Patents Issued in February 11, 2014
  • Bathing device, systems and methods
    Patent number: 8646120
    Abstract: Systems and methods provide improved bathing or soaking mechanisms. A vessel may be provided with a plurality of horizontal support surfaces disposed in a cavity and a plurality of separate drain paths. A lid is adapted to span the cavity and be received in the top of the vessel. The lid may be a two-piece hinged lid, which may be actuated from a closed position to an open position and back again. The lid is provided with one or more drain holes which may cooperate with one of the plurality of drain paths when the lid is in the closed position. The vessel and lid combination may be installed through a floor, beneath a conventional shower stall, to enable showering with such stall without substantial contamination to the vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: In Reserve LLC
    Inventor: Robert A. Schueler
  • Steam and sauna shower panel
    Patent number: 8646121
    Abstract: An apparatus for converting a normal shower room into a steam and sauna facility. The apparatus comprises a vertical panel, a rain shower, a hand held massage means, a back and foot massage means, a seat with seat massage means, a steam and hot air generating means. The apparatus also includes an electronic device incorporating radio, CD player Hook Up, Telephone, Video features and buttons for controlling steam, heat, massage means, Audio and Video means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Huan Thanh Nguyen
  • Spa tub apparatus and system using air jet
    Patent number: 8646122
    Abstract: A pedicure spa tub sanitary apparatus and system includes a disposable spa tub basin liner and a disposable gas jet member that includes a quick-connect coupling for easy assembly and removal after each use. The spa tub basin liner is made from plastic and conforms to the shape of the spa tub. The disposable gas jet member is also preferably made from plastic or other rigid material and cooperates with a valved gas coupling member secured in the spa basin wall to provide a safe and sanitary air jetting function when the spa tub basin is filled with water, thereby reducing the risk of spreading infectious disease. During use, the disposable gas jet member may be disposed within a wall trough of the spa tub to protect the disposable gas jet member and quick-connect coupling from accidental breakage and/or disconnection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Huy That Anh Ton
  • Power actuated toilet seat device
    Patent number: 8646123
    Abstract: The power actuated toilet seat device provides a pair of leg assemblies positioned on opposites sides of a toilet bowl, an expansion cylinder disposed longitudinally on each hind leg, a receiver/activator disposed downwardly in each expansion cylinder, an expansion lift arm disposed upwardly on each expansion cylinder, a follower disposed perpendicularly inward atop each expansion lift arm, a seat having a front spaced apart from a rear, and two spaced apart sides, a slot disposed laterally within each seat side, each slot in receipt of one of the followers of one of each of the expansion lift arms, a hinge disposed downwardly and at the front of the seat, the hinge selectively affixed forwardly to an existing bowl of an existing toilet, a control means configured to control lifting and pivoting of the seat, the control means in communication with each receiver/activator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventors: Denis Potvin, Diane Potvin
  • Transport apparatus
    Patent number: 8646124
    Abstract: A transport apparatus includes a movable base, a sling, and a support frame mounted to the base. The frame extends over the base and is configured to move from a position spaced above the base at a first height wherein the frame may be extended over and proximate a support surface for engaging the sling when placed on the surface to another position spaced at a height greater than the first height after engagement with the sling. The sling is adapted to be engaged by the frame, which provides lateral support to the sling, wherein when the frame and sling are raised to the greater height the sling is raised above the surface so that a person supported on the sling may be lifted off the surface with the sling and the frame and supported in a stabilized sitting position so that the person can moved away from the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Martin W. Stryker, Jeffrey L. Lewandowski, Jason James Wroblewski
  • Transport apparatus
    Patent number: 8646125
    Abstract: A transport apparatus includes a base, a sling, a support frame mounted to the base. The support frame extends over the base and is configured to move from a first position spaced above the base at a first height wherein the support frame may be extended over and proximate a support surface for engaging the sling when placed on the support surface to a second position spaced above a second height greater than the first height once engaged with the sling wherein when the support frame and the sling are raised to the second position the sling is raised above the support surface so that a person supported on the sling may be lifted off the support surface with the sling and moved away from the support surface by the base. Further, the sling may be rotatably mounted to the support frame to facilitate reorientation of the person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Stryker Corporation
    Inventors: Martin W. Stryker, Jeffrey L. Lewandowski, Jason James Wroblewski
  • Infant bed
    Patent number: 8646126
    Abstract: One aspect of the present invention relates to an infant bed. The infant bed includes a chassis. A carriage moves relative to the chassis and includes a mattress support upon which a mattress can rest. A motorized control assembly enables a user to controllably move the carriage relative to the chassis. In one embodiment, the carriage includes a pair of end panels and a rear panel extending vertically upward from the mattress support. A front panel may be slidably mounted to the chassis to thereby contain the infant in the infant bed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Starwove Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Paul E. Carta
  • Crib
    Patent number: 8646127
    Abstract: A crib is provided that includes a mattress support portion and a vertical member. The vertical member includes an upper end that extends above the mattress support portion and a lower end that extends below the mattress support portion. The crib further includes a caster that is operatively connected to the lower end of the vertical member, and a first reinforcing member that is operatively connected to the mattress support portion and the caster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Foundations Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan L. Lytle
  • Crib bumper system
    Patent number: 8646128
    Abstract: A crib bumper is provided for a crib that includes a plurality of spaced support elements and four corner posts. The bumper includes at least one panel that is configured to at least seat against the inner surfaces of the spaced support elements and a corner post attachment member that is coupled to the panel. The corner post attachment member defines a pocket that receives one corner post and permits the corner post attachment member to surround and be securely attached to the one corner post. The corner post attachment member has free edges that are attached to one another by means of a first fastener and includes a means for adjusting and changing at least one dimension of the corner post attachment member to provide a secure attachment of the corner post attachment member to the corner post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Triboro Quilt Manufacturing Corp.
    Inventors: Joel Kaplan, Jonathan Daugherty, Deborah Ashworth, Richard White
  • Rocking bed
    Patent number: 8646129
    Abstract: A rocking bed includes a frame unit, a transmission unit connected with the frame unit to swing and rock the frame unit reciprocally, and a driving unit connected with the transmission unit to drive the transmission unit. Thus, the transmission unit is driven by the driving unit to drive the frame unit so that the frame unit is rocked reciprocally without needing a manual work.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Owen Chen
  • Mattress retention bracket assembly and method
    Patent number: 8646130
    Abstract: A body support assembly includes a body support having a head portion, a middle portion, and a foot portion. The body support assembly also includes a foundation underlying and supporting the body support proximate an edge of the body support at one of the head and foot portions, and a bracket coupled to the foundation and slideable between first and second positions at different distances with respect to the edge of the body support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Tempur-Pedic Management, LLC
    Inventors: Mohamed F. Alzoubi, Stephen Switzer
  • Variable height siderail
    Patent number: 8646131
    Abstract: A siderail comprises a rail having a lower edge extending longitudinally from a head end to a foot end, and a longitudinally outer link comprising a head side outer link segment and a foot side outer link segment. Each segment is connected to the rail at a joint OR and connected to a host frame at a joint OF. The siderail also includes an inner link longitudinally intermediate the outer link segments and connected to the rail at a joint IR and to the host frame at a joint IF. The head side outer link segment extends longitudinally from approximately the head end of the rail lower edge toward the inner link without longitudinally overlapping the inner link. The foot side outer link segment extends longitudinally from approximately the foot end of the rail lower edge toward the inner link without longitudinally overlapping the inner link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard H. Heimbrock, Brian T. Wiggins
  • Bed with linen changing means
    Patent number: 8646132
    Abstract: A bed with linen changing means comprises features that allow the mattress linen to be changed without requiring an occupant to leave the bed. The bed frame provides a matrix of parallel slats which support the occupant while the mattress is lowered and extended for linen changing. The mattress comprises a plurality of parallel horizontal mattress sections spaced apart allowing corresponding insertion between the slats until said slats are recessed within the mattress and a user is able to lie comfortably upon raised portions of the mattress. The mattress is supported by a mobile frame apparatus being vertically adjustable via a manually-operated crank and gear assembly such that a caretaker may lower the mattress while the bed occupant rests upon the slats, providing easy access to the mattress for purposes of changing bed linens. The mattress is then raised back into place to support the occupant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Vu L. U. Nguyen
  • Duvet cover
    Patent number: 8646133
    Abstract: A duvet cover (10) including an envelope portion (20) substantially closable for enveloping a duvet to shield the duvet from soiling. The envelope portion (120) is removable from the duvet for laundering. The duvet cover further includes a sheet portion (30) attachable to the envelope portion (20) to underlie the envelope portion (20) to shield the underside (21) of the envelope portion (20) from soiling. The sheet portion (30) is removable from the envelope portion (20) for laundering. There is also provided a method of minimizing duvet cover laundering requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Helen Jane Tepper
  • Pillow with gusset of open cell construction
    Patent number: 8646134
    Abstract: A pillow is provided herein which includes a cover having opposing first and second panels. A gusset perimetrically bounds, and joins, the first and second panels. The gusset is formed of an open cell construction. Compliant fill material is disposed within the cover. Advantageously, with the subject invention, a pillow is provided allowing for lateral ventilation between opposing panels. This permits a cooling effect while a user is resting or sleeping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Bedgear, LLC
    Inventor: Eugene Alletto, Jr.
  • Neck support device
    Patent number: 8646135
    Abstract: A neck support device comprises a flat, portable device comprised of a central malleable but supportive inner core or endoskeleton covered by a comfortable padded shell. The device shapes into a structure, supporting a user's head by translating the weight of the user' head to the user's shoulder, bypassing the neck, thus allowing relaxation of the supportive structures of the neck. The neck support device comprises a flexible and bendable inner core and an outer sheath material. Portions of the device may be bent into a support position by the user to support the user's head. The device may be bent into a substantially flat configuration for storage. The device may comprise contoured padding located for support or comfort and slip-resistant materials or surfaces. The device may translate the weight of the user's head from a head portion to a shoulder portion via a neck portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Ravi Shamaiengar
  • Assemblies, systems, and related methods employing interlocking components to provide at least a portion of an encasement, particularly for bedding and seating applications
    Patent number: 8646136
    Abstract: Encasement assemblies, systems, and related methods employing interlocking support components to provide at least a portion of an encasement for bedding or seating are disclosed. The assembly may include a base having flip-up support member(s). The base may include elongated channel(s) disposed therein having a first geometry and a portion of the elongated channel(s) may also be disposed in the flip-up support member(s). The assembly may also include elongated support member(s) each having a first side and a second side. The first side may contain a rail and the second side may contain a second rail. Each rail and second rail may be interlocked with the elongated channel(s), such that the elongated support member(s) are attached to the base and provide at least a portion of the encasement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Nomaco Inc.
    Inventors: Julian Thomas Young, Timothy Michael Witherell, Christopher Dean Page
  • Bottle opening device for cutting the capsule covering the neck of the bottle
    Patent number: 8646137
    Abstract: Bottle opening device, particularly for cutting the capsule covering the stopper of a bottle, comprising a shaft provided with a threaded portion and, above, with a widened portion that has a hole in it. The widened portion comprises two plates which are provided internally with mutually aligned openings for the transversal insertion of a stopper. The plates are spaced apart so as to define a space for accommodating a supporting body which is provided with at least one cutting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Ghidini Cipriano S.r.l.
    Inventor: Diego Andina
  • Utility bar
    Patent number: 8646138
    Abstract: A utility bar includes a shank portion for providing a grip, the shank portion including a first end and a second end, a substantially arch-shaped head portion extending from the first end of the shank portion, and a pry bar portion extending from the second end of the shank portion. Each of the head portion and the pry bar portion define a free end of the utility bar. The utility bar also includes a first facet including the free end of the head portion, a second facet extending from the first facet at an angle with respect to the first facet and positioned between the free end of the head portion and the shank portion, and a first fulcrum edge between the first and second facets for providing a first pivot point about which the utility bar is pivoted to provide leverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation
    Inventors: Joel Allen, Mark R. Martinez, Timothy Albrecht
  • Systems, devices, and/or methods for washing and drying a product
    Patent number: 8646139
    Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, machine, and/or device adapted for washing and drying a product via a continuous forward flow of product and a reverse flow of aqueous content. Certain exemplary embodiments can provide an auger, a rotating paddle wheel, a perforated spiral drum, a perforated cylindrical drum, and/or a hydraulic ram press.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Eastern Bioplastics, LLC
    Inventors: Cecil E. Meyerhoeffer, Jr., Aaron Showalter
  • Paper ramp
    Patent number: 8646140
    Abstract: A paper ramp for use in unloading a wheeled or castered product from a pallet or shipping base is provided. The ramp is wedge shaped and comprises a folded bottom member affixed to a pre-formed top member having integrally formed guide rails. The bottom member has closure flaps that fold together in interlocking fashion inside the wedged shaped ramp to support and stabilize the load bearing top surface of the ramp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Sonoco Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Jacob Branyon
  • Lawn sweeper assembly with adjustable brush assembly and hopper assembly and method of use thereof
    Patent number: 8646141
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a lawn sweeper designed to collect debris, such as grass clippings and leaves, from a surface such as a lawn, and more particularly to a lawn sweeper with an adjustable brush assembly and characteristics associated with improved storage of such a device. A user may adjust the brush assembly with respect to the housing without needing to move the wheels. The hopper assembly may include a panel movable to be placed in at least two orientations, thereby allowing a user to change the volume within which the hopper assembly may collect debris. Methods are also disclosed for adjusting the brush assembly and for storing a lawn sweeper unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Agri-Fab, Inc.
    Inventors: John Johnson, Evan T. Ward, Miroslav Vuckovic
  • Got your back applicator systems
    Patent number: 8646142
    Abstract: A multi-fluid applicator utensil comprising a head assembly having a head section; a face surface; a back surface; and a receiver and a handle assembly having a shank and a gripper. The head assembly is pivotally mounted on the handle assembly with the shank received by the receiver located in the head section. The head assembly comprises a socket. The handle assembly comprises a ball pivotable in the socket. The shank is telescopic providing an extended length of about twelve inches and a retracted length of about 8½ inches. The gripper provides a grippable surface by which a user-applier is able to manipulate the multi-fluid applicator utensil. The multi-fluid applicator utensil comprises injection-molded thermoplastic and is useable by the user-applier to surface-apply the oil, lotion and cream to the bodily skin surface in hard-to-reach locations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventors: Frank Ferrara, Lyn Ferrara
  • Power transmission device and power transmission method
    Patent number: 8646143
    Abstract: The invention presents a power transmission device comprising a cable, and a duct at least partially surrounding the cable, a reel, into which the cable with its duct can be reeled, a guide for feeding the cable onto and/or off the reel, and a crank in connection with the head end of the cable for rotating the cable. The power transmission device is mainly characterized in that the crank is a hydraulic crank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Picote Oy Ltd
    Inventor: Mika Lokkinen
  • Cleaning sheet
    Patent number: 8646144
    Abstract: A cleaning sheet (1) includes at least one continuous-filament aggregate (10) formed by aggregating and orienting a multitude of continuous filaments (11) substantially in one orientation direction. The continuous filaments (11) are joined by a single first joining line (12) extending continuously in a direction orthogonal to the orientation direction of the continuous filaments (11) and are joined by a plurality of second joining lines (13) extending in the orientation direction. In this way, the continuous filaments (11) in the continuous-filament aggregate (10) are kept in an aggregated state. Preferably, the second joining lines (13) are connected to the first joining line (12).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Kao Corporation
    Inventors: Minoru Wada, Hiroshi Otsuka
  • Suction hose wrap for a surface cleaning apparatus
    Patent number: 8646146
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus comprises an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet and a flexible suction hose. The surface cleaning apparatus may comprise a main body comprising a suction motor provided in the air flow path. A cyclone bin assembly may be provided on the main body. The surface cleaning apparatus may comprise a suction hose wrap. The suction hose wrap having an accessory tool holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: G.B.D. Corp.
    Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad
  • Surface cleaning apparatus
    Patent number: 8646147
    Abstract: Various uses and constructions for an open sided nozzle for a surface cleaning apparatus are provided. Alternate constructions for a surface cleaning head are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: G.B.D. Corp.
    Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad
  • Cleaning appliance
    Patent number: 8646148
    Abstract: A cleaning appliance of the canister type includes separating apparatus for separating dirt from a dirt-bearing fluid flow, a floor engaging rolling assembly including a device for drawing the fluid flow through the separating apparatus, a duct for conveying the fluid flow from the separating apparatus to the rolling assembly, and a mechanism for pivoting the separating apparatus relative to the duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Dyson Technology Limited
    Inventors: David Robert Sunderland, Stuart Lloyd Genn, Peter David Gammack
  • Filter housing construction for a surface cleaning apparatus
    Patent number: 8646149
    Abstract: A surface cleaning apparatus comprises an air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to a clean air outlet, an air treatment member and a suction motor. The surface cleaning apparatus comprises a main body comprising a front end and a rear end. A filter compartment may be provided in the main body and may comprise an open portion. A pair of spaced apart wheels may have an axis of rotation and the axis of rotation may extend through the filter compartment. A seal plate may be used to sealingly close the open portion. The seal plate may be positioned between one of the wheels and the filter compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: G.B.D. Corp.
    Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad
  • Handle lock structure for working machine
    Patent number: 8646150
    Abstract: Handle lock structure includes: left and right lock members provided on a body of a working machine for movement into engagement with engaging portions of left and right handle sections of a handle as the handle is pivotally moved in a deploying direction from a stored position toward a deployed position, thereby locking the handle sections in the deployed position; and a lock cancellation lever for moving the left and right lock members out of the engagement with the engaging portions to compulsorily cancel the locking, by the left and right lock members, of the left and right handle sections in the deployed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Kaku Okabe
  • Ligature-resistant vertical grab bar
    Patent number: 8646151
    Abstract: A ligature-resistant grab bar for mounting on a surface, having an elongated handgrip having a generally centrally disposed spine extending from the first end of the handgrip to the second end of the handgrip and which is configured and dimensioned to extend outwardly from the surface, when mounted. The spine lying flush against the surface and two arms extending outwardly from the spine along its entire length, each having an outer surface which collectively define the handgrip outer surface. The arms each having an outer free end portion which is configured and dimensioned to be grasped by a user. End caps on each of the ends of the handgrip, at least one of the end caps having an outwardly flared end wall having a first edge joined to the outer surface of the handgrip and a second edge configured and dimensioned to lie flush against the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventors: Laurence D. Kopp, Christopher L. Kopp
  • Transversely movable hinge and folding device utilizing the same
    Patent number: 8646152
    Abstract: A transversely movable hinge is mounted between a base and a cover of a folding device and has a moving assembly. The moving assembly is connected to an expansion device via a linking rod. Therefore, when the folding device is opened, the expansion device is driven to extend and is convenient for users. When the folding device is closed, the expansion device is driven to retract for saving space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Shin Zu Shing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Zheng-Cheng Lin, Ching-Hsiang Hsu
  • Hinge mechanism, and monitor opening and closing mechanism
    Patent number: 8646153
    Abstract: A plate spring 40 is subjected to folding at a fold portion 41 to form integrally a plate spring portion 42 and a stress relief portion 43m and a distal end of a rotary shaft 30 is secured to a caulking hole of the stress relief portion 43 by caulking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Tetsuro Nagami
  • Adjustable door stop system
    Patent number: 8646154
    Abstract: An adjustable door stop system. The system includes a hinge pin having an axis about which the hinge leaves rotate, a top end, and an opposed bottom end. In one embodiment, a hinge pin cap has a first portion extending radially from the top end of the hinge pin and a second cylindrical portion extending from the first portion parallel to the access of the hinge pin. A control cap has an opening to receive the hinge pin therethrough, the control cap having a radially extending first portion and a cylindrical second portion substantially parallel to the axis of the hinge pin. A mechanism is provided to prevent movement of the hinge pin cap with respect to the control cap including a plurality of teeth on the control cap second cylindrical portion and a plurality of teeth of the control cap cylindrical portion which mate with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: B. Jack Smith
  • Clips for fastening accessories to vehicle panels
    Patent number: 8646155
    Abstract: A clip for fastening accessories to vehicle panels includes a rectangular reinforcement case which is formed by the end contact of its opposite mid parts, by means of the fitted-together join of a single finger per side of each mid part, by means of a shape approximately of a double fold in the form of a zig-zag against the edge of the opposite part, which extends in parallel to the walls of the case and in the interior of the case. The remainder of this opposite part has a symmetrical finger with a similar arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventor: Oscar Ribes Marti
  • Vacuum press fit zipper assembly
    Patent number: 8646156
    Abstract: A vacuum press fit zipper assembly designed for watersports apparel and gear and other water related applications. Overmolding construction forms an effective seal around the entire perimeter of the fastener assembly, and a vacuum fit is created between the two mating portions of the zipper assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Subzipper, Inc.
    Inventor: Kent Harrison Brightman
  • Hook and connector device
    Patent number: 8646157
    Abstract: A hook-connector includes a first hook part and a second hook part. Each hook part includes a first plate and a second plate. The plates have a cord opening defined there-through. The hook-connector further includes a hub disposed between the first and second plates which hold the plates in essentially parallel, spaced apart relationship. The hook-connector further includes a hook member attached to a first end of at least one of the first or second plates. The hook member includes a hook element defining a hook opening, and the hook opening is sized to receive the hub of a corresponding hook part. The hook-connector further includes a means for ensuring a positive and releasable engagement of each hook element about the hub of the corresponding hook part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventors: Daniel S. Hayes, Edwin J. Fehringer, Daniel J. Fehringer
  • Multi-pivot latch assemblies
    Patent number: 8646158
    Abstract: Latch assemblies for releasably engaging anchor members and other attachment points in vehicles are disclosed herein. A latch assembly configured in accordance with one embodiment of the disclosure includes a latch and an ejector movably coupled to a frame. In some embodiments, a biasing member urges the ejector toward a position that holds the latch in a first or open position prior to attachment to an anchor member. When the anchor member presses against the ejector, the biasing member causes the ejector to rotate latch from the first or open position to a second position about a first pivot point, and then from the second position to a third or fully closed position about a second pivot point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: AmSafe Commercial Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Fred Buckingham, Mark E. Main
  • Device and method for assembling retainer and cotter
    Patent number: 8646159
    Abstract: A large-diameter-side end surface (104a) of a cotter (104) can be supported by a cotter holder (32) from below through inserting a shaft member (102) along an inner periphery of the cotter (104) from above the cotter (104). In this state, a protrusion (104b) of the cotter (104) and an annular groove (102a) of the shaft member (102) are fitted to each other, and the cotter (104) and a retainer (103) are taper-fitted to each other. Consequently, the cotter is prevented from being unstable, and hence it is possible to assemble the retainer (103) and the cotter (104) to the shaft member (102) with good accuracy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Sanyo Machine Works, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Takagi, Seiji Maeda
  • Connectors removal pliers
    Patent number: 8646160
    Abstract: A pair of connector removal pliers includes a first arm and a second arm which is pivotably connected to the first arm by a pin. A positioning member and a pressing member are respectively connected to the first and second arms. The positioning member has a rough surface and the pressing member has a protrusion extending therefrom which extends toward the positioning member. By operating two handles of the first and second arms to position one of two connectors between the positioning member and the pressing member, the technician can easily pull the other connector to separate the two connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Pi-Liang Wu
  • Clamping device and method for assembly of stringer couplings
    Patent number: 8646161
    Abstract: A clamping device is provided for an assembly of a stringer coupling in a region of a lateral butt joint between a first and a second fuselage section of an aircraft for coaxially connecting a respective first and second stringer of the first and the second fuselage sections, the stringer coupling intersecting a frame element profile in the region of the lateral butt joint. A supporting yoke is configured to bridge the frame element profile in an arc-shaped manner and includes a first end foot supported by the stringer coupling on the first side of the frame element profile and a second end foot supported by the stringer coupling on the second side of the frame element profile. The supporting yoke includes a middle tensioning hook configured to interact with the frame element profile. The first and the second end feet are tensionable against the stringer coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Airbus Operations GmbH
    Inventors: Rolf Bense, Axel Sauermann, Eugen Gorr
  • Method of monitoring fastening loading
    Patent number: 8646162
    Abstract: A retrofit system for providing a load indicator on a foundation bolt. The system includes a fastener having a fastener head, gauge length and central fastener bore in the gauge length and head. A datum rod is anchored in the central bore with a free datum rod being moveable longitudinally relative to the fastener head during elongation of the fastener gauge length. An internally threaded fastener portion below the central fastener bore is configured to thread over a foundation bolt. A compression sleeve positioned over the foundation bolt is configured to receive the load indicating fastener therein and to bear the compressive forces of the fastening. Elongation of the gauge length as the fastener is tightened onto the stud is manifest as displacement of the datum rod end, which displacement is measured to provide an indication of fastener loading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: Ronald C. Clarke
  • Method of forming a golf club head with improved aerodynamic characteristics
    Patent number: 8646163
    Abstract: Methods of forming a golf club head having improved aerodynamic characteristics are disclosed herein. A preferred method is the largest tangent circle method, which utilizes a Cartesian coordinate system. The method results in identification of the highest point of the crown surface located within a crown apex zone, and this location aids in the design of improved aerodynamic properties of the golf club head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Callaway Golf Company
    Inventors: D. Clayton Evans, Evan D. Gibbs, Matthew T. Cackett, Steven M. Ehlers
  • Automated assembly device to tolerate blade variation
    Patent number: 8646164
    Abstract: An automated device facilitates the assembly a surgical instrument that includes a knife with a high aspect ratio. The automated device includes a fixture for restraining a subassembly of the surgical instrument that includes the knife. A blade grip on the device is movable relative to the fixture, and is configured to urge the knife into a restrained position in the subassembly suitable for the subsequent assembly of an additional instrument component. A grip actuator is provided to move the blade grip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Covidien LP
    Inventors: James S. Cunningham, James J. Crawford, Paul Guerra
  • Method of securing pipe elements end to end
    Patent number: 8646165
    Abstract: A method of joining pipe elements in end to end relation using mechanical pipe couplings. The couplings have a plurality of segments attached end to end surrounding a central space. The segments have arcuate surfaces adapted to interface with the outer surfaces of the pipe elements. The method includes inserting end portions of the pipe elements into the central space and then drawing the coupling segments toward one another so as to engage the arcuate surfaces of the segments with the outer surfaces of the pipe elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Victaulic Company
    Inventors: John Gibb, Douglas R. Dole, Michael S. Pigott
  • Component assembly consisting of a fastener element and a sheet metal part and also a method for manufacturing such a component assembly
    Patent number: 8646166
    Abstract: A component assembly comprises a sheet metal and a fastener element. A flange has a larger diameter and a shaft of smaller diameter extends away from the flange and merges at its end remote from the flange into a cylindrical rivet section. The fastener element is used with sheet metals with thicknesses in the range of 3 mm and larger. With thin sheet metal parts the sheet metal has a smooth pierced cylindrical opening with a diameter corresponding to the diameter of the shaft. The cylindrical rivet section is reshaped to a rivet bead contacting the sheet metal underside. Medium thickness sheet metal parts have a stepped hole with the hole region of larger diameter receiving the rivet bead. For thick sheet metal parts the sheet metal has a conical pierced hole and the cylindrical rivet section is reshaped to a conical rivet bead wedged in the conically diverging hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Profil—Verbindungstechnik GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Jiri Babej, Richard Humpert, Christian Sowa, Michael Vieth
  • Method of actuating a wireless sensor of road construction equipment
    Patent number: 8646167
    Abstract: A method of actuating a wireless sensor of road construction equipment. A bracket is secured to the road construction equipment that has a magnet and is able to receive a wireless sensor. An actuator is disposed within the housing of the wireless sensor that reacts to the magnetic field created by the magnet such that when the wireless sensor is attached to the bracket the sensor is operable and when detached from the bracket no longer operates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Sauer-Danfoss Inc.
    Inventor: Jack Zeng
  • Method for manufacturing a magnetic write pole of a perpendicular magnetic write head using novel mask fabrication
    Patent number: 8646168
    Abstract: A method for manufacturing a magnetic write pole of a magnetic write head for perpendicular magnetic recording. A magnetic write pole material is deposited, followed by union milling hard mask, a polymer mask under-layer followed by a dielectric hard mask material, followed by a photoresist. The photoresist is patterned to define a write pole shape and the shape of the patterned photoresist is transferred onto the underlying dielectric hard mask by a novel reactive ion etching that is performed in a chemistry that includes one or more fluorine containing gases and He. The presence of He in the reactive ion etching tool helps to improve the profile of the patterned dielectric hard mask. In addition, RIE parameters such a gas ratio (e.g. CF4 to CHF3 gas ratio) and power ratio (e.g. source power to bias power) are adjusted to optimize the profile of the patterned dielectric mask.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: HGST Netherlands B.V.
    Inventors: Guomin Mao, Sue Siyang Zhang, Yi Zheng
  • Method of manufacturing liquid ejection head having protective layer containing a noble metal
    Patent number: 8646169
    Abstract: A simplified and less costly manufacture process of a print head can be effective in preventing the peeling-off between a substrate and a flow passage forming member. In the print head, a protective layer is formed between the flow passage forming member and a heat generating portion. The protective layer contains a noble metal. On a side of the flow passage forming member, the surface of the protective layer is made of an oxide of a noble metal, except in a portion corresponding to the heat generating portion, while in the portion corresponding to the heat generating portion on the flow passage forming member side, the surface thereof is made of the noble metal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yuzuru Ishida, Takahiro Matsui, Ichiro Saito
  • Device for producing photovoltaic modules
    Patent number: 8646170
    Abstract: An apparatus and a method for automatically joining components of photovoltaic elements are disclosed. The apparatus includes: a) at least two manufacturing lines and at least two assembly bridges for joining the substrates, films and glass panes, b) a stacking device for film feeding and a conveyor belt for feeding the glass panes, c) devices for centering and suctioning the films and the glass plates, d) devices for transporting and fixing the film transport frame and the glass transport frame e) devices for lowering the films and the glass plates from the respective transport frames, and f) devices for further transport.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Grenzebach Maschinenbau GmbH
    Inventor: Helmut Weigl