Patents Issued in March 31, 2011
  • Publication number: 20110072595
    Abstract: The present invention provides a laundry treatment composition comprising a cationic azine dye.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Stephen Norman Batchelor, Jayne Michelle Bird, Susan Barbara Joyce
  • Publication number: 20110072596
    Abstract: An extendable ramp system extending a ramp from a storage position on a vehicle tailgate or flatbed is provided. A collection box is shown having a collection box channel with a sliding member slidingly engaged and moving within the collection box channel and coupling an end of the ramp to the collection box, the sliding member being coupled to the end of the ramp closest to the collection box when the ramp is extended. An at least two folding structural members are provided having an at least one coupling member coupling the at least two folding structural members and the at least two folding structural members coupling to the at least one sliding member. An at least one horizontal structural member is coupled to the at least two folding structural members and being oriented parallel and horizontal relative to the collection box. An at least two folding support members are provided along with an extension member coupled to the at least two folding support members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Mark Kenny
  • Publication number: 20110072597
    Abstract: Article handling machine (1) comprising a frame (2) for receiving article handling elements, a roof (3) covering said frame (2), and, on one lateral side (6) of the machine (1), a catwalk (5) pivotally mounted on the frame (2) between an extended position in which it protrudes in a direction substantially perpendicular to the lateral side (6), with an inner edge facing the machine lateral side (6), and a folded position in which it stretches out in a direction substantially parallel to the lateral side (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Michele Calzolari
  • Publication number: 20110072598
    Abstract: A counterbalanced ramp assembly includes a ramp portion coupled for reciprocating motion between a stowed position, a deployed position, and a neutral position. A first biasing element is coupled to a first endless loop and compresses a first spring when the ramp portion moves from the neutral position toward the deployed position. The first biasing element is disengaged from the first spring when the ramp portion is located between the neutral position and the stowed position. A second biasing element is coupled to the second endless loop and compresses a second spring when the ramp portion moves from the neutral position toward the stowed position. The second biasing element is disengaged from the second spring when the ramp portion is located between the neutral position and the deployed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: LIFT-U, A DIVISION OF HOGAN MFG., INC.
    Inventors: Donald Morris, David Johnson
  • Publication number: 20110072599
    Abstract: An electrically powered toothbrush has a body having a first end, a head opposite the first end, a neck between the first end and head, an electrical motor and a power source disposed in the body, a drive shaft operatively connected to the motor, and a bristle carrier. The head has a frame defining a recess. The shaft has a longitudinal axis of rotation and a portion offset from the axis of rotation. The bristle carrier is disposed within the recess and is pivotally secured to the frame by a laterally extending pivot member disposed substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of rotation. The bristle carrier has a receiving channel adapted to receive the offset portion. The rotation of the drive shaft causes the offset portion to engage the receiving channel of the bristle carrier thereby causing the bristle carrier to pivot about the pivot member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Patrick W. Brown, Douglas A. Gall
  • Publication number: 20110072600
    Abstract: An optical connector cleaning device which cleans a connecting terminal surface formed inside an insertion hole of an optical connector, by wiping the connecting terminal surface with a cleaning body, the optical connector cleaning device including: a main body including a feeding mechanism which supplies and wraps up the cleaning body; an extending part which extends from the main body and includes an extending tube body and a head part, the head part being inserted into the insertion hole, wherein the head part includes a tip extending part which presses the cleaning body to the connecting terminal surface; the extending tube body includes a tube base part and a tip tube part, the tip tube part being energized in an extending direction with respect to the tube base part; the tip extending part protrudes from a tip of the tip tube part; and the tip extending part is flexible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Fujikura Ltd.
    Inventors: Junichi NAKANE, Kunihiko Fujiwara
  • Publication number: 20110072601
    Abstract: Devices, apparatuses, systems and/or methods related to extendable devices. Specifically, the disclosed devices, apparatuses, systems and/or methods relate to extendable devices having a first handle section, a second handle section, an implement section, an advancement strip. Some example embodiments further include a guide block and a spring to assist in extension and/or retraction of the device. Some example embodiments further include an advancement strip channel to assist in extension and/or retraction of the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Craig Serio, John Edward Cronin, Nancy Edwards Cronin, Sarju Safeek
  • Publication number: 20110072602
    Abstract: A toothbrush which head can be replaced, there is a screw hole at the head of the toothbrush, and the head of the handle is also screw-typed, when the screw-typed head of the handle put into the hole of the head and then screwed it, the head and the handle will be connected together and become a normal toothbrush. The head of the toothbrush can be screwed out and thrown away, the handle head of the toothbrush can be screwed into one new toothbrush head, the toothbrush can be used again as new one, this process can be repeated until the handle is damaged too. Therefore, the handle can be used for much longer time and we can reduce the waste and protect our environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Hing Wing Wong
  • Publication number: 20110072603
    Abstract: A toothbrush having a brush section and a handle section that longitudinally extends between a first end distal to the brush section and a second end proximal to the brush section is provided. The handle section includes at least three longitudinally extending edges on the outer surface of the handle section defining at least three longitudinally extending surface areas that each span between two neighboring edges. The at least three edges each twist in the longitudinal direction by a total twist angle lying in the range of from about 80 degrees to about 100 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Braun GmbH
    Inventors: Phong Duy Vu, Wolfgang Stegmann, Uwe Jungnickel
  • Publication number: 20110072604
    Abstract: A revolutionary three-dimensional brush, specifically designed to maximize performance and provide complete and comprehensive coverage to each surface of the user's teeth on the occlusal, buccal and lingual side. The maximum potential of this brush is accomplished by the three brushes, each covering a different area of the tooth surface in one stroke. The flexibility of the wing allows the brushes to expand and contract in accordance to the diameter and shape of the teeth. When cleaning the front teeth, the brushes will be more contracted, whereas when cleaning the molars, the brushes will be more expanded. Each brush, the lingual, buccal and occlusal contains bristles specifically arranged in evenly spaced rows to allow for a sweeping motion which provides a powerful cleaning to the cervical gingival and proximal gingival areas. This is in contrast to current brushes which contain bristles that are rigid and have no space causing them to pile up together lacking free movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Francisco Alvarenga
  • Publication number: 20110072605
    Abstract: The mouthpiece includes a mouthpiece body (10) having portions (12, 14) configured to receive the user's upper and lower sets of teeth when it is inserted into the user's mouth. Mounted in the receiving portions are teeth-cleaning assemblies (16) which include bristles for cleaning of the teeth and a system for moving the bristles against the teeth to scrub and clean the teeth. Control elements (22) for the cleaning assemblies are actuated by a selected interior portion or element of the user's mouth, such as the tongue, cheek, lips or jaw.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: KONINKLIJKE PHILIPS ELECTRONICS N.V.
    Inventor: Jelte Steur
  • Publication number: 20110072606
    Abstract: Embodiments of foot-worn scrubbing apparatus are disclosed. One embodiment of the apparatus includes a sole made of a suitable sponge material and having a top surface and a bottom surface. A scrubbing surface of another suitable scrubbing material is adhered to the bottom surface of the sole. The sole is also attached to a thong in order to secure the sole and the scrubbing surface to a bare foot or to a socked foot of a user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Lisa K. McLogan
  • Publication number: 20110072607
    Abstract: The invention relates to a connection device (10) for the articulated connection of a wiper blade (28, 30) to a wiper arm, wherein a connection element (12, 120, 126) is tightly connected to the free end of the wiper arm, and the connection element is connected in an articulated manner via mounting means (88, 122, 124) to an adapter (22, 24), and the adapter is tightly seated on a support element (28) of the wiper blade (28, 30).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: David Van Baelen, Klaus-Juergen Westermann, Bernhard Geppert, Yves Janssis, Dirk Herinckx
  • Publication number: 20110072608
    Abstract: The invention relates to a windshield wiper drive (1), particularly a motor vehicle rear window wiper drive, comprising a housing (2) having an output dome (3) penetrated by a wiper shaft (5) and penetrating a contact disk (15), said dome having an external thread (19) in the region of the free end (18) thereof, onto which a nut (20) is screwed for tightening the contact disk (15), the nut being disposed inside a protective cap (21) penetrated by the wiper shaft (15). The invention provides that the protective cap (21) comprises an elastomer material. The invention further relates to a motor vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Roland Bohn, Mario Huesges, Orlando Sterns
  • Publication number: 20110072609
    Abstract: A wiper blade includes a first blade and a second blade surrounding the first blade, such that the first blade is not exposed for use, wherein the removal of the second blade exposes the first blade for use. In another embodiment, a wiper blade includes a body, an inner blade attached to the body, an outer blade bonded to the body or inner blade, a gripping mechanism attached to the outer blade and a removal mechanism located between the inner blade and outer blade, wherein the removal mechanism is attached to the gripping mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Paul Guttillo
  • Publication number: 20110072610
    Abstract: An upright vacuum cleaner includes a housing having a nozzle assembly and a canister assembly. The nozzle assembly and canister assembly are pivotally connected together. A suction inlet is provided on the nozzle assembly. A dirt collection vessel and a suction generator are both carried on the housing. A latch mechanism secures the canister assembly in an upright or storage position relative to the nozzle assembly. The latch mechanism includes an activator and a replaceable stop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Eric E. Muhlenkamp
  • Publication number: 20110072611
    Abstract: A suction head of a vacuum cleaner is disclosed. The suction head includes a housing forming an external appearance, a plurality of suction holes formed in the bottom of the housing, and a sweeper disposed between the suction holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: ACE Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Sung Whan Lee
  • Publication number: 20110072612
    Abstract: An axial spacer for a rotational assembly comprising a body, a rotational assembly attaching member and a centering member. The body comprises an outer ring, an inner ring and a plurality of reinforcing members extending between the inner ring and the outer ring. The reinforcing members each comprise an annular reinforcing rim extending from the outer ring and a connecting beam extending from the annular reinforcing rim to the inner ring. A plurality of web members extend between adjacent reinforcing members and the inner and outer ring, to, in turn, substantially couple adjacent reinforcing members with the inner and outer ring therebetween. The attaching means comprises an opening extending through at least a plurality of the plurality of reinforcing members. The centering member centers the spacer relative to the rotational assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Carey J. Boote
  • Publication number: 20110072613
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a roller for slidably mounting a panel such as a shower door to a rail or to a similar structure. The roller comprises a first cylindrical portion including a rolling surface for engaging the rail and a second cylindrical portion fixedly securable to the shower door panel. The second portion is concentrically mounted to the first portion and is rotatable relative thereto. A resilient member such as a tension spring connects the first portion to the second portion and stores a potential energy when a user moves the shower door in one direction and automatically urges the shower door to move in the opposite direction when released by the user. The invention also relates to a roller assembly comprising a roller and a rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: James Hays
  • Publication number: 20110072614
    Abstract: Apparatus including shower door roll wheel assemblies and methods of using the same are provided. In one embodiment, a shower door roll wheel assembly includes a shaft, a roll wheel and an outer flange. The roll wheel includes a passageway disposed through the body of the roll wheel. The roll wheel is configured to rotate on the shaft about an axis of the passageway. The roll wheel includes a tread configured to engage a track of a shower door track. The roll wheel may include multiple polymeric materials to facilitate tailored durability and noise reduction, among other properties.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: SAPA Extrusions, INC.
    Inventor: Craig Luedke
  • Publication number: 20110072615
    Abstract: A hinge device used for a foldable opening/closing device includes: a first member 2 attached to one side of the foldable device; a second member 3 attached to the other side of the foldable device; a shaft member 4 for joining the first and second members in a manner to enable them to make rotational movement; elastic means 5, attached to the shaft member, for applying a compression force to the first and second members; and a plurality of spacer members 6 that are attached to the shaft member and are compressed by the elastic means, wherein the plurality of spacer members include a first spacer member 61 moving rotationally together with the first member and a second spacer member 62 adjacent to the first spacer member and moving rotationally together with the second member, and in one or both of the first and second spacer members, a through hole 7 that penetrates a spacer surface is formed, and the through hole 7 is filled with grease.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Masashi Tanemura
  • Publication number: 20110072616
    Abstract: A transverse-positioning hinge has a seat, at least one elastic ball, a shaft and a fastening washer. The elastic ball is mounted in the seat. The shaft is mounted through the seat and has at least one positioning detent selectively engaging the elastic ball. The fastening washer is attached to the end of the shaft. Adjusting the tightness for attaching the fastening washer changes the deformation of the elastic ball, and then the resilient force provided by the elastic ball is also adjusted. Therefore, the positioning force provided by the elastic ball is adjustable without changing the elastic ball.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Zion LIN
  • Publication number: 20110072617
    Abstract: A hinge includes a base receiving a coupling device detachably mounted onto a mounting seat. An outer resilient plate includes an end pivotably mounted onto the base. A fixed seat is pivotably mounted onto the other end of the outer resilient plate. A buffer device includes a connecting member, a buffer, and an inner resilient plate. Each of a first pivot hole of the connecting member, an end of the buffer, and an end of the inner resilient plate is pivotably mounted onto the base. The other end of the buffer is pivotably mounted onto a second pivot hole of the connecting member. The other end of the inner resilient plate is slideably mounted onto an arcuate slot of the connecting member. The inner resilient plate further includes a fulcrum pivot hole in at intermediate portion thereof. The fulcrum pivot hole is pivotably mounted by a pivot to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 19, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Xin-Hong LIN, Shu-Hua Lin, Shu-Juan Lin, Shu-Jun Du
  • Publication number: 20110072618
    Abstract: A hinge device includes first and second leaves provided respectively with first and second knuckles coupled pivotally to each other, a torsion spring having an end connected to the second knuckle, cam co-rotatable with the first knuckle, and a cam follower disposed in the first knuckle and coupled to an opposite end of the torsion spring. The first knuckle and the cam are rotatable in a first rotational direction for driving the cam to engage the cam follower and for rotating the cam follower so as to twist the torsion spring. The cam follower can be driven by a restoring force of the torsion spring to rotate in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction to drive the cam and the first knuckle to rotate in the second rotational direction, and is operable to rotate in the first rotational direction for twisting the torsion spring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 25, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Saflok Chen
  • Publication number: 20110072619
    Abstract: A hinge includes a second connector having a hollow pivotal device of which a peripheral outside protrudes outward to form a locking rib, and a first connector having a pivotal sleeve which is pivotally sleeved to the pivotal device to make the first connector rotatable relative to the second connector. The locking rib is able to slide along and abut against a peripheral inside of the pivotal sleeve to produce friction resistance force therebetween for positioning the first connector at any inclined angle relative to the second connector. A fastening pin is disposed in the pivotal device of the second connector and spaced from a peripheral inside of the pivotal device so that can make the pivotal device pressed inward to produce an outward elasticity to strengthen the friction resistance force between the locking rib and the peripheral inside of the pivotal sleeve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: CHENG UEI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hung-Chi Wang, Chin-Te Chiu, Mei-Chuan Yang
  • Publication number: 20110072620
    Abstract: A hinge includes a second connector having a pintle of which a locating rib is protruded at a peripheral outside, and a first connector which includes a pivotal sleeve sleeved to the pintle and defining a slot to break off the pivotal sleeve for locking the locating rib therein, a coupling flap and a locating strip spaced from each other in a parallel relation and connected with two opposite edges of the slot respectively. The locating rib can further slide along and abut against a peripheral inside of the pivotal sleeve to produce friction resistance force therebetween for positioning the first connector at any inclined angle relative to the second connector. A fastening element holds the locating strip and the coupling flap together and can adjust a space between the locating strip and the coupling flap to further regulate the friction resistance force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: CHENG UEI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hung-Chi Wang, Chin-Te Chiu, Mei-Chuan Yang
  • Publication number: 20110072621
    Abstract: In the case of a fall protection connector for connecting a strap to a load-fastening point for a person to be protected against falling, wherein the fall protection connector has a tubular band, at the ends of which respective connecting elements are arranged, wherein a length-variable element is arranged in the tubular band, the arrangement has been brought about in such a manner that the tubular band is formed from an elastic material.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: SKYLOTEC GMBH
    Inventor: Kai Rinklake
  • Publication number: 20110072622
    Abstract: A cleat with automatic line-locking, includes a frame having proximate and remote sides and formed with a passageway, extending between the proximate and remote sides, for receiving a line for movement along a first line moving direction from the proximate to the remote sides and an opposing line pulling direction from the remote to the proximate sides, and defining a line bearing surface or limit stop on one side of the passageway for limiting excessive transverse movements of the line in a direction to the one side of the passageway. Fasteners attach the frame to a support surface. A cam is provided on the frame on the other or opposite side of said passageway and has a line engaging portion normally spaced a predetermined distance from the line.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Peter Stone
  • Publication number: 20110072623
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward an elastomeric releasable cable tie having a head and a strap extending from the head. The head includes an end wall, an inner wall and sidewalls. The end wall, inner wall and sidewalls define a channel that extends from an entrance end to an exit end of the head. The head also includes a hingeless wedge extending from the end wall into the channel for engaging the strap.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: PANDUIT CORP.
    Inventors: Michael J. Vermeer, Robert J. Krisel, David W. West
  • Publication number: 20110072624
    Abstract: A clip may include an anchor portion having a plurality of flexible strips and at least one support strip. Each of the flexible strips is integrally connected to the at least one support strip only via a connecting portion corresponding to a distal end portion of the anchor portion and a connecting portion corresponding to a proximal end portion of the anchor portion. When the anchor portion is pushed into an insertion hole formed in a subject member, the anchor portion is inserted into the insertion hole while each of the flexible strips are flexed toward a longitudinal axis of the anchor portion. Each of the flexible strips is formed such that the difference between a second moment of area of the anchor distal end side connecting portion and a second moment of area of the anchor proximal end side connecting portion is 0-15%.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: DAIWA KASEI KOGYO KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Toshio IWAHARA, Kazuki FUJII
  • Publication number: 20110072625
    Abstract: A push-on clip fastener for securing two components together, such as interior automotive components. The push-on clip fastener includes a housing, a cover and a spring. The housing may include an aperture, wherein the housing may be capable of being located over a stud to secure an interior automotive component there between. The cover may include a pair of legs, wherein the cover may be insertable into the housing. The legs may be inserted into the housing cause the spring to straighten. The spring may include a slot, wherein the slot may be aligned with the aperture in the housing. The straightening of the spring may cause a clamp load. The housing may also include projections located on each side of the housing. The cover may also include retaining features located on each side of the cover that may be engageable with the housing projections to secure the fastener together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Todd Hemingway, Walter Pipp, Mike Danby, Charles A. Deperro
  • Publication number: 20110072626
    Abstract: This invention provides methods for finishing knitted fabrics and fabrics finished by the novel process. In one embodiment, the method of finishing a knitted fabric includes the steps of: (a) stretching the fabric above about 5% but less than about 25% in width, and above about (?)7% but less than about 10% in length, (b) heat-setting the fabric to the stretched width and length at a temperature above about 120 degrees Centigrade and lowefthan about 250 degrees Centigrade, and (c) applying a polymeric protective binder coating resin to the fabric at a concentration of at least 5% but less than 25% based on the weight of the fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS
    Inventors: Yong Ku Kim, Armand Francis Lewis
  • Publication number: 20110072627
    Abstract: A system and associated method for disengaging a shrink coupling that secures a shaft to a drive train component, such as a gearbox, includes a reaction plate erected around the shaft at a location displaced from the shrink coupling, with the reaction plate being anchored in place relative to the shaft. A plurality of jacking devices, such as hydraulic jacks, are operationally disposed between the reaction plate and shrink coupling and spaced circumferentially around the shaft. The jacking devices have a first end engaged against the reaction plate and a second opposite end mechanically fastened to the shrink coupling. To remove the shrink coupling from the drive train component, the shrink coupling is released from its clamped state and the jacking devices are activated to exert a pulling force on the shrink coupling, which causes the shrink coupling to be pulled off of the drive train component and moved axially along the shaft to a resting position on the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: Richard Arland Ohl, JR.
  • Publication number: 20110072628
    Abstract: An all weather housing assembly for protection of electrical components includes a first housing having an open end and defining a first compartment for receipt therein of electronic components; a cover attached to the first housing for enclosing the first compartment, the cover further including a mounting structure for receiving and retaining a power source which structure is mounted on a side of the cover that is exterior to the enclosed first compartment; and a second housing having an open end and defining a second compartment that is dimensioned to cover and protect a power source when received and retained by the mounting structure of the cover, the second housing being connected to the first housing independent of the attachment of the cover to the first housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Robert W. Twitchell, JR., Richard Alan Clark
  • Publication number: 20110072629
    Abstract: A method of covering an opening through an exposed upwardly facing surface that defines an access opening to a conduit assembly defining a communication passage to a below surface location. The method includes the steps of: providing a cover assembly with a non-metallic component; and operatively joining the cover assembly with the conduit assembly so that the non-metallic component is placed against a metal component on the conduit assembly and transmits weight forces applied to at least one of: a) the exposed upwardly facing surface; and b) a surface defined by a cover component on the cover assembly that blocks the access opening and is substantially flush with the exposed upwardly facing surface, to the metal component on the conduit assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Robert Flood, JR., Jeremy Nylund
  • Publication number: 20110072630
    Abstract: A captive panel fastener is manufactured by first overmolding a plastic cap around the head of a screw, the cap having a cylindrical plastic skirt extending downwardly beyond the base of the screw head and formed with a circular opening at the bottom. After a compression spring is placed around the shank of the screw, the screw is pressed against a top surface of a ferrule to a point where the capped-skirt extends downwardly below a ferrule flange. At that point, heat and pressure are applied radially inwardly around the periphery of the plastic skirt along its bottom edge until it is permanently deformed to a point where the bottom of the skirt is smaller in diameter than the ferrule flange. The screw is thereby captivated to the ferrule between extended and retracted positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: PEM MANAGEMENT, INC.
    Inventors: Brian Bentrim, David Bruno
  • Publication number: 20110072631
    Abstract: Described herein is a mounting system and slider clips that support simplified installation of photovoltaic structures. The mounting system comprises a support structure which can be mounted to support columns via an optional tilt table. The support structure comprises a plurality of parallel spaced beams and a plurality of parallel spaced rails that are mounted approximately perpendicular to the beams. Disclosed embodiments describe a collapsible support structure in which the rails are pivotally mounted to the beams. Rails are preassembled with prefabricated slider clips for holding edge portions of the photovoltaic structures. Rails can also be integrally formed with slider clips. Described herein are also methods of installing one or more photovoltaic structures using the mounting system and methods for manufacturing slider clips and a photovoltaic structure mounting system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: John Hartelius, Michael Monaco, Kyle Kazimir, John Anthony Bellacicco
  • Publication number: 20110072632
    Abstract: A mounting system is disclosed for mounting a bearing assembly or other mechanical element to a shaft. The mounting system uses a tapered sleeve mechanism to secure the bearing assembly on the shaft. Specifically, a pressure loaded piston drives the sleeve from a pre-assembled position to an initial position. The initial position is determined by monitoring the pressure applied to the piston. Once the initial position has been reached, a linear indicator is used to measure the axial sleeve movement from the initial position to a final position. The system remains in place after the bearing is installed on the shaft and facilitates removal of the bearing assembly from the shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: BALDOR ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventor: William G. Hewitt
  • Publication number: 20110072633
    Abstract: An article of furniture having a construction adapted to efficiently accommodate electrical components. The article of furniture includes a frame or chassis having support leg assemblies, and a beam connected to the support leg assemblies to which a channel is mounted. The support leg assemblies include work surface supports which support work surfaces at adjustable heights above the channel, and a gap between the work surfaces allows access to the electrical system within the channel. The electrical system is modular in design, and includes a series of components that may be connected to one another in a manner that the location of electrical outlet modules may be easily adjusted. The channel has a plurality of knock-out openings which may be selectively used for locating electrical outlets at any desired position along the channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: KIMBALL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Jay M. Henriott, David B. Crafton
  • Publication number: 20110072634
    Abstract: Sealing gasket construction for providing a fluid seal intermediate a pair of opposed, mating parts or structures, one of the parts having an edge and a void space defined along the edge. The gasket includes a retainer and a resilient seal element having a wedging portion extending radially beyond one of the retainer inner or outer perimeter. The wedging portion is configured in a free state to extend into the area of the void space and to be wedged against the other one of the interfacing parts, and thereby made to occupy at least a portion of the void space.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Julian F. Kamibayashiyama
  • Publication number: 20110072635
    Abstract: A method for securing handlebar stem to steering tube includes a step of placing a head tube, an upper bearing set and a stem tube on a top of a steering tube, and an underside of the stem tube being in contact with the upper bearing set; a step of using a securing device having an expandable portion inserted into the steering tube and applying a downward force to a top of the stem tube; a step of rotating the securing device to urge the expandable portion against an inner periphery of the steering tube and the downward force pressing the stem tube onto the upper bearing set, and a step of releasing the expandable portion and removing the securing device from the steering tube. The securing device can be used repeatedly and reduces the bicycle weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 30, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Chien Hao Lee
  • Publication number: 20110072636
    Abstract: A method for assembling a porous membrane cartridge having a cylindrical barrel, a cap, and a porous membrane. The method includes: forming openings at a top end and rear end in the barrel, respectively; forming the cap into a cylindrical shape having a fit-in portion configured to fit the portion outside the top end of the barrel, and forming in the cap a sandwiching face configured to abut with an opening edge of the top end and to sandwich the porous membrane between the barrel and the sandwiching face; crushing a peripheral edge of the porous membrane and sandwiching the porous membrane; and fixing the cap to the barrel so as not to be pulled out of the barrel by welding the opening edge and the sandwiching face by ultrasound.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: FUJIFILM Corporation
    Inventors: Keiji SHIGESADA, Morio Fujiwara
  • Publication number: 20110072637
    Abstract: The invention includes a joint assembly for connecting first and second longitudinal edges of portions of an acoustic barrel or panel having an open cell core, a perforated inner skin, and an outer skin. The joint assembly includes at least one strip covering a plurality of openings in walls of cells along the first and second longitudinal edges. The strip is separate from the inner and outer skins. A plate includes a first portion connected to the outer skin proximate to the first longitudinal edge, and a second portion connected to the outer skin proximate to the second longitudinal edge.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Rohr, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Richard Douglas
  • Publication number: 20110072638
    Abstract: A method of manufacture for an end effector assembly is provided. The method includes providing a pair of jaw members. A step of the method includes forming one or more seal plates positionable on one of the pair of jaw members. Etching a dam along a side of the one or more seal plates is a step of the method, wherein the etched dam inhibits the flow of a plastic on the one or more seal plate such that a height of the plastic with respect to the at least one seal plate during an overmolding process may be controlled. The method includes positioning the one or more seal plates on the one of the pair of jaw members; and overmolding the seal plate to one or more of the pair of jaw members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Kim V. Brandt, Allan G. Aquino
  • Publication number: 20110072639
    Abstract: A battery assembly for use in an electronic device is provided. The battery assembly may include a battery cell (e.g., a rechargeable battery cell), a battery connector for providing power from the battery cell to the electronic device, and a flex circuit electrically coupling the battery cell to the electronic device. The battery connector may be located adjacent the battery cell, and may include one or more alignment mechanisms for ensuring that conductive pads of the battery connector align properly with corresponding conductive elements of the electronic device. The battery cell may be fixed to the electronic device using an adhesive layer (e.g., double sided tape) placed between the cell and the electronic device. A tab may extend beyond the periphery of the battery cell to allow a user to pull or peal the battery cell from the electronic device for replacement or repair. In some embodiments, a tool may be used to grasp the tab.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Myers, Erik Wang, Trent Weber, Jason Sloey
  • Publication number: 20110072640
    Abstract: A method for modifying a sealing system of a hydrogen-cooled generator includes coupling to a sealing device of the generator a contacting seal comprising a plurality of non-metallic bristles projecting from an aluminum body with tips of the bristles engaging a rotor of the generator. Another method includes removing a portion of a non-contacting seal, providing a replacement sealing device comprising an aluminum body and a plurality of non-metallic bristles projecting therefrom, and replacing the removed portion of the non-contacting seal by coupling the aluminum body to the non-contacting seal such that tips of the bristles contact the rotor. Another method includes removing an original sealing device, providing a replacement sealing device comprising an aluminum body and a plurality of non-metallic bristles projecting therefrom, and inserting the replacement sealing device into the generator such that tips of the bristles contact a rotor of the generator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: GENERAL ELECTRIC COMPANY
    Inventors: Eric John Ruggiero, Nitin Bhate, Daniel James Fitzmorris, Anthony James George
  • Publication number: 20110072641
    Abstract: A stator winding (10) of a rotating electrical machine, in particular at operating voltages of above 6 kV, is provided with preformed coils or bar windings, wherein the individual conductors of the preformed coils or bar windings are inserted into slots in the region of the stator body and are connected to one another in an end winding region outside of the stator body, and wherein the conductors (14) are surrounded by a main insulation (15) and a corona-discharge protection (16) covering said main insulation (15). For such a stator winding, operation of the machine or generator at higher temperatures or higher altitudes than originally planned is made possible without changing the geometry of the end winding by providing additional structure (17) for improving the resistance to corona discharge of the conductors (14) in the end winding region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas Baumann
  • Publication number: 20110072642
    Abstract: A compact integrated waveguide load has a load section disposed within an interior region of the waveguide proximate to a closed end of the waveguide. The load section has a tubiform shape, with an exterior surface congruent with an interior surface of the waveguide and an interior surface defining a circumferential step within the waveguide. A method of making a compact integrated waveguide load includes providing a waveguide and placing electromagnetic wave absorbing materially circumferentially around the interior surface to create an inward step.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Rory Kim Sorensen, Neil Kenneth Harker, Steven Douglas Wollschleger, Richard Gerald Edwards
  • Publication number: 20110072643
    Abstract: The system and method make transformer core assemblies from core segments output from a segment forming machine. The system includes a rack assembly and a transfer mechanism for moving the segments from the segment forming machine to the rack assembly. A work table is positioned adjacent to the rack assembly. The rack assembly is rotatable and holds a pair of racks, wherein one rack receives segments and the other may be lowered at the same time to perform finishing steps. The system further increases efficiency by including a second segment forming machine, transfer mechanism, and rack assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Applicant: ABB Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Anderson, Sandina Ponte
  • Publication number: 20110072644
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a hard-disk drive (HDD). The method for manufacturing a HDD includes writing servo tracks, and writing servo tracks into the HDD using a calculated control target value of a calculated servo pattern overlap amount. Writing servo tracks includes a first, second, third and fourth operation. The first operation includes: producing a first control equation for obtaining a servo pattern overlap amount; and, converting a root-mean-square error (RMSE) into a probability distribution. The second operation includes calculating a second control target value that results in an increased product yield, from the RMSE probability distribution. The third operation includes producing a second control equation for obtaining a calculated servo pattern overlap amount, by assigning the second control target value into the first control equation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Yoshiteru Katsumura, Yasunori Nishimoto, Alice Okabe, Hiroshi Fukuyama