Patents Issued in January 3, 2017
  • Golf bags with retention system and methods to manufacture golf bags
    Patent number: 9533205
    Abstract: Embodiments of golf bags with an extensible bag stand having a retention system and methods to manufacture golf bags are generally described herein. Other embodiments of golf bags with an extensible bag stand having a retention system may be described and claimed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Karsten Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventors: Brian J. McGuire, John H. Loudenslager, Kim K. Chau, Ruben E. Whitten, Christopher E. Kalck, Alex Cowan
  • Turf maintenance device
    Patent number: 9533206
    Abstract: A turf maintenance device (12) for maintaining a section of turf (10) comprises a plurality of bristles (26) that form a bristle array (546) having an array length (AL) and an array width (AW). In certain alternative embodiments, the ratio of the array length (AL) to the array width (AW) can be at least approximately ten to one, or at least approximately thirty to one. Further, the plurality of bristles (26) have a bristle length (BL). In certain alternative embodiments, the ratio of the bristle length (BL) to the array width (AW) can be at least approximately three to one, or at least approximately five to one. The turf maintenance device (12) can further comprise a handle (222) that is coupled to the plurality of bristles (26). The handle (222) can include a plurality of handle members (228) that move relative to one another between an extended configuration and a contracted configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: WISP Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Eben W. Dobson, III
  • Blade for a hockey stick
    Patent number: 9533207
    Abstract: A hockey stick blade comprising a front and a rear blade face, the front blade face comprising at least one front layer of reinforcing fiber material having a first reinforcing fiber density, and the rear blade face comprising at least one rear layer of reinforcing fiber material having a second reinforcing fiber density, the first reinforcing fiber density differing from the second reinforcing fiber density. A hockey stick having such a blade is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: SPORT MASKA INC.
    Inventor: Philippe Jeanneau
  • Soccer apparatus and related methods
    Patent number: 9533208
    Abstract: Typical embodiments of the disclosed apparatus are: a traditional soccer ball; a game-play area that is confined within rebound-fences and pass walls; a vertical scoring standard that is configured to spin on a vertical axis when struck by a soccer ball. The identified apparatus may be used in a confined and multi-directional soccer game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Alan N. Wright
  • Steer roping practice apparatus with improved leg gait
    Patent number: 9533209
    Abstract: A mechanical roping steer apparatus for practicing roping of a steer may comprise a support assembly for resting on a ground surface, a rotatable wheel configured to contact the ground surface such that movement of the support assembly across the ground rotates the wheel, and a steer assembly connected to the support assembly. The steer assembly may comprise a frame having a spine structure, a hip structure movably mounted on the frame to move between first and second positions, and a leg structure movably mounted on the hip structure to move between forward and rearward positions, and including at least one leg member. The steer assembly may include an actuation assembly may be configured to move the leg member downwardly toward the ground surface during rearward movement of the leg member and move the leg member upwardly during forward movement of the leg member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Alan R. Copenhaver
  • Convertible game system
    Patent number: 9533210
    Abstract: A convertible game system configured to be used by a player at home who wishes to practice skills from multiple sports on an apparatus that does not require extensive space requirements. The game system has a frame, with a hopper section and a mounting section, a ball return, and a rotational component. The rotational component is mounted to the frame at the mounting section by a locking bearing system. For use, a player unlocks the locking bearing system, rotates the rotational component to display the desired game face, then re-locks the locking bearing system before beginning game play. The rotational component can have as few as 3 faces, and as many as 8 faces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Sport Squad, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard Lee
  • Golf swing plane training aid device
    Patent number: 9533211
    Abstract: A golf swing plane training aid device for use with a golf club is presented. The training aid device includes an ellipsoid shaped body having two reference endpoints and two forearm guides adapted to fit forearms of a golfer. The golf training aid device provides a visual reference and aids the forearms of the golfer in the proper swing position along the swing plane and a target line by guiding the forearms and using the reference endpoints as visual feedback aid to determine point of reference along the target line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Edward Bates Watson
  • Golf training device
    Patent number: 9533212
    Abstract: A golf training device comprising a body having a cylinder section including a first end and a second end opposite the first end. The cylinder section defines an interior portion extending from the first end to the second end. A flange section is coupled to the cylinder section proximate the second end. An edge is formed on a perimeter of the disc. A receiver is formed in the interior portion proximate the first end of the cylinder section. The receiver is configured to receive an end of a golf club grip. The interior portion is configured to contact the golf club grip in a fixed position. The edge portion configured to contact a forearm such that the forearm and a centerline of the golf club form an alignment angle. The alignment angle orients the golfers hands, wrist and forearms with a centerline of a golf club shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas W. Martinez
  • Web-based scoring system for golf tournaments
    Patent number: 9533213
    Abstract: A web-based scoring system for golf tournaments utilizes web-enabled mobile devices for entering scores. The system provides a streamlined scoring process that leverages modern technology using only web browsers on the mobile devices. The system handles all authentications and scorer positioning in the tournament using URL/hyperlinks entered on the mobile devices. The system does not require a special scoring application to be loaded to the mobile devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Chris M. Clark
  • Gaming system and method for providing plays of multiple games
    Patent number: 9533214
    Abstract: In various embodiments, the gaming system and method disclosed herein enables a player to allocate portions of a selected predetermined wager amount amongst a plurality of linked games. In one such embodiment, the player selects allocation percentages such that the total of the allocated portions according to the allocation percentages equals the selected predetermined wager amount. For each of the plurality of linked games, the gaming system determines and displays a game outcome, and determines and displays an award associated with the determined game outcome. The gaming system further provides the determined award for each of the plurality of linked games to the player.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Shannon L. Council, Paul S. Heenan, Shawn A. Hupp, Gilbert F. Leiker, Kimberley K. Maya, Alejandro Parrilla Pereira, Adam C. Rud, Oscar E. Salgado, Corey E. Stisser, Shenea A. Strader, Jae M. Yi
  • System and method for predicting in-game activity at account creation
    Patent number: 9533215
    Abstract: This disclosure relates to a system and methodology for dynamically adjusting a game based on predictions made during game account creation in accordance with one or more implementations. The system may be configured to receive user information included in platform level accounts which were previously created by users on an online platform and assign one or more user types to the user based on that user information. The system may be configured such that game adjustments associated with one or more user types for future play by users associated with that user type may be modified over time based on historical and ongoing game activities undertaken by users associated with one or more user types.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Kabam, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Wakeford, Clifford J. Harrington
  • Gaming system and method for providing a multiple player game
    Patent number: 9533216
    Abstract: A gaming system including one or more community game triggering events which function to both: (i) trigger a play of a community game and (ii) determine which players participate in the triggered community game. If a community game triggering event occurs, the gaming system causes a player playing a primary game associated with the occurrence of the community game triggering event to participate in a play of a community game. The gaming system additionally causes zero, one or more other players (i.e., players different from the player playing the primary game associated with the occurrence of the community game triggering event) to also participate in the play of the community game. The gaming system determines which other players participate in the play of the community game based on the specific community game triggering event which occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: IGT
    Inventors: Scott A. Caputo, Leandro Basallo
  • Gamelets
    Patent number: 9533217
    Abstract: According to a method for enabling online game play in a content stream, a website logon is received from a user of a computing device and an associated profile is retrieved. The content stream associated with the profile is displayed in a GUI presented by the computing device. The content stream includes a view of an online game. The view associated with the game is updated in response to a game move. The game move results from input from the user and the view associated with the game continues to be displayed in the content stream.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Zynga Inc.
    Inventors: Samir Naik, Austin Sung, Richard Phan
  • Moderation of antisocial behavior in chat via game mechanics
    Patent number: 9533218
    Abstract: A system and method configured to deter anti-social behavior within chat rooms related to online gaming environments. The system and method include executing an instance of an online game, and using the instance of the online game to facilitate participation by the users in the online game via a client computing devices. Inventories of virtual items under the control of individual users of the online game are managed. The system and method includes hosting a chat session between users and receiving a selection entered through the chat interface by the first user of a requested retribution action against a second user in response to a perceived offensive action initiated by said second user, the selection of the requested retribution action pledging a bounty of one or more virtual items in an inventory to any user that successfully makes retribution against the second user in the online game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: KABAM, INC.
    Inventor: Michael Lin
  • Controller for a games console
    Patent number: 9533219
    Abstract: The invention provides an improved controller (10) for a games console. The invention is a games controller (10) that is intended to be held by a user in both hands in the same manner as a conventional controller (1). Additionally, the controller of the invention (10) may comprise the same controls (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) as a conventional controller (1). The controller of the present invention (10) is advantageous as it additionally comprises four additional controls (11A, 11B, 11C, 11D) located on the rear of the controller (10) in a position to be operated by the middle fingers of a user (12). The additional controllers (11A, 11B, 11C, 11D) may be paddle levers and may replicate the functions of one or more of the controls (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) located on the front or top of the controller (10).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Ironburg Inventions Ltd.
    Inventors: Simon Burgess, Duncan Ironmonger
  • Game controller and game system
    Patent number: 9533220
    Abstract: A first control unit includes a first operation data generation section for generating first operation data in accordance with a motion of a first control unit body included in the first control unit. A second control unit includes a second operation data generation section for generating second operation data in accordance with a direction input operation performed by a player. Further, one of the first control unit and the second control unit includes a transmission section for transmitting the first operation data and the second operation data to a computer at a predetermined timing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: NINTENDO CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Akio Ikeda
  • Video game controller device for a firearm
    Patent number: 9533221
    Abstract: A videogame controller device with a videogame controller housing, the housing having a firearm accessory exterior contour one or more firearm mounts on the videogame controller housing, the one or more mounts for connecting the videogame controller housing to a firearm; and a trigger switch jack for operating a button to simulate firing in a videogame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Ryan Welch
  • Video game overlay
    Patent number: 9533222
    Abstract: A video server is configured to provide streaming video to players of computer games over a computing network. The video server can provided video of different games to different players simultaneously. This is accomplished by rendering several video streams in parallel using a single GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The output of the GPU is provided to graphics processing pipelines that are each associated with a specific client/player and are dynamically allocated as needed. A client qualifier may be used to assure that only clients capable of presenting the streaming video to a player at a minimum level of quality receive the video stream. Video frames provided by the video server optionally include overlays added to the output of the GPU. These overlays can include voice data received from another game player.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Sony Interactive Entertainment America LLC
    Inventors: Andrew Buchanan Gault, David Perry, Rui Filipe Andrade Pereira
  • Game object control using pointing inputs to rotate a displayed virtual object control device
    Patent number: 9533223
    Abstract: A vehicle simulation such as for example a driving game can be provided by displaying an image of a steering wheel on a touch sensitive screen. Touch inputs are used to control the rotational orientation of displayed steering wheel. The rotational orientation of the displayed steering wheel is used to apply course correction effects to a simulated vehicle. Selective application of driver assist and different scaling of touch inputs may be provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: NINTENDO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Robert Champagne, Shigeki Yamashiro, Shigeru Miyamoto, Claude Comair
  • Game program and game apparatus for correcting player's route within a game space
    Patent number: 9533224
    Abstract: A game apparatus displays game space on a display means, and the game space includes a first area and a second area which interrupts continuity of a movement of an object in the first area. A user sets a moving route within the game space by means of a touch pen. The collision, that is, the object moves along the route. Assuming that the object moves to a next point position on the route, when the next point position where the object will enter the second area is set, the computer corrects the next point position to a target position within the first area, and then moves the object thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Nintendo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoichi Yamada, Daiki Iwamoto, Shirou Mouri
  • Computer-readable storage medium having information processing program stored therein, information processing apparatus, information processing system, and information processing method
    Patent number: 9533225
    Abstract: In order to attain the object described above, a game apparatus is able to use a touch panel 13 and operation means, executes a shooting game, and positions an aim G3 representing a shooting direction at a predetermined position. When sliding operation is received on the touch panel, the aim G3 is displaced from the predetermined position by a moving distance based on change of a touch position (input coordinate position). Shooting is virtually performed in a direction based on the position of the aim according to an operation on the operation means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: NINTENDO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Masahiro Sakurai, Nobuhiro Yamasaki, Teppei Ikeda
  • Dynamic adjustment of difficulty in an online game based on hardware or network configuration
    Patent number: 9533226
    Abstract: A system and methodology for dynamically adjusting the difficulty of a game based on upon the specific hardware configuration and/or network connectivity capabilities available to specific users in connection with the interaction of those users with the game. In exemplary implementations, dynamically adjusting the difficulty of playing a game based on hardware and network connectivity capabilities may be performed by processors executing computer program modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Kabam, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Wakeford, Clifford J. Harrington
  • Systems and methods in support of providing customized gamification for accomplishing goals
    Patent number: 9533227
    Abstract: A method in support of providing customized gamification for accomplishing goals receives a request to generate a game framework, the request specifying a goal to be accomplished by one or more participants of a plurality of participants, at least in part through interaction with the game framework. A first set of one or more game parameters to be applied to the game framework is determined for at least a first participant of the plurality of participants, and the game framework comprising the first set of one or more game parameters is generated. The game framework comprising the first set of one or more game parameters is applied to a first profile relating to the first participant of the plurality of participants. The game framework can then be provided to an electronic computing device of the first participant over the network. Systems can be constructed to implement the methods described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Mingo Development, Inc.
    Inventor: Azriel Chelst
  • Systems and methods for fitness and video games
    Patent number: 9533228
    Abstract: In some aspects, a system is provided that includes (1) a plurality of mobile devices; and (2) an application on each mobile device, the application adapted to (a) allow exercisers to form an exercise group; (b) track position or change in position of each exerciser in the exerciser group; and (c) display an avatar having a position that is controlled by a position or change in position of one or more member of the exercise group. Numerous other aspects are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Brian M. Dugan
  • Custom reward for viral help in game
    Patent number: 9533229
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer programs are presented for executing a game. One method includes an operation for detecting a petition for help from a first player to a second player to obtain a first game asset for the first player. The petition is sent to the second player notifying the second player that a game asset needed by the second player would be awarded to the second player for helping the first player. Further, the method includes operations for detecting that the second player has performed a game operation to help the first player based on the petition, and for determining a second game asset that the second player needs for making progress in the game in response to the game operation to help. After the determination, the second game asset is awarded to the second player.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Zynga Inc.
    Inventors: Edan Nahari, Ian Guthridge
  • Ghost expressions based on ghost data augmented by user-provided information
    Patent number: 9533230
    Abstract: Ghost expressions with user-provided information may be provided in asynchronous gameplay. According to some implementations, ghost data associated with a first performance by a first user of a first task in a game may be obtained. The ghost data may be configured to allow generation of a ghost expression in the game corresponding to the first performance of the first task in the game by the first user. User-provided information associated with the first performance of the first task in the game may be obtained. The ghost data may be augmented with the user-provided information to obtain augmented ghost data. The augmented ghost data may be provided to effectuate presentation in the game of the ghost expression and at least some of the user-provided information via a client computing platform associated with the first user or a second user of the game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Disney Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Philippe Paquet, Amy Kalson, Mark Stuart
  • Swing seat
    Patent number: 9533231
    Abstract: A swing seat for increased capacity wherein swing extends along a longitudinal axis and the swing seat comprises a first seat portion and a second seat portion coupled to the first seat portion. The first seat portion is a safety seat having a base portion for seating a child and a support frame for supporting a child in an upright position, and the first seat portion is arranged to swing in a general swinging direction substantially coinciding with the longitudinal axis. The second seat portion is arranged in line with the first seat portion along the longitudinal axis so that the first and second seat portions are both aligned to swing together in the general swinging direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: PLAYPOWER, INC.
    Inventors: Jonas Peres, Marcus Soderstrom
  • Launcher for a slide as well as method for launching a slide run in a slide chute
    Patent number: 9533232
    Abstract: Launcher for a slide and method for starting a sliding process in a slide way, in particular a water slide, having a starting ramp, which includes a slide section having a slide surface, which has a loading zone for at least one user, which extends from an entry-side end of the slide section to a blocking device arranged in the slide section, the blocking device blocking the slide surface when in a starting position, and having a pivoting device, by which the starting ramp can be moved from a loading position to a starting position, and having a control device, which actuates the pivoting movement of the starting ramp between the loading position and the starting position and the blocking device between the starting position and a release position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: AQUARENA HOLDING GMBH
    Inventor: Rainer Braun
  • Grappling apparatus and method of operation
    Patent number: 9533233
    Abstract: One or more methods, apparatuses, and/or systems are disclosed herein for selectively grasping one or more target objects. The apparatus includes a string and a winding mechanism. The winding mechanism is configured to selectively unwind and wind the string, wherein a first portion of the apparatus is configured to be separated from a second portion of the apparatus when the string is unwound and wherein the first and second portions are configured to be adjacent to one another when the string is wound. A plurality of members are pivotally mounted to the apparatus and operably coupled to the winding mechanism, wherein the plurality of members are configured to grasp an object responsive to actuation of a button that is located within an area defined by the plurality of members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Mattel, Inc.
    Inventors: J. Austin Rucker, C. Evangelos Kafantaris, Susie E. Buckman, Leo Shen, Roy Hu, Josiah T. S. Li
  • Hovering toy creature
    Patent number: 9533234
    Abstract: A hovering toy creature having a propulsion system, a control system, a winged body, and a wing actuation assembly. The winged body is mounted to the propulsion system, which is controlled by the control system. The wing actuation assembly is mounted to the winged body, and the wing actuation assembly is powered by the control system. The wing actuation assembly drives the wings in an oscillating flapping motion. The wings comprise apertures permitting air passage through the wing, thus reducing the aerodynamic effect of the flapping motion. In this manner, the wings produce a “bouncing” flight action, thus creating a realistic flight motion. In another embodiment, the propulsion system comprises one or more rotors in a coaxial arrangement. The hovering toy creature is operated by either a wireless control device or a timer device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Tanous Works, LLC
    Inventors: Gregory David Tanous, Ryan Aguilar
  • Acousto-optical baby toy with a remote control monitoring function
    Patent number: 9533235
    Abstract: An acousto-optical baby toy includes a cantilever control unit, an acousto-optical unit connected with the cantilever control unit, and a support unit connected with the cantilever control unit. The acousto-optical baby toy further comprises a remote controller connected with the circuit board of the cantilever control unit in a wireless manner. Thus, the acousto-optical baby toy presents the sound and image messages of the baby cot in a wireless manner so that the parents can operate the acousto-optical baby toy in a remote control manner to watch the instant condition of the baby placed in the baby cot. In addition, the acousto-optical baby toy indicates the environmental messages, functions as a night lamp, has an interactive acousto-optical effect and provides a vibrating function, thereby facilitating the parents taking care of the baby in the baby cot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Way-Hong Chen
  • Ring toss game
    Patent number: 9533236
    Abstract: A disc toss game that comprises a ball placed in the center of a ring that can be knocked out of the ring to score points, with additional points and bonuses being awarded if the disc stays within the ring is disclosed in various embodiments of the present invention. The game of the present invention comprises a plurality of parts and can be adapted for indoor as well as outdoor enjoyment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Inventor: Henry Brunner
  • Device for a special effect explosion or burst
    Patent number: 9533237
    Abstract: A harness for receiving a special effects squib charge includes: a substantially planar base bound by opposing first and second surfaces joined at a perimeter; a tubular sidewall extending from the first surface of the base to form a tubular receptacle; an inward extension from the tubular sidewall defining a receiving aperture, the receiving aperture sized to be elastically deformed to allow insertion of the squib charge; and the distance between the base and the inward extension sized to be substantially equal to the axial length of the squib charge. A bullet hit device includes the harness, and a kit is for assembly and/or use of the harness as a bullet hit device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: 8879192 CANADA Inc.
    Inventor: Martin Timothy Testa
  • Controlled-gradient, accelerated vapor-recompression apparatus and method
    Patent number: 9533238
    Abstract: An accelerated vapor recompression apparatus 10 converts incoming flow 35a to a concentrate 35c by developing a concentration profile 146 within a tank 30 holding a liquid 23 containing dissolved solids. The resulting curve 160 of saturation temperature of the stratified liquid 23 (such as a brine 23 or other material 23) moves away from the curve 162 corresponding to fully mixed conditions. The shift 174, 180 in saturation temperature results in increased boiling without increased energy from a heater 70 or compressor 50. A method 90, 200 of control of the system provides interventions 203, 204, 205, 206 at different levels 92, 94, 96, 98 of control, ranging from mass flows 35 to work of a compressor 50, heat from a heater 70, and a predictive processing 215 of feedback 217 for controlling commands 216 algorithmically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: PURESTREAM SERVICES, LLC
    Inventors: J. Clair Batty, Neil W. Richardson, David A. Bell, Christopher M. Miller
  • Carbon dioxide stripping urea plant with a natural-circulation synthesis loop and a method for retrofitting such plant
    Patent number: 9533239
    Abstract: A plant for synthesis of urea with a CO2-stripping process, comprising a natural-circulation synthesis loop, said loop including at least a urea reactor (1), a carbon dioxide stripper (2) and a condenser (3), said reactor, stripper and condenser operating substantially at the same elevated pressure, said loop comprising also a reactor effluent flow line (5), connecting said urea reactor to said stripper, which comprises means (15) for directly or indirectly detecting the flow rate and/or the direction of the flow through said reactor effluent flow line (5).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Casale SA
    Inventor: Lorenzo Pennino
  • System and method for emulsion breaking
    Patent number: 9533240
    Abstract: A method of recovering a bead support from an emulsion includes supplying an aqueous surfactant solution into a centrifuge tube; supplying a hydrophobic liquid over the surfactant solution in the centrifuge tube, wherein a ratio of the volume of the aqueous surfactant solution to the volume of the hydrophobic liquid is not greater than 0.5; and applying an emulsion over the hydrophobic liquid while centrifuging, the emulsion comprising a dispersed aqueous phase including the bead support, the emulsion breaking and material of the dispersed phase preferentially partitioning to the surfactant solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Life Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: Brian Reed, James A. Ball
  • Methods and apparatus for particle aggregation using acoustic standing waves
    Patent number: 9533241
    Abstract: Devices for separating materials from a host fluid are disclosed. The devices include an acoustic chamber having an inlet and an outlet. An ultrasonic transducer and reflector create a multi-dimensional acoustic standing wave in the acoustic chamber that traps the materials and permits a continuous separation of the materials from the host fluid. The materials and the host fluid can thus be separately collected. Multiple sets of trapping lines are generated by the acoustic standing wave, and the transducer is oriented to minimize cross-sectional area for straight vertical channels between the trapping lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: FloDesign Sonics, Inc.
    Inventors: Walter M. Presz, Jr., Kedar Chitale, Bart Lipkens
  • Electronic interface for water filtration system
    Patent number: 9533243
    Abstract: A water filter includes a filter unit having a body portion adapted to be rotatingly received into a filter head assembly. An engagement protrusion extends from the body portion and is adapted for reception in a complementary receiver in the filter head assembly. An electronic device is disposed on the filter unit having a memory storage unit. A laterally extending key member is disposed on the body portion between the first engagement surface and the second engagement surface. The laterally extending key member is adapted to reposition an interference member from an interference position, whereby the body portion can be fully inserted into the filter head assembly to a non-interference position, whereby the body portion can be fully inserted into the filter head assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Whirlpool Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher A. Kruckenberg, John W. Morrison, Peter J. Richmond, Jeffrey A. Spindler
  • Filter device
    Patent number: 9533244
    Abstract: A filter device has a filter housing having two separable housing parts (1 and 11) that can receive at least one filter element (21). The housing parts can be connected to one another by a coupling device (7). The filter element (21), or an adapter that can be connected to it, forms a functionally essential component of the coupling device (7). Only when the filter element (21) has been placed in its functional position within at least one of the housing parts (1, 11), can the housing parts (1, 11) be connected to form the filter housing of a functional filter device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: HYDAC FILTERTECHNIK GMBH
    Inventor: Micha Kreibig
  • Filter device and analysis device using same
    Patent number: 9533245
    Abstract: A filter device of the present disclosure includes at least a sheet-shaped fiber structure having a plurality of fibers made of amorphous silicon dioxide, wherein the plurality of fibers are tangled and thus connected together to form voids in the sheet-shaped fiber structure. A filter device of the present disclosure corresponds to an analysis device including: a substrate; a flow path formed on the substrate; and a sheet-shaped fiber structure provided on the inner wall of the flow path, wherein the sheet-shaped fiber structure includes a plurality of fibers made of amorphous silicon dioxide, and the plurality of fibers are tangled and thus connected together to form voids in the sheet-shaped fiber structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masaya Nakatani, Hiroaki Oka, Daniel Yazbeck, Takeki Yamamoto, Takahiro Nogami
  • Oil separator
    Patent number: 9533246
    Abstract: An oil separator is provided with a casing having an inlet for air and an outlet for air, an expansion chamber for expanding air introduced therein through the inlet, an accommodation member communicating with the expansion chamber in the vertical direction, a collected liquid storage portion provided below the accommodation member, and a connecting hose having an oil separator connection end for being connected to the inlet and an air dryer connection end for being connected to an air dryer. The connecting hose is configured such that the oil separator connection end is located higher than the air dryer connection end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: NABTESCO AUTOMOTIVE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takuya Sugio, Ichiro Minato
  • Method and apparatus for micro-hydrocyclone purification for flue gas carbon dioxide capture system
    Patent number: 9533247
    Abstract: Provided are a method and an apparatus for micro-hydrocyclone purification for a flue gas carbon dioxide capture system. The method comprises: performing gas-liquid micro-hydrocylone separation with ultralow pressure drop on scrubbed flue gas, to remove aerosol particulates entrained in the flue gas; performing gas-liquid micro hydrocyclone separation with ultralow pressure drop on off-gas vented from the top of an absorption column, to remove entrained aerosol particulates; performing gas-liquid micro hydrocyclone separation with ultralow pressure drop on cooled regeneration gas, to remove entrained aerosol particulates; and performing liquid-solid and liquid-liquid two-stage micro-hydrocyclone separation on a mixed amine solution lean for carbon dioxide discharged from regeneration column, to remove entrained solid particulates and machine oil.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignees: Shanghai Huachang Environmental Protection Co., Ltd, Research Institute of Nanjing Chemical Industrial Group
    Inventors: Hualin Wang, Songbai Mao, Qisong Shen, Ning Ye, Yanhong Zhang, Jiangang Wang, Ling Shen, Xin Cui
  • Organo-amine acid gas adsorption-desorption polymers, processes for preparing same, and uses thereof
    Patent number: 9533248
    Abstract: An adsorption-desorption material, in particular, crosslinked organo-amine polymeric materials having a weight average molecular weight of from about 500 to about 1×106, a total pore volume of from about 0.2 cubic centimeters per gram (cc/g) to about 2.0 cc/g, and an adsorption capacity of at least about 0.2 millimoles of CO2 adsorbed per gram of adsorption-desorption material, and linear organo-amine polymeric materials having a weight average molecular weight of from about 160 to about 1×106, a total pore volume of from about 0.2 cubic centimeters per gram (cc/g) to about 2.0 cc/g, and an adsorption capacity of at least about 0.2 millimoles of CO2 adsorbed per gram of adsorption-desorption material. This disclosure also relates in part to processes for preparing the crosslinked organo-amine materials and linear organo-amine materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: EXXONMOBIL RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING COMPANY
    Inventors: Dennis G. Peiffer, David C. Calabro, Quanchang Li, Mobae Afeworki, Stephen M. Cundy
  • Organo-amine acid gas adsorption-desorption polymers, processes for preparing same, and uses thereof
    Patent number: 9533249
    Abstract: An adsorption-desorption material, in particular, crosslinked organo-amine polymeric materials having a weight average molecular weight of from about 500 to about 1×106, a total pore volume of from about 0.2 cubic centimeters per gram (cc/g) to about 2.0 cc/g, and an adsorption capacity of at least about 0.2 millimoles of CO2 adsorbed per gram of adsorption-desorption material, and linear organo-amine polymeric materials having a weight average molecular weight of from about 160 to about 1×106, a total pore volume of from about 0.2 cubic centimeters per gram (cc/g) to about 2.0 cc/g, and an adsorption capacity of at least about 0.2 millimoles of CO2 adsorbed per gram of adsorption-desorption material. This disclosure also relates in part to processes for preparing the crosslinked organo-amine materials and linear organo-amine materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: ExxonMobil Research and Engineering Company
    Inventors: Dennis G. Peiffer, David C. Calabro, Quanchang Li, Mobae Afeworki, Stephen M. Cundy
  • Sorbents for carbon dioxide reduction from indoor air
    Patent number: 9533250
    Abstract: A sorbent for CO2 reduction from indoor air from an enclosed space. In some embodiments, the sorbent comprises a solid support and an amine-based compound being supported by the support. The sorbent captures at least a portion of the CO2 within the indoor air. The sorbent may be regenerated by streaming outdoor air through the sorbent to release at least a portion of the captured CO2. The sorbent is structured to allow indoor air to flow therein with relatively low flow resistance and relatively rapid reaction kinetics. Regeneration may be performed at relatively low outdoor air temperatures, thereby minimizing the thermal energy required for regenerating the sorbent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Enverid Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Udi Meirav, Israel Biran
  • Control of vapor emissions from gasoline stations
    Patent number: 9533251
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a vapor recovery system for gas station that is capable of controlling vapor emission to less than 0.38 lbs/1000 gallons fuel dispensed. The system may include at least one canister containing adsorbents such as activated carbon, zeolite, activated alumina, silica, and other adsorbents for passive removal of hydrocarbon vapors in venting air. Additionally, the system may include a means to enhance vapor-liquid equilibrium in the ullage of the fuel tank and accordingly minimize vapor emission level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Ingevity South Carolina, LLC
    Inventor: Michael F. Tschantz
  • Method of adsorptive gas separation using thermally conductive contactor structure
    Patent number: 9533252
    Abstract: A method of adsorption allows separation of a first fluid component from a fluid mixture comprising at least the first fluid component in an adsorptive separation system having a parallel passage adsorbent contactor with parallel flow passages having cell walls which include an adsorbent material. The method provides for transferring heat from the heat of adsorption in a countercurrent direction along at least a portion of the contactor during adsorption and transferring heat in either axial direction along the contactor to provide at least a portion of the heat of desorption during a desorption step. A carbon dioxide separation process to separate carbon dioxide from flue gas also includes steps transferring heat from adsorption or for desorption along the parallel passage adsorbent contactor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: INVENTYS THERMAL TECHNOLOGIES INC.
    Inventors: Andre Boulet, Soheil Khiavi
  • Amine solvent blends
    Patent number: 9533253
    Abstract: A process of mixing methyldiethanolamine to water to produce a first mixture. 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol is added to the first mixture to form a second mixture. The second mixture is then heated while mixing to form a third mixture. Piperazine is then added to the third mixture to form a solvent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Phillips 66 Company
    Inventors: Frederick Bynum Closmann, David Hamilton Van Wagener, Clint Aichele
  • Crosslinked polymer compositions, gas separation membranes of such crosslinked polymer compositions, methods of making such membranes, and methods of separating gases using such membranes
    Patent number: 9533254
    Abstract: Gas separation membrane compositions including at least one crosslinked polymer, gas separation membranes made of such compositions, methods for making such gas separation membranes, and methods of using such membranes to separate gases are described. In one embodiment, the crosslinked polymer includes polyarylene ethers (PAE).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignees: Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties, Inc., Board of Regents, The University of Texas System
    Inventors: James McGrath, Yu Chen, Rulian Guo, Benny Freeman
  • Method and apparatus for removing mercury from gas
    Patent number: 9533255
    Abstract: A process for removing mercury from a process gas includes: (i) reacting mercury vapor present in the process gas with mercuric chloride dissolved in a scrubbing solution so as to form a suspension containing mercurous chloride; and (ii) settling the mercurous chloride out of the suspension. Chlorine is injected into the suspension before the settling step (ii) so as to form a reaction solution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: OUTOTEC (FINLAND) OY
    Inventor: Klaus Hasselwander