Patents Issued in September 20, 2011
  • Patent number: 8020580
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a no-leak drain pipe connector for a fluid filter which helps prevent the splashing of hot fluid on individuals performing filter element and oil changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Purolator Filters NA LLC
    Inventors: Rajan Ahuja, L. Steven Cline
  • Patent number: 8020581
    Abstract: A secondary drainage funnel for use in combination with a laundry box having a bottom wall with a drain opening formed therein includes a generally hollow body having an upper end and a lower end. The upper end includes an inlet opening for receiving a secondary drainage discharge tube. The lower end has a discharge opening formed therein and is shaped to be supported on the lower wall of the laundry box proximate the drain opening with the discharge opening in fluid communication with the drain opening while leaving sufficient access to the drain opening to allow a laundry drain hose to be inserted therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Sioux Chief Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Frank D. Julian, Truman J. Stegmaier
  • Patent number: 8020582
    Abstract: An excess flow valve having a housing, a valve seat, a poppet and an adjusting ring. The adjusting ring lies within a bore in the housing and there is an opening through the housing permitting access to the adjustment ring from outside the bore of the housing. Rotation of the adjusting ring controls the maximum travel distance between the poppet and the valve seat. In an embodiment a travelling valve guide is rotatably mounted within the adjustment ring to change the maximum travel distance between the poppet and the valve seat. A spring may bias the poppet and the valve seat away from each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Plainsman Manufacturing Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A. Lea-Wilson, Dan Brian F. Fajayan
  • Patent number: 8020583
    Abstract: The invention concerns a hydraulic valve arrangement (1) with at least two valve modules (2-6), each having a supply channel arrangement with a high-pressure channel (9) and a low-pressure channel (15), a working connection arrangement with at least one working connection (A, B), one directional valve arrangement (16) between the supply channel arrangement (9, 15) and the working connection arrangement (A, B) and a compensation arrangement (19), which is acted upon by a pressure in a load-sensing arrangement. It is endeavored to increase the number of control possibilities. For this purpose, the load-sensing arrangement of at least one valve module (2-6) has a pressure influencing arrangement (25-29) that differs from a pressure influencing arrangement (25-29) of a load sensing arrangement of another valve module (2-6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Aps
    Inventors: Thorkild Christensen, Siegfried Zenker
  • Patent number: 8020584
    Abstract: A variable valve for impact dispersal of a force, such as a force caused by an impact or explosion. The apparatus includes a valve with a spring biased piston that engages an outlet bore as the piston moves in response to the pressure of a fluid at an inlet port. The valve is in fluid communication with a cylinder that receives an impulse force. The fluid flow from the cylinder is controlled by the variable valve, which disperses the force accordingly at a controlled rate. In one embodiment, a pressurized reservoir is connected to an extension valve and a check valve that allows the cylinder to be filled with fluid from the reservoir when the extension valve is actuated. Applications for such a system include connection to aircraft seats and to aircraft landing gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Phillip W. Love
  • Patent number: 8020585
    Abstract: A leak detection system for detecting a leak within a duplex valve assembly is disclosed. The duplex valve assembly includes a first valve, a second valve and an intermediate fluid flow passageway fluidly interconnecting the first valve to the second valve. The leak detection system includes a means for indicating whether the first valve is maintained in a closed position or an open position, a means for indicating whether the second valve is maintained in a closed position or an open position, and a pressure change detector within the intermediate fluid flow passageway. The pressure change sensing means is at least partially positioned within the intermediate fluid flow passageway for detecting a pressure change within the intermediate fluid flow passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Airgas, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Shock, Steven Weiss, Andrew Mieczkowski
  • Patent number: 8020586
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for one-step flow control at a micro-channel crossing comprises a first micro-channel and a second micro-channel, a plurality of magnetic valves, and a guiding magnet. The guiding magnet produces a proximal magnetic field gradient at a location of each of the plurality of magnetic valves when an operator places the guiding magnet in a vicinity of the chip. The vicinity of the chip comprises a plurality of guiding magnet position ranges. The operator repositions guiding magnet in order to actuate the plurality of magnetic valves simultaneously. Depending on the position of the guiding magnet, the passages are blocked or unblocked to stop or let the fluid flow in a given crossing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Emmanuel Delamarche
  • Patent number: 8020587
    Abstract: A piston-in-sleeve accumulator includes a cleaning element positioned on the piston and configured to remove and prevent debris from lodging between the piston and a cylindrical nonpermeable sleeve within which the piston slides. A seal on the piston is positioned to engage an opposing surface in the event of a leak, and thereby prevent the possibility of a complete drainage of pressurized fluid from occurring through the accumulator's fluid port. A position contactor switch is further provided to signal position of the piston within the accumulator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
    Inventor: Charles L. Gray, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8020588
    Abstract: A tire repair solution can includes a body and a cap closed on the body. The cap is provided with an intake, an outlet, and a guide tube extending from the underside of an intermediate portion into the body. Then an exterior tube is connected with the intake and also with an air compressor. A one-way air valve is fitted in the intake, and the guide tube has a through hole in its wall, and a slide block is fitted on the through hole to close it up. The outlet has a back-pressure valve fitted inside, and is connected with a connect tube for connecting with a joint to be connected with an air valve of a tire. Then the tire repair solution can is possible to be used in a normal position and in an inverted position, convenient to operate and saving time and labor largely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Min-Hsieng Wang
  • Patent number: 8020589
    Abstract: A hydrogen dispensing station and method of operating a hydrogen dispensing station for dispensing to multiple receiving vessels. The station and method limit receiving vessel gas temperature during dispensing. Various components used to limit receiving vessel gas temperature during dispensing are mutual to multiple hydrogen service ports. Receiving vessel gas temperature during dispensing may be affected by pressure ramp rate control, cooling of hydrogen in a heat exchanger, and/or use of a lower temperature hydrogen source stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Perry Cohen, Tama Maya Copeman
  • Patent number: 8020590
    Abstract: Nozzle for filling a container with at least a first and a second viscous or paste-like material, of the type including an outer cylindrical body having a delivery mouth. The nozzle has at least two cylindrical chambers, placed inside an outer cylindrical body and fluidly separated, for the respective passage of the first and of the second viscous material, each of the at least two chambers having an outflow section of the relative viscous material substantially positioned in correspondence to a delivery mouth.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: TGM Tecnomachines S.R.L.
    Inventor: Giancarlo Togni
  • Patent number: 8020591
    Abstract: A stump cutter tooth held by a pocket member, which has first and second edge, and the pocket member being operatively attached to a driven wheel, which has opposite first and second side surfaces. The stump cutter tooth includes an elongate tooth body that has an axial forward end. A first hard region is at the axial forward end of the tooth body and defines at least one distinct cutting edge that has an orientation to engage the stump during operation. A second hard region is at the axial forward end of the tooth body and is distinct from the first hard region. The second hard region provides protection to at least a portion of the pocket member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignees: Kennametal Inc., Vermeer Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Gary W. Kappel, Thomas R. Lyng, Cary D. Ritchey, Don C. Rowlett
  • Patent number: 8020592
    Abstract: The invention provides a power tool planer which includes a drum with at least one blade thereon located within a chamber in the tool housing. One end of the chamber is provided with an opening which can be selectively closed by a guard. The guard can be moveable between a first closed position and a second position in which the chamber is opened, and the guard is moved into a recess in the housing to improve the ability to use the tool in confined spaces, as the guard lies flush with a side wall of the housing. Also provided is a dust and debris extraction system and a means for adjusting the depth of cut obtained using the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Power Box AG
    Inventor: Marcus Nicolson
  • Patent number: 8020593
    Abstract: A method of changing the distance between a rotary cutter disposed on a carriage assembly and a work surface. The method includes the steps of providing a first mechanism on the carriage assembly for making small distance changes between the rotary cutter and the work surface and providing a second mechanism on the carriage assembly for making larger distance changes between the rotary cutter and the work surface. The user selects one of the first and the second mechanisms to adjust the distance between the rotary cutter and the work surface and then activates the selected one of the first and the second mechanisms. Activation of the second mechanism automatically disengages the first mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Woodpeckers, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard M. Hummel
  • Patent number: 8020594
    Abstract: The invention relates to a debarking mechanism (1) for the decortication or pretreatment of logs (2) for separately performed final debarking and for the discharge of at least some of the bark removed from a wood stream passing through the debarking mechanism, the said debarking mechanism comprising a number of rotatable debarking shafts (3, 3?) extending parallel to an advancing direction (A) of the logs (2) to be fed therethrough, which are provided with a number of teeth (4) extending beyond the circumferential surface of the shaft (3, 3?).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Andritz Oy
    Inventor: Pekka Kokko
  • Patent number: 8020595
    Abstract: A plurality of shallow grooves which are shallower than a sipe are formed on land sections formed on treads of a pneumatic tire. The shallow grooves are configured so that a total sectional area of the shallow grooves per unit area in a cross section in a tire width direction in at least one of tread end areas arranged at end sides of the tread surface in the tire width direction or land end areas arranged at portions adjacent to a drain main groove on the land sections becomes larger than a total sectional area of the shallow grooves per unit on the other areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Bridgestone Corporation
    Inventors: Yukihiro Kiwaki, Ryoichi Watabe, Kenichi Shibata, Kazuyoshi Tagawa
  • Patent number: 8020596
    Abstract: The present device is an integrated automotive wheel for electric vehicles which substantially reduces energy loss due to tire flex and energy loss from a conventional drive train. The wheel includes an axle, a hub, two composite sidewalls, a low pressure inner chamber with shock absorbing hub protector, and at least one outer high pressure pneumatic chamber with tread. The hub can contain an electric hub motor which rotates the wheel, propelling the vehicle. The sidewalls include at least one pressurized chamber which position the outer tread ring and enable the wheel to simulate an energy efficient high pressure pneumatic wheel, experiencing little deformation when under smooth road conditions. When road conditions are rough, the sidewalls can temporarily buckle in response to the increased road forces, simulating a low pressure conventional tire having ample space for deformation, with suspension and shock absorption capability built in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Glenn Arthur Morrison
  • Patent number: 8020597
    Abstract: The invention is directed to increasing the endurance of a tire by providing an oxidation shield strip located in the vicinity of a critical area of the tire. The oxidation shield strip acts as a local oxygen diffusion barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Kevin Ellwood, John Baldwin, David Bauer, David Rohweder
  • Patent number: 8020598
    Abstract: A label affixing apparatus enables an RFID tag to be affixed to a product at a distance from the product. The apparatus comprises: a folding/affixing device which conveys a label, a label holder holds a front surface side of the label, a folding device causes a part of the label including a tag attachment site to project by folding the part from a rear surface side to the front surface side into an angular shape. Either traction is suppressed when the label is affixed to the product. A reader/writer has an antenna in a position facing the part of the label when the part of the label is folded, for reading and writing information from and to the RFID tag. A fold detector detects if the label is folded. The label holding device moves between a label suction position and a label affixing position. Folding is assisted from a rear surface side of the part of the label.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Sato
    Inventors: Kouji Kirita, Toshiaki Abe, Hayato Ito, Kenji Murakami, Hiroyuki Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8020599
    Abstract: A method for mounting a film, used to fabricate a mask for use in screening an electronic device, to a common carrier frame. The common carrier frame has an outer edge along an outer periphery and an opening in a central portion of the frame. The method includes applying external pressure to the frame outer edge to compress the frame inward and reduce the opening, securing a film to the frame, the film covering the frame opening, and releasing the pressure on the frame to expand the opening and place the film in tension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Robert L Baan, Harry D Cox, John P Gauci, John R Lankard, Jr., David C Long, Thong N Nguyen
  • Patent number: 8020600
    Abstract: A sheet sticking apparatus includes a first feeding device for feeding out a first sheet having an adhesive layer on one surface thereof, a second feeding device for feeding out a second sheet, and a folding device for folding the second sheet. The sheet sticking apparatus further includes a pressing device for sticking the folded second sheet to the adhesive layer of the first sheet so as to overlap the folded second sheet and the adhesive layer of the first sheet together, and for pressing the first sheet in a state where the adhesive layer of the first sheet is partially exposed out of the second sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Lintec Corporation
    Inventor: Kenji Kobayashi
  • Patent number: 8020601
    Abstract: A machine for equipping articles with labels, such as vessels or similar items, including at least one carousel which transports the articles, at least one exchangeable labeling aggregate which is arranged on the periphery of the carousel for equipping the articles, where, on the periphery of the carousel, at least one stationary floor-supported aggregate reception for a labeling aggregate is arranged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Krones AG
    Inventors: Erich Eder, Thomas Oestreicher, Dieter Leykamm
  • Patent number: 8020602
    Abstract: A control system for a top down/bottom up covering for an architectural opening includes a common drive shaft for raising and lowering a middle rail and a bottom rail between which a flexible shade material extends. A control element operates a spool lift system and a roller lift system, with the spool lift system being associated with the middle rail and the roller lift system being associated with the bottom rail. The lift systems are sequentially operated when the drive shaft is driven in either direction by the control element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen P. Smith, Kent A. Smith, James L. Miller, Terrence M. Drew, Suzanne M. Fujita
  • Patent number: 8020603
    Abstract: A blocking element for a gate used as a checkpoint includes a housing having a height, a support having a second height and arranged in the housing, a horizontally directed pivot axis furnished on the support, and a pair of blocking vanes each of which are in a form of a circle sector, wherein the pair of blocking vanes are mounted, by way of a tapering sector inner side of the blocking vanes and such that the blocking vanes can pivot about the horizontally directed pivot axis. A drive motor is connected to the blocking vanes on the pivot axis, wherein the drive motor in response to a signal, slides one of the blocking vanes into the other in a telescopic manner from a position which blocks a passage of the gate into a position, which opens the passage of the gate, and wherein the blocking vanes can be drawn apart from one another in order to again block the passage of the gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Magnetic Auto Control GmbH
    Inventor: Thomas Bürgin
  • Patent number: 8020604
    Abstract: A method for the layered construction of models is disclosed, whereby at least one first material is applied to a building platform and then a second material is selectively applied in layers. Both application steps are then repeated until the desired model is obtained and the both materials form a solid body with a desired mixing ratio. The first material comprises a moulding sand and the first and/or the second material comprises a binder, comprising a crystalline salt binder, or/and a protein binder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Rainer Höchsmann
  • Patent number: 8020605
    Abstract: A steel slab caster having a mold with movable opposing mold faces, and methods of using the steel slab caster for casting steel slabs. The movable opposing mold faces may be laterally positioned with respect to each other in a predefined configuration. Molten steel may be introduced into the mold of the slab caster. The forces exerted by the molten metal on at least one of the opposing mold faces and/or the lateral positions of the opposing mold faces may be monitored during casting at locations on at least one of the movable mold faces. The position of the monitored mold face may be controlled during casting responsive to the monitored forces and/or monitored position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Nucor Corporation
    Inventors: Adam J. Shutts, John Carlton Elinburg, II, Jonathon David Otts, George Gurley, David Walton Parsley
  • Patent number: 8020606
    Abstract: A method of making a wax mold for a golf club head includes the steps of: a) positioning a male die in a cavity of a female die; b) injecting and filling dissolvable wax into a gap between an outer surface of the male die and an inner surface of the female die; c) cooling and solidifying the dissolvable wax in the gap to obtain a wax shell; d) removing the wax shell from the male die and the female die, the wax shell being provided with a hole extending through inner and outer surfaces of the wax shell; and e) inserting a wax plug into the hole to form the wax mold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: O-TA Precision Industry Co. Ltd.
    Inventors: Hsiao-Wen Chao, Lung-Sheng Sun, Yung-Yueh Liu
  • Patent number: 8020607
    Abstract: The present invention provides a pipe for a heat exchanger. The header includes a tube insertion hole for insertion of a tube, a filler metal groove formed in a length direction on one side or both sides at a point separated from the tube insertion hole, and a filler metal that flows down following the tube and the periphery where the tube and tube insertion hole come in contact. Filler metal is inserted in the filler metal groove so as to enable brazing fusion. A lead groove is formed between the tube insertion hole and filler metal groove and provides a pathway so as to enable smooth flow of the filler metal, and so that molten filler metal can flow smoothly into the fused areas between the tube and header pipe in desired locations and amounts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Modine Korea, LLC
    Inventors: Ki-Hun Kim, Yong-Ki Baek, Hyeong-Ki Kim
  • Patent number: 8020608
    Abstract: Systems, methodologies, and other embodiments are associated with a heat sink with a fin configured with a stator blade. One example includes a heat sink apparatus configured to experience a fan-assisted air flow. The example heat sink apparatus may be configured to include a fan that is configured to produce an air flow in the heat sink apparatus and a heat sink that houses the fan. The example heat sink may include a base and fins that are configured with stator blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventors: Andrew Douglas Delano, Brandon Aaron Rubenstein
  • Patent number: 8020609
    Abstract: A heat sink assembly includes a heat sink and a clip. The clip includes a main body, two pressing portions extending outwardly from two opposite ends of the main body, two extension portions each extending upwardly from an outer end of a corresponding pressing portion, a locking arm extending slantwise and upwardly from an upper end of each extension portion, a U-shaped operating portion extending from a far end of the locking arm and a J-shaped hook extending from a free end of the operating portion. The operating portion is provided for receiving a depressing force acting on the clip for moving the hook to engage with a clasp on a printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignees: Fu Zhun Precision Industry ( Shen Zhen) Co., Ltd., Foxconn Technology
    Inventors: Juan Du, Cui-Jun Lu
  • Patent number: 8020610
    Abstract: The invention relates to an exhaust gas heat exchanger in an exhaust gas recirculation arrangement. The heat exchanger includes a plate stack which is surrounded by a housing. The plate stack can include two plates which are connected at their longitudinal edges to form a flat tube which contains a turbulator through which exhaust gas flows. The heat exchanger can also include a coolant duct which is equipped with flow directing elements arranged between two flat tubes. In order to make the exhaust gas heat exchanger more resistant to changing temperature stresses, the invention provides that the flow directing elements can be formed from a corrugated plate in which ducts with inlets and outlets are formed. At least some of the ducts in the inlet area of the coolant have a nonlinear profile so that changes in length are permitted between the plate stack and the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Modine Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Jörg Soldner, Sven Thumm, Roland Strähle, Harald Schatz
  • Patent number: 8020611
    Abstract: A heat dissipation device includes two heat pipes, three extruded heat sinks and a heat conducting plate. Each heat pipe has a substantially G-shaped configuration and includes a heat absorbing section and first and second heat dissipating sections. The first and second heat dissipating sections extend along opposite directions, wherein the second heat dissipating section is located above the first heat dissipating section. Each heat sink includes a main body and a plurality of fins extending from the main body. The main body of each heat sink has a same profile with that of each heat pipe. Each heat pipe is sandwiched between the main bodies of two adjacent heat sinks. The heat conducting plate is attached to the main bodies of the heat sinks and the heat absorbing sections of the heat pipes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignees: Fu Zhun Precision Industry (Shen Zhen) Co., Ltd., Foxconn Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Peng Liu
  • Patent number: 8020612
    Abstract: The invention relates to a stacked-plate heat exchanger for cooling charge air, having at least one first flow duct (21) for at least a first medium LL to flow through, and at least a second flow duct (22) for at least a second medium (KM) to flow through in order to cool the first medium (LL), wherein the at least one first flow duct (21) and the at least one second flow duct (22) are formed between adjacent plates (8, 9), and at least one plate (8, 9) has at least a first opening (12) for the first medium (LL) to flow through and at least two second openings (13) for the second medium (KM) to flow through into the at least one second flow duct (22), the at least one first opening (12) being arranged at least in certain sections between the two second openings (13), wherein the first opening (12) is at a smaller distance, at least in certain sections, from a central section (MA) of the stacked-plate heat exchanger (1) than one of the second openings (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Behr GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Jürgen Wegner
  • Patent number: 8020613
    Abstract: A heat transfer controlling mechanism and a fuel cell system, which allow working fluid to flow in a predetermined direction in a loop-shaped flow path without a back flow, having a simple structure independent of the orientation during use, low power consumption, and efficient heat transfer and size reduction. The mechanism includes a vaporizing portion, a condensing portion, and a loop-shaped flow path connecting the vaporizing and the condensing portions so as to seal working fluid. The mechanism transports heat by vaporizing the fluid in the vaporizing portion and condensing the fluid in the condensing portion to control heat transfer. The mechanism further includes a gas passage suppressing portion on one side in the flow path, for allowing liquid, but not gas, to pass therethrough and a liquid passage suppressing portion on the other side in the flow path, for allowing gas, but not liquid, to pass therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toru Nakakubo
  • Patent number: 8020614
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, particularly for use as a hydrocarbon well bore and pipeline cleaning and maintenance aid. The apparatus includes a decomposition engine having an inlet manifold extending centrally within the housing and having means for passage of hydrogen peroxide through the manifold wall through a catalyst stack. The decomposition products produced are directed through an exit venturi. The decomposition products are passed through a piping system which allow the selective venting or introduction of the products into a facility to be cleared. Control means are coupled to the engine and valving to allow for the selective adjustment of temperature and or pressure of the decomposition products, as well as the introduction and diversion of the blend into the facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignees: Hobson Leasing Inc.
    Inventors: Russell B Hobson, III, Samuel A Miller, III
  • Patent number: 8020615
    Abstract: An efficient truck-mounted injection system for injecting a combined aqueous or hydrocarbon-based liquid stream and a liquid carbon dioxide stream via a well into a subterranean formation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventor: Randal L. Decker
  • Patent number: 8020616
    Abstract: A system for use in a well includes downhole equipment for positioning in the well, and an optical fiber for deployment in the well, the optical fiber to extend to a location of interest in the well in proximity of the downhole equipment. An analysis unit analyzes detected light signals returned from the optical fiber that has been affected by acoustic events generated by the downhole equipment and to determine a status in the wellbore based on the analyzing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventor: Robert Greenaway
  • Patent number: 8020617
    Abstract: A method of treating a formation with a well treatment fluid comprising a clay stabilizer comprising a polyamine ether before or during a well treatment such as cleanup, gravel packing, fracturing, or the like. The stabilizer can continue to inhibit fines migration in the treatment zone even after an aqueous fluid without the stabilizer, e.g. a production fluid or injection fluid, displaces the original treatment fluid. When the stabilizer is used in a viscoelastic system (VES) with an acid blend component, the viscosity of the VES is essentially unchanged relative to the VES alone without the stabilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Sudhir Shenoy, Mehmet Parlar
  • Patent number: 8020618
    Abstract: Solid latex powders are employed as additives to control gas migration during the cementation of subterranean wells. Preferably, the latex additives are based on vinyl-acetate or styrene-butadiene based polymers. The additives are particularly useful in low-temperature applications. Methods to prepare cement slurries comprising the latex additives, and methods pertaining to the cementation of subterranean wells are also presented.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Barlet-Gouedard Véronique, Ermel Michel, Daniel Sylvie
  • Patent number: 8020619
    Abstract: Methods for severing tubing having a cable extending along its length include lowering a first cutting torch into the tubing to a desired location, igniting the first cutting torch, and directing cutting fluids in a circumferential arc to form a first cut in the tubing and sever the cable. A second cutting torch can be lowered and positioned relative to the first cut, and ignited to direct cutting fluids radially to cut the tubing all around the circumference, enabling retrieval of the tubing. The need for precise positioning and alignment of the torches to sever both the cable and tubing is thereby eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Robertson Intellectual Properties, LLC
    Inventors: Michael C. Robertson, William Boelte
  • Patent number: 8020620
    Abstract: Methods of making and using wellbore casing are described, one method comprising providing a plurality of flow-through passages in a portion of a casing while the casing is out of hole; temporarily plugging the flow-through passages with a composition while out of hole; running the casing in hole in a wellbore intersecting a hydrocarbon-bearing formation; and exposing the composition to conditions sufficient to displace the composition from the flow-through passages while in hole. Methods of using the casing may include pumping a stimulation treatment fluid through the casing string and into a formation through the flow-through passages in the first casing joint; plugging the flow-through passages in the first casing section; and exposing a second casing joint of the casing string to conditions sufficient to displace the composition from the flow-through passages in the second casing joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: John Daniels, George Waters, Mark Norris, J. Ernest Brown, Ian D. Bryant, Kevin Mauth, Jason Swaren
  • Patent number: 8020621
    Abstract: In one aspect, an apparatus is disclosed that includes an anisotropic nanocomposite element in thermal communication with a heat-generating element for conducting heat away from the heat-generating element along a selected direction. In another aspect, a method of conveying heat away from a heat-generating element is disclosed that includes transferring heat from the heat-generating element to an anisotropic nanocomposite element that is configured to conduct heat along a selected direction, and transferring heat received by the anisotropic nanocomposite element to a heat-absorbing element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventors: Rocco DiFoggio, Roger Fincher
  • Patent number: 8020622
    Abstract: A downhole annealing system includes a component to be annealed; a steam generating catalyst in proximity to the component; and a reactant fuel selectively communicative with the catalyst to produce an exothermic reaction and method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Baker Hughes Incorporated
    Inventor: Bennett M. Richard
  • Patent number: 8020623
    Abstract: A subsea control module for providing control of subsea equipment is provided. The design allows for replacement and retrieval of a subsea control module with a single remotely operated vehicle (“ROV”) deployment from a vessel. The subsea control module can provide distributed electrical and hydraulic control functions via multiple directional control valve modules, multiple pilot valve modules, and a central electronic control module. Each directional control and pilot perform a set of functions so that replacement of a single module does not require disassembly of any other components) or hydraulic connection. Similarly, each pilot valve module can include a set of pilot valves, pressure transducers, solenoids and electronic circuitry to perform a limited set of functions so that failure of a single pilot valve module does not result in failure of the entire subsea control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: DTC International, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Parks, Dana C. Beebe, Chester W. Kronke
  • Patent number: 8020624
    Abstract: A technique is provided for pumping fluids in a subterranean wellbore. A submersible pumping system can be deployed in a wellbore for moving desired fluids within the wellbore. The pumping system energizes the desired fluid movement by reciprocating a working fluid between expandable members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Schlumberger Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Murat Ocalan, Steven Dornak
  • Patent number: 8020625
    Abstract: A method and apparatus of expanding tubing. The method may include expanding a first portion of an expandable tubing into contact with a surrounding tubing using an upper expander; expanding a second portion of the expandable tubing that extends beyond the surrounding tubing using a lower expander; and further expanding the first portion of the expandable tubing using the lower expander, thereby expanding the surrounding tubing. The apparatus may include a fluted expander coupled to a first end of the expandable tubing; and a collapsible cone disposed inside the expandable tubing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: Lev Ring, Carel W. I. Hoyer
  • Patent number: 8020626
    Abstract: An improved multi-bolt and nut torque wrench for installing and removing bolts or nuts from flanged joints or the like which includes a plurality of torque stations having a plurality of high torque wrenches for engaging the heads of the bolts or nuts during a high torque phase of removal or installation; a plurality of low-torque motors operatively engaged with the wrenches for rotating the bolts or nuts during the low torque phase of removal or installation; a source of hydraulic fluid for driving the low-torque motors during the low-torque phase, and driving the high-torque wrenches during the high torque phase; and a mechanism for switching between the two phases depending on the torque needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Inventors: Dale Francis, Nicholas Francis, William P. Bernard, Oswald J. Bernard, Lan Hiscox, Brian Compton, Arthur Jones
  • Patent number: 8020627
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to an apparatus for supporting a tubular that more evenly distributes stress along the contact length of a tubular. In one embodiment, an apparatus for supporting a tubular is provided. The apparatus includes a bowl having a longitudinal opening extending therethrough and an inner surface for receiving a gripping member. The gripping member is movable along the surface of the bowl for engaging the tubular. The apparatus is configured so that an upper portion of the gripping member will engage the tubular before the rest of the gripping member engages the tubular.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Weatherford/Lamb, Inc.
    Inventors: David Shahin, Karsten Heidecke
  • Patent number: 8020628
    Abstract: A fire extinguishing device comprises an extinguishing agent tank and pressurised gas generation means such that the generated gas can enter into the tank when the extinguishing agent is to be ejected on a fire area. The device according to the invention also comprises means of regulating the pressure inside the extinguishing agent tank: thus, the pressure inside the tank remains controlled with time, with a profile predetermined by the user as a function of regulatory parameters and criteria, in order to optimise the action of the extinguishing agent and the necessary quantity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventors: Christian Fabre, Christophe Bourdet, Philippe Mangon
  • Patent number: 8020629
    Abstract: A low till agricultural implement has a frame with a hitch for attachment to a tractor. An shallow-angled blade gang composed of an array of parallel ultra-shallow inclined disk blades is mounted to the front of the frame, and is followed by at least one wheel, spiral reel, and spike tooth harrow. The ultra-shallow inclined disk blades are mounted perpendicular to rotating shafts, and slice through field residue and soil with minimal lateral movement of material. The blades of the following reel then make cuts nearly perpendicular to those made by the circular blades. A trailing rolling basket or other finishing implement follows the spiral reel. The implement aids in drying the soil surface layer. Also, by cutting up residue and evenly spreading debris and topsoil, the implement helps to warm up the soil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: McFarlane Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Stanley McFarlane, Aaron J. Faessler, Rick K. Kohn