Patents Issued in May 17, 2016
  • Patent number: 9340958
    Abstract: A mixing valve includes a cold water inlet, a hot water inlet, and an outlet, first and second flow control valves for controlling the flow of hot and cold water. Each of the first and second flow control valves include a valve inlet, first and second valve outlets communicating with the outlet, and a valve member assembly to control the flow of water through the first and second valve outlets. Each valve member assembly includes a first valve member configured to engage with a first valve seat and a second valve member configured to engage with a second, separate, valve seat. The first valve member is configured to be urged closed by water entering through the valve inlet and the second valve member is configured to be urged open by water entering through the valve inlet such that water exerts substantially no net force on the valve members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: KOHLER MIRA LIMITED
    Inventor: Kevin T. Peel
  • Patent number: 9340959
    Abstract: A plumbing fixture includes a body and a mixing valve within the body. The mixing valve includes a first linear actuator for controlling a first flow control valve within the mixing valve and a second linear actuator for controlling a second flow control valve within the mixing valve. A controller is located within the body and is configured to send control signals to control actuation of the linear actuators.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: KOHLER MIRA LIMITED
    Inventor: Kevin T. Peel
  • Patent number: 9340960
    Abstract: A trap primer for a dual flush toilet includes a housing having a water inlet port and both first and second outlet ports with the first outlet port being in fluid communication with a toilet bowl and the second outlet port being in fluid communication with a toilet tank. A float is disposed in the toilet tank and subject up and down motion due to a change in the water level in the toilet tank and a seesaw disposed in the housing enables flow of water from the inlet port alternatively to the first and second outlet ports through an arm interconnected with the float.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Hai Tao Xu
  • Patent number: 9340961
    Abstract: A toilet system including a bowl and a tank configured to hold water and air and deliver water to the bowl. The tank includes a water inlet and outlet. A valve having a seal pivots between an open position and a closed position where the seal closes the outlet. A lever positioned outside of the tank pivots to push the valve out of the closed position and towards the open position such that the outlet is opened and water flows out of the tank into the bowl. The valve rotates to the open position as water flows from the tank until the weight of the seal causes the valve to pivot back to the closed position. A plunger extends into the tank and applies a force that pushes the valve away from the closed position to the open position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: John O. Roeser
  • Patent number: 9340962
    Abstract: An operating device of the present invention includes: an operating member configured to be rotationally moved according to a rotational operation performed by a user; a rotary shaft; and a drive unit disposed above a level of flush water within a flush water tank, and configured to displace a coupling member according to a rotational movement of the rotary shaft, the coupling member coupling the drive unit and a water discharge valve together, and capable of opening and closing the water discharge valve by means of its own displacement, wherein the drive unit comprises a rotation mechanism configured to be rotated at a radius of rotation greater than that of the rotary shaft, the drive unit being operable to roll up the coupling member along its own rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: TOTO LTD.
    Inventors: Hideki Tanimoto, Koki Shinohara, Kenji Hatama
  • Patent number: 9340963
    Abstract: A transportable restroom comprises a skid; a clean water tank and a waste water tank disposed on the skid, the clean water tank and said waste water tank being joined together to form a base; walls extending from the base including a door; roof supported by the walls; and a toilet disposed over the waste water tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Bertram Y. Ito
  • Patent number: 9340964
    Abstract: A toilet flange anchor provides a secure connection between a toilet flange and the floor when the hole in the floor about the flange is formed larger than the toilet flange itself. The toilet flange anchor includes first end that can be secured to the floor and a second end, adjustable in length, which can be secured to the toilet flange. The toilet flange anchor can be secured to the toilet flange with a screw and a T-nut, adjusted in length to allow the first end to reach the floor, the first end can then be attached to the floor with a screw and then the screw can be further tightened into the T-nut to form a secure connection between the toilet flange and the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Stevens
  • Patent number: 9340965
    Abstract: A storm water nutrient separating vault has a floatable filter basket therein for collecting debris entering the storm water filter vault which basket rises and falls with the water level in the vault. The floatable filter basket has a pair of swiveling trucks attached thereto. Each truck is supported on a generally vertical track mounted to a wall of the vault on one side of the vault's inlet and has a plurality of rollers riding in the track. The floatable filter basket can therefore swivel or tilt while rising or falling with the water level in the vault to maintain an opening in the nutrient collecting basket in front of the vault's inlet for capturing floating debris in the storm water entering the vault.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Thomas H Happel
  • Patent number: 9340966
    Abstract: The present invention contemplates a reinforced concrete beam comprising a longitudinally extending concrete beam including a plurality of I-beam receptacles spaced apart along the length thereof and wherein each of the I-beam receptacles has a depth and a width to accommodate an end of an I-beam having an upper and lower metal flange of about equal width and a central metal web connecting the flanges, and in the building a hard rubberlike elastomer spacer is disposed between the I-beam receptacles and an end of an I-beam. The beams further include one to three longitudinally extending metal rods disposed underneath the I-beam receptacles and surrounded by concrete.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Naji M. A. M. Al-Failakawi
  • Patent number: 9340967
    Abstract: Panels can join to form a structural module via slotting, abutment, and rotational symmetry. The slots allow for assembly without additional fastening. Modules can range in shape and size, while conforming to the interlocking configuration between the panels. Panels can be joined to form various structures with similar connective features. The panel's combinability via the slots makes possible many structural forms and re-configurable applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Luke Daenen
  • Patent number: 9340968
    Abstract: A high-strength ribbon loop anchor and cavity wall anchoring system employing the same is disclosed. The ribbon loop anchor is a wire formative construct that is cold-worked with the resultant body having substantially semicircular edges and flat surfaces therebetween. The edges are aligned to receive compressive forces transmitted from the facing wall. The ribbon loops hereof, when part of the anchoring system, interengage with the veneer tie and are dimensioned to preclude significant movement lateral with or normal to the inner wythe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Columbia Insurance Company
    Inventors: Ronald P. Hohmann, Jr., Ronald P. Hohmann
  • Patent number: 9340969
    Abstract: A slip dowel tube and elongate dowel are disclosed herein which allow for transverse and longitudinal movement of two adjacent concrete slabs and also limit vertical movement of the two concrete slabs. The slip dowel tube is housed within a sheath that provides a void to allow for transverse movement of the slip dowel tube when the first and second slabs move transversely with respect to each other. The elongate dowel is slidably disposed within the main tube to allow for longitudinal movement or movement which brings the two slabs closer to or further away from each other. This system also limits vertical movement between the two adjacent slabs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Shaw & Sons, Inc.
    Inventor: Ronald D. Shaw
  • Patent number: 9340970
    Abstract: A laminated surface covering including a facing material made of vinyl and a backing material comprising a rubber component. The rubber component comprising at least a matrix of bonded rubber granules. A bonding material disposed between the facing material and the backing material. The facing material configured to melt at a temperature between 165° F. and 210° F. infiltrating the backing material thereby essentially encasing the rubber granules of the matrix and providing fire retardation and smoke suppression qualities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: ECORE INTERNATIONAL INC.
    Inventors: Arthur B. Dodge, III, John McFalls
  • Patent number: 9340971
    Abstract: This invention provides a composition for thermal insulation, comprising magnesium oxychloride cement (MOC) and air-filled glass or ceramic beads, and a method of preparing said composition. The composition may further comprise one or more additives selected from the group consisting of titanium dioxide, fly ash, pigment, potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KH2PO4) and sodium dihydrogen phosphate (NaH2PO4).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: NANO AND ADVANCED MATERIALS INSTITUTE LIMITED
    Inventors: Zongjin Li, Biwan Xu, Ye Tian, Honggang Zhu
  • Patent number: 9340972
    Abstract: A building system comprising: a building panel comprising first and second outer sheet members, an inner sheet member disposed between the first and second outer sheet members, and solid insulating material disposed between the first and second outer sheet members and the inner sheet member; a first track member, the first track member and the building panel being arranged such that the panel is engagable along a first side with the first track member and the first track member is connectable to the first and second outer sheet members; a second track member, the second track member and the building panel being arranged such that the panel is engagable along a second side with the second track member and the second track member is connectable to the first and second outer sheet members and the inner sheet member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: FBM LICENCE LIMITED
    Inventor: Kubashen Jerome Naidoo
  • Patent number: 9340973
    Abstract: An assembly for a structure comprises a support and a panel. The panel may be a glass panel. The assembly further comprises a structural adhesive, which couples the panel to the support. The structural adhesive may comprise a silicone. The structural adhesive h a first coupling surface facing the support and a second coupling surface spaced from the first coupling surface and facing the interior surface of the panel. The structural adhesive has a substantially right-trapezoidal cross-section, which is oriented in a certain direction relative to the panel and the support. The first coupling surface is sloped relative to the second coupling surface of the structural adhesive thereby reducing stress in the assembly due to environmental load subjected on the structure, such as wind load. Other supports and assemblies are also provided. The assembly may be used to form curtain walls, window walls, sky-lights, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignees: DOW CORNING CORPORATION, CURTAIN WALL DESIGN AND CONSULTING, INC.
    Inventors: Lawrence Donald Carbary, Charles Dunaway Clift
  • Patent number: 9340974
    Abstract: Floor panels are shown, which are provided with a mechanical locking system comprising tongue and grooves provided with protrusions and cavities which are displaceable in relation to each other and configured such that the protrusions can obtain a vertically unlocked position where they match the cavities and a vertically locked position where the protrusions overlap each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: VALINGE INNOVATION AB
    Inventors: Darko Pervan, Niclas Håkansson, Mattias Sjöstrand, Christian Boo, Agne Pålsson
  • Patent number: 9340975
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of casting in-situ a ferrocement ribbed slab with a spliced rack and a suspended formwork. The method comprises the following specific steps: step 1: machining at a plant a transverse plane truss girder, an incomplete longitudinal plane truss girder and an incomplete longitudinal plane truss; step 2: making a bottom formwork; step 3: splicing and constructing an on-site truss in a grid shape; step 4: suspending the bottom formwork; step 5: laying reinforcing mesh pieces; and step 6: performing in-situ casting. In the present method of casting in-situ a ferrocement ribbed slab with a spliced rack and a suspended formwork, the interspaced rack becomes a spliced rack and is applied to in-situ casting of floor slabs, such that a ferrocement ribbed slab is directly cast on site, and is cast as one with beams and columns, enabling the range of use of ferrocement ribbed slabs to be extended to the floor slabs of various buildings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Kunshan Ecological Building Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chun Liu
  • Patent number: 9340976
    Abstract: A modular ceiling comprising first and second main runners defining an upper surface and a lower surface, the upper surface defining a longitudinal retaining cavity along the first main runner and two grooves disposed parallel to and, respectively, on each side from the longitudinal retaining cavity; a cross member installable at an angle from the main runners and adapted to connect the first main runner with the second main runner, the cross member being secured to the main runners by a cross member fastener having a cross runner anchor adapted to engage the groove defined in main runners; and a panel adapted to be disposed between main runners and being supported, at least in part, by main runners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignees: LES PLAFONDS EMBASSY INC., EMBASSY CEILING INC.
    Inventor: Patrick Labonté
  • Patent number: 9340977
    Abstract: A construction system for joist girders, includes a pair of opposing bi-planar sheets of structural material, each bi-planar sheet having two alternating series of vertical segments, each segment of the series, in horizontal cross-section, defining a planar base parallel to a base of a successive vertical segment of the alternating series of vertical segments, the bases of each segment of the series integrally connected to each other by sidewalls. Respectively upper and lower horizontal track members define in transverse cross-section, a substantially U-shaped geometry, each track member open-ended for horizontally enclosing and securing an upper edge of each bi-planar sheet of the pair of bi-planar sheets. Several vertical tubular members define, in transverse cross-section, a geometry of a rectangle, said tubular members disposed between the pair of bi-planar sheets and nested within corrugated thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Lakdas Nanayakkara
  • Patent number: 9340978
    Abstract: Provided herein are connectors for use in assembling reinforced concrete structures, as well as methods of assembly using the connectors. In one embodiment, the connectors and methods provide for secure and easy connection to the butt end of any rebar rod, as well as attachment of an opposite end to another metal structure. For example, a butt portion of a connector slides over the butt portion of a rebar rod, and can include one or more sidewall openings to allow welding onto rebar that is enclosed within the butt portion of the connector. The opposite second end can include a faceplate for attaching a weld plate, thus permitting a series of connections using connectors and weld plates, among other things. The connectors provide selected properties that differ from the rebar, welds, and weld plates, such as stretch, yield strength, ultimate strength, and transfer of stress and vibration, among other things.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Lehigh University
    Inventor: Clay Naito
  • Patent number: 9340979
    Abstract: A roof covering element (a tile-like sheet) equipped with embossments according to the present invention characterizes in that the surface of the lower edge (2) of the roof covering element (1) has at least one embossment (3) done downwards and inwards in relation to the roof covering element (1) with an assembling hole (4) prepared centrally. A bottom of that embossment (3) is at zero or acute angle with the surface of the lower edge (2). The surface of the upper edge (5) of the roof covering element (1) has at least one embossment (6) done downwards and inwards in relation to the covering element (1) with an assembling hole (7) prepared centrally. A bottom of that embossment (6), preferably of circular shape, is at zero or acute angle with the surface of the upper edge (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: BOGDAN WIECEK BUDMAT
    Inventor: Andrzej Chabowski
  • Patent number: 9340980
    Abstract: A gutter wedge with improved performance comprising an attachment member and a support member is disclosed. The support member and the attachment member may comprise indentations that are capable of being nested. The configuration of the support member and the attachment member provide additional strength and stability with respect to known gutter wedges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Senox Corporation
    Inventor: Arnold Bruce Walters
  • Patent number: 9340981
    Abstract: A snow removal assembly for removing snow from a roof includes a building structured to have a roof. A rod is provided. The rod may be gripped by a user when the user is standing on the roof of the building. A block is coupled to the rod. The block may be urged through snow on the roof of the building. A pair of wings is movably coupled to the block. The wings are retained in a stored position when the block is urged through the snow in a first direction. The wings do not disturb the snow. The wings are retained in a deployed position when the block is urged through the snow in a second direction. The wings urge the snow off of the roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: James Cyrus Gardner
  • Patent number: 9340982
    Abstract: A tile having a contrast pattern intermixed with a portion of a background pattern. The contrast pattern is positioned proximate a selected corner of the tile and has a contrast color different than the colors of the background pattern. Within a surface covering, the rotational position of the tile can be varied to thereby achieve a desired visual appearance with respect to the contrast patterns of adjacent tiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Columbia Insurance Company
    Inventor: Pamela Managan Rainey
  • Patent number: 9340983
    Abstract: An entrance floor system is provided. The entrance floor system includes a base mat and a plate. The base mat has opposing bottom and top surfaces. The bottom surface of the base mat is configured to rest on a floor surface. The plate has opposing bottom and top surfaces. The bottom surface of the plate is configured to rest on the top surface of the base mat. The top surface of the plate has a border region and a non-border region. The non-border region is substantially parallel with the bottom surface of the plate and the non-border region has a pattern machined therein. The pattern includes a plurality of slots. At least one slot is configured to receive fluid and debris. The top surface of the plate in the border region includes a transition from the floor surface to the non-border region of the top surface of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: E.M.E.H., INC.
    Inventors: Jeff Gmitro, Matthew Umbriac, Charlie Brown
  • Patent number: 9340984
    Abstract: Disclosed is a new type of two-ply solid hybrid wood flooring system that utilizes an improved, more dimensional and stable solid wood backing layer or foundation with continuous solid structural edge beams made out of many small pieces of finger jointed solid wood strips and bonded together in such a way which eliminates waste of raw material, uses less adhesive and yields the maximum structural stability. The present invention combines the dimensional stability characteristics of a traditional perpendicular-grain engineered flooring product with the benefit of the thickness of the traditional solid wood flooring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Alan Lun Chou
  • Patent number: 9340985
    Abstract: A method for creating a parquet flooring is disclosed where scrap slats of wood from a woodworking manufacturing operation are collected and cut into blocks of a uniform length. The blocks are then arranged into tiles having a staggered pattern. The parquet tiles are then interlocking together by rotating one of the tiles into a complimentary pattern to create a flooring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Parquet By Dian
    Inventor: Anatoli Efros
  • Patent number: 9340986
    Abstract: A multi spacing decking tool allows comprising an elongated planar body provided with a plurality of spacers which have V-shaped teeth allows the installer to achieve the even gaps between decking planks and boards by accommodating up to six decking boards at a time, cutting the time it takes to achieve the gaps between boards. The V-shaped teeth enable the gauge to smoothly slot in between each plank or board and will set the same even gap throughout the work surface. The multi spacing decking tool allows the installer to achieve a faster installation of the decking boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: John Hamilton
  • Patent number: 9340987
    Abstract: A ride is formed comprising a channel forming a closed loop. The channel is able to receive water. Wave forming means are provided operable to create a wave, when the channel contains water, such that the wave will progress around the channel. The wave is of sufficient size to enable aquatic pastimes to be performed on the wave.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Stephen Francis Smythe
  • Patent number: 9340988
    Abstract: A pool drain cover includes a center hub which can be rotated with respect to an outer portion. A twisting of the center hub causes multiple (e.g., three or more) engagement arm assemblies to extend such that their distal ends engage the inner surface of a pool drain pipe, thereby holding the pool drain cover in place. The distal ends of the engagement arms may be provided with an anti-slip coating such as, for example, vinyl, rubber, etc., and/or an anti-slip finish. Alternatively, a metal (e.g., stainless steel) tab extending from the distal end of each of the engagement arm assemblies can be provided. The engagement arm assemblies can be released by twisting the center hub in the opposite direction, thereby permitting the pool drain cover to be removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Mick George Lyristakis
  • Patent number: 9340989
    Abstract: A lightweight insulating spa cover for a heated spa with an open top, the spa cover constructed with a substantially rigid perimeter frame with a plurality of cross supports in the form of tension bands that encompass the frame in a crisscross pattern to form a support for an outer casing that encases the frame with the outer casing being fabricated of a breathable weatherproof fabric that is stretched over a layer of reflective bubble wrap material that provides a cushion and added insulation for the hollow lightweight cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Jess E. Tudor
  • Patent number: 9340990
    Abstract: A guardrail post includes a post body, a first sleeve secured to the post body, a locking mechanism, a second sleeve, a slider, a first fastener, a limiting seal cover, and a first hanging rod. The locking mechanism includes a locking tube, a locking sleeve, and four clamping pieces. The second sleeve extends into the locking sleeve. The slider slidably is received in the second sleeve. The limiting seal cover is positioned on the second sleeve. The first hanging rod extends into the limiting seal cover. The locking tube extends into the first sleeve and defines four first through holes, the locking sleeve is sleeved on the locking tube. The four clamping pieces are respectively positioned in the four first through holes, the locking sleeve resists the four clamping pieces inwardly. The first fastener rotatably connects the locking tube with the first hanging rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Guangdong Kin Long Hardware Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Baokun Bai
  • Patent number: 9340991
    Abstract: The present invention comprises an anchored support to buttress a column, comprising at least one rigid member configured to be coupled to at least one section of a column; and at least an additional rigid member configured to be detachably coupled to the at least one rigid member and configured to be positioned at least partially within a supportive medium, wherein the at least an additional rigid member comprises a structure configured to prevent rotation of the at least an additional member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Shaun Yandell
  • Patent number: 9340992
    Abstract: The present invention is provided with a collapsible mechanism at the top of a collapsible tent, which comprises a top base and at least two sets of supporting pole sets. The top base comprises an upper pivot base, a lower pivot base and a vertical pole to fix the upper pivot base and the lower pivot base; at least two sets of supporting pole sets are connected to the top base and arranged annularly; each of the supporting pole set comprises a sub-pole, a connecting base and a supporting pole, a first end of the sub-pole is pivot joint with the lower pivot base, a second end of the sub-pole is pivot joint with the supporting pole, the connecting base is pivot joint with the upper pivot base, the connecting base is slidably connected to the sub-pole and form a flexible structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Xiamen Roadzup Outdoor Products Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Changjiu Huang
  • Patent number: 9340993
    Abstract: A self-bracing shelter includes a frame and a skin. First and second subframes are arranged in vertical planes, each including first and second feet and a central portion. A ridge beam extends axially between the first and second subframes and includes opposite first and second ends that extend axially beyond the first and second subframes, respectively, such that the opposite ends of the beam are located outside a footprint of a planform defined by the feet of the subframes. A first pair of outer tension members is connected between the first end of the beam and the first subframe on opposite sides of the beam. A second pair of outer tension members is connected between the second end of the beam and the second subframe on opposite sides of the beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: HDT Expeditionary Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David C. Cronk
  • Patent number: 9340994
    Abstract: A portable shelter with low emissivity is provided for sheltering materials or human occupants at a remote location. The shelter has a flexible, multi-layer cover, including a vinyl material, reflective material located inside and immediately adjacent to the vinyl material, and insulation material located inside the reflective material. The low-? vinyl cover is lightweight and thermally efficient. The shelter may be adapted for use with interior-climate control equipment at the remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Alaska Structures, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. Hotes, Michael Vesper
  • Patent number: 9340995
    Abstract: A retractable eave structure of a foldable tent includes a pole assembly having a first end and an opposing second end. The pole assembly first end is pivotally coupled to a hub for pivotal movement between an open state and a folded state of the foldable tent. The pole assembly is retractable such that a length between the first and second ends is adjustable between the open and folded states of the foldable tent. An eave portion of the foldable tent is constructed of tent fabric and fixedly attached to and extends from a main portion of the foldable tent. The eave portion includes an outer perimeter having a housing portion. The outer end of the pole assembly is fixed within the housing portion such that in the open state the pole assembly is extended and the eave portion is substantially taut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Ki Ho Jin
  • Patent number: 9340996
    Abstract: Adjustable strike plate assemblies and systems and methods including the same are disclosed herein. The assemblies include a cover plate that defines a lock-facing side, an opposed striker-facing side, and a striker opening. The assemblies further include a striker that defines a bolt receptacle that is sized to receive a bolt of a lock. The bolt receptacle is aligned within the striker opening to define a bolt-receiving portion of the strike plate assembly. The assemblies further include an alignment structure that aligns the striker with the cover plate to define a plurality of orientations of the bolt receptacle relative to the striker opening. In operation, the striker-facing side of the cover plate generally faces toward the striker and the alignment structure. The assemblies further include a fastening structure that selectively retains the bolt receptacle in a selected orientation of the plurality of orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventor: James Burton Nelson
  • Patent number: 9340997
    Abstract: Lock mounting assemblies are disclosed for storing and mounting a locking apparatus to a transportation device. The mounting assemblies include one or more straps or connectors for securing the mounting assembly to the transportation device. The mounting assemblies having a structure to securely retain the locking apparatus on the transportation device and provide easy access to and release of the locking apparatus from the mounting assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventors: Robert David Zuraski, Daniel Hugh Kindstrand, David Bruce Miller, Alison Jane Donlan, Donald H. Warren, Michael Tintsman, John D. Fiegener, Caitlin A. Thompson, Gregory R. Meyer, Thomas Anthony Gernetzke, William J. Vespa, Matthew Richard Gill, William Liteplo
  • Patent number: 9340998
    Abstract: A lock assembly is disclosed to lock a moveable structure to a fixed structure. The lock assembly includes an electric actuator operable to move a locking lug between first and second axial positions to correspond with a locked and unlocked configuration of the lock assembly. A resilient member can couple the locking lug to the electric actuator and drive the locking lug between the first and second positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Vijayakumar Mani, Prem Ratan Mohan Ram, Abdul Khadar Jailani Mannanayak
  • Patent number: 9340999
    Abstract: A manually driven electronic deadbolt assembly configured with an electromechanical coupling mechanism to selectively couple a manually operable bezel to a torque blade for operation of a deadbolt mechanism. The electro-mechanical coupling mechanism is configured such that in a locked condition the manually operable bezel is drivably decoupled from the torque blade, such that the manually operable bezel is free-spinning when rotated so as to be rendered incapable of rotating the torque blade to operate the deadbolt mechanism. Also, the electro-mechanical coupling mechanism is configured to drivably couple the manually operable bezel to the torque blade when a valid code is input to a code input mechanism to facilitate the unlocked condition, such that a rotation of the manually operable bezel effects a rotation of the torque blade to operate the deadbolt mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Kwikset Corporation
    Inventor: Oscar Romero
  • Patent number: 9341000
    Abstract: A panic lock for building into a door (2) or similar, either as a left lock or a right lock, characterized in that the same lock can be converted to function either as a left lock or a right lock, depending on the desired application, by means of a switching mechanism (29) that is operated by turning the latch bolt (9).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Remi Emiel Van Parys
  • Patent number: 9341001
    Abstract: An inventory control system comprising a dispensing module; a horizontal blocking bar proximate the front portion of the dispensing module; a dispensing module sliding base comprising having a roll pin affixed thereto, and a right side wall having a roll pin affixed thereto; a left rocker arm and a right rocker arm each having a slot; and wherein the roll pin of the left side wall passes through the slot of the left rocker arm and the roll pin of the right side wall passes through the slot of the right rocker arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Robert Baptiste
  • Patent number: 9341002
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a locking system (1) for locking of compartments or boxes including containers to which the access mainly consists of double doors or gates A, B, where the locking system (1) comprises a bar (2), which at one end is fitted with a primarily cylindrical shaft (3) around which the bar (2) can be rotated horizontally and which at the opposite end is fitted with an angled lock cover (12). The locking system (1) further comprises a fitting (4) that can be fitted in gate A, and which can partially enclose the cylindrical shaft (3). The locking system further comprises a fitting (11) that can be fitted in the second gate B, and which covers a lock (22) on four sides and onto which the lock cover (12) can be locked. By using this invention, e.g. containers can be locked effectively and safely.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Mavako ApS
    Inventor: Martin Kongshammer
  • Patent number: 9341003
    Abstract: Illustrative embodiment of latches for storage cases are disclosed. In one illustrative embodiment, a latch may comprise a first component coupled to a first tab extending from a case, where the first component includes a plurality of first engagement sections and each of the plurality of first engagement sections has a first aperture formed therein, a second component including a plurality of second engagement sections, where each of the plurality of second engagement sections has a second aperture formed therein and each of the plurality of first engagement sections is engaged with one of the plurality of second engagement sections such that the first and second apertures are aligned along a common axis, and a hinge pin positioned through the first and second apertures, such that the second component is pivotable about the common axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: Ingersoll-Rand Company
    Inventors: Sean C. Ely, Jefferey C. Yaschur
  • Patent number: 9341004
    Abstract: The invention relates to a dual use cycle accessory which may adopt a first folded configuration in which it forms a mudguard and a second unfolded configuration in which is comprises tow free ends (101, 201) which may be locked together to form a locked loop suitable for locking a cycle, preferably a bicycle, to a stationary object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Patrick Elson
  • Patent number: 9341005
    Abstract: The invention relates to a handle device for a lock unit (7) of a vehicle, comprising a handle part (10) which is movably mounted relative to a door (5) of the vehicle, a locking unit (40) for preventing unintentional opening of the door (5) caused by accelerations acting upon the handle part (10), especially accelerations such as they act upon the vehicle during a crash, the locking unit (40) being displaceable between a locking position (1) and a release position (2), and a movement of the handle part (10) being enabled in the release position (2) and a movement of the handle part (10) being disabled in the locking position (1). The invention is characterized in that an actuating unit (50) is actively connected to the locking unit (40) such that the locking unit (40) can be brought from the locking position (1) into the release position (2) when the actuating unit (50) is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: HUF HULSBECK & FURST GMBH & CO.
    Inventors: Dirk Müller, Mario Christensen, Stefan Mönig, Christof Brauner, Martin Witte, Norbert Heller
  • Patent number: 9341006
    Abstract: A polymeric sash lock including a housing slideably received by a base, the housing defining a pair of rail channels and a cam positioned within the housing. A pair of rails are opposingly mounted on the base for engaging separate rail channels. The base also includes first and second resilient ears mounted in opposing relation along the base for frictionally engaging said housing. A method of locking a window sash is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Barry G. Lawrence
  • Patent number: 9341007
    Abstract: The main features of the structure improvement of attraction plate of electromagnetic doorlock, comprises a positioning assembly positioned on a mounted body at the position close to both ends of the attraction plate, an attraction surface having a recessed portion below the horizontal plane of 0.06 mm to 0.26 mm at a central region thereof, and the recessed portion extending towards both ends to form an arc surface, so that a concave-arc surface is formed with both ends lower than the central region. The present invention uses the concave arc design of the attraction surface to maintain the normal current of the electric magnet while the attraction plate is pulled by the curved internal stress structure for saving energy and enhancing the security access control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Inventor: Yi-Fan Liao