Patents Issued in March 29, 2011
  • Patent number: 7913421
    Abstract: Sole for footwear with ventilation induced by the Venturi effect is the present invention. An insole is superimposed that includes a plurality of holes for the passage of air from the sole towards the interior of the shoe. The sole includes at least one inlet opening placed on the lateral frontal surface and at least one outlet opening placed on the back lateral surface. The inlet opening and outlet opening of an airflow channel are each provided respectively with a sliding shutter that reduces the incoming airflow and a sliding shutter that reduces the outgoing airflow and a plurality of air inlet holes made on the insole to make the air enter and exit in correspondence with the foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Franco Malenotti
  • Patent number: 7913422
    Abstract: An energy-return shoe system includes a shoe portion with an upper plate affixed to its bottom surface. A shaft runs longitudinally along a lower sole and the shaft is rotatable along its axis. Hinges interface between the upper plate and the shaft. At least two of the hinges close in a first direction and at least one of the hinges close in the opposite direction. Each of the hinges has a first hinge arm connected to a second hinge arm by a middle pivot. A distal end of the first hinge arm is pivotally connected to the upper plate and a distal end of the second hinge arm is pivotally connected to the shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen Perenich
  • Patent number: 7913423
    Abstract: The present invention provides individual solutions to workplace fatigue and stress by determining the specific support needed for each individual. Specifically, the present invention defines and utilizes an ergonomic interaction factor to enable selection of a proper fitting shoe. Such selection occurs in one embodiment by dividing a person's weight by the contact area of the bottom of their feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Johnson Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Robert E. Johnson, Paul R. Johnson
  • Patent number: 7913424
    Abstract: A shoe structure having an exterior upper, an interior upper, an insole and an outsole. The interior upper has an upper opening with a peripheral edge at the upper end of the interior upper and a lower opening with a peripheral edge at the lower sole-side end of the interior upper, with the interior upper also having a rear or heel area, two side areas and a front area with a seam running between the upper and lower openings. The seam runs from the upper opening on the one side over the front area to the lower opening on the other side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Sympatex Technologies GmbH
    Inventors: Paul Edmund Raith, Liviu-Mihai Pavelescu
  • Patent number: 7913425
    Abstract: A convertible shoe having a shoe body and a shoe sole. An air channel formed in said shoe sole including pressurized air inlet and air exhaust. An elongated pocket or multiple individual pockets in the bottom of the shoe sole and along said air channel. A flexible wall portion between said air channel and pocket that expands into the pocket(s) upon pressurization of said air channel. A protrusion affixed to said flexible wall portion and which extends out of said pocket and into engagement with a support surface when said air channel is pressurized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Select Sole, LLC
    Inventors: Stacy Renee Fogarty, Patrick Michael O'Brien, John Michael O'Brien
  • Patent number: 7913426
    Abstract: A footwear article (1), for practicing a sport, in particular, motorcycling, includes a rigid body (2), for housing the foot of a user, running in an extension direction (8), a rigid upper (4), for housing the leg of a user and running essentially in an elevation direction (10), a joint (6), permitting the rotation of the upper with relation to the body in a transverse direction (12), stop elements for limiting the rotation of the upper (4) with relation to the body (2) in the transverse direction (12) within a range of rotation limits over 50 to 70 degrees, damping elements (14), generating a torque which opposes the approach of the first and second stop elements, the damping elements having an inactive state when the upper and the body move relative to each other within a normal rotation range of 30 to 50 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventors: Gérard Valat, Cédric Ragot
  • Patent number: 7913427
    Abstract: An article of footwear for riding is disclosed. The article includes a second portion of an upper having a second coefficient of friction that is greater than a first coefficient of friction associated with a first portion of an upper. The article further includes a detachable spur member configured to attach to a heel counter of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: D'Wayne Edwards, Sean M. McDowell, Julia Roether
  • Patent number: 7913428
    Abstract: The present invention provides electromagnetic fitness shoes with a conductor structure and an insole. The shoes include a vamp, an inner space, a heel portion and a sole. The sole includes a big sole body, a middle sole and an insole. The insole is provided with conducting members, and the conductor structure electrically connects to a conducting member. The conducting member includes a conductive terminal and electric wire. The conductive terminal fitted with an electric connecting portion. The conductive terminal is assembled into the interleaving space formed by the heel portion and arranged along the interleaving space. The electric connecting portion is exposed upwards, and the conducting member of insole is made of conductive fabrics. The robustness is improved, and the service life of the electromagnetic fitness shoes is prolonged with better comfort and applicability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Ching-Hung Wang
  • Patent number: 7913429
    Abstract: A system of constructing a pair of devices to provide lateral or medial corrections of a desired degree includes a right foot orthotic shell (20R) and a left foot orthotic shell (20L). A first angled wedge (40A) is connectable to the right shell (20R) and a second angled wedge (40B) is connectable to the left shell (20L) to provide lateral correction. The second wedge (40B) is connectable to the right shell (20R) and the first wedge (40A) is connectable to the left shell (20L) to provide medial correction. A plurality of pairs of wedges (40) can be provided with each pair providing a different angle of correction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Remington Products Company
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Wert
  • Patent number: 7913430
    Abstract: A screening, crushing or mixing bucket which is designed as the bucket of an excavating machine or a bucket loader, comprising a bottom plate (1), side walls (2), and working drums (3), which are rotatable about their axes at a rear part of the bucket and which, while in rotation, effect screening, crushing or mixing of a material present in the bucket and at the same time delivering of a screened, crushed or mixed material out of the bucket between or through the working drums (3). The bucket also includes enclosures (4) for a transmission and bearing assemblies of the working drums (3), said enclosures being defined by frame panels (5) capable of being fitted with bearing cups (6) for the drums (3). Tool flanges (11) are provided with a butt collar or butt expansion (12a), extending around the drum shaft (9, 10) and dimensioned in the drum shaft direction in such a way that, with the tool flanges (11) at a desired distance from each other, between the butt collars (12a) remains a gap (s) for a welded joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Allu Finland Oy
    Inventor: Ari Männikkö
  • Patent number: 7913431
    Abstract: A ground clearing apparatus comprising a box member comprised of a framework having an upper edge, first and second side edges, and a lower edge. A plurality of base teeth protrude downwardly from the lower edge. The apparatus further comprises a grapple including a first grapple arm hingeably attached to the box member, a second grapple arm hingeably attached to the box member, and a cross member joined to a distal ends of the first and second grapple arms. A plurality of grapple teeth extend outwardly from the cross member. The grapple is movable from a closed position in which the grapple teeth are interspersed with the base teeth, to an open position in which the grapple teeth are separated from the base teeth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventors: Roger D. Beam, Richard H. Beam, Michael M. Beam
  • Patent number: 7913432
    Abstract: A cutting tooth assembly for a rotary cutting machine is described. The assembly includes a tooth holder adapted for mounting about the periphery of a rotating element of the rotary cutting machine, and a reversible cutting tooth, removably mounted to said tooth holder. The cutting tooth has opposed first and second cutting faces which are spaced apart along a central tooth axis extending therebetween. Each of the first and second cutting faces at least partially defines more than two cutting edges, and the cutting tooth is reversible by 180 degrees about a transverse tooth axis to dispose a selected one of the first and second cutting faces in an operable cutting position when mounted to the tooth holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Les Equipements Prenbec Inc.
    Inventors: Charles D. MacLennan, Nick Palfy, Denis Rioux, Robert Mitchell
  • Patent number: 7913433
    Abstract: A steam ironing device includes a steam iron, a steam generator for generating steam and supplying steam to the steam iron, and a supply device for supplying water to the steam generator. During operation of the steam ironing device, scale is formed in the steam generator, and the water in the steam generator gradually gets contaminated with ions. In order to clean the steam generator and replace the water with fresh water, the steam generator is regularly subjected to an auto-rinsing process. A moment at which this process needs to take place is a moment at which an amount of scale and/or a concentration of ions have exceeded a predetermined maximum. The amount of scale and/or the concentration of ions are indirectly monitored by keeping account of a total quantity of water that has been supplied to the steam generator since a set starting point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.
    Inventors: Yong Jiang, Tang Pong Har, Lanying Ji, Mun Thoh Ma, Leo Hubert Maria Krings
  • Patent number: 7913434
    Abstract: A calendar system comprising multiple (i.e., twelve) magnetic “month” sheets for each calendar month of the year, a magnetic “To Do List” sheet and a magnetic “Six Weeks at a Glance” sheet. Each sheet includes a header section that can variably depict the current month, year and/or day. The system further includes a plurality of magnetic “week” strips for securing to one of the sheets. Each “week” strip includes seven columns each having a day of the week imprinted adjacent thereto. Adjacent each day of the week indicia is a date space to which one of the numbered tabs is secured to appropriately label each day with the corresponding date for the particular week. A plurality of color-coded event tabs are also included for magnetically securing to one of the “week” strips positioned on a “Month” sheet or the “Six Weeks at a Glance” sheet, or directly to the “To Do List” sheet. Each time a week elapses, a “week” strip is moved from the current “Month” sheet to the “Six Weeks at a Glance Sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Nancy A. Olaver
  • Patent number: 7913435
    Abstract: A vehicle display bracket system for mounting and displaying three-dimensional ornamental objects on the back or front of a comprising at least one and preferably a plurality of three-dimensional ornamental designs having an exterior threaded post for facilitating mounting to a bracket system comprising a bottom support plate, top plate rotatably mounted to the bottom support plate, rod, mounting aperture defined by the top plate for mounting any of the various ornamental attachments a plurality of gear teeth and grooves for fixing the top plate at a desired angle relative to the support plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventors: John F. Hummel, III, Mark E. Robinson
  • Patent number: 7913436
    Abstract: An omni-directional display technology allows for obtaining better display effect and more rational dynamical structure through adopting the assembly of two or more rotating and symmetrical configurable structure of display which is fitted with a blankoff device, comprising: one chassis (12), one rotating display part consisting of a display (1) which is fitted with a blankoff device (3) in front of the display plane, and one vertical rotary driving device (11) fitted on the chassis. This driving device is connected to the rotating display part, comprised of two or more displays which are equipped with blankoff devices and distributed around the vertical axial line, which will, when driven by the vertical rotary driving device, rotate around a vertical axial line (L) and thus realize omni-directional display. This display system is featured by high display brightness, low rotating speed, fine integrity, rational dynamical structure, safe and reliable running, and other advantages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Weiqing Li
  • Patent number: 7913437
    Abstract: A tamper-resistant indicator is disclosed. The indicator includes a front panel configured to be located on an outside surface of a door. The indicator also includes a back panel configured to be located on an inside surface of the door. The indicator also includes a turning indicator, including a springy living hinge, wherein said turning indicator has a front part disposed on the front panel and a back part disposed on the back panel, and the two parts communicate with each other via a rotatable axis or shaft member configured to pass through an opening bored through the door, and wherein the axis or shaft member is coupled between the front and back parts of the indicator, such that rotation of the back part of the indicator rotates the axis or shaft member, which in turn rotates the front part of the indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventors: Caroline Simmen Domenig, Robert Leonard Simmen, Colette Simmen Fischer, Pierre Willy Simmen
  • Patent number: 7913438
    Abstract: A method and an article for arranging and storing a page or presentation that is in progress comprising the steps of placing at least one page on a magnetic substrate, wherein the magnetic substrate is sized to receive the at least one page; arranging at least one page-element onto the at least one page; and placing at least one magnet onto the at least one page-element to hold the at least one element in place. An additional aspect of the embodiment comprises the step of covering the at least one page that is in progress. Yet another aspect of the embodiment comprises the step of storing the magnetic substrate with the at least one page and at least one page-element until the at least one page is completed at a later time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Mary J. Petto
  • Patent number: 7913439
    Abstract: An accessory mount for a rifle for mounting a scope at an offset angle and a flashlight without obscuring the open sight of the rifle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Alan E. Whaley
  • Patent number: 7913440
    Abstract: A telescopic sight includes at least one main tube and a reticule with a reticule adjusting device arranged on the main tube for adjusting the reticule and an optical focusing means with a focus adjusting device arranged on the main tube for focusing the optical focusing means, characterised in that the reticule adjusting device and the focus adjusting device are arranged in the form of an integrated adjusting device, preferably in the form of an integrated adjusting turret, jointly on the main tube.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Swarovski-Optik KG.
    Inventors: Erwin Murg, Ludwig Pernstich
  • Patent number: 7913441
    Abstract: An electro-optical device includes a mount assembly that reduces shock imparted to internal electro-optical components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: L-3 Insight Technology Incorporated
    Inventor: Matthew W. Reed
  • Patent number: 7913442
    Abstract: The present disclosure generally relates to a line guide for a fishing rod and that employs a system of roller assemblies within a frame, the roller assemblies configured to form a passageway for the fishing line to pass through. As an angler reels in a fish and the fishing line is in contact with one of the roller assemblies, the tension of the fishing line will cause a component of the roller assembly to rotate, thus greatly reducing any sliding friction between the fishing line and the line guide. The line guides can be a variety of sizes and the frames of the line guides can vary in shape and their mounting orientation relative to the fishing rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Alexander Roth
  • Patent number: 7913443
    Abstract: An audible fishing weight has a striker is constrained for reciprocating linear motion relative to at least one anvil face between upper and lower limits of the motion. The striker and anvil face are adapted and arranged to produce fish-attractive sound when the striker contacts the anvil face at the lower limit of the striker linear motion with respect to the anvil face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventors: David P. Ward, Phillip C. Ward
  • Patent number: 7913444
    Abstract: A fishing lure, generally the size and shape of a bait fish such as a minnow, is equipped with a safety feature, whereby the lure comprises a hook, preferably positioned on the under surface corresponding to the bait fish's belly, and a spring-biased shell, pivotally connected to the body and positioned such that the shell shields the hook completely when the shell is in a first position and the lure is out of the water, and exposes the hook when the shell is in a second position while the lure is in water, thereby permitting the lure to be used for fishing while preventing injuries from mishandling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Spin Master Ltd.
    Inventors: Conor Forkan, J. Todd Anderson, Robert Glenn Schuyler
  • Patent number: 7913445
    Abstract: An adjustable buoyancy fishing bobber system for efficiently increasing or decreasing the buoyancy of a bobber to match the particular combined weight of the fishing line, lure and bait being currently utilized. The adjustable buoyancy fishing bobber system generally includes a casing including a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first portion extends from the second portion, wherein the casing includes a chamber formed within the first portion and the second portion. Adjusting the first portion with respect to the second portion adjusts a volume of air within the casing. A vent including a channel extends from the casing, wherein the channel extends through vent and fluidly connects to the chamber of the casing to allow the air from within the chamber to escape or enter within the chamber during adjusting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Darin St. Germain
  • Patent number: 7913446
    Abstract: A fishing tackle and lure holder is provided wherein the holder comprises a cylindrical sleeve having upper and lower open ends. A base is detachably secured to the lower end of the sleeve. The diameter of the base is greater than the diameter of the sleeve such that the base extends outwardly from the sleeve to provide a stable support for the sleeve. An array of hook apertures are formed into the upper portion of the sleeve. Specifically, at least two sets of hook apertures are formed or cut into the upper portion of the sleeve. Each hook aperture is designed to receive and hold a hook associated with a fishing tackle or a lure. This will permit a series of fishing tackle and lures to be suspended in an organized fashion around the sleeve of the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: James K. Aldridge, III
  • Patent number: 7913447
    Abstract: The Smart and Multiple Mouse Trap uses two ascendant walls that lead to the top of the mouse trap. On the top of the trap, there is a cylinder shaped wheel that will contain food. In order for the mouse to get the food, it must maneuver upward from one of the two ascendant walls. Then it will go through a one way door. Then as it tries to grab the food from the wheel, it will face the problem of the wheel spinning as well as no room to stand on, providing no stability due to gravity. Then the mouse will have to drop into the mouse trap. The removal of the contents inside the trap will be simply to open the right side door and dump it wherever. The mouse trap does not need to be reset when it traps a mouse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Bahjat S. Jabro
  • Patent number: 7913448
    Abstract: A trap for crabs or lobsters has a mesh extending over a trap frame, with at least one inlet opening provided with a one-way inlet gate spaced apart pins which are pivotable between open and closed positions. Pin retainers prevent spreading of the pins apart from one another when the pins are in the closed position and an undersized crab outlet opening, dimensioned to allow undersized crab or lobsters to escape from the interior chamber, is provided at a side of the trap and at the bottom of the trap. The frame includes an top peripheral frame portion and finger grip openings at the underside of the trap frame. The one-way inlet gate has first and second sets of spaced apart pins, each set being pivotable independently of the other between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: John December
  • Patent number: 7913449
    Abstract: A liquid-lure dispenser that provides long-time uniform emission of an attractant that entices insects or other organisms into a trap, consists of a wick that absorbs the liquid lure from its container and gradually emits the lure to the atmosphere from the exposed portion of the wick. The tubular container holds the desired quantity of lure and has an opening that holds the wick securely in place, with the lower part of the wick immersed in lure and the upper part exposed to air; lure-emission rate can be adjusted by area of wick exposed to air. An opening in the lure container permits lure to be added as needed and avoids an air-pressure drop in the lure container as lure is sucked up by the wick and volatilized. If desirable, insecticide or more than one lure may be released from a dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of Agriculture
    Inventor: Morton Beroza
  • Patent number: 7913450
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for administering at least one substance to a plant or plant material, comprising of: (i) providing at least one substrate with a surface and at least one plant location therein; (ii) providing injecting means; (iii) moving the substrate and the injection means relative to each other; (iv) controlling an alignment of the injecting means relative to the plant location; and (v) injecting the substance at the position of the plant location using the injecting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Precision Drip B.V.
    Inventor: John Van Adrichem
  • Patent number: 7913451
    Abstract: An apparatus straddles and traverses a covered raised planting bed to create holes in the raised bed for production of container plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Fraleigh Nursery, LLC
    Inventors: Jay Fraleigh, James M. Copeland, Sarah Sheldon Copeland, legal representative
  • Patent number: 7913452
    Abstract: A plant stand positioning plant pots in a cascading arrangement. The plant stand includes a pole, a first brace, and a second brace. The pole has a lumen and a plurality of perforations there through. The first brace and the second brace each have an aperture to allow the braces to be slid over the pole and the braces are then received inside of the base plant pot. Multiple plant pots can then be stacked over the pole in an alternating arrangement. Water is delivered to the plants in the pots by flowing through the lumen and out the perforations in the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Edward J. Imm
  • Patent number: 7913453
    Abstract: Potato quality is improved by applying to the plant or to the locus of the plant a composition comprising (a) a compound capable of forming a chelate with iron or (b) a chelate of iron with a chelate-forming compound. Specific quality improvements include increasing the dry matter content, increasing the starch content and reducing the reducing sugar content. A preferred iron chelate is that of EDDHA, available commercially as SEQUESTRENE 138 Fe 100.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Syngenta Crop Protection, Inc.
    Inventors: Elmar Kerber, Duncan McKenzie
  • Patent number: 7913454
    Abstract: A pet portal flap assembly has interior and exterior frames between which moveable flaps are mounted in a swinging door, or in a patio door insert, or in an exterior wall, to permit both ingress and egress of a pet. A handle operated mechanism is provided for selectively vertically positioning the moveable flaps in an uppermost position to permit both ingress and egress of a pet, in a mid-position for only permitting ingress of a pet, and in a lowermost position in which bottom portions of the flaps are locked between the interior and exterior frames to prevent any movement of the flaps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Accession, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas D. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 7913455
    Abstract: A plastic door module for a motor vehicle door includes interfaces for connecting or receiving functional elements of a motor vehicle door, such as window lifter rail and a speaker. The interface for connecting the window lifter rail is connected to the interface for receiving the speaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG, Coburg
    Inventors: Harald Krüger, Manfred Stenzel
  • Patent number: 7913456
    Abstract: Method for mounting a control assembly for doors or windows, in which the door or window comprises a frame including a metallic section bar having an outer wall and a longitudinal groove, and in which the control assembly comprises a handle having a base, a rotatable grip and a rotatable control pin, a transmission device having an input member able to be coupled with the control pin of the handle and at least one carriage movable in rectilinear direction, and connected to the input member by means of a mechanism, a rod able to slidably engage said groove, and a connecting member able to be fastened to the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Savio S.p.A.
    Inventor: Aimone Balbo Di Vinadio
  • Patent number: 7913457
    Abstract: An asset protection apparatus comprising at least one module is disclosed. A module comprises at least one interior layer contacting an asset surface; at least one thermal layer affixed to said at least one interior layer, wherein said at least one thermal layer includes heat adding and heat removal means capable of removing or adding heat to said asset surface or a substance adjacent said at least one thermal layer; and at least one exterior layer affixed to said at least one thermal layer, wherein said at least one exterior layer is constructed of a material or plurality of materials that alone or in combination are resistant to degradation from exposure to outdoor elements, wherein said apparatus is cooperatively secured to said asset surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: James R. Orr
  • Patent number: 7913458
    Abstract: A gutter shield device for mounting to a rain gutter is provided. The gutter shield device includes an elongated body comprising a first body portion; a second body portion; and an intermediate body portion disposed between and connected to the first and second body portions. The intermediate body portion defines a surface and includes a plurality of extending portions extending in a direction away from the surface to define a plurality of openings in the surface. The gutter shield device further comprises a filter element secured to the intermediate body portion. A surface of the filter element is arranged adjacent to the openings. A filtration element adapted to be mounted to a rain gutter is also provided. The filtration element comprises a plurality of interwoven threads defining a first substantially planar surface and at least one substantially planar extending portion extending at an angle to the first substantially planar surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Edward A. Higginbotham
  • Patent number: 7913459
    Abstract: A work space system including a plurality of work areas. A work area includes a spine wall, a first wall adjacent to the spine wall and extending from the spine wall, and a second wall adjacent to the first wall and including an entrance to the work area. The height of the second wall is greater than the height of the first wall, and the height of the first wall is greater than the height of the spine wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas Ball, Leon Goldik, Jeffrey G. Sokalski, Gary C. Smith, Paul Dame, Michael Panse, Joseph T. Iacovoni, Keith E. Foco, Paul S. Gartland, James E. Moon, Jr., Jeffrey D. Roetman, Jeffrey L. Clark, Lawrence W. Kallio, III
  • Patent number: 7913460
    Abstract: An observation shelter includes a plurality of generally upright walls including a first wall having a first window opening positioned therein and a second wall having a second wall positioned therein. First and second shutters are movable between respective raised and closed positions. The first and second shutters have respective shapes configured such that the shutters when in their respective raised positions meet at a joint extending from said corner to provide substantially continuous shelter from the sun for the first window opening and second window opening, and wherein with the first and second shutters in their respective closed positions, an extension portion of the first shutter is received in a pocket portion of the second shutter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Industrial Design Research, Inc.
    Inventor: David J. Stollery
  • Patent number: 7913461
    Abstract: A structural system for use in areas in which space is valuable. The structural system is a self-contained meeting center capable of transforming from a closed storage position into an open position for conducting a meeting. The structural system may be used for interior and exterior applications. The structural system may also include a mobile, micro-climate controlled chair system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Prototype Productions, Inc.
    Inventors: Italo D. Travez, Jose V. Travez, Bryan Ramos
  • Patent number: 7913462
    Abstract: The present invention provides structural members for buildings, methods for using the same, and building structures comprising such structural members. In particular, the present invention provides buildings that can withstand natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, high winds such as hurricanes and tornadoes, and other natural disasters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Jerry A. Woodcock
  • Patent number: 7913463
    Abstract: An adjustable bracing system is provided for a vertical wall structure that includes a vertical member having keyed openings and a generally Z-shaped cross-section. The bracing system further includes an extension member and an outrigger bracket that have cleats for removable engagement with the keyed openings of the vertical member and an adjustable strut that is pivotally secured to the bracket member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: David Russell
  • Patent number: 7913464
    Abstract: An assembly device for at least two laminated glazing elements each including plural individual glazing elements that are rigid and assembled to one another at the surface by bonding layers, which succeed one another in a direction of extension, partially overlapping in contiguous edge regions in perpendicular projection on faces of the glazing elements, and are assembled to one another in this limited overlap region on the edge side. Only one portion of the rigid glazing elements, at least one individual glazing element of each laminated glazing element, extends into the overlap region. This allows a smooth continuous transition from one laminated glazing element to the next with a visual effect of an extremely transparent glazing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Saint-Gobain Glass France
    Inventors: Christian Eckelt, Roland Leopoldseder
  • Patent number: 7913465
    Abstract: An expandable frame for a storm door mounted onto the header and door jamb in an entrance, a frame kit, and method of installation. The expandable frame includes an expandable header assembly, an expandable lock-side assembly and a hinge-side piece. The header assembly includes a frame mount and a header stop mounted onto the underside of the header, the hinge-side piece is mounted vertically against the door jamb on one side of the entry, and the lock-side assembly includes a lock-side stop and a frame mount mounted vertically onto the door jamb opposite the hinge section. A user can adjust the position of the header assembly and lock-side assembly to accommodate a door having smaller dimensions than the height and width of the entrance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: Noubar Yeremian
  • Patent number: 7913466
    Abstract: A panel structure including a flexible panel, at least one edge strip and mounting hardware is provided. Also provided is a method of configuring the panel structure. The edge strip has at least one mounting member receiving area provided thereon. The mounting member receiving area is dimensioned to receive the mounting hardware therein. The mounting hardware cooperates with the edge strip to suspend and mount the flexible panel. When installed, the panel structure provides a canopy-like visual element to a space in which it is suspended or mounted. The panel structure may be suspended or mounted in various configurations having different degrees of flex or curvature. The panel structure can be installed easily and reconfigured easily to suit the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: AWI Licensing Company
    Inventors: Richard D. Stackenwalt, Eric Krantz-Lilienthal, Guillaume Martin
  • Patent number: 7913467
    Abstract: The present invention is predicated upon the provision of systems and methods for reinforcement of a structural member. More particularly, the present invention is predicated upon unique carrier configurations and application of reinforcing material thereto. In one configuration, the application of reinforcing material is achieved without the use of fasteners, adhesives, or both, for placement, locating and restrictive movement of the reinforcing material onto the carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Zephyros, Inc.
    Inventors: Dean J. Schneider, Joseph L. Bolton
  • Patent number: 7913468
    Abstract: An assembly for cooling a penetrant from the non-fire side of a barrier and to extend the time that a firestop prevents the passage of flames and hot gases of a through penetration firestop installation. The present invention includes an encapsulation wrap that is positioned adjacent to and surrounding a penetrant or conduit. The encapsulation wrap comprises a plurality of individual coolant packages, each of which contains purified water or other appropriate coolant. An exterior banding structure is provided which is positioned adjacent to the encapsulation wrap and includes a plurality of vents to improve its heat dissipation properties and may include exterior fins. The encapsulation wrap and exterior banding are positioned and held in place by a hose clamp or other suitable attachment means. The packets of coolant are engineered to release a controlled amount of coolant when the coolant and/or penetrant achieves a predetermined temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventor: George A Spais
  • Patent number: 7913469
    Abstract: A concrete load-bearing wall with compound heat-insulating layer includes wall body (1) and connecting beam (2). Two layers of prefabricated heat-insulating concrete wall bodies (11a, 11b) are set in the wall body (1) of external wall, said prefabricated heat-insulating concrete wall body (11a, 11b) is a concrete plate (5) whose external surface is covered with a heat-insulating material layer (4), every layer of the prefabricated heat-insulating concrete wall body is composed of several trough-type or L-shaped prefabricated heat-insulating concrete wall body units (13). A concrete wall body vertical rib (12) is cast in situ between two adjacent prefabricated heat-insulating concrete wall body units (13) in same layer and connects them into integrity. The upper and lower ends of the rib (12) connect together with the beam of the floor, and the external side of the connecting beam (2) is covered with the heat-insulating material layer (4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Inventors: Ping Qu, Xinfu Chen
  • Patent number: 7913470
    Abstract: An insulating strip is configured to support two profiles or frames in a spaced relationship. The insulating strip includes a body extending in a longitudinal direction and has at least first and second longitudinal edges. The longitudinal edges are configured to be connected with the respective frames or profiles in a shear-resistant manner. Openings penetrate through one or more walls of the body and one or more struts separate the openings from each other in the longitudinal direction of the body. The body further comprises at least one attachment structure configured to retain a covering profile configured to cover the openings. The covering profile may be integral with the insulating strip body or may be a separate part. A composite structural unit comprises two frames supported in a spaced relationship by such an insulating strip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: Technoform Caprano und Brunnhofer GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Thorsten Siodla, Erwin Brunnhofer