Patents Issued in October 4, 2016
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Patent number: 9458576Abstract: A precast roadway slab is pre-tensioned longitudinally and transversely, and may also be post-tensioned. A casting bed has the capability of permitting pre-tensioning of a concrete cast to be carried out within the casting bed in both the longitudinal direction and in the transverse direction. Slots are provided at regular intervals within the side walls and jacking heads of the casting bed for tensioning wires to pass therethrough for pre-tensioning. The process utilizes a multilayer grid of pre-tensioning wires disposed within the casting bed, prior to pouring of the concrete. The cast concrete product can also be made with optional tubular ducts, laid parallel to the longitudinal wires, for post-tensioning subsequent to the cast of the concrete. The post-tensioning of the hardened cast, if called for, takes place at the job site.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: CON-FAB CALIFORNIA CORPORATIONInventor: Philip French
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Patent number: 9458577Abstract: A method of building a pavement includes preparing an asphalt agglomerate support layer upon a substrate to be paved. A thermoplastic liquid resin layer is formed on the asphalt agglomerate support layer. A plurality of tiles is placed on the thermoplastic liquid resin layer, wherein each tile includes at least one thermoplastic resin and at least one aggregate. The plurality of tiles is covered with a layer of finish.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: ZORUTEK, S.L.L.Inventor: Carlos Rodriguez Martin
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Patent number: 9458578Abstract: A timber access mat having an electrical grounding feature includes an electrically conductive cover layer that is removably carried over the top of the body of the timber access mat. The electrically conductive cover layer can be formed from one or more sheets of expanded metal such as expanded steel. The layer is joined to a perimeter frame that includes offset connector tabs that allow mats to be positioned side-by-side. The connector tabs are paired with cable guides to protect the cable leads that connect the mats. The perimeter frame and conductive cover layer can be added to traditional timber access mats when electrical grounding is required and then removed and stored when not required.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Erik D. Klein
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Patent number: 9458579Abstract: Provided are artificial turf with which a temperature alleviation effect can be sustained over an extended period and which is easily maintained, and an artificial turf facility wherein the artificial turf is laid. A first pile (41), and a second pile (42) which comprises a water absorbent void therein which absorbs water, which configure the artificial turf, are placed mixed among each other in a base fabric (31) at a prescribed proportion.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2012Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: SUMITOMO RUBBER INDUSTRIES, LTD.Inventor: Takeshi Ishimaru
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Patent number: 9458580Abstract: A compaction roller comprises a vibration device for generating vibrations when driven by a vibration motor; a pair of right and left traveling drive shafts, while traveling driving outside tires and their adjoining inside tires synchronously, for transmitting the vibrations of the vibration device to the outside tires and inside tires; a pair of right and left traveling motors respectively for driving their associated traveling drive shafts; and, a pair of right and left first support brackets mounted through a first vibration proof device 6 on a vehicle body and interposed between the outside tires and inside tires for supporting the traveling drive shafts through bearings, wherein the vibration device includes a vibration source disposed within the traveling drive shafts. According to the compaction roller, a side overhang can be eliminated or reduced, and enabling prevention of the lowered vibration compacting function of the tires.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Sakai Heavy Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Sadayoshi Suzuki, Hiroaki Neko, Akira Mitsui
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Patent number: 9458581Abstract: A multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) computer control system in a heavy equipment machine is in communication with multiple sensors in order to measure deviations from a path to be followed. Sensor corrections are applied to return the heavy equipment machine to a path to be followed or to restrain the machine from deviating from the path to be followed. Sensor corrections affect a controlled variable, such as cross-slope. Sensor corrections may account for false positives and false negatives. Sensor corrections are applied to the heavy equipment machine using a gain matrix (G). The multiple vectors of gain values comprising the gain matrix (G) are utilized by the MIMO computer control system to simultaneously and proportionally actuate each drive leg of the machine to obtain a desired grade including a compensated slope and/or elevation.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: GOMACO CorporationInventor: Chad Schaeding
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Patent number: 9458582Abstract: A ferry bridge having two sets of posts anchored on either side of a thoroughfare, support at height a deck over which a carriage moves, wherein a pod is suspended from said carriage for providing the transport of vehicles and passengers between two ferry docks on either side of said thoroughfare, the platform of said pod being divided into a central area dedicated to the transport of vehicles and two side areas dedicated to the transport of passengers. the entrances to the passenger transport areas are arranged on the outer lateral sides of the pod relative to the axis of movement (A) of the pod. The entrances to the vehicle transport area are arranged on the sides opposite said lateral sides, and the ferry docks for the pod comprise a means for separating the vehicles and the passengers into two streams directed toward the specific entrances thereof, respectively.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2011Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignees: SOLETANCHE FREYSSINET, NANTAISE DES PONTS ET PYLONES INTERNATIONALInventors: Paul Poirier, Timothée Paulin, Xavier De Champs
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Patent number: 9458583Abstract: An energy absorbing system with one or more energy absorbing assemblies is provided to reduce or eliminate severity of a collision between a moving vehicle and a roadside hazard. The energy absorbing system may be installed adjacent various roadside hazards or may be installed on highway service equipment. One end of the system may face oncoming traffic. A collision by a motor vehicle with a sled assembly may result in shredding or rupturing of portions of an energy absorbing element to dissipate energy from the vehicle collision.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Exodyne Technologies Inc.Inventor: James R. Albritton
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Patent number: 9458584Abstract: A perimeter security barrier 1for restraining a vehicle impacting the barrier from a direction substantially perpendicular thereto is described. The barrier comprises a pair of spaced apart end posts 3, 5 rigidly fixed in the ground and intermediate posts 11a, 11c. . . disposed between the end posts are also fixed in the ground. At least one pair of wire ropes 15c, 15d is supported between the end posts and optionally woven around the intermediate posts, the ropes being secured at each end to respective end posts. Energy absorption means 21 is provided at each end for absorbing energy transmitted by the ropes from the impacting vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2008Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Hill & Smith LimitedInventor: Michael Thomas Titmus
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Patent number: 9458585Abstract: A device for spreading a granular material over a road surface. The device includes a hopper fillable with the granular material and an agitating member configured to discharge the granular material from an outlet of the hopper. A brush is aligned with the outlet of the hopper and includes a plurality of bristles configured to inhibit leakage of the granular material from the outlet of the hopper during stoppage of the agitating member. Also provided are a system in which the spreader device is mounted on a vehicle, and a method of operating the spreader device.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: THE TORO COMPANYInventor: Jen Phelps
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Patent number: 9458586Abstract: Apparatus and methods for securing a fairing around a marine element. The apparatus can include first and second opposing sides, and a third side extending between the first and second sides. An attachment mechanism can extend from the third side, and is configured to interlock with a corresponding attachment mechanism of an opposing connector to secure the fairing around a marine element.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: ASSET INTEGRITY MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS, L.L.C.Inventors: Rodney H. Masters, Billy L. Griffith
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Patent number: 9458587Abstract: Soil erosion in, among other areas, seaside locations, is prevented by the steps of: drilling holes in the ground; filling these holes with a mixture of the soil and gelatin, then curing the mixture in situ to form a barrier against soil erosion. The holes form stabilization walls and are placed seaside to a structure to be protected from erosion.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventors: Nicholas Ford, Gavin Garland, Randy Garland, Albert Kim, Ian Lindberg, John Lindberg, Michael Mirabito, Michael Nogaj, Thomas Rafferty, Rahul Rangarajan, Michael Shepherd
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Patent number: 9458588Abstract: A buoyant flood guard barrier panel passively buoyantly rotationally pivotable upward from horizontal about a first horizontal axis overlays a subframe unattached to the panel. A secondary mechanism for raising the panel has one or more lift arms below the panel transverse to the first axis are rotationally mounted on a second horizontal axis parallel to, below and forward of the first axis. One or more powered drivers act on one or more driven member units each attached to a lift arm rearward of and lower than the second axis to pivot the lift arm on the second axis, rotating the arm upwardly under the panel to rotationally raise the panel. The powered driver may be a winch or a hydraulic actuator.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Floodbreak, LLCInventor: Louis A. Waters, Jr.
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Patent number: 9458589Abstract: The present disclosure is directed towards a scour remediation and mitigation apparatus (100) comprising a plurality of channelled members (108) whereby the channelled members (108) are bound together to form the scour remediation and mitigation apparatus (100). The plurality of channelled members (108) each comprising at least one through hole (105) which forms a channel (105) through the channeled member (108). The plurality of channelled members (108) are bound together such that a plurality of conduits are formed by the channels (105) of the channeled members (108) and by voids (107) intermediate adjacent channelled members (108) within the scour remediation and mitigation apparatus (100). These plurality of conduits allow passage of a moving fluid through the scour remediation and mitigation apparatus (100) whilst simultaneously causing dispersion of kinetic energy of the moving fluid as it passes through the scour remediation and mitigation apparatus (100).Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: SWAN NET-GUNDRY LIMITEDInventors: Jonathan Francis Gallagher, William Austin Wilcox
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Patent number: 9458590Abstract: A floodwater barrier for protecting the shore side of a shoreline from flooding includes at least one self-actuating floodwater barrier unit for installation between a pair of walls transverse to a shoreline. The unit includes a flexible resilient panel, a plurality of rigid members connected to the panel, at least one watertight chamber of size and arrangement to give the unit water buoyancy, hinged to be rotatable upward about a horizontal axis longitudinal to the shoreline under the influence of buoyancy and hydrostatic pressure from a rise of the body of water acting on the unit, and further includes flexible tension members positioned to act on the floodwater barrier unit to limit upward rotation of the unit to a predetermined extent.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Floodbreak, LLCInventor: Louis A. Waters, Jr.
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Patent number: 9458591Abstract: Disclosed are piling apparatus and methods for installing a reinforced concrete piling apparatus into the ground without the use of a pile driver or an auger. A helical screw anchor and coupling device are used to pull pipe sections into the ground. A preassembled reinforcing rod cage is placed into the pipe sections in the ground. Wet concrete is poured into the pipe sections to encase the reinforcing rod cage. The pipe sections are then removed. Removal of the pipe sections from the helical screw anchor is accomplished using the coupling device.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: HELI-CRETE ECO-FRIENDLY PILING SYSTEMS, LLCInventors: Thomas B. Watson, III, Kenneth L. Vanpolen
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Patent number: 9458592Abstract: The invention relates to a method for anchoring a structure in a bed of a body of water comprising the method steps of introducing at least one screw anchor into the bed of the body of water, arranging and fastening a base element on the fastening section of the screw anchor, wherein the base element has a holder for the structure, and arranging and fastening the structure on the holder of the base element. Furthermore, the invention relates to an underwater foundation produced by this method.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: BAUER MASCHINEN GmbHInventors: Stefan Michael Finkenzeller, Juergen Klippenstein
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Patent number: 9458593Abstract: A method is provided for using low-overhead equipment to construct a deep piling foundation for an existing building. The method involves lifting the existing building to a predetermined elevation above grade and positioning cribbing stacks to support the existing building at the predetermined elevation above grade. The cribbing stacks are spaced from each other enabling low-overhead equipment to maneuver underneath the elevated building to drill drive pipe piles at designated locations to provide optimal support for the building. Grout is pumped under pressure into the pipe piles continuously during the drill driving of the pipe piles so that grout exits through a grout port to mix with disturbed soil about the pipe pile to encase the pipe pile in a grout-soil mixture. Pile caps are attached to each pipe pile and secured to the existing building so that the existing building is supported by an array of the deeply driven pipe piles which serve as the foundation for the building.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Glen G. Hale
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Patent number: 9458594Abstract: A retaining wall system for mechanically stabilizing an earthen wall is provided. The system comprises a plurality of modular block members that may be assembled in a number of desired states or orientations. Tieback members for supporting the wall and related fill are provided and the wall comprises interconnection members for the tieback members.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Oldcastle Precast, Inc.Inventors: Clinton Brookhart, Robinson Usagani
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Patent number: 9458595Abstract: The heavy duty a vent cap system includes a top plate with a bucket interface, a center stem assembly, a retainer assembly, a bottom plate with a stem sleeve and guiding device, an adapter ring, a plurality of perimeter stem assemblies and a plurality of perimeter installation stems. A remote operated vehicle engages the bucket interface to rotate a center stem member in the center stem assembly. A threaded portion of the center stem assembly engages a stem nut in the retainer assembly. The rotation along threads of the stem nut held within the retainer assembly actuates the bottom plate between opened and closed positions. The bottom plate maintains alignment to the top plate and adapter ring and resists cocking and distortion. The bottom plate seals to a connection portion of the adapter ring in any orientation of the heavy duty vent cap system, ranging from vertical to horizontal.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Austin Mohrfeld
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Patent number: 9458596Abstract: An industrial machine includes a frame, an elongated member, an attachment, a plurality of fluid lines, and a cartridge. The frame includes a boom and a fluid source. The elongated member is movably coupled to the boom and includes a first end and a second end. The attachment is pivotably coupled to the first end of the elongated member. The plurality of fluid lines is coupled to the second end of the elongated member and is in fluid communication with the fluid source. The cartridge is removably coupled to the elongated member. The cartridge includes a housing and a plurality of conduits supported within the housing. The conduits are in fluid communication with the plurality of lines.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Harnischfeger Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Christopher S. Jones
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Patent number: 9458597Abstract: A control system includes: a control valve control unit that controls a control valve; a data acquisition unit that acquires data on an operation command value and a cylinder speed in a state where an operation command for operating a hydraulic cylinder is output; and a deriving unit that derives operation characteristics in an operation direction of each of a plurality of hydraulic cylinders in relation to the operation command value based on the data acquired by the data acquisition unit. In acquisition of the data by the data acquisition unit, the control valve control unit controls a control valve of one pilot oil passage that is an acquisition object where the data is acquired among the plurality of pilot oil passages to open one pilot oil passage and controls control valves of the other pilot oil passages to close the other pilot oil passages.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Kmoatsu Ltd.Inventors: Katsuhiro Ikegami, Satoshi Ito, Akinori Baba
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Patent number: 9458598Abstract: There is provided a work vehicle in which sudden operation of a work implement can be suppressed. 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 a boom is forcibly raised in accordance with a relative position of the cutting edge to the design surface, and the position of the cutting edge is restricted to an upper part of the design surface. In a state 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: GrantFiled: April 24, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.Inventors: Takeshi Takaura, Yoshiki Kami, Jin Kitajima
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Patent number: 9458599Abstract: A tandem system having multiple fluid powered cylinders for operation of motor graders and other earth-moving equipment that is capable of interfacing with and being controlled by conventional two dimensional (“2-D”) and three dimensional (“3-D”) grade control systems, responds to encountered grade changes and adjusts elevation and a cross-slope to match predetermined project design specifications. Each cylinder member has at least one master area and at least one slave area.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Gregory P. Costello
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Patent number: 9458600Abstract: A method or system for controlling a vehicle comprises entering a programming mode or a guidance mode based on user input to a switch. The user can enter a guidance program in accordance with a predetermined sequence of inputs of the switch by the user, where readiness for each successive input is indicated by a light source. A guidance mode is managed for controlling an implement height in accordance with the entered guidance program. A height sensor can sense an observed height or elevation of an implement of the vehicle (e.g., relative to the absolute target height of the implement above the ground). The observed height is controlled in accordance with the guidance program (e.g., the target height) if the system or the data processor is operating in a guidance mode.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: DEERE & COMPANYInventors: Frederick W. Nelson, Timothy A. Wilcox, Peter W. Kasap, Darin E. Bartholomew
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Patent number: 9458601Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a tool to a powered vehicle including a support frame, at least one mounting bracket, a threaded shaft, and a carriage assembly. At least one mounting bracket extends from the support frame and is configured to mount to the powered vehicle. The threaded shaft has a first end journaled to the support frame and a second end journaled to the support frame. The carriage assembly has a plurality of connectors and is movingly connected to the support frame and the threaded shaft.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Duane G. Shipman
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Patent number: 9458602Abstract: A dual-arm work machine includes: a first front working machine to which a first attachment is mounted; a second working machine to which a second attachment is mounted; a first drive device that drives the first front working machine and the first attachment based on a first drive command from a first operation member; a second drive device that drives the second front working machine and the second attachment based on a second drive command from a second operation member; and a drive command output device that inputs the first and second drive commands, and generates and outputs a shared drive command that drives the first and second drive devices.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kunitsugu Tomita, Akinori Ishii
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Patent number: 9458603Abstract: A level selecting unit is a device for selecting a tractive force level from a plurality of levels when a velocity stage of a transmission is a first velocity. The plurality of levels includes at least a first level and a second level. A control unit controls the engine. When the velocity stage of the transmission is the first velocity and the first level is selected, the control unit controls the engine on the basis of a first tractive force characteristic. The first tractive force characteristic prescribes a relationship between the vehicle speed and the tractive force of the vehicle. When the velocity stage of the transmission is the first velocity and the second level is selected, the control unit controls the engine on the basis of a second tractive force characteristic. The tractive force is reduced more in the second tractive force characteristic than in the first tractive force characteristic.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: KOMATSU LTD.Inventor: Ryota Enomoto
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Patent number: 9458604Abstract: A hydraulic apparatus and a method of operating the hydraulic apparatus are disclosed. The hydraulic apparatus includes a flow control module, a first pump fluidly coupled to the flow control module via a first conduit, a first rotating group fluidly coupled to the flow control module via a second conduit, a first actuator fluidly coupled to the flow control module, a second actuator fluidly coupled to a second pump, a first accumulator, and a controller operatively coupled to the flow control module, the first charge valve, and the discharge valve. The first rotating group is configured to perform a pumping function and a motor function. The first accumulator is in selective fluid communication with the first actuator via a third conduit and a first charge valve, the second actuator via a fourth conduit and the first charge valve, and the first rotating group via a discharge valve.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Jiao Zhang, Michael Schwab, Pengfei Ma
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Patent number: 9458605Abstract: A work vehicle including a front work device, contains: a variable displacement hydraulic pump that is driven by an engine and supplies pressure oil to an actuator that drives the front work device; an exhaust gas purification device that purifies nitrogen oxide in exhaust gas discharged from the engine using a reducing agent solution stored in a reducing agent tank; a remaining amount detection device that detects a remaining amount of the reducing agent solution in the reducing agent tank; and a control unit that decreases output torque of the engine and also decreases a rotational speed of the engine in a rated point according to decrease of the remaining amount of the reducing agent solution detected by the remaining amount detection device.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignees: Hitachi Construction Machinery Co., Ltd., KABUSHIKI KAISHA KCMInventors: Koji Hyodo, Takashi Takeyama, Tetsuji Tanaka, Isamu Aoki, Katsutaka Hara, Tatsuo Oouchi
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Patent number: 9458606Abstract: A boom apparatus comprises a boom structure, at least one flexible line, a fluid cylinder, and a barrier. The boom structure comprises a first boom and a second boom attached pivotally to the first boom. The at least one flexible line extends along the boom apparatus. The fluid cylinder is attached pivotally to the first boom and the second boom. The fluid cylinder comprises an end portion pinned to the second boom. The barrier is positioned between the end portion and the second boom. The at least one flexible line is routed externally of the second boom through a passageway positioned between the barrier and the second boom such that the barrier spaces the at least one flexible line apart from the end portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: DEERE & COMPANYInventors: Steven J. Ditzler, Peter D. Zach, James F. O'Halloran, Jonathan R. Hunt
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Patent number: 9458607Abstract: A rotatable cutting tool for use in impinging earth strata wherein the rotatable cutting tool comprises a cutting tool body and a hard tip affixed to the cutting tool body. The cutting tool body includes an axial forward end for receiving the hard tip and an axial rearward end, a head portion axially rearward of the axial forward end, a collar portion axially rearward of the head portion, and a shank portion axially rearward of the collar portion and axially forward of the axial rearward end. The head portion includes a plurality of elongated projections extending radially thereabout, each of the elongated projections including a first tapered side and a second tapered side. The first tapered side of each of the elongated projections adjoins the second tapered side of an adjacent elongated projection at a surface of the head portion.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2010Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: KENNAMETAL INC.Inventors: Chad Allen Swope, Seth Daniel Colvin
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Patent number: 9458608Abstract: An automatic water shut-off and notification system for interfacing with a water valve and an existing security system having a security system control panel and at least one water sensor connected wired or wirelessly on a zone of the security system control panel, the automatic water shut-off and notification system comprising a control module, the control module comprising: a trig input terminal configured for connection with an output terminal of the security system control panel; a valve control terminal and a valve power terminal configured for connection with the water valve; and a processor connected to the trig input terminal and the valve control and valve power terminals, the processor configured to act on a detection signal received at the trig input terminal indicating water detection by the at least one water sensor to activate the water valve.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Flood Sentry, LLCInventor: John David Chevalier
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Patent number: 9458609Abstract: A device for flushing a hydrant includes a stem connected to a valve of the hydrant; and an actuation system including a biased translational system coupled to the stem. An actuation system for flushing a hydrant includes a fluid; a piston assembly movable by the fluid; and a biasing element at least indirectly biasing the piston assembly towards a stop position. A method of flushing a hydrant includes operating an actuation system coupled to the hydrant, the actuation system including a stored energy device, a piston assembly coupled to a stem of the hydrant; and a biasing element coupled to the stem, the stem connected to a valve of the hydrant; and opening the valve of the hydrant by releasing energy from the stored energy device against a piston plate of the piston assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Mueller International, LLCInventors: Leo W. Fleury, Jr., Normand James Roy, James Ola Williams, Kenneth A. Clark, Edward C. Parish
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Patent number: 9458610Abstract: A plumbing connector for the outlet portion of a toilet water input hose is disclosed. The plumbing connector may have a circular body (e.g., cylindrical body) having multiple flanges radially extending from the circular body. One or more of the flanges may each define at least one pyramidal recess or slot thereby reducing the cross-sectional area of a portion of each of the one or more flanges. As a result, the one or more flanges are configured to separate (e.g., break away) from the circular body at the reduced cross-sectional area portion of each of the one or more flanges to prevent a user from over-tightening (e.g., over-torqueing) the plumbing connector.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Homewerks Worldwide, LLCInventor: Michael Malaker
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Patent number: 9458611Abstract: A method and a fluid tap device for retaining the temperature of a liquid, in a liquid distribution system having at least one liquid conduit extending from a liquid source to a liquid tap. After completion of a tapping operation and replacing the liquid with gas in the conduit, the refilling of liquid in the conduit is performed in three steps: a first step, initiated by activating the tap thereby causing a change of a physical variable which propagates backwards along the conduit and initiates a second step, the second step involving refilling the conduit with liquid from the source, while permitting remaining gas to escape via a gas passage separate from a liquid passage in the tap, and a third step, initiated when the liquid reaches the tap, involving opening the passage and permitting the liquid to flow out via the passage and through the tap.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2012Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: 3EFLOW ABInventor: Erik Abbing
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Patent number: 9458612Abstract: An electronic faucet is provided comprising a spout; a fluid supply conduit supported by the spout; a valve assembly including a solenoid valve positioned to control fluid flow through the fluid supply conduit, the solenoid valve including a solenoid coil and a moveable valve member operably coupled to the solenoid coil; and a controller operative to control the solenoid valve, the controller including a circuit board coupled to the valve assembly and a processor mounted to the circuit board to control the solenoid valve, the solenoid coil being mounted to the circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Delta Faucet CompanyInventors: Kurt J. Thomas, Derek A. Brown, Joel D. Sawaski
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Patent number: 9458613Abstract: In one aspect, a waste disposal for processing waste may generally include a motor, a cutter plate coupled to the motor for rotation therewith and a housing configured to encase the motor and the cutter plate. The housing may include an upper housing portion and a lower housing portion. The upper housing portion may define an inner surface at least partially forming a converging section of the upper housing portion. Additionally, waste disposal may include a plurality of ribs projecting outwardly from the inner surface along the converging section of the upper housing portion.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Emil Gormley, Raymond James VanAssche, Wilbur Carl Bewley, Jr.
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Patent number: 9458614Abstract: A water conservation fixture system comprises a handle lock assembly configured for placement on a handle of a fixture and at least one other structure selected from a fixture drain insert trap assembly, a fixture screen and combinations of both. The handle lock assembly comprises a top component and at least one locking arm pivotally attached to the top component, and the locking arm further comprising a locking element for releasably locking with a mating locking element on the top component. The fixture system may be integrated into existing fixture to significantly reduce or control water usage or otherwise convert the fixture to a low-water or no-water fixture without having to replace the current water-based fixture. The fixture system may also be integrated into new fixtures with corresponding mating features to optimize fit and function of the system with the new fixture.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: XELA INNOVATIONS, LLCInventors: Todd J. Muderlak, Kenneth J. Muderlak
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Patent number: 9458615Abstract: The present invention relates to a automated spraying device for spraying an enclosure with a liquid cleanser, the device having,—a reservoir (16) for containing the liquid cleanser,—a pump (14) in fluid communication with the reservoir, and—a movable spray head (15) having an outlet orifice through which cleanser from the reservoir can be expelled during operation of the pump if there is such liquid cleanser in the reservoir. Said spraying device also contains an electrical motor drive mechanism (12) for sequentially operating th pump (14) and moving the spray head (15) to modify the direction of the spray there from, such that the spray head is not simultaneously spraying and moving. Furthermore, the spray head is suitable for producing an aerosol whereby the Dv50 of the aerosol is in the range of from 30 to 70 micron.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2012Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Conopco, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Chace Carpenter, Kenneth Allen Focht, Federico Pasquini, Davide Pietrasanta, Andrea Dias Sorze
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Patent number: 9458616Abstract: A modular design for a floor sink frame and grate assembly. The standard floor grate sizes are whole, one half, and three-quarter. Instead of stocking each of these sizes, the present invention provides a modular system where individual pieces can be stocked and combined to form all of the above configurations.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2012Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: MIFAB, Inc.Inventor: Michael James Whiteside
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Patent number: 9458617Abstract: A sump pump assembly with a basin, a first shelf fixedly position in a lower end of the basin, a lid for securing to an upper end of the basin, the lid having a transparent window for viewing a water level in the basin, a light mounted within the basin for assisting in viewing the water level, a first pump positioned on a floor of the basin, a second pump positioned on the first shelf, and an alarm for notifying a building owner when the first pump ceases to operate but prior to operation of the second pump. Alternative embodiments comprise a battery-powered third pump, a battery for powering the third pump, and a mount for mounting the battery inside the basin.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Dry Basement, Inc.Inventors: Curtis Bramble, Otto W. Fleck, Lowell Hickman
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Patent number: 9458618Abstract: A prefabricated below-grade foundation wall module includes first and second laterally extending metal tracks, a plurality of longitudinally extending metal studs, an air barrier, and an outer structural layer. The second laterally extending metal track may be spaced from and facing the first laterally extending metal track. One end of the metal studs may be secured to the first metal track and the other end of the metal studs may be secured to the second laterally extending metal track. The air barrier may be secured in an overlaying position on an exterior-facing side of the module. The outer structural layer may be secured in an overlaying position on an exterior-facing side of the air barrier. The outer structural layer may comprise cement board, plywood or both cement board and plywood. A method of building a foundation wall is also described.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Wade A. Woznuk
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Patent number: 9458619Abstract: A connector assembly, having an upper connector coupled to a lower connector and a gusset plate sandwiched between the upper and lower connectors. Also, disclosed is a hoistable connector assembly, a lifting frame assembly, a coupling system for modular frame units, a method for assembling a module unit using the connector assembly, and a modular frame unit and building having the connector assembly.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: VECTORBLOC CORPORATIONInventors: Julian Bowron, John Gulliford, Erik Churchill, John Cerone, Jonathan Mallie
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Patent number: 9458620Abstract: A grid structure formed from a plurality of building blocks, the grid structure comprising: a plurality of flat panels, wherein two of the plurality of flat panels are paired in parallel to have one of the two parallel flat panels provide an inner surface to one building block from the plurality of building blocks and the other of the two parallel flat panels provide an inner surface to another building block from the plurality of building blocks, wherein within each of the plurality of building blocks, the inner surfaces of any two adjacent panels lie on planes intersecting along a straight line that passes through an inner corner of the building block.Type: GrantFiled: March 17, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Singapore University of Technology and DesignInventors: Andres Sevtsuk, Raul Kalvo
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Patent number: 9458621Abstract: Described embodiments relate to a transportable expandable building structure for human occupancy. The building structure comprises at least first, second and third frame modules arranged to nest with each other in a contracted position and to telescopically expand into an expanded position. One of the first, second and third frame modules is a base unit frame module that forms part of a base unit and the other frame modules are arranged to be movable away from the base unit to adopt the expanded position. The base unit has a fixed floor and is arranged to support the building structure in the contracted position to enable transportation of the building structure by road. Each of the frame modules is different in size from an adjacent one10 of the frame modules and comprises a floor portion, a roof portion and opposed side portions. Each side portion defines a same-sized modular insert region to receive modular door, window or wall inserts.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Expanding Buildings Pty LtdInventors: Angelo Calafatis, Paul Gorman
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Patent number: 9458622Abstract: The portable structure will generally have a pod from which a suite frame and suite may be deployed. The suite will allow personnel to administer to many critical demands and activities. The portable structure may be deployed upon any terrain, whether level or uneven, rigid or soft, and both the pod and the suite may be leveled independently. Additionally, the portable structure may incorporate at least one cocoon section wherein the cocoon section comprises at least one interior layer contacting a mesh covering placed over the suite frame, at least one thermal layer affixed to the interior layer, wherein the thermal layer includes heat adding and heat removal members capable of removing or adding heat to the mesh covering or a substance adjacent the at least one thermal layer and at least one exterior layer affixed to the thermal layer.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: James R. Orr
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Patent number: 9458623Abstract: A structure which includes a container (16) which forms a housing (20) and, mounted to the housing, a plurality of walls (52,54,56,58) which are pivotally interconnected and which are movable between a compact stored configuration and an extended operative configuration.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Douglas Malcolm Duncan
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Patent number: 9458624Abstract: An elongated clip for hard clapboard style siding such as fiber cement, composite wood, fiberglass, plastic, oriented strand board or other materials. The clip includes rainscreen and standoff features for proper placement from a support wall structure. In addition, the clip includes a support feature for the installation and proper alignment of an upper course of siding.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2014Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: CERTAINTEED CORPORATIONInventor: Christopher Michael Colyn
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Patent number: 9458625Abstract: A clip for facilitating installation of foam insulation boards in a building structure. The clip comprises a body, a spacer and a foot for holding the insulation board, and a connection region for attachment of the clip to a building structural member. The clip is designed to ensure proper ventilation and greatly easy the proper installation of rigid foam insulation.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2015Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Inventor: Paul Fabis