Patents Issued in February 21, 2017
  • Patent number: RE46313
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Northern Tool & Equipment Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Travis Johnson, David Anderson
  • Patent number: RE46314
    Abstract: A method of preparing genipin-rich materials from the fruit of Genipa americana fruit for their use as a cross-linking agent and as a raw material to produce colors is disclosed. The genipin-rich materials can be used in a broad range of applications including personal care, cosmetics, dietary supplements, packaging, textiles, beverages, foodstuffs, drugs, and animal feeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: WILD Flavors, Inc.
    Inventors: Shaowen Wu, Gregory Horn
  • Patent number: RE46315
    Abstract: A method and system of forming large-diameter SiC single crystals suitable for fabricating high crystal quality SiC substrates of 100, 125, 150 and 200 mm in diameter are described. The SiC single crystals are grown by a seeded sublimation technique in the presence of a shallow radial temperature gradient. During SiC sublimation growth, a flux of SiC bearing vapors filtered from carbon particulates is substantially restricted to a central area of the surface of the seed crystal by a separation plate disposed between the seed crystal and a source of the SiC bearing vapors. The separation plate includes a first, substantially vapor-permeable part surrounded by a second, substantially non vapor-permeable part. The grown crystals have a flat or slightly convex growth interface. Large-diameter SiC wafers fabricated from the grown crystals exhibit low lattice curvature and low densities of crystal defects, such as stacking faults, inclusions, micropipes and dislocations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: II-VI Incorporated
    Inventors: Ilya Zwieback, Thomas E. Anderson, Andrew E. Souzis, Gary E. Ruland, Avinash K. Gupta, Varatharajan Rengarajan, Ping Wu, Xueping Xu
  • Patent number: RE46316
    Abstract: A waste heat recovery system includes a high pressure turbine and a low pressure turbine, in which the high pressure turbine receives high pressure working fluid vapor, the low pressure turbine receives low pressure working fluid vapor and the high pressure turbine also supplies low pressure working fluid vapor to the low pressure turbine. A recuperator receives working fluid vapor from the low pressure turbine. The recuperator produces heated condensate, at least a portion of which is provided to a high pressure vaporizer. The high pressure vaporizer is configured to receive from a high temperature heat source and produces high pressure working vapor used to power the high pressure turbine. The remaining condensed fluid is provided to a low pressure vaporizer which is configured to receive heat from a low-temperature heat source, thereby producing low pressure working fluid vapor used to power the low pressure turbine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: ORMAT TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventors: Uri Kaplan, Josef Sinai, Lucien Bronicki
  • Patent number: RE46317
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is directed to a method for reporting position information. Position information received from a plurality of capacitive sensors in an array of capacitive sensors is adjusted based on predetermined adjustment values to generate adjusted position information. Each predetermined adjustment value is associated with at least one of the plurality of capacitive sensors. A signal representative of the adjusted position information is generated. In another embodiment, the sensitivity of at least one of the capacitive sensors is adjusted based on the position of the at least one capacitive sensor within the array.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: MONTEREY RESEARCH, LLC
    Inventor: Ryan D. Seguine
  • Patent number: RE46318
    Abstract: Colored fluids for electrowetting, electro fluidic, or electrophoretic devices, and the devices themselves, are disclosed. The colored fluid can include a nonaqueous polar solvent having (a) a dynamic viscosity of 0.1 cP to 50 cP at 250 C, (b) a surface tension of 25 dynes/cm to 55 dynes/cm at 250 C, and (c) an electrowetting relative response of 40% to 80%. Such colored fluids further include a colorant selected from a pigment and/or a dye. In another embodiment, the colored fluid can include a non-polar solvent and an organic colorant selected from a pigment and/or a dye. Such colored fluids can be black in color and have a conductivity from 0 pS/cm to 5 pS/cm and a dielectric constant less than 3. The use of the colored fluids offers improvements in reliability, higher levels of chroma in the dispersed state, and the ability to achieve higher contrast ratios in display technologies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Sun Chemical Corporation
    Inventors: Jason C. Heikenfeld, Russell Schwartz, Lisa Clapp, April Milarcik, Stanislav G. Vilner
  • Patent number: RE46319
    Abstract: The present invention provides methods and systems for providing real-estate information using a computer network, such as the Internet. A buyer information web page showing relevant buyer list information in an easy-to-read, summary format is created and displayed to a real estate agent. Buyer information provided includes summaries of various aspects of information needed by a real estate agent to effectively represent and assist a buyer. Examples of information provided include a potential buyer name, a new activity summary summarizing newly-listed properties and other activity meeting the buyer's profile, a new views summary summarizing any views of detailed property information by the buyer using an online property data search and information system provided by the agent, and a new tags summary summarizing any properties that the buyer or the agent finds of particular interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Listingbook Holdings, LLC
    Inventors: Robert N. Milman, Joan Milman, Peter Andrews
  • Patent number: 9572296
    Abstract: An agricultural implement for supporting a plurality of gangs of disk blades extending generally laterally relative to a forward travel direction. The implement has carrier frames pivotally connected to wheel assemblies for controlling the height of the carrier frames relative to the ground through hydraulic actuators acting on the wheel assemblies. The hydraulic control unit enables independent and individual control of each actuator. An electronic control unit (ECU) receives displacement signals from the actuators and stores the signals when the agricultural implement is on a reference surface for synchronized set points. Thereafter any deviation from the synchronized set point is corrected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: CNH Industrial Canada, Ltd.
    Inventors: James W. Henry, Tracey D. Meiners
  • Patent number: 9572297
    Abstract: A floating manure agitator that floats on the surface of a manure lagoon and that may be remotely controlled to agitate manure supernatant into a slurry with sludge settling on the bottom of the lagoon. The agitator is provided with a plurality of fluid outputs, the direction of which may be controlled to motivate and steer the agitator. The outputs are angled to develop vortices of supernatant into the sludge to further mix the materials into a slurry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Puck Custom Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Benny D. Puck
  • Patent number: 9572298
    Abstract: A mower includes: a left panel positioned on a left side of a driver's seat. The driver's seat is positioned rearward of a mower unit. A display unit is arranged in an area of the left panel. A line linking a left front corner area of the mower unit and a top center portion of a seat back of the driver's seat passes through the display unit. The display unit is arranged so that a screen of the display unit faces the top center portion of the seat back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Masaki Takaoka, Masato Asahara
  • Patent number: 9572299
    Abstract: A bale discharge for an outlet of a baling chamber of an agricultural baler has a first segment and a second segment that are moveable between an extended operating position and a retracted transporting position, wherein a support structure is provided for supporting, in the retracted position, a component of the second segment, wherein the support structure includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventor: Peter Vanhoutte
  • Patent number: 9572300
    Abstract: Methods of transferring a plurality of plant somatic embryos to germination medium are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Weyerhaeuser NR Company
    Inventors: Amy M. Jamruszka-Lewis, Robert A. Starr
  • Patent number: 9572301
    Abstract: A switch-free multi-cutting mode shearing tool includes a shearer including a first handle and a second handle pivotally connected together, a cutter blade pivoted to the first handle, a link pivoted to the second handle, and a pushing element mounted at the second handle. The cutter blade has a cutting edge protruding over a front end of the first handle, an actuation portion projecting between the first and second handles, an elongated slot located in the actuation portion and a plurality of engagement grooves inside the elongated slot. The link has a pin located at a movable end thereof and inserted into and movable along the elongated slot and selectively engageable into one of the engagement grooves, such that when the first and second handles are closed toward each other, the pushing element is forced to touch and push the actuation portion of the cutter blade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Hwei-Rung Chou
  • Patent number: 9572302
    Abstract: A tool has a housing. A blade bar projects forwards from the housing along a longitudinal axis. An electric drive motor drives the blade bar. At least one battery supplies the drive motor with electrical energy. The blade bar, the drive motor and the battery are mounted on the housing. The tool has a top handle arranged above a center of gravity of the tool, and a rear handle arranged behind the tool center of gravity. The battery is arranged on the housing at least mainly in front of the rear handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Andreas Stihl AG & Co. KG
    Inventor: Heiko Rosskamp
  • Patent number: 9572303
    Abstract: The invention relates to a growth container (1) comprising: a receptacle (2) with a bottom part (3) having a plant receiving area (4), and a light source (6) for providing light to the plant receiving area (4). In order to obtain conditions optimal for growth, the light source (6) is elongated and arranged centrally in the plant receiving area (4) for being surrounded by plants (5) in the plant receiving area, and for producing light (18) to the growth container (1) at a plurality of different heights (h) above the bottom part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Fiskars Brands Finland Oy Ab
    Inventors: Jouni Salojärvi, Mika Sokka, Petteri Masalin
  • Patent number: 9572304
    Abstract: A solar-powered lighting/illumination fixture for hanging flower planters or potted flowers comprises a body that can be affixed through a central opening or the like to the hanging hardware of the planter. The lighting fixture has solar cells that charge internal batteries during daylight hours and drive lights that illuminate the planter during nighttime hours. The fixture can also be affixed with a spoke that will allow it to be supported in the ground to provide pathway lighting. The lighting is provided through LEDs which also may accommodate light filters that can provide different colors to change the mood of the setting, as well as being provided with an adapter to fit most hanging planters in the market and also provided with an attaching mechanism that allows the height of the lighting fixture above the planter to be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Jacob Harari
  • Patent number: 9572305
    Abstract: The invention relates to a phosphor diffusion sheet luminaire for agricultural lighting, comprising: a lamp shell; a light source unit; a disc body, mounted in the accommodating space and gripped on the inner wall of the lamp shell, where the disc body is provided with plural tanks at the side corresponding to the light source unit, and the tanks are randomly filled with plural phosphors; and a diffusion sheet, mounted in the lamp shell, and the side of the diffusion sheet corresponding to the disc body. The light ray passing through the diffusion sheet will irradiate the plant. And the wavelength of the light ray varies according to different ratio of the phosphors. Adequate wavelengths are gained by means of light transmission, refraction and absorption, which is beneficial to control the growth of plant.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: NATIONAL CENTRAL UNIVERSITY
    Inventor: Ching-Cherng Sun
  • Patent number: 9572306
    Abstract: The present invention provides a planting box device composed of at least a modular frame, which further comprises a frame set, a connecting rod group, wherein the frame set includes a first frame and a second frame; the first frame has a bearing plate, four corners of which are positioned by first openings and first posts and which also forms a plurality of positioning openings; the second frame having a sink forms second openings and second posts on its four corners, wherein the second posts are accommodated with the first openings in size and the sink has an inlet and an outlet; the connecting rod group comprises a plurality of connecting rods, each of which has rod openings and rod posts, so that the composition of the planting box device described above has function of structural expansion in horizontal and vertical direction and thus provides convenience in assembly and disassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventors: Yi-Cheng Chiang, Hero Chen
  • Patent number: 9572307
    Abstract: Examples of the present disclosure are related to systems and methods to redirect vertical growth of flowering plants. In embodiments, a portable growing system may redirect vertical growth of plants in a late vegetative stage and in an early flower stage. This may allow lower budding sites positioned within the portable growing system to receive substantially the same amount of light as higher budding sites positioned within the portable growing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: SCROGGER, LLC
    Inventor: Gary Alan Mermelstein
  • Patent number: 9572308
    Abstract: A field spraying device for spraying a liquid on a crop, includes a liquid supply tank, at least one spray boom extending from the device, the spray boom having a forward side facing the directional movement of the field spraying device in operation and an opposing rearward side, wherein the boom includes a liquid supply line connected to a plurality of nozzles along the length of the boom for spraying a field with the liquid. Further, there are a plurality of wind drift spoiler devices wherein each wind drift spoiler device is position adjacent each of the nozzles on the forward side of the spray boom. The wind drift spoiler devices include a downwardly depending deflector surface adjacent each of the nozzles. The wind drift spoiler device may also be equipped with a downwardly depending brush element, wherein the brush element is positioned to depend downwardly from the deflector surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: K-B Agri Tech, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Dale Beggs, Kurt William Kamin
  • Patent number: 9572309
    Abstract: An adjustable planter disk comprised of a circular disk constructed of a single resin composite sheet is disclosed. The sheet has a first terminating end that overlaps, or partially overlaps, a second terminating end. The sheet includes a peripheral edge and center hole. The first terminating end rotates overtop the second terminating end and latches thereto using a pair of hooks on the first terminating end and a series of corresponding holes on the second terminating end to create differing radii. The sheet is divided into a plurality of sectors, each sector including a living hinge that runs from the peripheral edge to the center that allows for the first terminating end to extend and contract. Additionally, along the peripheral edge of the circular are a plurality of water drainage holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Suncast Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Brian J. Russell, Michael R. Vogler, Michael Thuma
  • Patent number: 9572310
    Abstract: The embodiments herein relate to a method for delivering nutrients to the plants in a hydroponic system. The method comprises delivering a nutrient solution, planting a plurality of plants in a plurality of plant receivers, combining a plurality of angled joints with a single side of one plastic pipe with rest of the plastic pipes, combining a plurality of T-fitting/connectors with the plurality of plastic pipes, closing an end of the plastic pipes with a plurality of pipe caps and delivering water to the plurality of pipes using a customizable water pipe. The method further comprises adjusting the plurality of plastic pipes with an adjustable pipe brace and circulating the nutrient solution in the reservoir to the plurality of plant receivers using an electrical pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Zepplin Anderson
  • Patent number: 9572311
    Abstract: The present invention provides a transgenic soybean event MON87705, and cells, seeds, and plants comprising DNA diagnostic for the soybean event. The invention also provides compositions comprising nucleotide sequences that are diagnostic for said soybean event in a sample, methods for detecting the presence of said soybean event nucleotide sequences in a sample, probes and primers for use in detecting nucleotide sequences that are diagnostic for the presence of said soybean event in a sample, growing the seeds of such soybean event into soybean plants, and breeding to produce soybean plants comprising DNA diagnostic for the soybean event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Monsanto Technology LLC
    Inventors: Nicholas Wagner, Wen C. Burns, Eric J. Godsy, Peter D. Roberts
  • Patent number: 9572312
    Abstract: The invention relates to the field of Citrullus lanatus, in particular to a new variety of watermelon designated NUN 7201 WMW as well as plants, seeds and watermelon fruits thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Nunhem B.V.
    Inventor: Erik de Groot
  • Patent number: 9572313
    Abstract: A hybrid pepper designated ‘E20S1012777’ is disclosed. The invention relates to the seeds of hybrid pepper ‘E20S1012777’ to the plants of hybrid pepper ‘E20S1012777’ and to methods for producing a hybrid plant, and to methods for producing other pepper lines, cultivars or hybrids derived from the hybrid pepper ‘E20S1012777’.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: ENZA ZADEN BEHEER B.V.
    Inventor: Antonio Sances Lopez
  • Patent number: 9572314
    Abstract: Disclosed is the seed of a novel soybean variety, designated 09CR150126, a sample of which is deposited under ATCC Accession No. PTA-122787. Also disclosed are plants, or parts thereof, grown from the seed of the variety, plants having the morphological and physiological characteristics of the 09CR150126 variety, and methods of using the plant or parts thereof in a soybean breeding program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Agrigenetics, Inc.
    Inventor: William M. Campbell
  • Patent number: 9572315
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an ALS inhibitor herbicide tolerant B. napus plant, progeny and parts thereof comprising a non-transgenic mutation of an endogenous acetolactate synthase I gene and a non-transgenic mutation of an endogenous acetolactate synthase III gene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignees: BAYER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY GMBH, DEUTSCHE SAATVEREDELUNG AG
    Inventors: Rüdiger Hain, Günter Donn, Nathalie Knittel-Ottleben, Heinrich Busch, Carsten Oertel, Dieter Stelling
  • Patent number: 9572316
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH2DFM and seed, plants and plant parts thereof. Methods for producing a maize plant that comprise crossing maize variety PH2DFM with another maize plant. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH2DFM through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby. Hybrid maize seed, plant or plant part produced by crossing the variety PH2DFM or a locus conversion of PH2DFM with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Maryse Lafouasse
  • Patent number: 9572317
    Abstract: The present invention provides novel garden bean cultivar Pismo and plant parts, seed, and tissue culture therefrom. The invention also provides methods for producing a bean plant by crossing the bean plants of the invention with themselves or another bean plant. The invention also provides bean plants produced from such a crossing as well as plant parts, seed, and tissue culture therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Syngenta Participations AG
    Inventors: Daniel James Wahlquist, Bart Jason Wink, Douglas Keith Stuhlberg
  • Patent number: 9572318
    Abstract: A novel soybean variety, designated XBP05005R is provided. Also provided are the seeds of soybean variety XBP05005R, cells from soybean variety XBP05005R, plants of soybean XBP05005R, and plant parts of soybean variety XBP05005R. Methods provided include producing a soybean plant by crossing soybean variety XBP05005R with another soybean plant, methods for introgressing a transgenic trait, a mutant trait, and/or a native trait into soybean variety XBP05005R, methods for producing other soybean varieties or plant parts derived from soybean variety XBP05005R, and methods of characterizing soybean variety XBP05005R. Soybean seed, cells, plants, germplasm, breeding lines, varieties, and plant parts produced by these methods and/or derived from soybean variety XBP05005R are further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: John Gerard Van Herk
  • Patent number: 9572319
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH1VKM and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH1VKM with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH1VKM through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby are provided. Hybrid maize seed, plants or plant parts are produced by crossing the variety PH1VKM or a locus conversion of PH1VKM with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew Jon Ross
  • Patent number: 9572320
    Abstract: A novel maize variety designated PH2F59 and seed, plants and plant parts thereof are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant comprise crossing maize variety PH2F59 with another maize plant are provided. Methods for producing a maize plant containing in its genetic material one or more traits introgressed into PH2F59 through backcross conversion and/or transformation, and to the maize seed, plant and plant part produced thereby are provided. Hybrid maize seed, plants or plant parts are produced by crossing the variety PH2F59 or a locus conversion of PH2F59 with another maize variety.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: PIONEER HI-BRED INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventor: Andrew Jon Ross
  • Patent number: 9572321
    Abstract: New lettuce varieties designated ‘Ezrilla’, ‘Analora’, and ‘Anandra’ are described. ‘Ezrilla’, ‘Analora’, and ‘Anandra’ are lettuce varieties exhibiting stability and uniformity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Enza Zaden Beheer B.V.
    Inventors: Magali Lemont, Geertje Winsemius
  • Patent number: 9572322
    Abstract: A container is disclosed that is used to from a block of cheese having a brand marking. The container has dividers located on an internal side of a sidewall of the container. The block of cheese may be divided into slices of cheese where a slice of cheese has a brand marking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: LOS ALTOS FOOD PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventors: Raul Andrade, William J. Finicle
  • Patent number: 9572323
    Abstract: A recirculating pet fountain having a cover mounted on a basin in a manner that removably seats the cover on the basin. An inclined spillway of the cover has an intake-defining edge below water in the basin producing a spillway that also is a debris and detritus blocking barrier. The fountain includes at least one removable orifice insert having a mounting stem received in an opening in the cover and a head from which water exits. Interchangeable inserts can be provided with one insert directing a water stream out a nozzle onto the spillway or into water in a bowl disposed below the insert that can be a drinking well. Another insert can be a flow dividing insert splitting flow into a plurality of streams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Pioneer Pet Products, LLC
    Inventors: John M. Lipscomb, Qing He
  • Patent number: 9572324
    Abstract: An insecticide impregnated strip configured for convenient and reliable attachment to conventional animal ear tags. The insecticide strip comprises an elongated integrally molded member having a key-hole shaped aperture formed in an upper portion thereof, enabling the elongated strip to be pendularly suspended from the ear tag. Various methods are disclosed for attaching the strip to different types of known ear tags.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Y-TEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Joe D. Kellerby, Michael G. Fletcher
  • Patent number: 9572325
    Abstract: The present disclosure is for an adjustable leash that can quickly and easily be converted to a restraining harness that helps to inhibit the unwanted movement of the dog or other animal walking on the leash. In some embodiments, the leash is adjustable without the use of any tools and can be adapted to fit quadrupeds of a variety of sizes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Theresa G. Silva
  • Patent number: 9572326
    Abstract: A poultry feeder with beak growth control device is provided. In one embodiment, the feeder includes a feeder pan, a feeder tower, and a beak grooming ring. The grooming ring is removably inserted in the feeder and has an annular shape complementary configured to engage a corresponding shape of the feeder pan. Preferably, the grooming ring has a self-supporting structure that retains its complementary shape to the feeder pan independently of the pan when removed therefrom. The grooming ring is insertable and removable from feeder as a separable unit from the feeder and operable to abrade the beak while the birds feed, thereby controlling its growth and length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Valco Companies, Inc.
    Inventor: Frederick W. Steudler, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9572327
    Abstract: A colony basket and method of using the same for handling poultry from DOC through the growing process and on to a production facility comprising a harvesting system, a loading system, a transport system, an unloading and storing system, hanging system and cleaning system. The system and method performs the steps of harvesting and colonizing live poultry into a singly stackable and transportable colony basket, stacking and loading the trays on a transport, unloading and temporarily storing the poultry for subsequent processing. The system and method further includes the use of a modular colony basket for interchangeable use with the described system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Tyson Foods, Inc.
    Inventors: Doug Foreman, Stephen Brannan, James A. Ruff, David Lee Mantooth, Kevin W. Guernsey, Timothy J. DeRoche, Brian R. Lee
  • Patent number: 9572328
    Abstract: An improved bait-fish trap includes a cylindrical, mesh shell having a continuous outer wall, an upper end and an open lower end. The shell houses a mesh entrance cone having a lower base that is concentric with the open lower end of the shell, and an upper vertex in communication with an overlying entrapment chamber. At the upper end of the shell is a releasable hatch for accessing bait fish within the entrapment chamber. Attached to the hatch is a buoyant light for luring bait fish from the entrance cone into the entrapment chamber until they are removed via the releasable hatch. A buoyant tube is circumferentially secured to the inner surface of the upper end so that the shell remains afloat whenever the hatch is opened to retrieve captured bait fish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Clyde W Head
  • Patent number: 9572329
    Abstract: A fishing hook is plated with, coated with, or contains an antimicrobial substance to treat the impalement wound of a fish caused by the hook. Specifically the hook includes at least one shank; at least one bend that extends from the shank; at least one point defined by a free end of the bend, wherein the fish hook contains a substance whose purpose is to minimize infection and to treat the puncture wound of a fish that is caught. The substance optionally acts to sterilize the hook to reduce the entrance of microbes into the wound when the puncture occurs. The substance may also contain an anti-inflammatory or a pain reliever to reduce the suffering of the fish or of others accidentally injured by the hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Samuel P Hopkins
  • Patent number: 9572330
    Abstract: A fish hook with at least four barbs specially configured to neutralize the strike of the sheepshead fish, and increase the strike/catch ratio, is described herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Derek J. White
  • Patent number: 9572331
    Abstract: A variable depth fishing lure preferably includes a hollow body, an adjustable bill, a spring pin, a spring retainer and at least one hook. The hollow body preferably includes a first body half and a second body half. At least two horizontal bill slots are formed on a front of the hollow body to receive the adjustable bill. The spring pin is pivotally engaged with the adjustable bill. The spring retainer is pivotally retained in the hollow body. The spring pin is inserted into the spring retainer and through a compression spring. The opposing end of the spring pin is terminated to retain the compression spring. A hooking device preferably includes a multi-position line eyelet, a hook line and at least one hook. The hook line extends from the multi-position line eyelet and at least one hook extends from an opposing end of the hook line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Andrew J. Reyment
  • Patent number: 9572332
    Abstract: A multi-segmented, soft-bodied, artificial fishing lure or swim bait with a natural profile includes plastic control planes in each body segment to generate a lure that is stable in the water, and demonstrates realistic swimming motions in a range of retrieve speeds and even when allowed to sink. At least one clear, stiff plastic control plane is inserted in each body segment to generate a lifelike swimming motion when the lure is retrieved. Each control plane may be moved within a range of positions to provide realistic motions for specific fishing techniques. The control planes inserted into and sometimes through the lure body are invisible in the water and are adjustable to accommodate a range of water conditions, densities and temperatures. The placement of control planes create the ability to limit unnatural/undesirable movements and expand or accentuate natural and desirable movements in each segment of the body of the lure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Dominion Lures, Inc.
    Inventors: George Coniglio, Marc Estrada
  • Patent number: 9572333
    Abstract: A resiliently flexible grip for fishing rods has a hollow tubular main body and includes a retaining band that wraps around the fishing rod, which keeps the flexible grip fixed to a trigger of a fishing rod. The main body conforms to any shape of the trigger and compresses uniformly to provide a custom fit on the trigger. The grip, during use, compresses and conforms to the individual user's finger and hands providing comfort while fishing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Loren Pernell Jenkins
  • Patent number: 9572334
    Abstract: Provided is a fishing reel equipped with a hidden line stopper. The fishing reel includes: a frame; a shaft mounted on the frame; a spool fitted on the shaft to keep a fishing line wound thereon; a first side cover disposed at a side of the frame and capable of opening to separate the spool; a second side cover coupled to the frame at the opposite side to the first side cover; a locker having a locking rod for locking and unlocking by moving forward and backward through the frame and the first side cover, and a grip disposed at the first or second side cover and connected to the locking rod; and a line stopper formed at the locking rod to be hidden or exposed when the locking rod is moved forward and backward to open and close the first side cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: DOYO ENGINEERING CO., LTD
    Inventor: Kang Ho Hyun
  • Patent number: 9572335
    Abstract: A non-transitory computer-readable medium having stored thereon computer-executable instructions which, when executed by a computer, cause the computer to receive a first notification that a first cast has been made. The computer-executable instructions may further include instructions, which cause the computer to receive data regarding a video input. The computer-executable instructions may further include instructions, which cause the computer to receive a second notification that a second cast has been made. The computer-executable instructions may further include instructions, which cause the computer to delete a portion of the data regarding the video input that is associated with the first cast in response to receiving the second notification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: NAVICO HOLDING AS
    Inventor: Paul Robert Bailey
  • Patent number: 9572336
    Abstract: A horseshoe connected to a hoof of a horse for use on different surfaces without removing the horseshoe from the horse. The horseshoe includes an insert removably connected to the horseshoe. The insert may be positioned within a recess located on the bottom surface of the horseshoe. The insert may have a toe grab for providing traction. A related method of inserting a toe grab to a horseshoe without removing the horseshoe from a horse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: FOUR SCORNED, LLC
    Inventors: Kenney C. Sledd, Mark A. Taulbee
  • Patent number: 9572337
    Abstract: A mite propagation inhibiting sheet has a sheet layer, an adhesive layer, and an unwoven fabric layer wherein mites are allowed to invade from a surface of the unwoven fabric layer to which an adhesive is not adhered, thereby forming a colony and the mites are trapped by an adhesive of the adhesive layer when the mites invade deep in the unwoven fabric layer by instinct, and further, a method of manufacturing a mite propagation inhibiting sheet, and a method of inhibiting the propagation of mites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: KAMOI KAKOSHI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kuniaki Komoda, Takaya Kitano
  • Patent number: 9572338
    Abstract: Dual action lethal containers, systems and methods and novel compositions and formulas which are used to kill mosquitoes and their larvae. Generally pyramid shaped containers can have combined interior larvacidal and adultacidal coatings above and below a side opening in the container. A removable inclined grate cap can also allow for mosquitoes to enter into the container. Inclined stacked walls inside the container form attractive surfaces for mosquitoes to breed. Water-holding containers, such as flower pots, water holding dishes used under plant pots, vases, bird baths, and fountains and storm water inlets, can be coated with novel larvicide and/or adulticide coatings. Small objects can be coated with larvicide or larvicide and adulticide combination, which can be dropped in water-holding containers which can leach out pesticide over time which prevents mosquitoes from breeding in the water-holding containers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip G. Koehler, Roberto M. Pereira, Enrico Paolo Levi