Patents Issued in February 19, 2013
  • Patent number: RE44015
    Abstract: The invention facilitates optical signals generated from customer premise equipment (CPE) at the edges of the metro domain networks. The CPEs are connected to extension terminals that transform the optical signal originating at the CPE into a suitable format for long haul transmission. The optical signal then propagates to a primary terminal where the signal is multiplexed with other optical signals from other extension terminals. The multiplexed signals are then transmitted over LH or ULH network to a second primary terminal where the signal is then demultiplexed from other optical signals and transmited to the proper extension terminal. At the extension terminal, the demultiplexed optical signal is transformed from its LH format back into a format suitable for interconnection to a CPE. Using this architecture, the signal under goes optical-to-electrical conversion only at the extension terminals or end points. These end points can be located in lessee's facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Pivotal Decisions LLC
    Inventors: Pawan P. Jaggi, Marvin R. Young, William David Bragg
  • Patent number: RE44016
    Abstract: The present invention is a wall anchor having a novel finger configuration. This wall anchor has a head and barrel portion with a bore extending therethrough and laterally expandable fingers in general alignment with the bore. Instead of a straight channel, a channel having curved portions separates the fingers. The curved portions of the channel define ramp surfaces that at least partially extend into the path of a securing member created by the bore. Thus, when a securing member, such as a bolt, pin, screw, nail or similar object is inserted into the bore to secure the wall anchor to the wall, the securing member contacts the two ramp surfaces, separating the fingers. As the fingers separate, a portion of the fingers near the ramp surfaces deform such that the ramp surfaces rest on an outer portion of the securing member, thus providing a securing force for connecting the wall anchor to the wall and relieving stress on the area at which the fingers are connected to the barrel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Clairson, Inc.
    Inventor: Lee E. Remmers
  • Patent number: RE44017
    Abstract: Compositions comprising N-acetyl-aldosamines, N-acetylamino acids, and related N-acetyl compounds are useful to alleviate or improve various cosmetic conditions and dermatological disorders, including changes or damage to skin, nail and hair associated with intrinsic aging and/or extrinsic aging, as well as changes or damage caused by extrinsic factors. N-acetyl-aldosamines, N-acetylamino acids, and related N-acetyl composition may further comprise a cosmetic, pharmaceutical or other topical agent to enhance or create synergetic effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventors: Ruey J. Yu, Eugene J. Van Scott
  • Patent number: RE44018
    Abstract: An information recording medium comprising a substrate having a recording surface provided with emboss pits or guiding grooves, a reflective film formed on the recording surface of the substrate, and a first protective film formed on the reflective film. This information recording medium is featured in that both sides of the information recording medium are constituted by a first surface provided with the protective film and by a second surface formed opposite to the first surface, and that an irradiated light beam is irradiated through the first surface, a recorded information being reproduced based on changes in light intensity of the reflected light beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Tadashi Kobayashi, Hisashi Yamada
  • Patent number: RE44019
    Abstract: The semiconductor module is provided that includes a semiconductor housing and a plurality of integrated circuit dice positioned within the housing. The semiconductor module also includes a programmable memory device positioned within the housing and electrically coupled to the plurality of integrated circuit dice. The programmable memory device is programmable to identify the integrated circuit dice that meet a predetermined standard, such as an operating frequency requirement, or a core timing grade. Further, a method is provided for accessing a semiconductor module. The above mentioned housing is provided to enclose the plurality of integrated circuit dice and the programmable memory device. The integrated circuit dice of the plurality of integrated circuit dice that meet a predetermined standard are then identified. The programmable memory device is subsequently programmed to identify the selected integrated circuit dice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Rambus Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas F. Fox, Sayeh Khalili, Belgacem Haba, David Nguyen, Richard Warmke, Xingchao Yuan
  • Patent number: RE44020
    Abstract: A method for reporting link information in a communication system including a communication terminal and a plurality of transceivers with each of which the communication terminal can communicate over a respective communication link; the method comprising: the communication terminal determining link information for each of the communication links; and the communication terminal periodically transmitting link messages, each link message containing link information for a first set of the communication links, and the link messages being formatted such that groups of successive link messages collectively contain link information for a larger set of the communication links.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Intellectual Ventures I LLC
    Inventor: Juan Melero
  • Patent number: RE44021
    Abstract: Apparatus, and an associated method, for providing transmit diversity to an open-loop MIMO communication scheme, such as a point to multipoint broadcast service in a cellular system. Multiple data streams of the broadcast data are broadcast by way of transmit diversity antennas of a sending station. The data symbols of the separate data streams are phase-shifted to be offset in phase from one another. The data streams, once the data symbols thereof are selectably phase-shifted by a phase shifter, are applied by an applier to sending nodes of the respective cells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Research In Motion Limited
    Inventor: Zhijun Cai
  • Patent number: RE44022
    Abstract: The invention relates to cyclopeptides, the method of their preparation and their utilization as inhibitors or activators of angiogenesis. These cyclopeptides comprise contain the following peptide sequence: -Arg-Ile-Lys-Pro-His-Gln-Gly- ??(SEQ ID NO: 1). They can be used in systems for inhibition of angiogenesis that comprises include a support (1), to which the cyclopeptide is affixed by means of coupled via an organic spacer arm (3) that may be provided with a moiety (4) capable of being spliced cleaved by an enzyme system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignees: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique, Universite Victor Sagalen Bordeaux 2, Universite de Bordeaux 1
    Inventors: Andreas Bikfalvi, Juliette Boulard, Antonin Boulard, Liliane Dequaire, Romane Boulard, Sara Boulard, Julie Deleris, Christiane Deleris, Marie Deleris
  • Patent number: RE44023
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are polysiloxane-polycarbonate copolymer articles. In one embodiment, a ?th inch thick bar formed from the thermoplastic composition has a B-Y ratio of less than or equal to about 1.75. This article, which has a dimension that is greater than or equal to 1.5 cm, comprises the thermoplastic composition which comprises a polysiloxane-polycarbonate copolymer, wherein the copolymer comprises repeating diorganosiloxane units of formula (1): wherein each R is, independently, a C1-13 monovalent organic group; and E has an average value of 20 to 35.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sabic Innovative Plastics IP B.V.
    Inventors: Gary Charles Davis, James Alan Mahood, Matthew Robert Pixton, Niles Richard Rosenquist, James Manio Silva, Joshua James Stone
  • Patent number: RE44024
    Abstract: This invention provides an isolated polynucleotide encoding an ECA1 polypeptide. Also provided is the isolated ECA1 polypeptide Further provided is an antibody that specifically recognizes and binds the ECA1 polypeptide or an epitope thereof. The polynucleotides, antibodies and/or polypeptides of this invention may be components of compositions, host cells and/or gene delivery vehicles, where appropriate. In one aspect, the host cell will produce recombinant ECA1, which is further defined herein. In another aspect, the host cell is an antigen presenting cell such as a dendritic cell, and it will display an antigenic portion of the ECA1 polypeptide on its surface. The polypeptides, proteins and compositions of this invention are useful to aid in the diagnosis of a neoplastic condition of a cell of endometrioid origin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: The University of Southern California
    Inventors: Michael F. Press, Bahman Saffari
  • Patent number: RE44025
    Abstract: Methods and/or associated devices and/or systems for providing power management in electronic circuits, including custom ICs, programmable logic devices, and application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) places portions of various power management solutions in the I/O ring or in I/O macros. The invention has numerous specific embodiments and applications to a wide variety of ICs and logic or other circuit design components including circuit modules, software descriptions of circuit modules and/or design or simulation or test systems for circuit development.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Jr. Shadt Electronics, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Eisenstadt, Jon Shiell
  • Patent number: RE44026
    Abstract: A method and system prevents a potential viewer, such as a child, from viewing programming under certain conditions. For example, a programming receiver may be set up to prevent a child from viewing programming having a rating outside of an authorized rating limit, and/or from viewing programming during certain time periods, and/or from viewing any and all programming. When the child wishes to view a desired program, and the programming receiver determines that viewing is not permitted, the child is asked if they wish to seek permission from their parent or guardian to view the desired program. If so, an electronic request is made to a communication device, associated with the parent or guardian, such as a computer, personal digital assistant, cellular phone, or another television. The Request provides the parent with information regarding the desired program, and perhaps the identity of the requester. Hence, the parent can grant or deny permission to view the desired programming, from a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Hyek Seong Kweon
  • Patent number: RE44027
    Abstract: A method and system prevents a potential viewer, such as a child, from viewing programming under certain conditions. For example, a programming receiver may be set up to prevent a child from viewing programming having a rating outside of an authorized rating limit, and/or from viewing programming during certain time periods, and/or from viewing any and all programming. When the child wishes to view a desired program, and the programming receiver determines that viewing is not permitted, the child is asked if they wish to seek permission from their parent or guardian to view the desired program. If so, an electronic request is made to a communication device, associated with the parent or guardian, such as a computer, personal digital assistant, cellular phone, or another television. The Request provides the parent with information regarding the desired program, and perhaps the identity of the requester. Hence, the parent can grant or deny permission to view the desired programming, from a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Hyek Seong Kweon
  • Patent number: 8375462
    Abstract: A visor assembly for an aviation helmet includes a lens, lens/strap anti-tear interface assemblies, retainer plates, and attachment strap assemblies. A friction strip mounted on the brim of the helmet operates to increase the friction between the visor lens and the helmet. The combined function of the friction strip and the configuration of the strap assemblies operate to maintain the visor in a deployed (as-worn) positioned in front of the wearer's face, even during high speed wind blasts of up to 600 KEAS (Knots Equivalent Air Speed).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Lamanna, George D. Hedges, Timothy G. Allard
  • Patent number: 8375463
    Abstract: The present invention is partial protective wear for protecting the front surface of a hand, the palm, front surface of the fingers, side surface of the fingers, webs and nails. The partial protective wear includes a body with a periphery edge that defines a palm portion, finger portion, web portion and nail portion. The body includes an attachment side and a protective side. The attachment side releasably attaches the partial protective wear on the front surface of the hand. The palm portion protects the palm of the hand. The finger portion protects the front surface and side surface of the fingers of the hand. The nail portion protects the nail plates and nail grooves of the hand and the web portion protects the webs of the hand.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Jennifer Pickering
  • Patent number: 8375464
    Abstract: An isolation gown is provided and includes a body cover portion that is open near the knee area of the wearer. The gown includes two sleeves, wherein each of the sleeves is configured to cover a wearer's arm and terminate in an arm opening located proximate a wearer's wrist, such that each arm of the wearer is covered by the sleeves to an area proximate the wearer's wrist, wherein each of the arm openings includes a continuous elastic portion surrounding the arm opening to resiliently contact the wearer's arm, and a collar defining a neck opening, wherein the collar defines a collar opening and includes a configurable connecting article to close the collar opening, wherein each of the body cover portion and the two sleeves are constructed from a material impervious to liquids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: McCann D. Birmingham
  • Patent number: 8375465
    Abstract: An exercise and training device for swimmers in the form of a shirt, top, or singlet that, due to the material of manufacture, increases the resistance to the swimmer's movement through the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Patrick Gerald Whaley
  • Patent number: 8375466
    Abstract: An article of clothing that can be worn by suicidal inmates and medical patients is provided. In one embodiment, the article of clothing is comprised of a high-strength fabric consisting of an outer layer of tear-proof material, an inner layer of soft material, and a third layer of insulating material between the outer and inner layers that provides warmth and bulk to the fabric. The three layers are joined together with a nylon thread. The article of clothing is further comprised of at least one sleeve section that is removably attached to at least in part to a torso section, wherein the at least one sleeve section detaches from the torso section to prevent a user from injuring or killing himself. In another embodiment, the article of clothing is comprised of a non-woven cellular material with very low tensile strength that cannot effectively be fashioned into a rope or noose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Servovita, Inc.
    Inventors: Ayla Tasezen, Robert E. Schilling
  • Patent number: 8375467
    Abstract: A safety apparatus for a person includes a harness and jacket worn by the person. The harness includes a dorsal ring and the jacket includes a dorsal opening aligned with the dorsal ring. A safety line can be attached to the dorsal ring without interfering with the operation of the jacket. The jacket is repeatably moveable between positions covering and uncovering the harness so that the jacket can be replaced with another one without removing the harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventors: Vince Real, Vickie Real, Vernon Heide, Doug G. Dixon
  • Patent number: 8375468
    Abstract: Clothing for the upper half of a body is provided, which makes it possible to reduce distortions of the body and alleviate fatigue by simply wearing the clothing and leading a usual life. A distortion reducing portion formed with a plurality of strip portions exhibiting a constrictive power stronger than that of a main body cloth is provided. The distortion reducing portion comprises one pair of strip portion sets each having at least three strip portions aligned so as to incline in the same direction. The pair of strip portion sets are arranged symmetrically while intersecting each other. The clothing also has at least two surrounded portions surrounded by a plurality of strip portions. The structure provided with such a distortion reducing portion improves the activity balance between the spinal column and muscles of the wearer. This corrects distortions in the body of the wearer and reduces the difference in hardness of muscles between the right side and left side in the back part of the wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Wacoal Corporation
    Inventors: Tomoko Okamoto, Mayumi Umemoto
  • Patent number: 8375469
    Abstract: A hat includes a crown, a band and a resilient member. The crown includes a front having a first height; a rear having a second height wherein the second height is greater than the first height; an interior including a forward portion; an exterior including a rearward portion; and a circumferential bottom edge separating the interior and exterior. The band is coupled to the interior of the crown. The resilient member includes a first end, a second end, and an intermediate portion between the first and second ends, wherein the first end extends through the exterior rearward portion of the crown, and wherein the second end extends through the exterior rearward portion of the crown, and wherein the intermediate portion is positioned between the band and the interior of the crown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Ann-Marie Duwyn-Zylstra
  • Patent number: 8375470
    Abstract: A garment with an adjustable waistband and modesty flap includes a garment material having a waistband that originates and terminates at a closable seam, the seam having opposed edges extending downwardly from the waistband that define a V-shaped open configuration when the edges are spaced apart from one another and a closed configuration when the edges are adjacent one another. A waistband extension member extends from a waistband terminal end. A plurality of waistband fasteners are spaced apart along a waistband outer surface, each waistband fastener having a configuration complementary a waistband coupling member for selective attachment thereto. A modesty flap is attached to the garment generally adjacent one seam opposed edge and configured to extend across the seam open configuration. A plurality of flap fasteners are spaced apart along the waistband inner surface, each flap fastener having a configuration complementary to a flap coupling member for selective attachment thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Marie B. Valentine
  • Patent number: 8375471
    Abstract: Fibers, such as textile fibers, having electrical components deposited thereon. More particularly, one or more electrical components are formed directly onto the surface of at least one fiber. The fiber having the electrical component formed thereon may then be interlaced with other fibers to form a larger piece of fabric, which can be employed to produce an article of clothing. A group of transistors and piezoelectric components forming an accelerometer may be woven onto one or more natural or synthetic fibers. The fibers may then be employed as the warp, weft, or both, of a woven piece of fabric, or used to form a knitted piece of fabric. The fabric piece can then be cut and sewn to form a wearable item, such as a shirt, a pair of pants, a hat, or the upper piece of a shoe that includes the accelerometer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventor: Swatee N. Surve
  • Patent number: 8375472
    Abstract: A system of tethers for controlling a driver's head during operation of a vehicle, comprising: at least two frontal straps having first ends attached to a helmet and second ends attached to shoulder straps, torso strap and/or vehicle's seat belt; at least two rear straps having first ends attached to a helmet and second ends attached to shoulder straps or the support member; and wherein the frontal and rear straps are taut during normal operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Simpson Performance Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Trevor P. Ashline
  • Patent number: 8375473
    Abstract: An improved helmet mounting device for an optical device, such as a night vision device, is provided. The mounting device herein includes sliding carriage arms and a pivot member for pivoting the viewing device up and away from the user's line of sight. In the depicted preferred embodiments, an optional reinforced mounting fastener system is provided. In another aspect, a movable sensor element may provided on the helmet mount for controlling operation of an attached vision device. In still further embodiments, a breakaway mechanism is provided which allows the user to select between a rigid attachment between the helmet and the optical device and a breakaway attachment wherein the optical device will break away from the helmet when an applied force exceeds a threshold amount of force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Wilcox Industries Corp.
    Inventors: Marc J. Celona, Gary M. Lemire, James W. Teetzel
  • Patent number: 8375474
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for a helmet with a rotatable face shield includes an operating element that, when the shield is in a fully closed position, holds the shield from the outside against the outer wall of the helmet main body, and to open the shield, spreads out the shield and disengages a projection from a fitting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Michio Arai
  • Patent number: 8375475
    Abstract: A method is provided for making a fluid-circulating heat exchanging garment, the method including providing a fabric panel for assembly of the heat exchanging garment, defining a tubing layout on the fabric panel with straight portions and bend portions defined in a flexible tubing. The straight portions of the tubing are affixed to the fabric panel and a mold is inserted into the inner radius of each bend portion. The mold has a shape corresponding to each bend portion and a channel having a radius adapted to closely fit over the tubing. The fabric panel and tubing are heated to an annealing temperature of the tubing. After cooling the fabric panel, the molds are removed, leaving the tubing reshaped at the bend portions to a desired radius.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Flight Suits
    Inventor: Joseph L. Rose
  • Patent number: 8375476
    Abstract: An odor removal system and device are provided for removing odors from standard gravity fed and water pressure operated toilets. The system includes a fan assembly for directing air from the toilet bowl and overflow tube through a filter containing an appropriate filter material. It operates upon instruction from a mechanism designed to determine when the toilet is in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Calgon Carbon Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas R. Pollack, William J. Aldridge
  • Patent number: 8375477
    Abstract: The present invention relates to wave pools and diversion channels that capture high kinetic energy portions of a wave generated within the wave pool, and redirects the captured wave portions to the vicinity of wave formation, preferably timed so as reinforce a subsequently generated wave. The high kinetic energy within the diversion channel creates an additional feature in the form of an action river for riders of a wave pool to enjoy. At the same time, capturing of portions of the wave reduces the backwash of the wave and stabilizes the level of water within the wave pool, especially for embodiments with wave generators and pools capable of high volume waves. Riders may enter the diversion channel and ride from the distal, beach end of the wave pool to the proximal, wave generating end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Garrett Tyler Johnson
  • Patent number: 8375478
    Abstract: A walk-in bathtub has an outward swinging door mounted on a door jam. The door is provided with a latching mechanism that includes an extendible latching pin for receipt within a latch receiver in the door jam. The latching pin has a contoured face for guiding the latching pin into the latch receiver, and for drawing the door close to the door jam to compress a gasket provided between the door and the door jam. A push button lock selectively locks the latching mechanism in the latched position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: 5 Star Steam Rooms L.L.C.
    Inventor: Zhi Gang Luo
  • Patent number: 8375479
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus for recycling wasted heat using waste hot water that includes: a tub that charges and discharges waste hot water; a heat exchange unit that transfers the heat of waste hot water to cold water supplied to a shower bat; and an upper cover that the open upper portion of the tub, and is friendly to the environment by reducing the amount of fuel consumed to supply hot water and it is possible to reduce the fuel cost by the reduced amount of fuel consumption.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Gomyung-Enertech Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yong Il Kim
  • Patent number: 8375480
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a leak-proof shower module suitable for use in constructing a tiled shower is implemented in one embodiment when a manufacturer provides a tool for creating the leak-proof shower module. The tool includes a cavity portion and a core portion which define a shape corresponding to the shape of the shower module. Next, the manufacturer inserts at least one form into the tool between the cavity portion and the core portion at a location corresponding to a drain aperture, injects a polymeric material into the tool to produce the shower module, and removes the shower module from the tool while retaining the form in place. In one embodiment, the manufacturer clamps the shower module to a rigid surface such that the module is prevented from flexing and the drain aperture rests in a hole in the rigid surface, and cools the shower module while retaining the form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Tile Redi, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph R. Cook
  • Patent number: 8375481
    Abstract: A shower water recycling system for toilet flushing that includes a storage tank having a water pipe inlet operationally controlled by means of a float valve, the float valve maintaining a reserve volume of water within an interior cavity of the storage tank, and a pump to pump water from an outlet of the storage tank to an extant toilet cistern, the storage tank having a rotatable plug disposed in a centrally draining top surface, said plug moveable between a first drain position and a second drain position whereby a drainage collar alternately sealingly engages and disengages with a drainage pipe disposed bypassing the interior cavity, and a flush arm slidingly activates and deactivates a flush valve to drain the storage tank, as desired, whereby shower water is conserved and recycled for use in an extant toilet, as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Joshua Gibbins
  • Patent number: 8375482
    Abstract: A foldable mattress and removable pillow top with a means for releasable attachment is not damaged during excessive folding such as when used in a sofa bed. Fastening pairs comprising zippers affixed to the mattress and pillow top in opposing complementary fashion with a wide fold space defined therebetween allow the mattress and attached pillow top to be repeatedly folded and unfolded and avoid crimping and damage to the zipper halves, mattress and attached pillow top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Axess Direct, Inc.
    Inventor: W. Neil Owens
  • Patent number: 8375483
    Abstract: A daybed is disclosed that is convertible between a sitting configuration suitable for use, for example, as a sofa, and a lying configuration suitable for use, for example, as a bed. The daybed generally comprises a bed platform, a back panel connected to the bed platform, a mattress positioned at least partly on the bed platform, and a support member movable relative to the bed platform and back panel for use in at least partly helping convert the daybed. For example, in example embodiments the support member includes a storage container that may be positioned at least partly under the bed platform when the daybed is in the sitting configuration. And the storage container may be moved forward of the bed platform when the daybed is converted to the lying configuration so that at least part of the mattress may be also positioned on the storage container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Night and Day Furniture LLC
    Inventors: Steven R. Ray, Howard Porter, Joel Grossman
  • Patent number: 8375484
    Abstract: A physical assistive robotic device may include a frame including an upright support member, a lateral member slidably engaged with the upright support member, a handle slidably engaged with the lateral member, an elevation actuator coupled to the upright support member and the lateral member, and a lateral actuator coupled to the lateral member and the handle. The elevation actuator translates the lateral member and the lateral actuator translates the handle to transition a user between a standing position and a non-standing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignees: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc., Illinois Institute of Technology
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Ota, Masaru Ryumae, Keiichi Sato, Shin Sano
  • Patent number: 8375485
    Abstract: An application for a system, method and apparatus that directs light and heat towards an area of pain of a person while the person rests on a section of furniture (e.g., sleeps on a mattress). The light and heat are provided by an array of LEDS that are removably situated within a cavity that is, for example, formed or cut into the furniture/mattress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Anodyne Therapy, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Craig Turtzo
  • Patent number: 8375486
    Abstract: A swaddle accessory to restrain an infant or child's arms has a single panel that is both wide and long enough to wrap entirely both of the infant's arms, hook and loop fasteners to secure the arm restraints and pockets to contain the hands to prevent them from breaking out of a swaddle made from a receiving blanket or other swaddle device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Tamara Walker Earnest
  • Patent number: 8375487
    Abstract: A triangular prism-shaped wedge, fashioned of a sturdy foam core with soft and malleable properties, fashioned to occupy the space that commonly exists between the head of a mattress and the wall or headboard that the mattress is binding against. It is configured to occupy this space, aided via the force of friction, to ensure that items such as pillows, remote controls, and other bedside items do not fall behind the mattress, and onto the floor. It may be configured with an assortment of interchangeable pockets, as well as an embedded stereo speaker system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventors: Brent A. Mohr, Edward Peisner
  • Patent number: 8375488
    Abstract: An adjustable bed frame assembly includes a center frame comprising two substantially parallel side frame members connected by two substantially parallel connector frame members. The adjustable bed frame assembly also includes a base frame that includes a plurality of legs for mounting on a floor is rigidly affixed to the center frame. The adjustable bed frame assembly further includes a head frame that comprises two substantially parallel side frame members connected by at least one connector frame member. The adjustable bed frame assembly also includes an actuator for raising and lowering the head frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Martin B. Rawls-Meehan
  • Patent number: 8375489
    Abstract: A hospital bed convertible to a side egress chair bed includes a base having opposite end portions; a lifting mechanism secured to the base between the end portions; a rotating frame mounted on the lifting mechanism and configured to rotate horizontally relative to the base; and a patient support surface pivotally secured to the rotating frame. The patient support surface includes a back panel, a seat panel, and a leg panel that are configured to articulate relative to each other from a co-planar configuration to a chair configuration. The leg panel includes a first section pivotally connected to the seat panel and a second section that is separable from the leg panel first section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Piedmont 361, LLC
    Inventor: Nikon Manouchehri
  • Patent number: 8375490
    Abstract: A baby supporting device is provided which includes a frame. The frame includes a first portion for mounting onto a wall and a second portion pivotally coupled to the first portion and rotatable between a first position and a second position. A first stop member extends from the first portion, and a second stop member extends from the second portion, such that when the second stop member engages the first stop member it stops the second portion at the second position. A first surface covers at least a portion of the first portion, and a second surface covers at least a portion of the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Bobrick Washroom Equipment, Inc.
    Inventors: Dikran Babikian, Branko Bem
  • Patent number: 8375491
    Abstract: Disclosed is an infant lap support comprising an infant support panel having a first edge and a second edge, a leg attachment member having two or more attachment points, wherein a first attachment point is attached to the first edge of the infant support panel and wherein a second attachment point is attached to a first fastener, and a second fastener attached to a second edge of the infant support panel, wherein the first fastener and the second fastener are configured to be selectively fastened to each other around the legs of a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Don E. Hinderliter, II
  • Patent number: 8375492
    Abstract: The mattress structure comprises: a mattress body; a fixing plate, being firmly disposed in the mattress body and having a plurality of fixing holes; a moving plate, being disposed in the mattress body and above the fixing plate, the moving plate having a plurality of penetrating holes; a plurality of flexible members, being disposed on the surface of the top end of the moving plate; a plurality of fixing members, each of the fixing members having a fastening end and a connecting end; and a plurality of lifting devices, being disposed at the bottom of the moving plate, by means of the lifting devices driving the moving plate and the fixing members holding the flexible members, the flexible members being then compressed in order to adjust the flexible supporting forces of the mattress body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Han-Chung Hsu
  • Patent number: 8375493
    Abstract: A one piece foam mattress core or innerspring encasement is a single contiguous piece of foam having a mattress core or base and four perimeter side supports and which fits with a mattress core or innerspring to provide an integrated mattress construction. The mattress core or base of the encasement is positioned below the mattress core or innerspring proximate to or against a bottom surface. The mattress core or base and the perimeter side supports are connected along fold lines or grooves in the single piece of foam so that the perimeter side walls can be folded to vertical positions about a perimeter of the mattress core or innerspring. The single piece of foam of the encasement is producible in different sizes to fit with different size mattress cores or innersprings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Sealy Technology LLC
    Inventors: Larry K. DeMoss, Julian T. Young, Timothy M. Witherell, Christopher D. Page
  • Patent number: 8375494
    Abstract: Cleaning compositions containing a corrosion inhibitor are provided for removing soil from carpets, upholstery and the like without subjecting common metal alloys used in aircraft and other constructions to corrosive attack. Cleaning compositions include at least one dispersing agent, at least one anti-redeposition agent, at least one corrosion inhibitor, at least one pH modifier, at least one chelating agent and at least one stabilizing agent. The compositions also optionally include at least one fragrance and/or at least one preservative agent. Methods for making and using the cleaning compositions are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Clean Control Corporation
    Inventor: Cory S. Hammock
  • Patent number: 8375495
    Abstract: A control method of a laundry machine comprising a water supply, washing and rinsing cycle, the control method includes first determination step performed prior to the rinsing cycle and determining a kind of detergent, second determination step performed during a first rinsing course of the rinsing cycle and determining an amount of remained detergent in a rinsing water, and condition determination step of at least one following rinsing course based on the kind and amount of the remained detergent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventors: Pyoung Hwan Kim, Eun Jin Park, Dong Woo Kang, Myoung Suk You, Deug Hee Lee, Kyu Won Lee, Hyung Yong Kim
  • Patent number: 8375496
    Abstract: A ramp assembly provides a transition surface from a vehicle interior to an alighting surface. The ramp assembly includes a ramp portion that rotates between a stowed position and a deployed position. A panel is coupled to the ramp portion about a first axis. The ramp assembly further includes a linkage that is coupled to the ramp portion. An actuator is coupled to the linkage to move the ramp portion through a deployment motion. The deployment motion includes a first phase during which the linkage rotates the ramp portion about the first axis. During a second phase of the deployment motion, the linkage moves the first axis from a raised position to a lowered position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Lift-U, division of Hogan Mfg., Inc.
    Inventors: David Johnson, Donald Morris
  • Patent number: 8375497
    Abstract: A multiple planar surface baffle provides enhanced water flow and leaf capture benefits for pool/spa vacuum heads. A first planar surface is a support plate for attachment to a vacuum head at open segment locations between adjacent support wheels along both front and back edges of the vacuum head. The second and third planar surfaces are displaced at angles relative to one-another, and relative to the support plate. The second and third planar surfaces cooperate when attached to the vacuum head to provide a larger capture opening, to minimize displacement flow of water over the vacuum head, and to provide a water profile that induces enhanced downward water currents to better entrain leaves and other low density debris.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Inventor: Steven C. Fitzen
  • Patent number: 8375498
    Abstract: A transversely elongated mounting bar curved rearwardly from a centerline and mounting longitudinally projecting bristles on the front side thereof to terminate in free ends deposed in a working plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Monoarc Inc.
    Inventors: Everett O. Fuller, Martyn L. Fuller