Patents Issued in January 31, 2012
  • Patent number: 8105166
    Abstract: The invention is a fantasy vault system and method for operating a fantasy league, such as a fantasy sports league. The system is independent from the league participants, namely, a fantasy league commissioner and fantasy competitors. Fantasy data providers provides data whereby the performance of the fantasy competitors can be scored and ranked. Different league accounts can be associated with respective distinct data providers. A data provider can be a fantasy host. The system is, therefore, adapted to scoring competitors based on competition data represented in a plurality of formats. The system may accept default and alternate award schemes from commissioners, the particular scheme to be used depending upon the number of competitors paying their entry fee by a deadline. Entry fees from the fantasy competitors are not handled by the league participants, but are deposited into an account in the vault system, from which they may be transferred to a bank account.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Ty W. Cayce, Daniel V. Howard
  • Patent number: 8105167
    Abstract: A game machine is communicatively connected to a game server and display-outputs a game screen showing a content corresponding to the player's operation by exchanging data with the game server. The response time to the operation is stabilized, and consequently the player does not feel stress due to a variation of the response time to the operation. A reference time storage unit (38) stores a reference time from the player's operation to the display-output of the game screen showing contents corresponding to the player's operation. A waiting unit (32) awaits the display-output of the game screen showing a content corresponding to the player's operation according to the stored reference time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Konami Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shoji Mori
  • Patent number: 8105168
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention provide systems and methods relating to online gaming utilizing virtual playing instruments generated from physical playing instruments. According to one aspect of the invention, physical playing instruments are utilized in a gaming environment that may be scrambled, shuffled, and/or played remotely over a network. In one embodiment, the physical playing instruments are traditional poker-style gaming playing cards. The playing instruments include at least one identifier that may be read upon being dealt, such as identified and stored on a computer-readable medium before a game. In one such embodiment, computer-executable instructions may utilize the information on the computer-readable medium in conjunction with one or more games. Further aspects relate to validating the playing instruments and/or systems before, during, and/or after conducting one or more games with the playing instruments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Gioia Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Gene George Gioia, Andrew Nicholas Gioia, Brendan Michael Fogarty
  • Patent number: 8105169
    Abstract: A portable electronic device (100) has a long sideways housing (10) whose both ends are held by the hands of a user and an LCD fitted in the surface of the housing (10). Bulges (42L, 42R) projecting outward are formed on both end portions of the rear face of the housing (10), which both end portions being held by fingers of the user holding the housing. When the fingers and palms of user's hands are placed along the bulges (42L, 42R) with the fingers and palms bent naturally, the device fits the hands and operability is less likely to be impaired even the user violently moves in game play with the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Sony Computer Entertainment Inc.
    Inventors: Shinichi Ogasawara, Masayasu Ito, Hajime Ishihara, Nobutoshi Hamada, Shuuichi Miyazaki
  • Patent number: 8105170
    Abstract: A plurality of first oil passageways are recessed in an annular projected portion of a bearing cup of a cross shaft joint, each first oil passageway communicating with inner and outer periphery sides, and being increasing in groove width gradually from the outer periphery side toward the inner periphery side. A plurality of second oil passageways are recessed in the annular projected portion, and each second oil passageway is disposed between the first oil passageways, and communicates with the inner and outer periphery sides, and is decreasing in groove width gradually from the outer periphery side toward the inner periphery side. When the bearing cup is angularly moved relative to a cross shaft, grease in the first oil passageways is flowed from the outer periphery side of the annular projected portion to the inner periphery side thereof, while grease in the second oil passageways is flowed from the inner periphery side of the annular projected portion toward the inner periphery side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: JTEKT Corporation
    Inventors: Koichiro Mizuno, Kouji Kawaguchi
  • Patent number: 8105171
    Abstract: A high-precision torque limiting mechanism capable of limiting an output torque to a magnitude of not more than a prescribed value, as well as to reduce a frictional torque produced upon occurrence of a slip. To accomplish this object, a ball ramp section (13) is attached to a slip clutch section (3) for reducing friction between friction plates (31) and (32) forming the slip clutch section (3) and limiting a torque to be transmitted by utilizing an axial thrust produced at the ball ramp section (13) in accordance with the magnitude of an input torque. The precision with which the torque to be transmitted is limited is enhanced by making improvements to the shape of an internal side surface of a recess (G) formed in each of cam elements (131) and (132) of the ball ramp section (13).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Shimadzu Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroaki Murakami
  • Patent number: 8105172
    Abstract: A bearing assembly includes a rotatable hub defining a load transfer surface. A porous bearing surrounds and is movable relative to the hub. The bearing includes bearing surfaces extending radially toward the hub. A grease is disposed between the porous bearing and the hub. The grease includes a grease base oil and functions as a lubricant between the hub and the bearing. The grease generally maintains separation between the transfer surface and the bearing surfaces while simultaneously removing debris from an area defined between one of the bearing surfaces and the transfer surface. A bearing base oil is impregnated in the porous bearing and is substantially similar to the grease base oil for replenishing the grease base oil as the grease base oil is depleted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Walter J. Maciag
  • Patent number: 8105173
    Abstract: A playset is operable to be erected on a site and includes a slide and an adjustable-height slide base. The slide base includes an adapter that attaches below the slide and at least one standoff that attaches below the adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Backyard Leisure Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher W. Connors, Ernie D. Sheets
  • Patent number: 8105174
    Abstract: A billiards player rating system includes a computer, a display associated with the computer, and at least one storage device. The computer determines a universal rating for a billiards player by prompting the entry of break counts of the billiards player into the computer with a user interface displayed on the display, determining a current average and a best average of the break counts entered into the computer for the billiards player, and calculating the universal rating for the billiards player from the current average and best average of break counts. The billiards player rating may be the only function of the computer or the computer may be a general-purpose computer which may selectively function in that manner by executing a computer program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Paul E Schofield, Sr., Stephen M Schofield
  • Patent number: 8105175
    Abstract: A golf club head is presented comprising a sole including a removable panel secured to the sole via a non-threaded attachment assembly. Further, the removable panel may have a large surface area relative to its thickness, resulting in a chip-like or wafer-like weight member. This design allows the mass of the removable panel to be spread substantially along the surface of the sole as opposed to in the interior of the club head. The golf club head may comprise more than one removable panel. A removable panel of the present invention may generally comprise one or more discrete areas of higher basis weight or higher density. Even further, the removable panel may generally be releasably attached via a quick disconnect mechanism that allows easy interchangeability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Acushnet Company
    Inventors: Joshua G. Breier, Karl A. Clausen, Douglas E. Roberts, Peter L. Soracco
  • Patent number: 8105176
    Abstract: A head for a golf club, such as a putter, having a bottom surface, a heel end, a toe end and a striking face. The striking face has a planar primary portion and a secondary portion each extending from one of the two ends and meeting at an intermediate point. Each point along the striking face has a normal direction extending normally outwardly from the striking face relative to a plane tangential to the striking face at that point. The normal direction to each point on the secondary portion is directed away from the toe end. Striking a ball off of the secondary portion imparts an additional angle to the trajectory of the ball to compensate for the tendency of right-handed golfers to let the club head drift or angle when attempting left-to-right breaking putts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: John Andrew Upenieks
  • Patent number: 8105177
    Abstract: A golf swing training apparatus including a golf club guide and, preferably, a support frame having spaced apart front and rear frame members connected together by a base frame member. The support frame is adjustably inclined at the lie angle of the golf club by a support arm. The golf club guide includes closely spaced apart front and rear guide ring segments which define a substantially planar circular shaped golf club swing slot therebetween, the swing slot having an unobstructed preferably adjustable width for free swing a golf club therewithin. The front guide ring segment is attached to and is supported by the front frame members while the rear guide ring segment is attached to and is supported by the rear frame member. An economy embodiment is also provided. A substantially flat club shaft guide supportively aligns the golf club shaft at the lie angle of the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: William C. Turner
  • Patent number: 8105178
    Abstract: Releasable golf club head/shaft connection systems and methods allow one to change shafts on a single club head, change club heads on a single shaft, and/or change the angular orientation features of a golf club. Such systems may include: (a) a club head body including a hosel and a locking nut stabilizer; (b) a shaft releasably engaged with the club head body, wherein an end of the shaft includes a retaining member that is inserted into the club head body; and (c) a locking nut engaged with a side surface of the club head body such that a body portion of the locking nut extends at least partially through the hosel and is supported by the locking nut stabilizer. The locking nut is movably engaged with the club head body such that it securely holds the shaft or allows the shaft to be removed therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond J. Sander
  • Patent number: 8105179
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for an improved handle configuration are disclosed. The apparatus and method include an upper handle secured to a shaft that has a longitudinal axis and a lower handle secured to the shaft opposite the upper handle at a location spaced from the upper handle along the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The upper handle and lower handles each have grip portion that extends at an angle substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis and that is spaced apart from the shaft in a plane that is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The upper handle and lower handle are secured to the shaft at an end of the shaft opposite a device configured to contact an object when the shaft is swung.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Donald T. Allen
  • Patent number: 8105180
    Abstract: The present invention provides a method of manufacture and design such that very small detail features can be produced within the groove profile on an iron or wedge. The advantage in being able to do this is that spin will be enhanced for a variety of shot types and conditions when striking a golf ball with cover composed of a urethane-based material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Callaway Golf Company
    Inventors: Matthew T. Cackett, Augustin W. Rollinson, Alan Hocknell
  • Patent number: 8105181
    Abstract: A golf club head, according to one or more aspects of the present invention, comprises a metallic striking wall having a striking surface and at least one through score-line opening. At least one complementary component may be disposed rearward of the striking surface such that at least a part of the at least one complementary component extends into only a part of the at least one through score-line opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: SRI Sports Limited
    Inventors: Mark Blumenkrantz, Michael J. Wallans
  • Patent number: 8105182
    Abstract: A cavity back golf club head having a bridge member is disclosed. The bridge member extends across a first rear cavity connecting a heel and a toe of the golf club head to control the trajectory of a golf ball. For the longer iron clubs, a wall extending from the sole portion of the cavity back golf club head to the bridge member defines a second cavity to further influence the trajectory of the golf ball. For the shorter iron clubs, the wall extends from the top portion of the cavity back golf club head to the bridge member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: John T. Stites, Michael G. Taylor, David N. Franklin, Byron C. Slaughter
  • Patent number: 8105183
    Abstract: The invention relates on one hand to a celluloid-free table-tennis ball, preferably having a diameter of 38.5 to 48 mm, a weight between 2.0 and 4.5 grams, and a shell thickness (approximately) between 0.20 mm and 1.30 mm, where the shell is composed of plastic, whose principal component is an organic non-crosslinked polymer, which in its main chain has not only carbon atoms but also heteroatoms; and on the other hand also to a process of manufacturing a table-tennis ball of this kind, where mostly in a first step two or more shell parts are manufactured, these shell parts are joined in a subsequent step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: In Sook Yoo International Project Management—IPM
    Inventors: In Sook Yoo, Thomas Wollheim
  • Patent number: 8105184
    Abstract: A sports product may include a support member and an impact region configured to impact an object. The impact region may be coupled to the support member. The sports product may also include a shear thickening material in at least one of the support member or the impact region. The shear thickening material may be configured to exhibit shear thickening behavior when an impact occurs between the impact region and the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Head Technology GmbH
    Inventors: Herfried Lammer, Harald Rosenkranz, Johan Kotze, Ralf Schwenger
  • Patent number: 8105185
    Abstract: A shuttlecock including a cap and a skirt part whereto an air passage hole is formed, wherein a rib is provided to the skirt part, adjacent to a rear end of the air passage hole in a generatrix direction of the skirt part, the rib having a shape wherein air pressure difference is generated between an air flow passing through the air passage hole to flow on an inside of the rib and an air flow not passing through the air passage hole but to flow on an outside of the rib, and an aerodynamic force directed from the inside of the rib to the outside is generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Yonex Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Kensuke Tanaka
  • Patent number: 8105186
    Abstract: A reversible cutting apparatus includes a first cutting blade for connection with an arrow shaft such that the first cutting blade extends outwardly from the arrow shaft. The first cutting blade includes an upper, outer surface and a lower, inner surface. A first cutting edge is provided on the upper, outer surface of the first cutting blade and a second cutting edge is provided on the lower, inner surface of the first cutting blade. In another embodiment, in an arrow with a shaft, a reversible cutting apparatus includes a first cutting blade with a connection receiver space for connection with an arrow shaft such that the first cutting blade extends outwardly from the arrow shaft and where the first cutting blade includes a first cutting edge and a second cutting edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Matthew Futtere
  • Patent number: 8105187
    Abstract: An arrow broadhead adapted for attaching to an open end of a hollow arrow shaft. The broadhead is adapted for moving from a retracted position during arrow flight to an extended and fully-locked position when contacting a target. The broadhead includes a pointed tip with tip base and a sliding shaft. A sliding shaft housing with a bore hole is used for receiving the sliding shaft therein. A lower end of the sliding shaft housing is adapted for receipt inside the open end of the hollow arrow shaft. At least two cutting blades are pivotally attached at one end to the tip base. Pivot arms are pivotally attached to an inside edge of the cutting blades and to the sliding shaft housing. The pivot arms hold the cutting blades in a retracted position during arrow flight and expand the cutting blades outwardly upon target contact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Chris G. Sanford
  • Patent number: 8105188
    Abstract: An archery arrowhead having a body with a substantially triangular base and truncated triangular sides to form a substantially truncated triangular pyramid. A cutting blade is formed at the juncture of adjacent truncated triangular sides. Each of the cutting blades have a leading end and a trailing end. The leading ends of the cutting blades terminate in needle points. The width of the blades at their trailing ends is greater than the width of the blades at their leading ends. The leading end of the body located opposite the base has a concave recess formed therein. A concave flute is formed in each of the sides of the arrowhead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Stanley D. Mercer
  • Patent number: 8105189
    Abstract: In arrows with an arrow shaft, an arrow vane apparatus includes an arrow vane for connection with an arrow shaft where the arrow vane includes an inside surface for connection with the arrow shaft. A first outer surface and a second outer surface are provided such that the first outer surface and the second outer surface are connected with the inside surface. Further, the first outer surface and the second outer surface are also connected along an outside edge and the arrow vane includes an air channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Dorge O. Huang
  • Patent number: 8105190
    Abstract: A pulley assembly for a continuously variable transmission in a vehicle, comprising a shaft having an axis, a supporting element rotatable about said axis, a first half pulley rigidly and rotationally connected to said supporting element, a second half pulley facing said first half pulley for defining a seat adapted to accommodate a belt of the transmission, at least one of the first and second half pulleys being longitudinally mobile with respect to the supporting element, and a clutch comprising a second supporting element connected to the shaft, a drum connected to the supporting element and accommodating the second supporting element, and a plurality of friction elements hinged to the second supporting element about respective hinge axes to selectively cooperate with the drum. In particular, the respective centres of gravity of said friction elements are located before the respective hinge axes with respect to a direction of rotation of the shaft which defines a forward running condition of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Dayco Europe S.r.l.
    Inventors: Alessio Galletti, Paolo Seta
  • Patent number: 8105191
    Abstract: The line hydraulic pressure setting portion sets the line hydraulic pressure PL, which is the base pressure for the required shift control pressure Pin and the required belt clamping pressure Pd, based on the higher of the required pressures Pin and Pd. At this time, if the continuously variable transmission is to be shifted up, the required Pin calculating portion calculates the required shift control pressure Pin based on one of the target speed ratio ?* and the actual speed ratio ? with which the required shift pressure Pv is calculated to be higher than with the other. As such, the required shift control pressure Pin is set to the minimum necessary level for shifting up the continuously variable transmission and the line hydraulic pressure PL is appropriately set to a level for obtaining the required shift control pressure Pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shinya Toyoda, Hiroji Taniguchi, Yoshinobu Soga
  • Patent number: 8105192
    Abstract: A motor vehicle transmission having a continuously variable transmission ratio. The transmission includes an input-side torque converter that is optionally connectable on the output side through a first transmission stage with a predetermined gear ratio, or through a second, continuously variable transmission stage, to the output shaft of the transmission so that it transmits torque. The transmission ratio of the continuously variable transmission stage is adjustable in such a way that the rotational speed of the transmission output shaft remains constant when the transmission of torque is shifted from the first transmission stage to the second transmission stage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies AG & Co. KG
    Inventor: Emmanuel Simon
  • Patent number: 8105193
    Abstract: A bicycle rear derailleur is basically provided with a base member, a movable member and a moving mechanism. The movable member pivotally supports a chain guide. The moving mechanism is coupled between the base member and the movable member so that the movable member is movable relative to the base member. The chain guide includes a first guide plate, a second guide plate, a guide pulley rotatably disposed between the first and second guide plates and a tension pulley rotatably disposed between the first and second guide plates. The first and second guide plates are releasably coupled together by a tool-less connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventors: Shinya Oseto, Hajime Nagasawa, Satoru Kunisawa
  • Patent number: 8105194
    Abstract: A pivot joint for a single blade spring tensioner or double blade spring tensioner generates a biased friction loss at a pivot joint. The friction torque generated in one direction of joint rotation is greater than the friction torque generated in the opposite direction of rotation. In one embodiment, the direction of torque bias at the joints is used to make the damping of the blade spring greater in compression than in extension. High damping in compression and low damping in extension is a desirable characteristic for a tensioner in most applications. The device may be designed to act as a one-way clutch or as a two-way clutch. The device may also be designed to apply large friction torques only when the joint undergoes large amplitude motions (loss of control).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Smart
  • Patent number: 8105195
    Abstract: A tensioner for a power transmission system includes two tensioning arms operatively engaged with a strand of either the chain or the belt of the power transmission system. The upper end of each tensioning arm is connected to a one way rotational clutch which is pivotally mounted between the upper ends of the tensioning arms. The one way clutch rotates in one direction in response to changing chain loads to adjust the tension substantially equally on both strands at the same time. In order to prevent over-tensioning, a damping means is included in the one-way clutch. When a pre-determined overload threshold is reached, the amount of torque required to overcome the coefficient of friction of a spring in the damper allows the one way clutch to slip in the direction opposite from its normal rotational direction, thereby relieving the overload condition on the chain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: BorgWarner Inc.
    Inventor: Mark M. Wigsten
  • Patent number: 8105196
    Abstract: A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque-transmitting devices. Further, a hydraulic fluid control circuit is provided for controlling the operation of the plurality of torque-transmitting devices. The hydraulic fluid control circuit receives pressurized hydraulic fluid from an off-axis hydraulic fluid pump and has a plurality of fluid passages disposed in the transmission house, input member and other coupling members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Patrick S. Portell, John A. Diemer, James M. Hart, Scott H. Wittkopp, Edwin T. Grochowski, Douglas John Dwenger, Elizabeth I. Wooden, Boris Burgman, Clinton E. Carey, Tejinder Singh
  • Patent number: 8105197
    Abstract: A device for use with a vehicle transmission system includes a housing having a clutch provided therein and a first member extending from the housing and configured for coupling to a vehicle differential. The first member includes a generally hollow tube configured to carry a rotatable shaft therein. The device does not include a second member for directly coupling the device to a transmission housing or to the differential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: GKN Driveline Newton, LLC
    Inventors: Bahman Haghshanas, Hans-Peter Nett
  • Patent number: 8105198
    Abstract: A transmission of the present invention has an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes. The torque transmitting devices are selectively engageable in combinations of at least two to establish at least eight forward speed ratios and at least one reverse speed ratio.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: James M. Hart, Scott H. Wittkopp, Clinton E. Carey, Andrew W. Phillips
  • Patent number: 8105199
    Abstract: A power transmission mechanism transferring a power output from an engine to a propeller includes a transmission planetary gear train that transforms the output power of the engine before it is transferred to the propeller. The transmission planetary gear train includes a transmission sun gear, a transmission double planetary gear set, and a transmission internal gear, in which the transmission sun gear is connected via the first clutch to the input end shaft extending into the engine, and the transmission sun gear is also connected via the second one-way clutch to the housing. In addition, the transmission double planetary gear set is connected via the second clutch to the input end shaft extending into the engine, and the transmission double planetary gear set is also connected via the first one-way clutch to the housing. Further, the transmission internal gear is connected to the output end shaft extending toward the propeller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshihiko Okabe
  • Patent number: 8105200
    Abstract: An actuator for the electromotive actuation of a parking or stop brake, especially of a private car comprises, downstream on the electric motor, a planetary wheel transmission which is axially cascaded in a multi-stage manner and comprises a centering pin which is radially mounted on the two front ends thereof and extends coaxially to the output shaft, on the radial overdefined bearing arrangement thereof. Respectively one planet carrier comprising a pinion is embodied, along the centering pin, as a sun wheel for the planet wheels on the planet carrier of the following transmission step.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignees: Oechsler Artiengesellschaft, Lucas Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Dettenberger, Wilhelm Wolf
  • Patent number: 8105201
    Abstract: In a power driver, a shifter assembly includes: a housing; a ring gear mounted for rotation on the housing; a shift collar mounted for rotation on the housing; an elongated shifter structure coupled to the ring gear and the shift collar, the shifter structure including a misalignment compensator to compensate for misalignment between the ring gear and a feature cooperating with the ring gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Black & Decker Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel Puzio
  • Patent number: 8105202
    Abstract: To automatically shift the shift position of an automatic transmission depending on whether or not the rider is seated or the side stand is retracted. When the vehicle is at a stop with an engine running, and it is detected that the rider is not sitting on a rider seat, an automatic transmission is automatically shifted to the neutral range while maintaining the operation of the engine. Further, when the vehicle is at a stop with the engine running, and the automatic transmission has been in the drive range continuously for a predetermined period of time, provided that the rider is not sitting on the rider seat, the automatic transmission is automatically shifted to the neutral range. Further, when, in a state with a side stand retracted, the throttle opening is equal to or smaller than a predetermined opening, the automatic transmission is automatically shifted to the drive range.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroyuki Kojima, Yoshiaki Nedachi
  • Patent number: 8105203
    Abstract: A dual clutch transmission comprises a first clutch to be engaged for setting any one of forward-traveling odd-numbered speeds and a second clutch to be engaged for setting any one of forward-traveling even-numbered speeds. The dual clutch transmission establishes a desired forward-traveling speed by alternately engaging/disengaging the first and second clutches. A backward-traveling drive train is adapted to be driven by engaging one of the first and second clutches. When a reverse mode is established by a mode setting means, the one of the first and second clutches is engaged to drive the backward-traveling drive train by setting a speed change manipulator at a backward-traveling position, and the other of the first and second clutches is engaged to drive a fixed one forward-traveling speed drive train by setting the speed change manipulator at a forward-traveling position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Kanzaki Kokyakoki Mfg. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Norihiro Ishii, Kengo Sasahara, Kazunari Koga, Tomoyuki Ebihara
  • Patent number: 8105204
    Abstract: A method and a device for controlling a fluid-actuated control system of an automatic or automated transmission of a motor vehicle, which has at least one pressure medium source, at least two control elements that are actuated by pressurized fluid and a control device for controlling the fluid-actuated control system. A further control module is used to reduce; the number and power consumption of valves that are actuated simultaneously to control the control elements; and the mechanical loading of the control elements (1, 2). The control module reads signals concerning at least one current control action and, in accordance with predetermined patterns, calculation rules and/or models, generates signals that cause non-switched control elements to be manipulated by pressurized working fluid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Robert Ingenbleek, Markus Ulbricht, Mario Steinborn, Armin Brentel
  • Patent number: 8105205
    Abstract: A method for adjusting the friction coefficient of a friction clutch situated in a hybrid power train between an electric machine and a combustion engine, actuated by a clutch actuator, the friction coefficient is adjusted by a torque transmitted by the friction clutch, which is determined when starting the combustion engine by the electric machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Schaeffler Technologies GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Michael Reuschel
  • Patent number: 8105206
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame including a first portion and a second portion positioned in a plane generally perpendicular to the first portion. A carriage assembly moves along a linear path parallel to the first portion. A drive unit is joined to the frame for movement the carriage assembly in a first direction and a second direction. The drive unit includes a motor, a ball screw joined to the motor, and at least one support bearing rotatably joined to the ball screw and joined to the carriage assembly for enabling the carriage to move along the linear path in response to the ball screw rotating. A first sensor activates the motor in a first mode to move the carriage in the first direction. A second sensor activates the motor in a second mode to move the carriage in the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Crazy Train LLC
    Inventor: Randy R Rindfleisch
  • Patent number: 8105207
    Abstract: An apparatus and method is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise comprising a frame with a load positioned on the frame to provide a resistive force. A press is positioned on the frame for displacement by the operator. A linkage joins the load with the press for displacing the load upon displacement of the press by the operator. A display is provided for inputting and outputting data. A sensor is positioned on the frame for measuring a displacement and a speed of the linkage. A memory storage is provided for storing data. A processor communicates with the display and the sensor and the memory storage for processing data. The processor transfers data to the display for providing an exercising instruction to the operator. The processor receives data from the sensor for processing the performance of the exercising instruction by the operator. The processor transfers data to the memory storage for saving the performance of the exercising instruction by the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Michael G. Lannon, Mary O. Lannon, Carl R. Spoeth, Jr., Ian N. Whitehead, Harald Quintus-Bosz, Gerhard Pawelka, Jesse Ambrosina
  • Patent number: 8105208
    Abstract: Portable fitness monitoring systems with displays, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method of providing training feedback to an individual using a heart rate sensor and a display module supported by the individual during a physical activity, the method including the steps of: (a) determining a maximum heart rate value for the individual; (b) defining a heart rate zone as a range of heart rate values that correspond to a range of percentages of the maximum heart rate value; (c) associating a color with the heart rate zone; (d) wirelessly transmitting heart rate data from the heart rate sensor to the display module during the physical activity; and (e) visually displaying the color associated with the heart rate zone to the individual on the display module during the physical activity in response to the heart rate data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: adidas AG
    Inventors: Mark Arthur Oleson, Christian DiBenedetto, Scott Tomlinson
  • Patent number: 8105209
    Abstract: A process is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise on an exercise device. The process includes measuring a range of movement of the operator during exercising on the exercise device for generating an electronic range of movement data. A strength is measured of the operator during exercising on the exercise device for generating an electronic strength data. An electronic program is designed based on the electronic range of movement data and the electronic strength data. The electronic program is stored in an electronic media. The electronic program is displayed as a moving scale on a screen for instructing the operator to exercise at the same rate as the moving scale to complete the exercise in a timely and controlled matter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventors: Michael G. Lannon, Mary Obana, Carl R. Spoeth, Jr., Ian N. Whitehead, Jeffrey A. Pearson, Jonathan S. Hazelwood, Joshua J. Roman, David L. Peterman
  • Patent number: 8105210
    Abstract: A jaw relaxation exercise appliance and method of use to relieve the symptoms of the temporal mandibular joint (TMJ), such as limited opening and jaw pain, that is inexpensive and easy to use. The appliance may be form fit to each user and is designed to be a partial coverage appliance with a bottom guide plane for ease of movement to achieve optimal jaw position. It is also intended to be utilized in conjunction with an exercise. The appliance should be used for short intervals during the day. Patients are directed to slowly move or slide their lower jaw forward and then slowly slide the lower jaw rearward along the plane to a point of comfort.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Harvey G. Seybold
  • Patent number: 8105211
    Abstract: A soft edged trampoline includes a flexible mat supported from a base frame by a plurality of resiliently flexible rods. Each rod has an enlarged upper end. A plurality of fittings coupled to the mat about the periphery of the mat each include a socket cavity which receives the enlarged upper end of a flexible rod, so that the upper ends of the flexible rods are pivotally connected to the periphery of the mat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Board & Batten Inc.
    Inventor: Keith Vivian Alexander
  • Patent number: 8105212
    Abstract: An exercise ring with properties ideally suited for exercising by a user sitting at a desk or work station is disclosed. The exercise ring is nested within the outer rim of a computer mouse pad such that a user may easily remove the device and use it while seated at a desk or work station and serves the second function as a wrist rest when mounted on the mouse pad. The exercise ring is made of elastic material that exhibits high visco-elastic properties when being manually stretched and contracted. The unique visco-elastic properties cause the exercise ring to exert a larger force on the user's muscles when the ring is being stretched and a smaller force is exerted on the user's muscles while the ring is being contracted. This combination of exercise ring properties has been found to provide an optimum work out when exercising in a confined space and reduces the chance of the user being impacted by an accidentally released exercise ring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Manuel Eduardo Tellez
  • Patent number: 8105213
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a foot member configured to pivot about a horizontal pivot axis, the foot member supporting a footpad, a first surface coupled to the foot member to pivot with the foot member about the horizontal pivot axis, a second surface stationarily supported by the frame, and a bumper between the first surface and the second surface. The bumper resiliently compresses during pivoting of the first surface in the arc towards the second surface while in contact with the first surface and the second surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Precor Incorporated
    Inventors: Jonathan M. Stewart, Rodney P. West, David E. Dyer, James S. Birrell, Sean Horita
  • Patent number: 8105214
    Abstract: A small, light personal fitness device offers capability to perform both light and heavy exercises. The invention employs flywheels (61) to provide continual and variable resistance. The invention includes a method to adjust range of motion and a method to view the operating force of the system. Flywheel unit (3) and the hand unit (9) are attached via a cord (21). Handle (1) is held by hand or by foot. Knob (7) is used to wind the cord manually. Knob (13) is used to adjust the length of the cord. The invention also includes a resistance indicator (31) to show the resistance for each exercise, and to allow the user to monitor the exercising progress and increase in strength.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Henner Jahns
  • Patent number: 8105215
    Abstract: A pull cord assembly for body stretching exercise includes an elastic cord member and a strand-like protective member. The elastic cord member has an elastic cord body which extends along a lengthwise axis to terminate at two anchored ends. The strand-like protective member has a strand-like body which extends lengthwise to terminate at two coupled ends that are secured with the anchored ends, respectively. The strand-like body is twined around the elastic cord body along the lengthwise axis so as to enhance the safety of using the pull cord assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Wen-Ching Wang