Patents Issued in October 6, 2016
  • Publication number: 20160289910
    Abstract: A pile is moved downwards by a movable part inside a piling apparatus. An apparatus body is fastened to the pile by fastening elements, during piling the movable part inside the apparatus body is moved downwards, the movable part is stopped hydraulically by medium in a cylinder space without the movable part striking the apparatus body. As the downwards directed motion of the movable part is stopped, the apparatus body and the pile fastened to it jerk downwards, after which, the movable part is moved hydraulically upwards. The counterforce of the motion affects the apparatus body and the pile fastened to it by pushing them downwards. The piling apparatus includes hydraulic cylinder cylinder to the piston of which the movable part is fastened, and to the hydraulic cylinder are connected a pressure transformer, a damping apparatus and a set of control valves to stop the movable part hydraulically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Pentti HEINONEN
  • Publication number: 20160289911
    Abstract: The present relates to a suction foundation in which is penetrated into the seabed by a vacuum pressure of a suction pump, thereby providing a desired foundation support force. The suction foundation includes a hollow caisson having an opening at a lower end thereof, where the suction pump is connected to the hollow caisson and the suction pump allows the hollow caisson to penetrate into the seabed while discharging a fluid in the hollow caisson to an outside thereof by using the vacuum pressure of the suction pump, a lower skirt provided along a circumference of the opening of the hollow caisson and formed into a wave shape having a series of teeth, and having wedge-shaped cross-sections, and a stiffener increasing rigidity of the lower skirt by increasing thickness of a predetermined portion of the lower skirt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 25, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Taek Hee Han, Jin-Hak Yi, Young Hyun Park, Jin Soon Park
  • Publication number: 20160289912
    Abstract: A repair bracket that provides a substitute for one or more broken anchoring tabs of a manhole base. The repair bracket is an expansible bracket that has a frame member with a central manhole access passage through the frame member. The frame member has threaded holes transversely through the frame member and located at positions corresponding to positions of threaded holes in the original unbroken anchoring tabs of the manhole base. The threaded holes are used to connect the frame member to a manhole cover by threaded bolts extending through the cover and into the threaded holes. Expansible actuators are mounted to the frame member and are capable of moving a part of the expansible bracket outward into engagement against the inner wall of the base or a sleeve or casing attached to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Robert T. Smith
  • Publication number: 20160289913
    Abstract: Coverings for structures which can be installed in the ground are known. For example, these are drainage channels or manholes. In order to lock the covering on the structure, closures are known which comprise a snap bolt which is designed in such a way and is mounted movably on the covering (20) against the force of a spring device in such a way that, during closing of the covering (20), the snap bolt is forced back and snaps in behind a counterbearing (14, 14?) fixed to the structure in a closure position. To simplify the arrangement and also to improve durability, it is proposed that the snap bolt is mounted in a housing (40) which can be fastened in a housing receptacle of the covering (20).
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2013
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: James Canney, Jérôme Dubois, Didier Ollivier
  • Publication number: 20160289914
    Abstract: A coupler assembly for coupling a work tool to a work machine. The assembly includes a body, a first locking mechanism, and a second locking mechanism. The first locking mechanism is pivotable about a pivot from a first position to a second position and is configured to be coupled to the work tool in the first position and decoupled in the second position. The second locking mechanism includes a pin having a first end and a second end, a tab coupled to the pin proximate the second end, and a spring disposed between the first end and the second end. The second locking mechanism is axially and pivotably movable about an axis such that the second locking mechanism includes a locked position and an unlocked position. As the first locking mechanism moves from the second position to the first position, the second locking mechanism automatically moves to the locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Daniel M. Sulzer, Arun Narayanan, Gregory A. Kittle, Cory A. Ott
  • Publication number: 20160289915
    Abstract: A self-detaching support frame system for an implement designed to self-detach from a vehicle by actuation of a release handle located within arm reach of the driver is disclosed. The self-detaching support frame system for an implement allow the user to at least partially, preferably entirely, disengages the support frame assembly by activating a control, preferably a single control such as a handle located near the vehicle steering.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Benoit LAUZIERE, Jeremie Aubin-Marchand, Karen PROVENCHER, Michael BERGERON, Tommy ROY, Normand ROY
  • Publication number: 20160289916
    Abstract: A control system for controlling a position of an implement of a machine operating on a terrain includes a controller configured to generate a signal indicative of a desired cylinder velocity of an actuator associated with the implement of the machine and an operating mode sensor configured to generate a signal indicative of an operating mode of the machine. The control system includes an instability detection module which receives the signal indicative of the desired cylinder velocity of the actuator from the controller and the signal indicative of the operating mode of the machine from the operating mode sensor. The instability detection module detects an instability condition based on the signal indicative of the desired cylinder velocity of the actuator and selectively adjusts a controller gain associated with the desired cylinder velocity based at least in part on the instability condition and the operating mode of the machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua David Callaway, Charles W. Grant
  • Publication number: 20160289917
    Abstract: Provided is a seabed-resource lifting device causing deep-sea mud that contains rare-earth elements to rise from depths of 5000 m or more. This seabed-resource lifting device includes: a transport hose that includes a first hose and a second hose and that hangs from a resource-recovery vessel to the seabed; a crawler-type collector that includes a first suction chamber that sends mud from the seabed to the first hose, and a second suction chamber that sends mud from the seabed to the second hose; a water electrolyzer that, using electricity supplied from the resource-recovery vessel, electrolyzes water so as to generate hydrogen gas and oxygen gas; and a gas-injection device that injects the generated hydrogen gas and oxygen gas into the first suction chamber and the second suction chamber, respectively. Mud that contains rare-earth elements rises with sea water due to the buoyancy of the hydrogen gas or oxygen gas.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Shoichi SAKAMOTO
  • Publication number: 20160289918
    Abstract: An attachment for a bucket of a loader, where the bucket includes a bottom wall and a blade extending across an outer surface thereof, features clamping and retaining mechanisms. The clamping mechanism comprises a first clamping surface arranged for engagement with an inner surface of the bottom wall and an opposing second clamping surface arranged for engagement with a bottom surface of the blade. The retaining mechanism comprises a recessed portion longitudinally spaced from the clamping surfaces and an adjustable abutting element in opposite relation to the recessed portion such that the clamping surfaces are located therebetween. The abutting element includes two contact surfaces which are respectively positionable so as to define an abutting surface arranged for butting engagement with a rear surface of the blade. Each working position of the abutting element is suited for retaining a particular width of blade between same and the recessed portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: David Waldner
  • Publication number: 20160289919
    Abstract: A machine system installed on a marine vessel is provided. The marine vessel includes a first mounting portion and a second mounting portion. The second mounting portion is positioned proximal to the first mounting portion. The machine system comprises a machine, an enclosure, and a power unit. The machine includes a frame and a work unit. The frame is rotatably mounted on the first mounting portion of the marine vessel. The work unit is positioned on the frame of the machine. The enclosure is mounted on the second mounting portion of the marine vessel. The power unit includes a power source for the machine. The power source is removably positioned within the enclosure, such that the power source is isolated from the machine. The power source is connected to the work unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Ben Evans, Stephen P. Rutherford, George A. Stenger
  • Publication number: 20160289920
    Abstract: A retaining arm is attached to an end of a padlock pin forming a hinged connection between a padlock and a bucket of a rope shovel, the retaining arm extending perpendicularly to an axis of the padlock pin to connect to a connecting element on the bucket to restrain rotation of the padlock pin relative to the bucket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Eric Carbaugh, Kristofer Henke, Paramdeep Gill
  • Publication number: 20160289921
    Abstract: A bulldozer according to the present application includes a main frame, and an engine, a hood and an exhaust after-treatment device are provided on the main frame, an air inlet of the exhaust after-treatment device is in communication with an air outlet of a turbine of the engine via a pipeline, and the exhaust after-treatment device is fixed to the hood. In the bulldozer, vibration generated by the engine is transmitted to the main frame through an engine supporting frame or a damping device, and then transmitted from the main frame to the hood, the transmission path of the vibration is long, thus the vibration damping becomes complicated and has a high damping value, and the vibration transmitted to the air cleaner is really small.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Chang'an Liu, Yutian Jiang, Xiangyang Li, Jinliang Wang, Dongxiao Yan, Yajun Huang, Linzhen Zhang, Songshan Shi, Jianjun Zhao, Chao Jia
  • Publication number: 20160289922
    Abstract: Automated excavating uses automated dozers and other earthmoving equipment to move material at a worksite. Some areas of the worksite may require that control of the automated dozer revert to manual control, such as a spread zone near a crest. A controller monitors the position of automated dozers and adjusts an operating characteristic of an individual automated dozer so that there are not more dozers in the zone than there are operators to manually control them. The adjustment made may depend on the blade loading of an individual dozer, particularly so that a dozer with a loaded blade is not brought to a complete stop, which may cause undue wear on the dozer when re-starting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.
    Inventors: Mo Wei, Michael Taylor, Thandava Edara
  • Publication number: 20160289923
    Abstract: To provide construction machinery capable of more efficiently utilizing the energy of return hydraulic oil from a hydraulic actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Shinji ISHIHARA, Masatoshi HOSHINO, Kazuo FUJISHIMA
  • Publication number: 20160289924
    Abstract: A working machine includes a machine body, an operation fluid tank mounted on the machine body, a hydraulic device to be operated by an operation fluid supplied from the operation fluid tank. A valve unit includes a plurality of control valves to control the hydraulic device. The control valves are arranged along a horizontal direction. A switch valve is to be connected to the control valves. A first tube member includes a first fluid tube to connect the control valve and the switch valve to each other and supports the switch valve above the control valve.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Daisuke MATSUMIYA, Kiyoshi MATSUI, Teruo KUNIZAWA, Fukusui RIN, Shigeru KOBAYASHI, Koji NAGAHAMA, Yuji KAWANO, Tsukasa HARAGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20160289925
    Abstract: A rotatory energy recycling control device for a hydraulic excavator, comprising: an oil line selector valve (1), a direction selector valve (2), a sequencing valve (3), a one-way valve (4) and an overflow valve (5); two oil inlets of the oil line selector valve (1) are respectively connected to an opening A and an opening B of a rotary motor; an oil outlet of the oil line selector valve (1) is connected to an inlet of the direction selector valve (2); an outlet of the direction selector valve (2) is connected to an net of the sequencing valve (3); a drainage port of the sequencing valve (3) is connected to an oil tank; an outlet of the sequencing valve (3) and an net of the one-way valve (4) communicate with the overflow valve (5): the outlet of the one-way valve (4) is connected to an energy storage and utilization device; and an outlet of the overflow valve (5) is connected to the oil tank.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 13, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: Xuzhuo Xugong Excavator Machinery Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: ZHENXING WANG, ZONG LI, JIASHENG QIN, SHUHUI FEI, JIJIANG SHI, JIANCHANG GAO, BENQIANG SUN, ZHIPENG LI, YANG ZHENG
  • Publication number: 20160289926
    Abstract: A hydraulic system for a machine is provided including a first cylinder, a pump and an operator input device for entering a commanded rate of flow of hydraulic fluid to the first cylinder. A control valve operatively is connected between the pump and the first cylinder. A sensor is configured and arranged to provide signals relating to a first operating characteristic of the machine. A controller is in communication with the operator input device, the control valve and the sensor. The controller is configured to determine a skill level of an operator of the machine based on a comparison of the first operating characteristic of the machine and a first threshold and to direct the control valve to provide hydraulic fluid to the first cylinder at an adjusted hydraulic fluid flow rate if the skill level of the operator is below a predetermined level.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey S. Alig, Conrad G. Grembowicz, Bradley Bomer, Jeffrey Fletcher, Karl Kirsch, Zhijun Cai
  • Publication number: 20160289927
    Abstract: A monitoring system for a machine having a bowl is provided. The monitoring system includes a perception sensor provided in association with the bowl of the machine. The perception sensor is configured to generate a signal indicative of a view of the bowl. The monitoring system also includes a controller coupled to the perception sensor. The controller is configured to receive the signal indicative of the view of the howl from the perception sensor. The controller is configured to determine a level of material within the bowl based on the received signal. The controller is configured to determine a current loading status of the bowl based on the determined level of the material. The controller is also configured to provide an indication of the current loading status.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventors: Qi Wang, Brian Byers, Michael Robert Whitchurch, Brent Logan Woodard, Timothy Jay Rothrock, Peter Lamar Rummel, Jeffrey Glenn Jable, Michael Schilling, Scott R. Miller, Joseph Forcash, Larry Wayne Lynch
  • Publication number: 20160289928
    Abstract: A control system controls a construction machine that includes a work machine including a bucket having a plurality of tilting mechanisms. The control system includes: a tilt angle sensor that is provided in the bucket so as to detect tilt angle data including a rotation angle of the bucket about the tilt shaft, the tilt angle sensor being capable of detecting an inclination angle with respect to a horizontal plane; a data acquisition unit to which the tilt angle data is output from the tilt angle sensor; a data fixing unit that fixes the tilt angle data output to the data acquisition unit based on a fixing command to generate fixed data; and a work machine control unit that controls the work machine based on the fixed data until the fixing command is disabled.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Jin Kitajima
  • Publication number: 20160289929
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a fluid leak detection and shutdown for a fluid distribution system having a total system flow rate. The apparatus includes a solenoid shutoff valve having a normally open state and an activated closed state with a flow capacity matched to the total fluid distribution system flow rate. The apparatus also has a primary fluid flow line and a smaller capacity secondary fluid flow line. The apparatus includes a flow sensor in fluid communication with the secondary fluid flow line, wherein the flow sensor has a perceptible output and a flow rate capacity less than the solenoid shutoff flow capacity. Operationally, the flow sensor receives a portion of the solenoid shutoff valve flow capacity in priority over the primary fluid flow line, allowing the flow sensor to detect minimal flow rates and using the perceptible output to activate the solenoid shutoff valve into the closed state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Kevin Duane Guy, John Elm
  • Publication number: 20160289930
    Abstract: Plumbing outlet boxes, such as for connecting washing machines, ice makers, and other plumbed appliances to plumbing systems, are provided that can be attached to each other without the use of separate connectors or mounting brackets. In particular, plumbing outlet boxes are described that include receiving features and mounting tabs extending outwardly from the side walls. The receiving features and mounting tabs are arranged such that the plumbing outlet box has rotational symmetry. In this way, receiving features may be engaged with mounting tabs of an adjacent plumbing outlet box regardless of the relative orientation of the mating plumbing outlet boxes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: James H. Whitehead, Jeffrey A. Humber
  • Publication number: 20160289931
    Abstract: A fine ceramic valve may include a valve body, a valve base and a sealing unit. The valve base is located under the valve body and has a top board. A drain hole is disposed on the top board, and a water inlet duct extends downwardly from each of the two sides of the drain hole, wherein each of the two water inlet ducts has two side walls connected with each other, an outer arc and an inner wall, and the bottom is closed, and the top portion of the top board corresponding to each of the two water inlet ducts has a water through hole to guide the water down into the water inlet duct. The sealing unit has a first ring with a vertical axial pore, and each of two sides of the first ring downwardly connects with a second ring with a horizontal axial pore.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: HAIN YO ENTERPRISES CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chia-Po Chang
  • Publication number: 20160289932
    Abstract: A water dispenser, which is for controlling a water flow of a water dispensation having a water outlet, includes a faucet adapted for mounting on a counter and an operating mechanism which includes a switch being supporting under the counter, a valve operatively linked to the switch for operatively mounting at the water outlet, and a hosting object magnetically connected to the switch when moving the hosting object on the counter. When the hosting object is moved to align with the switch, the valve is actuated at an opened position for allowing water to flow to the faucet. When the hosting object is moved away from the switch, the valve is actuated at a closed position for blocking the water to flow to the faucet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Shovkat Mirakhimov, Omar Rocha
  • Publication number: 20160289933
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a self-cleaning sink, comprising a plurality of water spray injectors distributed on inner surface under an upper rim of the sink for delivering pressurized water to an inner bowl of the sink and a plurality of conduits connecting a reservoir containing a cleaning liquid to the sink. The sink further comprises an activation control operable for pumping a specific quantity of the cleaning liquid through one or more of the conduits and mixing with pressurized water delivered via the plurality of water spray injectors for cleaning the inner bowl of the sink.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: WILLIE WILLIAMS, III
  • Publication number: 20160289934
    Abstract: A drain assembly for an industrial sink that is seamlessly attached to a basin of a sink. In one embodiment, the drain assembly comprises a drain tube, drain stopper, gasket, clamp, and lever. According to one embodiment, the drain assembly is seamlessly welded to the basin of the sink so that the drain assembly and sink form one continuous unit. The drain assembly allows for external (to the sink) operation of the drain assembly via the use of a lever that is attached to the drain stopper, wherein moving the lever seals and opens the drain assembly. In one embodiment, the drain stopper is spherically-shaped with spherical wedges cut out of the top to form a disc-shaped handle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Sam M. TIDWELL
  • Publication number: 20160289935
    Abstract: A Clear Lavatory Under sink Drain Assembly with removable drain trap & Safety Clips, comprised of three piece clear Plastic tubular pipe members, a removable top & bottom closures, with a noncorrosive rubber gasket and a safety clip attached to the wire clips that hold the bottom housing portion to create air and water tight integrity snap clip seal to withstand hydrostatic pressure. Also, the clear bottom cup like housing has built in safety clips to unsnap to allow for clogs or loose items to be easily retrievable without obstructing the natural flow of water. The Clear bottom cup like housing has a closure outlet deepened to allow retrieval of foreign small objects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 23, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Erick Travis Hall, JR.
  • Publication number: 20160289936
    Abstract: A universal toilet cistern allows for the water supply inlet to be installed on either the right or left side of the tank. This is accomplished in various ways including, but not limited to, using punch-out supply inlet elements; making cisterns with multiple inlet openings that can be sealed during installation; utilizing multiple supply inlet valves; implementing a sliding seal; and/or using a reversible insert. The universal cistern is not only more efficient and convenient in that less plumping can be used, but it also improves the aesthetics of the installed product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 20, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: George Horaites, Filip Ottych
  • Publication number: 20160289937
    Abstract: A siphonic flush toilet includes a tank adapted to hold flush water which includes a jet opening and a rim opening. A bowl assembly is also included which has a bowl with a rim conduit connected to the rim opening and a jet feed connected to the jet opening. A rim trap assembly is connected to a flush valve and opening of the flush valve allows flush water to enter the rim conduit and the jet feed. Closure of the flush valve stops flush water from entering the rim conduit and the jet feed while retaining flush water in the rim trap assembly to maintain a prime within the connected jet feed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: PAUL CONRAD
  • Publication number: 20160289938
    Abstract: A toilet system configured for operation on-board an aircraft includes, according to an implementation, a toilet bowl, a left side support bracket supporting the toilet bowl, a right side support bracket supporting the toilet bowl, a control box including a first set of pins, and a harness connector configured to electrically couple the toilet to the aircraft. The harness connector includes a set of pins, where the first set of pins of the control box are configured to be connected to the set of pins included in the harness connector, and the control box is configured to determine a platform of the aircraft based on the presence or absence of a pin in the set of pins included in the harness connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Thao Hoang, Bradley J. Buniak, Stephen M. Niznik, William Pedersen, Mark A. Pondelick
  • Publication number: 20160289939
    Abstract: A method of controlling an operation of a toilet system on-board an aircraft is disclosed. The toilet system includes a toilet bowl, a fluid valve controlling input of fluid into the toilet bowl, a flush switch configured to be activated by a user, and a controller configured to operate the fluid valve. The method includes detecting an activation of the flush switch, monitoring a flush switch activation time period, and determining whether the flush switch activation time period exceeds a preset threshold time period. In response to determining that flush switch activation time period does not exceed the preset threshold time period, a standard flush cycle is initiated. In response to determining that the flush switch activation time period exceeds the preset threshold time period, a maintenance mode is initiated allowing a larger volume of fluid to fill the toilet bowl for maintenance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher Hardwick, Thao Hoang, Bradley J. Buniak, Christian C. Kurshinsky, William Pedersen
  • Publication number: 20160289940
    Abstract: A toilet bowl system for use on-board an aircraft includes a toilet bowl body comprising a toilet bowl and a shroud. The toilet bowl has a rim. A removable splash guard is positioned between the toilet bowl and the shroud, and comprises a generally flat, flexible, planar shield having a central opening. The shield includes a top portion and a rear portion, the top portion faces the shroud and the lower portion faces the toilet bowl, and the lower portion is shaped to correspond with an upper portion of the rim of the toilet bowl and is configured to secure the removable toilet splash guard to the toilet bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher Hardwick, Thao Hoang, Bradley J. Buniak, Christian C. Kurshinsky
  • Publication number: 20160289941
    Abstract: A cleaning apparatus and a method of using the cleaning apparatus to clean a surface is provided. The cleaning apparatus can include a release material having a first half and a second half. The first half and the second half can be wrapped around a self-adhesive material and can be configured to release the self-adhesive material when the self-adhesive material is applied to a surface. After the self-adhesive material is secured to the surface for a predetermined period, a shear force required to remove the product from the surface may be increased. Packaging may include instructions indicating to a user to wait a predetermined time period prior to using the self-adhesive material as a manual cleaning agent. The predetermined time period prior to using the self-adhesive material as a manual cleaning agent can be approximately 24 hours.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: S. C. Johnson & Son, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan C. Hale, Michael E. Klinkhammer
  • Publication number: 20160289942
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling the waste outlet of a toilet includes, according to an implementation, a motor comprising a Hall effect sensor that detects the rotation of the motor and generates a position signal in response thereto; a mechanical actuator coupled to the motor; a door coupled to the mechanical actuator, wherein the door is disposed at the waste outlet of the toilet; logic circuitry that receives the position signal, generates a control signal to move the door based at least in part on the position signal, and transmits the control signal to the motor. The motor operates according to the control signal to drive the mechanical actuator to move the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Thao Hoang, Bradley J. Buniak, Christian C. Kurshinsky, Stephen M. Niznik, William Pedersen, Mark A. Pondelick
  • Publication number: 20160289943
    Abstract: A method of installing a toilet system on board an aircraft is generally described. The toilet system includes a base support having a right base support and a left base support, a toilet bowl, a right side support and a left side support each supporting the toilet bowl. The method comprises lowering the toilet bowl on to the base supports to at least partially engage a first locking mechanism; sliding the toilet bowl in a forward direction to engage a second locking mechanism; and inserting a first pin to couple the right base support to the right side support and a second pin to couple the left base support to the left side support in order to completely engage the first locking mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Christopher Hardwick, Thao Hoang, Bradley J. Buniak, Stephen M. Niznik, William Pedersen, Mark A. Pondelick, Gregory E. Sund
  • Publication number: 20160289944
    Abstract: Embodiments of the disclosure provide systems and methods for improved removability and ease of maintenance for one or more components of the vacuum toilet system. They can be particularly useful on-board aircraft and other passenger transport vehicles. Specific embodiments relate to a rinse valve bracket and connection system, a rinse ring tie down, and various improved connection systems.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Arnaud Namer, David A. Beach, Joerg Stachowski, Howard C. B. Kuhns, Jorge Alfonso Bautista Hernandez, Oscar Mathews, Razmik B. Boodaghians
  • Publication number: 20160289945
    Abstract: In one aspect, a device including urinal and toilet capabilities is provided. The device includes a toilet bowl, a toilet seat coupled to and rotatable relative to the toilet bowl, and a toilet cover coupled to and rotatable relative to the toilet bowl. The toilet cover includes a receptacle configured to receive urine. In one aspect, an overflow assembly for a toilet is provided and includes a sensor configured to sense a water level in a toilet bowl, a first communication device in electrical communication with the sensor, and a second communication device in communication with the first communication device. The first communication device is configured to transmit data to the second communication device associated with the water level in the toilet bowl.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Robert W. Seneff
  • Publication number: 20160289946
    Abstract: An apparatus for increasing the utility of gravity conduits by using their underutilized headspace for pressurized conveyance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Shahriar Eftekharzadeh
  • Publication number: 20160289947
    Abstract: The ground water collection system is a filtering system for removing debris from ground water prior to drainage into a sewer line. The ground water collection system includes a basin having a drainage outlet formed through at least one sidewall. A filter shell is removably inserted within the basin, and a filter basket is removably inserted within the filter shell. A funnel member includes at least one funnel sidewall formed from mesh and opposed open upper and lower ends. An angled rim extends about the open upper end for funneling ground water through a central portion of the funnel member and into the filter basket. The funnel member is removably inserted within the filter basket so that the at least one funnel sidewall is positioned adjacent the open upper end of the filter basket. A grate removably covers an open upper end of the basin.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: FAISAL ABDUL AZIZ AL-ASSFOUR
  • Publication number: 20160289948
    Abstract: This product is designed to alert building owners that there is a dangerous sewage back-up condition occurring. Once a sewage back-up has occurred, it is not only annoying, but it also could cost thousands of dollars. There is no existing product that a building owner can buy, at any money, to alert them that the sewage system is backing up into the building. This system will work for either in-ground septic systems or town/city sewer systems. The Sewer Overflow Detector system can be installed in 15 minutes by plumber or building owner in the basement or crawl space on sewer line where it enters the building. This devise could eventually be priced like smoke detectors, after manufacturing becomes streamlined. The described installation would also allow for a sewer clean out for access for plumber or septic line cleaner to clean out system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: TYLER J. RASMUS
  • Publication number: 20160289949
    Abstract: A connecting structure a one rod-shaped member and a counterpart rod-shaped member includes a hollow connecting pipe disposed to straddle contact surfaces with the one member and the counterpart member, and a fixing unit including a bolt with which the connecting pipe is integrated with the one member and the counterpart member. The one member and the counterpart member include upright grooves configured to house the connecting pipe entirely. The upright grooves face each other to dispose the contact surfaces therebetween and extend vertically. The connecting pipe has a side surface provided with a lateral hole configured such that the fixing unit including the bolt is inserted thereinto. The upright grooves extend toward without reaching a lower surface of the one member and a lower surface of the counterpart member. The upright grooves have respective bottoms serving as upward surfaces configured such that the connecting pipe is placed thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Kenho OKURA
  • Publication number: 20160289950
    Abstract: A joining element includes at least two joint holes for pin joints as well as a first plane surface and a second plane surface and an inclined surface slanting towards an outer edge of the joining element and arranged at an angle with respect to at least one said plane surface. A method includes joining two wood structures to one another by using the joining element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 11, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: VENONA ARI KÄHKÖNEN
    Inventor: Ari KÄHKÖNEN
  • Publication number: 20160289951
    Abstract: A resilient bearing to be positioned between a first structure and a second structure including a central connection point for connecting the resilient bearing to the first structure and a plurality of limbs extending outwardly from the central connection point to distal connection points. The resilient bearing may be formed from a single piece of elastic material adapted to dampen forces due to environmental events. A functional property of the elastic material may vary along at least some of the plurality of limbs. The angle between each of at least some of the plurality of limbs and the second structure may be between 20 and 70 degrees.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Glen HOOKER, John TOCKER
  • Publication number: 20160289952
    Abstract: A bridge to construct a multi-stage wall is provided with a clip at each end. One of the clips is sized and shaped to fit snugly onto the wall of a standard concrete masonry unit (CMU), while the other is sized and shaped to fit onto a segmental wall system (SWS) unit. A retaining or stand-alone wall is constructed by laying a row of SWS units and a row of CMUs roughly parallel to each other, with bridges extending between them to fix the units. The hollow spaces in each unit and the space between the rows is filled with gravel, rock or other fill material as each course is laid. Additional courses of SWS units and CMUs are placed on top of the prior courses, with bridges added to each course. This process is repeated until the desired wall height is reached. Various sized and shaped clips and connector brackets are provided to allow spacing of the walls at different distances, with varying blocks.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: Dean Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick E. Dean, Daniel J. Curry, J. Matthew Kempainen, Kong Cheng Moua, Michael Stoneburner, Daniel Sylvestre
  • Publication number: 20160289953
    Abstract: Moisture barrier membranes for use in flooring structures are provided. The moisture barrier membrane can suppress water vapor emission from a flooring substrate (such as a concrete floor) up to about 99% relative humidity. The moisture barrier membrane may include a top layer (e.g., a polyester layer), a rubberized copolymer bottom layer, and an optionally removable liner (e.g., polyethylene or nylon film). Methods of installing the moisture barrier membrane are provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Craig Silvers, Chandulal Patel, Gerald Francis Palys, Jon R. Hall
  • Publication number: 20160289954
    Abstract: Gypsum panels, sheathing systems, and methods of making and using the same are provided. A gypsum panel includes a gypsum core associated with a first fiberglass mat having a continuous barrier coating, the coating penetrating a portion of the first fiberglass mat opposite the gypsum core, wherein gypsum penetrates a remaining fibrous portion of the first fiberglass mat such that voids in the first fiberglass mat are substantially eliminated. A building sheathing system includes at least two gypsum panels and a seaming component to provide a seam at an interface between the gypsum panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Applicant: Georgia-Pacific Gypsum LLC
    Inventors: Vincent B. Thomas, Rochelle Bradford, Christopher J. Sanders, Yi-Hsien Harry Teng
  • Publication number: 20160289955
    Abstract: The invention concerns a wall element including a felt panel that has at least two felt layers, with at least one felt layer having a three-dimensional structure on at least one top side. The felt panel includes as its top layer a plane felt layer, as its bottom layer a plane felt layer, and as its middle layer at least one corrugated felt layer. The corrugated felt layer bordering on the top layer is connected to the top layer on its top side in the region of upper vertex lines or vertex points formed by its wave peaks. The corrugated felt layer bordering on the bottom layer is connected to the bottom layer on its bottom side in the region of lower vertex lines or vertex points formed by its wave valleys.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: Burkhard SCHMITZ, Carola ZWICK, Roland ZWICK
  • Publication number: 20160289956
    Abstract: A foam glass integrated plate effective in water and fire proofing, thermal insulation and decoration, includes a foam glass plate (1). The inside of the foam glass plate (1) is combined with a bonding layer so as to be fixed to a wall (3), the outer surface of the foam glass plate (1) is a stereoscopic embossed surface and is combined with a coating layer (2). The plate has a simple structure and good decorative effect.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 2, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventors: YONGFU ZHANG, CHUNHUA ZHANG, XIAOBIN HUANG
  • Publication number: 20160289957
    Abstract: A bracket useful for seismic bracing of conduits is described. The bracket is placeable over a threaded rod and includes sidewalls for accepting a fastener and a pair of apertures for attaching to a brace. Certain brackets are stackable, allowing for the attachment of multiple braces from a single anchored rod. Other brackets include two parts that allow the bracket to be assembled about a threaded rod without removing elements which might previously be attached to the rod.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2016
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Steven Andrew Roth
  • Publication number: 20160289958
    Abstract: An object, such as a building, provided with a system for preventing damage from earthquakes to the object, said system comprising: a foundation anchored to the ground; guide means mounted on said foundation and on said object arranged to allow relative displacement between the object and the foundation in at least one horizontal direction; at least one actuator arranged to displace said object in said at least one direction relative to said foundation; said at least one actuator being connected to a central processing unit; said central processing unit being connected to at least one displacement sensor; said at least one displacement sensor being arranged to detect in real time displacement of said foundation and/or the ground and/or said object and to input in real time data about said displacement to said central processing unit; and said processing unit being programmed to activate in real time said actuator in dependence on said data in such a manner that said object is displaced relative to said
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Oshri Even Zohar
  • Publication number: 20160289959
    Abstract: A vibration damper device comprising: a rigid bracket having a substantially flat side shoulder including a substantially rectilinear longitudinal groove or slit thereon, and which is anchorable in a rigid manner on the body of the lintel or of the pillar, next to the covering beam or the plug panel, to arrange said side shoulder facing the lateral side of the covering beam or the surface of the plug panel, with the longitudinal groove or slit locally substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the covering beam or to the longitudinal axis of the plug panel; a movable slider slidably engages the longitudinal groove or slit, and is anchorable in a rigid manner to the body of the covering beam or to the body of the plug panel; and a deformable connecting member with elastoplastic behavior, which is connectable to the movable slider in a rigid manner to the bracket.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 21, 2014
    Publication date: October 6, 2016
    Inventor: Gianfranco GRAMOLA