Patents Issued in March 9, 2010
  • Patent number: 7673379
    Abstract: A method of producing a stent-balloon assembly is disclosed which includes providing a stent having a polymeric component; exposing the stent to a relative humidity of 20% to 100%; and crimping the stent on a balloon of a catheter assembly. The polymeric component could be at least part of the material from which the stent is made or could be a constituent of a coating for the stent, such as a drug delivery coating. In lieu of or in addition to the application of humidity, a plasticizing agent can be applied to the polymeric component. A crimping device is also disclosed which allows the stent to be exposed to humidity during the crimping process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Abbott Cardiovascular Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen Dirk Pacetti
  • Patent number: 7673380
    Abstract: A method for making a rotor for a permanent magnet motor, the method, in at least certain aspects, including connecting a series of a plurality of guides to a hollow rotor body, the guides spaced-apart and extending longitudinally of the rotor body, the rotor body being generally cylindrical with an interior surface, applying a plurality of magnets to the interior surface of the rotor body, and emplacing a shunt structure over the plurality of magnets to inhibit inter-magnet action during rotor assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Varco I/P, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregory Paul Cervenka
  • Patent number: 7673381
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a head suspension includes forming a rigid part chain product where the rigid parts are provided continuously, including forming a plate-like framework for formation of the rigid part including formation margins for formation of the rails and forming a deformable part along a longitudinal curve of each formation margin and forming the rails by bending the formation margins to rise, forming a resilient member chain product where the resilient members are provided continuously, forming the flexures, forming the bases, and a stacking and coupling step stacking and coupling the rigid part chain product, the resilient member chain product, the bases, and the flexures, to form a stacked set, and cutting and separating respective head suspensions from the stacked set.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: NHK Spring Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Takikawa, Masao Hanya, Noriyuki Saito
  • Patent number: 7673382
    Abstract: A method of forming an external electrode of an electronic component involving: a paste preparation step, a removal step, an element preparation step, a contact step, and a formation step. A jig with a groove into which an element forming the electronic component can be inserted is prepared. A conductive paste is filled in the groove, and then removed, so as to leave the conductive paste along a first wall surface of the groove and remove the rest. Then, element immediately above the groove is located, and inserted into the groove and moved toward the first wall surface. Finally, the element is moved along the first wall surface and toward the aperture in a state in which the ridgeline of the element is kept in contact with the first wall surface, and moved away from the first wall surface so as to separate the ridgeline from the first wall surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: TDK Corporation
    Inventors: Ko Onodera, Satoshi Kurimoto, Yoji Tozawa, Shirou Ootsuki
  • Patent number: 7673383
    Abstract: An apparatus for manufacturing a complete wire harness from a plurality of wire harnesses have a first transferring unit, an inserting unit and a removing unit. The first transferring unit transfers a wire clamping bar, which holds a partial harness having a plurality of electric wires, to a wire-harness fabricating station. The inserting unit inserts terminals disposed at ends of the plurality of electric wires into predetermined terminal accommodating chambers of predetermined connectors set on a connector receiving jig. The removing unit removes the emptied wire clamping bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Yutaka Miyamoto, Shigeji Kudo, Hiroo Suzuki, Tsutomu Nakayama, Jiro Aikawa
  • Patent number: 7673384
    Abstract: A six degree of freedom servo driven robot having a seventh axis servo motor for rotating servo driven nut runners affixed to swing arms about a radius. The robot offering flexibility within high production manufacturing and automotive assembly processes by realizing translational movement of servo driven nut runners about seven degrees of translation for fastening component parts of a work product within a work envelope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Genesis Systems Group, LLC
    Inventors: Terry O'Connell, Jack Fisher, Arthur E. Smith, Jr., Satoshi Sato
  • Patent number: 7673385
    Abstract: A laminated structure having an electrode hard to peel off and a method of manufacturing the laminated structure. The laminated structure has: a backing substrate; a lower electrode including an adhesive layer containing a metal oxide and a conductive layer formed on the backing substrate with the adhesive layer therebetween; a dielectric layer disposed on the lower electrode; and an upper electrode disposed on the dielectric layer. Further, the method includes the steps of: (a) disposing a lower electrode by forming a conductive layer on a backing substrate with an adhesive layer containing a metal oxide therebetween; (b) disposing a dielectric layer by spraying powder of a dielectric material to the lower electrode for deposition; (c) heat-treating the dielectric layer; and (d) forming an upper electrode on the dielectric layer before or after step (c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsu Miyoshi
  • Patent number: 7673386
    Abstract: The electrical and mechanical connection between a component chip and a carrier substrate having electrical wiring is realized by means of bumps. A support frame that is adapted in its height to the height of the bumps is arranged between the carrier substrate and the component chip and has a planar or planarized surface, so that it contacts closely to the bottom side of the component chip. Different covers are proposed for the additional encapsulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: EPCOS AG
    Inventors: Alois Stelzl, Christian Bauer, Hans Krueger, Robert Hammedinger
  • Patent number: 7673387
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a circuit-board layer on a base surface (2), which base surface (2) includes conductor patterns (19). The circuit-board layer being manufactured comprises a conductor-pattern layer (14), an insulating layer (1), and at least one component (6) inside the insulating-material layer (1). According to the invention, the component (6) is attached to the conductor layer (4), the conductor layer (4) is aligned relative to the base surface (2) attached with the aid of an insulating material (1) to the base surface (2). An insulating-material layer (1) is thus formed between the conductor layer (4) and the base surface (2), on which the said at least one component (6) is located. Electrical contacts are formed between the contact areas (7) of the component (6) and the conductor layer (4), in such a way that contact openings (17) are opened at the positions of the contact areas (7) of the component (6) and conductive material is made in the contact openings (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Imbera Electronics Oy
    Inventors: Risto Tuominen, Petteri Palm
  • Patent number: 7673388
    Abstract: This is a method of forming a fracture start portion of a ductile metal part on an inner circumferential face of a through hole by irradiating laser to an opposing position of the inner circumferential face of the thorough hole of the ductile metal part having a predetermined through hole and by forming a large number of recess portions separated with a predetermined distance at a predetermined interval from one opening to the other opening of the through hole, in which a recess part is formed, instead of by focusing the laser exactly onto the inner circumferential face of the through hole, by irradiating it onto the inner circumferential face of the through hole while defocusing from the inner circumferential face of the through hole by a predetermined amount as well as by supplying an assist gas to a position of the laser irradiation, and the laser is moved linearly at a predetermined speed from one side opening to the other side opening on the inner circumferential face of the through hole while irradiatin
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: The Yasunaga Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroichi Hase
  • Patent number: 7673389
    Abstract: Cold plate apparatuses and methods of fabrication are provided for facilitating cooling of an electronics component. The fabrication approach includes: forming a tube with a first metal and having first and second ends with a heat transfer region disposed therebetween; positioning the heat transfer region of the tube within a mold and casting a heat sink member around the tube by contacting a second metal in molten form over the tube, wherein the first and second metals react peritectically to form an alloy layer between the tube and the heat sink member, and a metallurgical bond is formed between the tube and heat sink member with cooling of the molten second metal; and controlling casting of the heat sink member to minimize a thickness of the alloy layer to enhance a heat transfer characteristic of the metallurgical bond formed between the tube and the heat sink member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Bret W. Lehman, Roger R. Schmidt, Prabjit Singh
  • Patent number: 7673390
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling bearings and a stub into a bore of a hub. The apparatus includes a block defining a receiving position for the hub. A feed mechanism arranges plurality of bearings in the form of an annular array. A first mandrel is axially displaceable toward one side of the hub to push the annular array of bearings into the bore of the hub. A second mandrel is axially displaceable toward an opposite side of the hub to push a stub within the annular array of bearings in the bore of the hub. The stub includes at least one outwardly biased detent for retaining the bearings in the hub.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: Brian Hasiak, Brian V. Vloch
  • Patent number: 7673391
    Abstract: A utility tool comprising a body having a first and a second end position on opposite ends of the body; a removable device; as well as a first tool and a second tool configured to be selectively coupled to each other or one of either the first end and second end of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Wagic, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald L. Johnson, Idriss Mansouri-Chafik, Skye David Barcus
  • Patent number: 7673392
    Abstract: An apparatus for clipping a protrusion of material is provided. The protrusion may, for example, be a bolt head, a nut, a rivet, a weld bead, or a temporary assembly alignment tab protruding from a substrate surface of assembled components. The apparatus typically includes a cleaver having a cleaving edge and a cutting blade having a cutting edge. Generally, a mounting structure configured to confine the cleaver and the cutting blade and permit a range of relative movement between the cleaving edge and the cutting edge is provided. Also typically included is a power device coupled to the cutting blade. The power device is configured to move the cutting edge toward the cleaving edge. In some embodiments the power device is activated by a momentary switch. A retraction device is also generally provided, where the retraction device is configured to move the cutting edge away from the cleaving edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Technical Services Y-12, LLC
    Inventor: Fariborz M. Bzorgi
  • Patent number: 7673393
    Abstract: A line block having a body; a first leg extending substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body; a first leg quoin line groove extending from a front surface of the first leg; a first leg wall line groove extending from a bottom surface of the first leg; a second leg spaced apart from the first leg, wherein the second leg extends substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the body, wherein a corner pole receiving groove is defined between at least a portion of the body, the first leg, and the second leg; a second leg quoin line groove extending from a front surface of the body and a front surface of the second leg, along a portion of an inner wall surface of the second leg; and a second leg wall line groove extending from a right side surface of the second leg.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Robert E. Hudson
  • Patent number: 7673394
    Abstract: It is extremely important that wall board form a tight seal between the top of wall board and when fluted deck is the roof that meets the wall board. The present invention relates to a template useful for preparing wall board or related building material to match the fluting pattern of fluted deck panels to form a seal between the decking panels and walls of a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: John P. Ruppe, III
  • Patent number: 7673395
    Abstract: A dryer bar apparatus of a dryer for drying a web in a papermaking machine includes a number of turbulence bars circumferentially spaced equidistantly around the inner surface of the dryer shell for generating turbulence within a layer of condensate. The arrangement is such that uniformity of the transfer of thermal energy in the cross machine direction is maximized while the transfer of thermal energy through the dryer shell from the inner to the outer surface is minimized. Also, the number of turbulence bars is determined by the equation: N=int{2?Ri/[4?(Ri/d)½+W]} in which: N=the number of turbulence bars in the dryer shell; int=an integer number of a value in { } brackets; ?=3.1415; Ri=the inside radius of the inner surface of the dryer shell in inches; d=an average depth of the layer in inches; W=a width of each of the turbulence bars in inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Kadant Johnson Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald L. Timm, Gregory L. Wedel
  • Patent number: 7673396
    Abstract: A protective foot cover for use in dance, exercise, or athletic applications using strategically placed thicker protective pieces in ball and toe areas of the foot in connection with an elastic material in the sole structure to allow the foot to move freely and provide less of a barrier between the foot and floor such that a dancer can better sense the floor upon which they dance. The foot cover incorporates strategically placed protective patches that provide support, protection, and comfort to the ball and toe portions of the foot. The patches are spaced from one another so that the footwear is able to move more naturally with the expansion of the foot as pressure is applied to the foot. The foot cover may be used alone, whereby the toe and heel portions of the foot are exposed, or in combination with a dance shoe providing a stretchable sole running from the arch portion to the toe portion of the foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Ballet Makers, Inc.
    Inventors: Dan Terlizzi, Paul Terlizzi, Laura M. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 7673397
    Abstract: An article of footwear includes an upper and a sole assembly secured to the upper. The sole assembly includes a top plate and a bottom plate spaced from the top plate. A central member is positioned between the top plate and bottom plate and includes a plurality of elastomeric support columns. A plurality of indentations is formed in a lower surface and along a periphery of the central member, with each indentation extending upwardly into an elastomeric support column. A plurality of raised portions is positioned along a periphery of the bottom plate, with each raised portion being nested in an indentation in the central member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventor: Kelly B. Jarvis
  • Patent number: 7673398
    Abstract: A shoe for sports that includes a shoe upper portion that is adapted to cover a user's foot, a ground friction device that is adapted to increase friction on a ground and an outer sole that is adapted to surround the user's foot together with the shoe upper portion. The outer sole includes one or more through holes, a top surface that supports the user's foot and a bottom surface. The ground friction device is assembled to the outer sole by being inserted into the through holes. The through hole includes a hole threaded portion, a lower end that is adjacent to the bottom surface of the outer sole and an upper end that is adjacent to the top surface of the outer sole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Myung Hoe Koo
  • Patent number: 7673399
    Abstract: The invention relates to a self-ventilated, ergonomic footwear item and elastomeric sole. According to the invention, both sides of the sole comprise a plurality of longitudinal grooves, in the area corresponding to the sole of the foot, which are essentially parallel to the edge of the sole closest thereto and which have a depth equal to half of the height of the sole. Moreover, the grooves are disposed in an alternating manner in relation to one another on either side of the sole in the form of a bellows-type structure. The upper comprises a perforated elastic laminar body which is disposed beneath the insole in the area corresponding to the sole and the foot and which, together with the sole, forms a chamber having a volume that varies upon walking. In addition, three thick bands are solidly connected to the body and the upper in order to stiffen said elastic laminar body, namely: one longitudinal band and two transverse end bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Calzados Hergar, S.A.
    Inventor: Basilio Garcia-Perez Aradros
  • Patent number: 7673400
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a golf shoe outsole that is comprised of a generally soft, and flexible base having a plurality of raised portions on the lower surface of the base, a pair of flexing supports that are placed on the lower surface of the base in an abutting relationship with the raised portions, a pair of chassis that fit over and about the base and a two-piece arch support that acts as a shank for the arch section of the base. The base has a plurality of raised portions that are of a size shape, and number to correspond and mesh together with a plurality of cleat containing pods that are molded to both chassis. The two-piece arch support allows for the necessary rigidity in the arch area of the shoe which is vital for a good golf swing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventors: Ashley J. Brown, Thomas Gray, Jonathan G. Bacon, John J. Erickson, James M. Feeney, Douglas K. Robinson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7673401
    Abstract: The snow removal apparatus has a tubular handle having a first end spaced apart from a second end, a threaded cap selectively fitted to the second end. A cavity within the handle is extended from the second end to proximal to the first end. The scoop has a scoop front spaced apart from a scoop back, a first side spaced apart from a second side, the scoop back affixed to the first end of the handle. An outlet exits the handle first end and is joined to the scoop back. The scoop has a floor extended from the scoop back to the scoop front and from the first side to the second side. A button is disposed on the handle for selectively releasing a material from the cavity into the scoop, such materials useful in snow melt and in aiding auto traction, for example. The bristles disposed on the scoop front are especially useful in snow removal from auto glass.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: Joseph J. Muti, Anthony R. Muti
  • Patent number: 7673402
    Abstract: A self-propelled work machine, in which the load of the work unit increases according to an increase in the travel speed. The self-propelled work machine includes electric motors for driving the travel units, an engine for driving the work unit, a work drive instruction unit for instructing the work unit to turn on, and a control unit for controlling the electric motors. The control unit reduces the actual speed of the electric motors by using PID control so that the actual rotational speed of the engine returns to a reference rotational speed when the actual rotational speed of the engine falls below the reference rotational speed in the state in which the work unit is turned on by the work drive instruction unit. The reference rotational speed is a reference value used when the work unit is driven by the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsutomu Wakitani, Norikazu Shimizu, Toshiaki Kawakami
  • Patent number: 7673403
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an earth moving or similar machine having an operator positionable primary implement having symmetrically aligned and horizontally opposite connecting bosses for connecting to a secondary implement having upwardly extending hook members, each with an open face, and ramp portions leading from the open face to seat portion and a recurved point, extending toward the ramp portion, so that the machine operator can connect the hook members to the connecting bosses by maneuvering the machine and positioning the primary implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas Edward Bridges
  • Patent number: 7673404
    Abstract: An electric steam iron includes a housing, a water tank within the housing, a bottom plate to which the housing is secured, a heating device in the bottom plate for heating the bottom plate, a boiling chamber inside the bottom plate, and a further independent steam boiler above the bottom plate, and having an inlet in fluid communication with the water tank and an outlet in fluid communication with the inlet of the boiling chamber, such that steam from the steam boiler will be supplied to the boiling chamber in the bottom plate and further heated by the high temperature of the bottom plate, so that little drops in the steam will be fully boiled, thereby providing a high purity of the steam sprayed out of the bottom plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Yueli Electrical Appliance Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fang Guohong
  • Patent number: 7673405
    Abstract: An electric steam iron includes a water tank, a bottom plate, a heating device which is used to heat the bottom plate, a steam generator having a boiling chamber, a heating device to heat the boiling chamber and a temperature controller, with the inlet of the boiling chamber being in fluid communication with the water tank and the outlet of the boiling chamber being in fluid communication with the outlet opening of the bottom plate. The heating devices of the bottom plate and the steam generator are connected in series with their respective heating circuit, so that there is sole control of the steam generator, such that when using the iron again, it can spray steam directly without warming up the steam generator, thereby eliminating the warming up time of the steam generator and greatly speeding up boiling of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Yueli Electrical Appliance Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Fang Guohong
  • Patent number: 7673406
    Abstract: Hanging laminar label having a main portion of essentially rectangular sheet of a width H and with a longitudinal central appendage, which is essentially rectangular and of a narrower width h, wherein the appendage is attached to the main portion by a connection neck that has a central portion of a constant width z and the distal end of the appendage has a wider section with a portion of a constant width Z, the sum of the widths of the main portion and the appendage H+h being equal to the sum of the widths of the connection neck and the wider section of the appendage z+Z.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Giro GH, S.A.
    Inventor: Ezequiel Giro Amigo
  • Patent number: 7673407
    Abstract: A carrier and protective case are particularly useful for storing and viewing large format documents, which can be spooled together or inserted in a series of spooled transparent sleeves. The web like spools is stored on two spaced apart rollers that are in rotary engagement with opposing halves of the case, and nested within the case or a frame when the opposing halves are folded together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: Donald William Cowdrey, Gary Truesdale Gibbs
  • Patent number: 7673408
    Abstract: An assembly including a substantially transparent front panel and a partially translucent screen with a partially reflective front surface positioned to face a rear side of the front panel and spaced apart therefrom by a predetermined distance. A first image is defined on the rear side for reflection by the front surface to provide a virtual image thereof. A back wall is positioned behind the screen and displays a second image on an exposed surface thereof facing the rear surface of the screen. The exposed surface is spaced apart from the front surface of the screen by the predetermined distance. The virtual image is located substantially in the plane of the exposed surface so that the virtual image appears to be positioned behind the screen.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Dimplex North America Limited
    Inventors: Kristoffer Hess, Kelly Stinson
  • Patent number: 7673409
    Abstract: A sign holder arrangement for the support of a sign from an overhead support. The holder arrangement comprises an upper sign holder assembly clamped upon an upper edge of the sign and a lower sign holder assembly clamped upon a lower edge of the sign. At least one outer support clip is disposed peripherally around the upper sign holder. The clip has a cable attached thereto and to the overhead support to hold the sign therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Rose Displays, Ltd.
    Inventors: David E. Pitcher, Rebecca Suciu, Thomas P. Burrous, Alan L. Stenfors, Sidney Rose
  • Patent number: 7673410
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a portable shopping aid used to mount a shopping list, coupons, or other documents. Contrary to conventional wisdom, the aid is configured to sacrifice a writing surface in favor of portability, by providing a small body that may be easily inserted into a pocket or handbag. The body includes a clamp for mounting the aid onto a push bar of a shopping cart, for hands free viewing during shopping, as well as a document clip mechanism that clips documents by their ends closest to the push bar. In order to provide structural rigidity to retained documents, and notwithstanding the absence of a writing surface or clipboard, the clip mechanism is configured to crease documents. The shopping aid also includes feet for standing the aid upright, on a flat surface, and means for mounting the aid magnetically on a refrigerator wall, in all cases such that retained documents are presented in a convenient reading orientation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: CM Concepts, LLC
    Inventors: Michael J. Buerchner, Christopher N. Pericles, Michael J. Strasser, William G. Tammen
  • Patent number: 7673411
    Abstract: A method is performed by an electronic weapon system. The electronic weapon system is aimed in a first direction toward a target. The method includes, deploying an electrode of the system in a second direction different from the first direction, to compensate for drag of a tether wire deployed with the electrode. For example, a tether wire deployed from a tether wire store located adjacent to a cavity from which the electrode is propelled may exert a drag force causing inaccuracies of the propelled electrode. Compensation is accomplished, for example, by virtue of shaping the cavity. Compensation improves accuracy of the electrode striking the target.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: TASER International, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Wallace Baldwin
  • Patent number: 7673412
    Abstract: A collapsible firearm stock system is generally provided and preferably includes a shoulder stock system adapted to receive a buttstock thereon, and a locking linkage having a first linkage portion, a second linkage portion, and a hinge pin operatively uniting the first and said second linkage portions. One of the linkage portions is carried by the shoulder stock assembly so as to define a terminal end therefore, the other of the linkage portions being adapted to be carried by a firearm. Each of the linkage portions are adapted so as to automatically unite in locking engagement upon axial alignment of the shoulder stock assembly with the firearm about the hinge pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: R/M Equipment, Inc.
    Inventor: Todd Griffin
  • Patent number: 7673413
    Abstract: A method for upgrading a non-recoil suppressing (NRS) stock to a special operations (Spec Ops) stock with full recoil suppression. The new parts are the slide member and lever that has a cam member mounted on its upper end and an extension spring attached to its bottom end. A locking pin is removed from the stationary slide member and two retainer pins are inserted from the sides into the new slide member to facilitate spring action. This structure functions in the same manner as the recoil reduction structure illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 5,722,195. A replacement sleeve has a rib member extending downwardly from its bottom surface. Replacement sleeve and extension spring are assembled in a tubular member to form a second recoil reduction assembly. This recoil reduction structure functions in the same manner as the structure illustrated in U.S. Pat. No. 6,732,466.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Blackhawk Industries Product Group Unlimited LLC
    Inventor: James K. Bentley
  • Patent number: 7673414
    Abstract: A method of fishing that employs a fishing loop as the terminal tackle article that holds bait and interoperates with fish attractants. The fishing loop opens a gap urged by pressure between a gradual bend top and a loop closing extension to receive bait and allow fish flesh to pass. The gap closes after pressure is released holding the bait or engaged fish. The fishing loop has an elongated lever eye for securing fishing line. The lever eye also serves to help the loop stay closed under pressure from swimming fish. The fishing loop can be shaped from a single section of wire or rod; or, the loop closing extension can be a separate flexible material when rigidity in the fish engaging portion is desired. The fishing loop can be used with natural or penetrable artificial bait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph M. Ivey
  • Patent number: 7673415
    Abstract: An apparatus to promote plant growth in vast desert areas is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a blocking plate pivotally jointed to at least two support posts. The blocking plate is operated by an electrical motor to turn wheels secured to a rotary rod to extend or pull back cables connecting the blocking plate and the wheels in order to swing the blocking plate between an approximately horizontal position and one or two approximately vertical positions in order to protect the plants underneath and promote plant growth. The apparatus can include a solar cell layer in the blocking plate, or attach a wind turbine at the top of one of the support posts to generate electrical energy from the extreme desert sunlight and windstorm. Further, rain gutters can be formed onto the blocking plate to collect and distribute rainwater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Youbao Wan
  • Patent number: 7673416
    Abstract: Planting pots and a multi-compartment tray are provided, the pots and tray having a self-orienting configuration for urging the pots into proper alignment when same are placed within compartments of the tray. The pots include angled recesses disposed radially about the bottom portion of the pots. The compartments of the tray include angled protrusions disposed radially about the bottom portion of the compartment. The angled recesses of the pot engage with the angled protrusions of the compartment when the pot is placed in the compartment to urge the pot into proper alignment. A plurality of slots are included along an upper portion of each pot for allowing optional identification tags to be inserted thereinto. The identification tags, in addition to logos, artwork, or other indicia, if included, are positioned by the self-orienting configuration of the pots and tray to face in a desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas J. Smith, Henry L. Huntington
  • Patent number: 7673417
    Abstract: Planting pots and a multi-compartment tray are provided, the pots and tray having a self-orienting configuration for urging the pots into proper alignment when same are placed within compartments of the tray. The pots include angled recesses disposed radially about the bottom portion of the pots. The compartments of the tray include angled protrusions disposed radially about the bottom portion of the compartment. The angled recesses of the pot engage with the angled protrusions of the compartment when the pot is placed in the compartment to urge the pot into proper alignment. A plurality of slots are included along an upper portion of each pot for allowing optional identification tags to be inserted thereinto. The identification tags, in addition to logos, artwork, or other indicia, if included, are positioned by the self-orienting configuration of the pots and tray to face in a desired direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventors: Thomas J. Smith, Henry L. Huntington
  • Patent number: 7673418
    Abstract: A horticultural irrigation system comprising a plant growth container. The plant growth container comprises a receptacle for a plant growth medium, a reservoir, a container inlet, a float valve and an outlet means. The container inlet supplies water to the reservoir. The float valve is adapted to close the container inlet when the water in the reservoir reaches a pre-determined level. An outlet means allows the passage of water from the reservoir to the receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: City Greening Engineering Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Kam Hoi Wong
  • Patent number: 7673419
    Abstract: The present specification provides a rear window assembly for a vehicle having a window frame, at least one fixed window panel whose perimeter edge defines a portion of an opening, a movable window panel capable of opening or closing the opening and that is allowed to slidably move past the surface of the fixed window panel, a seal member present on the perimeter surface of at least one of the window panels, and a closure track integrally formed in at least one edge of the window frame. The closure track may force the movable window panel and the fixed window panel closer together, thereby, placing the seal member under compression.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Hi-Lex Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Shigeki Arimoto
  • Patent number: 7673420
    Abstract: A corner bench for a shower is constructed by placing a beam diagonally between adjacent walls of the shower. The ends of the beam are supported on the upwardly facing edges of tile pieces which are attached to the shower walls. The tile pieces are placed on the walls such that their upper edges are horizontal and are coplanar with the top of the beam. A triangular platform is then placed on top of the beam and the upper edges of these tile pieces to create the bench. Tile is then placed on top of the platform and the front of the beam to finish the bench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: Eazy Company, LLC
    Inventor: Greg Madesh
  • Patent number: 7673421
    Abstract: An embodiment of a stucco wall device is configured to provide alignment in uneven wall joints, allow water to drain out of the wall, protect against water infiltration, and permit movement between the two sides of a joint. An embodiment includes two pieces which form a seal and a sloped screed with weep holes for directing water out of and away from the wall. A male leg of the second piece slides between the first piece and the wall, allowing the two pieces to move relative to each other while preserving a seal against water infiltration. Other embodiments include one-piece stucco wall devices which also allow movement between the joint members and are configured to protect against water infiltration into a wall. Portions of a wall device may be adjusted or bowed in order to assist in alignment at an uneven wall joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Donald A. Pilz
  • Patent number: 7673422
    Abstract: A building module has an open-ended box structure and comprises a plurality of interconnected coaxial module segments. Each segment is moulded as an open-ended box structure from a composite material. The segments are held together by elongate tie bars that form part of a lifting frame and extend substantially along the length of the module. The lifting frame comprises end frames that are embedded in end segments of the modules and that are connected to each other by the tie bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Peter William De La Marche
  • Patent number: 7673423
    Abstract: There is provided cladding apparatus comprising a body portion (108) having an inner surface (110) and an outer surface (112) extending longitudinally between a leading edge (114) and a trailing edge (116) and transversely between opposed side edges (118). The leading edge (114) is provided with a formation (124) which inter-engages with complementary formation (126) provided on an adjacent body portion thereby permitting the body portions to inter-engage when laid in a longitudinal sequence. The body portion (108) is provided with a pair of longitudinally extending elongate mounting portions (128) on the inner surface (110) thereof. A longitudinal mounting batten (144) is attached to the fascia panel (106) adjacent to the exposed edge of the tiles (104), and into which the elongate mounting portions (128) may slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: B-Pods Holdings Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Bernhard Podirsky
  • Patent number: 7673424
    Abstract: The invention relates to a mobile structure which is intended for various different uses and purposes and which is of the type that comprises a flat floor chassis with wheels, towing means such that it can be towed by a vehicle and floor support means. The invention is characterized in that the structure comprises: an upper structural shell consisting of two outer frames and at least one intermediate frame, which are connected at the top by lateral and central longitudinal joists, and crossbars forming a plurality of upper cavities which are covered either by laminar sections or skylight elements; and a plurality of independent panels forming the walls of the structure, which are disposed around the structural shell and which can take the form of solid panels or panels comprising a window, a door or an air-conditioning system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Carlo Gomez-EspaƱa Collignon
  • Patent number: 7673425
    Abstract: According to various aspects of the present disclosure, there are provided various exemplary embodiments of covers, systems and methods for covering boards and deck components. In one exemplary embodiment, a cover generally includes an upper portion and generally downwardly extending side portions. The cover's upper and side portions are configured to generally cover at least the top and sides of the outdoor deck component. The cover's side portions may include through-holes to allow venting of moisture from an area between the cover and the outdoor deck component when the cover is positioned on the outdoor deck component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: The Tavy Trust No. 1
    Inventor: Rodney H. Thomas
  • Patent number: 7673426
    Abstract: The present invention is directed towards a window sill flashing comprising a base having a substantially rectangular shape. A front flange projects perpendicularly downward from a front edge of the base and at least one side flange extends vertically from a side edge of the base. The side flange includes a front surface. The window sill flashing is made from a rigid homopolymer vinyl film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Assignee: PNII, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Patrick Broad, Jay K. McDonald
  • Patent number: 7673427
    Abstract: A clamp for use with metal bar joists (or beams) has one or more steel angled bracket members or plates, adapted to fit under the corrugations of a corrugated steel roof. Each plate of the clamp is adapted to sit horizontally across a top of the bar joist perpendicular to the joist, and extend slightly over an edge of the joist. Each plate contains an elongate slot allowing a bolt to be inserted through the slot. A retainer heel clip is secured to an end of each such bolt. This retainer heel clip is tightened to the underside of the top flange of the bar joist using a washer and a threaded plate or nut, thus providing a clamping action. Each clamp has a vertical attachment tongue section of steel welded to it, including one or more elongate slots which complement perforations that occur along the length of a steel framing angle, allowing bolts to attach the clamp and the framing angle together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Douglas H. Morey
  • Patent number: 7673428
    Abstract: A boxable drywall corner trim that can include an elongated semi-rigid member that forms a pair of flanges joined at a grooved hinge along a centerline. Each of the flanges can have a thinner part and a thicker part joined at a step that is approximately parallel to the centerline a predetermined distance from the centerline. The thicker part of the flanges can form a protruding nose member that makes the piece boxable by preventing the cross-over of wet drywall mastic or mud from one flange to the other. The thinner portion of the flange may optionally be perforated with a pattern of punched holes of any configuration throughout the flange assembly. The piece can have a wall-facing paper or other fibrous layer of material that has a tacky adhesive on its wall-facing side. The adhesive can be in a pattern of dots, ridges, lines or any other pattern, or the adhesive can be continuously coated on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2010
    Inventor: Timothy Smythe