Patents Issued in June 1, 2010
  • Patent number: 7726569
    Abstract: An image reading apparatus comprises: a photoelectric converter that converts image data into an electric signal and outputs the image data; a clock controller that generates a plurality of sampling signals having different phases to sample a level of an output signal of the photoelectric converter; a phase determination unit that compares signal levels in a sampling order, each of the signals obtained by sampling, using a respective sampling signal, the output signal of the photoelectric converter, so as to determine an optimum phase of the plurality of the sampling signals when a condition is fulfilled in which an absolute value of a variation between signal levels being compared is less than a threshold value; a storage unit in which the optimum phase is stored; and a sampling unit that samples the output signal of the photoelectric converter using the sampling signal having the optimum phase.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hirofumi Ishii
  • Patent number: 7726570
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a method for producing graphical indicators and interactive systems for utilizing the graphical indicators. On the surface of an object, visually negligible graphical indicators are provided. The graphical indicators and main information, i.e. text or pictures, co-exist on the surface of object. The graphical indicators do not interfere with the main information when the perception of human eyes are concerned. With the graphical indicators, further information other than the main information on the surface of object are carried. In addition to the main information on the surface of object, one is able to obtain additional information through an auxiliary electronic device or trigger an interactive operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Sonix Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yao-Hung Tsai
  • Patent number: 7726571
    Abstract: Described is a system and method for bar code decoding. The system comprises first and second digitizers and a processor. The first digitizer outputs a first digitized representation of a bar code. The second digitizer outputs a second digitized representation of the bar code. The processor compares the first and second digitized representations to yield a set of parameters. The processor selects one of the first and second digitized representations to be decoded as a function of the set of parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Dariusz Madej
  • Patent number: 7726572
    Abstract: A two dimensional symbol is decoded by forming a binary image that includes the symbol. The binary is used to generate symbol margins for use in digitization. By using the binary image to determine the symbol margins, margins can be located efficiently and in the presence of symbol contrast variation caused by irregularities in the marked surface or light source angles. Digitization proceeds based on the determined margins.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Duanfeng He, Eugene Joseph
  • Patent number: 7726573
    Abstract: The disclosed bar code reader includes an auto-focusing component for rapidly producing in focus images. An imaging system makes use of an aiming pattern that impinges upon the coded indicia of a target. The imaging system includes a light monitoring pixel array and a focusing lens that is fixed with respect to the pixel array for transmitting an image of the target object onto the pixel array. The imaging system also includes a movable mirror mounted for movement along a path of travel to reflect light passing through the focusing lens onto the pixel array. A drive motor moves the mirror relative the lens to adjust a focus of an image of the object formed at the pixel array. An automatic focusing component of the imaging system analyzes the aiming pattern reflected from the target object and projected onto the pixel array by the lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Vladimir Gurevich, Igor Vinogradov, Tsi David Shi, Duanfeng He
  • Patent number: 7726574
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems used to reduce the time needed to process images of a bar code or optical code captured by a image bar code scanner. Image bar code scanners read bar codes or optical codes by capturing digital images of the codes using an image capture device and then processing the captured images to decode the optical code or bar code. The processing time is reduced by rotating the images to align the axis of the codes contained in the captured images with the rows of photo detectors in the image capture device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: NCR Corporation
    Inventor: Sik Piu Kwan
  • Patent number: 7726575
    Abstract: There is provided in one embodiment an indicia reading terminal that can execute a spatial measurement mode of operation in which the indicia reading terminal can determine a dimension of an article in a field of view of the indicia reading terminal and/or determine other spatial information. In determining a dimension of an article, an indicia reading terminal can utilize setup data determined in a setup mode of operation and/or data determined utilizing the setup data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Hand Held Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Ynjiun P. Wang, Kevin Ahearn, Stephen P. Deloge, Michael A. Ehrhart, William H. Havens, Robert M. Hussey, Thomas J. Koziol, Jianhua Li, Jingquan Li, James Montoro, Sven M. A. Powilleit
  • Patent number: 7726576
    Abstract: A system that facilitates desirable orientation of a display on a machine data reader comprises a keypad that is moveable with respect to a body of the machine data reader, the keypad utilized to relay information to the machine data reader. The system further comprises a component that senses a position of the keypad, and a component that orients the display based at least in part upon the sensed position of the keypad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Symbol Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Dominick H. Salvato
  • Patent number: 7726577
    Abstract: The present invention aims at providing a contactless card that enables a reader/writer to identify which card such reader/writer is communicating with in a set of card identification processes and that improves the possibility of protecting the cardholder's privacy. Contactless card (200) includes: power detection unit (203); random number ID generation unit (210) that determines an identifier that identifies card (200), every time power detection unit (203) detects that electric power has been supplied; ID storage unit (2081) that holds the determined identifier; sending/receiving circuit (204) that receives a command requesting that the identifier that identifies card (200) should be sent to reader/writer (100), and sending/receiving circuit (204) sends, to reader/writer (100), the determined identifier in the case where the received command is a first-received command, and the held identifier in the case where the received command is a second- or later-received command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Futoshi Nakabe, Eiji Ueda
  • Patent number: 7726578
    Abstract: A card body comprises a first card body (ID-1 card 1), a second card body (plug-in card 2) and a third card body (mini card 3). The first card body has a first shape (ID-1 shape). The second card body comprises a second shape (plug-in shape). The first card body encompasses the second card body. The third card body comprises a third shape (mini shape). The second card body encompasses the third card body. The third card body has a cavity for receiving an electronic module. A first boundary separates the first shape (ID-1 shape) from the second shape (plug-in shape), and comprises a first number of apertures (5, 6, 7, 17, 18) and a first number of notches (19 and 20) defining a first mechanical inter-card body coupling strength (link between ID-1 card 1 and plug-in card 2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Axalto SA
    Inventors: Alexis Froger, Denis Groeninck, Alain Le Loc'h, Dorothée Nerot, Yves Reignoux, Francois Roussel, Stéphane Provost
  • Patent number: 7726579
    Abstract: An IC with a purse is permanently mounted on the main motherboard of a TV and communicates with the main CPU. The purse chip holds electronic funds, and the user can, by means of OSDs, purchase content and services using the funds. The user can replenish the purse from time to time. The purse chip does not contain personal identifying information, so it facilitates transfer of ownership when a TV is sold and anonymous transactions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Brant Candelore, Koichi Oshima
  • Patent number: 7726580
    Abstract: A printed interface for user interaction with a computer system via a sensing device is provided. The interface comprises visible graphical information and coded data readable by the sensing device. The coded data comprises a plurality of substantially undifferentiated marks positioned relative to a predetermined pattern, with an orientation target structure for allowing relative rotation of the predetermined pattern to be determined. The visible graphical information indicates an operation that the user can select and transmit to the computer system by reading the coded data with the sensing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Kia Silverbrook, Paul Lapstun
  • Patent number: 7726581
    Abstract: An HVAC controller may include an upper housing having a front and a back, the back including a center. A lens dial including an engagement portion may be rotatably secured relative to the upper housing. A set point operator may include a first portion that is disposed about the upper housing center as well as a second portion that is adapted to interact with the lens dial engagement portion. A mechanical movement to electrical signal converter such as a potentiometer may be disposed within the HVAC controller such that the first portion of the set point operator communicates with the potentiometer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher Naujok, Rachael Tix, Janis Skujins, Kyle Gudmunson, Bradley Lohrding, Brett R. Johnson, Bruce Frohman, Shaohui Oiu, Micah Somers
  • Patent number: 7726582
    Abstract: A control strategy for supply fans in constant-volume heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems that reduces the speed of the fan at part-load conditions is provided. The invention consists of a constant-volume HVAC system, wireless discharge air temperature sensors, wireless hot source and cold source temperature sensors, and a wireless controller coupled to a fan modulation device. The controller includes a finite state machine that switches between a high-temperature control mode and a low-temperature control mode. The controller also includes a calculator that calculates a high temperature setpoint and a low temperature setpoint as a function of the hot source and cold source temperatures. In high temperature control mode, the controller compares the maximum discharge air temperature with the high temperature setpoint, and it commands the fan modulating device so that the maximum discharge air temperature remains close to the high temperature setpoint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Federspiel Corporation
    Inventor: Clifford Conrad Federspiel
  • Patent number: 7726583
    Abstract: An indoor unit has first, second indoor side terminals to which first, second interconnection lines respectively, are connected at their one end, a third indoor side terminal to which a third interconnection line is connected at its one end, a relay with one end connected to the second indoor side terminal and another end connected to the third indoor side terminal, and a CPU. The outdoor unit has first, second outdoor side terminals as outdoor side power-receiving terminals to which the first, second interconnection lines, respectively, are connected at their other end, a third outdoor side terminal to which the third interconnection line is connected at its other end, and an outdoor control section to which electric power is supplied via the first, third outdoor side terminals. The CPU of the indoor unit turns off the switch part in the standby state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Daikin Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasunori Maekawa
  • Patent number: 7726584
    Abstract: A thermal valve assembly for a transmission is provided. The thermal valve assembly includes a body having a base portion having a plurality of opposing sidewalls extending therefrom. A cover is mounted with respect to the body and operates to at least partially close the body to form a volume. The base portion defines an inlet orifice, while at least one of the plurality of opposing sidewalls at least partially defines an outlet orifice. A plate is operable to selectively close the inlet orifice. A bi-metallic spring member is disposed at least partially within the volume. The bi-metallic spring member is operable to bias the plate against the base portion. Additionally, the bi-metallic spring member has a variable stiffness characteristic responsive to temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Derril A. Loe, Richard F. Olenzek, Todd R. Berger
  • Patent number: 7726585
    Abstract: A chemical distribution system affixes flexible tubing (50) along exterior surfaces (52) of a dwelling (12) and along structures (16) external to the dwelling. The tubing is attached to the exterior surfaces with clamps (54) and exposed for maintenance. The clamps are form-fitted to the tubing. Spray nozzles (58) are inserted into the openings in the tubing for dispensing a chemical solution. The openings can be pre-formed or cut into solid tubing at during installation. A connector (42) has one end coupled to a hose for receiving the chemical solution and another end coupled to the tubing. The fixed distribution system provides for precise and even application of the chemical solution with minimal operator intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Perimicon, LLC
    Inventors: Shane D. Pannell, Michael K. Wrigley
  • Patent number: 7726586
    Abstract: The purpose of the present invention is to provide a rotary atomizing head that paint supplied to an inner peripheral surface is spread on the inner peripheral surface uniformly so as to improve the quality of coating and to lengthen the life of the rotary atomizing head. An inner peripheral surface 67 diametrically expanded from the center of the rotary atomizing head to a peripheral edge 61b is formed and centrifugal force generated by the rotation is applied on the paint supplied to the inner peripheral surface 67 so as to discharge the paint outside atomizingly. A step part 68 is formed at the middle portion of the inner peripheral surface 67 between paint supply holes 65d, supplying paint or solvent to the inner peripheral surface 67, and the peripheral edge 61b of the inner peripheral surface 67.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignees: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha, Trinity Industrial Corporation
    Inventors: Masaru Murai, Makoto Ichimura
  • Patent number: 7726587
    Abstract: An irrigation sprinkler nozzle for use in a rotary sprinkler for projecting the entire fluid stream between about 15 and about 35 feet from the rotary sprinkler regardless of the upstream pressure. The irrigation sprinkler nozzle comprises a nozzle body having a longitudinal axis, a side wall, and an exit wall. Coupled to the nozzle body is a restrictor plate that is spaced from the exit wall. Defined by the side wall, the exit wall, and the restrictor plate is a fluid chamber. The nozzle includes an inlet to the chamber defined by the restrictor plate. Preferably, the inlet has a cross-sectional area so that a pressure inside the chamber is less than a pressure upstream of the inlet. The nozzle also has an outlet from the chamber defined by the exit wall for projecting a fluid stream outwardly from the irrigation sprinkler nozzle. The chamber may be configured to form a turbulent flow within the chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventors: Kevin Markley, James A. Elzey
  • Patent number: 7726588
    Abstract: A locking tensioning mechanism for a miniaturised high pressure generator is disclosed, which mechanism will allow delivery of a set volume of a liquid, and the volume to be delivered by a high pressure generator can be altered subsequently by adjusting one of the stops of the spring component, which locking tensioning mechanism may be used in a high pressure generator for producing an inhalable aerosol or in a needleless injector for injecting a volume of a liquid into animal or plant tissue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Boehringer Ingelheim International GmbH
    Inventors: Gilbert Wuttke, Michael Schyra, Andreas Fiol, Joachim Eicher
  • Patent number: 7726589
    Abstract: A spray gun for applying an electroless plating solution includes a handle, a trigger connected to the handle, a nozzle assembly connected to the handle, a first fluid passage, a second fluid passage, a switch, and a valve assembly. The nozzle assembly includes a first fluid path having a first outlet and a second fluid path having a second outlet. The first fluid passage is in communication with the first outlet of the nozzle. The second fluid passage is in communication with the second outlet of the nozzle. The switch is selectively activated by the trigger upon movement of the trigger. The valve assembly is in fluid communication with the first fluid passage and the second fluid passage. The valve assembly includes a valve and a solenoid. The valve is operable between an open position and a closed position. The solenoid is in electrical communication with the switch and an associated power source. The switch controls the delivery of power to the solenoid and the solenoid operates the valve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Georgio Roumanis
  • Patent number: 7726590
    Abstract: An improved fuel injection spray director plate including conically chamfered entries to the flow passages through the plate. The conical chamfer may extend part way or all the way through the plate. In a currently preferred embodiment, the chamfer extends only part way through the plate, and the remaining cylindrical portion of the passage provides desirable directional capability for the spray. Preferably, the conical chamfer axis forms an angle with the cylindrical portion axis. Preferably, a flow passage is positioned in the director plate such that the main flow direction of fuel exiting the fuel injector valve is received into the chamfer of the passage. Preferably, a second conical portion is formed in the passage between the first conical portion and the cylindrical portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul S. Von Bacho, III, Julie M. Galante-Fox, Sudhakar Das
  • Patent number: 7726591
    Abstract: A rotor processor includes a stator chamber and a rotor mounted for rotation within the chamber. The rotor has a perimeter edge spaced closely to the interior wall of the chamber so as to define a slit or gap there between. The rotor is slidably mounted upon a rotor shaft, for movement between raised and lowered positions during operation of the processor, so as to automatically adjust the dimension of the slit, without operator intervention. As air flows from a plenum beneath the rotor, through the slit, and into the chamber, a pressure differential is created, which provides a lifting force to raise the rotor. The pressure drop is maintained relatively constant at a predetermined level after a lifting equilibrium force is achieved, regardless of the air flow volume.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Vector Corporation
    Inventor: Aaron K. Basten
  • Patent number: 7726592
    Abstract: The present invention relates to processes for enhancing a refiner's production rate and/or reducing the specific energy consumption for a freeness target through the use of lubricant(s) or carrier(s)/frictionizer(s), respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Hercules Incorporated
    Inventors: Eric Oswaldo Fernandez, Mark Edward Laurint
  • Patent number: 7726593
    Abstract: The device for the disposal of sanitary waste consists of a fixed drum-type container (20) with a horizontal central axis (MA) and with inlet pipes for dosed wash liquid (WF), for sanitary liquid (HF) and for dosed chemicals (CH), whereby a discharge duct (65) for the carrying-off of the comminuted sanitary waste interspersed with wash liquid from the bottom area of the container (20) is provided in the bottom area of the container (20), in the inner space (27) of which a knife disk (30) which can be rotatably driven is placed in the area of one of its both vertical front walls (21; 22) with shearing knives (31) turned to the inner space (27) of the container (20), whereby an ascendingly guided compressor screw (60) follows the conveyor screw (65), compressor screw which forms with a shear sieve sheet (70) a functional unit for separating the comminuted sanitary waste containing solid components from the wash liquid (WF) with the constituents of the sanitary waste which are dissolved therein and the wash liqu
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Teeuwen Prä{umlaut over ( )}zisions GmbH
    Inventor: Werner Heidel
  • Patent number: 7726594
    Abstract: A multi-functional tool assembly for a material processing machine includes a single tool including a head and a shaft integrally formed therein. The head has a cavity with an arcuate surface. The multi-functional tool assembly also includes a material reducer adapted to reduce material within the waste processing machine. The material reducer is disposed in the cavity and has an arcuate surface complementary to the arcuate surface of the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Leward Nile Smith
  • Patent number: 7726595
    Abstract: A pepper mill includes a receiving unit defining a receiving space, a grinding unit disposed at one end of the receiving space, and a stop unit dividing the receiving space into first and second space portions that are respectively distal from and proximate to the grinding unit. The stop unit is formed with a passage to permit peppercorns in the first space portion to fall into the grinding unit so as to be ground thereby through the second space portion when the pepper mill is disposed at a dispensing position, and is configured to stop a portion of residual ground pepper in the second space portion from reaching the first space portion via the passage when the pepper mill is disposed at a non-dispensing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Yienn Lih Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ming-Fong Wu
  • Patent number: 7726596
    Abstract: A fibrous slurry refiner includes a casing, a rotor secured to a rotor shaft, and first and second pluralities of grinding surfaces. The rotor is disposed within the casing and is rotatable via the rotor shaft. The first plurality of grinding surfaces is secured to the rotor, and the second plurality of grinding surfaces is disposed facing the first plurality of grinding surfaces and fixed in the casing. An inlet plate for each of the plurality of grinding surfaces directs the fibrous slurry toward a set of facing first and second grinding surfaces and imparts a rotary flow to the fibrous slurry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Andritz Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Kraft, Julie Ruch
  • Patent number: 7726597
    Abstract: An improved vertical shaft impactor rock crusher is provided. The improvement comprises an anvil having a front impact surface, a planar rear surface and a side surface extending between the front and rear surfaces. A shaft extends from the rear surface and can have a polygonal shaped cam lobe at the end of the shaft. When seated in the slot of a hanger bracket, the cam lobe keeps the anvil secured to the bracket while a side of the cam lobe rests on a seating block attached to the bracket to hold the anvil in an indexed position. When the impact surface becomes worn from use in the rock crusher, the anvil can be rotated within the bracket so that the cam lobe rests on an adjacent side thereby presenting an unworn surface to fracture feed rock in the rock crusher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Amsco Cast Products (Canada) Inc.
    Inventor: Neil Douglas Bentley
  • Patent number: 7726598
    Abstract: The unwinding device comprises: a rotating element (3) with supports (13, 15) for at least two reels (B1; B2; B3); a splicing member (31, 33, 35) to join a first web material (N1) coming from an expiring reel (B1) to the initial free end (T) of a second web material (N2) wound on a new reel (B2). At least one mechanical member (21) is associated with each support (13; 15), to retain the initial free end (T) of the reel disposed on the support, to hold the initial free end until splicing of the two web materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Fabio Perini S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alessandro Morelli, Mauro Gelli
  • Patent number: 7726599
    Abstract: A sheet material dispenser includes a controller for automatically controlling the lengths of sheet materials dispensed from a continuous roll by identifying the type of sheet materials on the roll and dispensing suitable lengths of the identified sheet material. The dispenser desirably has a support for rotatably supporting a roll of sheet material carrying identification relating to the type of sheet material on the roll, and an identifier positioned in or adjacent the dispenser for identifying the type of sheet material on the roll. A processor receives data from the identifier, processes the data and generates an output command, and a controller controls the lengths of sheet material dispensed from the roll in response to the output command. In this way, more absorbent products may be dispensed in shorter lengths and less absorbent products may be dispensed in longer lengths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard Paul Lewis, Paul Francis Tramontina, David W. Kapiloff, Stephen L. Phelps, Darrell R. Johnson, Gerald L. Clark
  • Patent number: 7726600
    Abstract: The present invention provides a stretch film dispenser, which includes a base, a reel device, and a brake device. The reel device has a reel and a connecting member pivotally connected to the base, and the brake device is connected to the base and is fitted to the connecting member of the reel device. The base and the brake device form a holding member of the stretch film dispenser to be grasped by an operator. The present invention further provides a second reel to be fitted to the reel of the reel dispenser to dispense the stretch film rolls with different core diameter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Harrison Huang
  • Patent number: 7726601
    Abstract: A system for affecting a local parameter, the system comprising a sunlight radiation reflecting surface, and a propulsion mechanism, the propulsion mechanism being adapted to move the reflecting surface to a predetermined position being chosen based on the effect of the system on said local parameter at the position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Bruno Hershkovitz
  • Patent number: 7726602
    Abstract: Arrangement for mounting a propulsive system on an aircraft airframe by an external pylon which connects the engine with the airframe, the pylon 4comprising a plurality of spars intruding into the airframe and units for attaching the spars to the internal airframe structure, the cited units being dampers, shock absorbers or active actuators with characteristics chosen so that the units are particularly suited for the efficient reduction of attachment and internal dynamic loads arising mainly but not only from hard landing events and aircraft flight manoeuvres, and for damping sustained vibrations of the propulsive system-airframe assembly, the arrangement allowing the easy removal of the pylon 4 from the rest of the airframe and the interchangeability of the pylon 4 between different aircrafts, being also the cited arrangement tolerant to damage or complete failure of at least one of the spars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus Espana, S.L.
    Inventor: Raúl Carlos Llamas Sandín
  • Patent number: 7726603
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sandwich-structure flat active actuator that is symmetrical relative to the mid-plane comprising at least one piezoelectric flat layer having an active direction superpose and fixedly attached to at least one passive flat layer of fabric with rigid warp and weft oriented in two directions forming a mesh; the two directions of each layer of fabric are the same. The active direction of each piezoelectric layer is oriented along one and the same diagonal of the mesh of the layers of fabric. The invention is also aimed at a device consisting of two actuators mounted head-to-tail. The invention applies to the active torsion of structures such as, for example, a helicopter blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: ONERA (Office National d'Etudes et de Recherches Aerospatiales)
    Inventors: Hugues Mercier Des Rochettes, Léon Buchaniek, Didier Joly
  • Patent number: 7726604
    Abstract: A roll-on/roll-off, aircraft-borne sensor pod deployment system having an operator station and a sensor pallet system and method of using same. The operator station has a base platform, a shelter box mounted on the base platform for accommodating a human operator, and a computer installed inside the shelter box. The sensor pallet system has a base platform, a linear system mounted on the base platform, a rotational system mounted on the linear system, a mechanical arm attached to the rotational system, a sensor pod attached to the mechanical arm, and an electrical control system that provides power to the deployment system and controls movements of the sensor pallet system. In operation, the sensor pod can be retracted into a compact, stowing position, or extended out an opening in the aircraft for an unobstructed field of view. The deployment system optionally includes an apparatus and method for sealing the aircraft opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: West Virginia University
    Inventors: James E. Smith, Roy S. Nutter, Jr., Gregory J. Thompson, Zenovy S. Wowczuk, Gerald M. Angle, II
  • Patent number: 7726605
    Abstract: A roll-on/roll-off, aircraft-borne sensor pod deployment system having an operator station and a sensor pallet system and method of using same. The operator station has a base platform, a shelter box mounted on the base platform for accommodating a human operator, and a computer installed inside the shelter box. The sensor pallet system has a base platform, a linear system mounted on the base platform, a rotational system mounted on the linear system, a mechanical arm attached to the rotational system, a sensor pod attached to the mechanical arm, and an electrical control system that provides power to the deployment system and controls movements of the sensor pallet system. In operation, the sensor pod can be retracted into a compact, stowing position, or extended out an opening in the aircraft for an unobstructed field of view. The deployment system optionally includes an apparatus and method for sealing the aircraft opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: West Virginia University
    Inventors: James E. Smith, Roy S. Nutter, Jr., Gregory J. Thompson, Zenovy S. Wowczuk, Gerald M. Angle, II
  • Patent number: 7726606
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lowerable luggage compartment (10), in particular for a passenger aircraft, having a pneumatic pressure spring (16) connected to the luggage compartment. In order to be able to latch the luggage compartment (10) in an elegant manner in its closed position, the pneumatic pressure spring (16) is a rigidly blockable pneumatic pressure spring with an externally controllable valve for selectively opening or shutting off the hydraulic system of the pneumatic pressure spring, and the hydraulic system of the pneumatic pressure spring (16) is shut off by means of the valve in the closed position of the luggage compartment (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Oleg Graf, Ralf Poberschnigg
  • Patent number: 7726607
    Abstract: A flight passenger seat for an airplane. The flight passenger seat may comprise a back element, a seat element and an arm rest. The seat element, back element, and arm rest may be pivotable. Reset elements for an automatic pivoting may be integrated into the back element and the seat element in such a way that they occupy as little traffic area space as possible. In an advantageous manner, this allows for an enlargement of a traffic area in an airplane and thereby may effectuate a reduction of a “turn around” time of an airplane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Schumacher, Andrew Muin
  • Patent number: 7726608
    Abstract: Device to reduce the lateral force generated by an aerial refueling boom (11) of an aircraft characterized in that it has at least one plate (31), the plate (31) has two cantilevered wings (32, 33), the wings (32, 33) have perforations (34), so that the wake produced in the boom (11) has a lower dynamic pressure than that of the free stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: EADS Construcciones Aeronauticas
    Inventors: Luis Pablo Ruiz Calavera, Francisco Javier Mariscal Sanchez
  • Patent number: 7726609
    Abstract: Aircraft exhaust systems and methods are disclosed. In one embodiment, an integrated propulsion assembly includes a wing assembly having an upper surface and a lower surface, and a propulsion unit at least partially disposed within the wing assembly. An exhaust system is configured to conduct an exhaust flow emanating from the propulsion unit to an exhaust aperture. The exhaust aperture is positioned proximate a trailing edge of the wing assembly, and has an aspect ratio of at least five. In further embodiments, the wing assembly includes a flap member moveably coupled along a trailing edge portion of the wing assembly, and the exhaust aperture is configured to direct the exhaust flow over at least a portion of the flap member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Arvin Shmilovich, Yoram Yadlin, Roger W. Clark
  • Patent number: 7726610
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing differential motion to wing high lift devices are disclosed. A system in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes a wing having a leading edge, a trailing edge, a first deployable lift device with a first spanwise location, and a second deployable lift device with a second spanwise location different than the first. The wing system can further include a drive system having a drive link operatively coupleable to both the first and second deployable lift devices, and a control system operatively coupled to the drive system. The control system can have a first configuration for which the drive link is operatively coupled to the first and second deployable lift devices, and activation of at least a portion of the drive link moves the first and second deployable lift devices together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Mark S. Good, Paul M. Vijgen, Seth E. Gitnes, Glynn Michael Thomas
  • Patent number: 7726611
    Abstract: A rudder pedal mechanism is configured with foreign object strike tolerance and/or with an articulating brake. The foreign object strike tolerance is implemented via a force transfer mechanism that is responsive to an input force supplied to the rudder pedal. The force transfer mechanism is configured to supply a transfer force to a rudder position command unit when the input force is supplied in a first direction, and to not supply the transfer force to the rudder position command unit when the input force is supplied in the second direction and exceeds at least a predetermined force magnitude. The articulating brake is implemented via a brake rod assembly that is rotationally coupled to the rudder pedal, and includes a first rod that is rotationally coupled to the rudder pedal, and a second rod that surrounds at least a portion of the first rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Donald J. Christensen, Casey Hanlon
  • Patent number: 7726612
    Abstract: A method and apparatus is shown to allow an integrated expanded control capability of digital locomotives on model railroad layouts that also permit compatible speed and direction operation simultaneously for non-digital or conventional locomotives alongside. The improvements employ mixed-mode control encoding and decoding algorithms and methods that are expanded beyond the prior art for control mode changes used on model railroad layouts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Anthony J. Ireland
  • Patent number: 7726613
    Abstract: A water blast gun support apparatus and methods for enabling the operator to direct the gun by a joystick attached to a pneumatic sinusoidal biasing control unit. Depending upon the direction the joystick is pointed by the operator, a controlled flow of air is delivered to pneumatic motion producing actuators which move the water blast gun to the desired position and maintain this position when the operator moves the joystick to its neutral position. The support apparatus absorbs the thrust of the water so that the operator is relieved from having to physically counter the force of the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Park Technologies, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Timothy A. Burnier, George E. Radcliffe, Steven C. Bast
  • Patent number: 7726614
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a clamp-type holder (1) and a clamp-type holder element (2) for it, wherein the clamp-type holder element (2) comprises a mouth-shaped clamping region (5) and a holding region (6) for the attachment of a component, wherein the clamp-type holder system (1) comprises two clamp-type holder elements (2) that are interconnected by way of a connecting device (9) in order to be able to be clamped to profile beams (3) of different thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventor: Robert Redecker
  • Patent number: 7726615
    Abstract: Disclosed is an improved shelf system which is characterized by the following features: an anchoring pot is provided which can be inserted in a fixed and captive manner into a corresponding bore of a shelf bottom, said bore facing the shelf bottom support; a slot opening and a screw path for a locking screw, which is offset relative thereto and runs diagonally, are provided in the anchoring pot; a portion of an anchoring section that is part of the shelf bottom support can be inserted into the slot; and the locking screw can be twisted in such a way that the shelf bottom support is directly or indirectly fixed at least in a non-positive and preferably a positive fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Steelcase Werndl AG
    Inventor: Josef Rutz
  • Patent number: 7726616
    Abstract: A support stand for a flat-panel display monitor includes a mounting base, a connecting base, and two link shafts. Each link shaft has a first end rotatably connected to the mounting base and a second end rotatably connected to the connecting base. The support stand further includes a restricting pole fixed to the mounting base and positioned between the two link shafts, the restricting pole abuts against the two link shafts, thus restricting a rotary range of the two link shafts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (ShenZhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Han-Zheng Zhang, Jin-Xin Wang, Xiao-Bo Li
  • Patent number: 7726617
    Abstract: A television mounting system is disclosed. It includes a wall plate adapted to be secured to a wall and a monitor plate mountable on the wall plate. Expansion plates may be secured at selected locations on the monitor plate to accommodate mounting of various sizes of display screens, such as flat panel televisions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Assignee: Bell'O International Corp.
    Inventors: Michael P. Zambelli, Jimmy An, In-Young Jang, Steven J. Sculler
  • Patent number: 7726618
    Abstract: The invention includes a mount with a knob including a shaft extending therefrom. A two piece socket housing defines a socket therebetween. The two piece socket has a portion formed as a first clamp element. A ball member is disposed in the socket and includes a slot and an attachment structure. A second clamp element has a connector, preferably an internally threaded nut captured therein. The shaft passes through a first portion of the two piece socket, the slot of the ball member, a second portion the two piece socket and terminates in the second clamp element, such that when the knob is manipulated, the two piece socket fixes the ball member in position and a clamping force is generated between the first clamp element and the second clamp element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: G. Daniel Pedemonte