Cu-based matrix containing 5 to 15 wt % of Sn, and the copper-alloy-based sliding material has a Vickers hardness in a range of 44 to 148 as a macro hardness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Masanori Ueyama
  • Publication number: 20100050376
    Abstract: A luggage wheel assembly that typically includes a wheel body that has an axial bearing, an axle connected to the axial bearing and engaged to a wheel housing in use so that the wheel body has an outer side facing away from the wheel housing, a fixing plate secured to the outer side of the wheel body, a cover plate removeably secured to the fixing plate and extending from a central portion of the outer side of the wheel towards a rim of the wheel body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Hung Kwan Tsang
  • Publication number: 20100050377
    Abstract: A door check device to be mounted to a door for selectively maintaining a gap when door closing is attempted. This prevents injuries to children's fingers and the like. The door check includes a base with a journal having action arm pivoted at its proximal end. The arm has a distal end extending outwardly to engage a doorstop. Indexing sockets are formed along the arm's proximal end. Each socket collaborates with the nose of a spring-biased detent to retain the action arm in a preselected position. The arm may be set in a first position to directly engage the doorstop to form a gap. Set in a second position the arm allows door closing but, upon next opening, the arm automatically reverts to door checking position. In a third position the arm is fully lowered to disable the check device. This device may find application to a variety of closures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Roman Ritachka
  • Publication number: 20100050378
    Abstract: The instant invention provides a stable, ergonomic handle that can be used with any type of kitchen utensil or other tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: MATTHEW FRANK
  • Publication number: 20100050379
    Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus for a block and tackle window balance to be incorporated in single and double hung window assemblies. In one embodiment the block and tackle window balance includes a roller secured within a bottom guide to increase range of travel of a window sash.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: Amesbury Group
    Inventor: Gary Roger Newman
  • Publication number: 20100050380
    Abstract: A hinge structure for a lid of an in-vehicle console box includes a storage box having an opening, a lid having a front end and a rear end, and a hinge member having a rotation axis. The hinge member is disposed between the storage box and the lid so the lid rotates around the rotation axis to open and close the opening. A slide mechanism is located between the lid and the hinge member so the lid can move in the directions of the front end and the rear end in relation to the hinge member when opening and closing the lid. A converting mechanism converts a turning force for rotating the lid around the rotation axis to a linear force for sliding the lid in the directions of the front end and rear end so the lid moves in the direction of the rear end when being opened, and in the direction of the front end when being closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: MORIROKU TECHNOLOGY COMPANY, LTD.
    Inventors: Yuji Fujiwara, Yukihiro Sanma
  • Publication number: 20100050381
    Abstract: A hinge includes a rack, a shaft, and an interfering assembly. The interfering assembly includes a first interfering member fixed to the rack, and a second interfering member capable of rotating with the shaft. The first interfering member includes a first end surface. A first tab is formed on the first end surface. Each of two opposite ends of the first tab forms a first slope surface. The second interfering member includes a second end surface. A first recess is defined in the second end surface for receiving the first tab therein. Each of two opposite ends of recess forms a second slope surface. The shaft rotates with respect to the rack. One of the first slope surfaces of the first tab is able to engage with a corresponding one of the two second slope surfaces of the first recess to guide the first tab sliding into the first recess.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Wen-Bin Shen
  • Publication number: 20100050382
    Abstract: A hinge assembly (100) includes a cam (13), a follower (14), a first spring (12), a control member (18) and a second spring (16). The cam has a cam surface. The follower has a latching cam surface engaging with the cam surface. The first spring provides an elastic force causing the cam surface of the cam and the latching cam surface of the follower to resist each other. The control member slidably resists the follower. The second spring provides an elastic force to return the control member. The control member is movable to push the follower to rotate to realize the cam surface of the cam to rotate relative to the latching cam surface of the follower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FIH (HONG KONG) LIMITED
    Inventors: YU ZHANG, WU-CHUN ZENG
  • Publication number: 20100050383
    Abstract: An electronic device includes a frame having a protrusion, a support, and a hinge assembly. The hinge assembly rotatably connects the frame and the support. The hinge assembly includes an elastic member providing a force pulling the frame and the support to move towards each other. The protrusion of the frame and the support cooperatively support the electronic device on a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO. LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: JIN-XIN WANG, CHAO-ZHONG FU, JIAN LI, LI-JUN YUAN
  • Publication number: 20100050384
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a cam (13), a follower (14), a first spring (12), a control member (17) and a second spring (16). The cam has a first cam surface (135) and a second cam surface (136). The follower has a third cam surface (141) engaging with the first cam surface. The first spring provides an elastic force causing the cam surface of the cam and the third cam surface of the follower to resist each other. The control member has a fourth cam surface engaging with the second cam surface of the cam. The second spring is positioned between the control member and the follower. The control member is movable to push the cam to rotate to realize the first cam surface of the cam to rotate relative to the third cam surface of the follower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FIH (HONG KONG) LIMITED
    Inventors: YU ZHANG, SHUI-JIN DONG
  • Publication number: 20100050385
    Abstract: A hinge assembly (100) includes a cam (13), a follower (14), a first spring (12), a press rod (17), a control member (18) and a second spring (16). The cam has a cam surface. The follower has a latching cam surface engaging with the cam surface. The first spring provides an elastic force causing the cam surface of the cam and the latching cam surface of the follower to abut each other. The press rod includes a threaded portion (173). The control member threadedly engages with the threaded portion of the press rod. The second spring provides an elastic force to return the control member. When the press rod is pushed, the control member rotates to cause the follower to rotate whereby the cam surface of the cam rotates relative to the latching cam surface of the follower.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicants: SHENZHEN FUTAIHONG PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., FIH (HONG KONG) LIMITED
    Inventors: YU ZHANG, GUO-ZHAO HUANG
  • Publication number: 20100050386
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a shaft, a leaf, a rotatable joint, a positioning member, an elastic engaging member, and a fastening member. The leaf is non-rotatably mounted on the shaft, and the rotatable joint is rotatably mounted on the shaft. The positioning member includes an engaging surface, and is non-rotatable relative to the rotatable joint. The elastic engaging member includes an engaging surface, and is non-rotatably sleeved on the shaft. The fastening member is engaged on the shaft. One of the engaging surfaces of the positioning member and the engaging member forms an engaging protrusion, and the other one of the engaging surfaces of the positioning member and the engaging member defines an engaging slot engaging with the engaging protrusion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: JIN-XIN WANG, CHAO-ZHONG FU
  • Publication number: 20100050387
    Abstract: An interference assembly comprises a first element defining a first side and a through hole, and a second element rotatably relative to the first element, with defining a first surface facing and corresponding to the first side. Two staggered first raised portions along a circumference of the first element protrude from the first side. Two staggered second raised portions around the through hole protrude from the first side. The first raised portions communicate with the corresponding second raised portions. The second element defines a fixing hole, two first depressed portions staggered along a circumference in the first surface, and two second depressed portions staggered around the fixing hole in the first surface. The first depressed portions also communicate with the corresponding second depressed portions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicants: HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (SHENZHEN) CO., LTD., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: SHIN-YUAN WANG, XIN-RU OU-YANG
  • Publication number: 20100050388
    Abstract: The present development provides a continuous fiber reinforced elastomeric resin molded article which may be exemplified by a flexible hinge used in the hostile environment of a refuse collection vehicle. The present development also provides an advanced molding process for making fiber-reinforced elastomeric composite molded articles. The process is particularly useful for articles that include areas of flexure and point loading.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: MCNEILUS TRUCK AND MANUFACTURING, INC.
    Inventors: Kevin M. Shaber, Thomas G. Lindblom
  • Publication number: 20100050389
    Abstract: A furniture slide assembly and its method of use are disclosed for positioning the furniture slide between an object to be moved and the floor upon which the object is moved. The furniture slide comprises a main body having an inner portion and outer surface. The inner portion forms a concave surface for receiving the object to be moved and at least a portion of the outer surface is in contact with the floor when inserted between the floor and the object to be moved. An apex is centrally located about the outer portion from which the inner portion and outer surface converge. A peripheral edge surrounds an outer perimeter of the main body and a thumb tab upwardly extends from the peripheral edge vertically that is extended from the floor for locating and manipulating the furniture slide assembly between the floor and the object to be moved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: Waxman Consumer Products Group Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher L. Robinson, Jim McPhillips, Ashley Kellems, Angie Kosasih
  • Publication number: 20100050390
    Abstract: A method for installing a grip member onto a shaft includes: (a) providing the grip member with a surrounding wall that defines an insert space; (b) injecting a gas into the insert space to expand the surrounding wall; (c) moving the shaft into the insert space; and (d) allowing the surrounding wall to contract so that the grip member is fitted around the shaft. A structure of the grip member is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Robert WU
  • Publication number: 20100050391
    Abstract: A knob is formed of a relatively brittle material, and has a bore to receive an insert. The insert is received in the bore, and includes an internal bore to receive a fastener member to secure the knob to an underlying structure. The insert is formed with an axial passage on an outer surface of the insert. The axial passage is between the insert and an inner surface of the bore in the knob. The insert extends into the bore along an axial direction. The axial passages extend with at least a component in an axial direction. The adhesive is received in the bore in the knob, and moves upwardly into the axial passage in the insert.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Earl David Forrest
  • Publication number: 20100050392
    Abstract: A seed cotton dryer comprises an array of electromagnetic wave energy generators in a cotton gin and a cotton picker/stripper. An appropriate amount of energy is used to evaporate a considerable amount of moisture in the seed cotton without producing enough energy to pop the cotton seeds. Seed cotton dried by wave energy is much easier to separate the cotton seeds and lint from leaves, stems and other plant parts. The seed cotton is preferably transported through the dryer in a conduit having flat sides which reflects the wave energy more efficiently than through a round conduit. Provisions are made to prevent arcing in the transport conduit when extraneous metal pieces are inadvertently mixed with the seed cotton. In some embodiments, heated air from a diesel engine is used to dry crops as they are being harvested.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Ronnie J. Nimmo
  • Publication number: 20100050393
    Abstract: This invention relates to an apparatus and a method of use for an inert gas rebreather used in furnace operations, such as melting and/or casting high purity silicon for solar cells and solar modules. The apparatus includes a process chamber, a reservoir in fluid communication with the process chamber, and a motive force device in fluid communication with the process chamber and the reservoir. Recycling or reusing the inert gas reduces operating expenses of the casting process while maintaining low impurity levels in the cast silicon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: BP Corporation North America Inc.
    Inventor: Roger F. Clark
  • Publication number: 20100050394
    Abstract: A pull tie is described comprising an elastomeric cord and a slidable stop. The pull tie can be suitable for releasable, multi-use closures for flexible bags and containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Brian A. Fried
  • Publication number: 20100050395
    Abstract: A stationery clip has a body, an insert and an arm. The body has a chamber and a back. The back has two insertion holes, two grooves and two shoulders. The insertion holes are formed in the back. The grooves are transversely defined in the back adjacent to the insertion holes. The shoulders are formed transversely on the back adjacent to a corresponding groove. The insert having a design is removably mounted in the chamber of the body. The arm is mounted in the insertion holes and grooves and abuts the shoulders. Therefore, the design of the insert is not damaged and abraded easily and can be frequently changed. The stationery clip can have a unique design and the arm is held in place without adhesive.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Nick Hsu
  • Publication number: 20100050396
    Abstract: A Removable Chock Insert Liner Assembly to be affixed to a chock includes an ? Insert Panel, a ? Insert Panel, a ? Insert Panel, an ? Insert Panel, and a Bridge Member. The Bridge Member has an upper bridge surface, a lower bridge surface, an anterior end, a posterior end, a first slot and a second slot. The ? Insert Panel comprises an ? upper surface, a ? lower surface, an ? first distal end, a ? second distal end, an ? pair of ? first distal end slots, and a pair of ? second distal end slots. The ? Insert Panel comprises a ? upper surface, a ? lower surface, a ? first distal end, a ? second distal end, a pair of ? first distal end slots, and a pair of ? second distal end slots. The ? Insert Panel comprises a ? upper surface, a ? lower surface, a ? first distal end, a ? second distal end, a pair of ? first distal end slots, and ? pair of ? second distal end slots.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Garry Gates
  • Publication number: 20100050397
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connecting means (1) for two crossing cable strands (2.1, 2.2) of cable play systems having a cloverleaf-shaped inner cable guide opening (5) in which, in a wraparound region (6), cable strands deflected by a wraparound angle (7) are fixed, wherein a height (3) of the connecting means is equal to or greater than a cable diameter (4) of the cable strands to be connected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: BERLINER SEILFABRIK GMBH & CO.
    Inventor: Karl-Heinz Köhler
  • Publication number: 20100050398
    Abstract: The objective of the invention is to enable the easy installation and displaying of a quilt, textile or similar on a vertical mounting surface invisibly. It also removes the critical need for leveling devices to obtain precision horizontal installation, still allowing for proper horizontal display of the quilt. The use of powerful magnets, center point mounting, and variable length rod enables display and easy switching out of different sized textiles. Using an adjustable rod across the full width of the quilt ensures proper support as well as full exposure of the quilt for viewing without the distraction of the mounting device itself being evident. Options in device mounting make it possible to remove and re-install without damaging the vertical surface on which it was mounted. As no compression of the textile is used with this invention, uneven fading (evident in most textiles exposed to light) of the quilt will not occur.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Brian Edward Gokey
  • Publication number: 20100050399
    Abstract: Active material based clamping apparatuses for securing objects and methods of making the same are provided. In an embodiment, a clamping apparatus for securing an object comprises: a clamp comprising an engaging surface for securing an object, wherein the engaging surface comprises an active material capable of undergoing a change in a property upon exposure to an activation source such that the active material conforms to a surface of the object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS , INC.
    Inventors: Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20100050400
    Abstract: A clip for holding folded articles such as towels, fabrics, textiles, nonwoven fabrics, paper, and other sheets of material, includes a single piece construction having legs or braces separated by an opening. A cross member or hinge member connects the braces at one end. A tongue extends from the cross member and is biased to point into the opening between the braces. The tongue and braces can be opened to form a gap for inserting a folded fabric, such as a towel. The tongue and the cross member define holes or grooves for fitting buttons to hold decorative elements and accessories onto the folded fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Robyn Pellei
  • Publication number: 20100050401
    Abstract: A connecting structure for connecting a first component to a second component may include a clip and a hollow seat portion. The clip is capable of engaging the second component and has a hollow main body. The main body has a support shaft and at least one engagement blade formed therein. The hollow seat portion is integrally formed in the first component and has at least one engagement wall portion. The clip main body is constructed to be placed on the seat portion while the seat portion is introduced thereinto. The support shaft is constructed to be introduced into the seat portion when the clip main body is placed on the seat portion. The at least one engagement wall portion has at least one rib portion that is capable of contacting the support shaft introduced into the seat portion. The at least one engagement blade is arranged and constructed to engage the at least one engagement wall portion when the clip is rotated about an axis thereof, so that the clip can be secured to the seat portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: Jyun Komeno, Toshio Iwahara
  • Publication number: 20100050402
    Abstract: A locking device for use in securing a first part relative to a second part.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: WORISSFIELD PTY LTD.
    Inventor: Ian Rissman
  • Publication number: 20100050403
    Abstract: A rotary tensioning device that is low profile when not being used to apply or reduce tension and that provides an easily manipulated tightening and loosening control mechanism. A control mechanism in the form of a flip up handle is pivotally connected to a drive member and rotation of the handle and drive member rotates a driven member connected to a spool to take up or let out a cable or wire to apply or reduce tension in the cable or wire. When not being used to apply or reduce tension, the flip up handle is pivoted to lie flush against a housing of the spool to provide a low profile. A tension indicating device provides a user with a mechanism for reproducing tensions between uses.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Ashley KIMES
  • Publication number: 20100050404
    Abstract: The present invention provides a centering mechanism capable of improving the efficiency of centering work and reducing the work time and the cost. The centering mechanism centers an inner member located inside in a radial direction, with respect to an outer member arranged to surround the inner member in a circumferential direction, and includes a vertical-direction positioning unit which positions the inner member in a vertical direction in a non-stepwise manner.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventor: Taku Ichiryu
  • Publication number: 20100050405
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a device for precision machining or micromachining workpieces, with a feed mechanism for transporting at least one workpiece, with a storage device, which includes a magazine for storing at least one workpiece, and with a tool for machining at least one workpiece, wherein the at least one workpiece can be led out of the magazine of the storage device to the feed mechanism, wherein the feed mechanism can be moved such that a workpiece held on the feed mechanism can be transported to the tool, wherein the magazine of the storage device can be moved along a magazine motion path, whose course is aligned at least in part with a workpiece motion path, which is traversed by a workpiece held on the feed mechanism during the transport from the magazine of the storage device to the tool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: Supfina Grieshaber GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Simon Wolber
  • Publication number: 20100050406
    Abstract: A system and method for repairing a hollow fan blade. In one aspect the blade includes a hollow portion having a plug disposed therein, wherein the plug is smaller than the opening. During processing the blade is located under a vacuum box and the gap is sealed between the plug and the opening using a fiber laser.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventor: Gregory Thomas Krause
  • Publication number: 20100050407
    Abstract: A method for repairing a damaged or corroded tong jaw having a jaw root and an original seating component. The method includes the steps of: (a) machining away corroded or damaged portions of the original seating component; (b) machining into a non-damaged portion of the original seating component and/or jaw root, thereby forming a machined base configured to receive a new seating component, the new seating component including a feature adapted for engaging the machined base. The new seating component is then connected onto the machined base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Inventors: David A. Buck, Daniel S. Bangert, Rizal Masingkan, Michael Coates