Patents Issued in February 22, 2011
  • Patent number: 7891074
    Abstract: A bar connecting apparatus applies clips to connect transverse bars used in reinforced concrete. A clip string is fed into the bar connecting apparatus by a clip feed assembly, so several pairs of transverse bars can be connected in rapid succession. A hammer reciprocates in the barrel of the bar connecting apparatus, and drives a clip from the barrel into engagement with the bars. An alignment head aligns the bar connecting apparatus with the transverse bars so the clips properly engage the bars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Kodi Klip Corporation
    Inventor: Jon R. Kodi
  • Patent number: 7891075
    Abstract: A reconfigurable fixture device system, including: a base member; a reconfigurable pad disposed on the base member, wherein the reconfigurable pad comprises a shape memory material configured to selectively conform to a surface contour of a workpiece; an activation device in operative communication with the shape memory material; a controller in operable communication with at least one of the reconfigurable pad, the activation device, and the base member; a plurality of sensors for sensing a parameter associated with at least one of the reconfigurable pad, the base member, the fixture device, and the workpiece, wherein the plurality of sensors is in operable communication with the controller; and an actuator in operable communication with the controller and the at least one of the reconfigurable pad, the base member, the fixture device, and the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Nilesh D. Mankame, James W. Wells, Christopher P. Henry, Ivan G. Sears, Douglas M. Linn, Alan L. Browne, Richard J. Skurkis
  • Patent number: 7891076
    Abstract: The process provides an expandable chuck with a variable diameter bulb having a variable wall thickness, the chuck being operatively designed to stretch the bulb to reduce its diameter for insertion into a photoreceptor pipe and upon relaxation to the compress the bulb so as to increase its diameter. The design provides a universal chuck to reduce the cost of changing to different diameter chucks in accommodating different size photoreceptors during the coating and drying process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventor: Peter J. Schmitt
  • Patent number: 7891077
    Abstract: A method of preparing a polymer actuator includes providing an ionic conductive polymer membrane; forming first and second metal electrodes respectively over first and second surfaces of the ionic conductive polymer membrane; substituting water used in the formation of the first and second metal electrodes with an ionic liquid stable to an electrolysis; and coating the first and second surfaces of the metal electrodes with a coating material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Hyung Kun Lee, Nak Jin Choi, Kang Ho Park, Jong Dae Kim
  • Patent number: 7891078
    Abstract: A method of improving efficiency of manufacturing a vacuum electronic device, includes placing sensors on the device's interior during its construction and obtaining a first measured characteristic value; comparing the first measured characteristic value with a desired characteristic value; determining whether the first measured characteristic value is within a predetermined percentage of the desired characteristic value; adjusting a component of the device and measuring the characteristic of the device to obtain a second measured characteristic, comparing the second measured characteristic value with a desired characteristic value, determining whether the second measured characteristic value is within a predetermined percentage of the desired characteristic value; and repeating the previous step until the second measured characteristic value is within the predetermined percentage of the desired characteristic value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Ayax D. Ramirez, Stephen D. Russell
  • Patent number: 7891079
    Abstract: A bending apparatus of a head gimbal assembly includes a suction unit configured to attract the head gimbal assembly, a movement unit configured to move a long tail connected to a terminal part, a stopper against which the moved long tail is butted, a transmission type optical sensor configured to detect that the long tail is positioned to the stopper, a tail holder configured to hold a part of the long tail on a work table, a roller configured to compress the terminal part against the tail holder and to bend the terminal part relative to the long tail at a right angle, and a controller configured to control, based on a detection result of the transmission type optical sensor, a movement of the tail holder to the work table and a movement of the roller to the tail holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Toshiba Storage Device Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nozawa, Yukio Kato
  • Patent number: 7891080
    Abstract: A method for detecting head-disc contact is disclosed. The method comprises locating a head including a head positioning microactuator and at least one of a read transducer and a write transducer adjacent to a disc such that the head is in communication with the disc, monitoring an output signal from the head positioning microactuator of the head, and evaluating the output signal to determine if the head contacts the disc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Seagate Technology LLC
    Inventors: James C. Alexander, Jason H. Laks
  • Patent number: 7891081
    Abstract: A process is described for the fabrication of a magnetic read head in which contact between the pinned layer and the AFM is limited to their edges. The principal steps are to deposit an antiferromagnetic layer and to then pattern it into a pair of antiferromagnetic layers separated by no more than about 2 microns. A layer of magnetic material that lies between, and is in contact with, said antiferromagnetic layers is then deposited, following which the layer of magnetic material is magnetized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Headway Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Glen Garfunkel
  • Patent number: 7891082
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a coil assembly unit comprises steps of coil forming, weaving, compressing steps. In the forming step, each coil wire is formed which provides linear portions and turn portions each connecting linear portions, during which bent portions are formed at both ends of each linear portion, the bent portions being bent so that mutually adjacent linear portions are deviated from each other. In the weaving step, the coil wires are mutually woven in turn, in which the turn portions intersect in turn. All the coil wires are subjected to the weaving step in turn to produce a woven coil assembly. In the compressing step, the woven coil assembly is compressed by compressing the woven coil so that each bent portion is deformed to be linear to allow the mutually adjacent linear portions to come closer to each other, thus producing the coil assembly unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Akito Akimoto
  • Patent number: 7891083
    Abstract: An assembling apparatus is disclosed. The assembling apparatus includes a base, an assembling platform, and a driving part. The assembling platform and the driving part are fixed on the base. The assembling platform defines a receiving space for receiving a semiconductor chip module, a lever chamber for receiving clips of the semiconductor chip module, and a driving groove for connecting the receiving space and the lever chamber. The assembling platform further includes a lever bar removably placed in the lever chamber for expanding the clips. The driving part includes driving shafts. An end of each of the driving shafts is in the driving groove and is movable to pass through the lever chamber and reaches the receiving space. The assembling apparatus is used to assemble a semiconductor chip module conveniently and safely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignees: Hong Fu Jin Precision Industry (Shen Zhen) Co., Ltd., Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chun-Chi Tsai, Jian-Hua Xiang, Yao-Zhong Chen
  • Patent number: 7891084
    Abstract: A device for extracting a tool holder from a base block mounting has a front plate and a pair of rearwardly extending arms contacting the base block mounting. An extraction nut has at least two parallel threaded holes therein. A threaded stud is threaded into one of the threaded holes and the length extends through a hole in the front plate and through the tool holder and is retained by a nut. An extraction bolt is threaded through the second threaded hole of the extraction nut with the distal end engaging the front plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: The Sollami Company
    Inventor: Phillip A. Sollami
  • Patent number: 7891085
    Abstract: A lead assembly and a method of making a lead are provided. The method of making a multi-contact lead assembly comprises providing conductive contacts located at an end of a lead body, disposing conductive wires in conductor lumens formed in the lead body, and connecting the conductive wires to the conductive contacts. The method further includes placing spacers between pairs of conductive contacts and inserting monofilament in at least a portion of at least one of the conductor lumens not occupied by the conductor wires. The method also includes reflowing at least one of the spacers or monofilament into at least one portion of at least one of the conductor lumens by heating the spacers and monofilament to a temperature to cause thermal flow or melting of at least one of the spacers or monofilament.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Neuromodulation Corporation
    Inventors: Janusz A Kuzma, Anne M Pianca
  • Patent number: 7891086
    Abstract: A method for stringing a first elongate element through a second elongate element is provided by placing the first elongate element in a channel and injecting compressed gas into the channel to propel the first elongate element therethrough. The channel has a first open end, and the second elongate element is sealed around the first open end. Compressed gas is injected into the channel towards the second elongate element, propelling the first elongate element through the second elongate element. Also disclosed is a system for performing such a method, including a source of compressed gas and a housing having a channel with a first end and a second open end. The first end is in fluid communication with the source of compressed gas. The channel has a tapered portion adjacent the open end of the channel, and the channel defines a straight longitudinal axis between the first end and the second open end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Cardiac Pacemakers, Inc.
    Inventors: Edgardo Ortiz Negron, Victor Torres Serrano
  • Patent number: 7891087
    Abstract: Disclosed are a method for connecting a bus bar of a capacitor, improving temperature characteristics and reliability of the capacitor by reducing inductance and impedance such that heat generation is restrained during use of the capacitor, and a product fabricated by the same. A pair of bus bars are insulatedly connected to sprayed surfaces on both sides of a plurality of capacitor devices, in such a manner that lead frames arranged alternately on a first bus bar are connected in contact with the sprayed surfaces facing in a diagonal direction, of neighboring capacitor devices. Other lead frames arranged alternately on a second bus bar are connected to the sprayed surfaces facing in another diagonal direction across the above diagonal direction in an X-shape. Then, the pair of bus bars are assembled to be insulated from each other and overlapped at one side of the capacitor device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Nuintek Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Chang Hoon Yang, Dae Jin Park, Yong Won Jun, Chang Geun Park, Yun Rak Kim
  • Patent number: 7891088
    Abstract: Embodiments provide a method of running cables from an already-installed cable duct to devices. According to the method, a portion of a duct from which it is desirable for cable to be dropped is selected upon consideration of a first location of a first device to which a connection is desired. The method also includes punching a first aperture in the duct proximate the first portion, snaking a first cable from the duct through the first aperture, and connecting the first cable to the first device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.
    Inventors: Doug Robinett, Todd Daugherty
  • Patent number: 7891089
    Abstract: A printed circuit board according to the present invention is a printed circuit board (4) including a component mounting pin (1) made of a metal wire to connect with a semiconductor chip (10). The semiconductor chip (10) is a surface mounting type semiconductor chip having an electrode pad on its mounting surface for use in a flip-chip mounting system. The component mounting pin (1) is formed by using wire-bonding technology. This printed circuit board (4) is able to decrease malconnections or disconnection caused by a difference between the coefficients of thermal expansion of the semiconductor chip (10) and the printed circuit board (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Ibiden Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Kariya, Toshiki Furutani, Takeshi Kawanishi
  • Patent number: 7891090
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing an interposer including a body and a plurality of probes connected to said body is disclosed. The method includes a step of manufacturing said body including the sub-steps of preparing a first substrate having one surface side and the other surface side and being capable of being processed by dry etching, forming a plurality of through holes in said first substrate by dry etching, and making said through holes into conductive holes capable of conducting electricity through a bottom-up fill process. The method also includes a step of manufacturing said plurality of probes and connecting the ends of said plurality of conductive holes on one surface side of said first substrate and a plurality of first probes on said second substrate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Tokyo Electron Limited
    Inventors: Masami Yakabe, Tomohisa Hoshino
  • Patent number: 7891091
    Abstract: A method of enabling selective area plating on a substrate (201) includes forming a first electrically conductive layer (310) on the substrate, covering the electrically conductive layer with an anti-electroless plating layer (410), patterning the substrate in order to form therein a feature (510, 520) extending through the anti-electroless plating layer and the first electrically conductive layer, forming a second electrically conductive layer (610) adjoining and electrically connected to the first electrically conductive layer, forming a third electrically conductive layer (710) over the second electrically conductive layer, and removing the anti-electroless plating layer and the first electrically conductive layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventors: Yonggang Li, Islam Salama
  • Patent number: 7891092
    Abstract: A multi-rate torsional coupling (20) features parallel first and second drive connections (82 and 84) between input (24) and output (22) members. The first drive connection (82) extends through a first resilient coupling (38), and the second drive connection (84) extends through a second resilient coupling (40). An angular play coupling (70) engages the second drive connection (84) at a particular torque load for transmitting additional torque through the torsional coupling (20) at a higher spring rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Paul J. Balczun
  • Patent number: 7891093
    Abstract: An inkjet head includes a channel unit and actuator units. Inside the channel unit, individual ink channels are formed so that ink supplied from ink inlets is ejected from nozzles via pressure chambers. The actuator units are bonded to the upper surface of the channel unit. The actuator units have a configuration of four piezoelectric sheets laminated to one another. On the upper surface of the piezoelectric sheet, individual electrodes are disposed in positions opposed to the pressure chambers respectively. A FPC for supplying driving signals to the actuator units is connected to the individual electrodes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Manabu Hibi
  • Patent number: 7891094
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a hollow body having an external surface randomly provided with a large number of depressions is provided. The method includes providing the large number of depressions on the external surface of the hollow body. A profile curve of the external surface in a circumferential direction is obtained while rotating the hollow body. A frequency analysis is performed on the obtained profile curve. A quality of the hollow body is judged by comparing a result of the frequency analysis with a predetermined judgment standard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Ricoh Company, Ltd.
    Inventors: Tsuyoshi Imamura, Kyohta Koetsuka, Yoshiyuki Takano, Masayuki Ohsawa, Hiroya Abe, Mieko Terashima, Noriyuki Kamiya, Masaki Watanabe, Shigeharu Nakamura
  • Patent number: 7891095
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a novel method of producing in one and the same operation precious hallmarked precious metal products. The method is particularly suited for production of such precious metal products, i.e. jewelry and objets d'art, which have complex geometries. The basic principle of the invention is the use of the free form fabrication FFF, method known per se which involve a stepwise build-up in layers of the product from a precious-metal-containing metal powder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: EOS GmbH Electro Optical Systems
    Inventors: Christer Jonsson, Towe Norlén, Lena Thorsson, Björn Eklund
  • Patent number: 7891096
    Abstract: Provided is a method for reinforcing a foam material in which a working region is first prescribed. A gap that at least partially encloses the prescribed working region in a two-dimensional manner is created in the foam material. A strut is introduced into the foam material, extending from an entry surface of the foam material from outside the working region to at least the fibrous sheet-like material. From a further aspect, a sandwich component with a core which comprises a foam material is provided. A fibrous sheet-like material arranged in the foam material at least partially encloses a working region of the sandwich component in a sheet-like manner. At least one strut is incorporated in the foam material and extends from an entry surface of the foam material from outside the working region to at least the fibrous sheet-like material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Jürgen Weber, Gregor Christian Endres
  • Patent number: 7891097
    Abstract: A cutting tool for cutting the armor includes a cutter body having first and bottom entry walls defining a channel for receiving an armored cable. There is a slot in the first wall that affords reciprocating entry into the channel of a movable cutting blade from the outside of the wall. The direction of translation into the channel defines a blade insertion direction. The slot defines a slot segment of the first wall which in turn defines a base line. A stopper is mounted on the cutter body opposite the slot on the inside of the first wall. The stopper moves toward and away from the first wall to engage an armored cable placed in the channel and releasably press the armored cable against the slot segment of the first wall. The distance in the blade insertion direction of the bottom entry wall from the base line increases as the longitudinal distance from the slot segment increases to impart a curved configuration to the channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: IDEAL Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Bruce W. Hartranft
  • Patent number: 7891098
    Abstract: A knife is described that is capable of extending a blade from a front end of the blade, and subsequently retracting the blade into the body of the knife. Actuation of the blade from extended to retracted conditions is accomplished by way of an actuation element located external to the knife. A user may strike the knife backwards onto a work surface to extend the blade and, subsequently, to retract the blade. The same action by the user may be used to achieve the extended and the retracted blade condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Alltrade Tools LLC
    Inventors: Harold Parker, Hector Hernandez
  • Patent number: 7891099
    Abstract: A damped guiding unit for a portable implement includes a connection element arranged at one end of a guide rod element, for connection of a tool element for the sawing, cutting and/or scything of undergrowth or of grass. A damping element is arranged on the connection element for the damping of oscillations or vibrations caused by the tool element. A holding element is arranged on the guide rod element for holding the portable implement. The holding element and the connection element are structural elements which are respectively separated from each other in that the holding element is associated with a first assembly and the connection element is associated with a further assembly separated from the first assembly. The holding element is further arranged at a distance from the connection element between the one end and the other end of the guide rod element, so that both a direct guiding of the portable implement and also an intensive vibration damping of the holding element is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Dolmar GmbH
    Inventor: Matthias Wenckel
  • Patent number: 7891100
    Abstract: A system for opening encased articles has a cutting apparatus that includes a channel formed from spaced-apart parallel walls. A cutting member having a cutting edge extends from one wall into the channel. A protrusion disposed in the channel at least partially overlaps and at least partially obstructs the cutting member. The channel is adapted for receiving the flanged edge of the article and the protrusion is displaceable to expose the cutting edge of the cutting member. A system further has the cutting apparatus juxtaposed with a container for storing at least one encased article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: MeadWestvaco Corporation
    Inventors: John A. Gelardi, William R Rigby
  • Patent number: 7891101
    Abstract: A powered jamb saw is provided which is ideally suited for making corner cuts. A cylindrical housing for the shaft of the circular saw blade is mounted in a split bushing tensioned by a threaded bolt secured to and for rotation by a handle positioned so as to permit the workman to use both hands to position the jamb saw during its use in making cuts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Michael L. Brady
  • Patent number: 7891102
    Abstract: A nanowire magnetic sensor and position sensor for determining the position of a magnetic object and direction of magnetic field is disclosed herein. The magnetic compass includes a number of magnetic nanosensor printed on a flexible substrate, which covers 360-degree angle at equal intervals. Each magnetic nanosensor generally includes magneto-resistive nanowires with high magnetic sensitivity printed in sets e.g. of ten on the flexible substrate. The flexible substrate can also be bent to form a circular configuration to detect the azimuth direction of the magnetic field. The individual nanosensors can be connected into resistive Wheatstone bridge configurations by metalization. The magnetic nanosensors can be utilized as a position sensor of a magnetic object for position determination. Additional electronics can also be mounted or printed on the flexible substrate from other type of nanowires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventor: Andrzej Peczalski
  • Patent number: 7891103
    Abstract: A parameter related to the Earth's magnetic field can be used to determine accuracy of a magnetometer of a mobile device. In one aspect, a first instance of a parameter related to Earth's magnetic field is determined using data generated by the magnetometer. The magnetometer data can be based in part on a position of the mobile device with respect to the Earth. A second instance of the parameter can be determined using data generated by a model of Earth's magnetic field. The model data can also be based in part on the position of the mobile device with respect to the Earth. The first instance of the parameter can be compared with the second instance of the parameter. An accuracy metric for the magnetometer can be determined based on a result of the comparison. An indication of the accuracy metric can be presented by the mobile device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Mayor, Patrick Piemonte, Ronald Keryuan Huang, Parin Patel
  • Patent number: 7891104
    Abstract: In a method and an engagement sensor device for engagement measurement for a machine tool for processing workpieces using tools or a laser the machine tool possesses a clamping device with a clamping face for clamping an object, in particular a tool or a workpiece and the engagement sensor device is provided for the measurement or engagement of a face of clamped object at the clamping face or any gap between the face of the clamped object and the clamping face. The sensor device comprises at least one engagement sensor, arranged to the side of the clamping face, with a measurement range aligned in the direction of the gap or of the clamping face for the detection of an electrical or magnetic stimulation field, such field extending between the face of clamped object and the clamping face and being able to be influenced by any gap, the measurement range extending essentially along the clamping face in accordance with a depth direction of any gap or parallel to the clamping face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Alfing Kessler Sondermaschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Ralf Muellner
  • Patent number: 7891105
    Abstract: A putter fitting device (1) having a base plate (2) with a fixation device (5) for a putter head (14), which provides a first fixation state for a first, torque-proof fixation of the putter head (14) and a second fixation state for a second, rotational fixation of the putter head (14) in reference to the base plate (2), with the putter head (14) in the second fixation state being rotational in a plate plane of the base plate (2). An adjustable positioning body (11) is connected to the base plate to predetermine a stance of a person in reference to the base plate (2), and alignment markings (9, 27, 29) are provided for a targeted alignment of the putter head (14) in the second fixation state and for controlling a selected alignment of the putter head (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Kramski Putter GmbH
    Inventor: Wiestaw Kramski
  • Patent number: 7891106
    Abstract: A growth chart device features presenting a wall facing side and an opposing chart side with a measuring scale extending along the chart side along a lengthwise dimension of the chart body. A marking area is defined on the chart side of the chart body proximate the measuring scale to receive markings at different positions along the measuring scale at different times to track a height of an individual. At least one door is pivotally mounted on the chart body and movable between open and closed positions in which at least a portion of the chart side of the chart body is respectively uncovered and covered to give selective control over access to said portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Timothy Louis Dunham
  • Patent number: 7891107
    Abstract: A gauge for determining the angle of sloped ground includes a panel, having a transparent window located in it, which can be held by a user so that the sloped ground can be viewed through the window. The panel has a spatial reference associated with it which allows the panel to be oriented properly with respect to the horizontal or vertical. Inscribed on the window are a positioning indicia and a plurality of lines which radiate outwardly from the positioning indicia at specific angles with respect to the horizontal. In use the panel is held such that the positioning indicia is located on the slope. The user can then determine which one of the lines overlies the slope. The angle associated with that line is the angle of the slope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Timothy J. Marcum
  • Patent number: 7891108
    Abstract: This application describes a device for making where to locate and to cut the opening for a utility box, windows, panels or other openings on a sheet of building material. This marking device comprises a metal wire mesh screen mounted to or within a rigid peripheral frame and a magnetic template, which mimics the size of the opening to be cut or the object to be measured. This template is magnetically or removably attached to the planar or flat wire mesh screen and aligned with a mounted utility box. Once the flat magnet or template is appropriately placed on the first surface or area to be measured, the marking device is placed upon the second surface or on the sheet of building material (including without limitation plywood or drywall), and the user can trace the location of the opening to be cut using a pen, pencil or other marking implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Robert S. Cordobes
  • Patent number: 7891109
    Abstract: Contact sensing probe apparatus includes a workpiece contacting stylus, a transducer mechanically coupled to the stylus and an oscillator for supplying an alternating current to the transducer to induce vibration of the stylus. A contact sensor is also provided for monitoring the phase difference between the voltage supplied to the transducer and the current flow to the transducer. The oscillator is arranged to supply the transducer with an alternating current of a first frequency during contact sensing. This first frequency is selected to induce mechanical resonance but to be away from the maximum of the mechanical resonance peak. The probe may be used with co-ordinate positioning machines, such as portable articulated measuring arms, co-ordinate measuring machines (CMM) and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Renishaw PLC
    Inventors: Nicholas John Weston, James Fergus Robertson
  • Patent number: 7891110
    Abstract: A self-checking anchor bolt suspension assembly includes an array of suspension segments each including equally sized openings distributed in a spaced relationship therein for engaging in suspension resilient tubular caps provided with annular tapered cavities communicating through annular apertures at the lower ends thereof. The aperture size and the cavity taper are selected so that the threaded shank of an anchor bolt of only a singular dimensional increment is receivable and resiliently grasped therein and the caps are each color coded in accordance with the shank size of the bolt. In this manner the color coding provides a quick visual assurance that only the properly sized anchor bolts are deployed for immersion into the poured concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Rudy A. Diaz
  • Patent number: 7891111
    Abstract: A goniometer including an arcuate rotor plate rotatable about an axis of motion spaced apart from the rotor plate for supporting a device and a base having an arcuate base plate The rotor is rotationally coupled to the base by shaft and a resilient shaft bearing mounting exerting a resilient force on the shaft to maintain a positive engagement between the roller and rotor body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: George Edward Mauro
  • Patent number: 7891112
    Abstract: The invention relates to a guiding device (3) for guiding a displaceable machine element (1) of a machine. Said guiding device (3) in connected in a mechanically fixed manner to a machine bed (4). A material measure (6) is arranged along at least one part of the guiding device (3) in order to determine a position of the machine element (1). The guiding device (3) and the material measure (6) can be displaced in relation to each other and at least one part of the material measure (6) is in contact with the guiding device (3) either directly or via a bearing (9). The inventive guiding device (3) enables the displaceable machine elements to be positioned in a precise manner even when the machine bed (4) is vibrated. The invention also relates to a machine comprising said type of guiding device (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Gerhard Forster, Jens Hamann, Dietmar Stoiber
  • Patent number: 7891113
    Abstract: A clogging degree deciding method for a dryer, which can accurately determine a clogging degree of an air passage, even when there is an influence of external environments, is disclosed. The clogging degree deciding method includes reading information as to clogging of an air passage, and displaying a clogging degree of an exhaust duct or a clogging degree of a filter in accordance with the read clogging information. The clogging information includes an ON/OFF duty ratio of a temperature control member. The displaying step includes comparing a difference between two ON/Off duty ratios finally stored with a filter-clogging determination reference value, and determining the clogging degree of the filter, based on a result of the comparison. Accordingly, it is possible to provide the clogging degrees of the exhaust duct and filter to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Chang Hun Oh, Seon Il Heo, Yang Hwan Kim, Yeon Sik Choi, Seog Ho Ko, Ju Han Yoon
  • Patent number: 7891114
    Abstract: This invention pertains to a bio-mass processing system, and method of processing waste bio-mass, wherein one or more mixers mixes a bed of bio-mass material such as manure at substantially any and all locations in a defined length and width portion of the bed, in a dryer. Heated air percolates upwardly through the bed. Separation apparatus separates a relatively dryer fraction of the bio-mass material from the dryer. The separated finished product from the dryer is optionally fed to a boiler where the dried bio-mass material is burned. Heat of combustion from the boiler is used as dryer heat for drying the bio-mass feed material in the dryer. Excess heat is optionally used to produce steam, which powers a turbine, which powers an electrical generator. Residual ash from the combustion process comprises about 2% by weight of the solids content of e.g. a feed stream coming into the dryer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Skill Associates, Inc.
    Inventor: Wallace R. Lasonde
  • Patent number: 7891115
    Abstract: A material drying apparatus for removing moisture from material positioned in an envelope interior. The apparatus comprises an inlet structure, an air removal assembly to remove air from the interior, and a moisture removal assembly for removing moisture from gases from the interior. The assembly comprises a first moisture removal structure, a second moisture removal structure, and a heat pump for transferring heat in a selected direction between the first and second moisture removal structures. The heat pump alternately heats a heat exchanger of one moisture removal structure and cooling a heat exchanger of the other moisture removal structures. The apparatus comprises a control apparatus for controlling operation of the first and second moisture removal assemblies and the heat pump. The control apparatus is configured to sense a condition of the apparatus and reverse operation of the heat pump upon detecting that the condition has passed a predetermined level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventors: Patrick C. Nichols, Isaac Weddington, Charles P. Nichols
  • Patent number: 7891116
    Abstract: A rubberless neoprene boot waterproofed from the inside comprised of a composite sock fabricated from a neoprene foam, coated with a polyurethane film sandwiched by an inner boot liner and a stretchable external layer that may be stretched and formed upon a shoe last. A composite upper shaft section made of neoprene foam, polyurethane film and an inner boot liner, and a semi-stretchable external durable fabric extending from said sock. An external foot jacket jacketing the sock forming an upper boot unit having internal seams with a series of thermoplastic heat sealing tapes to collectively seal all said internal seams against the penetration of moisture and a toe reinforcing stiffener and a heel reinforcing stiffener located between the stretchable external layer of said sock and the foot jacket. An inner sole secured to the sock and an outer sole securely anchored to a bottom end of the inner sole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Nikolay Iglikov
  • Patent number: 7891117
    Abstract: The present invention in a first embodiment comprises a charm chain depending from two sandal adapted fasteners designed to be fastened on closed cell foam sandals either at pivots holding a strap onto the sandal or else at the periphery of the upper of the sandal. The fasteners may be elastic material in an annular shape such as a ring, a flower, or any other shape, with an aperture therethrough or similar designs. In embodiments, the fasteners may be clips adapted to hold between their jaws the thickness of closed cell foam typically found in such sandal uppers, this same thickness usually being present on the strap as well so that the invention clips may attach there as well if desired. In other embodiments, a single fastener is suspended at a single location and a charm in turn depends from the fastener, possibly including a clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Barbie Jo Sack
  • Patent number: 7891118
    Abstract: A spike assembly is engaged with a recess in the outsole of a sport shoe and includes a base with a tubular portion and a plurality of protrusions extend from the base portion in axial direction of the base portion. Each protrusion includes an inclined side and a vertical side with a rounded portion connecting between the inclined side and the vertical side. A spike member includes screw portion which is securely connected to the tubular portion and an annular portion extends from the spike member, a plurality of blocks extend from the top of the annular potion which has a tapered outer periphery so as to seal the recess of the outsole of the sport shoe. The blocks slide along the inclined sides of the protrusions and then stopped by the vertical sides of the protrusions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventors: Kuming Chen, Hsien Ping Chen
  • Patent number: 7891119
    Abstract: A boot includes an upper formed of articulating panels that permit portions of the boot to move in substantial independence from one another in response to loads experienced by the boot. The boot generally comprises a sports boot that is positioned around a wearer's foot for coupling to an external appliance, such as a snowboard, wakeboard, skating appliance (such as a blade or wheels), or any other appliance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Flow Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Roger Neiley
  • Patent number: 7891120
    Abstract: A shoe cover is inserted over a shoe tongue to protect the shoe tongue and to display advertisements or other fashionable designs. The cover has a sleeve with a fastener attached to an interior surface. A complementary fastener is attached to the shoe tongue. Both fasteners engage to secure the shoe tongue cover onto the shoe tongue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Randy Neihoff
  • Patent number: 7891121
    Abstract: A blade assembly for an earthworking implement has a set of teeth that are independently slideable within guides. The teeth slide to conform to an undulating surface and permit scraping of the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Doug Smoljo
  • Patent number: 7891122
    Abstract: A gift card assembly includes a backing, a gift card and a sticker group. The gift card is formed separately from and supported by the backing. The gift card defines an activation feature configured to facilitate loading the gift card with monetary value. The sticker group is formed separately from and supported by the backing. Other method and product embodiments are disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventors: Amy Lauer, John Mayhew
  • Patent number: 7891123
    Abstract: An insert for framing a standard sized DVD face paper insert/standard compact disc picture/booklet insert inserted into a standard jewel box case and for hanging the standard jewel box case, including a generally rectangular single sheet of paper. The generally rectangular single sheet of paper includes a hanging portion and a framing portion. The hanging portion is separatable from the framing portion along a cut line. The framing portion has a frame. In a first embodiment, the frame folds over the standard sized DVD face paper insert at all four sides once the standard sized DVD face paper insert is placed on the framing portion, to thereby form a framed standard sized DVD face paper insert for insertion into a front half of a DVD case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Carl D. Luenser