Patents Issued in September 13, 2016
  • Patent number: 9439514
    Abstract: A bed frame wherein the side rail and/or cross rails are fully encased in plastic shields. A plastic shield or shields cover the entire cross sectional area of the side and cross rails so that the side rail and cross rails are easy to handle and esthetically pleasing. The system avoids the need for a person to handle cold, sometimes dirty, steel and the cross and side rails may be T-shaped or L-shaped angle irons, or other configurations and covered with plastic shields. With the plastic shields, the steel members need not be finished since the outer appearance of the steel is encased by the plastic shields and not seen by persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Finger Lakes Intellectual Property LLC
    Inventors: Richard S. Polevoy, Paul Eric Carlson
  • Patent number: 9439515
    Abstract: A sliding device, a baby seat using the sliding device, a back pack, a bag, and a belt back pack are provided, in which a carrier main body for accommodating a baby, a back pack main body for receiving goods, a carrier main body, and a carrier main body are provided in a slidably rotatable manner, and the baby can be taken down even without untying a shoulder string and the goods can be easily taken out. The sliding device includes a zipper connection member, a zipper portion in which zippers are successively engaged with each other in a length direction of the zipper connection member, and a slider engaged with the zipper portion to slidably move along the zipper portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Joung Soo Kim
  • Patent number: 9439516
    Abstract: A child carrier for carrying two children of different sizes has a first and second child carrier portions including first and second carrier pouches, respectively, each pouch attached at its bottom to a waist support, and shoulder straps. The first and second child carrier portions are configured to be secured between the shoulder straps and directly opposite one another. At least one of the child carrier pouches is configured to extend behind the shoulder straps, such that a heavy weight in the opposite child carrier pouch that presses the shoulder straps tightly against a wearer does not compress a child therein against the wearer. Each of the child carrier pouches is curved towards a wearer to prevent a child inserted therein from facing away from the wearer and is configured to hold a child in a seated straddle position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Krystal Workman
  • Patent number: 9439517
    Abstract: This invention relates to a belt strap of high chair for dining, wherein each of two armrests provided on both sides of a chair seat has an accommodation space. A first strap and a second strap are respectively provided in the accommodation spaces of the armrests and are covered by upper lids respectively. The first strap and the second strap are pulled out from through-slot holes opening to outside of the accommodation spaces respectively. A first end of the first strap is combined securely with a first end of the second strap, and a second end of the first strap is combined securely with a second end of the second strap so that the first strap and the second strap are connected integrally with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Jin Sun Gee Plastics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chung-Jen Cheng
  • Patent number: 9439518
    Abstract: A cutlery dispenser comprising a front cover, a housing, and a pushing assembly. The front cover further includes an opening and at least stop. The at least one stop is configured to cause a utensil, such as a knife, fork, spork, or spoon, to fan through the opening for retrieval by a user. The pushing assembly urges the utensils forward in the dispenser toward the stop and toward the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: DIXIE CONSUMER PRODUCTS LLC
    Inventor: Shawn A. Oakes
  • Patent number: 9439519
    Abstract: A free-standing display fixture includes a main body having a top edge, a bottom edge, a right side panel, a center panel and a left side panel. Each of the left side panel, the center panel and the right side panel include interior surfaces and the interior surfaces of the left side panel and the right side panel face each other. Located between and coupled to left side panel and right panel are a plurality of uniquely arranged display components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Target Brands, Inc.
    Inventor: Laura L. Hawkins
  • Patent number: 9439520
    Abstract: A merchandiser for displaying items at an angle with respect to a rear panel of a display fixture is formed from flat sheets. The merchandiser has first and second side panels separated by a bottom panel along first and second fold lines that are generally parallel to each other. The first and second panels are offset from each other and may be folded toward each other to a generally parallel orientation. The merchandiser has tabs extend from a rear thereof that may be received in slots in the rear panel of the fixture to couple the merchandiser thereto. The merchandiser is reversible and may be folded into a functional form which angles to either the right or the left with respect to the panel to which they are coupled to allow customers to easily view the front of items held therein while still maintaining a high density of display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: HALLMARK CARDS, INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Todd E. Berry, Brian Bertram Owens, Joseph G. Blincoe, Jimmy J. D. Leeper, Doug Bazzel
  • Patent number: 9439521
    Abstract: A connector having a plurality of prongs at each end. The prongs can be inserted into portals, such as those of slat board. The connector can be locked in place by angling the prongs into the portals and connecting two parts of the connector to each other, such as by a male and female connector, which lock and affix in place, requiring a tool to remove. A connector arm can also be attached to the connector, extending outwards, such as at an acute angle, to the connector. On this arm, an extension arm can be further attached. Either the connecting arm or extension arm can have portals for a hook or an integrated hook from which merchandise can be hung. Each of the connecting arm, connector, and extension arm can be reversibly or removably attached one to the other by way of a depressible button on one device extending through a portal of another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: THE DISPLAY CONNECTION, INC.
    Inventors: Joseph Casali, Stephen Calabrese
  • Patent number: 9439522
    Abstract: In a personalized band closed by a side release buckle comprising a hook fixedly attached to each end of the band and a double-sided catch for receiving and securing the hooks. A display panel for separately displaying band straps and personalized catches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Heartwood Creations, Inc.
    Inventor: Warren Slabaugh
  • Patent number: 9439523
    Abstract: A closure is for a container, for example a beverage container. In some examples the closure comprises an outer portion connectable to an opening of the container, an axially actuatable inner portion having a sealing member for restricting fluid flow through the closure with the inner portion in a first position and allowing fluid flow through the closure with the inner portion in a second position axially displaced relative to the outer portion, and an annular membrane connecting the outer and inner portions and configured to provide a returning force to resiliently bias the inner portion towards the first position. A beverage container comprises a closure. A method is for operating a closure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: SmartSeal AS
    Inventors: Kjetil Naesje, Kyrre Fredriksen, Rune Knutsen
  • Patent number: 9439524
    Abstract: An anti-spray drinking bottle has a body, a lid, at least one check valve, a dividing mount and a guiding element. The body has a storage recess and a screwing section. The lid is detachably connected to the body and has a threaded segment connected to the screwing section, a buffering segment connected to the threaded segment and a buffering space formed in the buffering segment. The at least one check valve is mounted on the lid. The dividing board is connected to the lid, is mounted in the body and has a dividing board, a sidewall, an outlet pipe and an abutting segment. The guiding element is connected to the dividing mount, is mounted in the body and has an elongate straw tube connected to the outlet pipe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Hsiao-Chen Liang
  • Patent number: 9439525
    Abstract: A cup includes two compartments in a unitary structure: an upper compartment that holds the liquid drink and a lower compartment that has a configured slot to slide onto the edge of a plate. The upper compartment has an open top-end and a closed bottom-end just like any other cup. The open top-end is larger than the closed bottom-end so as to permit stacking multiple cups together. The lower compartment is connected below the closed bottom-end of the first compartment. The second compartment defines a configured slot or cut-out that is shaped to receive the edge of a plate and contact the bottom of the plate. The cut-out starts with a wide slot at the wall of the cup that transitions to a narrow slot within the cup. The narrow slot is intended for the edge of the plate. The wider slot contacts the bottom of the plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Michael Altman
  • Patent number: 9439526
    Abstract: A system for quickly attaching and detaching a coat rod or cargo restraint system to the interior surfaces of an aircraft to optimize the limited space aboard an aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Textron Innovations, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Woodruff, Allan D. Schrag
  • Patent number: 9439527
    Abstract: A hanger for hanging an article from a supporting surface is described. The hanger comprises a base body which includes a vertical axis which, when the base body is disposed on the supporting surface, extends substantially perpendicular to the supporting surface; a catch configured to catch a portion of a handbag for hanging therefrom; an arm connected at one end to the base body and at the other end to the catch, the arm operatively connected to the base body so as to swing about the vertical axis between a stowed position wherein the catch is disposed adjacent a perimeter of the base, and a deployed position wherein the catch is spaced from the base so that it hangs downwardly from the base to support the handbag below the supporting surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Global Shopping Network Pty. Ltd.
    Inventor: Stephane Kljajic
  • Patent number: 9439528
    Abstract: An artificial tree that includes a first trunk body having a first elongated projection that extends axially from a first end toward a second end and forms a first keyway; a first electrical connector anchored within the first end of the first trunk body; a second trunk body, including a second elongated projection that extends axially, the second elongated projection forming a second keyway, the second elongated projection configured to be received by the first keyway; and a second electrical connector anchored within a first end of the second trunk body. The second elongated projection is received by the first keyway, and first and second electrical terminals of the first electrical connector make electrical connection with first and second electrical terminals of the second electrical connector, when the first end of the first trunk body is coupled to the first end of the second trunk body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Willis Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Johnny Chen
  • Patent number: 9439529
    Abstract: A bracket assembly is removably coupleable to a vertical frame member. The assembly includes a central component having interior and exterior sections. The interior section has an inside edge positioned in contact with the frame member. The interior section has first and second apertures. The exterior section has a leg formed as an extension of the interior section. The interior and exterior sections have planar first and second surfaces. The bracket assembly includes first and second side components. Each side component has a middle leg facing the frame member. Each side component has an inner leg in contact with the frame for coupling the assembly to the frame. Each side component has an outer leg in facing contact with the interior section. A coupling assembly includes apertures through the outer leg and fasteners through the apertures. In this manner the side components are coupled to the central components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventors: Donald A. Libertowski, John W. Wills
  • Patent number: 9439530
    Abstract: Intelligent cooking apparatuses incorporate wireless communication technology to carryout cooking procedures. More specifically, stoves, ovens, and cookware may send and receive data wirelessly to carryout cooking procedures. An application may guide persons through recipes and automate many of the cooking procedures. Cookware may send batch information to an application for processing, display, and analysis. Cookware may use hardware for automated cooking actions, such as a magnetic stirrer and driver for stirring the contents in cookware, all monitored by various sensors located in the cookware.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Twin Harbor Labs, LLC
    Inventors: James D Logan, Eric Carr, Richard A Baker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9439531
    Abstract: Shown is a portable beverage apparatus. Also shown is a portable single serve beverage brewing apparatus designed to be used in conjunction with various single serve brewing apparatus or by itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Alan J. Bornt
  • Patent number: 9439532
    Abstract: Various beverage preparation machines having a multi-chambered basket unit are shown. The basket unit can be configured to accept multiple cartridge configurations. For example, some embodiments are configured to receive a first cartridge configuration in a first chamber of the basket unit and a second configuration in a second chamber of the basket unit. In various embodiments, the basket unit can rotate to allow selective accessibility of the first and second chambers. This can facilitate loading the cartridges into the appropriate chamber, such as loading the first cartridge configuration into the first chamber and the second cartridge configuration into the second chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Starbucks Corporation
    Inventors: Alan Scott Crarer, Adam Mekeel Mack, Matthew Thomas James, Philipe Roget Manoux, Diane Chia-Lin Lee, Martin Ruegg
  • Patent number: 9439533
    Abstract: A liquid food of beverage preparation machine that includes an electric supply circuit connectable to an electric power source; a heater powered by the electric supply circuit; and a thermal fuse device in thermal communication with the heater and associated with the electric supply circuit, the fuse device being arranged to interrupt the electric supply circuit from the power source when the heater exceeds a temperature limit. The thermal fuse device is reversible and includes a switch for automatically interrupting the electric supply circuit when the heater exceeds the temperature limit, the switch being operable by a user to close the electric supply circuit when the heater has a temperature that has returned below the temperature limit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Stefan Etter, Urs Gaudenz, Gilles Gavillet, Thomas Hodel, Alexandre Kollep, Peter Möri, Renzo Moser, Peter Preisig, Robin Schwab
  • Patent number: 9439534
    Abstract: The present invention proposes a kit, comprising:—at least a capsule (10) for insertion in a beverage production machine and containing beverage ingredients, the capsule having a cup-like base body (10b) comprising an outlet face (10c), and—one or more beverage production parameter programming connector(s) (1) comprising an identification member (2) placed on a first side (1a) of the connector designed for representing individual information as to beverage production parameters upon mechanical contact by sensing means (8, 18) of a beverage production machine (100), said side being opposite to the second connector side (1b) designed for connection to the outlet face (10c) of the capsule, wherein either the capsule(s) (10) or the connector(s) (1) or the both is provided with means for mechanically associating the connector(1) to the capsule (10) by the consumer, preferably without using tools.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Matthieu Ozanne, Didier Vuagniaux, Alexandre Kollep, Gilles Gerber
  • Patent number: 9439535
    Abstract: Disclosures of roller tube grill temperature control assemblies and methods for human food have a sensing device to fit between a pair of tubes with sides that conform to the tube surface, and an associated temperature-sensing component for detecting the sensing device temperature. An electrical control arrangement in electrical connection with a heating element disposed within a tube can control electricity, with mechanisms to modify the set point. A biasing member biases the sensing device. Such device can also have on or more tube receiving inner openings located between the sides of the device. The sensing device can further be a bushing with one or more generally cylindrical openings to receive roller tube or tubes. The assembly moreover can have an infrared sensing device associated with a tube to sense radiation therefrom for detecting temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Star Manufacturing International Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Huegerich, James G. Luntz
  • Patent number: 9439536
    Abstract: A barbeque grill and oven or food smoker having an offset firebox configuration is disclosed. Example embodiments include: an oven having an enclosed interior region for cooking food items; an offset firebox sharing at least a portion of a side of the oven, the offset firebox having a first opening over which a removable grill may be placed, the firebox having a second opening through which airflow may travel from the firebox into the oven; and an oven lid configured to produce an opening in the top of the oven of any desired site the opening of the oven lid causing an increase in the flow of heated an from the firebox into the oven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Jim Blomberg
  • Patent number: 9439537
    Abstract: An apparatus and process of continuous, filtration of cooking oil during food processing to reduce and control free-fatty-acids and undesirable coloration in the cooking oil, including the movement of oil from a vessel to a flat-bed pressure chamber, where the oil is filtered through a stainless steel mesh screen under pressure. Differential pressure in the chamber causes the system to run the oil to a sister filter chamber which takes over the filter function while the first chamber cleans its filter. The filters are cleaned by inducing a high pressure inert gas into the filter chamber that dries the sediment, and then a mechanical sweep removes the sediment to a waste container. The resulting alternating process of filtering and filter cleaning between two chambers is fully automated and provides filtering that considerably extends oil life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Gary Haddock
  • Patent number: 9439538
    Abstract: A food processing machine, having a jar with a base and at least one sidewall extending upwardly therefrom to define a top opening. A lid has a bottom surface with a downwardly depending sealing wall. An outer surface of the downwardly depending sealing wall corresponds to the top opening. A resiliently collapsible locking ring is removably positionable radially inward from the sealing wall and applies a radially outwardly directed force against the sealing wall when positioned radially inwardly therefrom. The resiliently collapsible locking ring is collapsed and then positioned in a receiving portion radially inward from the sealing wall. The lid is then positioned at the top opening of the jar, with the sealing wall inserted into the top opening. The sealing wall applies a radially outwardly directed force against the at least one wall to seal the lid to the jar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventor: Paul S. Paget
  • Patent number: 9439539
    Abstract: A food processing device includes a dicing kit adapted to be received in a bowl which is coupled to a base. The dicing kit includes a dicing grid disposed within a frame which is coupled to a cover member having a rotating slicing tool disposed there between. The slicing tool is positively captured between the dicing grid frame and the cover member and is further adapted to rotate as powered by a motor disposed in the base portion of the food processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: David J. Gushwa, Zachary A. Lownds, Jeffrey Carl Loebig, Euan Skinner Macleod, Leong Hin Yung, James Fan Zhao, Huang Yong Hang
  • Patent number: 9439540
    Abstract: A potato chip lifting apparatus has a elongated handle with a front side and a back side, the back side having a plurality of catching mechanisms extending from the back side of the elongated handle and away from the elongated handle, the catching mechanisms configured to engage a can in which potato chips are stored. A foot portion is removably and rotatably attached to a bottom portion of the elongated handle, the foot portion movable between a first position and a second position, in the second position the foot portion extends in a direction away from the front side of the handle and generally orthogonal to the elongated handle and the front side thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Donald P. Berry
  • Patent number: 9439541
    Abstract: The present invention provides a ready-to-assemble toilet having excellent strength. The ready-to-assemble toilet includes an outer box member, and first and second inner box members. The outer box member and the inner box members are made of corrugated board or cardboard. The outer box member includes a bottom portion and first to fourth sidewall portions. The inner box members each include first to fourth sidewall portions and a top portion. The height of the inner box members is substantially equal to the height of the outer box member. The first and second inner box members are arranged in the outer box member such that the first sidewall portions thereof respectively face the first and second sidewall portions of the outer box member. The inner box members are spaced apart from each other in the outer box member, and excrement is collected in a space formed therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: DAIKI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Ito, Junji Yoshinaga
  • Patent number: 9439542
    Abstract: A vertical assembling and disassembling mechanism for a toilet seat includes a support, a fixing axle, and a turning member. A pin of the support can be inserted into or pulled out a radial pin hole of the fixing axle. The fixing axle includes a damper therein to connect with the turning member. The fixing axle is formed with a lock hole to receive a lock plate biased by a spring. A turning ring is provided to cooperate with the lock plate. The inner end of the lock plate is engaged with the pin. The inner wall of the turning ring is formed with an inverted step recess. When the turning ring is turned about 90±3 degrees, the outer end of the lock plate is engaged in the inverted step recess and the inner end of the lock plate is disengaged from an annular groove of the pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: HOTI (XIAMEN) PLUMBING INC.
    Inventor: Guobin Chen
  • Patent number: 9439543
    Abstract: A compact, self-contained servicing apparatus for onboard lavatories on private aircraft and other vehicles comprises a reservoir container with a lid coupled to a flexible hose bearing a standard lavatory clean-out coupling on its opposite end. The coupling mates with a clean-out port beneath the lavatory of the vehicle. The hose permits contents of the onboard lavatory to flow under gravity into the container. The device includes a rinse bucket for pouring rinse water through the lavatory and for refilling the lavatory with disinfect and fluid. The device also optionally contains gloves, goggles, towels and other supplies used in the self-service process, and a second lid seals the container for transporting lavatory effluent to a disposal area. In one embodiment, the components of the apparatus nest within the container to form a service kit that stores onboard the vehicle when it is not in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Gerard James Klingman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9439544
    Abstract: A toilet stool table assembly provides a table for a user seated on a toilet seat. The assembly includes a toilet having a base and a toilet bowl being attached to and positioned on the base. The toilet bowl has an upper edge, a front side, a rear side, a first side and a second side. The first and second sides are coupled to and extend between the front and rear sides. A first arm is coupled to the first side of the toilet bowl and extends along the first side of the toilet bowl. The first arm has a first end spaced from a second end. Each of the first and second ends of the first arm is coupled to the first side of the toilet bowl. A panel is coupled to the first arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Anthony J. DeCarlo
  • Patent number: 9439545
    Abstract: A window cleaning apparatus comprises: a first cleaning unit, which is positioned on one side of a window, having at least one built-in first magnetic module comprising a magnet; and a second cleaning unit, which is positioned on the opposite side of the window on which the first cleaning unit is positioned, having at least one built-in second magnetic module, which comprises a magnet having an opposite polarity to the magnetic module of the first cleaning unit so as to generate magnetic attraction with the first magnetic module. The second cleaning unit comprises an induction electricity generating module for generating electricity by inducing the change in the magnetic field emanating from the first magnetic module and/or the second magnetic module into voltage by means of electromagnetic induction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION, YONSEI UNIVERSITY
    Inventors: Yoon Su Baek, Jong Hyun Choi
  • Patent number: 9439546
    Abstract: A cleaning head for a surface cleaning apparatus has a plurality of struts extending from a front chamber having a dirty air inlet to a rear chamber having a transition duct that is in communication with a filtration apparatus of a surface cleaning apparatus by a dirty fluid outlet. One or more of the struts comprises an airflow passage. In one embodiment, no outer casing is provided surrounding the struts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc.
    Inventor: Wayne Ernest Conrad
  • Patent number: 9439547
    Abstract: A cyclonic separator assembly for use with a vacuum cleaner includes a body having an inlet, an outlet, and an inner surface. The cyclonic separator assembly also includes a cyclone unit positioned within the body between the inlet and the outlet. The cyclone unit has an outer perimeter that is spaced apart from the inner surface of the body to define an inlet space therebetween. The cyclone unit includes a plurality of first cyclones in communication with the inlet space and arranged along an outer circle adjacent the outer perimeter. The cyclone unit also includes a plurality of second cyclones in communication with the inlet space and arranged along an inner circle that is spaced apart from the outer circle such that each second cyclone is nested between two adjacent first cyclones. The plurality of first cyclones and the plurality of second cyclones are arranged in parallel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Techtronic Floor Care Technology Limited
    Inventor: Sergey V. Makarov
  • Patent number: 9439548
    Abstract: A vacuum cleaner includes a vacuum component defining an aperture, and a hand vacuum including a removable battery. The hand vacuum is in removable engagement with the vacuum component, and the battery is removable from the hand vacuum through the aperture while the hand vacuum remains in engagement with the vacuum component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Steven Jenson
  • Patent number: 9439549
    Abstract: A dispersible, nonwoven multistrata wipe material that is stable in a wetting liquid and flushable in use is provided. More particularly, the materials are layered structures including, but not limited to, one, two, three, or four layers to form the dispersible nonwoven wipe material. The layers contain cellulosic fibers and a binder or additive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Georgia-Pacific Nonwovens LLC
    Inventors: Jacek K. Dutkiewicz, Brian Fong
  • Patent number: 9439550
    Abstract: The invention relates to a one-piece foam construct reversibly assembled by at least one binder, as well as the methods of making and assembling said one-piece foam construct. The construct is meant for use as a cleaning implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Diversified Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Wayne Celia
  • Patent number: 9439551
    Abstract: A reusable fluid dispensing system comprising a fluid dispensing head with a descending dip tube having an end and a container for holding fluid that is detachably connected to the fluid dispensing head. The container has a bottom that has a single lower recess region to receive the dip tube end, a detachable base member defining at least one region and, within that region, at least one accessory. The accessory is from a group consisting of a funnel for use in dispensing fluid concentrate and dilution fluid in to the container, a reusable non-paper sheet-like or pad-like element for smoothly spreading dispensed fluid onto a surface or scouring or polishing the surface, and concentrate for making the fluid when dissolved in dilution fluid. In addition, methods of use are taught.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventors: Lucas James Atkinson, Christopher Alton Horne
  • Patent number: 9439552
    Abstract: A dishwasher for treating dishes according to a cycle of operation includes a tub having an open face, a door selectively moveable to open and close the open face, and comprising spaced interior and exterior panels having peripheral edges that are coupled along at least a portion of the peripheral edges by a peripheral wall to collectively define a door interior, and a controller mounting bracket located within the door interior.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Marcus R. Fischer, Daniel W. Southworth, Anthony B. Welsh
  • Patent number: 9439553
    Abstract: A portable washing and drying apparatus useful for washing and drying baby bottle components and other baby-feeding accessories in limited spaces. The apparatus has a flexible membrane to place baby-feeding accessories so that the apparatus can lie in sink basins that have a variety of sizes and shapes. The membrane has a plurality of interspersed holes and a plurality of projections to hold accessories. The membrane may have vertical partitions that separate the flexible membrane into drying and washing regions. The membrane is supported by at least two frame members secured to opposing sides of the membrane and can be spatially adjusted from each other. In one configuration, the frame members have hooks that extend therefrom and attach to an external support, such as a towel bar. In another configuration, the frame members are connected by a chain and hook, so that the apparatus can hang from a shower rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Inventor: Niloufar Gabbay
  • Patent number: 9439554
    Abstract: An endoscope which is configured to be connected to an external processing device includes: an insertion part; a distal end part including an imaging unit configured to generate image information and an E/O converter configured to convert the image information into an optical signal and to output the converted optical signal; a connector part including an O/E converter configured to convert the optical signal into an electric signal, a first output unit configured to convert the electric signal into serial data and to output the converted serial data to the processing device, a second output unit configured to convert the electric signal into an optical signal and to output the converted optical signal to the processing device, and a selector configured to select one of the first output unit and the second output unit; and an optical fiber connecting the E/O converter to the O/E converter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Usami
  • Patent number: 9439555
    Abstract: A flexible endoscope insertion tube having at least one working channel extending in the axial direction of the flexible tube. One or more liners are in coaxial alignment with the distal end working channel of the tube. At least one ceramic tip liner may be disposed on the interior distal end of the endoscope working channel which protects the working channel from operational wear and tear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Karl Storz Endovision, Inc.
    Inventor: Guy E. Horne, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9439556
    Abstract: A system for autonomous camera control includes a first robot having a surgical tool mounted as an end effector and a second robot having a camera mounted as an end effector. A controller may be provided for manipulating the second robot, where the controller stores a first kinematic model for the first robot and a second kinematic model for the second robot. The controller may be configured to automatically manipulate the second robot to position the camera based on the second kinematic model and an expected position of the surgical tool according the first kinematic model of the first robot. The controller is further configured to identify a threshold angle from a viewing axis of the camera, calculate a tool angle from the viewing axis of the camera, and move the camera toward or further away from the tool depending on if the tool angle is greater than or less than the threshold angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Wayne State University
    Inventors: Abhilash Pandya, Michael D. Klein, Ajay V. Mudunuri, Alex Cao, Luke Reisner, Brady King, Syed Ali
  • Patent number: 9439557
    Abstract: In one aspect, the present invention is an articulation joint for use in a low cost medical device such as an endoscope intended for a single use. In one embodiment, the articulation joint comprises a plurality of interconnected segments. In another embodiment, the articulation joint comprises an elongated tubular body. In another aspect, the present invention provides methods of manufacturing an articulation joint for use in a medical device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.
    Inventor: Dennis R. Boulais
  • Patent number: 9439558
    Abstract: A body-introducable apparatus includes: a light source unit having a first light source that outputs first light and a second light source that outputs second light in a wavelength band different from that of the first light; a light distribution matching unit that matches distributions of the first light and the second light; an illuminating control unit that illuminates the inside of the subject by driving the light source unit; and an imaging unit that captures an image of the inside of the subject.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tetsuo Minai, Shinsuke Tanaka, Tatsuya Orihara, Yutaka Koshikawa, Kazuaki Tamura, Takeshi Mori
  • Patent number: 9439559
    Abstract: An image pickup device constituted by a bare chip is mounted to a flexible substrate including an opening portion and a wiring pattern, so that a light receiving area is positioned at the opening portion and so as to be electrically connected to the wiring pattern. A rigid substrate having a concave portion capable of housing the image pickup device is connected to the flexible substrate. A bottom face of the concave portion is set as a reference face for regulating the optical axis direction of the image pickup device, and a rear face of the image pickup device is firmly fixed to the bottom face. A wiring pattern is provided on the rigid substrate, and the wiring pattern of the rigid substrate and the wiring pattern of the flexible substrate are electrically connected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Yukiharu Makino
  • Patent number: 9439560
    Abstract: A laryngoscope includes an arm and a handle. The arm is configurable between at least a first and a second position. A first blade sheath secures over the arm in the first position and a second blade sheath secures over the arm in the second position. A method of configuring a laryngoscope includes configuring a laryngoscope arm into a first position or a second position and securing a selected blade sheath to the arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: CAREFUSION CORPORATION
    Inventors: Jukka Antti Petteri Hakanen, Alan George Furler, Jeremy Michael Ross, Petri Tapio Pikkarainen, Lauri Artturi Lumme, Mika Kristian Henriksson
  • Patent number: 9439561
    Abstract: Methods and systems for obtaining an ocular aberration measurement of an eye of a patient are provided. Exemplary techniques involve obtaining a first induced metric for the eye that corresponds to a first accommodation state of the eye, obtaining a second induced metric for the eye that corresponds to a second accommodation state of the eye, and determining a natural metric of the eye based on the first and second induced metrics. An induced metric may include a pupil size or a spherical aberration. Techniques can also include determining a target metric for the eye base on the natural metric, determining whether an actual metric of the eye meets the target metric, obtaining an ocular aberration measurement of the eye if the actual metric meets the target metric, and determining a treatment for the eye based on the ocular aberration measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: AMO Development, LLC
    Inventors: Guang-ming Dai, Leander Zickler
  • Patent number: 9439562
    Abstract: A diagnosis support apparatus comprises an acquiring unit that acquires a plurality of examination data items having different examination dates, a setting unit that sets an extraction condition for examination data items, an extracting unit that extracts, from the plurality of acquired examination data items, examination data items corresponding to the set extraction condition, and a displaying unit that arranges and displays the extracted examination data items, wherein the setting unit sets the extraction condition based on an interval between examination dates of examination data items.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Katsutoshi Natsuhori, Shigeaki Ono, Yukio Sakagawa, Hiroki Uchida
  • Patent number: 9439563
    Abstract: Methods and systems for determining an individual gaze value are disclosed herein. An exemplary method involves: (a) receiving gaze data for a first wearable computing device, wherein the gaze data is indicative of a wearer-view associated with the first wearable computing device, and wherein the first wearable computing device is associated with a first user-account; (b) analyzing the gaze data from the first wearable computing device to detect one or more occurrences of one or more advertisement spaces in the gaze data; (c) based at least in part on the one or more detected advertisement-space occurrences, determining an individual gaze value for the first user-account; and (d) sending a gaze-value indication, wherein the gaze-value indication indicates the individual gaze value for the first user-account.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2016
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: Eric Teller