Patents Issued in August 30, 2011
  • Patent number: 8006380
    Abstract: A method of replacing a damaged blade (12A) of an integrally bladed rotor assembly (10) including a disc (14) and a plurality of blades (12) extending outwardly from the disc (14) includes the steps of; removing the damaged blade (12A) to leave a blade stub (16) projecting from the disc (14); depositing a collar (22) of metal around the blade stub (16) at a position physically separated from the disc (14); attaching a replacement blade (12B) to the stub (16) by linear friction welding; and removing the collar (22). A body (20) of a material may be deposited between the disc (14) and the collar (22) to protect the disc (14) from damage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Rolls-Royce plc
    Inventors: Martin Rawson, Andrew T Webster
  • Patent number: 8006381
    Abstract: A method of modifying an existing casting mold for a turbine moving blade having a shroud band segment with an initial coupling geometry for coupling with a further shroud band segment, the coupling geometry having an initial coupling angle of the shroud band segment relative to a circumferential direction of the turbine, includes calculating a modified coupling geometry for the shroud band segment, the modified coupling geometry including a modified coupling angle of the shroud band segment relative to the circumferential direction. The method further includes creating at least one of a removal zone and an application zone, wherein the creating of the removal zone includes removing a first amount of casting mold material from the removal zone and wherein the creating of the application zone includes applying a second amount of an additional casting mold material to the application zone, wherein the removing and the applying steps result in the casting mold having the modified coupling angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Alstom Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Hartmut Haehnle, Ingo Schwarz, Christoph Nagler
  • Patent number: 8006382
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing flow selector disk for a fluid pressure regulator, including the steps of providing a plate having a first face and a second face, and forming at least one baseline orifice in the plate including a first diameter portion adjacent the first face and a second diameter portion adjacent the second face. The first and second diameter portions are spaced a distance from each other to form an annular ring therebetween. A central flow portion is formed through the baseline orifice that is in fluid communication with both of the first and second diameter portions. The central flow portion has a relatively smaller diameter than either of the first and second diameter portions. The method also includes the step of plastically deforming a portion of the annular ring adjacent the central flow portion to thereby reduce the diameter of the central flow portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: SP Medical LLC
    Inventor: Gary R. Austin
  • Patent number: 8006383
    Abstract: A frame and an ink-jet head including a nozzle plate and a fixed plate are placed on a first jig having a first face and a second face parallel to the first face and located outside the first face when seen in a direction perpendicular to the first face while being at a predetermined distance from the first face with respect to the direction perpendicular to the first face, in such a manner that a portion of the frame other than a portion formed with an adhesive layer is in contact with the second face, that an ink ejection face of the nozzle plate is opposed to the first face, and that both ends of the fixed plate are in contact with the adhesive layer. Thereafter, the adhesive layer is cured under a state where the ink ejection face is in contact with the first face, so that a head unit is manufactured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Atsuhisa Nakashima
  • Patent number: 8006384
    Abstract: A method of producing a pagewidth inkjet printhead includes forming a substrate having defined therein a nozzle chamber operable to receive and store a fluid, the chamber fed at one side by an inlet passage; forming a nozzle plate in-situ on the substrate to define a nozzle opening on an opposite side of the nozzle chamber to the inlet passage; and forming a heater element including an electrically conductive element between the nozzle opening and the inlet passage, the heater element formed such that the electrically conductive element is in direct contact with the fluid in the nozzle chamber. The heater element is cantilever supported at one end by the nozzle chamber. The electrically conductive element includes two major face, a first major face facing the nozzle opening, and a second major face facing the inlet passage, the first and second major faces both in direct contact with the fluid in the nozzle chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Silverbrook Research Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Kia Silverbrook
  • Patent number: 8006385
    Abstract: A forming method of a tooth trace of a gear according to the present invention includes: a first step of preparing a preformed gear made of metal including a cylindrical main body and a tooth part having a flat tooth flank having a uniform thickness in a tooth trace direction inside of the main body; and a second step of conducting a surface treatment locally to an outside surface of the main body in order to deform the outside surface of the main body in such a manner that the same becomes concave, so that a crowning bulging in the tooth trace direction is formed on the tooth flank of the tooth part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Musashi Seimitsu Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Akira Mataga
  • Patent number: 8006386
    Abstract: A method of forming an inner wall of a sidewall configuration of a trailer is provided which comprises the steps of: (a) providing a plurality of posts, each post having slots provided therethrough; (b) providing at least one pre-configured punching die; (c) providing a one-piece continuous liner; (d) securing the one-piece continuous liner to the plurality of posts; and (e) punching slots through the one-piece continuous liner with the at least one pre-configured punching die. In a first embodiment of the method, step (d) is performed before step (e). In a second embodiment of the method, step (e) is performed before step (d).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Wabash National. L.P.
    Inventor: Rodney P. Ehrlich
  • Patent number: 8006387
    Abstract: A method for processing parts. In one advantageous embodiment, a setoff set of studs are welded to a part to form a set of fixed studs. A set of tabs are attached to the set of fixed studs. The set of tabs are affixed to a manufacturing tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Michael L. Watts, Mark Michael Walker
  • Patent number: 8006388
    Abstract: A combination retractable saw and knife utility tool is disclosed that can be actuated and used by a person using only one hand. The tool has a lock to assure that an extended knife blade or saw blade will remain extended until the user of the tool releases the lock. A person may use one hand to hold, steady and manipulate a work piece that needs to be cut and/or sawed, while their other hand is used to hold and implement the combination knife and saw utility tool. The person may release the tool lock, retract one blade and extend another blade using only one hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas DeJesus
  • Patent number: 8006389
    Abstract: Pocket safety cutter devices include ergonomic blade housing and handle portions adapted to be safely folded together into compact closed configurations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Pacific Handy Cutter, Inc.
    Inventors: Dale E. Jennings, Glen Kanemoto, Yen-Chao Chung
  • Patent number: 8006390
    Abstract: A media cutting and ribbon curling device has opposing first and second surfaces bound by two side edges. The device includes a head comprising a cover and a guide disposed underneath the cover, the guide having an attached end and a free end and a blade disposed therein; and an elongated handle extending from the attached end of the guide, the handle comprising a ribbon curling region having (i) first and second ends, the first end disposed proximate to the attached end of the guide and (ii) a curling edge disposed on at least one of the first and second surfaces of the device, the ribbon curling region being tapered at its second end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventors: Gerald E. Mueller, Joy A. Packard, Scott D. Pearson
  • Patent number: 8006391
    Abstract: A releasably locking mechanism for locking and releasing the shank of a blade or other implement snugly within a receiver, wherein a magnetized ball extends through aligned holes in the shank and the first wall of the receiver, and seats in a smaller hole in the second wall of the receiver so that the equator of the ball is positioned on the side of the shank nearer to the second wall of the receiver. Unseating the ball and repositioning its equator to the opposite side of the shank, nearer to the first wall of the receiver, facilitates removal of the ball to allow removal of the shank from the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventors: Ronald G. Mashburn, Larry D. Mount
  • Patent number: 8006392
    Abstract: A support arrangement for a reciprocating tool comprises a first locking surface configured to engage a second locking surface in a locking engagement. The first locking surface is secured to the reciprocating tool. The second locking surface is provided on a support foot assembly. A shaft extends between the first locking surface and the second locking surface. The shaft defines a shaft axis that is oriented substantially orthogonal to the tool axis. An adjustment mechanism is positioned on the shaft. The adjustment mechanism is configured to move upon the shaft and clamp the first locking surface and the second locking surface together. In at least one embodiment, a ratchet arrangement is provided in the adjustment mechanism. The ratchet arrangement limits the extent that the adjustment mechanism may be tightened to clamp the first locking surface to the second locking surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Jaime Moreno, Jeff Gadams
  • Patent number: 8006393
    Abstract: A handle extension for a handheld razor or applicator pad comprising a fixed angle elongated body having a handle at one end for holding and manipulating said fixed angle elongated body and a gripping head at the opposite end for releasably fastening said handheld razor or applicator pad.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Christopher B. Collins
  • Patent number: 8006394
    Abstract: A method of laying out a grid of points across an area comprises designating a starting reference point; projecting with the laser beam a first reference line intersecting the first reference point and extending in a first direction relative to the area; designating the set of first line reference points along the first reference line; projecting with a laser beam a second reference line from each of the set of first reference line points in a direction at least partially across the area; designating a set of second line reference points at or near the area along each of the second reference lines, so that a grid of points across the area correlated to at least one laser beam projection is created. In this manner, the laser provides a quick and accurate straight line for referencing points in the grid. The method could be used to just lay out a grid of lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Musco Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas A. Tippett, David L. Barker, Steven T. Heaton
  • Patent number: 8006395
    Abstract: A bow sight that utilizes fiber optic wave guides as a basis for collecting ambient light and providing multiple sighting spots within the archer's field of view. The terminal ends of the fiber optic wave guides are positioned so as to have images thereof reflected on a moveable reflective plane (objective optic) within the bow sight. The multiple aiming spots thus reflected in the bow sight provide the archer with sighting spots for targets over a range of distances. A fixed angular reference indicator facilitates side to side (rotational) alignment. Each of the individual fiber optic wave guides collects ambient light and terminates in a terminal block that may be varied in its position so as to individually adjust the reflected image of the aiming spot. Various mechanisms within the fiber optic terminal block for adjusting the position of the ambient light wave guide are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Klint M. Kingsbury
  • Patent number: 8006396
    Abstract: A measuring device, for measuring a deviation of a body to determine an amount of shimming requisite for the body, includes an elongated member, a level indicating member, a gauge member and a jack screw member. The level indicating member is disposed on the elongated member. The gauge member is disposed on the elongated member, and the jack screw member is disposed adjacent to the gauge member on the elongated member. The elongated member may be placed on the body for measuring the deviation of the body to determine the amount of shimming requisite for the body. The jack screw member is capable of adjusting the elongated member on the body until the level indicating member indicates a horizontal orientation of the elongated member on the body. The gauge member is capable of measuring the deviation of the body, at the horizontal orientation of the elongated member on the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Donald Ilton
  • Patent number: 8006397
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided herein that provide for remote leveling and positioning. An embodiment includes a leveling device assembly. Another embodiment provides a system including a leveling device assembly and a plurality of audio devices. Further embodiments provide for systems having a plurality of leveling device assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Dick S. Schubert
  • Patent number: 8006398
    Abstract: A measurement system has a surface sensing device mounted on an articulating probe head, which in turn is mounted on a coordinate positioning apparatus. The surface sensing device is moved relative to a surface by driving at least one of the coordinate positioning apparatus and probe head in at least one axis to scan the surface. The surface sensing device measures its distance from the surface and the probe head is driven to rotate the surface sensing device about at least one axis in order to control the relative position of the surface sensing device from the surface to within a predetermined range in real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Renishaw PLC
    Inventors: Geoffrey McFarland, Kenneth Cheng Hoe Nai, Nicholas John Weston, Ian William McLean
  • Patent number: 8006399
    Abstract: An apparatus for measuring a surface of a workpiece is described. The apparatus comprises a support, attachable to the moveable arm of a machine, such as a coordinate positioning machine, and rotatable about first and second axes of rotation, the axes driven by first and second motors respectively. The apparatus additionally comprises a surface sensing device for sensing the surface of a workpiece, rotatable about a third axis of rotation. This third axis of rotation is alignable with the first axis of rotation, and when aligned, rotation of the support relative to the surface sensing device is actuatable by the first motor. A method for using an apparatus for measuring a surface of a workpiece is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Renishaw PLC
    Inventors: David Sven Wallace, Peter Hajdukiewicz, Geoffrey McFarland
  • Patent number: 8006400
    Abstract: Baby scales include a housing, a weighing tray, a measuring device and a display. The weighing tray is disposed on the housing and configured to hold a baby. The measuring device is configured to support the weighing tray and to determine a weight of the baby. The measuring device includes at least one of an electric length measuring device configured to measure a length of the baby and an attachment mechanism configured to attach the electric length measuring device. The display is configured to show the determined weight of the baby.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Soehnle Professional GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Stephan Gerster
  • Patent number: 8006401
    Abstract: The cut-out tool (10) includes an insert adaptor (22) configured to insert into and be secured within a utility receptacle (12) prior to sheeting material (16) overlying the receptacle (12), such as an electric receptacle (12). The insert adaptor (22) defines a mounting sleeve (30), and whenever the sheeting material (16) is secured over the receptacle (12) and insert (22), an insert hole (84) is cut adjacent and around an interior perimeter of the mounting sleeve (30). A mounting post (34) of an exterior template (32) is then secured within the mounting sleeve (30), and the exterior template (32) defines a cutting slot (42) that is dimensioned to contiguously and substantially overlie an exterior perimeter (28) of the receptacle (12). A cut is them made through the cutting slot (42) to define a template hole (86), and the sheeting material (16) then slides over the receptacle (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Allan Shapiro
  • Patent number: 8006402
    Abstract: A moving vector calculation unit calculates a moving vector M representing a quantity and a direction of movement of a probe on basis of a stylus displacement vector, a stylus displacement vector D, and a direction change angle ? of the stylus displacement vector D that is caused by a frictional force between a stylus 32 and the measuring surface 5a during scanning of the measuring surface 5a by the stylus 32. The stylus displacement vector D is a vector including a quantity and a direction of position displacement of the stylus 32 relative to the probe 5. Movement of an XY-stage 7 is controlled so that the probe 6 moves in accordance with the moving vector M.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Keiichi Yoshizumi, Masateru Doi, Takayuki Kurata
  • Patent number: 8006403
    Abstract: An edge detect system, using a torch height control system based on the use of a free floating probe in contact with the workpiece, uses a drop in pressurized air supplied to the probe tip in contact with the workpiece when the probe moves off the plate edge to generate a signal that prevents the torch from following the free floating probe downwardly and thereby prevents the cutting tool from crashing into the workpiece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Messer Cutting Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Alan E. Anderson
  • Patent number: 8006404
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method and device for adjusting the fitting depth of a tool in a tool-holder, in particular in a tool-holder to be banded. The method is characterized in that it consists in performing a prior calibration of a sensing assembly (2) by positioning a sensing slide (4) of said assembly (2) into a bore (V) of a calibrating support (1) and by re-setting a viewing means of said sensing assembly (2), then in positioning the sensing assembly above a tool-holder and moving the adjustable stop of said tool-holder towards the sensing slide (4), so as to determine a travel thereof corresponding to the required fitting depth. The invention is applicable in the field of the environment of machine-tools, more particularly comprising tool-holders to be banded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: E.P.B.
    Inventor: Freyermuth Alain
  • Patent number: 8006405
    Abstract: A caliper includes two legs pivotably connected together at first ends thereof. Second ends of the legs can abut opposite first and second sides of an object to be gauged. Each leg includes first and second faces extending between the first and second ends. A scale is formed on the first surface of each leg. Each leg further includes an inclined surface between the first and second faces. The size of the object is indicated by an intersection of the scales. The inclined surfaces of the legs abut third and fourth faces of the object so that the gauging result is reliable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Bobby Hu
  • Patent number: 8006406
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for drying and reducing the particle size of malleable material. Preferred embodiments of the invention include a drying apparatus for use with a malleable material, comprising a blower, an airlock feeder, a main line which contains an accelerator, a conditioning chamber, and a dehydration chamber, a polishing line which contains an accelerator, a conditioning chamber, and a dehydration chamber, and a squid line blower for providing pressurized heated air to the apparatus. An alternative preferred embodiment of the invention comprises a method of drying and size reducing malleable material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: H. Clay Dingee, IV
  • Patent number: 8006407
    Abstract: A drying system (100) for use in drying out a water-damaged structure includes a blower (105) for providing outside air to the water damaged structure. An indirectly fired furnace (101) is used for heating the outside air prior to its introduction into the water-damaged structure. An exhaust blower (114) removes humid air from the water-damaged building, and one or more remote temperature and humidity sensors (117) are used for controlling the furnace air temperature and supply blower volume. An air intake filter box (111) is used for adding make-up air to recirculated building air and promoting cooling within accompanying trailer. A differential air pressure transmitter (118) controls the volume of moist air removed from the water damaged building to an optimal rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Richard Anderson
  • Patent number: 8006408
    Abstract: Impact-attenuating elements include a plurality of impact-attenuating members and a means for releasably securing the impact-attenuating element to at least one of the upper member or the sole member of a piece of footwear or other foot-receiving device. The impact-attenuating elements may be included in the footwear or other foot-receiving devices in a selectively removable manner so that a user, retailer, or another can customize and freely select an appropriate element, e.g., depending on user preferences, characteristics of the user, characteristics of the intended use, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Ross Leedy, Anthony Carl Dean, Christopher S. Cook
  • Patent number: 8006409
    Abstract: A spike assembly for sport shoes includes a base with a tubular portion. A plurality of protrusions extends from the base portion in an axial direction of the base portion. Each protrusion includes an inclined side and a vertical side with a rounded portion connecting between the inclined side and the vertical side. A spike member includes a screw portion which is securely connected to the tubular portion, and a plurality of blocks extends from the spike member. Each block includes a curved protrusion facing the screw portion. The screw portion is connected to the tubular portion, and the curved protrusions are guided along the inclined sides of the protrusions and then, are stopped by the vertical sides of the protrusions. The spike member does not become loose by the weight of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventors: Kuming Chen, Hsien Ping Chen
  • Patent number: 8006410
    Abstract: The invention relates to a shoe, especially for sport or leisure, comprising an upper, a sole and a lacing device having at least one clamping strip passing through a space arranged at the level of the sole and a clamping element. The clamping element is attached, on the one hand, to a first end of the clamping strip and, on the other hand, to a holding zone placed at the rear of the shoe. The second end of the clamping strip, passing through the clamping element comprises an attachment device on the upper, allowing the fixing of the strip. Cooperation exists between the clamping strip, the clamping element and the holding zone causing tensing of the upper at the level of the instep and the articulation above the heel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Decathlon
    Inventors: Sandra Romboli, Olivier Weber, Maxime Roux
  • Patent number: 8006411
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sliding element for a shoe sole. The sliding element includes an upper sliding surface and a lower sliding surface, wherein the lower sliding surface is arranged below the upper sliding surface so as to be slideable in at least two directions. The upper sliding surface can form a lower side of an upper heel cup and the lower sliding surface can form an upper side of a lower heel cup, wherein the upper heel cup and the lower heel cup have corresponding substantially spherical shapes. Complex multi-dimensional sliding and cushioning movements between the upper sliding surface and the lower sliding surface are made possible by the corresponding three-dimensional shapes of the two substantially spherical surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: adidas International Marketing B.V.
    Inventors: Gerd Rainer Manz, Timothy David Lucas
  • Patent number: 8006412
    Abstract: A collapsible snowshoe is provided. The snowshoe includes a frame having a first supporting cross-bar configured to interact with a second supporting cross-bar, wherein the cross-bars are configured to alternate between an open position and a closed position, a first supporting material configured to be coupled to the cross-bars and further configured to extend between the cross-bars, whereby the extended supporting material creates a support surface for walking when the cross-bars are in the open position; and a frame-locking mechanism configured to secure the cross-bars in the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventors: Debra J. Kreutzer, James S. Page, Matt E. Page
  • Patent number: 8006413
    Abstract: A snowplow assembly may include a support member, a mount member, and an actuator. The mount member may be operatively connected to a plow blade and pivotally connected to the support member and the mount member may pivot about a substantially vertical axis with respect to the support member. The mount member may include a first stop member for limiting the pivotal motion of the mount member about the substantially vertical axis in a first direction. The actuator may pivot the mount frame about the substantially vertical axis and a first end of the actuator may be operatively connected to the snowplow assembly and a second end may be pivotally connected to the mount member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Meyer Products LLC
    Inventor: Shawn Washburn
  • Patent number: 8006414
    Abstract: A multipurpose bucket for a front end loader is provided. The multipurpose bucket includes a second frame rotatably connected to a first frame to provide a pincer configuration and a scooping configuration. The first frame includes a bottom of the rear bucket wall; a pair of rear side walls with a plurality of pincer teeth; and a plurality of support arms extending from the rear bucket wall. The second frame includes a bucket floor having a pincer end and a scraper end; a pair of circular front side walls extending from the bucket floor to the pivot point, which increases the volume of the bucket and reduces spills; a plurality of pincer teeth extending from the pincer end of the front side walls; a rear plate extending from each of the pivots, attached to the front side walls, which forms the top of the rear bucket wall which increases the volume of the bucket; and a scraper blade extending from the scraper end of the bucket floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Mark A Leonard
  • Patent number: 8006415
    Abstract: A connector for connecting an implement to a digger or other prime mover is mountable on the digger and has a recess for receiving a connecting pin mounted on the implement. The connecting pin is retained in the recess by a retaining pin that is mounted on the connector. The retaining pin has a head that is seated on a face of the recess and a cylindrical tail portion that is received in a passage formed in the connector to secure the retaining pin on the connector with the head projecting into the recess adjacent the connecting pin. There is clearance between the head and the connecting pin and the head is shaped so that the clearance is reduced to a minimum when the retaining pin is rotated in the passage. The connector advantageously comprises spaced apart side walls joined together by across member in the form of a bent plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Bas Manufacturing Limited
    Inventor: Bruce Archibald Short
  • Patent number: 8006416
    Abstract: Improved pressing machines for pants, in reference to FIG. 1B an upper portion pressing machine for pants. The framework (11) has a contour shape of the upper portion of a pair of pants, making it easier to drape the upper portion of the pants over the machine for pressing. In reference to FIG. 2B a pressing machine for pressing the inseams and out seams on the legs of a pair of pants. The pressing framework (42) is wider at the rear side and narrower at the opposite end, allowing relatively small and large pants to be pressed. In reference to FIG. 3C the pressing machine is to be used on creased pants. The framework plate (73) has an indention (74). The seams of a pair of pants are aligned with the indention, when the plate (73) is brought down, it will not touch the seams. The pants are left with no impressions or shiny marks. All three pressing machines have steam and vacuum valve connections and are manually operated, by stepping on the foot pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Mehmet Serif Aydin
  • Patent number: 8006417
    Abstract: An advertising device, where one exemplary use is as a “stripper pole” having associated ad material. The ad material can be placed inside a portion of the pole and be visible through a protective cover, and be dynamic. Additionally, the stripper pole may be in a variety of sizes and shapes and may include lighting, rotating mechanisms, engraving and suspended objects. The advertising device includes a connecting element that attaches to at least one end, and optionally between two ends, with a gap between an inner element and an outer element where advertising material can be placed in the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Pole Postitioning, LLC
    Inventor: Aaron Montell
  • Patent number: 8006418
    Abstract: A plurality of patterns 40a through 40e comprising a plurality of plotting lines 41a to 41e of a predetermined width drawn parallel to each other at predetermined intervals and drawn inclined with respect to the axial direction of a can 3 are provided in staggered positions at intervals corresponding to the width of the plotting lines 2. Meanwhile, a plurality of linear opaque portions 21 of a predetermined width alternating with a plurality of linear transparent portions 22 of a predetermined width are provided parallel to each other on a cylindrical heat-shrink film 1 at an inclination angle corresponding to the angle of the plotting lines 41a through 41e on the can 3. This cylindrical heat-shrink film 1 is then mounted on the outside of the can 3. In this way, a container with screen part on which the pattern can be changed is provided in a way not possible before.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Suntory Holdings Limited
    Inventor: Toshiya Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8006419
    Abstract: A window display materials holder for holding window display material for viewing from the outside of a vehicle. The holder includes a flexibly-rigid body having an insertion edge and a gripping edge. The insertion edge is designed to be inserted between a window and trim adjacent thereto. The gripping edge has gripping structure. The flexibly-rigid body is substantially coplanar to the window when the insertion edge is inserted between the window and the trim adjacent thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: George Walter Kabalka
  • Patent number: 8006420
    Abstract: A retractable banner stand includes a canister with an extendable banner having an ad and/or message thereon viewable when the banner is extended. A kit comprised of a pair of end caps with foldable legs and a pole support are releasably engaged to the canister and can be removed without tools. The kit can be releasably engaged to a second canister, without tools, with the second canister containing a second banner with a different (or new) ad and/or message to thus facilitate changing banners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignees: The Portables Exhibit Systems Limited, Downing Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Lyle D. Merner, Gabriela P. Merner, legal representative, James T. I. Landecker
  • Patent number: 8006421
    Abstract: A street sign, made typically at least in part using an extrusion process, having a flat elongated section where the name of a street can be inscribed or otherwise indicated, and a length of thickened section along the top edge or the bottom edge of the flat elongated section, and including a channel or slot along at least a portion of the length of the thickened section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Ibis Tek, LLC.
    Inventor: Michael R. Rykaczewski
  • Patent number: 8006422
    Abstract: A cushioned wristband includes a carrier having a multi-layered band portion and a strap sewn to the back of the band portion of the carrier. The band has a surface with loop material and the strap has a surface of hook material, the hook and loop surfaces being intended to secure the band in place as it is wrapped about a patient's appendage. The strap is appropriately sized to insert through one or both of two cinch slots of a self-laminating hang tag which may be printed with patient information and separated from a sheetlet or page sized business form processed through a printer for imaging of patient information thereon. The band portion of the carrier includes a cushioned layer of soft foamy or spongy material for contacting a patient's skin to thereby substantially eliminate any possibility for abrasion, rash, or other irritation or injury to the patient through wearing of the wristband.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Laser Band, LLC
    Inventor: James M. Riley
  • Patent number: 8006423
    Abstract: An improved magazine follower for use in existing magazines such as a 30 round magazine comprises a follower plate, a base plate, and a spring. The follower plate comprises a top plate, a convex follower leg, and a concave follower leg. The external shapes of the top plate, the convex follower leg, and the concave follower leg mirror the interior profile of the magazine, constraining the motion of the follower plate to a well-defined path within the magazine. The method of attaching the spring to the follower plate and the base plate in addition to the shape of the spring keeps the spring from “wobbling” or moving off a vertical axis of the spring as rounds of ammunition are loaded or dispensed. Consequently, the present system reduces binding or jams within the magazine, improving performance and life of the magazine follower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: The Unites States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Army
    Inventors: Ronny Alzamora, John Heinsohn, Adam Foltz
  • Patent number: 8006424
    Abstract: A stand secures a loaded firearm in an inoperable condition for quick release to an authorized user in the event of an emergency. A housing serves as a base for the stand. A mechanism fixed to the housing prevents the firearm from firing. For example, a rod fixed to the housing is inserted through the muzzle and into the bore until it extends into an empty chamber of a revolver or into the receiver of an automatic pistol. Another mechanism mounted on the housing is operable between a first position in which it permits engagement of the firearm on and disengagement of the firearm from the rod and a second position in which it prevents disengagement of the firearm from the rod. The operating mechanism may be actuated manually by a key or electronically by a key pad, a fingerprint recognition pad or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Thor H. Ligard
  • Patent number: 8006425
    Abstract: The present invention is a spring-biased folding firearm that stows compactly and safely. The firearm has three main components: a stock, a receiver and a grip/magazine combination. In folding, the stock folds over the receiver, sandwiching the grip/magazine between the components. When folded, the magazine over-inserts into the grip housing, allowing the stock to clear and providing additional safety when stowed by isolating the ammunition feed. A buttplate latches over the open joint to contain the unit and further secure it. When stowed, the bolt is disengaged from the ammunition feed supply, preventing accidental firing, so a loaded round can be safely carried in the chamber—allowing for immediate use of the firearm upon opening. The weapon is deployed through single-handed actuation and is spring-assisted into firing position. Currently the firearm uses readily available aftermarket parts for easier replacement if necessary and does contain hardware for mounting accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Magpul Industries Corp.
    Inventors: Eric C. Burt, Richard M. Fitzpatrick, Michael T. Mayberry
  • Patent number: 8006426
    Abstract: The shooting rest apparatus provides for a shooter to effectively engage moving targets as well as stationary targets. Among the advantages provided by the forestock-only grip of a rifle within the apparatus is that firearms with extended magazines protruding from the bottom of the firearm are accommodated. Felt recoil reduction is a further desirable benefit provided by an adjustable recoil adjustment mechanism. Recoil is absorbed through fore and aft movement only, without barrel elevation. Pistols are also supported by the apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventor: Jim Carroll
  • Patent number: 8006427
    Abstract: A boresight apparatus and methods for use of same with a gun system are provided. The gun system includes a gun tube and a pointing device. The boresight apparatus is installed on an outside surface of the gun tube. Once the gun tube is adjusted to a desired gun-tube orientation, the boresight apparatus determines the gun-tube orientation, including an azimuth, an elevation, and a roll of the gun tube. The pointing device determines a pointing-device orientation at the desired angle. The gun system may be boresighted by adjusting the pointing device based on the gun-tube orientation. The pointing accuracy performance of the gun system may be determined based on offsets between the gun-tube orientation and the pointing-device orientation. The boresight may determine an azimuth using optical technologies, such as lasers, with a precision survey or using north-finding techniques with gyroscopes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: William M Blevins, Scott G Fischer
  • Patent number: 8006428
    Abstract: A sighting device is mountable to a gun. The device includes a light source (preferably a laser), a power source connectable to the light source and a mount attachable to the gun so that the laser is juxtaposed either the top surface of the gun or a side surface of the gun. In one embodiment, the sighting device includes a bottom rail mountable in a slot on the gun, wherein the slot is preferably positioned on the top surface of the gun. The sighting device may also include a mechanical sight that functions as the rear mechanical sight on the gun and/or a secondary light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventors: Larry E. Moore, Aaron Moore
  • Patent number: 8006429
    Abstract: A locking turret knob includes an adjustment member, a first member, and a second member. The adjustment member is adjustably positionable about an axis of rotation. The first member is disposed in proximity to the adjustment member and has at least one engagement member. The second member is disposed in proximity to the adjustment member and has at least one engagement surface. The adjustment member is adjustably positionable about the axis of rotation when each engagement member does not engage an engagement surface. The adjustment member is locked in a selected position about the axis of rotation when at least one engagement member engages an engagement surface. The adjustment member can be coupled to an adjuster of an optical enhancement device, such as a telescopic sight, a telescope or a microscope.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Assignee: Leupold & Stevens, Inc.
    Inventor: Bernard T. Windauer