Patents Issued in May 14, 2013
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Patent number: RE44213Abstract: The invention concerns a separator, wherein the mixture, after passing through the inlet channels of the container body (1), penetrates into the admission chamber (30) of the rotor (2), where blades (35) arranged in star formation and perpendicular to the axis of rotation produce a centrifugal propulsion and, further, compact the components with greater density, thus facilitating extraction thereof. The thus modified mixture passes into the separating chamber (31), where blades (36) arranged in star formation and parallel to the axis of rotation, through their centrifugal force, push the components with greater density outwards; the latter having penetrated into the collecting cells (41) of the grid (34) which is coated on the outside of the separating chamber, through holes (42) exit from the rotor upon reaching the accumulation chamber (13). The fluid medium which, countered by a suitable pressure, cannot penetrate into the accumulation chamber, exit through evacuation channels.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2004Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Luigi Pietro Della Casa
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Patent number: RE44214Abstract: An unmanned integrated RES 12 integrates all of its components except the reflector 22 into a single console 30 that is positioned at the side of a road and has a CPU 36 that controls calibration, verification and data gathering. The RES's source 32 and receiver 34 are preferably stacked one on top of the other such that the IR beam 24 traverses a low and high path as it crosses the road 14. This allows the RES to detect both low and high ground clearance vehicles. To maintain the vehicle processing and identification throughput, the speed sensor 54 and ALPR 48,50 detect the passing vehicles at steep angles, approximately 20 to 35 degrees. In a preferred system, a manned control center 16 communicates with a large number of the unmanned integrated RES to download emissions data, perform remote diagnostics, and, if necessary, dispatch a technician to perform maintenance on a particular RES.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Envirotest Systems Holdings Corp.Inventors: Jay Peterson, David R Nelson, Troy P. Bahan, George C. Polchin, Michael D. Jack
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Patent number: RE44215Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide a semiconductor optoelectric device with high luminescent efficiency and a method of manufacturing the same. The semiconductor optoelectric device 18 according to the present invention is constructed by depositing compound-semiconductor layers 13 and 14 on a monocrystalline substrate 11 of a hexagonal close-packed structure. The shape of the monocrystalline substrate 11 is a parallelogram. Individual sides of the parallelogram are parallel to a <11-20> orientation. As the monocrystalline substrate, sapphire, zinc oxide or silicon carbide may be used. As the compound-semiconductor layers, an n-type GaN layer 13 and p-type GaN layer 14 may be used.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Masahiro Yamamoto, Hidetoshi Fujimoto, Yoshihiro Kokubun, Masayuki Ishikawa, Shinji Saito, Yukie Nishikawa, John Rennie
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Patent number: RE44216Abstract: An optical imaging system for inspection microscopes with which lithography masks can be checked for defects particularly through emulation of high-aperture scanner systems. The microscope imaging system for emulating high-aperture imaging systems comprises imaging optics, a detector and an evaluating unit, wherein polarizing optical elements are selectively arranged in the illumination beam path for generating different polarization states of the illumination beam and/or in the imaging beam path for selecting different polarization components of the imaging beam, an optical element with a polarization-dependent intensity attenuation function can be introduced into the imaging beam path, images of the mask and/or sample are received by the detector for differently polarized beam components and are conveyed to the evaluating unit for further processing.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Carl Zeiss SMS GmbHInventors: Michael Totzeck, Heiko Feldmann, Toralf Gruner, Karl-Heinz Schuster, Joern Greif-Wuestenbecker, Thomas Scheruebl, Wolfgang Harnisch, Norbert Rosenkranz, Ulrich Matejka
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Patent number: RE44217Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an impact and temperature resistant housing that also resists being removed from its fixed mounting position. Additionally, the present invention resists being fashioned into a weapon if it is removed from its mounted position. In general, the present invention comprises a base section, conical section, terminal support section, and corresponding center terminal.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2005Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: TimeKeeping Systems, Inc.Inventors: Thomas F. Dutton, Jay Cross
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Patent number: RE44218Abstract: A semiconductor memory device includes a CAS latency mode detecting means for outputting a CAS latency control signal in response to a CAS latency mode; and an auto-precharge control means for controlling timing of an auto-precharge operation in response to the CAS latency control signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: 658868 N.B. Inc.Inventors: Jae-Hyuk Im, Woon-Bok Lee
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Patent number: RE44219Abstract: Disclosed is an adaptive receiving MIMO (multi input and multi output) system and method which decides a symbol detecting order so as to estimate the symbol having the minimum summation of weights of least square errors at the time of estimating the symbol for respective equalizers provided in parallel by the number of transmit antennas, and updates filter tap coefficients based on the RLS algorithm according to the detecting orders. Therefore, the filter tap coefficients are directly updated without tracking channels in the time-varying channel environment, and accordingly, detection performance very similar to those of the channel tracking and conventional V-BLAST scheme is provided with reduced complexity.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research InstituteInventors: Hee-Jung Yu, Ji-Hoon Choi, Yong-Hoon Lee
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Patent number: RE44220Abstract: An RF electronic identification system (10) is disclosed and claimed. The system includes at least one transponder encoder (14.1) for writing data into a memory arrangement (52) of a selected transponder (1.1) of a plurality of transponders (1.1 to 1.n) adapted to receive data from the at least one encoder. The system further includes at least one verifier (16) for interrogating a selected transponder (1.1) and to read data stored in the transponder. The encoder includes a controller (42) for providing an identification code characteristic of the encoder to form part of the data to be written into the transponder. The verifier includes computing means (56) for extracting the identification code from the data read thereby and for comparing the code to authorized codes. An indicator (18) provides an indication whether the identification code corresponds to any of the authorized codes or not. A method of verifying the authenticity of a transponder is also disclosed and claimed.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: ZIH Corp.Inventor: Christopher Gordon Gervase Turner
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Patent number: RE44221Abstract: Provided is a method for verifying a pattern of a semiconductor device. In the method, a designed layout of target patterns is provided, and transferring the designed layout on a wafer to form wafer patterns. Wafer patterns image contour is obtain. The image contour for wafer patterns on the designed layout are matched, After edge differences between the designed layout and the wafer patterns image contour are extracted, a checking layout for detecting wafer pattern defects is obtain by adding the edge differences on the designed layout. Defects on the checking layout is identified to verify the patterns in view of processes before fabrication of a photomask.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2012Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Hynix Semiconductor Inc.Inventor: Hyun Jo Yang
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Patent number: RE44222Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and systems for transmitting streams of data. The present invention also relates to generating packet watermarks and packet watermark keys. The present invention also relates to a computerized system for packaging data for transmission to a user. The system may utilize computer code to generate a bandwidth rights certificate that may include: at least one cryptographic credential; routing information for the transmission; and, optionally, a digital signature of a certificate owner; a unique identification code of a certificate owner; a certificate validity period; and pricing information for use of bandwidth. The present invention also relates to an electronic method and system for purchasing good and services by establishing an account whereby a customer is credited with a predetermined amount of bandwidth usage, and then charges are assessed against the account in an amount of bandwidth usage which corresponds to the agreed upon purchase value for the selected item.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2012Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Scott Moskowitz
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Patent number: RE44223Abstract: The method, device and medium according to the invention provide (restricted) forward compatibility to higher device/medium versions. It is provided a defined behavior of an older device, if it has to handle information of a higher version number than supported by itself. A device according to the invention is able to provide restricted (e.g. playback) functionality of its records to older devices. So, a newer device is assured, that older devices will not damage the additionally stored information: This is important, because only a newer device is able to understand these additional information, and to process it correctly.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2002Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Thomson LicensingInventor: Macro Winter
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Patent number: 8438662Abstract: A lens assembly for securing in an opening in a face plate of a face protector has a first, retainer lens of shape and dimensions configured to be secured in the front opening of a face plate and having a curvature substantially matching the curvature of the face plate. A second lens of smaller dimensions is secured behind the first lens to provide a lens-in-a-lens configuration. The second lens extends across a wearer's eyes when the face protector is worn and the first lens has side portions which extend around at least part of the opposite sides of the face to provide peripheral vision. The lens assembly may be releasably secured in the face plate opening and one or both lenses may be interchangeable with sets of lenses having different properties such as lens shade.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Jerry Dean Wright
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Patent number: 8438663Abstract: A lens assembly for securing in an opening in a face plate of a face protector has a first, retainer lens of shape and dimensions configured to be secured in the front opening of a face plate and having a curvature substantially matching the curvature of the face plate. A second lens of smaller dimensions is secured behind the first lens to provide a lens-in-a-lens configuration. The lens assembly may be releasably secured in the face plate opening and the second lens is interchangeable with sets of lenses having different properties such as lens shade. The retainer assembly has a back cover and a gasket or spacer between the back cover and second lens to allow second lenses of different depths to be secured in the assembly.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Jerry Dean Wright
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Patent number: 8438664Abstract: Rescue harness devices are designed for incorporation into protective coats of firefighter or other types of first responders such that when deployed, the rescue harness forms a closed loop that cinches around an upper torso region under the armpits of an individual donning the protective coat, to thereby positively secure the individual and pull directly on the individual's body.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Rescue Equipment Laboratories International, LLCInventors: Thomas J. Fee, Michael P. Fee, Donna M. Haskell, Frank Haskell, Patricia A. Harty, Michael P. Harty
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Patent number: 8438665Abstract: A garment includes a hood that can be adjusted by its wearer. The hood has opposite side portions and a face opening. The wearer can use the hood's drawstring to scrunch the face opening around the wearer's face with the side portions of the hood covering the wearer's ears. The wearer can also adjust the hood of the garment by folding the side portions of the hood back over a portion of the remainder of the hood in a manner such that the wearer's ears are exposed.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Gander Mountain CompanyInventors: Colin Roemer, Peter Reichel
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Patent number: 8438666Abstract: An ear warmer includes a frame with a first band and a second band coupled to the frame. The first band includes a first ear portion coupled thereto. The second band includes a second ear portion coupled thereto. The first band and the second band can be adjusted relative to each other to adjust the overall length of the band and the distance between the first ear portion and the second ear portion.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: 180s, Inc.Inventor: Brian Edward Le Gette
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Patent number: 8438667Abstract: An article of apparel may include may include a garment portion and at least one protective element. The garment portion and the protective element have a configuration that forms a gap, separation, or pleat structure through, for example, folding or overlapping of a textile element of the garment portion. The gap, separation, or pleat structure may permit the protective element to move independent of other portions of the apparel at the joint, thereby enhancing a range of movement of the individual and the overall comfort of the apparel.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: NIKE, Inc.Inventors: Daniela Grogro, David Turner
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Patent number: 8438668Abstract: A stabilization strap apparatus for a helmet having a shell with at least one chin strap having a left section and a right section connected to the shell, includes an adjusting assembly shaped to fit a rear occipital portion of a wearer's cranium; and a left occipital strap section and a right occipital strap section, each strap section having a first end securable respectively to the left section and the right section of the at least one chin strap, downwardly of and spaced-apart from the casket shell and a second end slidably attached to the adjusting assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Louis Garneau Sports Inc.Inventors: Louis Garneau, Dominic Hamel, Paul Isabelle
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Patent number: 8438669Abstract: Protective components may include a plate element and a cushioning element that are secured together with a hook-and-loop fastening system. The cushioning element may include a pair of material layers and a plurality of pads located between the material layers. The plate element may include a polymer material and the pads may include a polymer foam material, with the polymer material of the plate element having greater rigidity and density than the polymer foam material of the pads.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: NIKE, Inc.Inventor: David Turner
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Patent number: 8438670Abstract: A gravity flush toilet system is provides that includes a toilet bowl assembly having a toilet bowl and a tank, wherein the bowl includes a trapway extending from the bottom of the toilet bowl to a sewage line. The toilet system is capable of operating at multiple flush volumes without loss of siphonic function or significant change in the surface area of the water in the bowl. The multiple flush volumes allow the user to select appropriate water usages for the required waste removal without diminishing the performance of the toilet, resulting in significant water savings.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: AS IP Holdco, LLCInventors: David Grover, Zheng Chen, James McHale
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Patent number: 8438671Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for sequentially supporting, opening and closing a pool-deck lid covering below-deck troughs housing coordinated with the operation of powered pool cover systems housed in the troughs. In certain embodiments the system comprises in combination: a front, longitudinal seating structure, an upwardly movably, cantilever bracket structure, hydraulic/pneumatic means, and a hydraulic/pneumatic actuation control means.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Harry J. Last
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Patent number: 8438672Abstract: An integrated bathroom electronic system including a plurality of sensors to detect conditions within a bathroom and to provide signals indicative thereof to a controller. A plurality of distinct and exclusive modules or subsystems are illustratively provided for integration into the system. Such modules may include a quick hot water module, a roman tub module, a custom shower module, a hands free faucet module, and a tub shower module. In certain illustrative shower modules, a user interface includes a plurality of user defined presets, each preset including a shower setting stored in memory.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Masco Corporation of IndianaInventors: Ryan A. Reeder, Spencer L. Stohler, Andrew B. Mendenhall, Paul T. Zink, Robert W. Rodenbeck
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Patent number: 8438673Abstract: A removable and interchangeable soap dish and/or other fixture which has a wall mount segment having a male connector with screw holes. The mount is L-shaped with the wall side and connector both rectangular shaped and connected perpendicularly. Protruding out from the mount and perpendicular to the male connector is a handle. The mount is attached to any wall using standard screws which fit into the screw holes. A female slot which is shaped and designed to receive the male connector is molded inside the fixture. A securing devise at the end of the slot allows the male end to slide in then lock into place. Attach the fixture to the wall mount by lining up the female slot and male connector and apply pressure to push them together. The locking device is deactivated by applying minimum pressure to the fixture as it is pulled away from the mount.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2007Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Frederica Fay Bell
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Patent number: 8438674Abstract: A dish washing pan constructed of a housing having a bottom and multiple sidewalls integrally formed with the bottom to provide a washing chamber, a plurality of legs attached at the underside of the housing bottom to support the bottom over a sink surface and a plurality of holes provided in each of the sidewalls at a location spaced downwardly from a top rim of the sidewall. The plurality of holes is disposed closer to the top rim than the bottom of the housing. An outlet is provided in one of the sidewalls that can be closed to retain water in the washing chamber or opened to enable the water to be discharged from the washing chamber. The outlet is disposed closer to the bottom of the housing than the top rim.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Frank R. Balkum
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Patent number: 8438675Abstract: Devices and methods are presented for elevating seat devices. The device allows a vertical and forward motion of a seat from a first position to a second position. Such motion more resembles a natural body motion during the standing motion. A similar but converse motion is also possible with movement from a standing position to a sitting position.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Liftseat CorporationInventors: Graham Robert Byrne Henshaw, Daniel A. Peterson, John David Hartman, David Chesley, Jeffrey Cogan Nelson
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Patent number: 8438676Abstract: A seating unit containing a foldable bed includes: a seating unit frame having a pair of opposed arms; a housing including a storage cavity, the housing fixed to the arms of the seating unit frame; a seat section; an intermediate section; a head section; and a mechanism having pivotally interconnected links, the mechanism interconnecting the base with the head, intermediate and seat sections.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Ultra-Mek, Inc.Inventor: Marcus L. Murphy
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Patent number: 8438677Abstract: A patient lift includes a base and a mast extending from the base. The patient lift also includes a first elongated leg having a first longitudinal axis extending from the base. A first caster assembly is mounted for pivotal movement relative to the first elongated leg about a first carriage axis. The first caster assembly includes a first caster truck and a plurality of first assembly casters mounted to the first caster truck. The patient lift also includes a second elongated leg having a second longitudinal axis extending from the base. A second caster assembly is mounted for pivotal movement relative to the second elongated leg about a second carriage axis. The second caster assembly includes a second caster truck and a plurality of second assembly casters mounted to the second caster truck.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Joerns Healthcare, LLCInventor: Melvin C. Biersteker
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Patent number: 8438678Abstract: A bedding foundation has a wire core which may be nestably stacked with numerous other such assemblies for transportation, thereby avoiding the need to compress and tie multiple assemblies for shipping. The wire core which includes an upper wire grid made of four distinct border wires and support wires extending between two opposing border wires. Each support wire has flattened valleys below the plane of the upper wire grid, each flattened valley being adapted to be secured to a wooden base frame. The wire cores, wooden bases and corner guards may be shipped separately.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: L&P Property Management CompanyInventors: Von W. Brottlund, John J. Brunnert, Darrell A. Richmond
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Patent number: 8438679Abstract: An article for use on a mattress includes a bedding article and means for orienting the bedding article on a mattress. The means for orienting the bedding article on a mattress may be hidden from view when the bedding article is installed on a mattress. The means for orienting the bedding article on a mattress may be one or more of color contrasting sections, indicia, labels, or stitching. The bedding article has two sides, a top end, a bottom, an opening for seating around the bed, an edge around the opening, and four corners, with two corners being at the top end and two corners being at the bottom end. An article for use as a cover for an underlying item is also disclosed, with the article including a cover article and means for orienting the cover article on an underlying item.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2008Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Homtex, Inc.Inventor: Gerald Wootten, Jr.
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Patent number: 8438681Abstract: A furniture device comprising a section, having a fundament, a plate member, a first set of elastic members, an array of connections, a plurality of connection members attached to the first set of elastic members and to the fundament and a deformation member adapted to displace the plate member. Each elastic member comprises an elastic element having a first spring constant and a flexible envelope that encloses the elastic element. The connections located between the upper and lower ends of the elastic members forming an upper part with an upper length extending between the upper ends of the elastic members and the connections, and a lower part extending between the connections and the lower ends of the elastic members. The upper length is mainly unaffected by the displacement of the plate member and the lower length is adjustable by means of the displacement of the plate member.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Pass of Sweden ABInventor: Michael Viberg
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Patent number: 8438682Abstract: A mattress cover is disclosed for redirecting shear on a patient's skin away from the areas of the body relatively more likely to develop decubitus ulcers. The mattress cover includes an upper portion designed to cover the topside of a mattress, and at least one shear transfer zone attached to an underside of the upper portion of the mattress cover. The shear transfer zone(s) may be made of a low shear material so as to create a low friction interface between the mattress and the mattress cover to reduce shear forces exerted by the mattress. Additionally, the shear transfer zone(s) may be arranged such that a large portion of the shear forces exerted by the mattress can be redirected to areas of the body that are relatively less likely to develop decubitus ulcers.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Span-America Medical Systems, Inc.Inventors: James R. O'Reagan, Richard W. Raburn
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Patent number: 8438683Abstract: A ramp assembly is suitable for use in a vehicle to provide a transition surface from the vehicle floor to an alighting surface. The ramp assembly includes an inner panel fixedly associated with the vehicle floor and ramp support slidingly associated with the inner panel. The ramp support is reciprocal between (1) a retracted position when the ramp assembly is in a stowed position and (2) an extended position when the ramp assembly is in a deployed position. A ramp portion is rotatably coupled at a first end to a first end of the ramp support. An intermediate panel is coupled to the ramp support and extends from the inner panel to the ramp portion when the ramp assembly is in the deployed position. When the ramp assembly is in the stowed position, the ramp portion extends inwardly from the first end of the ramp support.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Lift-U, Division of Hogan Mfg., Inc.Inventors: Donald Morris, David Johnson
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Patent number: 8438684Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for cleaning a surface which is immersed in a liquid, comprising a hollow body, members which are integral with the hollow body and which come into contact with the immersed surface, a filtration chamber, at least one electric motor which is carried by the hollow body, and a control unit which is configured to control the motor. For at least one movement configuration of the apparatus, at least one non-steering non-driving rolling member in contact with the immersed surface is arranged relative to the instantaneous drive orientation so as to apply a gyration torque of the apparatus only due to such an arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Zodiac Pool Care EuropeInventors: Emmanuel Mastio, Philippe Blanc-Tailleur, Philippe Pichon
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Patent number: 8438685Abstract: The present invention relates generally to an apparatus for cleaning or otherwise treating a floored surface that includes a platform adapted to support the weight of an operator. In addition, one embodiment of the present invention is capable of generally performing 360° turns to facilitate the treatment of difficult to access portions of the floored surface.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2012Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Karcher North America, Inc.Inventors: Roger Pedlar, Brian J. Doll, Rusty Simmon, Nevin Green, Daniel Pearson, Loi X. Tran, Robert S. Gorsky, Eric L. Shark, Daniel C. Venard
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Patent number: 8438686Abstract: A device to remove pests from a living area that includes a disposable piece of paper attached thereto. Includes a flat flexible paddle-like head and an elongated handle. Attached to the head is a paper holding clip for holding the disposable paper. The disposable paper has lightly tacky adhesive glue on one side. The paper holding clip is squeezable to retain or release the paper. Connected to the paper holding clip is a trigger on the elongated handle to open the paper holding clip, thereby releasing the paper. To utilize the present invention, a user opens the jaws of the paper holding clip. The jaws are clamped down onto the paper. A user touches the tacky side of the paper to the pest. thereby adhering the pest. Utilizing the trigger and opening the paper holding clip, the paper having the adhered pest is dropped harmlessly into the trash.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2012Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Rising Universe, LLCInventor: Louis Morano
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Patent number: 8438687Abstract: A system for cleaning a hot food preparation includes a cleaning tool including a handle and a detachable base. The handle and detachable base comprise a polymeric material, where the melting point of the polymeric material in the handle is lower than the melting point of the polymeric material in the base. The system includes a scrubbing pad support member that is configured to engage and secure a scrubbing pad and connect the scrubbing pad to a handle or a base of a cleaning tool. The handle of the tool is constructed to be reused numerous times whereas the detachable accessories, e.g., the scrubbing pad support member and/or a scrubbing pad, are disposable. A method of molding the scrubbing pad support member is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2007Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties CompanyInventors: Eric R. Cybulski, Arthur V. Lang, Jacob J. Orak, Adriana Paiva, Lowell C. Zeller
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Patent number: 8438688Abstract: A hand held scraper tool adapted to remove debris from a surface. The scrapper tool includes a body, handle and a plurality of abraders. In one embodiment, the abraders may be configured as a highly flexible cantilevered structure. In another embodiment, the abraders may be configured as a brush that creates a water impermeable barrier.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: MIW Associates, LLCInventors: Marvin Weinberger, Tucker J. Marion
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Patent number: 8438689Abstract: A broom having a head part to which a first and a second plurality of bristles are coupled. The second plurality of bristles preferably comprising a hooking member positioned at an end of the bristle opposite the head part, wherein the hooking member preferably forms a cap on the second end of the body. Alternatively, a bristle device having a plurality of bristles each with a hooking member at one end, wherein the bristle device is releasably couplable to bristles or a head part of a broom. In operation, as the plurality of bristles with hooking members sweep over the debris or material to be swept along a surface, the bristle with hooking members catch, hook or hold onto the debris being swept. The row of bristles with hooking members preferably form a hooking barrier that traps the material being swept making sweeping very easy and effective.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Noble Ideas II, Inc.Inventor: Edward J. Noble
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Patent number: 8438690Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide an elongate cleaning element holder which contributes to a smoother cleaning operation, for a cleaning tool in which a cleaning element for cleaning an object to be cleaned is attached to the cleaning element holder. The representative cleaning element holder 120 includes a holding element 132 to be inserted into an insert region of the cleaning element. The holding element 132 has an inclined part 136 wherein a height of the inclined part 136 in a direction transverse to an extending direction of the holding element 132 gradually increases toward the connection.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Uni-Charm CorporationInventors: Yoshinori Tanaka, Masumi Fukuzawa, Masaho Hayashi, Jun Uragami
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Patent number: 8438691Abstract: A grill cleaning assembly for cleaning the bottom side of a grill includes an arm that has a first end and a second end. A blade has an attached end, a free end, a top side, a bottom side, a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge. The blade has a trapezoidal cross-section taken perpendicular to a line which extends through the attached and free ends such that the top side has a lesser width extending between the first and second lateral edges than the bottom side. Each of the first and second lateral edges slopes from a top end to a bottom end of the trapezoidal shape. The free end is configured to be inserted between a pair of bars of a grill and such that either the first or second lateral edges abuts and is moved across a lower side of the bars.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: William C. Kingdon
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Patent number: 8438692Abstract: The invention relates to a wiper blade (1) that comprises a bearing structure (20) in which a flexible vertebra (23) is longitudinally inserted and on the sides of which are formed openings (25a, 25b, 26a, 26b, 27a, 27b) exposing the side edges (23a) of the vertebra (23), as well as a connector (50) that is fitted substantially transversally onto the bearing structure (20) at the level of the openings (25a, 25b, 26a, 26b) and that is blocked in terms of movement in the fitting direction thereof by the portions of the side edges (23a) protruding from said openings (25a, 25b, 26a, 26b). The invention is characterized in that the connector (50) includes at least one deformation (70a) extending inside a notch (71a) formed in the vertebra (23) at a portion of a side edge (23a) and accessible via an opening (27a).Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2008Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Valeo Systèmes d'EssuyageInventor: Nicolas Ollier
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Patent number: 8438693Abstract: A vacuum cleaner includes a cleaner body capable of standing and inclining, an electric blower accommodated in the cleaner body, a floor nozzle capable of cleaning a surface while the cleaner body inclines, a mode detector detecting whether the cleaner body stands or inclines, and a controller controlling a power supplied to the electric blower. The controller is operable to supply a first power the electric blower if the mode detector detects that the cleaner body inclines, and to supply a second power lower than the first power to the electric blower if the mode detector detects that the cleaner body stands. This vacuum cleaner prevents the electric blower from overheating.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2007Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventor: Tosiaki Fujiwara
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Patent number: 8438694Abstract: A cleaning apparatus including a main body, a dust collection unit detachably installed on the main body and provided with a plurality of inlets, through which foreign substances are introduced into the dust collection unit, and a connection hole, to which an external instrument is connected, a shutter to open and close one inlet, and a cap to open and close the connection hole. The shutter opens and closes the inlet in cooperation with one of whether or not the dust collection unit is attached to or detached from the main body and whether or not the connection hole is opened or closed.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Dong Won Kim, Hwi Chan Jang, Jae Man Joo, Jun Pyo Hong, Jun Hwa Lee, Woo Ram Chung, Jae Young Jung, Kyung Hwan Yoo, Jang Youn Ko, Jeong Gon Song, Sam Jong Jeung
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Patent number: 8438695Abstract: An autonomous coverage robot detection system includes an emitter configured to emit a directed beam, a detector configured to detect the directed beam and a controller configured to direct the robot in response to a signal detected by the detector. In some examples, the detection system detects a stasis condition of the robot. In some examples, the detection system detects a wall and can follow the wall in response to the detected signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: iRobot CorporationInventors: Duane L. Gilbert, Jr., Marcus R. Williams, Andrea M. Okerholm, Elaine H. Kristant, Sheila A. Longo, Daniel E. Kee, Marc D. Strauss
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Patent number: 8438696Abstract: A steam surface cleaner operable to clean a surface, and the steam surface cleaner includes a supply tank configured to retain a cleaning fluid, a base including a dispensing nozzle in fluid communication with the supply tank to dispense the cleaning fluid from the supply tank and onto the surface, a handle configured to move the base along the surface, a heater operable to heat the cleaning fluid to generate steam such that the cleaning fluid dispensed from the dispensing nozzle includes steam, and a cleaning pad coupled to the base for movement with the base and such that the cleaning pad is configured to directly contact the surface. The cleaning pad includes an aperture that allows the cleaning fluid to flow from the dispensing nozzle, through the aperture, and onto the surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2012Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology LimitedInventor: Christopher M. Charlton
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Patent number: 8438697Abstract: A vacuum cleaner is provided. A vacuum cleaner includes a main body with a suction motor, a dust collecting unit, a main body frame, a locking member, a detaching button, and a pushing member. A suction port assembly is connected to the main body and an extension pipe assembly is detachably attached to the main body; each fluidly connects selectively with the dust collecting unit. The locking member selectively locks the extension pipe assembly to the main body frame, the detaching button selectively detaches the locking member from the extension pipe assembly, and the pushing member moves the extension pipe assembly according to the locking member being detached from the extension pipe assembly.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2009Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: See-hyun Kim, Byung-jo Lee, Tae-gwang Kim
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Patent number: 8438698Abstract: A robot cleaner including a suction hole to suction dust, a blower to generate a suction force to suction the dust, a dust collector to receive the dust suctioned by said suction force through the suction hole, and a rotating brush to sweep up and collect the dust into the dust collector through the suction hole by a drive force of the rotating brush. The dust collector includes a backflow preventing member movable between an open position and a closed position. The backflow preventing member is pivotably rotatable in an air suction direction by the suction force of the blower to the open position and is adapted to return to the closed position to prevent the dust in the dust collector from being discharged through the suction hole upon stoppage of the blower.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2011Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Dong Won Kim, Hoon Wee, Jun Pyo Hong, Yong Tae Kim, Woo Ram Chung
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Patent number: 8438699Abstract: An upright surface treating appliance includes a main body having a user operable handle, and a support assembly for allowing the appliance to be rolled along a surface using the handle. The support assembly includes a yoke and a pair of wheels rotatably connected to the yoke, the yoke being shaped so that a section of the yoke lies between the rims of the wheels. A surface treating head is connected to the yoke. The main body is pivotably connected to the yoke for movement about a pivot axis passing between the wheels, and so that a part of the main body is located between the rims of the wheels. As the main body is pivoted about said axis from an upright position to a reclined position, the spacing between said section of the yoke and said part of the main body increases, and so a shield is provided for covering the gap so formed between said section of the yoke and said part of the main body to prevent dirt and dust from passing into the support assembly through the gap.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2010Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Dyson Technology LimitedInventors: James Dyson, Peter David Gammack, Stephen Benjamin Courtney, Michael Anthony Saunders
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Patent number: 8438700Abstract: The present disclosure provides a home cleaning appliance including a housing having a nozzle, which includes a main suction opening. An airstream suction source is mounted to the housing and includes a suction airstream inlet and a suction airstream outlet. A cyclone main body is mounted to the housing and communicates with the nozzle main suction opening. The cyclone main body includes a first stage separator and a plurality of second stage separators. A dirt cup is connected to the cyclone main body for collecting dust particles separated by the first stage separator and the plurality of second stage separators. An air manifold is mounted to the first stage separator for fluidly connecting the first stage separator to the plurality of second stage separators.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2006Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology LimitedInventors: Sergey V. Makarov, Raymond P. Kawolics
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Patent number: 8438701Abstract: A furniture glide is provided that is mountable on the terminal end of a furniture leg having an outer surface. The furniture glide includes a cup having an outer surface and an inner surface defining a cavity for receiving the furniture leg. Matted material is molded into the outer surface of the cup.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2012Date of Patent: May 14, 2013Inventor: Richard D. Bushey