Patents Issued in March 22, 2016
  • Power vehicle with adjustable velocity profiles
    Patent number: 9288939
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to powered vehicles (e.g., lawn mowers) and, more particularly, to a control system for use with such a vehicle. In one embodiment, the vehicle includes a power source such as an internal combustion engine and one or more drive control levers incrementally movable between a neutral position and a maximum velocity position. The system may also include a velocity profile control system having an adjustment member that permits altering a ratio between control lever movement and velocity of an associated drive member or wheel. Thus, the system may alter a maximum potential velocity of the vehicle while the drive control lever(s) are positioned in the maximum velocity position without varying an output level of the power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: The Toro Company
    Inventors: Steven R. Porter, Dale A. Stover
  • Lawn mower with transport lock
    Patent number: 9288940
    Abstract: A transport lock assembly for the mower deck of a lawn mower automatically engages when the deck is lifted to a clearance height. The transport lock assembly includes a transport lock that is biased into a locking position by a biasing member. The transport lock engages a surface of a deck prop that is also used in the lawn mower's height-of-cut assembly. The transport lock assembly includes a transport lock actuator that is used to disengage the transport lock, and also includes a transport lock disabling mechanism that prevents the transport lock from automatically engaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Ariens Company
    Inventor: Brent P. Berglund
  • Agricultural harvesting machine with device for maintaining a comminution assembly
    Patent number: 9288941
    Abstract: An agricultural harvesting machine embodying a forage harvester includes a comminution assembly with a drum equipped with a plurality of knives. The drum is set into rotation opposite a stationary shear bar in order to comminute crop fed in a region of a cutting gap formed by knives and the shear bar during the harvesting operation. A device controls a rotational speed (n) of the drum at least during a maintenance procedure of the comminution assembly, depending on a property of the drum.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH
    Inventor: Manfred Pollklas
  • Electric riding mower having air-cooled chassis and pivotable protective cowling
    Patent number: 9288942
    Abstract: An electric riding mower efficiently cools a motor driver. The mower includes two running motors 16 independently driving paired rear tires 13; a mower blade mowing grass by being rotated; a mowing motor 15 rotating the mower blade; a battery 25 supplying electric power to the running motors 16 and the mowing motor 15; and a mower-motor driver MD controlling the rotational speed of the mowing motor 15, wherein the mower-motor driver MD is disposed in a driver storage part on a front part of the mower, and a slit 33SL taking in external air is disposed on a front surface of the driver storage part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: YANMAR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kazuma Moriguchi, Shinichi Motegi, Keiji Matsumoto, Mitsuhiro Nakagaki, Tomoyuki Ebihara
  • Rake wheel with plastic support band for tines
    Patent number: 9288943
    Abstract: A rake wheel has a hub with tines extending outwardly from the hub. The tines extend through evenly spaced openings in a support band. At least the inner periphery of the openings through the support band are made of a material softer than the material of the tines to minimize the wear of the tines where the tines touch the inner periphery of the openings as the tines move with respect to the inner periphery of the openings during the use of the rake wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Forage Innovations B.V.
    Inventor: Rustin V. Bentzinger
  • Removable troughs for a cleaning system of an agricultural harvester
    Patent number: 9288944
    Abstract: A cleaning system for use in an agricultural harvester includes a sieve and an auger arrangement positioned below the sieve. The auger arrangement includes an auger, an end plate carrying the auger and having a curved slot positioned radially outside of the auger, a deformable seal associated with the curved slot, a trough having an inner side wall, and an elongate removable pull out which is slidable through the curved slot adjacent to the inner side wall. The removable pull out and the deformable seal together being configured to prevent exit and entry of loose particles through the curved slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Jason R. Coppinger, Tyler D. Brockel, Craig E. Murray, William L. Cooksey
  • Baler
    Patent number: 9288945
    Abstract: A baler is formed with a bale chamber for compressing agricultural crop into bales, at least one knotter for knotting twine wrapped around a finished bale and a twine store having at least one magazine in which the twine rolls for supplying the knotter are accommodated with axes lying on a common line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: USINES CLAAS FRANCE S.A.S.
    Inventors: Thorsten Scharf, Ulrich Hesselmann
  • Bin sweep with inclined portion
    Patent number: 9288946
    Abstract: An elongated sweep apparatus for moving particulate matter in a bin may comprise a sweep assembly movable over the floor of the bin and including a particulate sweep structure configured to move particulate matter toward the inboard end of the elongated sweep apparatus, and a housing generally extending between opposite ends of the sweep apparatus with a portion of the sweep structure being positioned in the housing. A first portion of the particulate sweep structure may extend along a primary movement axis and a second portion of the particulate sweep structure may extend along a secondary movement axis, and the primary movement axis may extend substantially parallel to the floor and the secondary movement axis being inclined upwardly from the primary movement axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Sioux Steel Company
    Inventor: Eric Schuld
  • Folding handsaw pack-pole systems
    Patent number: 9288947
    Abstract: A folding handsaw pack-pole system is a folding pruning saw that a hunter or woodsman may conveniently carry folded and may carry in a sheath having a belt loop, for trimming branches from thick foliage or wooded area to clear lanes through the woods for shooting. The handle has a pole receiver so that the hunter doesn't have to carry a long extension handle with him into the woods, but rather cuts an appropriately sized branch to slide into the pole receiver to cut high branches that are normally beyond the user's reach without such an extension.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Ronald Burnette
  • Insulated shipping containers modified for high-yield plant production capable in any environment
    Patent number: 9288948
    Abstract: A system and method for generating high-yield plant production is disclosed. The system includes a container, a growing station, and a monitoring system. The growing station includes vertical racks, a lighting system, an irrigation system, a climate control system, and a ventilation system. The monitoring system monitors all of the systems in the growing station, as well as the environment within the container, to provide real-time data and alerts to a user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Freight Farms, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad McNamara, Jon Friedman
  • Grubbing apparatus
    Patent number: 9288949
    Abstract: An apparatus for removing trees and bushes from the ground includes a frame configured for attachment to a vehicle. A first device is attached to the frame and configured to grasp a tree or a bush. A second device is attached to the frame and configured to cut, below ground, roots of the tree or bush grasped by the first device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Jon E. Basinger
  • Non-invasive sprinkler
    Patent number: 9288950
    Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein provide systems and methods for an in-ground sprinkler to controller a liquid flow rate through a chamber, while reducing or eliminating leakage. Embodiments may utilize a flat, external surface that is configured to be flush with a ground surface to control the liquid flow rate through the in-ground sprinkler. In embodiments, a permanent magnet may be positioned on the flat, external surface to control an internal patch system. Responsive to the permanent magnet controlling the internal patch, liquid flowing through the chamber may be controlled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Christopher Hebison
  • Method and apparatus for aeroponic growth
    Patent number: 9288951
    Abstract: A system for growing plants without soil uses removable V-shaped baskets to support plants in a tiered, self-contained unit. Nutrient enriched water is sprayed on the plant roots. The roots are held by perforations in the elongated V-shaped basket and a plant blanket. The unit is multilevel and can be set over an aquarium. The growing shelf can have a worm bag in order to add natural nutrients. Baskets can be comprised of a pair of identical halves that can be readily mutually coupled. Coupling mechanisms can include those that snap together and those providing for a pivoting coupling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventors: Karen Hansen, Jeffrey Lawrence Harlan
  • Hybrid tomato ‘E15B70004’
    Patent number: 9288952
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a new and distinctive hybrid tomato designated ‘E15B70004’, to the plants of hybrid tomato ‘E15B70004’, to the plant parts of hybrid tomato ‘E15B70004’ including the fruit, and to methods for producing a hybrid tomato using ‘E15B70004’ as a parent. The disclosure further relates to methods for producing a tomato plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic plants produced by that method and to the methods for producing other tomato lines derived from hybrid tomato ‘E15B70004’.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: ENZA ZADEN BEHEER B.V.
    Inventor: Jeremy M. Sisson
  • Maize inbred PH1VTK
    Patent number: 9288953
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH1VTK and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1VTK with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1VTK through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1VTK or a locus conversion of PH1VTK with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Wendy Ann Srnic, Andrew Jon Ross
  • Maize inbred PH1CSG
    Patent number: 9288954
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH1CSG and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1CSG with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1CSG through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1CSG or a locus conversion of PH1CSG with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Goran Srnic
  • Inbred corn line SLB22
    Patent number: 9288955
    Abstract: An inbred corn line, designated SLB22, the plants and seeds of the inbred corn line SLB22, methods for producing a corn plant, either inbred or hybrid, produced by crossing the inbred corn line SLB22 with itself or with another corn plant, and hybrid corn seeds and plants produced by crossing the inbred line SLB22 with another corn line or plant and to methods for producing a corn plant containing in its genetic material one or more transgenes and to the transgenic corn plants produced by that method. This invention also relates to inbred corn lines derived from inbred corn line SLB22, to methods for producing other inbred corn lines derived from inbred corn line SLB22 and to the inbred corn lines derived by the use of those methods.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Agrigenetics Inc.
    Inventor: Kermit B. Bohning
  • Soybean variety 09AY403123-1
    Patent number: 9288956
    Abstract: Disclosed is the seed of a novel soybean variety, designated 09AY403123-1, a sample of which is deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-122133. Also disclosed are plants, or parts thereof, grown from the seed of the variety, plants having the morphological and physiological characteristics of the 09AY403123-1 variety, and methods of using the plant or parts thereof in a soybean breeding program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Agrigenetics Inc.
    Inventor: Robert E. Moore
  • Maize hybrid X18D794
    Patent number: 9288957
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated X18D794 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof, produced by crossing Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. proprietary inbred maize varieties. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprises crossing hybrid maize variety X18D794 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into X18D794 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. This invention relates to the maize variety X18D794, the seed, the plant produced from the seed, and variants, mutants, and minor modifications of maize variety X18D794. This invention further relates to methods for producing maize varieties derived from maize variety X18D794.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Khusi Ram Tiwari, Daniel P. Gorman, Thomas Russell Henry, Terry R. Colbert, Joseph D. Anderson, Jason Michael Prothro, Nathan Brook O'Berry
  • Maize inbred PH19V8
    Patent number: 9288958
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH19V8 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH19V8 with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH19V8 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH19V8 or a locus conversion of PH19V8 with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Enrique Domingo Kreff
  • Maize inbred PH1W4K
    Patent number: 9288959
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH1W4K and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH1W4K with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1W4K through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH1W4K or a locus conversion of PH1W4K with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Edwin Michael Grote
  • Soybean variety BK000496
    Patent number: 9288960
    Abstract: Disclosed is the seed of a novel soybean variety, designated BK000496, a sample of which is deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-122489. Also disclosed are plants, or parts thereof, grown from the seed of the variety, plants having the morphological and physiological characteristics of the BK000496 variety, and methods of using the plant or parts thereof in a soybean breeding program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Agrigenetics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kari Greason
  • Soybean variety XB55Z14
    Patent number: 9288961
    Abstract: A novel soybean variety, designated XB55Z14 is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XB55Z14, cells from soybean variety XB55Z14, plants of soybean XB55Z14, and plant parts of soybean variety XB55Z14. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XB55Z14 with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XB55Z14, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XB55Z14, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XB55Z14. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XB55Z14 are further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Mark J Hood
  • Low-slip high-capacity teat cup liner
    Patent number: 9288962
    Abstract: A hot stone therapy and acupressure roller including a specially designed rod where hollow, cylindrical stones, along with acupressure pins, are spaced along the rod. As the rod is applied to the body, the attached stones roll and acupressure may be applied. Targeted acupressure can be applied on either side of the rod, and the acupressure pins serve to hold the cylindrical stones and spacers in place. The stones can be inserted onto the rod or used individually. The stones can be used to conduct a cold and/or hot stone massage. Additionally, each end of the rod is shaped for use as a massage tool. When using either end of the rod as a massage tool, the acupressure pins serve to improve grip and increase leverage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Steven Brent Priest
  • Device and method for removing dirt from a floor
    Patent number: 9288963
    Abstract: A device for removing dirt from a floor includes a carrier frame moveable over the floor, a motor mounted on the carrier frame, and a rotating body drivable by the motor and connected with the carrier frame. Several shovel-holders for shovelling dirt from the floor are mounted on the rotating body spaced apart from each other in the peripheral direction, are moveable along a path along the floor, and each have an open end in the rotation direction of the rotating body. A sweeper device for sweeping dirt out of one of the shovel-holders is arranged along the path of the shovel-holders on the carrier frame at a position substantially stationary in relation to the carrier frame, and is fitted with a sweeper element which, on rotation of the rotating body, moves between the shovel-holders and sweeps through one of the shovel-holders in order to sweep out dirt therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: LELY PATENT N.V.
    Inventors: Mikael Hillforth, Huibrecht Johannes Arjen Van Den Beukel, Peter Henry Clements
  • Animal litter, process for preparing animal litter and method of removal of animal waste
    Patent number: 9288964
    Abstract: An animal litter, process for preparing the animal litter and a method for removal of animal waste using the animal litter are provided. The animal litter generally includes ground malt sprouts, a lubricant, and a cohesiveness agent. The animal litter is in the form of discrete plural particles which tend to agglomerate when wetted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Kent Pet Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Lin Wang, Thomas A. Wiesner
  • Reinforced feeder for livestock
    Patent number: 9288965
    Abstract: A livestock feeder with improved corrosion resistance and collapse resistance is described. The feeder comprises a polymeric cylinder with an open top and an interior surface. The interior surface defines a hollow interior where feedstuffs can be placed. One or more feeding portals extend through the cylinder to provide livestock access to feedstuffs. The feeding portals include a lower ledge against which livestock exerts a force while accessing feedstuffs in the feeder interior. A reinforcing annulus extends around the interior surface of the feeder proximate to and below the lower feeding portal ledge. The reinforcing annulus may be integrally formed with the polymeric cylinder or separately formed and attached to the polymeric cylinder. The feeder can withstand repeated feedings without collapse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Rick Patterson
  • Collapsible pet bowl
    Patent number: 9288966
    Abstract: A flexible pet bowl is provided. The flexible pet bowl may include a main trough and one or more side pockets that may be used to store one or more items, such as bags, food, or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Gated Distribution, Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel J. Penn
  • Pet care systems
    Patent number: 9288967
    Abstract: A system relating to provide improved food and water delivery to at least two canine pets of at least two different heights. The system elevates the food to a more ideal position for consuming the food and/or water. Moreover, the invention provides storage-assisting (folding) embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Sheril A. Wampler
  • Salt lick block support incorporating a liquid container therein
    Patent number: 9288968
    Abstract: A salt lick block support incorporating a liquid container therein has a main body member having a hole in a top surface thereof. A hollow central portion adapted to hold a granular material therein, and a base portion extending outwardly from a lower section thereof and including a plurality of holes therethrough adapted to allow fasteners therein to securely hold the salt lick block support to a chosen surface. A plurality of fasteners adapted to extend through respective of the plurality of holes and engage the chosen surface. A removable container adapted to hold a liquid therein, has an opening in a top portion thereof, and is adapted to fit and be held in place within the hole in the top surface of the main body member, wherein the removable container further includes a small aperture in a bottom surface thereof that is adapted to allow the liquid to pass therethrough in a drop-by-drop fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Serge Bourgault
  • Puzzle pet toy and treat dispenser
    Patent number: 9288969
    Abstract: A puzzle pet toy and treat dispenser comprising of a housing, a lid, an inner chamber, a drum aperture, a motor assembly, and an external chamber. The inner chamber is divided by a plurality of vertical radial walls, creating a plurality of containers formed by the inner surface of the vertical radial walls, a plurality of tangential walls parallel to the vertical surface of the drum aperture, the inner surface of the drum aperture, and the lid. The plurality of containers hold non-liquid pet treats, and an opening on the drum aperture aligned vertically with the tangential walls allows the pet treat on a given container to be released into the external chamber, where said treats can be dispensed outside of the pet toy and treat dispenser during play. A motor assembly rotates the drum aperture to the next opening, creating a revolver action to dispense the contents of the next chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventors: Tristan M Christianson, Gregory Snyder
  • Baiter style body and fishing hook
    Patent number: 9288970
    Abstract: An apparatus used for maintaining bait or bait fish at a more level attitude when trolling includes a non-stranded wire attached to a hook. A first end of the wire is threaded through an eye of the hook and wrapped around a shank of the hook. A main loop is provided at an opposite second end. The main loop can be modified to include a first upper loop and a second upper loop. The second upper loop is attached to a fishing line and a pin is inserted into a head of the bait fish, through the first upper loop, and through a bottom of a mouth of the bait fish to secure the bait fish to the apparatus. An elastic band maintains the mouth in a closed position. If desired, a single thicker non-stranded wire may be used or an optional trailer hook may be added to any version.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Steven William Washington
  • Fishing lure
    Patent number: 9288971
    Abstract: A fishing lure having a bent half-moon shape body. The top portion of the fishing lure having at least one attachment point. The bottom portion of the fishing lure is angled relative to the top portion. The shape of the fishing lure resulting in an up and down motion of the lure as it is dragged through the water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: James Joseph Yelton
  • Tool and collar device for use with attaching skirts of a fishing lure
    Patent number: 9288972
    Abstract: A tool and collar for affixing a multi-banded skirt to a fishing lure is disclosed. The collar includes a base member containing a central bore having a first portion with a first diameter and a second portion having a greater diameter. An outer annulus is contained on the collar for receiving a binder. The tool includes first and second mateable rods which receive the collar therebetween. Banded strands dispose on each rod in relation to the collar. The binder is positioned over each strand and disposed into the annulus to tie the strands to the collar. Opposing ends of each banded strand are cut to form the skirt. The collar and skirt are removed from the rods and positioned onto a lure with the first portion of the bore seating onto a retaining portion of the lure, and the second portion of the bore disposed about a flange thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Skirts Plus Corporation
    Inventors: Donald J. Link, Timothy J. Link, Eric W. Schwartz
  • Thumb button for fishing reels
    Patent number: 9288973
    Abstract: A fishing reel, such as a spincast reel, that includes a body having a frame that defines a thumb button attachment member on a rear side of the frame. A spool and spinner head are rotatably mounted forward of a front side of the frame. A front cover is secured to a front side of the frame to enclose components. A thumb button is pivotally secured to the thumb button attachment member. The thumb button has an actuating post that extends forwardly for applying force to a rearward end of a center shaft when the thumb button is depressed. A back cover is affixed to the rear side of the frame. The back cover defines a thumb button orifice for allowing a user to access the thumb button when the back cover is secured to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: W.C. BRADLEY/ZEBCO HOLDINGS, INC.
    Inventors: Kent L. Zwayer, Robert Wilson
  • Shot applicator device
    Patent number: 9288974
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a shot applicator device and, more particularly, to an automatic shot applicator device including a housing with a shot storage/delivery chamber, a tip structured to deliver the shot into tubing attached to various fishing tackle/equipment including fishing rigs, line, hooks, leaders, fly fishing tippet, and/or inserting directly into lures and baits, thereby changing the density (add or decrease weight) of the fishing tackle/equipment, and a mechanism structured to apply a force to the shot thrusting it through the tip and into such material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Bryan Alguire
  • Apparatus to fish
    Patent number: 9288975
    Abstract: An apparatus to fish having a body with exterior and interior faces extending from a first edge to a first end. The body further has a handle fixed to the interior face. A housing assembly has a clasp and is removably mounted from within the body, whereby the clasp receives the handle. The body further has a lip assembly. The lip assembly has a second edge and a first sidewall. The lip assembly further has at least one aperture and at least one through hole. The lip assembly is defined at the first end. The first sidewall has at least one indent. Each aperture securely receives a tip of a respective fishing hook that is tied to a distal end of fishing line. A proximal end of the fishing line is tied to the at least one through hole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventors: Pedro J. Arias, Miguel E. Fernandez
  • Game calling device
    Patent number: 9288976
    Abstract: A housing forms an enclosed chamber. A container essentially fills the chamber is fabricated of a crinkle paper or like material adapted to produce a crackling and rustling sound when touched and manipulated by a user. A plurality of objects within the container are fabricated of a rigid material adapted to provide a three dimensional shape to the container and the housing for facilitating the movement of the crinkle paper or like material when manipulated by the user for creating a sound which will attract game during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: Steven J. Wright
  • Disinfectant detergent composition
    Patent number: 9288977
    Abstract: A disinfectant detergent composition containing a food or food additive as a main component is provided. The disinfectant detergent composition contains the following components (a), (b), and (c). The sum [a+b] of the component (a) content and the component (b) content of the composition ranges from 0.1% to 30% by mass, the mass ratio [a/b] of the component (a) to the component (b) ranges from 1/2 to 4/1, and the component (c) content of the composition ranges from 60% to 99.5% by mass. (a) polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate (b) a fatty acid glyceride in which the number of carbon atoms of its acyl group ranges from 8 to 12, the monoglyceride content of the component (b) being 85% by mass or more, the mass fraction of 1-monoglyceride relative to the total amount of monoglycerides being in the range of 0.9 to 1.0 (c) water and/or ethanol.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: NOF CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kazuaki Wakita, Satoko Matani
  • Insecticide-impregnated nets and use thereof for protecting against pests
    Patent number: 9288978
    Abstract: Insecticide-impregnated nets made of textile fibers, which nets have a small mesh size, and their use for the protection against pests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: BASF SE
    Inventors: Ulrich Karl, Susanne Stutz, Hartmut Leininger, Claus Kaiser
  • Microencapsulated pendimethalin comprising alkali or alkaline earth metal salt of organic acid
    Patent number: 9288979
    Abstract: A microencapsulated formulation of pendimethalin comprising an alkali or an alkaline earth metal salt of an organic acid. Also described are processes for the preparation of the formulation and a method of controlling weeds at a location by using the described formulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: United Phosphorus Limited
    Inventors: Jaidev Rajnikant Shroff, Vikram Rajnikant Shroff, Prakash Mahadev Jadhav, Christian Becker
  • Low environmental impact pesticide made from “GRAS” ingredients for use against Coqui frogs and other species
    Patent number: 9288980
    Abstract: The current invention involves compositions and methods for killing various soft-bodied animals of interest with a low pH adjusted pesticide. The method involves contacting the soft-bodied animal of interest with the low pH adjusted pesticide, wherein the pesticide is a propionic acid composition, a citric acid composition, an Acidic Calcium Sulfate composition, or combination thereof. The pesticide has a lethal effect on Coqui frogs, but is less phytotoxic than higher concentration pesticides. The method includes spraying any of the pH adjusted pesticides thoroughly an area inhabited by the soft-bodied animals of interest, including any typical hiding places. On a large scale, the method contemplates filling various types of industrial spraying equipment with the pesticide and saturating entire pest inhabited areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Inventor: David Paul Davis
  • Antimicrobial compositions and related methods of use
    Patent number: 9288981
    Abstract: Antimicrobial compositions comprising one or more compound components generally recognized as safe for human consumption, and related methods of use, such compositions and methods as can be employed in a wide range of agricultural, industrial, building, pharmaceutical and/or personal care products and applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Jeneil Biosurfactant Company, LLC
    Inventors: Niranjan Ramanlal Gandhi, Victoria Palmer Skebba, Gary A. Strobel
  • Method for making a peroxycarboxylic acid
    Patent number: 9288982
    Abstract: The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for making a peroxycarboxylic acid. The apparatus includes a reaction catalyst and a guard column for pretreating one or more reagents, which can increase the life, activity, and/or safety of the reaction catalyst. The peroxycarboxylic acid compositions made by the method and apparatus can include one or more peroxycarboxylic acids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Ecolab USA, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. McSherry, Richard Staub, Dan N. Tallman, Junzhong Li, Keith D. Lokkesmoe
  • Compositions of dibromomalonamide and their use as biocides
    Patent number: 9288983
    Abstract: A biocidal composition comprising 2,2-dibromomalonamide and an electrophile containing biocide, and its use for the control of microorganisms in aqueous and water-containing systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Dow Global Technologies LLC
    Inventors: Bei Yin, Freddie L. Singleton
  • Herbicidal concentrate compositions containing glyphosate and dicamba salts
    Patent number: 9288984
    Abstract: The mixture of potassium or certain amine salts of glyphosate and dicamba allows the preparation of high-strength liquid compositions containing greater than 300 gae/L of total active ingredient loading if the pH is adjusted between about 6.0 and about 8.0. Compositions are particularly well-suited for herbicidal applications on crops that are resistant or tolerant to both glyphosate and dicamba.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Dow AgroSciences LLC
    Inventors: Hong Zhang, Holger Tank, Mei Li, Lei Liu, Stephen L. Wilson, Kuide Qin, David G. Ouse
  • Plant disease control composition
    Patent number: 9288985
    Abstract: To provide a plant disease control composition having excellent control effect against plant diseases. A plant disease control composition comprising an amide compound represented by formula (I): wherein each symbol is as defined in the description, and fludioxonil has excellent control effect against plant diseases.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: Sumitomo Chemical Company, Limited
    Inventors: Atsushi Iwata, Makoto Kurahashi
  • Plant disease control composition and method for controlling plant disease by applying the same
    Patent number: 9288986
    Abstract: This is to provide a plant disease control composition having a broad spectrum against various plant pathogens, and shows excellent controlling effects (synergistic controlling effects) which cannot be expected from a single component alone. A plant disease control composition comprising (Group a) at least one quinoline compound represented by the formula: (wherein R1, R2: an alkyl which may be substituted, an aryl which may be substituted, etc.; R3, R4: H, an alkyl which may be substituted, etc.; X: halogen, an alkyl which may be substituted, etc.; Y: halogen, alkyl, etc.; n: 0 to 4; m: 0 to 6) or a salt thereof, and at least one of fungicidal compounds selected from the group consisting of a Strobilurin series compound, a triazole series compound, etc., as effective ingredients.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: MITSUI CHEMICALS AGRO, INC.
    Inventors: Yasushi Tamagawa, Hiroshi Ishimoto, Mayumi Takagi, Toshiaki Ohara, Harukazu Tanaka
  • Microbicidal composition
    Patent number: 9288987
    Abstract: The invention relates to a microbicidal composition which comprises a mixture of at least two components, the first component being 2-methyl-3-isothiazolone (MIT) and the second component being at least one active compound selected from the following groups of active compounds: a) compound having activated methylol groups b) quats or polyquats c) carbamates d) organic acids e) aromatic alcohols.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: ISP INVESTMENTS INC.
    Inventors: Andrea Wingenfeld, Chistiane Ochs
  • Synergistic fungicidal active substance combinations
    Patent number: 9288988
    Abstract: Novel active compound combinations comprising a carboxamide of the general formula (I) (group 1) in which A, R1, R2 and R3 are as defined in the description, and the active compound groups (2) to (23) listed in the description have very good fungicidal properties.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2016
    Assignee: FMC Corporation
    Inventors: Ulrike Wachendorff-Neumann, Peter Dahmen, Ralf Dunkel, Hans-Ludwig Elbe, Anne Suty-Heinze, Heiko Rieck