Patents Issued in August 14, 2012
  • Patent number: RE43587
    Abstract: A handheld computing device is introduced comprising a motion detection sensor(s) and a motion control agent. The motion detection sensor(s) detect motion of the computing device in one or more of six (6) fields of motion and generate an indication of such motion. The motion control agent, responsive to the indications of motion received from the motion sensors, generate control signals to modify one or more of the operating state and/or the displayed content of the computing device based, at least in part, on the received indications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Durham Logistics LLC
    Inventors: John T. Orchard, Christopher R. Uhlik
  • Patent number: 8239969
    Abstract: A glove for receiving a hand has a dorsal side corresponding with a back area of the hand and an opposite palmar side corresponding with a palm area of the hand. An exterior surface of the palmar side may include a polymer foam material with a silicone coating. Although the chemical composition of the silicone coating may vary significantly, the silicone coating may be a cured silicone film layer with a Shore A durometer of less than or equal to 60.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventor: Sam Fisher
  • Patent number: 8239970
    Abstract: In a helmet according to this invention, a recess-projection fitting mechanism to attach a blockish inside pad on a head protecting cap portion side includes a male hook or female hook on the blockish inside pad side, and a female hook or male hook on the head protecting cap portion. When pulling the inside pad outward from inside the head protecting cap portion at least partly, a recess-projection fitting disengaging slant surface causes one hook to relatively levitate from the other hook, thus relatively disengaging the male hook from the female hook. This invention can provide the helmet which, when worn by a head of a helmet wearer, can be removed with a comparatively small force, and the detaching operation of which can be performed easily and reliably with a comparatively simple arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Shoei Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshiyuki Ikeda
  • Patent number: 8239971
    Abstract: A carriage for a headgear mount including a base having a top surface and a bottom surface, the carriage attachable to the headgear mount. At least one rail extends from the bottom surface, the rail adapted to receive night vision goggles and the rail being integral with the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Norotos, Inc.
    Inventor: Jonathon R. Prendergast
  • Patent number: 8239972
    Abstract: A disposal system is provided. In an embodiment, by way of example, the disposal system can include a first tank adapted to be at least partially filled with waste fluid. The disposal system can also include a waste processing device adapted to receive waste fluid and adjust one or more properties of the waste fluid. Additionally, the waste disposal system can include a jet engine comprising a first chamber adapted to contain a fluid undergoing compression. The jet engine can be in fluid communication with the waste processing device to receive the waste fluid from the waste processing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Dwyer, Richard F. Wessels, David R. Hollingsworth
  • Patent number: 8239973
    Abstract: The toilet ventilation apparatus effectively vents unwanted gasses from a toilet room without risk of return. The apparatus provides for installation to an existing toilet bowl with retention of the existing lid. The seat with bottom orifices is provided in a plurality of thicknesses, shapes, and sizes to correctly fit existing toilets. The discharge hose connects to the collar fitting of the drain collar, which is easily connected to a drain such as a sink drain so that in-floor and wall plumbing invasion is not required. The quick connect fitting is disposed between the escape tube exiting the rear of the seat and the suction hose. The quick connect provides that the vacuum pump and related hose are quickly selectively connected and disconnected to any seat of the apparatus installed on an existing toilet bowl, thereby allowing addition and removal of the pump and hoses at a few seconds notice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Davis Character
  • Patent number: 8239974
    Abstract: Elongated drain assemblies suitable for use in tiled shower stalls are described. Because the elongated drain is typically located at one edge of the shower stall proximate a stall wall and extends substantially the entire length of the wall, the installation of the associated shower pan is made much simpler. Specifically, the pan need only be sloped substantially in a single direction instead of four towards a prior art circular drain located at the center of a stall. The time and cost of creating a pan having a single slope is reduced over a more complex multi-sloped pan. Several different means for adjusting the height of the drain assemblies' top surfaces relative to the height of the tile floor are provided to adjust for tile floors of differing thicknesses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Josef Erlebach
  • Patent number: 8239975
    Abstract: A distance warning device for a male urinal comprises a casing, a detector provided at the front end of the casing, and a comparison circuit, a control circuit, and a warning indicator that are electrically connected with the detector. The detector detects the location of a human body. The comparison circuit then outputs a corresponding signal by means of comparison of the detection results. When receiving a signal indicating that the distance from the human body to the male urinal is between the first distance and the second distance, the control circuit has the warning indicator output a warning signal and has a flusher begin a first-phase flush to pre-wet the male urinal. When receiving a signal indicating that the human body is within the first distance, the control circuit stops the warning indicator. When the distance between the human body and the male urinal is equal to or longer than the second distance, the flusher begins the second-phase flush to wash the male urinal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Shuen-Ching Lee
  • Patent number: 8239976
    Abstract: In one embodiment of the present system invention, there is provided a dividing module positioned in the holding tank of a toilet to separate the holding tank into a main portion and a reserve portion. The dividing module has a height lower than the full water level in the holding tank. The dividing module includes the ability to selectively connect the main portion and the reserve portion in fluid communication of each other. The embodiment allows an operator to press the handle arm an initial time to maintain the main portion and the reserve portion in substantially fluid separation of each other, such that water in the main portion is utilized to flush the toilet and wherein when the operator presses the handle a second time in the same manner as the initial time, the dividing module connects the main portion and the reserve portion in substantially fluid communication with each other, such that water in the reserve portion and the main portion is utilized to flush the toilet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Z-Choice International, LLC
    Inventors: Weizhi Chen, Suzy Zeng
  • Patent number: 8239977
    Abstract: An automatic retractable and advanceable hot tub cover system comprising: a rear cross member, with a first end and a second end; a first boot assembly, in rotatable and slidable communication with the first end of the rear cross member; a second boot assembly, in rotatable and slidable communication with the second end of the rear cross member; a first rear main lift arm fixedly attached to near the first end of the rear cross member, the first rear main lift arm having a first angled end; a second rear main lift arm fixedly attached to near the second end of the rear cross member, the second rear main lift arm having a second angled end; a shackle connector with a first shackle connector end, and a second shackle connector end, the first shackle connector end rotatably attached to the first angled end; a front cover lift arm, with a front cover lift arm angled end, the front cover lift arm angled end rotatably attached to the first shackle connector end; a front cover actuator, with a front cover actuator r
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Mystique Products LLC
    Inventor: Glenn Sloss
  • Patent number: 8239978
    Abstract: Photodynamic therapy of conditions of the eye, especially those conditions characterized by unwanted neovasculature, such as age-related macular degeneration, results in enhanced visual acuity for treated subjects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Novartis Opthalmics AG
    Inventors: H. Andrew Strong, Julia G. Levy, Gustav Huber, Mario Fsadni
  • Patent number: 8239979
    Abstract: A modular easy access bathing enclosure includes a shell having a seating area and a standing area with a contiguous sidewall. The sidewall around the standing area includes an access opening extending from a shell top to an opening bottom proximate the standing area. A pocket door is provided for enclosing the access opening and is movable into the sidewall surrounding the standing area. Inflatable gaskets are provided for sealing and locking the door in the access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Axcess Innovations Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Wm. Seymour, Deon Colchester, Robert Rotstan, Jr., Carl Tenbrink
  • Patent number: 8239980
    Abstract: A light-emitting spa bubble massager includes an air provider, an air-driven light source connected to the air provider by a connection tube and having mounted therein an electrical generator that is driven to generate electricity when the air provider provides a flow of air through the connection tube into the air-driven light source and a light-emitting module electrically connected to the electrical generator and operable to emit light, and a bubble bath mat for putting in water in a water container for output of the flow of air passing through the air-driven light source to produce bubbles in the water in the water container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Tsai Ying
  • Patent number: 8239981
    Abstract: The invention relates to a glass or glass-ceramic washbasin. The inventive washbasin is characterized in that it essentially comprises at least one part (1) which forms a water receptacle and which is made from glass or glass-ceramic and at least one part (2) which prevents the water from flowing from the first part (1). In addition, the assembly is provided with a water drain hole (3). The aforementioned first part (1) is equipped with a groove (2?) for receiving the lower edge of the second part (2) and said two parts (1 and 2) are assembled by means of a glue that is injected into the base of the groove (2?) prior to assembly. The invention is particularly suitable for household equipment, such as washbasins that are made from glass or glass-ceramic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Schott VTF
    Inventors: Bertrand Epp, Serge DeZorzi
  • Patent number: 8239982
    Abstract: A twin tank flush device of multi-outlets, which comprises a first upper tank adapted for collection of wash water, and a second lower tank which is positioned to receive and store used wash water from the first tank, the first tank being arranged to receive water and having at least one outlet to discharge water into said second lower tank. The lower tank is arranged to selectively discharge the stored water either to a toilet to flush the toilet, or to a public drainage system, either manually or by timed discharged, to avoid overflow in the lower tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Hassan Mohammed S. Fryan
  • Patent number: 8239983
    Abstract: Embodiments of a patient transport cot comprise a height adjustment component coupled to the patient transport cot and configured to raise or lower the cot to a plurality of heights. The patient transport cot further comprises an electronic height indicator coupled to the patient transport cot and comprising at least one height sensor, wherein each height sensor represents a target cot height. The electronic height indicator further comprises at least one visual display component coupled to the sensor, wherein the height sensor is triggered when the cot is adjusted to the target cot height setting represented by the height sensor. The triggering of the height sensor actuates the visual display component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Ferno-Washington, Inc.
    Inventor: Bob Chinn
  • Patent number: 8239984
    Abstract: A variable motion infant seat includes: a vertical reciprocating assembly comprising a first motor for providing vertical motion; a horizontal reciprocating assembly coupled to the vertical reciprocating assembly and comprising a second motor for providing horizontal motion; and a support device coupled to at least one of the vertical reciprocating assembly and the horizontal reciprocating assembly. The first motor and second motor are run at a substantially constant speed, thereby causing the vertical reciprocating assembly and horizontal reciprocating assembly to move the support device in at least one motion profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Frederick Karl Hopke, Henry F. Thorne, Mary J. Koes, Robert D. Daley
  • Patent number: 8239985
    Abstract: A towel with one or more recessed pockets is disclosed. A first peripheral edge spans from a first corner of the towel to a second corner of the towel. A second peripheral edge spans from a third corner of the towel to a fourth corner of the towel. The second peripheral edge is positioned generally opposite the first peripheral edge of the towel. A first recessed pocket includes a first set of openings is disposed on and coextensive with the first peripheral edge. A second recessed pocket includes a second set of openings disposed on and coextensive with the second peripheral edge. A first liner covers an interior surface of the first recessed pocket. A second liner covers an interior surface of the second recessed pocket. The first and second liner each comprise rounded interior corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventors: Joshua P. Christensen, Michael G. Ware
  • Patent number: 8239986
    Abstract: A siderail assembly includes a frame, a link mechanism coupled to the frame and movable between first and second positions, and a panel coupled to the linkage and movable therewith between a first position and a second position. The link mechanism is configured to provide compound motion such that the siderail panel follows specific path. The siderail may include electronic controls to limit the movement of the linkage based on the position of the siderail assembly and various portions of a patient-support apparatus on which the siderail may be positioned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard H. Heimbrock, David W. Hornbach, Brian T. Wiggins, Darrell L. Metz
  • Patent number: 8239987
    Abstract: An improved neck cushion device with associated eye mask and headrest cushion for improved comfort while sleeping in an upright position. The device comprises a standard neck pillow having a general C-shape and internal cushioning, attached to an upstanding headrest and deployable eye mask. The headrest secures to the neck pillow via a closed loop, wherein the neck pillow is inserted therethrough. The neck pillow is secured around the neck of a user, while the headrest is positioned between the back of a user's head and a seat to provide upright support. The eye mask is deployable from a pouch along the back of the headrest, and is attached via a band of fabric to prevent its misplacement. The user is provided comfort by properly supporting their head along the neck and behind the head, while the eye mask provides a blind for darkened sleeping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Eric Sharp
  • Patent number: 8239988
    Abstract: The present disclosure describes devices, methods, and systems for leg elevation. The leg elevating device includes a leg support platform, a base platform positioned adjacent the leg support platform, and a first and second lift positioned between and coupled to the leg support platform and the base platform. The leg support platform can have a first horizontal position relative the base platform when the first and second lift are in a first position, an angled position relative the base platform when the first lift is in a second position and the second lift is in the first position, and a second horizontal position relative the base platform when the first and second lift are in a second position. Also, the leg support platform can be a predetermined height above a floor surface when in the first horizontal position, such that the leg elevating device is locatable under furniture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Timothy Brenner
  • Patent number: 8239989
    Abstract: A method for removing odor of laundry in a washing machine comprises inputting laundry into an inner tub, supplying steam to the laundry, and rotating the inner tub. Odor of the laundry is rapidly and easily removed without performing a cleaning process using water, and the fabrication cost is reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Myong-Hun Im, Soo-Young Oh, Jae-Won Chang, Kyung-Chul Woo, Kyeong-Hwan Kim
  • Patent number: 8239990
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus and method for machine washing that includes a sterilizer capable of continuously exhibiting antibiotic and sterilization functions during washing and rinsing processes and reducing the consumption amount of Ag. The washing machine comprises a water reservoir to contain washing water, a sterilizer sterilizing the washing water through an electrolysis process, and a circulator circulating the washing water in the sterilizer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jung Soo Lim, Phil Soo Chang, Hye Soon Yang, Young Hoon Kang, Byoung Yull Yang, Tal Eun Kim, Hee Won Jin, Hye Ryung Kim
  • Patent number: 8239991
    Abstract: An electric-electronic toothbrush carries a brush driven to vibrate, and arranged to flow an electric current into a user's oral cavity for promoting removal of tooth plaque. The electric-electronic toothbrush has a shaft driven to vibrate along and/or about an axis of the shaft, and a battery supplying the electric current. The shaft is electrically conductive to flow the electric current into a brush electrode of a brush head. The shaft is electrically connected to the battery by way of an extendible electrically conductive coupler within the handle. The electrically conductive coupler has its one end secured to the shaft, and the other end to an electrically conductive member connected to one of poles of the battery, so as to absorb the vibration of the shaft. The handle is provided on its outer peripheral surface with a touch electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroaki Shimizu, Tomohiro Kunita, Shinichi Taniguchi, Suehisa Kishimoto, Tadanobu Kitagawa
  • Patent number: 8239992
    Abstract: An autonomous coverage robot includes a chassis having forward and rearward portions and a drive system carried by the chassis. The forward portion of the chassis defines a substantially rectangular shape. The robot includes a cleaning assembly mounted on the forward portion of the chassis and a bin disposed adjacent the cleaning assembly and configured to receive debris agitated by the cleaning assembly. A bin cover is pivotally attached to a lower portion of the chassis and configured to rotate between a first, closed position providing closure of an opening defined by the bin and a second, open position providing access to the bin opening. The robot includes a body attached to the chassis and a handle disposed on an upper portion of the body. A bin cover release is actuatable from substantially near the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: iRobot Corporation
    Inventors: Mark Schnittman, Zivthan A. Dubrovsky, Jeffrey W. Mammen, Aaron Solochek
  • Patent number: 8239993
    Abstract: A vehicle washing apparatus includes a covering that is positionable on a vehicle. A cleaning assembly is rotatably mounted to the housing and extends downwardly from a bottom wall of the cleaning assembly. A drive assembly is mounted in the housing and is mechanically coupled to the cleaning assembly. The drive assembly rotates the cleaning assembly when the drive assembly is turned on. A track is attached to a bottom side of the covering and is coupled to the housing so that the housing is movable along the track. A drive member is mounted in the housing and engages the track. The drive member is mechanically coupled to the drive assembly. The drive assembly rotates the drive member to move the housing along the track when the drive member is turned on. The housing travels along the track while the cleaning assembly cleans the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Edwin L. Chiong
  • Patent number: 8239994
    Abstract: A scraping element for a pipeline pig, includes a moulded body having a circular peripheral scraping edge circumscribing the body and adapted to engage an interior surface of a pipeline. The body is adapted to be mounted to a pipeline pig. A wear resistance material embedded in the scraping edge of the body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Opus Services, Inc.
    Inventor: John Dyck
  • Patent number: 8239995
    Abstract: An oral hygiene device includes a head, a first bristle field, and a second bristle field. The head includes a first head portion and a second head portion. The first bristle field extends from the first head portion. The second bristle field extends from the second head portion. The first bristle field and second bristle field are controllably movable between a first configuration for providing a first cleaning operation and a second configuration for providing a second cleaning operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: The Gillette Company
    Inventors: Alexander Timothy Chenvainu, Marc Phillip Ortins, Karen Lynn Claire-Zimmet
  • Patent number: 8239996
    Abstract: A brush head and a toothbrush having a brush head with inclined and tapered bristles. In one aspect, the toothbrush includes a grip part, a head part, and a bristle area with tufts of bristles that are inserted therein. At least one of said tufts of bristles is inclined. The brush head is characterized in that the bristles in the at least one inclined tufts of bristles is tapered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: GABA International AG
    Inventors: Christine Garbers, André Brunella, Peter Gross
  • Patent number: 8239997
    Abstract: A mop strainer has a bucket, a driving unit, a transmission unit and a draining unit. The driving unit and the transmission unit are received in a pedal mount of the mop strainer. The driving unit and the transmission unit are driven by stepping on the driving unit, so as to rotate the draining unit and drain a mop. The driving unit has a reinforced sector wall and a limit slot to limit the stroke in operation. The draining unit has a water guard to prevent drained water from sputtering out and the water guard further has a mop gripper for holding the mop. Given all these features, the present invention is more robust and can be operated and stored more conveniently and practically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Ching-Chun Lin
  • Patent number: 8239998
    Abstract: A modular canopy having standardized side panels, trusses and tracks. The modular canopy includes parallel opposing sidewalls formed from multiple standardized side panels. Each sidewall extends from a front mounting structure to a rear mounting structure and carries a track that typically extends the almost entire length of the sidewall for supporting the carriage of the sootblower within the canopy. Trusses connect adjacent side panels together and extend from one sidewall to the other over the top of the sidewalls. The modular canopy may also include standardized removable or permanently attached covers. The canopy is typically assembled with permanent fasteners, such as lockbolts, that cannot be removed without destroying the fasteners. A sootblower canopy of any desired length can therefore be manufactured or repaired from a common set of component parts with one of the sections, typically an end section, cut to the desired length as needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Clyde Berhemann, Inc.
    Inventors: Hans Schwade, Steve Weinkle, Tony Watkins
  • Patent number: 8239999
    Abstract: A mop assembly includes a handle having a control member connected to a lower end thereof and the control member is located within a connection unit which is connected to the handle. A locking unit is connected to outside of the connection unit and is hooked to a main body. The main body includes a case in which a tank, a steam generation device and a pivotal member are located therein. An operation bar is pivotably connected to the case. The pivotal member is able to activate the steam generation device by pushing the handle downward. The main body can be disengaged from the locking unit and used individually. The steam generation device can be activated by operation of an operation bar on the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Pet-Cheng Hsu
  • Patent number: 8240000
    Abstract: A bypass type cleaning apparatus includes a suction nozzle; an air suction unit being in fluid communication with the suction nozzle via an entering passage; and at least two contaminant collecting receptacles being in fluid communication with at least two exits formed at the air suction unit, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jang-keun Oh, Min-ha Kim
  • Patent number: 8240001
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner includes a dust collector that compresses dust stored inside a dust container to minimize the volume of the dust. The dust collector would include one or more pressing plates that are used to compress the dust stored in dust collector. Various methods are used to control movements of the movable pressing plates to facilitate the compression operations. Also, various methods are used to determine when the dust collector is full and needs to be emptied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Man Tae Hwang, Hae Seock Yang, Hoi Kil Jeong, Myung Sig Yoo, Jae Kyum Kim, Moo Hyun Ko, Kie Tak Hyun, Jong Su Choo, Young Bok Son, Kyeong Seon Jeong, Min Park, Sung Hwa Lee, Il Joong Kim, Jin Hyouk Shin, Gun Ho Ha, Jin Wook Seo, Chang Ho Yun, Jin Young Kim, Chang Hoon Lee, Yun Hee Park
  • Patent number: 8240002
    Abstract: Disclosed is a base assembly for a vacuum cleaner, which directly injects exhaust wind to the turbine wing one end of which is rotatably supported on the exhaust port of an intake motor in order to rotate the rotating brush to avoid the loss in the exhaust wind and to therefore obtain a high level of suction force with a small-size motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: HAAN Corporation
    Inventor: Gyung-Hee Haan
  • Patent number: 8240003
    Abstract: A handle assembly for a cleaning appliance such as a vacuum cleaner includes a flexible hose having a first end that is connectable to a main body of the cleaning appliance and a second end, a handle portion for maneuvering the handle assembly during use and a tubular wand. The second end of the flexible hose is connected to the handle portion, and the tubular wand is slidably mounted in the handle portion so as to be movable between a first position in which the tubular wand extends beyond the handle portion inside the flexible hose and a second position in which the tubular wand extends beyond the handle portion away from the flexible hose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Dyson Technology Limited
    Inventors: Peter David Gammack, Andrew McCulloch, Benjamin John Strutt, Sarah Helen Liddell, William Robert James White
  • Patent number: 8240004
    Abstract: A replacement furniture glide includes a shell assembly and a foot assembly. The shell assembly includes an upper portion forming a chamber adapted to receive a conventional furniture glide affixed to a furniture leg. A lower portion extends downward from the upper portion. The shell assembly is divided vertically into multiple sections. The foot assembly includes an upper mounting member and a lower floor engagement member that is connected to the mounting member. The shell assembly lower portion is received within an upwardly extending cavity in the foot assembly mounting member to releaseably lock the shell assembly sections together. The shell assembly sections are separated by withdrawing the shell assembly lower portion from the foot assembly mounting member cavity to unlock the shell assembly sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Carpin Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph Carpinella, Robert Dombroski, David Ferraro
  • Patent number: 8240005
    Abstract: The invention relates to a regulating valve, which is attachable in particular in a bore, executed with a female thread, of a hydraulic door closer. The regulating valve has a body adjoined by a regulating area. The regulating valve also has a thread provided with an anti-rotation element. The thread, including the anti-rotation element, being screwed into the female thread of the bore. In order to provide a regulating valve of a simple design, in which any unwanted adjustment of the regulating valve during operation is excluded, the anti-rotation element of the regulating valve has a plastic material layer at the thread flanks of the thread. The plastic material layer cooperates with the female thread of the door closer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Dorma GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Michael Hufen
  • Patent number: 8240006
    Abstract: A trunk hinge apparatus having a pop-up function includes a hinge bracket mounted to an inner panel, a trunk hinge arm hinged to the hinge bracket, an elastic spring secured to the hinge bracket, a pop-up lever hinged at a first end thereof to the hinge bracket, and elastically biased at a second end thereof by the elastic spring, and a pressure unit mounted to the trunk hinge arm to come into close contact with the pop-up lever. When the spring moves the pop-up lever, the additional arm slides along the pop-up lever, moving the trunk hinge arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Dae Hee Lee
  • Patent number: 8240007
    Abstract: A hinge assembly includes a shaft, a cam, a follower, and an resilient member. The cam, the follower, and the resilient member are mounted with the shaft in turn. One end of the cam has a first outer cam portion and a first inner cam portion. One end of the follower has a second outer cam portion and a second inner cam portion respectively engaging with the first outer and inner cam portions. The resilient member is contained in such a manner that the cam portions of the follower resist the cam portions of the cam due to the decompression of the resilient member, and when the follower is manually rotated relative to the cam about a small original angle, the follower is automatically rotated relative to the cam due to the decompression of the resilient member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignees: Shenzhen Futaihong Precision Industry Co., Ltd., FIH (Hong Kong) Limited
    Inventors: Chao Duan, Chia-Hua Chen
  • Patent number: 8240008
    Abstract: A hands-free system for connecting and disconnecting a tool from an adjustable length extension pole. The system includes first and second slidably interconnected elongated members, a tool-holding assembly releasably coupled to the second elongated member, and a locking assembly disposed between the first and second elongated members. The relative sliding of the first and second elongated members can be selectively restrained by rotating the first and second elongated members relative to one another. The tool-holding assembly can be disconnected from the second elongated member by sliding the first and second elongated members together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventors: Robert D. Newman, Jr., Judson C. Cole, Eldon Morain
  • Patent number: 8240009
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the present invention relates to a non-woven fiber assembly comprising one or more fibers wherein each fiber contains: a hydrophilic component; and an elastomeric component, and wherein the non-woven fiber assembly further comprises an adhesive component. In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to a non-woven fiber assembly comprising one or more fibers wherein each fiber contains: a hydrophilic component; an elastomeric component; and an adhesive component, wherein the hydrophilic component, the elastomeric component and the adhesive component are all contained within each fiber. Also disclosed is a method of making the afore-mentioned non-woven fiber assemblies. Additionally, a medical dressing made from the non-woven fiber assemblies of the present invention is disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: The University Of Akron
    Inventors: Daniel J. Smith, Darrell H. Reneker
  • Patent number: 8240010
    Abstract: An improved money clip for holding and securing a stack of money, credit cards, and business documents. The money clip includes a gripping member 12 having a U shape which includes gripping sections 14, 16, and 18, and a first set of pivot sections formed on the lower edge of gripping section 14, and a second set of pivot sections formed on the lower edge of gripping section 18. The first and second gripping legs 20 and 22 each having pivots members at their upper ends which are pivotally and removably connected to the first and second set of pivot sections formed on the gripping sections 14 and 18. A third gripping leg 24 is provided having pivot members at its upper ends which is interchangeable with the first or second gripping legs 20 or 22. In addition, logo support members are formed on the first, second, or third gripping legs for receiving logos or pictures thereon which have magnetic surfaces for receiving logos thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Charles J. O'Donnell
  • Patent number: 8240011
    Abstract: A device for fastening interchangeable watchstraps with sliding lock mechanism, in particular for a watchcase, including a middle (1) and two pairs of horns (2), each horn being provided on its inner face with a skid (8) with one bevelled edge and a gap (10). Each watchstrap strand (3) includes a first link (4) on the lateral faces of which are found two grooves (5) adapted to the shape of the skids (8). Each groove contains a pin (6) connected to a head (7) and to a spring. The fastening takes place when the skids (8) engage in the grooves (5) of the first link (4) until locking of the pins (6) in the gaps (10). The watchstrap can be released by acting on the two heads (7) which retract the pins (6) from the gaps (10), making it possible to withdraw the watchstrap strand (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: GĂ©rard Chevrolet
  • Patent number: 8240012
    Abstract: A buckle assembly for a vehicle includes a seat belt tongue, a seat belt buckle with a blocking mechanism and a manual release button, and a remote buckle release mechanism. The blocking mechanism is configured to latch the tongue in the buckle. The remote buckle release mechanism includes a buckle release cable and a motor module configured to pull the cable to release the blocking mechanism to thereby release the seat belt tongue from the buckle. The buckle assembly is also configured to be actuated by an occupant via the manual release button on the buckle. The remote buckle release mechanism does not interfere with the operation of the manual release button. The remote buckle release mechanism may also be configured to automatically release the buckle a predetermined time after an airbag deployment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: TK Holdings Inc.
    Inventors: Frank Glenn Walega, Thomas Grzybowski, Brandon Scott Marriott, Nicklaus John Pelliccia
  • Patent number: 8240013
    Abstract: A casket and burial system for human remains includes a casket fabricated from plastics and polymer composites, such as glass-fiber reinforced plastic. The casket includes a base member, a cover member fitting atop the base, and top and bottom closure panels having one or more ports for use in replacing the ambient atmosphere within the sealed casket with a selected gas or fluid such as nitrogen, or to inject a plastic foam into the free space remaining in the casket. The casket is preferably interred in a vertical attitude as that arrangement allows up to four caskets to fit within a standard grave plot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Inventor: Gerald F. Williamson
  • Patent number: 8240014
    Abstract: A method of fabricating a piezo actuator is disclosed. The method includes forcing a blank against a mold to form a cylindrical casing having an open end and a closed end and rotating the cylindrical casing. The method also includes urging a die having a plurality of equally spaced protrusions into a surface of the cylindrical casing to form bellows in the cylindrical casing. The method further includes positioning a piezo element within the cylindrical casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis H. Gibson, Jinhui Sun
  • Patent number: 8240015
    Abstract: A method of producing a piezoelectric thin film resonator is provided. A sacrificial layer is formed on a part of the piezoelectric film. The sacrificial layer is patterned, and thereafter an upper electrode is formed on the piezoelectric layer. The method further includes removing the sacrificial layer formed on the piezoelectric layer; and patterning the piezoelectric film. In the step of removing the sacrificial layer, the sacrificial layer is removed such that at least a portion of the periphery of the upper electrode has a reversely tapered shape that reflects the tapered portion of the sacrificial layer, and in the step of patterning the piezoelectric film, the piezoelectric film is removed such that a lower end of the reversely tapered periphery of the upper electrode is placed so as to coincide with or to be in the vicinity of an end portion of the patterned piezoelectric film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Taiyo Yuden Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Sakashita, Motoaki Hara, Masafumi Iwaki, Tsuyoshi Yokoyama, Shinji Taniguchi, Tokihiro Nishihara, Masanori Ueda
  • Patent number: 8240016
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a multilayer electronic component includes a step of preparing a laminate which includes a plurality of stacked insulator layers and a plurality of internal electrodes extending along the interfaces between the insulator layers, and in which an end of each of the plurality of internal electrodes is exposed at a predetermined surface corresponding to one of the first and second end surfaces; a step of forming external electrodes on the predetermined surfaces; and a step of forming thick-film edge electrodes at edge portions. The step of forming external electrodes includes a step of attaching a plurality of conductive particles having a particle size of about 1 ?m or more to the predetermined surfaces of the laminate, and a step of performing plating directly on the predetermined surfaces to which the conductive particles are attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akihiro Motoki, Makoto Ogawa, Kenichi Kawasaki, Shunsuke Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 8240017
    Abstract: An apparatus for releasably attaching a pushing tool to one work piece such that a pushing force can be applied to a second work piece and allow alignment of the two work pieces for joining the work pieces together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: ROMAR/MEC, LLC
    Inventors: Gerald L. Dasbach, Will Harris