Patents Issued in July 5, 2011
  • Patent number: 7971354
    Abstract: A multilayer printed wiring board manufacturing method including forming conductor posts, which are of substantially uniform thickness and with which the top surfaces are protected by a resist, on a conductor pattern disposed on an upper surface of a build-up layer formed on a core substrate, shaping the conductor posts to have a constriction by adjusting the time of immersion in an etching solution that etches the conductor posts, forming a low elastic modulus layer of substantially the same height as the conductor posts after removing the resist at the top surfaces, and forming mounting electrodes on upper surfaces of the conductor posts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Ibiden Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takashi Kariya, Toshiki Furutani
  • Patent number: 7971355
    Abstract: A method for attaching a ring element to a piston for an internal combustion engine, in which the ring element is screwed onto the piston body by a thread applied to the radially outer surface of a part of the piston crown, a circumferential groove that is open towards the top is formed into the piston crown in the region of the thread, the groove is filled with solder material, the piston is heated until the solder material liquefies and flows between the thread channels of the thread and subsequently, the piston is cooled. As a result, a secure screw connection between the basic piston body and the ring element is obtained. Furthermore, the cooling channel is sealed with regard to the combustion gases, which stand under high pressure and act on the piston crown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: MAHLE International GmbH
    Inventor: Rainer Scharp
  • Patent number: 7971356
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for contour grinding wide blades at high speed, according to which a wheel (1) is used the grinding contour of which has a width dimension that is less than the width of the tip of the blades to be ground, said contour being defined by a straight area followed by an arched area at one end, with the straight area of which a straight grinding is carried out to deburr the tip of the blades, whereas with the arched area the contour grinding is carried out by the interpolation of axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Danobat, S.Coop.
    Inventors: Xabier Orobengoa Ortubay, Harvinder Sigh Chana
  • Patent number: 7971357
    Abstract: A device for treatment of exhaust gases includes a housing, a fragile structure resiliently mounted within the housing, and a non-intumescent mounting mat disposed in a gap between the housing and the fragile structure. The mounting mat includes a plurality of inorganic fibers that have undergone a surface treatment to increase the holding force performance of the mounting mat. Also disclosed are methods of making a mounting mat for an exhaust gas treatment device and for making an exhaust gas treatment device incorporating the mounting mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Unifrax I LLC
    Inventors: John D. Ten Eyck, Amit Kumar
  • Patent number: 7971358
    Abstract: A flow path forming member is formed with a recessed portion for forming an ink flow path. A junction surface of the flow path forming member is in a protruded state from a non-junction surface. The flow path forming member is composed of a transparent resin exhibiting transmissivity of laser beam. A tank holder is composed of a non-transmissive resin having no transmissivity of the laser beam. In a state where the flow path forming member is press-connected to the tank holder, the junction surface is welded by irradiating a periphery of the ink flow path with the laser beam from the side of the flow path forming member, thereby forming an ink flow path. Provided is an ink jet recording head in which the tank holder and the flow path forming member that serve to form the ink flow path are surely connected by a small number of steps without producing foreign matters within the ink flow path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Osamu Morita
  • Patent number: 7971359
    Abstract: An apparatus for clipping a protrusion of material is provided. The protrusion may, for example, be a bolt head, a nut, a rivet, a weld bead, or a temporary assembly alignment tab protruding from a substrate surface of assembled components. The apparatus typically includes a cleaver having a cleaving edge and a cutting blade having a cutting edge. Generally, a mounting structure configured to confine the cleaver and the cutting blade and permit a range of relative movement between the cleaving edge and the cutting edge is provided. Also typically included is a power device coupled to the cutting blade. The power device is configured to move the cutting edge toward the cleaving edge. In some embodiments the power device is activated by a momentary switch. A retraction device is also generally provided, where the retraction device is configured to move the cutting edge away from the cleaving edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Babcock & Wilcox Technical Services Y-12, LLC
    Inventor: Fariborz M. Bzorgi
  • Patent number: 7971360
    Abstract: A power driven portable sheet metal cutter includes a head with two blades that mounts to a hand-held electric or pneumatic rotating power unit. The fixed blade has a primary shearing surface that has a convex or radiused cutting edge, a convex or radiused bevel, and a convex or radiused body feature. There is also a clearance radius and a nose radius so that the cutter can cut a wide variety of shapes and configurations of corrugated building panels. A head with a right hand set of blades predominately cuts curves to the right, and a head with a left hand set predominately cuts curves to the left.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Kett Tool Company
    Inventors: Mark Clark, Alexander Rozumovich
  • Patent number: 7971361
    Abstract: A portable circular saw has a housing and a baseplate. The housing carries a motor which is connected to a blade through a transmission mechanism. The baseplate includes a main baseplate and a secondary baseplate each of which has a bottom surface and the bottom surfaces are coplanar. At least a part of the blade passes though a slot formed in the main baseplate. The main baseplate includes a first edge and a second edge disposed on opposing sides of the blade. The secondary baseplate has at least two exchangeable positions. In a first position, the secondary baseplate is jointed or adjacent to the first edge of the main baseplate and, in a second position, the secondary baseplate is joined or adjacent to the second edge of the main baseplate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Chervon Limited
    Inventors: Masatoshi Fukinuki, Zhiguo Chen
  • Patent number: 7971362
    Abstract: A motor-driven saber saw includes a guide device releasably connectable with the saw housing (11) in a region of the neck (13) and including a guide element (21) for guiding the saber saw (10) over a workpiece, a connection device (22) for connecting the guide element (21) to the housing (11) and having at least one connection part extending along an axis (A) and connectable with the neck (13), with the guide element (21) being supported on the at least one connection part (24) for displacement along the axis (A), and with the guide device (20) further including at least one spring element (27) located between the at least one connection part (24) and the guide element (21).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Günter Haas, Bernhard Link, Adrian Steingruber, Eberhard Lang
  • Patent number: 7971363
    Abstract: A head portion of a holder incorporates a pair of support arms, which oscillatably support a razor head, and a pusher, which is pressed against the razor head. The razor head includes a blade body with a cutting edge. The razor head is supported by the support arms at both ends in the extending direction of the cutting edge of the blade body. The razor head includes a pair of supported portions and a pair of contact portions. The support arms include first outer arm portions, which support the supported portions such that the razor head is rotatable in an oscillating direction. The pusher includes a pair of second outer arm portions formed on both ends in the extending direction of the cutting edge of the blade body. The second outer arm portions are pressed against the contact portions. At least part of each second outer arm portion is arranged in a region extending through the associated first outer arm portions in a direction perpendicular to a plane containing a contact direction of the pusher.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Kai R&D Center Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Nakasuka
  • Patent number: 7971364
    Abstract: The invention relates to a monitoring device (20) of the position of an assembly containing nuclear fuel (4) in a housing of a storage basket (2). According to the invention, it comprises at least one mobile stop device (24, 26, 28) and a position indicator (30) suitable for being held at a stop by the mobile stop device in a first position indicating that the assembly occupies a first position, said mobile stop device being arranged so as to be able to be placed, by means of contact with the assembly located in a second position in its housing, in a position enabling it to release the position indicator devised to move automatically from the first position to a second position indicating that the assembly occupies the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: TN International
    Inventor: Roger Lahille
  • Patent number: 7971365
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for measuring a surface using a surface sensing device mounted on a scanning head on a member of a coordinate positioning apparatus. The coordinate positioning apparatus may be operated to produce relative movement between the scanning head and the surface profile and the scanning head includes a drive for producing rotational movement of the surface sensing probe about one or more axis. The coordinate positioning apparatus is driven to provide relative movement between the member and the surface profile in a circular path and the probe head is driven to move the surface sensing device about said one or more axes, such that the surface sensing device maintains a nominally constant lead angle. The motion of the coordinate positioning apparatus and probe head is synchronous.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Renishaw PLC
    Inventors: Stephen Paul Hunter, Geoffrey McFarland, Kevyn Barry Jonas, Khaled Mamour
  • Patent number: 7971366
    Abstract: An alignment tool removably attachable to a bit (e.g. a drill bit) for aligning a workpiece to the bit. The tool has a bit grip or a bit clamp which may have a pair of bit grippers, an aligner, which may be a pointer supported by a pointer mount, a stylus or a laser, and a mechanical linkage of the bit grip to the aligner. When the aligner is aligned with a target, a tip of a bit clamped by the bit grip would also be aligned with that target. A first stylus link may be movably connected to a second stylus link at the pointer mount. The first and second stylus links may be pivotally connected to the bit clamp. The bit clamp, the first and second stylus links may cooperate to align a central axis of the pointer with a central axis of the bit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventors: Christian David Seger, Stephen Mark Samuel
  • Patent number: 7971367
    Abstract: A distance-transferring device comprising a plurality of interconnected rails. Each rail, when extended, is self-supporting. Once the rails are extended and locked in place between two points, two planes, or one point and one plane, an accurate representation of a distance between the two points, two planes or one point and one plane is obtained. This distance can be transferred to another location without having to memorize a numerical measurement. Opposing abutting angled ends provide for both easy access into corners and a clear visual for when the abutting angled end contacts a plane or mark. A rotating component allows for operating the invention in more than one plane. A movable catch hooks onto an object such as wood moldings to facilitate the measurement transfer without adding any error to the distance being transferred. Extension stops prevent the rails from longitudinal separation. Bubble vials are provided for leveling both horizontally and vertically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventors: Stuart René Stengel, Jason Chartes Gonzalez
  • Patent number: 7971368
    Abstract: In a hand drying apparatus, an infrared light absorber absorbs infrared light, when a hand is not present, emitted from an infrared light emitter provided on an inner surface of a drying space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Fukaya, Syunichi Mori, Yasuyuki Itoigawa
  • Patent number: 7971369
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for drying floors and carpets using a fan for generating a pressurized air stream within a vertical cylindrical shroud that is spaced two to five inches away from the floor on a set of legs such that an opening is formed between the shroud and the floor. The air stream is directed along the cylindrical shroud vertically toward the floor. At least a peripheral portion of the air stream is exhausted from the shroud in a substantially laminar flow at an angle that is inclined from the vertical and is exhausted radially into ambient air as a substantially laminar air stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Roy Studebaker
  • Patent number: 7971370
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating a moving substrate of indefinite length. The apparatus has a control surface positioned in close proximity to a surface of the substrate to define a control gap between the substrate and the control surface. A first chamber is positioned near the control surface, with the first chamber having a gas introduction device. A second chamber is positioned near the control surface, the second chamber having a gas withdrawal device. The control surface and the chambers together define a region wherein the adjacent gas phases possess an amount of mass. Upon inducement of at least a portion of the mass within the region, the mass flow is controlled to significantly reduce dilution of the gas phase component in the adjacent gas phase. This is accomplished through the introduction of a controlled gas stream thereby reducing the flow of an uncontrolled ambient gas stream due to pressure gradients in the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Craig A. Miller, Nirmal K. Jain, William Blake Kolb
  • Patent number: 7971371
    Abstract: A clothes dryer has a degree of dryness control system that is responsive to moisture level of clothing articles tumbling in a drum and a target moisture value to control the drying cycle of the clothes dryer. The clothes dryer has a load size parameter producing module and an air flow detection parameter module. These modules generate one of two parameter conditions used by the processor to modify or select an appropriate moisture target value. The load size producing parameter module generates one of a small load input parameter and a large load input parameter. The air flow detection module produces one of a first and second air flow parameter to be utilized by the degree of dryness processor. As a result, the processor selects one of four target moisture values from these conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Mabe Canada Inc.
    Inventor: Sébastien Beaulac
  • Patent number: 7971372
    Abstract: An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure incorporates a support element that includes a fluid-filled chamber, a first insert, and a second insert. The chamber defines a first surface, an opposite second surface, and a sidewall extending between the first surface and the second surface. The first insert is secured to the first surface and at least partially recessed into the polymer material of the chamber, and the second insert is secured to the second surface. In addition, the chamber may be pressurized to deform the first insert or the second insert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony Macey, Scott Portzline, Michael Hui
  • Patent number: 7971373
    Abstract: A support sleeve for high heels on ladies's shoes with a sleeve body to accommodate a heel, the sleeve body having a substantially larger base than the base of the heel to be accommodated, and a fixing arrangement (36, 38, 46) for attaching it to the heel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Astrid Epping
  • Patent number: 7971374
    Abstract: An apparatus for use in footwear and the like, the apparatus having a primary body adapted to be mounted on a work object operable to perform a task; and at least two secondary bodies mounted on the primary body and adapted selectively to be moved by the work object in the performance of the task.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Peter J. Hernandez
  • Patent number: 7971375
    Abstract: A tooth system for a tool for earth moving machinery that includes a holder located on the tool and a front tooth portion that is detachably arranged on and in relation to the holder, which tooth portion is in the form of a replaceable wear/replacement part with a rear leg and the holder embodies a cavity designed to receive the leg of the tooth portion. This achieves a unified joint for assimilation of occurring loads via a predetermined connection geometry embodying special, opposite, mutually interacting contact surfaces and clearance surfaces arranged along the tooth portion and holder. The joint includes a multi-armed, preferably cruciform, cross section comprising at least four projection arms and at least four grooves each that interact with each projecting arm. Each projection arms includes a vertically arranged, upper arm, lower heel and two, essentially horizontally and laterally arranged, wing portions, with a tensioning device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignees: Combi Wear Parts AB, Vosta LMG B.V.
    Inventors: Adnan Gabela, Per Quarfordt, Cornelis Wempe, Klaas Wijma
  • Patent number: 7971376
    Abstract: A rocking head picture display device includes a casing and a rocking assembly received in the casing. The rocking device includes an electromagnetic device mounted to the bottom of the casing and a rocking device mounted to the top of the casing. The rocking device includes a pivotal shaft supported by the casing and a rocking arm extending downward next to the electromagnetic device. A circular plate shaped connector is eccentrically joined to the outer end of the pivotal shaft in front of the casing. A channel shaped base is joined to bottom of the casing to form a locating groove. A picture has a head portion adhered to the connector and a body portion rested in the locating groove. When the electromagnetic device is powered on, the rocking device is induced to swing with the connector and the head portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Chien-Hsun Tsao
  • Patent number: 7971377
    Abstract: A lenticular image display is provided for showing two or more changing images and/or three-dimensional (3D) motion effects, including a lenticular panel having an array of linear lenses, at least one image carrier bearing interlaced images disposed behind the lenticular panel in close contact with it, means for angularly aligning the lenses of the lenticular panel and the interlaced images of the image carrier, drive means for producing movement of the image carrier relative to the lenticular panel, a support disposed behind the image carrier, and partially compressed rings or other arcuate elastic elements disposed between the image carrier and the support, urging the image carrier in close contact with the lenticular panel, the arcuate elastic elements also being able to roll against the image carrier so as to facilitate the movement of the image carrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Qun Zheng
  • Patent number: 7971378
    Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic advertising panel for playing fields. The inventive panel is formed by modules consisting of a functional sandwich-type assembly comprising a metal plate (3), at least one polycarbonate sheet (4) and at least one PCB plate (5) which is equipped with LEDs (5.1). The components of the aforementioned assembly are joined using bolts (6) which are inserted into the metal plate (3) and which extend through the polycarbonate sheet(s) (4) and the PCB plate(s) (5). Said functional assembly is housed in a casing which is equipped with coupling means for joining modules and with support feet which can be rotated between a folded position and a use position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Odeco Electronica, S.A.
    Inventor: Sergio Campoy Odena
  • Patent number: 7971379
    Abstract: A firearm including a barrel having a chamber and an integrally formed upper receiver having a passageway, an accessory rail extending the complete length of the upper receiver, and a guidance feature extending along the passageway. The firearm also includes an operating rod having an anti-bounce mechanism, a bolt that is rotated counter-clockwise to lock against the chamber, a bolt carrier having a safety extension disposed below the bolt that prevents a hammer from striking a firing pin until the bolt is locked against the chamber, a lower receiver, a recoil spring assembly, and a fire control group. The bolt includes a polymer spring that biases a sliding extractor against the base of a cartridge. The sliding extractor is disposed at an angle ranging from thirty degrees to fifteen degrees on the bolt face to provide a low ejection angle from the firearm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: RMDI, LLC
    Inventors: Alexander J. Robinson, Darin G. Nebeker, Jon C. Holway
  • Patent number: 7971380
    Abstract: A break-open over-and-under rifle (21) comprising an upper barrel (23s) and a lower barrel (23i) assembled close to a breech (24) thereof in a sleeve (A) to which an action body (B) is hinged through a hinge pin (P), two symmetrical side seats (30) being made on the sides of the sleeve (A) at the sides of the upper barrel (23s) close to the lower barrel (23i) and close to the breech (24) of the barrels, each side seat (30) being intended to receive an extractor (60a, 60b) in sliding engagement actuated by a spring (6), for each of the extractors (60a, 60b) selector means (70) being foreseen fixedly connected to the sleeve (A) each able to be positioned in an engagement position of the corresponding extractor (60a, 60b) intended to limit its sliding or in a disengagement position of the corresponding extractor (60a, 60b) intended to allow it to slide freely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Fabbrica D'Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A.
    Inventor: Ugo Gussalli Beretta
  • Patent number: 7971381
    Abstract: The handgun safety apparatus provides a pair of loops, each of which wraps around a semiautomatic handgun so that the barrel/receiver, also sometimes referred to as the slide, and the trigger are prevented from operation. Even if a round is in the chamber of the handgun, the trigger cannot be operated. Further, the slide cannot operate to chamber a round, so the apparatus provides twofold safety. The apparatus is provided in a variety of sizes to fit a variety of handguns. Each of the loops has a rigid insert that provides rigidity. The inside of each loop is made of a material that will not mar the handgun in any way. The straps do not infringe upon the grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Larric D. Mikell
  • Patent number: 7971382
    Abstract: An improved firearm having a barrel coupled to an upper receiver where the receiver includes a passageway extending generally parallel to the longitudinal axis, and a guidance feature extending along the passageway generally parallel to the longitudinal axis. The firearm also includes a lower receiver coupled to the upper receiver and a recoil spring assembly comprising a mating attachment structure and a disassembly button disposed on a lateral side of the upper receiver. The mating attachment structure is attached to an attachment structure of the lower receiver to attach the lower receiver to the upper receiver. Actuation of the disassembly button detaches the mating attachment structure from the attachment structure to detach the lower receiver from the upper receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: RMDI, LLC
    Inventors: Alexander J. Robinson, Darin G. Nebeker, Jon C. Holway
  • Patent number: 7971383
    Abstract: A panel system for covering a lengthwise segment of an elongate firearm mounting rail. The panel system comprises at least one pair of identically shaped panel halves. Each panel half comprises a body having a top, a bottom, an abutting proximal edge and a distal edge. At least one axial tongue extends from the abutting proximal edge and a corresponding axial groove having a groove mouth is defined in the body. A cantilevered clip extends from the abutting proximal edge. A clip receptacle is defined by the body. A proximally extending lip extends from the body bottom near the distal edge. Each panel half is configured so that with the abutting proximal edges brought into abutment, each axial tongue of each panel is received in a corresponding axial groove of the other and each cantilevered clip engages the clip receptacle of the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Magpul Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Richard Fitzpatrick, Michael T Mayberry, Eric Christopher Burt, Mike J Baranello
  • Patent number: 7971384
    Abstract: A system for interchangeably mounting sighting devices on a plurality of firearms which includes one or more ring assemblies and one or more mounting assemblies. A sighting device is coupled to a mounting assembly using a ring assembly forming a mounting system. The system can then be mounted to one or more firearms using a single connector via two receptacles in the surface of the firearm. An entirely different sighting device and associated mounting system can be exchanged with the existing sighting device by removing the existing mounting system and replacing it with the new sighting device and mounting system. Each sighting device and mounting system are configured to have identical mounting assemblies that interface into standard receptacles in the firearm. In a similar manner a single sighting device and associated mounting system can be mounted on several firearms that each possess the two mounting receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Karl C. Lippard
  • Patent number: 7971385
    Abstract: An under ice crawler lowerable into a body of water through a hole in a layer of ice overtop is operable to extend a flexible line within the body of water between two points spaced along the ice. The crawler features a floating body having sliding surfaces defined at an upper limit thereof, a motor carried on the floating body to selectively drive a propeller, a connector carried on the floating body to facilitate the connection of the line thereto and a starting device carried on the floating body and actuable from thereabove. A termination device is carried on the floating body at a position distinct from that of the starting device to provide easy access. The starter device is actuable by lowering a starting-signal generator through the hole in the ice into proximity with a starting-signal sensor carried on the float body without requiring physical contact with the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventors: Archie D. Woodhouse, Ruth Woodhouse, legal representative
  • Patent number: 7971386
    Abstract: A system is disclosed that includes a selectively positionable brake for a towed fishing body. Additionally, a system is disclosed that includes a speed control for a planer board. The planer board is used for fishing by being towed through water. Moreover, a method is disclosed including positioning a brake attached to a towed fishing body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Ronald R. Garrett
  • Patent number: 7971387
    Abstract: A device for supporting a soft-bodied lure or bait includes a brace with a connector and a stop. Optionally, the brace is formed from a loop of wire. In such an optional embodiment, the connector may be formed by the loop. A stop may be sized and weighted to form weights. In an optional embodiment, the device may be received into an open-ended channel in the body of a lure or bait. In one such embodiment, the connector protrudes through one end of the channel and the stop protrudes through another end of the channel. A fishing line may be connected to the connector through a hook or the like received by the connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Huddleston Deluxe, Inc.
    Inventor: Samuel M. Huddleston
  • Patent number: 7971388
    Abstract: According to the present invention, there is provided a fungal bed cultivation method of a hon-shimeji mushroom, wherein induction of primordia of a fruit body is conducted by illumination under incubation conditions, and an ongoing culture for fungal bed cultivation of a hon-shimeji mushroom, wherein primordia of a fruit body have been formed thereon during incubation. The culture medium is maintained in a clean state and it is advantageous because the formation of primordia of a fruit body can be carried out in a clean environment and the culture medium wherein primordia of a fruit body have been formed can be transferred to distant mushroom cultivation facilities under clean conditions as such.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Takara Bio Inc.
    Inventors: Takashi Kawai, Katsuhiko Kusakabe, Akihiko Kita, Ikunoshin Kato
  • Patent number: 7971389
    Abstract: The invention relates to a process for increasing the amount of enzymes in a grain by germinating the grain in conditions in which the grain is wounded. The invention also relates to hydrolases obtainable from grains for use in food processing and manufacturing industries, to the germination of grains such as barley and to isolation of enzymes from grains.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignees: Protech Research Pty Ltd., Emu AG
    Inventors: Michael Patane, Mitchell Parker, Akshat Talwalkar, Bernard Parker
  • Patent number: 7971390
    Abstract: An irrigation apparatus provides water to one or more plants growing in a growing medium contained in a pot or tray. The irrigation apparatus includes a water container mounted to a base below the tray for vertical movement between an upper position and a lower position, in which the water container is urged toward the upper position. Also included is a water supply for supplying water to the water container, the water supply including a control valve having an open and a closed position for permitting and preventing flow of water into the water container, respectively, the control valve closes when the water container is in its lower position. The arrangement is such that when the water container contains water and is in its lower position, the surface of the water in the water container is at a predetermined distance below the underside of the tray supported on the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: D&K Products Limited
    Inventor: Malachi Christopher McKenna
  • Patent number: 7971391
    Abstract: A door driving apparatus includes a rotary actuator, a rotary transmission member integrally fixed to an output shaft extending from the rotary actuator, and a pair of linear transmission members opposed to each other via the rotary transmission member. The linear transmission members are configured to be in mesh with the rotary transmission member and to move approximately parallel to each other in opposite directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Fuji Electric Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hiroshi Harie
  • Patent number: 7971392
    Abstract: An opening and closing device includes a roller unit (10) which movably contacts a rail (203b) of a support frame (203), a pane frame support unit (20) which is provided in a pane frame (205) and moves away from and approaches the roller unit, a handle (5), which is rotatably provided on a leading end of the pane frame wherein rotation of the handle moves the roller unit relative to the pane frame support unit which causes the pane frame support unit and the pane frame to move vertically relative to the roller unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: LG Chem, Ltd.
    Inventor: Song-Won Seo
  • Patent number: 7971393
    Abstract: A door system includes a structural member and a door that is movably mounted with respect to the structural member for movement between an open position and a closed position. A spring is mounted with respect to the structural member or the door and being sufficiently positioned to bias the door toward its open position when the door is in its closed position. Active material based actuators may selectively compress the spring prior to door closure to minimize door closing effort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Xiujie Gao, James H. Shoemaker, Paul W. Alexander, Alan L. Browne, Nancy L. Johnson, Nilesh D. Mankame, Louise E. Stauffer, Robert L. Vitale, Jack L. Bailey
  • Patent number: 7971394
    Abstract: A replacement door having an adjustable locking mechanism that can be used to replace any number of doors employing locking mechanisms positioned at different heights. The locking mechanism, including a handle and plunger mechanism is engaged in the edge of the door and moveable up and down along a vertical path so as to adjust the height at which the plunger engages a preexisting opening in the door frame. When the mechanism is positioned at the desired height a wrap plate secures the mechanism in place. The replacement door may include a continuous hinge that can align with any hinge apparatus on the door frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventors: Michael T Dowling, William D Johnson
  • Patent number: 7971395
    Abstract: A multipurpose adjustable panel system having support beams continuously adjustable between zero pitch and a pitch exceeding zero, wherein support beam pitch is influenced by vertical adjustment of support post assemblies and by horizontal spacing of support post assemblies. Multiple mounting fixtures are incorporated to accommodate beam pitch adjustment including pivotable beam support fixtures adjustably and positionably secured along the bottoms of the beams and pivotable panel support node fixtures adjustably and positionably secured along the tops of the beams, the pivotable beam support fixtures and the pivotable panel support node fixtures enabling ready adjustment of the pitch of the beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Staging Concepts, Inc.
    Inventors: Todd S Vigil, Steven J. Zechmeister, Michael R. Hayden
  • Patent number: 7971396
    Abstract: A medical services unit for use in health care facilities where high security is required, such as in prison and psychiatric hospitals. The unit comprises a floor-to-ceiling column with an internal medical services section to provide a plurality of medical services. The medical services section is protected by a rotating steel door that prevents access to the enclosed services. The medical services section also includes a sub-door made of a transparent, shatterproof polymer, such as polycarbonate. Thus, the clear cover panel permits visual access to the gauges and controls for the services, but prevents unauthorized physical access to them. The column is entirely enclosed in a protective casing made out of rolled steel. Doors are provided in the casing for providing access b authorized personnel only to the internal medical services section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Modular Services Company
    Inventor: Taylor C. Culpepper
  • Patent number: 7971397
    Abstract: A tuned liquid damper comprising a housing with a hollow cavity within said housing and a first fluid which partially fills said hollow cavity. The inner surface of said hollow cavity is essentially spherical. The tuned liquid damper further comprises first fluid damping means arranged within the essentially spherical cavity of the housing. In this way, a tuned liquid damper is provided which has a response which is constant and independent of the orientation of the tuned liquid damper. Damping means are provided in order to be able to control the damping effect of the tuned liquid damper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: DTU, Technical University of Denmark
    Inventor: Christos T. Georgakis
  • Patent number: 7971398
    Abstract: A system and method for mounting photovoltaic solar panels onto a roof. The system includes first and second strut rails spaced from the roof employing a series of standoffs, the strut rails having a length, cross section, a base and side walls, side walls terminating with first and second turned in edges. First and second mounting fixtures are attached to the photovoltaic solar panels which are of a type and geometry enabling the solar panels to be removably appended to the strut rails. The first and second mounting fixtures can be applied to the photovoltaic solar panels before being elevated to a roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Tweedie
  • Patent number: 7971399
    Abstract: A stairway having an alternating series of risers and treads wherein two risers and a tread form a step structure for use in constructing the stairway. The step structure including a first riser having a front portion and a rear portion, a tread having a support surface and an opposite surface, a second riser having a front portion and a rear portion, and wherein the tread is positioned between the rear portion of the first riser and the front portion of the second riser and wherein the second riser of one step structure becomes the first riser of the next-up step structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen E. Ronsheim
  • Patent number: 7971400
    Abstract: Door frames, frame kits, component parts, jamb coverings, and depth extenders, all constructed with fiber reinforced pultruded structures, for entrance doors to buildings, both garage entrance doors and personnel entry doors. Some embodiments have a closed back wall. Others have an open cavity at the back wall to receive a reinforcing substrate. Some embodiments include a pultruded nosing block. Some embodiments comprise a pultruded depth extender, mountable on a jamb base to extend the depth of a door jamb. A mounting finger and a locking stud on the depth extender are mountable in cavities in the jamb base. A depth extender can be used to extend the depth of either a garage door frame or a personnel entry door frame. In an in-swing door frame, a door latch-side abutment surface is located on the side wall of the jamb base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Bay Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Gary L. Boldt, Todd Noskowiak, Todd A. Carlson
  • Patent number: 7971401
    Abstract: The invention relates to a construction module for erecting flat structures, particularly walls, comprising two parallel panel-shaped wall parts and a module core arranged between them. According to the invention, each wall part has a number of room-height solid squared timbers that are set on end. These squared timbers are joined to one another in an at least non-positive manner via a mechanical pinning placed transversal to the longitudinal direction of the squared timbers and extending in the plane of the wall parts, and/or these squared timbers are each pinned in an at least non-positive manner with at least two crossbars, which extend essentially transversal to the longitudinal direction of the squared timbers and which are located in the future module core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Hermann Preiss
  • Patent number: 7971402
    Abstract: A stack of a plurality of thin film adhesively bonded members are removably coupled to a ceiling. The adhesive is configured to allow an exposed layer to be removed without removing the entire stack of square members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Shawn Engberg
  • Patent number: 7971403
    Abstract: Plate-shaped cover material comprising an elastomeric layer and a plastically deformable metal mesh or metal plate, the elastomeric layer consisting of a glue or joint sealant cured to an elastomer and having strong adhesion to the metal mesh or the metal plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Inventor: Poul-Ernst Meier