Patents Issued in April 26, 2016
  • Patent number: 9322132
    Abstract: A method for applying a corrosion-protective coating to a roller component includes the steps of providing a device for thermal spray coating, providing a stainless steel material, coating at least one part of the surface of the roller component by applying the stainless steel material using the device for thermal spray coating and sealing the applied coating by a polymer material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Voith Patent GmbH
    Inventors: Alexander Etschmaier, Jürgen Angerler, Hasso Jungklaus, Goar Hesselmann
  • Patent number: 9322133
    Abstract: Processes disclosed are capable of converting biomass into high-crystallinity nanocellulose with surprisingly low mechanical energy input. In some variations, the process includes fractionating biomass with an acid (such as sulfur dioxide), a solvent (such as ethanol), and water, to generate cellulose-rich solids and a liquid containing hemicellulose and lignin; and mechanically treating the cellulose-rich solids to form nanofibrils and/or nanocrystals. The total mechanical energy may be less than 500 kilowatt-hours per ton. The crystallinity of the nanocellulose material may be 80% or higher, translating into good reinforcing properties for composites. The nanocellulose material may include nanofibrillated cellulose, nanocrystalline cellulose, or both. In some embodiments, the nanocellulose material is hydrophobic via deposition of some lignin onto the cellulose surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: API Intellectual Property Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Kimberly Nelson, Theodora Retsina, Vesa Pylkkanen, Ryan O'Connor
  • Patent number: 9322134
    Abstract: Processes disclosed are capable of converting biomass into high-crystallinity nanocellulose with low mechanical energy input. In some variations, the process includes fractionating biomass with lignosulfonic acids, to generate cellulose-rich solids; and mechanically treating the cellulose-rich solids to form nanofibrils and/or nanocrystals. The strong lignosulfonic acids created during delignification give a pH less than 1 and hydrolyze preferentially the amorphous regions of cellulose. The total mechanical energy may be less than 500 kilowatt-hours per ton. The crystallinity of the nanocellulose material may be 80% or higher, translating into good reinforcing properties for composites. The nanocellulose material may include nanofibrillated cellulose, nanocrystalline cellulose, or both. In some embodiments, the nanocellulose material is hydrophobic via deposition of lignin onto the cellulose surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: API Intellectual Property Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Kimberly Nelson, Theodora Retsina, Vesa Pylkkanen, Ryan O'Connor
  • Patent number: 9322135
    Abstract: A method for producing a fiber web (W) in which method the fiber web (W) is calendered in at least one nip (NA) of a calender (20A). The fiber web (W) is cooled at least partially by moisturizing evaporating cooling by a moisturizing evaporating cooling unit (10) before the fiber web is calendered and moisture is absorbed during 10-500 ms. A production line for producing fiber webs (W) has a calender (20A) with a calendering nip (NA). The production line for fiber webs, in particular board webs, has a fiber web machine (50), in particular a board machine, with a head box, a wire section, a press section and a drying section, and at least one moisturizing evaporating cooling module (10), and a hard nip calender (20A) with a thermo roll, which has a surface temperature at least 120° C., and a reel-up (40).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Valmet Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Reijo Pietikäinen, Mika Viljanmaa, Jari Ilomäki, Seppo Luomi
  • Patent number: 9322136
    Abstract: Sanitary tissue products employing fibrous structures that exhibit novel compressibility properties alone and in combination with plate stiffness properties and methods for making same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: The Procter & Gamble Company
    Inventors: Ward William Ostendorf, Guillermo Matias Vidal, Jeffrey Glen Sheehan, David Warren Loebker, Ryan Dominic Maladen, John Allen Manifold
  • Patent number: 9322137
    Abstract: Method for building structures, particularly passages under operating railways or the like. The invention relates to a method for considerably reducing the occurrence and duration of temporary service interruptions required for building underpasses. After temporarily interrupting service on the tracks (9) and placing said tracks perpendicular to the site in the embankment of the passage that is to be built, the top of the embankment is cleared of soil in order to allow the deck (4) to be built and sealed (7), then the work area is backfilled (8) and the tracks are put back in place in order to allow traffic to resume at the end of the service interruption period. The side walls (10) of the passage are built by digging channels down to the foundation, placing reinforcement and pouring cement therein, then the interior of the passage is graded in preparation for the eventual permanent bottom slab (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Mustapha Aboulcaid
  • Patent number: 9322138
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to industrial equipment for the hot recycling of asphalt mixes. The industrial equipment may comprise a portable bank of hoppers which may be used to meter RAP and unadulterated petrous materials and may be mounted on a supporting structure, along with gear motors which control the metering and send a signal to a flow indicator in a control panel where it may be recorded and controlled. A conveyor belt may be provided below the hopper bank in order to receive the material and transport same to a rotary cylinder comprising an industrial open-flame burner that may be used to transmit heat energy indirectly to the RAP and to the supply of unadulterated petrous material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Rodolfo Villalobos Davila
  • Patent number: 9322139
    Abstract: A self-propelled construction road milling machine, includes a machine frame and a milling drum housing, in which a milling drum is arranged. The machine includes a drive unit with which the height of the scraper blade of a scraper device can be adjusted in relation to the milling drum. A control unit for the drive unit adjusts the height of the scraper blade and a measurement device measures the distance between the lower edge of the scraper blade and the milled material. The control unit is designed in such a way that the scraper blade is height-adjustable depending on the height of the milled material remaining in the milled track. The control unit ensures that, on the one hand, the milled material can come out of the milling drum housing unimpeded behind the milling drum in the direction of work and, on the other hand, that the milling drum housing is shut above the material that is coming out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Wirtgen GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Berning, Andreas Vogt, Cyrus Barimani, Günter Hähn
  • Patent number: 9322140
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a main hopper having a surface cleaning configuration and a sander-salter configuration. In the surface cleaning configuration, the main hopper has a debris-laden airflow ingress, an airflow egress, and a debris dumping egress, and is sealed to the ambient surroundings other than the debris-laden airflow ingress and the airflow egress. In the sander-salter configuration, the main hopper has a sander and salt receiving ingress and a sand and salt egress. In use, in the surface cleaning configuration, the debris-laden air enters the main hopper through the debris-laden airflow ingress, air exits the main hopper through the airflow egress, and the debris exits the main hopper through the debris dumping egress. In use, in the sander-salter configuration, the sand and salt enter the main hopper through the sander and salt receiving ingress, and the sand and salt exit the main hopper through the sand and salt egress.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Roger P. Vanderlinden
  • Patent number: 9322141
    Abstract: A moldboard utility system enhances the features of a moldboard, or snowplow on a vehicle by integrating known vehicle components into different sections of the moldboard. Lighting, towing, and powering components commonly found on a vehicle are integrated into the moldboard. A moldboard lighting system includes headlights, turn signal lights, fog lights, spot lights, light emitting diodes, and emergency lights. The lights integrate directly into the various sections of the moldboard. For example, a headlight positions in a central section of the moldboard, directing an illumination onto the roadway. Turn signal lights attach to a pair of wings on the moldboard. The moldboard lighting system positions onto the moldboard in substantially the same elevation and orientation as vehicle lighting. A towing system integrates into the moldboard, enabling a tow line to attach to the moldboard or vehicle tow hook. A powering system integrates into the moldboard, providing access to power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Nicolai Tykalsky
  • Patent number: 9322142
    Abstract: A field testing device usable to determine the scour-depth potential of soils relied upon to support structural foundations placed in flowing water is disclosed. The device measures the scour potential in-situ, in relative terms, to the scour potential of fine sand using a columnar containment vessel driven into the soil to be tested. Within the columnar containment vessel is a cutting head as an aid in directing a water flow in a generally horizontal direction across the surface of the soil to be tested. Additionally, the cutting head serves to aid in the evacuation of eroded soil from with the containment vessel through an exhaust port. The exhaust port is part of a continuous closed loop water system which provides water for the scour testing and then removes the used water along with eroded soil particulates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: The U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration
    Inventors: Bart S. Bergendahl, Kornel Kerenyi
  • Patent number: 9322143
    Abstract: A retaining wall clamping assembly facilitates bracing of a temporary retaining wall. The assembly includes a bar having a first section coupled to a second section. The first section is selectively extendable and retractable relative to the second section. Each of a pair of jaws extends from an associated one of the first section and the second section. The jaws are aligned defining a clamp for engaging a retaining wall. A bracing aperture extends through the bar for coupling a brace to the bar by a connector inserted through the bracing aperture to support the retaining wall in an upright position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Desmond D. Bryan
  • Patent number: 9322144
    Abstract: A water inflow impervious manhole cover assembly includes a molded non-metallic frame, an imperforate manhole cover and a fastening mechanism releasably interconnecting the frame and the cover. The frame includes an annular peripheral frame wall defining a cover-receiving seat with a radially inwardly extending lip having a seating surface with an annular sealing channel formed therein. The fastening mechanism includes cams rotatable relative to the frame between a locked position wherein the cams engage the frame and an unlocked position wherein the cams are disengaged from the frame for removal of the cover. An annular watertight seal is formed between a bottom planar surface of the cover and the seating surface of the frame and a gasket retained within the annular sealing channel, when the cams of the fastening mechanism are disposed in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: IM2 MERCHANDISING AND MANUFACTURING INC.
    Inventor: David Brent Sinclair
  • Patent number: 9322145
    Abstract: Quick coupler (1) for attaching a tool (2), comprising an attachment bracket with two parallel attachment pins (3a, 3b), to an earth moving vehicle. The quick coupler (1) comprises a frame (4) with a first cutout (5) and a second cutout (6) arranged substantially perpendicular to each other, where the respective cutout is adapted to cooperate with the respective attachment pin (3a, 3b) of the tool (2). The quick coupler (1) further comprises at least one, in relation to the frame (4) moveable locking arrangement (9), adapted to delimit the second cutout (6) in a direction parallel to the first cutout (5), at least one, in the frame (4) arranged, actuator (8) adapted to move the locking arrangement (9) between a first open and a second locked position, and a lock indication device (10) which visually indicates if the locking part (9) is in the first or second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: STEEL WRIST AB
    Inventors: Markus Nilsson, Stefan Stockhaus, Sven Siggstedt
  • Patent number: 9322146
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system and method for arbitrating between joystick inputs. The system generates a first command based on the first input if the first input has a non-zero value, and generates a second command based on the second input if the first input has a zero value and the second input has a non-zero value. The system thereby allows two different inputs to control a single commanded function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew S. Marquette, Sreeram K. Kristam, Michael J. Firman
  • Patent number: 9322147
    Abstract: An information display device includes a display device that is mounted in a construction machine and displays various types of information of the construction machine, and a control device that deletes a display of a guide mark guiding a function of a display change-over switch for changing information displayed on the display device in a screen on which at least information of a fuel amount and information of an engine water temperature are displayed when the construction machine is in the operation state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Kazuaki Date
  • Patent number: 9322148
    Abstract: A mapping system includes a pose sensor, a mapping sensor, a database defining a work surface, and a controller. The controller is configured to receive pose signals and determine the position and the orientation of the machine and receive mapping signals and determine a plurality of raw data points. The controller further determines a plurality of machine points defining a position of a portion of the machine and filters the plurality of raw data points based upon the plurality of machine points to define a plurality of filtered data points. The database may be updated with the plurality of filtered data points.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignees: Caterpillar Inc., Carnegie-Mellon University
    Inventors: Kenneth L. Stratton, Louis Bojarski, Peter Rander, Randon Warner, Jason Ziglar
  • Patent number: 9322149
    Abstract: There is provided a work vehicle in which a work implement can be freely operated. The work vehicle includes: a design surface information acquiring unit for acquiring data of a design surface indicative of a target shape of a work object by the work implement; a cutting edge position computing unit for computing a position of a cutting edge of a bucket; and an operation restricting unit for executing operation restriction control by which, when the cutting edge of the bucket comes closer to the design surface, operation of the work implement is stopped before the cutting edge of the bucket reaches the design surface. In a case where the cutting edge is located away from the design surface in a downward perpendicular direction by a prescribed distance or longer, the operation restricting unit does not execute the operation restriction control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.
    Inventors: Takeshi Takaura, Yoshiki Kami, Jin Kitajima
  • Patent number: 9322150
    Abstract: Wear members for wear assemblies include a lock configured to secure the wear member to a base, where the lock has two engagement positions, namely: (a) a first position that secures the lock to the wear member, and (b) a second position that secures the wear member to the base. The locks are further configured to be unlatched and removed from the wear member in two phases, a first retraction of the latching mechanism, followed by a rotation of the lock itself with removal from the wear member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: ESCO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Christopher A. Johnston, Donald M. Conklin, Michael B. Roska, William D. Rossi, Kevin S. Stangeland
  • Patent number: 9322151
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a sensor module, a transmission module, a flow reduction module, and a flow return module. The sensor module senses presence of a shower item on a shelf in a shower and senses a lack of presence of the shower item on the shelf. The transmission module wirelessly transmits an item missing signal. The item missing signal is transmitted in response to sensing a lack of presence of the shower item on the shelf. The flow reduction module reduces water flow to a shower head in the shower from a first flow level to a reduced flow level in response to wirelessly receiving the item missing signal. The flow return module returns water flow to the first flow level in response to expiration of a restore time delay or wirelessly receiving an item return signal in response to sensing a presence of the shower item on the shelf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Janani Janakiraman, Dany R Madden, Meenakshi Sripal
  • Patent number: 9322152
    Abstract: The shower head contains a nozzle body and a handle. The nozzle body contains a connecting rod, a support disc, and a container. The container is rotated by water from the handle and its stored liquid soap, essence, or lotion is released by centrifugal force. Water mixed with soap or essence is then ejected from the nozzle head. When the connecting rod is twisted towards a direction, the container is prevented by the support disc from contacting with water and therefore pure water is ejected from the nozzle head. A special flow path is provided in the handle. As water flows through handle, the speed of the water increases and, due to the Venturi effect, outside air is sucked into the handle and mixed with the water, thereby producing a large number of tiny bubbles. The shower head therefore provides a significantly enhanced cleaning effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Shinichi Kawamoto
  • Patent number: 9322153
    Abstract: A degradable sanitary ring configured for nesting within a drain portion of a sink, such as a kitchen sink or bathroom sink, is further configured to elute one or more sanitizing agents as the ring degrades. The sanitizing agents may include antimicrobial agents or scented oils. The degradable sanitary ring is used to improve sanitation in and around the sink area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SINK RING, LLC
    Inventor: Thomas P. Melheim
  • Patent number: 9322154
    Abstract: A plumbing trap flushing device for use in association with one of a drain in a sink, an overflow drain in a basin, a drain in a bathtub, an overflow drain in a bathtub or shower and the like is disclosed. The plumbing trap flushing device includes a connector, a conduit and a nozzle. The connector is releasably and operably attachable to a spout of a tap. The conduit is in flow communication with the connector and has an outside diameter and an inside diameter. The outside diameter is dimensioned to fit into the drain, whereby when the conduit is in the drain air and water freely flows around the conduit into the drain. The nozzle is in flow communication with the distal end of the conduit. The nozzle has a nozzle inside diameter less than the inside diameter of the conduit whereby the water exits the nozzle in a stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: BOEMAR INC.
    Inventor: Bart D. Beaumont
  • Patent number: 9322155
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide resistance hanging screens, configured for installation into a storm drain or a component of a storm drain, that comprise a front plate and first and second hanging pivots. The combination of the location of the center of gravity of the resistance hanging screens and the first and second hanging pivots confers a bias of the resistance hanging screens to occupy a closed position when the resistance hanging screen is installed in the storm drain or the storm drain component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Ernest Jarvis
  • Patent number: 9322156
    Abstract: A filtration apparatus for curb vaults may be installed in existing vaults through the road-level inlet opening into the vault. A support plate assembly of the filtration apparatus suspends a primary and secondary filter and is movable between extended and retracted positions. An adjustable attachment system allows installation of the filtration apparatus by inserting the apparatus through the inlet opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Clean Way Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen J. McInnis, Matthew Moulton
  • Patent number: 9322157
    Abstract: A drain fixture with a mechanically coupleable outlet fitting is described. The drain fixture includes a drain body having an aperture in a bottom floor thereof. A coupler with cylindrical body is inserted through the aperture such that the body extends below the floor. An outlet fitting is disposed beneath the floor and receives the body of the coupler therein. The outlet fitting includes a plurality of projections in an interior surface thereof that are received by respective channels in the body of the coupler. The outlet fitting is rotated with respect to the coupler to mechanically join the two together, such as in a bayonet-style coupling. The joining traps the floor of the drain body between flanges of the coupler and the outlet fitting. Downstream tubing can be coupled to the outlet fitting as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Sioux Chief Mfg. Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Dominic P. Ismert
  • Patent number: 9322158
    Abstract: A method of manufacturing a column for a post frame building. The method including providing a plurality of elongate members arranged side by side. Each elongate member having first and second ends, and first, second, third and fourth faces. The plurality of elongate members may include a first side member, one or more center members, and a second side member. The method further including providing a spacer formed by a first spacer portion, a second spacer portion and a third spacer portion, the second spacer portion being at about a 90 degree angle to the first and third spacer portions. Inserting the first spacer portion between the second face of the first side member and the first face of one of the one or more center members. Inserting the third spacer portion between the second face of the one of the one or more center members and the first face of the second side member, and joining the first side member, the one or more center members, the second side member and the spacer together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas Gerard Langmeier
  • Patent number: 9322159
    Abstract: One possible embodiment of the invention could be a construction spacer for holding boards in a parallel and spaced-apart manner comprising a Y-shaped base having a first and second base ends, the first base end forming a C-shaped aperture; a pair of spaced apart J-shaped attachment arms that perpendicularly attaches to the first base end and further forms hook portions that together can hold a first board; a pair of lateral support arms that extends outward from the first body end; an L-shaped attachment arm that perpendicularly attaches to the second base end and forms a catch that can hold a second board parallel to the first board, wherein the C-shaped aperture can accept a second base end of another construction spacer to allow a plurality of construction spacers to be connected together in tandem order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Jack W. Evans, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9322160
    Abstract: A process of manufacturing a cardboard building construction material, said cardboard building construction material comprising a plurality of glued cardboard plies, wherein the cardboard plies are rolled on a drum (122) into a roll (114) and wherein glue (134) is circumferentially applied in spaced apart strips (238) thereby defining a non-glued region between the strips, in which region a cutter (246) cuts the cardboard plies from an outer diameter toward an inner diameter of the roll (114).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Alfred Iseli
  • Patent number: 9322161
    Abstract: The present application discloses improvements to support clamps for panels of glass and the like. An arrangement of two clamping halves (9000) each having a clamping surface (9001) and a locating component (9070) interlocking the two halves. Each of the two clamping surfaces are brought together by movement of the locating component through a range of positions, preferably lengthwise, such that portions of them are urged apart thus pressing together the clamping surfaces and securing the panel. In addition the first and second clamp halves include each an opening for a fastener (7014) within a flange (7010, 7012) such that the second opening is oriented approximately perpendicular to the first opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventors: John Michael Schopf, Manfred Schopf
  • Patent number: 9322162
    Abstract: A guiding means at a joint including groove and tenon preferably intended to be joined with glue. The tenon and/or groove includes guiding wedges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: PERGO (EUROPE) AB
    Inventors: Ola Olofsson, Ulf Palmblad
  • Patent number: 9322163
    Abstract: An expansion joint seal for a structure includes a central portion having at least one central chamber disposed around a centerline, a first flange portion extending outwardly from the centerline and a second flange portion extending outwardly from the centerline in a direction opposite the first flange portion. When installed on the structure, the first flange portion is attachable to a first substrate of the structure and the second flange portion is attachable to a second substrate of the structure such that the central portion is disposed within and seals a gap formed between the first substrate and the second substrate of the structure. Movement of one or both of the first substrate and the second substrate causes a response in the central portion to maintain the seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: EMSEAL JOINT SYSTEMS, LTD.
    Inventor: Lester Hensley
  • Patent number: 9322164
    Abstract: A multilayer insulation has first and second outer polymeric layers having respective first and second outer metallized surfaces and respective first and second bonding layers inner side thereof. A third metallized coating is between the outer first and second polymeric layers. An air cellular assembly is between the first bonding layer and the second bonding layer. The air-cellular assembly has a plurality of air-filled cells between a first air cellular film and a second air-cellular film. In one embodiment, the third metallized coating is directly bonded to the first bonding layer, the second bonding layer, or a third bonding layer. Another embodiment has a total polymeric thickness of from 7 to 20 mils, a total thickness of from 1.5 to 4 centimeters, and an intrinsic normalized R-Value per inch of at least 2.9. A climate control duct can be surrounded by the multilayer insulation laminate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Sealed Air Corporation (US)
    Inventors: Steven W. Ray, Dale F. Tokarski, Lamont M. Millspaugh
  • Patent number: 9322165
    Abstract: A dynamic passive acoustic panel device comprises an enclosure having a front opening, an absorbent panel of sound absorbent material mounted in the enclosure behind the front opening, and a reflective surface mounted in the front opening in front of the absorbent panel. The reflective surface comprises a tessellated array of reflective panels of matching shape arranged in a series of rows, each row being mounted for rotation about a central axis so as to vary the angle of inclination of the reflective panels in each row relative to the absorbent panel from zero degrees to ninety degrees to the absorbent panel, so as to vary the reflection and absorption characteristics of the panel device. A control system controls rotation of the rows of reflective panels, so as to vary the reflection and absorption levels between maximum reflection and maximum absorption based on desired acoustic properties of a space in which the panel device is located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Erik J. Luhtala
  • Patent number: 9322166
    Abstract: A flush mount masonry veneer anchor for mounting on an exterior wall and tying a masonry veneer to the exterior wall, the masonry veneer anchor comprising an anchoring portion with anchor holes to receive a suitable fastener to attach the anchoring portion to an exterior surface of the exterior wall and a tie wire holding portion extending perpendicularly from the anchoring portion, the tie wire holding portion having one end connected to the anchoring portion and having a slot in an opposite end for holding a tie wire for tying the masonry veneer to the exterior wall, the anchor holes being in line with the tie wire holding portion to transfer extrusion and compression loads exerted on the tie wire holding portion directly through fasteners in the anchor holes to the exterior wall without an offset of a plane of the transfer of the forces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Bailey Metal Products Limited
    Inventor: John Rice
  • Patent number: 9322167
    Abstract: A connector for a pair of decking boards, having grooves or recesses in their side walls, laid end-to end, has at least one connector member with parallel side edges arranged for “wedging-type” engagement with the grooves or recesses across the joint between the adjacent ends of a pair of the decking boards. A bridging member extends substantially from the connector member, optionally interconnects a pair of the connector members, and is received in rebates in the adjacent ends of the pair of decking boards at the joint. The bridging member is relatively rigid in the vertical plane; but may be telescopic, or may flex, in the horizontal plane; when in use. The decking boards are laid on a support structure, with respective connector members overlapping the joint between the ends of a pair of the decking boards, so that the connector members of the connector at the joint engage the respective grooves or recesses of the adjacent overlapping decking boards, and the bridging member(s) engage in respective rebates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Peter Charles Campbell-Lloyd
  • Patent number: 9322168
    Abstract: This disclosure provides a device and a method to manage ceilings with stains caused by water condensation. The device is a pad having an insulation layer saturated with antimicrobial compound and a water proof membrane glued under the insulation layer. The pad can be cut to any size. The pad is laying freely on top of a drop ceiling panel and it may be replaced easily when needed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Todd Nugent
  • Patent number: 9322169
    Abstract: Technology is provided for a strut hanger for connecting a strut to a hanger rod includes a hook portion configured to engage the exterior surface of the hanger rod, a lever portion, a fulcrum disposed between the hook portion and lever portion, and a strut tab extending from the lever portion and configured to engage a strut. Load placed on the strut tab causes the lever portion to act against the fulcrum to force the hook portion against the hanger rod, thereby supporting the strut from the hanger rods without fasteners attached to the hanging rods. The strut hanger can include a clip extending from the lever portion to engage the hanger rod and maintain a minimum load on the lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: FACEBOOK, INC.
    Inventors: Marco Magarelli, Scott C. Wiley
  • Patent number: 9322170
    Abstract: A bracing device has a supporting module and a restraining element mounted around the supporting module to provide a restraining-supporting effect to the supporting module. The supporting module has at least one supporting element. The at least one supporting element is elongated and has an axial segment and two connecting heads. The axial segment has at least one concave edge and at least one loading section. The connecting heads are respectively formed on two connecting ends of the axial segment. The restraining element has at least one viewing hole aligning along the at least one loading section of the axial segment to enable a user to see the at least one supporting element of the bracing device via the at least one viewing hole without dismantling the restraining element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Chong-Shien Tsai
  • Patent number: 9322171
    Abstract: A bracing device has a supporting module and a restraining element mounted around the supporting module to provide a restraining-supporting effect to the supporting module. The supporting module has at least one supporting element. The at least one supporting element is elongated and has an axial segment and two connecting heads. The axial segment has at least one concave edge and at least one loading section. The connecting heads are respectively formed on two connecting ends of the axial segment. The restraining element has at least one pair of side boards, two restraining boards and at least one viewing hole. Each one of the restraining boards has an I-shaped cross section, an inner panel, an outer panel and a connecting panel. The at least one viewing hole is formed through the restraining element and aligns along the at least one concave edge of the axial segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Chong-Shien Tsai
  • Patent number: 9322172
    Abstract: A concrete structure member strengthened with prestressed FRP elements includes a concrete structure body and a prestressed FRP element arranged on the former. An epoxy resin overlay surrounding the prestressed FRP element is provided to wrap it up, and a polymer concrete supplemental layer is provided outside the epoxy resin overlay. The concrete structure member can uniformly and effectively transfer the stress from the prestressed FRP element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: SOUTHEAST UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Zhishen Wu, Gang Wu, Kentaro Iwashita, Jianbiao Jiang, Min Zhang
  • Patent number: 9322173
    Abstract: Described is a lightweight shingle assembly (LSA). The LSA is formed of a fastening portion that is secured with a shingle portion. The shingle portion is any weather resistant shingle material, such as slate, granite, limestone, etc., while the fastening portion is a lightweight and weather resistant material, such as aluminum sheet metal. Further, an insulating support can be positioned within the fastening portion to further support and insulate the LSA. Thus, the LSA provides lower roofing weight loads than solid material shingles with the same appearance and function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Pisani
  • Patent number: 9322174
    Abstract: A cantilevered leaf spring is biased against the upper edge of a roofing tile to prevent the tile from sliding upward beneath an overlying upper row of roofing tiles. The leaf spring can be formed as a part of a tile fastener which includes a hooked portion for receiving and holding the lower edge of a roofing tile on a roof. A series of tile fasteners is mounted to a layer of roofing material to facilitate installation of tiles without the need for installation tools. Damaged tiles can be easily replaced without the need for installation or removal tools. With this system, each row of underlying tiles is locked in place by the combined effect of an overlying and overlapping row of tiles and a spring awl on an upper fastener pushing the upper edge of a tile downwardly so that the lower edge of the tile is forced into the mouth of a lower fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventors: John M. Williams, Robert B. Williams
  • Patent number: 9322175
    Abstract: A mixture comprising a bitumen (A), and a polymer composition (B) comprising the following components, all percent amounts being by weight: I) from 1 to 30% of a butene-1 polymer having a Melt Flow Rate (MFR), measured according to ASTM D 1238, at 190° C./2.16 kg, from 0.1 to 1000 g/10 min.; and II) from 70 to 99% of a heterophasic polyolefm composition comprising the following polymer fractions: a) 4-45% of a propylene homopolymer or copolymer; b) 0-20% of a of a copolymer fraction containing ethylene, insoluble in xylene at room temperature; c) 40-95% of a copolymer of ethylene with propylene and/or a CH2?CHR ?-olefin, where R is a C2-C8 alkyl radical, containing ethylene in a quantity lower than 40% and being soluble in xylene at room temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Basell Poliolefine Italia S.r.l.
    Inventor: Gian Luigi Rigosi
  • Patent number: 9322176
    Abstract: A roof system is provided including a roof deck and a first waterproofing membrane disposed upwardly adjacent the roof deck. A channel member is arranged over a portion of the first waterproofing membrane near a perimeter of the roof system. The channel member is secured to the roof deck with a plurality of fasteners. Insulation is arranged upwardly adjacent the first waterproofing membrane A weighted cover board is disposed on top of the insulation. A portion of the insulation and the weighted cover board is arranged within the cavity of the channel member. The first waterproofing membrane surrounds the channel member and extends over a portion of an upper surface of the weighted cover board. A second waterproofing membrane is positioned upwardly adjacent the weighted cover board. The second waterproofing membrane overlaps the portion of the first waterproofing membrane extended over the weighted cover board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas L. Kelly
  • Patent number: 9322177
    Abstract: A skylight system including a support frame and an apex patch fitting that together support a plurality of glass pieces joined together in a selectable shape. The support frame includes a sill and a setting chair that are arranged to support the base portions of the glass pieces. The apex patch fitting may be of selectable shape and includes an upper and lower member to retain the peaks or corners of the glass therebetween. The apex patch fitting includes one or more positioning keys to align and secure the glass pieces. A method of making the skylights includes the use of an apex retainer tool to maintain the apex patch fitting in a fixed position while placing glass pieces on it. Multiple apex patch fittings can be used for a skylight, including a skylight that is ridge shaped or hipped ridge shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Bellwether Design Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Michael C. Maguire, William J. Wright, Brian J. Harrington
  • Patent number: 9322178
    Abstract: A skylight with a sunlight pivot is provided. The skylight includes an external cover, a light channel, and a sunlight pivot disposed between the cover and the light channel. The sunlight pivot may include a periphery, a plurality of struts, and first and second prisms connected to at least two of these struts. The first and second prisms may define a void between them. The first prism has a cross-section configured to redirect light incident upon the exterior of the pivot to increase the amount of light passing into the light channel. The second prism is configured with a cross-section configured to redirect light incident upon the exterior of the pivot to decrease the amount of light passing through the periphery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: VKR HOLDINGS A/S
    Inventors: Steve Roy Kastner, Charles Joseph Rimsky
  • Patent number: 9322179
    Abstract: A roofing suspension support and related system and methods are disclosed. The roofing suspension support can comprise a support member, a purlin web coupling portion, and a fixture coupling feature. The purlin web coupling portion can be located at a top end of the support member. The web coupling portion can be configured to couple the support member to a web of a roofing purlin. The fixture coupling feature can be located at a bottom end of the support member. The fixture coupling feature can be configured to couple a fixture to the support member and to position the fixture below a lower flange of the purlin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Inventor: Craig Oberg
  • Patent number: 9322180
    Abstract: A rail receiving member includes a rail receiving member having a bottom wall, a plurality of side walls, and a back wall, and is configured to receive and connect to an end of a rail member. The back wall of that rail receiving member may be attached to a vertical member and covered by a cap. In an adjustable railing bracket installation, a hinge assembly can be selectively coupled to the rail receiving member in at least two orientations, each of which allowing for rotation of the rail receiving member about a hinge axis of the hinge assembly. A first orientation permits rotation of the rail receiving member about the hinge axis of the hinge assembly in a vertical plane. A second orientation permits rotation of the rail receiving member about the hinge axis of the hinge assembly in a horizontal plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Fortress Iron, LP
    Inventors: Kevin T. Burt, Matthew Carlyle Sherstad, John David Irick
  • Patent number: 9322181
    Abstract: Simulated log siding is formed of an engineered cementitious composite. Single or dual flanges on each log piece is used to apply siding units to a surface. Some siding members are molded into a three dimensional configuration to appear as a structural wood log. Individual end pieces and molded tail clusters when used with the siding provide the appearance of the characteristic stacked or staggered corners of a log structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Concrete Log Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Cook, Stewart K. Hansen, Robert L. Whitson