Patents Issued in March 31, 2015
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Patent number: 8991363Abstract: A machine includes a machine body and a dual fuel compression ignition engine attached to the machine body. A dual fuel system is operably coupled to supply the engine with liquid diesel fuel and natural gas fuel directly into respective cylinders of the engine. The fuel system includes an insulated tank for storing the natural gas fuel, a pressure sensor positioned to measure fluid pressure within the tank, and a pump for drawing the natural gas fuel from the tank. An electronic controller is in communication with the pressure sensor and has a cryogenic system diagnostics algorithm executable thereon that is configured to receive a pressure signal from the pressure sensor, detect a cryogenic system fault based on the signal, and generate a notification signal based on the fault.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Joshua W. Steffen, Dana R. Coldren, Alan R. Stockner
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Patent number: 8991364Abstract: An apparatus improves the efficiency and emissions of a combustion process by producing sufficient amounts of oxygen and ozone in the air flow to the combustion chamber to enable more complete and cleaner combustion of the fuel. An oxygen generator is used in conjunction with an ozone cell. A plurality of cell elements are disposed within an ozone cell housing that is placed in the air intake to a combustion chamber such as a diesel engine. The plurality of cell elements create an electrical plasma field that produces ozone. Oxygen from the oxygen generator mixes with the ozone in the ozone cell to enhance the effects of the ozone in combustion chamber.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Clack Technologies LLCInventor: David M. Clack
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Patent number: 8991365Abstract: An upstream side and a downstream side of a supercharger in the intake passage are connected through a bypass passage in which an ejector is provided. An outlet of a first blowby gas returning passage is connected to the bypass passage through the ejector. An outlet of a second blowby gas bypass passage is connected to the intake passage downstream of a throttle valve. An inlet of the first blowby gas returning passage and an inlet of the second blowby gas returning passage are placed adjacent to each other in a head cover. A check valve is provided in the first blowby gas returning passage.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Aisan Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hirokazu Konohara
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Patent number: 8991366Abstract: A dual path fresh air system, having a first air supply path, the first path supplies air to at least one first cylinder set; a second air supply path, the second path supplies air to at least on second cylinder set; a first exhaust gas recirculation inlet fluidly connected to the first path to introduce recirculated exhaust gas into the first path; a second exhaust gas recirculation inlet fluidly connected to the second path to introduce recirculated exhaust gas into the second path; a first valve member, which is arranged upstream of the first exhaust gas recirculation inlet in the first path, wherein the first valve member controls fluid flowing through a cross section of the first path; and a second valve member which is arranged upstream of the second exhaust gas recirculation inlet in the second path, for controlling fluid flowing through a cross section of the second path.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2009Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Mahle International GmbHInventors: Alfred Elsässer, Achim Gommel, Marco Warth
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Patent number: 8991367Abstract: The present invention makes it possible to accurately determine an EGR rate from an in-cylinder pressure. An EGR rate determination method for an internal combustion engine according to the present invention, a combustion period is calculated by using in-cylinder pressure data measured by an in-cylinder pressure sensor. An in-cylinder flame velocity is then calculated from the combustion period. Next, in accordance with prepared data indicative of the influence of an engine speed on the flame velocity, a portion of the flame velocity calculated from the combustion period that is affected by the engine speed is eliminated. Eventually, a current EGR rate is determined from the flame velocity from which the portion affected by the engine speed is eliminated.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2010Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takeshi Sano, Hiromichi Yasuda
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Patent number: 8991368Abstract: Devices, systems and methods for the preparation of an oxygenate compound or mixture of oxygenate compounds suitable for use in internal combustion engines are disclosed. An internal combustion engine system includes: a fuel system including an oxygenate compound synthesis device including a reactor including a catalyst, the oxygenate compound synthesis device being configured to convert at least a portion of a feedstock to an oxygenate compound or a mixture of oxygenate compounds; and an internal combustion engine configured to initiate combustion through compression or high energy discharge, the internal combustion engine including: a fuel injection system configured to provide fuel injection, and a cooling system configured to cool the internal combustion engine, the internal combustion engine being configured to heat the oxygenate compound synthesis device using heat from the cooling system of the internal combustion engine. Applications of the devices, systems and methods are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: David McCann
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Patent number: 8991369Abstract: A device for cooled recirculation of exhaust gas of an internal combustion engine charged with the aid of an exhaust gas turbocharger, the internal combustion engine having a fresh gas system and an exhaust gas system, which are connected to a two-stage exhaust gas cooler via an exhaust gas recirculation line. A device by way of which a sufficient amount of exhaust gas may be recirculated by simple means is provided. This is achieved in that exhaust gas recirculation line 8a, 8b is connected to an exhaust gas collecting line 7a, 7b of the exhaust gas system upstream from turbine 6 of exhaust gas turbocharger 5 in the direction of flow, an exhaust gas recirculation valve 9a, 9b being connected upstream from first stage 10a, 10b of the exhaust gas cooler in exhaust gas recirculation line 8a, 8b, and a nonreturn valve 11a, 11b is inserted into a continuation line 12a, 12b leading to the second stage of the exhaust gas cooler.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2009Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Deutz AktiengesellschaftInventor: Bernd Huelsmann
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Patent number: 8991370Abstract: An intake apparatus of an engine provided with a fuel supplying device for supplying fuel into an intake passage, includes: a guide body having multiple holes disposed in the intake passage located downstream from the fuel supplying device. The guide body has a stepped portion extending in a direction intersecting with a direction of a flow of intake air.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Toshihiko Yamamoto
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Patent number: 8991371Abstract: An ignition coil for an internal combustion engine includes a magnetically-permeable core extending along a core longitudinal axis, the core having a pair of end surfaces on axially-opposite ends thereof. The ignition coil also includes a primary winding disposed outward of the core, a secondary winding disposed outward of the primary winding, and a structure comprising magnetically-permeable steel laminations having a base and a pair of legs, the structure defining a magnetic return path. The core is disposed between the pair of legs such that the core longitudinal axis extends through the legs and the end surfaces face toward the legs and at least one of the end surfaces of the core is spaced apart from a respective one of the legs to define an air gap. The structure is over-molded with an over-molding material such that the over-molding material fills at least a portion of the air gap.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Albert A. Skinner, Harry O. Levers, Andre V. Scaff
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Patent number: 8991372Abstract: A portable device to compress a bow comprising a pulley system with a block and tackle and fixed pulleys which, by wiring, are connected to a set of fastening supports with fastening ends. The fastening ends fasten and pull the ends of the arms or limbs of a bow, under traction exerted by the block and tackle. The block and tackle has a drive portion and a brake controlling the traction and release of the cables connected to the fastening supports. Upon pulling the drive portion, the block and tackle produces the approach between the first and the second pulleys. This displacement between the pulleys acts on the cables which, through the fixed pulleys, cause the approach between the fastening supports. This displacement of the fastening supports overcomes the resistance of the bow and compresses it. Once the desired compressive level is reached, the brake or blockage is actuated.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Maria Alejandra Pirillo
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Patent number: 8991373Abstract: A toy projectile launcher assembly has the form of a crossbow. The crossbow only launches the safety projectiles that are provided. The launcher body has a handle at a first end and diverging support arms at an opposite second end. An adjustment mechanism is contained within the launcher body for selectively adjusting the length of the launcher body. The crossbow has diverging support arms. Bow arms are attached to the support arms. The bow arms pivot from retracted positions to extended positions when a projectile is loaded into the toy crossbow. The toy crossbow has elastic loops that can only engage specialized safety projectiles with side. Furthermore, the trigger mechanism can only engage the safety projectiles provided with the toy. Projectiles without a specific tab and keyhole cannot be loaded into the toy crossbow.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: KMA Concepts LimitedInventor: Peter Cummings
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Patent number: 8991374Abstract: A rifle bow assembly is disclosed herein. The rifle bow assembly includes: an outer barrel slide subassembly having an elongate cavity, the outer barrel slide subassembly configured to be attached to a bow assembly; a projectile barrel subassembly having a first end and a second end, the projectile barrel subassembly configured to be slidingly received within the elongate cavity of the outer barrel slide subassembly, and the projectile barrel subassembly having a helical projectile passageway extending in a lengthwise direction thereof; a magazine subassembly coupled to the second end of the projectile barrel subassembly, and having attachment means for securing a projectile magazine thereto; and a release subassembly coupled to an end portion of the magazine subassembly, the release subassembly including at least one string release mechanism for releasably engaging a bow string of the bow assembly. A rifle bow, which incorporates the rifle bow assembly, is also disclosed herein.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2014Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Howard Emery Conkel
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Patent number: 8991375Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a crossbow comprises a stock, a first limb, a first rotatable member, a second limb and a second rotatable member. A bowstring, a first cable and a second cable each extend between the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member. The crossbow defines a shooting axis. The first cable is offset from the shooting axis in a first direction and the second cable is offset from the shooting axis in a second direction different from the first direction.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: MCP IP, LLCInventor: Mathew A. McPherson
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Patent number: 8991376Abstract: In some embodiments, a connector attaches to an axle of an archery bow and comprises a cable terminal. The connector comprises a first body portion made from a first material and a second body portion made from a second material different from the first material. The first body portion defines an aperture therethrough arranged to engage the axle. The second body portion has a groove extending around at least a portion of its periphery, forming a teardrop shape. In some embodiments, the connector is configured to snap-fit onto an axle and be removable without tools.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: MCP IP, LLCInventor: Mathew A. McPherson
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Patent number: 8991377Abstract: A ball feeder assembly for a ball projecting machine includes a stand, an upper frame, a ball delivery element coupled to the frame, and a ball feeder member coupled to the ball delivery element. The assembly is configured for supporting a cylindrical ball bucket. The frame is movably coupled to the stand between at least a first position in which the frame is configured to support the bucket in a position with a top end at a higher elevation than a bottom end such that the longitudinal axis of the bucket is at angle within 0 and 80 degrees from a vertical plane, and a second position in which the frame is configured to support the bucket in a downward position with the bottom end at a higher elevation than the upper end such that the axis is within 5 to 90 degrees with respect to a horizontal plane.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Wilson Sporting Goods Co.Inventors: David A. Jorgens, Timothy D. Greene, Jose L. Lopez
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Patent number: 8991378Abstract: Exemplary embodiments of a gas pressure regulator comprise a regulator body, an adaptor sleeve, a retainer and an indexing ring. The regulator body includes a proximal portion, a distal portion, a ported intermediate portion therebetween, and a main bore. The adaptor sleeve axially receives the distal portion and includes an outer threading for engaging an air source adaptor of a paintball marker. The retainer threadably engages the main bore within the distal end, thereby axially securing the adaptor sleeve onto the distal end. The indexing ring receives the distal portion therethrough for resiliently biased axial movement of the indexing ring between a locking position and an unlocking position. When the indexing ring is in its unlocking position, the adaptor sleeve is rotatable with respect to the regulator body. When the indexing ring is in its locking position, the adaptor sleeve is rendered substantially non-rotatable with respect to the regulator body.Type: GrantFiled: May 29, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: YSN Imports, Inc.Inventors: Shmuel Dovid Newman, Jeffrey O. Brown
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Patent number: 8991379Abstract: A device for controlling the firing of an airsoft gun is provided with a valve under a butt. Pressurized air from a high pressure air canister is directed to a rear section of a chamber in the butt. Opening of a valve directs the pressurized air further into a front section of the chamber via the valve so as to bring a plastic pellet to a ready to fire position. Closing of the valve causes pressurized air in the chamber to push a plunger forward to fire the plastic pellet.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Ying-Jung Tseng
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Patent number: 8991380Abstract: A grip guard may be used with a crossbow that has a main beam including a stock and a barrel. The grip guard may have a first wall that is positioned between the stock and the barrel and a second wall that extends outwardly from the main beam. The first wall may have dampening properties to attenuate sounds and vibrations caused by firing the crossbow and the second wall may prevent a user's fingers from inadvertently extending from the handle toward the barrel.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2014Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Hunter's Manufacturing Co., Inc.Inventors: Richard L. Bednar, Jacob A. Hout
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Patent number: 8991381Abstract: The present invention provides a method of cutting a workpiece efficiently with high accuracy by utilizing tension adjusters to approximate tension in a wire in a wire saw to a predetermined target tension while effectively reducing only tension in a winder-side wire. The method comprises a forward-driven cutting step of cutting a workpiece while moving a wire forward, a first switching step of reversing a driving direction of the wire, a backward-driven cutting step of cutting the workpiece while moving the wire backward, and a second switching step of reversing a driving direction of the wire and returning to the forward-driven cutting step, the steps being repeated in this order. In both switching steps, only tension in a winder-side wire is reduced by tension manipulators. A reduction in target wire tension therefor is performed after completion of deceleration of the wire in each switching step.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2010Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Toyo Advanced Technologies Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jun Ohya, Tatsumi Hamasaki, Hiroyuki Yoshimura, Masaru Fukuman
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Patent number: 8991382Abstract: A fire pit includes a circular bottom plate and a circular, centrally-apertured log-supporting plate. A plurality of legs secured about the periphery of the log-supporting plate maintain the bottom and log-supporting plates in vertically spaced, parallel relation to one another. Each leg has a hollow uppermost end. A plurality of arcuate grates is mounted about the periphery of the log-supporting plate and a vertically-oriented post is secured to each of the grates, mid-length thereof. Each of the posts has a lowermost end slideably received within the hollow uppermost end of its associated leg to releasably connect each grate to the log-supporting plate. Arcuate openings positioned radially outwardly of the central opening enhance the flow of oxygen into the areas where combustion occurs. The log-supporting plate is inverted and the grates are stacked atop it when the fire pit is in its storage configuration.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Paul A. Mau
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Patent number: 8991383Abstract: An oven appliance is provided that uses the space behind oven rack supports formed in the side walls of the cooking chamber to provide for convection air flow. Slots or openings are provided along the supports for the flow of air into the cooking chamber. Additional features may be provided to further assist in directing the convection air flow. Such distribution of the convection air can provide for a more uniform flow of the heated, convection air while also conserving the space available in the oven for the cooking chamber.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: Eric Scott Johnson
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Patent number: 8991384Abstract: The present invention relates to a rotary barbecue device, which includes: a casing forming a body thereof and having an exhaust gas housing for collecting exhaust gas and an exhaust gas path connected to the exhaust gas housing to discharge the exhaust gas via an exhaust hole; a ceramic burner mounted at the upper side of the casing to radiate infrared rays towards the inside of the casing; two rotating discs; rotating members mounted to the corresponding rotation couplings of the two rotating discs; a driving unit connected to any one of the rotating discs to rotate one or more of the rotation couplings in the centers and the rotation couplings in the edges; and a moving unit connected to the rotating discs to move the rotating discs.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Kwang-Ho Choi
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Patent number: 8991385Abstract: Embodiments provide a cooking appliance. The cooking appliance includes: a cabinet; a burner assembly provided within the cabinet, for combusting a gas mixture of air and gas; a nozzle assembly for supplying gas to the burner assembly; an exhaust passage in which combusted gas generated during combusting of the gas mixture flows; an intake passage in which air for mixing with the gas flows; and a top plate provided above the burner assembly, wherein combusted gas in the exhaust passage is exhausted to an outside through natural convection, and air outside the cabinet is drawn into the intake passage through natural convection.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2008Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Jung-Ju Kwon, In-Sik Min, Sang-Min Lyu, Seong-Sig Cho
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Patent number: 8991386Abstract: A firebox for a gas grill with an infrared re-emitter surface at the top, at least one heat shield at the bottom, and sidewalls intermediate between the heat shields and the emitter plate forming a box like structure in which multiple small cross sectional area tubes with gas burner ports on the top or sides are disposed in an array between the heat shield and the emitter plate. The heat shield below the burner tubes has openings disposed below the burner tubes to admit secondary combustion air and provide cooling of the burner tubes preventing pre-ignition.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2009Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Char-Broil, LLCInventor: Mallik R. Ahmed
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Patent number: 8991387Abstract: Heating units, drug supply units and drug delivery articles capable of rapid heating are disclosed. Heating units comprising a substrate and a solid fuel capable of undergoing an exothermic metal oxidation reaction disposed within the substrate are disclosed. These heating units can be actuated by electrical resistance, by optical ignition or by percussion. Drug supply units and drug delivery articles wherein a solid fuel is configured to heat a substrate to a temperature sufficient to rapidly thermally vaporize a drug disposed thereon are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Alexza Pharmaceuticals, Inc.Inventors: Ramesh Damani, Ron L. Hale, Daniel J. Myers, Reynaldo J. Quintana, Dennis W. Solas, Soonho Song, Pravin Soni, Curtis Tom, Krishnamohan Sharma
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Patent number: 8991388Abstract: A movable solar array and method for capturing solar energy which includes a V-shaped longitudinal support forming a corner of an elongated truss located at each angle of a polygonal axial cross-section where an open web is fixedly attached between each V-shaped longitudinal support extending the length of the elongated truss. An end member is fixedly attached at each end of the support truss and includes a shaft extending longitudinally outwardly from the end member adapted to engage a drive to longitudinally rotate the elongated truss. Solar panels are attached along one face of the elongated truss, and at least one rotatable drive is capable of driving the shafts at the end of the elongated truss to move the solar panels in relation to a change of direction of incoming solar energy.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2010Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Nucor CorporationInventor: Bruce F. Brothersen
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Patent number: 8991389Abstract: A nebulizer includes a piezoelectric transducer for aerosolizing a drug solution in a disposable cup module disposed above the transducer. Acoustic waves generated by the transducer propagate sequentially through transmitting medium, a first barrier, coupling medium, and a second barrier that forms part of the cup module, and into the interior of the cup module. The transducer at least partially comprises silver. The silver fluidly contacts the transmitting medium to discourage bacteria growth in the transmitting medium. The device includes electronics components that drive the transducer and measure an electrical characteristic associated with the transducer during operation. The electronics components measures changes in the electrical characteristic to determine when the drug solution level falls below a predetermined threshold, and deactivates the device accordingly.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2007Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: RIC Investments, LLCInventors: Mark Morrison, Eric A. Lieberman, Lakshmi Penugonda
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Patent number: 8991390Abstract: The present disclosure provides a method and device for delivering a pharmaceutical to the airway of a human or animal patient. In one aspect, the device includes a dose drum formed into a cylinder and including a plurality of dose compartments for containing individual doses. In another aspect, the device may include a reservoir containing a pharmaceutical material in bulk form and a metering recess for metering the pharmaceutical material to form a pharmaceutical dose. Another aspect provides an inhaler with a combined reservoir and dosing chamber configured to contain multiple doses of a pharmaceutical material.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Microdose Therapeutx, Inc.Inventors: Henri M. Akouka, Daniel P. Becker
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Patent number: 8991391Abstract: Dry powder inhalers are described with an inhaler body defining an enclosed cavity space and at least one of (a) an endless strip having opposing primary surfaces, the strip comprising a plurality of spaced apart blisters or dose containers holding dry powder medicament. The inhaler also has an inhalation exit flow path in the inhaler body in communication with at least one blister or at least one dose container held by the strip in a dispensing position and a piercer configured to release dry powder medicament from the blister or dose container in the dispensing position.Type: GrantFiled: September 25, 2009Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Oriel Therapeutics, Inc.Inventors: George McGee Perkins, Scott Alexander Lewis, Andrew Murray Gow, David Harris
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Patent number: 8991392Abstract: A positive airway pressure apparatus is automatically adjusting. Pressure increases in response to apnea events when the apparatus is in one or more responsive states. Pressure does not increase in response to apnea events when the apparatus is in a non-responsive state. The apparatus switches between responsive and nonresponsive states depending upon any of a number of different criteria that help differentiate between open airway apnea events and closed airway apnea events.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2010Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Fisher & Paykel Healthcare LimitedInventors: David Robin Whiting, Andrew Gordon Gerred, Fiona Elizabeth Cresswell
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Patent number: 8991393Abstract: The present invention is a breathing improvement monitor that continuously measures involuntary breathing. The monitor is a sensor apparatus that is attached to a patient's mask which is connected to the monitoring apparatus. The sensor may be reusable and attachable and detachable to a mask or it may be an integral part of a breathing mask. The sensor technology may be any type sufficient in the art, including but not limited to solid state sensors, transducers, electromagnetic microturbines and the like. Since the mask does not have to be removed and the sensor provides constant signal to the monitoring apparatus, a real time status of a patient's involuntary breathing capability may be determined for a doctor's consideration.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Steven D Jensen
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Patent number: 8991394Abstract: A breathing protector may include a filter housing having a central axis, a distal end, a proximal end, a first opening and a second opening. The second opening may be located in a proximal end of the filter housing and the first opening may be located distally of the second opening, such that the first opening is located upstream of the second opening. An exchanging filter may be disposed in the filter housing and a valve seat may extend around the first opening. A rail, located circumferentially of the valve seat, may extend axially and distally away from the first opening. The rail may include a distal end and at least one rib. A valve member may be arranged in a transversal plane to the central axis and engage the valve seat in a closed position. A return spring may press the valve member into the open position.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2009Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Atos Medical ABInventor: Jan-Ove Persson
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Patent number: 8991395Abstract: A cushion module provided to a frame module for delivery of a supply of gas at positive pressure to be delivered to a patient's airways, the cushion module comprising a main body and a cushion, the main body defining a breathing chamber and having an exterior surface adapted to directly engage with a surface of the frame module, wherein the main body and the cushion together comprise a co-molded, integrated component, the main body comprising a molded polycarbonate material adapted to directly contact the frame module and the cushion comprises a molded silicone material adapted to interface with patient's face, and wherein the molded polycarbonate material of the main body is a more rigid material than the molded silicone material of the cushion.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: ResMed LimitedInventors: Eva Ng, David James Lockwood, Jamie Graeme Wehbeh, Zoran Valcic, Errol Savio Alex D'souza, Matthew Eves, Mahsita Sari
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Patent number: 8991396Abstract: An endotracheal tube apparatus with two ports. The first port extends from a patient's mouth in a direction substantially in line with the patients oral cavity. The second port extends from a patient's mouth in a second direction. An endotracheal tube adapted to be inserted in a patient's trachea through the patient's mouth, is in fluid communication with the first port and the second port. The second port of the endotracheal tube apparatus may be adapted to be secured to a patient's mandible. The endotracheal tube apparatus may have at least two locations for securing the apparatus to a patient.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2007Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: The Board of Trustees of the University of IllinoisInventor: Girish G. Deshpande
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Patent number: 8991397Abstract: In some embodiments, an airway assembly may be used in a procedure that requires tracheal intubation. The airway assembly may include a first conduit, a sleeve, and a stent. The first conduit and the sleeve may be relatively flexible, facilitating insertion of the airway assembly in a body lumen (e.g., an air passage way). The first conduit may function to deliver gases (e.g., air) to the body lumen and consequently the patient. The first conduit may be positioned in the sleeve during use. The sleeve may be removably coupled to the first conduit. In certain embodiments, a sleeve may function to inhibit a stent from expanding until desired. In some embodiments, an elongated member may be positionable in the first conduit. The elongated member may be configurable to substantially retain a new shape upon deformation. The stent may be coupled towards the distal end of the first conduit. The stent may function to inhibit the body lumen from collapsing.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: BiO2 Medical, Inc.Inventor: Luis F. Angel
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Patent number: 8991398Abstract: A method of maintaining airway patency in an airway of a patient which includes the steps of implanting a device into tissue adjacent an airway, the device having a bioerodable material wound around a resiliently deformable body to temporarily maintain the deformable body in a stretched, deformed state, and permitting the bioerodable material of the device to bioerode to apply a force to maintain airway patency. The invention also provides devices for practicing the method.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: ReVENT Medical, Inc.Inventors: Edward M. Gillis, Octavian Iancea
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Patent number: 8991399Abstract: A sleep apnea prevention sleep-aid mask is described. The sleep-aid mask is configured to secure the lips of a user together in a natural state, in order to encourage the respiratory system of the user to employ the nasal passages rather than the mouth for respiration. A pad equipped with a perforated mesh or channel is positioned over the lips and mouth of the user, and secured in position on the user via an adhesive, which temporarily affixes the pad to the face of the user. The sleep-aid mask is preferably shaped and sized according to the specific size of the user's face, and is configured to limit the effective diameter of the mouth of the user, in order to cause continued use of respiration via the nasal passages.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Andre Michalak
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Patent number: 8991400Abstract: A back support apparatus intended for use during emergency transport of a patient suffering an actual or suspected spine injury is disclosed. The device provides a solid support for the arched portion of the spine that molds to the shape of the individual patient's back. The device comprises a bag or other container into which a solid curable material and a liquid activator are introduced, which is then placed beneath the patient's spine on a back board or like support. The device may be deployed quickly without the need for additional straps, belts, or the like, and may be treated as disposable due to its low cost.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2007Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Richard E. Lloyd
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Patent number: 8991401Abstract: The present invention generally relates to an apparatus and processes for preventing or delaying presbyopia. More particularly, the present invention relates to processes and apparatus for ablating epithelial cells in the germinative zone or the pregerminative zone of the crystalline lens of the eye so that onset or progression of presbyopia or one or more symptoms is delayed or prevented. The present invention also relates to processes and apparatus for promoting formation of suture lines in the crystalline lens of the eye so that onset or progression of presbyopia or one or more symptoms is delayed or prevented. The present invention also relates to processes and apparatus for creating disruptions in the vitreous humor of the eye.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2009Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Lenticular Research Group, LLCInventors: George J. McArdle, Jerry R. Kuszak
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Patent number: 8991402Abstract: Devices, cartridges, and method are described herein for emulating smoking wherein a device generates an aerosol for inhalation by a subject by heating a viscous material that can have a tactile response in the mouth or respiratory tract, while reducing Hoffman analytes and mutagenic compounds delivered to the user as compared to a common tobacco cigarette.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2008Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: PAX Labs, Inc.Inventors: Adam Bowen, James Monsees
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Patent number: 8991403Abstract: A method of thermally processing a tobacco material is provided, the method including the steps of (i) mixing a tobacco material, water, and an additive selected from the group consisting of lysine, glycine, histidine, alanine, methionine, glutamic acid, aspartic acid, proline, phenylalanine, valine, arginine, di- and trivalent cations, asparaginase, saccharides, phenolic compounds, reducing agents, compounds having a free thiol group, oxidizing agents, oxidation catalysts, plant extracts, and combinations thereof, to form a moist tobacco mixture; (ii) heating the moist tobacco mixture at a temperature of at least about 60° C. to form a heat-treated tobacco mixture; and (iii) incorporating the heat-treated tobacco mixture into a tobacco product.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: R.J. Reynolds Tobacco CompanyInventors: Gong Chen, Anthony Richard Gerardi, John-Paul Mua, Darrell Eugene Holton, Jr., Daniel Verdin Cantrell, Frank Kelley St. Charles, Cheryl Cooper Scott
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Patent number: 8991404Abstract: A process and apparatus for shredding tobacco sheets, especially tobacco sheets formed of reconstituted tobacco particles with guar and sugar comprises rotating opposing sets of cutter discs in a partially overlapping relation so as to establish a nip. The cutter discs have notches at spaced locations along a peripheral portion of the cutter discs. Adjacent pairs of cutter discs are spaced apart by a spacer disc with a stripper plate interposed between adjacent pairs of spaced apart cutter discs. A tobacco sheet which is fed into the nip of the sets of cutter discs is shredded by the discs.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2007Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Philip Morris USA Inc.Inventors: Leonard W. Lipscomb, Ricky L. Bowman
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Patent number: 8991405Abstract: An applicator assembly is provided, the applicator assembly includes a base member, a cap member removably associated with the base member, a container for a substance to be applied; and an applicator member removably associated with the container. The container and applicator member are configured to be received within an interior space defined between the base member and cap member.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Kathryn Hope Rose
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Patent number: 8991406Abstract: A wig for a wearer. The wig includes a cap and primary hair. The cap is worn by the wearer. The primary hair is affixed to the cap, and when the wig is worn by the wearer, the wearer has a pre-styled hairdo.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Shelah D. Salter
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Patent number: 8991407Abstract: In cosmetic equipment, the combination comprising, a support receptacle containing a chamber, a cosmetic device at least partly concealed in stored position in the chamber, a pusher to controllably displace the device from stored position so that at least a portion of the device protrudes from the chamber and is presented for use, a handle carried by and movable relative to the support receptacle to controllably displace the pusher.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2011Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Lava Industries, Inc.Inventor: Derik Zhang
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Patent number: 8991408Abstract: A device for cleaning channels including a rod-shaped carrier element, at least one cleaning element that is connected with the carrier element, and at least one additional cleaning element that can be detached from the carrier element. A method for cleaning instrument channels wherein the cleaning device is moved in the axial direction in the instrument channel as far as an end point; after reaching the end point the cleaning device is moved back in the opposite axial direction in the instrument channel. Owing to the reverse motion of the cleaning device, the detachable cleaning element is released from the carrier element and thereafter is no longer part of the cleaning process of the previously cleaned instrument channel and can no longer soil the channel. The device and method removes from the instrument channel the substances that are to be removed and produces an efficient and good cleaning result.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2009Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Norbert Hansen
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Patent number: 8991409Abstract: An umbrella case comprising a pouch having a bottom end and a top end, such that a collapsed umbrella can be inserted into the pouch through an aperture in the top end, an enclosure member configured to selectively close the aperture of the top end, and one or more connecting members configured to be selectively coupled with components of a stroller or other device. The pouch can have corresponding fasteners that can be selectively coupled with one another to adjust the length of the pouch.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2012Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventors: Irene Guimaraens, Florencia Kaufmann
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Patent number: 8991410Abstract: A chair shade including a cover sheet, frame having a first end and a second end, a sliding unit simultaneously affixed to the cover sheet and slideably affixed to the frame such that the sliding unit moves along the length of the frame when a force is applied and maintains its position on the frame when no force is applied and a securing unit that secures the first end and second end of the frame to corresponding opposite sides of a chair.Type: GrantFiled: February 22, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Alysium Trading Co.Inventors: James Surek, Marinela Surek, Scott W. Beu, Ronaldo J. Santiago, Renato E. Imaña
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Patent number: 8991411Abstract: A screen tent apparatus for beach chair that includes a netting apparatus disposed to overlie a pair of bowed frame members, said bowed frame members attachable to each of a first bar and a second bar releasably securable to the respective head and foot of an extant beach chair, wherein the netting apparatus concavely situates a roof section overlying said beach chair and a pair of side sheets vertically encloses each side of said beach chair, whereby a user is enabled screened comfort in the outdoors and entry of insects to the beach chair and a user seated thereupon is preventable.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Inventor: Jospeh Neuman
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Patent number: 8991412Abstract: A portable and foldable shelter has a canopy frame with an arm hub adjacent to a top end of a canopy pole, and a sliding collar on the pole. The canopy frame also includes a plurality of arms with each arm having an outer arm segment attached to an inner arm segment via an arm hinge joint. The arm hinge joint may include a slider movable into a locking position where the inner and outer arm segments are rigidly fixed in a straight locked-out. A flexible cover is attached to or supported on canopy frame. The portable shelter is lightweight, highly compact when folded, easy to use, and easy carry.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2013Date of Patent: March 31, 2015Assignee: Pro Performance Sports, L.L.C.Inventors: Allen Holland, William Parsons