Patents Issued in January 26, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170022006
    Abstract: A waste container includes a body having a base and a side wall extending upward from the base to define a container interior. A lid is hingeably secured to an upper portion of the side wall. A latch assembly selectively secures the lid to the side wall, the latch assembly including a rotatable latch portion having a latch member selectively interlocking with a hook portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Derick Foster
  • Publication number: 20170022007
    Abstract: A cover is engaged in a track. The track surrounds a refuse container along a perimeter on at least three sides. The track is independent of the refuse container and not affixed to the refuse container. The cover is adapted to be expanded from one side of the track to expand and cover a top opening of the refuse container. The cover is also adapted to be retracted along the track when expanded back to the one side of the track to uncover and expose the top opening of the refuse container.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Osama El-Atari
  • Publication number: 20170022008
    Abstract: In a method of compacting waste (W), wherein waste is introduced into a generally box shaped elongated waste container (3) through at least one waste inlet (5) thereof and is collected in the waste container (3) at a waste collection station (4), the container is positioned with a generally rectangular bottom wall (3 A) thereof on an inclined surface (7) of the waste collection station, thereby tilting the container and its bottom wall, and releasably securing the container in the tilted position. A waste collection facility (13) of the waste collection station (4) is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: Envac AB
    Inventor: Jonas TÖRNBLOM
  • Publication number: 20170022009
    Abstract: A method and a device for moving objects (44) on shelves (14;16) of a storing systems by operating a shuttle (42) between a plurality of ends of said shelves comprising the steps of engaging a first strip (30) at a first side of a support head (46) of said shuttle, engaging a second strip (30?) at a second side of said support head of said shuttle (42) opposing said first side, and displacing said shuttle (42) along said shelves (14;16) by pushing and retracting said strips (30, 30?).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Bo Lindblom
  • Publication number: 20170022010
    Abstract: A system for transporting inventory items includes an inventory holder capable of storing inventory items and a mobile drive unit. The mobile drive unit is capable of moving to a first point with the inventory holder at least one of coupled to and supported by the mobile drive unit. The mobile drive unit is additionally capable of determining a location of the inventory holder and calculating a difference between the location of the inventory holder and the first point. The mobile drive unit is then capable of determining whether the difference is greater than a predetermined tolerance. In response to determining that the difference is greater than the predetermined tolerance, the mobile drive unit is also capable of moving to a second point based on the location of the inventory holder, docking with the inventory holder, and moving the mobile drive unit and the inventory holder to the first point.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Raffaello D'Andrea, Peter K. Mansfield, Michael Cordell Mountz, Dennis Polic, Patrick R. Dingle
  • Publication number: 20170022011
    Abstract: A magnetic lifting device for bodies (Z) comprises an input transport device (10) for transporting lying bodies (4), a transport device (12) for transporting lifted bodies (9) hanging at the transport device (12) and arranged above the input transport device (10) and a control device (13). A first magnet arrangement (1) which is activated and deactivated by the control device (13) is arranged below the input transport device (10) in such a way that a body (4) lying on the input transport device (10) is magnetically held in a releasable way on the input transport device (10). A second magnet arrangement (2) is arranged above an area of the input transport device (10), in which the bodies are transported, and is formed in such a way that a body lying on the input transport device (10) is lifted by the magnetic field of the second magnet arrangement (10) when the magnetic field of the first magnet arrangement (1) is deactivated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: Soudronic AG
    Inventors: Pascal GAUCH, Peter TAIANA
  • Publication number: 20170022012
    Abstract: A spiral conveyor system with a positive drive system includes a rotating drum with at least one rib that is attached to drum. The rib includes a drive face for engaging a conveyor belt. The height of the rib above of the surface of the drum varies along a length of the drive element. The rib may be directly attached to the drum or may be a part of a drive element attached to the drum. The conveyor belt includes at least one belt surface configured to engage the at least one drive face, such as a protruding tab with a flat surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Darroll Joseph Neely, Bryan Hobbs
  • Publication number: 20170022013
    Abstract: A continuous conveyor such as, for example, a conveyor belt for transporting heavy bulk materials or unit loads comprises an endless tractive transport mechanism that revolves between a driving roller and a return roller. The driving roller is driven by a permanently excited multi-pole synchronous motor that delivers a very high torque at a comparatively slow nominal speed. The synchronous motor can drive the driving roller directly or alternatively via a single-stage step-down gear with low reduction factor. The drive is characterized by a mass moment of inertia that is up to 10-times lower than in conventional drive systems. In this way, the risk of damaging or even tearing the belt during disruptions is substantially reduced such that the operational reliability significantly increases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: Caterpillar Global Mining Europe GmbH
    Inventor: Sepp Lachenmaier
  • Publication number: 20170022014
    Abstract: A conveying-traveling-body-utilizing conveying device links conveying traveling bodies to each other where load bars are continuous to each other. A linked part is provided at one end of the load bar, and a linking hook is provided at the other end which can engage with and disengage from the linked part. The linking hook is pivotally supported and is vertically movable between a pre-engagement orientation separated upward from the linked part, with respect to an engaged orientation of covering the linked part from above, and a standby orientation tilted to a lowering limit from the engaged orientation by an urging force. When the linking hook is in the standby orientation, longitudinally adjacent conveying traveling bodies can approach each other to a connected state, where the respective load bars are abutted against each other, without the linking hook in the standby orientation and the linked part contacting each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Kiyoshi Shiki, Yoshifumi Yasuda
  • Publication number: 20170022015
    Abstract: Techniques are described with regard to determining and controlling a location and status of assets directly and/or indirectly. The techniques may be used to track and control the respective locations and status of any number of objects. Applications include but are not limited to tracking dry and refrigerated trailers and their status in a supply-chain yard; tracking pallets and boxes and their status in a warehouse; tracking items in a retail environment; tracking finished goods and work in progress in and around a manufacturing plant; tracking vehicles in a parking lot; tracking cargo and equipment at an airport; tracking equipment in a lay down yard; etc. In all cases the laborious and error prone data gathering is replaced with automated data collection methods reducing cost, increasing accuracy, and increasing efficiency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Aleks GÖLLÜ
  • Publication number: 20170022016
    Abstract: A bag configured to contain and transport bulk material includes at least one through-hole positioned at an upper portion of the bag to facilitate ingress/egress of a hoist-member of a hoisting machine. Other embodiments include a spout located at a bottom-side portion of the bag or at a base of the bag, and inserts placed at a base of the bag to form a desired contour to generate a gradient by which the material may flow. The inserts may be temporarily placed at the base or permanently affixed thereto. Further embodiments may include a contoured base without the use of inserts to generate the gradient. Methods of use include stacking and handling the bags without requiring an operator in addition to the one operating the hoisting machine or requiring the hoist machine operator to interrupt operation of the hoist machine to rig the bag to the hoist machine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Richard James
  • Publication number: 20170022017
    Abstract: A truck ramp including a first ramp element, second ramp element and pivoting structure located between the first and second ramp elements. The first ramp element is coupled to the truck at one end and at the other end, a hinge. The second ramp element is hinged at one end and at the other end interfaces with the ground or other surface. Between the first and second ramp elements is a pivoting structure comprised of a first component that is mechanically coupled to the first ramp element at the first hinged end and a second component that is mechanically coupled to the second ramp element at the hinged end. The first component and the second component are rotatable about an axis orthogonal to the first and second ramp element hinges.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Michael Lopez
  • Publication number: 20170022018
    Abstract: A sheet transport device includes a feeding unit that feeds out a sheet from a sheet stack unit, a driving shaft that rotates the feeding unit, plural bearing members that support the driving shaft rotatably at plural positions in an axial direction and restrict movement of the driving shaft in the axial direction, and a fixing member provided integrally with each of the bearing members to removably fix each of the bearing members to an opening and closing member that is opened and closed relative to the sheet stack unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: FUJI XEROX Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Koda, Takakiyo Toba, Masato Serikawa, Takato Kato
  • Publication number: 20170022019
    Abstract: A sheet supply device detachably attachable to an image forming apparatus includes: a main body; a sheet supply roller; an external output gear; a clutch mechanism; and first and second transmission mechanisms. The main body is provided with a sheet supply tray on which a sheet is mountable. The sheet supply roller is in contact with a sheet mounted on the sheet supply tray and configured to rotate to supply the sheet toward the image forming apparatus. The external output gear is configured to output a driving force to an outside. The clutch mechanism is configured to transmit and interrupt a driving force from the image forming apparatus. The first transmission mechanism is configured to transmit the driving force received through the clutch mechanism to the sheet supply roller. The second transmission mechanism is configured to transmit the driving force received through the clutch mechanism to the external output gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Masahito SAEKI
  • Publication number: 20170022020
    Abstract: An apparatus for winding straps comprises a motor having a shaft extending therefrom to a distal end, the shaft being rotatable thereby along a shaft axis and having a slot extending longitudinally therealong from the distal end. The apparatus further comprises a spool guide located proximate to the distal end of the shaft adapted to retain a strap on the shaft and a strap guide extending parallel to and spaced apart from the shaft axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: MONSTER DEVICES INC.
    Inventor: Ryan Wynn Evans
  • Publication number: 20170022021
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method and apparatus for passing a web tail being threaded from one paper machine section to another by way of guiding the tail with the help of an air jet from a transfer plate. An essential feature of the invention is to employ a construction rising from the surface of the transfer plate to a height with the shape of a linear ramp or a droplet for guiding the web tail in its travel direction thereby minimizing the contact area between the web tail and the transfer plate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: RUNTECH SYSTEMS OY
    Inventors: Kimmo LOIPPO, Antti ELO
  • Publication number: 20170022022
    Abstract: A drum storage module (50, 60) for receiving notes of value (16) has a winding drum (14) onto which the notes of value (16) are windable so as to be received between at least two foil belts (18 to 24). Further, a sensor for determining the maximum filling level of notes of value in the drum storage module (50, 60) is provided and has a light source (32) and a light receiver (34) arranged such that the beam path (36) from the light source (32) to the light receiver (34) extends parallel to the longitudinal axis (38) of the winding drum (14).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas Kemmerling
  • Publication number: 20170022023
    Abstract: A waterproof rolling paper dispensing apparatus which comprises an inner cylinder which is closed at one end and open at an opposite end thereof. The inner cylinder has an elongate slit and supports a cutting edge which facilitates cutting of a length of rolling paper from a continuous roll of rolling paper accommodated within the inner cylinder. An exterior housing is dosed at one end and open at an opposite end thereof. The exterior housing defines an internal storage compartment which stores the inner cylinder. An end cover releasably engages with the open end of the exterior housing and forms a waterproof seal therewith. The end cover also releasably engages with the open end of the inner cylinder so that when the end cover is removed from engagement with the exterior housing, the inner cylinder remains coupled to the end cover and is removed with the end cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Jacob Thomas LITTLEJOHNS
  • Publication number: 20170022024
    Abstract: An electric cord storage device is provided. The electric cord storage device includes an elongate member, a first retaining member having a notch and a second retaining member having a notch. The elongate member is coupled between the first retaining member and the second retaining member. The device includes a handle coupled to a side of the second retaining member opposite to and inline with the elongate member. The notch of the first retaining member or the second retaining member retains and isolates an end of an electric cord and the elongate member receives the electric wound around the elongate member. The other end of the electric cord is received, retained and isolated in the notch of the first retaining member or the second retaining member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Lori Susan Rishwain, Ben Michael Rishwain
  • Publication number: 20170022025
    Abstract: An assembly in which a button is secured to a badge reel, the assembly comprising a first structure configured to hold the button against a side of the badge reel and a second structure configured to prevent the button from being sheared from the side of the badge reel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Darcy BURNER, Henry BURNER, Michael BURNER
  • Publication number: 20170022026
    Abstract: A hose reel device is provided with features for enhancing the functionality and ease of use of the device. The device comprises a drum provided with a frame member and at least one extension adapted for cleaning, winding, guiding, or elevating an elongate flexible hose that may be provided in combination with the device. The device also comprises various modular features such that the device may be modified for particular applications and based on the preferences of the end user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 25, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Gerardo Angel Gonzalez Chapa, Alberto Azael Espinoza Trevino, Shawn Wright
  • Publication number: 20170022027
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a position of an elevator in a hoistway includes a fixed belt and a dynamic leveling control module adapted for attachment to the elevator and coupled to the fixed belt. The control module includes a position encoder coupled to the fixed belt, a processor electrically connected to the position encoder, and a communications interface electrically connected to the processor and adapted for communication with an elevator controller for the elevator. The control module determines a velocity, a position, and an acceleration of the elevator in response to a count signal output from the position encoder, and calculates a dynamic slowdown distance relative to an elevator landing for each elevator stop. The control module communicates the dynamic slowdown distance to the elevator controller to initiate slowdown of the elevator. The control module determines a new value of said dynamic slowdown distance for each elevator stop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Steve Romnes
  • Publication number: 20170022028
    Abstract: A method for operating an elevator installation uses an elevator control device, wherein, by at least one sensor allocated to the elevator installation and by a sensor signal obtainable therefrom, a state of the elevator installation is automatically detected by the elevator control device. In dependence on the detected state, the elevator control device automatically generates an activation signal to automatically activate a remote signaling element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Elena Cortona, Frankie Schmid
  • Publication number: 20170022029
    Abstract: A belt for suspending and/or driving an elevator car of an elevator system includes a plurality of tension members spaced from each other along a width of the belt and extending longitudinally along a length of the belt. A jacket at least partially envelopes the plurality of tension members and forms at least one outer belt surface along a width of the belt. A groove is located in the at least one outer belt surface extending longitudinally along the length of the belt.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Brad Guilani, Kathryn Rauss Sherrick
  • Publication number: 20170022030
    Abstract: A limiting mechanism for an elevator compensation rope tensioning pulley, an elevator compensation apparatus including the limiting mechanism for an elevator compensation rope tensioning pulley, and an elevator system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Hebin Bai, Zhixue Li
  • Publication number: 20170022031
    Abstract: An attic lift system is provided, comprising a loading platform attached to a lifting frame having a plurality of vertical frame members, wherein the lifting frame includes a closure member positioned below the loading platform. The closure member includes a plurality of telescopic guide members, wherein the support frame is positioned on an attic floor above an opening in the attic floor. A plurality of support rods extend from the closure member and are threadably engaged with the vertical frame members of the lifting frame. A drive assembly is positioned on the support frame and connected to the lifting frame for raising and lowering the loading platform relative to the opening. Limit switches are present to detect when the drive assembly should be stopped based on the position of the lift platform.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Darryl Roshto
  • Publication number: 20170022032
    Abstract: A low-construction hoist for a wire rope hoist is arranged to move along a lower flange of a horizontal beam or rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: KONECRANES GLOBAL CORPORATION
    Inventors: Teppo Lindberg, Henri Kokko
  • Publication number: 20170022033
    Abstract: The invention relates to a positioning zone (EB) for a travel path (1), wherein the travel path (1) has at least one guide rail (2, 3) and the guide rail (2, 3) is used to guide a current collector trolley (11), provided with current collector contacts (12), of a current collector system (10) arranged on a vehicle which can move along the travel path (1), and the travel path (1) has at least one travel path conductor bar (5), wherein the current collector trolley (11) can be moved horizontally and vertically to the travel path (1) in the positioning zone (EB) by a positioning device of the current collector system (10), characterised in that at least one further conductor bar (5?) is arranged in the region of the positioning zone (EB) or at least one travel path conductor bar (5) extends and/or is extended into the positioning zone (EB) beyond at least one guide rail (2, 3) of the travel path (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Michael RAABE, Thomas MULLER, Steffen WOYCZECHOWSKI
  • Publication number: 20170022034
    Abstract: A mobile crane includes a crane main body including a control valve which controls a supply flow rate of hydraulic oil to a main-body driving motor and a pilot-pressure control device which controls a pilot pressure supplied to the control valve. The pilot-pressure control device increases the pilot pressure at a first ratio according to an increase in an operation amount of an operation section when a counterweight carrier is an uncoupled state, increases the pilot pressure at a second ratio lower than the first ratio according to the increase in the operation amount when the counterweight carrier is a coupled state and a grounded state, and increases the pilot pressure at a third ratio higher than the second ratio and equal to or lower than the first ratio according to the increase in the operation amount when the counterweight carrier is the coupled state and an afloat state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: KOBELCO CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Takahiro IWAZAWA
  • Publication number: 20170022035
    Abstract: A mobile crane includes a counterweight carrier capable of traveling following a movement of a crane main body, the counterweight carrier including a carrier main body on which a counterweight is loaded and a wheel unit attached to the carrier main body and including wheels, a wheel driving device configured to rotate the wheels to thereby cause the counterweight carrier to travel, a loadage detector configured to detect a weight loadage index value, which is an index value of weight of the counterweight loaded on the carrier main body, and a controller configured to cause the wheel driving device to change a driving force of the wheel driving device for rotating the wheels such that the driving force increases as the weight loadage index value detected by the loadage detector increases.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: KOBELCO CONSTRUCTION MACHINERY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Takahiro IWAZAWA
  • Publication number: 20170022036
    Abstract: A crane includes a crane pillar supported rotatably about an axis, and a radial bearing for supporting the rotatable crane pillar in a base. The radial bearing is lower in an installation position of the crane pillar, and an upper radial bearing likewise supports the crane pillar in the base. The upper radial bearing is at a distance from the lower radial bearing along the axis. At least one chamber can be filled with oil and is provided for lubricating the upper radial bearing. A drive unit is provided for the crane pillar, and the drive unit drives the crane pillar between the upper radial bearing and the lower radial bearing. A driven region on the crane pillar is lubricated with oil by the chamber that can be filled with oil.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Eckhard WIMMER, Hannes STEINDL, Juergen WINKLER, Christoph ROECK, Walter HABERL
  • Publication number: 20170022037
    Abstract: A lifting system includes a base and an upright extending from the base. An articulating arm assembly is coupled to the upright. The articulating arm assembly has a platform coupled thereto. The lifting system further includes a prime mover. The prime mover engages the articulating arm assembly to elevate the platform to a desired height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Jason Mast
  • Publication number: 20170022038
    Abstract: A keg delivery system includes a rack having a plurality of bays for receiving kegs horizontally. The keg delivery system also includes means for controllably lowering a keg from one of the bays to a floor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: William P. Apps, Sean T. Ogburn, Ryan C. Meers, Paul Thomas Walton, Ian C. McDermott, Ronald Samuel Ward, Steven Alan Kitchin
  • Publication number: 20170022039
    Abstract: A pry bar tool including a lever shaft; a first end defining a U-shaped or V-shaped engagement portion configured to engage and exert force on a body to be removed from a surface; a curved fulcrum positioned between the elongated lever shaft and the first end; and a forearm handle positioned at a second end, the handle having a curved inner surface sized to receive a forearm and configured to receive a force exerted from said received forearm. The inner surface can include a coating, cushion, or insert to increase comfort and maximize force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Rodney Cooper
  • Publication number: 20170022040
    Abstract: A liquid dispensing device includes a liquid extraction system that extracts a liquid from a container. The liquid dispensing device includes an identification system that identifies a type of the liquid. The liquid dispensing device includes a liquid preservation system that prevents degradation of the liquid. The liquid may be wine or other liquids.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 7, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: David Andrew Koretz, Donald G. Hubbard, JR., Niculae Mustatea, Michael Dumont, Kyle Adams
  • Publication number: 20170022041
    Abstract: A beverage dispensing system includes a control system electrically connected with a beverage dispenser, a proximity sensor, and a touch-sensitive display. The control system causes the touch-sensitive display to display an advertising state when the proximity sensor indicates a user is not present at the beverage dispensing system and a beverage selection state when the proximity sensor indicates a user is present. The control system further causes the touch-sensitive display to display a pour state after a beverage choice selection is made through the touch sensitive display during the display of the beverage selection state. The control system still further causes the beverage dispenser to deliver the beverage choice after a pour request is made through the touch sensitive display during the display of the pour state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: Lancer Corporation
    Inventors: George E. Hernandez, Jeremiah A. Hong
  • Publication number: 20170022042
    Abstract: An automatic pump hydration delivery system includes a power source, master power switch, electric pump, timer delay module, pressure switch, backflow prevention structure (such as a one-way valve), conduit or tubing, bite valve, and may contain a reservoir or be retrofitted onto prior-art reservoirs or hydration bladders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 23, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Jason Daniel Lux, Karl Aaron Smith
  • Publication number: 20170022043
    Abstract: Systems and methods for dispensing a product are provided. A plurality of product ingredients are associated with a product dispenser that is operable to form a plurality of selectable products from the plurality of products ingredients. Input for a selected product is received and a recipe that defines the ratio of product ingredients for forming the selected product is identified. The dispense of each of the respective product ingredients is commenced based at least in part on the identified recipe, and the dispense of each of the respective product ingredients is independently monitored during the dispense of the selected product.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Applicant: THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
    Inventors: David Roy Newman, Paul Anderson Phillips
  • Publication number: 20170022044
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for collecting drips from a spout on a beverage dispenser has a table top base that is held in place by the weight of a beverage dispenser. The table top base supports a drip catch reservoir, and drips hit a back plate with guides before washing into the drip catch reservoir. The drip catch reservoir has an outlet allowing drainage into a disposal tank without moving the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Keith L. Davis
  • Publication number: 20170022045
    Abstract: Disclosed are various embodiments for dispensing product into refillable containers. A refill station is configured to provide initial fills and refills of a product in a refillable container. The refill station includes a display and a computing device. The computing device is configured to record refill data describing product refills by customers via the refill station. The computing device is further configured to determine one or more environmental impacts saved by the refill station over a use of non-refillable containers based at least in part on the refill data. The computing device is further configured to render the environmental impact(s) upon the display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Lorna G. Ray, David N. Ray
  • Publication number: 20170022046
    Abstract: A MEMS microphone component including at least one sound-pressure-sensitive diaphragm element is formed in the layer structure of the MEMS component, which spans an opening in the layer structure. The diaphragm element is attached via at least one column element in the central area of the opening to the layer structure of the component. The deflections of the diaphragm element are detected with the aid of at least one piezosensitive circuit element, which is implemented in the layer structure of the diaphragm element and is situated in the area of the attachment of the diaphragm element to the column element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Thomas BUCK, Fabian Purkl, Michael Stumber, Rolf Scheben, Benedikt Stein, Christoph Schelling
  • Publication number: 20170022047
    Abstract: Measures are provided, by which mechanical stresses within the diaphragm structure of a MEMS component may be intentionally dissipated, and which additionally enable the implementation of diaphragm elements having a large diaphragm area in comparison to the chip area. The diaphragm element is formed in the layer structure of the MEMS component. It spans an opening in the layer structure and is attached via a spring structure to the layer structure. The spring structure includes at least one first spring component, which is oriented essentially in parallel to the diaphragm element and is formed in a layer plane below the diaphragm element. Furthermore, the spring structure includes at least one second spring component, which is oriented essentially perpendicularly to the diaphragm element. The spring structure is designed in such a way that the area of the diaphragm element is greater than the area of the opening which it spans.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Fabian PURKL, Michael Stumber, Ricardo Ehrenpfordt, Rolf Scheben, Benedikt Stein, Christoph Schelling
  • Publication number: 20170022048
    Abstract: A method of forming a Micro-Electro-Mechanical System (MEMS) includes forming a lower electrode on a first insulator layer within a cavity of the MEMS. The method further includes forming an upper electrode over another insulator material on top of the lower electrode which is at least partially in contact with the lower electrode. The forming of the lower electrode and the upper electrode includes adjusting a metal volume of the lower electrode and the upper electrode to modify beam bending.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Christopher V. JAHNES, Anthony K. STAMPER
  • Publication number: 20170022049
    Abstract: The present disclosure includes micro-electro mechanical system (MEMS) structures and methods of forming the same. Substrates of the MEMS structures are bonded together by fusion bonding at high processing temperatures, which enables more complete removal of chemical species from the dielectric materials in the substrates prior to sealing cavities of the MEMS structures. Fusion bonding of MEMS structures reduces outgassing of chemical species and is compatible with the cavity formation process. The MEMS structures bonded by fusion bonding are mechanically stronger compared to eutectic bonding due to a higher bonding ratio. In addition, fusion bonding enables the formation of through substrate vias (TSVs) in the MEMS structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Chia-Hua CHU, Kuei-Sung CHANG, Te-Hao LEE
  • Publication number: 20170022050
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention describe hermetic encapsulation for MEMS devices, and processes to create the hermetic encapsulation structure. Embodiments comprise a MEMS substrate stack that further includes a magnet, a first laminate organic dielectric film, a first hermetic coating disposed over the magnet, a second laminate organic dielectric film disposed on the hermetic coating, a MEMS device layer disposed over the magnet, and a plurality of metal interconnects surrounding the MEMS device layer. A hermetic plate is subsequently bonded to the MEMS substrate stack and disposed over the formed MEMS device layer to at least partially form a hermetically encapsulated cavity surrounding the MEMS device layer. In various embodiments, the hermetically encapsulated cavity is further formed from the first hermetic coating, and at least one of the set of metal interconnects, or a second hermetic coating deposited onto the set of metal interconnects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 25, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Sarah K. HANEY, Weng Hong TEH, Feras EID, Sasha N. OSTER
  • Publication number: 20170022051
    Abstract: An integrated device package is disclosed. The package can include a carrier, such as first integrated device die, and a second integrated device die stacked on the first integrated device die. The package can include a buffer layer which coats at least a portion of an exterior surface of the first integrated device die and which is disposed between the second integrated device die and the first integrated device die. The buffer layer can comprise a pattern to reduce transmission of stresses between the first integrated device die and the second integrated device die.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Xiaojie Xue, Michael J. Zylinski, Thomas M. Goida, Kathleen O. O'Donnell
  • Publication number: 20170022052
    Abstract: Provided is a method for manufacturing a microchannel resonator capable of measuring a mass and characteristics of an object using a principle in which a resonance frequency is changed according to a mass of a moving material, the method including: providing a silicon substrate; forming a cavity channel inside the silicon substrate; forming a hollow silicon oxide structure on the inner wall surface of the cavity channel by oxidizing the inner wall surface of the cavity channel; and partially removing the periphery of the hollow silicon oxide structure such that the hollow silicon oxide structure can resonate with respect to the silicon substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2014
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Jung Chul LEE, Joo Hyun KIM
  • Publication number: 20170022053
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a wafer-level bonding packaging method, including: providing a plurality of first wafers and a plurality of second wafers, a to-be-bonded surface of a first wafer being a first to-be-bonded surface, a to-be-bonded surface of a second wafer being a second to-be-bonded surface, and the first to-be-bonded surface including a first region and a second region; forming at least one first bonding structure on the second region; forming at least one second bonding structure on a second to-be-bonded surface, the at least one second bonding structure corresponding to the at least one first bonding structure; and forming a supporting layer on the first region, a height of supporting layer being greater than a height of the first bonding structure and less than a sum of the height of the first bonding structure and a height of the second bonding structure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: WEI XU
  • Publication number: 20170022054
    Abstract: A micro-electro-mechanical system device is disclosed. The micro-mechanical system device comprises a first silicon substrate comprising: a handle layer comprising a first surface and a second surface, the second surface comprises a cavity; an insulating layer deposited over the second surface of the handle layer; a device layer having a third surface bonded to the insulating layer and a fourth surface; a piezoelectric layer deposited over the fourth surface of the device layer; a metal conductivity layer disposed over the piezoelectric layer; a bond layer disposed over a portion of the metal conductivity layer; and a stand-off formed on the first silicon substrate; wherein the first silicon substrate is bonded to a second silicon substrate, comprising: a metal electrode configured to form an electrical connection between the metal conductivity layer formed on the first silicon substrate and the second silicon substrate.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventors: Julius Ming-Lin Tsai, Michael J. Daneman
  • Publication number: 20170022055
    Abstract: A method for generating and for fusing ultra-dense hydrogen in which molecular hydrogen is fed into at least one cavity and catalyzed, where the splitting and subsequent condensation of the molecular hydrogen is initiated on a catalyst of the cavity to form an ultra-dense hydrogen. The ultra-dense hydrogen is exposed to pressure or electromagnetic radiation to initiate fusion of the ultra-dense hydrogen in the at least one cavity and the reaction heat is led out from the at least one cavity. The pressure as mechanical resonance or the electromagnetic radiation as electromagnetic resonance amplifies the field and therefore the effect. Also, an apparatus for carrying out the method is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2016
    Publication date: January 26, 2017
    Inventor: Bernhard Kotzias