Patents Issued in February 21, 2017
  • Patent number: 9574348
    Abstract: Various implementations of tubular composite beams (TCB's) are disclosed. The TCB's of the present disclosure may have improved formability, increased strength, reduced weight, better producibility or a combination of the foregoing. Furthermore, the composites tubular structures of the present disclosure may have greater strength to weight ratios than prior art composites.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Charles Dwight Jarvis
  • Patent number: 9574349
    Abstract: A post-tensioning wrap includes a housing having at least one cavity and at least one tendon bonded to the housing. The wrap can be wrapped around the concrete article to equalize compression. Thereafter, a medium is injected into the cavity causing the housing to swell and compression of the concrete article by the tendon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Hawkeye Pedershaab Concrete Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Claudio Subacchi
  • Patent number: 9574350
    Abstract: A sealant composition for roofing shingles that includes a base asphalt, a linear and/or a radial copolymer, oil, and a wax is provided. The linear copolymer has an A-B di-block or an A-B-A tri-block structure. The radial copolymer may have an (A-B)n radial structure, where n is at least 4, or a tri-block (A-B-A) radial structure having from 4 to 8 arms. Blocks A and B may individually represent (1) styrene and butadiene or (2) styrene and isoprene. The oil is a petroleum-based oil that both “softens” the asphalt and reduces the viscosity of the sealant composition. The wax may be a bis-stearamide wax. Additionally, the sealant composition may be reacted with elemental sulfur to crosslink the copolymer blend. The sealant composition seals at temperatures lower than conventional sealants and promotes the easy release of the shingle from a shingle bundle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Owens Corning Intellectual Capital, LLC
    Inventors: James E. Loftus, Donn R. Vermilion, Jason D. Guerra
  • Patent number: 9574351
    Abstract: A standing seam panel for interlocking engagement with adjacent standing seam panels. The standing seam panel includes a strip of sheet material having a central panel portion, a male sidelap portion, and a female sidelap portion sized and contoured to receive the male sidelap portion of an adjacent standing seam panel. The female sidelap portion includes a first latch flange engaged with the male sidelap portion and the male sidelap portion includes a second latch flange engaged with the female sidelap portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Mazzella Holding Company, Inc
    Inventors: Ron Karr, Adam Binderup
  • Patent number: 9574352
    Abstract: Improved building-integrated photovoltaic systems according to certain example embodiments may include concentrated photovoltaic skylights or other windows having a cylindrical lens array. The skylight may include an insulated glass unit, which may improve the Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). The photovoltaic skylight and lens arrays may be used in combination with strip solar cells. Arrangements that involve lateral displacement tracking systems, or static systems (e.g., that are fixed at one, two, or more predefined positions) are contemplated herein. Such techniques may advantageously help to reduce cost per watt related, in part, to the potentially reduced amount of semiconductor material to be used for such example embodiments. A photovoltaic skylight may permit diffuse daylight to pass through into an interior of a building so as to provide lighting inside the building, while the strip solar cells absorb the direct sunlight and convert it to electricity, providing for SHGC tuning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Guardian Industries Corp.
    Inventors: Willem Den Boer, Jian-gang Weng, Eric Walter Akkashian, Vijayen S. Veerasamy, Scott V. Thomsen
  • Patent number: 9574353
    Abstract: A baluster is provided. The baluster includes a body portion. A width of an end portion of the body portion is less than a width of a central portion of the body portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: INTEX MILLWORKS SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph F. Umosella
  • Patent number: 9574354
    Abstract: A panel, which, at two opposite edges, is provided with coupling parts that allow joining by a downward movement, said coupling parts including a male part that fits in a female part, wherein vertically active locking portions are provided at opposite sides of the male part and female part, wherein these locking portions are located at different distances from an upper side of the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: PERGO (EUROPE) AB
    Inventor: Charles Edward Stevens, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9574355
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a tile or panel having at least one magnetic material embedded therein, and fully or partially covered with at least one layer of parchment. The invention also encompasses at least one discrete permanent magnet that is placed at an appropriate location within a panel or tile, and wherein at least a portion of the panel or tile and the at least one magnet are then optionally covered with at least one layer of at least one barrier material, and then at least one parchment layer partially or fully envelopes this assembly. The inventive tile having at least one magnetic type material can have at least one indicia or design on at least one surface, and the inventive tile can be magnetically attached to a wall or another panel having at least one magnetic type material to form a wall or panel surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Jesse Karl Meyer
  • Patent number: 9574356
    Abstract: A vehicle and method for tending to an elevated livestock cage includes a support frame, a base, a drive unit, and an elevated platform. The support frame extends upward from the base, and the drive unit is operatively attached to the base for moving the base along the aisle. The elevated platform is affixed to the support frame and is positioned above the base at a height suitable to facilitate access to the elevated livestock cage. The support frame and the elevated platform are configured to support an operator while moving the operator along an aisle of a confinement facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Cruiser Products, LLC
    Inventors: Brian Andrew Jutte, Michael Timothy McCain
  • Patent number: 9574357
    Abstract: Various implementations described herein are directed to a scaffold bracket. In one implementation, the scaffold bracket may include a mounting bracket having a first face and a second face opposite of the first face. The scaffold bracket may also include a first scaffolding node attached to the first face and configured to couple to a first member. The scaffold bracket may further include a second scaffolding node attached to the first face and configured to couple to a second member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Apache Industrial Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Burt Hulett, David Bretherton
  • Patent number: 9574358
    Abstract: A form system for a fiberglass or vinyl-lined swimming pool utilizes an elongate pliable form, a bracket, a spear, and a button mounted on the spear to secure the bracket in position against the form. The bracket and form are shaped and dimensioned such that when the bracket placed against the form, it conforms to the form, it is automatically properly positioned to receive the spear, to support the form in the desired position with respect to the bracket, and to generate a compression vector, VC, which frictionally secures the bracket to the wall of the swimming pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Ted E Deason
  • Patent number: 9574359
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an arrangement having a supporting structure having a surface containing (e.g., consisting of) one or more faces, wherein a bore runs from at least one face into an inner region of the supporting structure, and this bore is filled with an adhesive and with a portion of a fibre bundle projecting beyond said face, wherein, on the at least one face, from which the bore runs into an inner region of the supporting structure, the supporting structure is provided with at least one groove which, starting from the bore, extends in at least one direction on the surface, and the projecting part of the fibre bundle is located, at least in part, in the at least one groove and is fastened therein by way of the adhesive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: SIKA TECHNOLOGY AG
    Inventor: Thierry Berset
  • Patent number: 9574360
    Abstract: A wave pool for generating surfable waves is disclosed. The wave pool includes a pool for containing water. The pool defines a channel having a first side wall, a second side wall, and a bottom with a contour that slopes upward from a deep area proximate the first side wall toward a sill defined by the second side wall. The wave pool further includes at least one foil at least partially submerged in the water near the side wall, and being adapted for movement by a moving mechanism in a direction along the side wall for generating a wave in the channel that forms a breaking wave on the sill. The wave pool further includes one or more passive flow control mechanisms to mitigate a mean flow of the water induced by the movement of the at least one foil in the direction along the side wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: KELLY SLATER WAVE COMPANY, LLC.
    Inventors: Adam Fincham, Kelly Slater
  • Patent number: 9574361
    Abstract: A spa cover lifting device that easily lifts and stows the removed cover out of sight below the upper edge of the spa is disclosed. When closing, the lifter assists the cover up out of its hidden stowage, and guides the cover back into position on the spa. One difference in this design from current art is that the spa cover when stowed disappears out of sight to those in the spa, below the top edge of the spa. Current spa cover lifters generally all park at least part of the stowed cover above the top edge of the spa, blocking views and reducing apparent roominess. Fourteen exemplary methods are shown to accomplish such a spa cover lifter, accommodating different size spas and cover designs, but it could also be done in other ways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Curtis Richard Dose
  • Patent number: 9574362
    Abstract: An inflatable swimming pool includes a floor and a number of walls defining a pool interior configured to receive water. A drawing board is integrally formed or otherwise coupled to the pool and includes a selectively inflatable frame configured to securely hold a drawing surface configured to enable a user of the pool to draw or write on the drawing board while playing in the pool. A drawing utensil may be provided with the drawing board such as a water soluble crayon. A water sprayer assembly may be integrally formed with or coupled to the pool and include a port connectable to a water source and configured to deliver water from the water source to a sprayer element configured to spray water into the pool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Bestway Inflatables & Material Corp.
    Inventor: Jiachen Zhu
  • Patent number: 9574363
    Abstract: A method (100) for handling chassis is disclosed. The method (100) can include: providing (110) a multi-level structure including a plurality of levels including a first level with an opening to receive a chassis and a second level; locating (120) a plurality of shelves adjacent to the opening including a port shelf and a starboard shelf, each configured to receive a chassis; and providing (130) an transfer mechanism configured to pick a chassis and place it on one of the plurality of shelves. The method allows compact storage, stacking and retrieving and inventorying of chassis, for enhanced logistics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Mi-Jack Products, Inc.
    Inventors: John J. Lanigan, Sr., John J. Lanigan, Jr., Antonio Carlos Callado de Souza, Myron Glickman, Ralph Swanson, Ken Svihlik, William P. Healy
  • Patent number: 9574364
    Abstract: A seismic isolation apparatus is provided between a structure and a foundation floor, and the seismic isolation apparatus includes: a support plate that is provided so as to face the structure at a predetermined interval; a base plate that is fixed to the foundation floor; and an elasto-plastic damper that is provided between the support plate and the base plate to be fixed to the support plate and the base plate. The elasto-plastic damper includes an inner cylinder inside which an elasto-plastic member is provided and an outer cylinder, and the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder are configured to mutually slide in an axis direction thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOSHIBA
    Inventors: Hiroshi Katayama, Urara Watanabe, Gaku Nakamura, Yoshitaka Nihira, Tetsuharu Tanoue
  • Patent number: 9574365
    Abstract: A clamp arrangement includes a pair of brackets adapted to be clamped on opposing sides of the wooden post to encapsulate a fractured portion, each bracket is made from an integral sheet of metal cut and pressed to define a longitudinal hemispherical chamber and a pair of longitudinal flanges extended out from each, the longitudinal hemispherical chamber having an upper end wherein a lip is supported in the lateral extension by a multitude of pressed out ribs such that when the clamp arrangement is required to be driven into the ground about the wooden post, the lip provides a support location for an impact tool to drive the clamp arrangement into the ground.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: OCVITTI PTY LTD
    Inventors: Nigel Catt, Brian O'Malley
  • Patent number: 9574366
    Abstract: Described is a control structure for unfolding and folding a collapsible device or shelter. The control structure includes a sliding seat that is pivotally connected to adapter members, which are in turn connected to poles, e.g., tent poles. The tent poles are also pivotally connected to a lower support, and a resilient member (e.g., a spring) forces a separating between the sliding seat the the lower support. The resilient member biases the sliding seat toward the lower support to maintain the control structure in an unfolded position when open, and in a folded position when closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Campvalley (Xiamen) Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Kwan Jun Choi
  • Patent number: 9574367
    Abstract: Aspects are directed to a collapsible privacy structure that has a low profile when in an un-deployed state to preserve the sight lines of observers. The collapsible privacy structure may then be deployed causing a canopy structure to extend upwardly forming an internal volume that provides privacy and seclusion to the user of the structure. The internal volume may be used for a bathroom, a shower, a medical evaluation/treatment space, and/or a changing space. Upon the departure of the user from the internal volume, the collapsible privacy structure may return to the low profile nature provided by the undeployed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Tinker L. Hatfield, Bryan N. Farris, William M. Dieter
  • Patent number: 9574368
    Abstract: An erectable canopy framework comprising a base frame and a roof frame. The roof frame is operative to support a canopy above the base frame and is removably mountable to the base frame. The base frame includes a plurality of upright support members, a plurality of cross members, each interconnecting adjacent upright support members, and a plurality of mounts disposed on the upright support members. Each mount includes a mount opening and each cross member includes a scissor assembly to permit movement of the base frame between expanded and a collapsed states. The mounts are operative to fasten the cross members to the upright support members. The roof frame includes a plurality of rafters each connectable to a corresponding mount opening. The framework comprises a plurality of rafter fittings each adapted for insertion into a corresponding mount opening and connectable to a corresponding rafter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: KD KANOPY, INC.
    Inventor: Matt Kayser
  • Patent number: 9574369
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a system for storing commodities is provided. The system may include a tarpaulin. The tarpaulin may further have an internal strapping. In accordance with one embodiment, a method for storing commodities is provided. The method may include providing a tarpaulin. In one embodiment, the method for storing commodities may include configuring the tarpaulin to provide internal strapping.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: J & M Industries Inc.
    Inventors: Donald J. Gaudet, Jr., Aaron Gummer
  • Patent number: 9574370
    Abstract: A modular privacy fence, which includes a stringer having two rails, wherein at least the first rail comprises a plurality of fence picket dividers that protrude in a perpendicular direction from the first rail. The modular privacy fence also includes a fastener attached to the end of the stringer, wherein the fastener is arranged to secure the stringer to a fence post, and a bottom rail with a trough. In some embodiments, the second rail may also include a separate plurality of fence picket dividers that protrude from the second rail in a direction perpendicular to the second rail and parallel to the first plurality of fence picket dividers. In such arrangements, the first plurality of fence picket dividers is offset from the second plurality of fence picket dividers in a direction parallel to the first rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Kelly Presti
  • Patent number: 9574371
    Abstract: Four embodiments of a novel display assembly as a door handle are described. The first embodiment is used with a cable conduit and associated electrical wire, and comprises an outrigger and a handle having a display accessory. The second embodiment does not require an electrical wire. Like the first embodiment, the second embodiment comprises an outrigger and a handle having a display accessory. The third embodiment uses an inset handle for opening and a flat surface for a sticker advertisement with no cover. The fourth embodiment is a display case door handle accessory with a recessed panel for holding advertising material. Finally, a method is described for performing a retrofit install of the first and second embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Wild August LLC
    Inventor: Larry English
  • Patent number: 9574372
    Abstract: An intelligent door lock system includes components, a drive shaft of a lock device, a processor coupled to a wireless communication device, and an energy source coupled to a circuit. A device that converts energy into mechanical energy is coupled to the circuit and the drive shaft. The device that converts energy is coupled to the energy source to receive energy from the energy source. A ramp-up speed, a steady state speed and a ramp down speed are applied to the device that converts energy into mechanical energy. The ramp-up speed is applied when a first component initially engages with a second component. The steady state speed is applied following the initial engagement and is an operational speed that the device which converts energy uses during a standard operation mode. The ramp down speed is applied as the first and second components begin a state of non-engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: August Home, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason Johnson, Shih Yu Thomas Cheng, Kuy N. Mainwaring
  • Patent number: 9574373
    Abstract: The present disclosure discloses a padlock, comprising a lock cylinder and a lock housing. The lock cylinder is rotatable between a lock position and an unlock position with rotation of a key. The a lock housing comprises a sleeve shaped to fit with and for receiving the lock cylinder, a first prong extending outward from the sleeve and having a first recessed portion and a second prong extending outward from the sleeve and having a second recessed portion; wherein when the lock cylinder is rotated into the lock position/the unlock position, the through holes are aligned with the first recessed portion/the second recessed portion, the first pins/second pins are movable in the through holes and the first recessed portion/the second recessed portion, allowing the removal of the key from the keyhole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Vastmax Corporation Limited
    Inventor: William Ng
  • Patent number: 9574374
    Abstract: The restroom stall occupancy indicator system includes a latch coupled to a stall door and movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. A sensor is responsive to selected positioning of the latch and communications the position information to a transmitter. The transmitter then relays the position information to a receiver coupled to an indicator. The indicator, in turn, is responsive to the received position information to provide a first visual identification when the latch is in the unlocked position and a second visual identification when the latch is in the locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Modus Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Allen Klevens, Todd Bermann, Laura Hazard
  • Patent number: 9574375
    Abstract: An electronic lock includes a lock mechanism, an actuator coupled to the lock mechanism and configured to lock and release the lock mechanism, and an actuator control circuit coupled to the actuator. The electronic lock also includes a battery electrically coupled to the actuator, a super capacitor electrically coupled to the battery, and a processor coupled to the actuator, the battery, and the super capacitor. The processor is configured to selectively receive power from the battery and the super capacitor, wherein the processor receives power from the super capacitor when a state of charge of the battery is below a predetermined voltage threshold, and provide control signals to the actuator control circuit to control operation of the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Kevin Henderson
  • Patent number: 9574376
    Abstract: An electromechanical lock includes a lever coupled with a locking mechanism configured to receive mechanical power from an user, and to output the mechanical power to mechanically disengage the locking mechanism provided that a support of the fulcrum is in an open position, and a return mechanism for the support of the fulcrum including a reset spring whose other end is configured to, during the reception of the mechanical power from the user, move past the support of the fulcrum with the mechanical power outputted by the lever, and, finally, force the support of the fulcrum with the mechanical energy outputted by the return spring through the lever back to a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: ILOQ OY
    Inventor: Jyrki Kananen
  • Patent number: 9574377
    Abstract: A group of embodiments for enabling the replacement of damaged shackles for multiple types of portable locks is disclosed. The embodiments have the ability to alter the shackle size and configuration for multiple types of portable locks by substituting one type of shackle with a different shackle, with no tools or special skills required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: MyTouch ID, LLC
    Inventors: Glenn McGinnis, John Coyne, Scott McGinnis
  • Patent number: 9574378
    Abstract: A lock for an electronic device having a lock hole includes a lock core, a fastener, and an adapter, wherein the lock core is operable and rotatable about a first axis; the fastener is connected to the lock core and is shifted away from the first axis. The adapter is connected to the lock core and the fastener. The rotation of the lock core about the first axis drives the adapter to drive the fastener to rotate about a second axis, When the lock core is locked, the locked lock core restricts the fastener from rotating, when the lock core is unlocked, the fastener is operable to rotate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: SINOX CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chia Ming Wu, Chun-Sheng Wu
  • Patent number: 9574379
    Abstract: A motor vehicle door lock comprising a locking mechanism (1, 2), an actuating lever unit (3, 4, 16), which interacts with the locking mechanism (1, 2), a drive (6, 7, 8, 9) impinging upon the actuating lever unit (3, 4, 16) and an anti-theft protection device (10, 11), wherein a buffer member (12, 13) is assigned to the actuating lever unit (3, 4, 16) and to an unlocking lever (5) which interacts with the actuating lever unit (3, 4, 16), the buffer member being controlled by the anti-theft protection device (10, 11) in accordance with the desired functional position of the locking mechanism (1, 2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Kiekert Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Christian Barmscheidt
  • Patent number: 9574380
    Abstract: An opening and closing apparatus of a luggage room for a vehicle may include a latch configured to be coupled with a luggage room door of a vehicle and provided with a locking hook, a housing configured to have a space part formed therein, a striker configured to have one portion penetrating through the housing, be provided with a locking part locked or unlocked to or from the latch, and have another portion provided with an extension extending in a left and right direction of the vehicle from a lower portion of the locking part to insert the extension into the space part of the housing, and an elastic member configured to be provided in the space part of the housing and formed to enclose an outside of the extension of the striker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Beom Jung Kim
  • Patent number: 9574381
    Abstract: A door handle assembly for a motor vehicle includes an operating handle, a mechanical coupling device, and a locking device attached to a handle mounting. An acceleration force can block an actuation of the closing assembly via the operating handle and/or the coupling device so that an unintended unlatching of the door closure during a vehicle accident is prevented. The locking device has a locking element, which is movably coupled to the mechanical coupling device by a connecting element, such that, a pivotal movement of the mechanical coupling device will rotate the locking element about a rotational axis. The locking element includes at least one locking member which is designed to block the rotational movement of the locking element when a predetermined displacement speed of the operating handle has been exceeded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Huf Huelsbeck & Fuerst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Beck, Dirk Muller, Christian Bresser
  • Patent number: 9574382
    Abstract: A pull handle (1) for a lock of a vehicle door or lift gate featuring a pull handle housing (1a) having a bearing part (2) and a handle part (3) connected so as to swivel around a swivel axis between non-actuated and actuated positions. An actuation mechanism (4) mounted in the pull handle housing (1a) and can be actuated by the handle part (3). A coupling element (56) mounted in the pull handle housing (1a) couples with external lock elements. A locking mechanism (5) locks and unlocks the actuation mechanism (4). The coupling element is displaceable in the bearing part along an actuation axis (209), perpendicular to the swivel axis, and connected to the handle part (3) for linear movement in the actuation direction (204) parallel to the actuation axis (209).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: D. La Porte Söhne GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Behnke, Viktor Komkin
  • Patent number: 9574383
    Abstract: A self-locking hinge for agricultural machine panels includes a receptacle configured to slidingly receive an insert along a receiving axis. A hinge with fixed and movable portions and pivot axis transverse to the receiving axis is connected to the insert. A locking retainer is connected to the movable portion and engages an opening in the receptacle as the movable portion is moved toward a first position corresponding with panel closure. Engagement of the locking retainer in the opening precludes movement of the insert portion along the receiving axis. Moving the hinge in an opposite direction disengages the locking retainer from the opening and permits sliding movement of the insert. The locking retainer further includes an arcuate surface configured to engage an edge of the opening which may further be eccentrically arranged about the hinge axis to enable the locking retainer to move the insert into a desired position as the hinge is moved toward the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: CNH Industrial America LLC
    Inventors: Eric L. Walker, Brian P. Crow
  • Patent number: 9574384
    Abstract: Each of two turret-shaped modules has a generally hemispherical configuration facing outwardly and a disk-shaped flange facing inwardly. The flanges are similarly configured with a planar surface and circular periphery. An axial bore extends centrally through each module parallel with the planar surfaces for receiving and supporting first and second cylindrical objects. A V-band encompasses the flanges with the planar surfaces in contact with each other. The clamp includes a rotatable member to loosen and tighten the clamp. In this manner, the flanges and modules are rotated and fixed with respect to the received and supported cylindrical objects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventors: Michael J. Reischmann, Nigel G. Jones
  • Patent number: 9574385
    Abstract: A power boost assembly is disclosed that can be used with a door actuator, such as a door closer. The power boost assembly is structured to store an energy during a first movement of a door and release the stored energy during a second movement of the door. In one form the power boost assembly can be structured as a module that can be added to an existing door and door closer installation. In one form the power boost assembly is used to increase a closing force imparted to a door to ensure a latching event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Schlage Lock Company LLC
    Inventors: Aaron Patrick McKibben, Brian Christopher Eickhoff
  • Patent number: 9574386
    Abstract: A tailgate of a motor vehicle has an opening apparatus configured to avoid overshooting during opening of the tailgate. The opening apparatus is connected to a silicone damper to bring about a damping action in the opening direction and a freewheeling action in the closing direction. Additionally, the opening apparatus is configured so that closing of the tailgate and lock actuation are not impeded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: DR. ING. H.C.F. PORSCHE AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Klaus Hillgaertner, Sven Just
  • Patent number: 9574387
    Abstract: An apparatus having a controller will initiate an obstacle detector alignment mode. An annunciation system of the apparatus effects a first annunciation mode in response to a receiving component of an obstacle detection system receiving a signal transmitted from a transmitting component of the obstacle detection system. The annunciation system effects a second annunciation mode in response to the receiving component of the obstacle detection system not receiving the signal transmitted from the transmitting component of the obstacle detection system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas Jason Jankovsky, Tracy Michelle Tryboski
  • Patent number: 9574388
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a control system for driving a motorized closure element arrangement of a vehicle, wherein at least one linear distance sensor, is provided in order to detect operator control events in the form of operator movement cycles, wherein, as part of an operator control event monitoring process, a control arrangement monitors the at least one distance sensor in order to check whether a predetermined operator control event is present, wherein a longitudinal movement of a body part of an operator in the longitudinal direction can additionally be detected by means of the at least one distance sensor. It is proposed that the control arrangement detects a predetermined longitudinal movement cycle, which runs in the longitudinal direction, of a body part of an operator as an operator control event as part of the operator control event monitoring process and drives the closure element arrangement in response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG, Hallstadt
    Inventor: Frank Ebert
  • Patent number: 9574389
    Abstract: A line belt driven retrofittable door opener includes a motor, a drive link, an output link, and at least one flexible link. The at least one flexible link includes at least one flexible line link. The drive link is connected to the motor. The output link is connected to the arm of the door. The at least one flexible link interconnects the drive link with the output link. Wherein, the motor is configured for opening the door by rotating the drive link, which in turn rotates the output link via the at least one flexible link, which in turn rotates the arm, thereby opening the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Eon Enterprises LLC
    Inventors: Peter C. Menze, Stephen R. Lang, Matthew P. Jewell
  • Patent number: 9574390
    Abstract: New techniques for safeguarding valuables in a recreational, public setting are provided. In some aspects of the invention, a specialized portable safe is configured for insertion and securing into sand or other loose ground particles, with at least one removal-resisting edge or anchor. The edge or anchor may be shaped to facilitate insertion into the ground, but resists removal until switched for release by an authorized user. In further aspects, the invention comprises a tamper-detecting alarm. In other aspects, a compartment access door permits the placement and removal of valuables from a compartment of the safe, even when the safe is installed in the ground. In still other aspects of the invention, new wireless locking, unlocking and alerting techniques are provided. In some embodiments, computer hardware and tracking tags and beacons are provided, and trigger locking, unlocking and location alerts to aid a user in locating the safe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Christopher V. Beckman
  • Patent number: 9574391
    Abstract: A closure mechanism for an electromagnetically sealed measuring station, which comprises a test chamber, a door for closing the test chamber, and an electromagnetic seal, which is fitted to a door frame of the test chamber. The door is moved initially in a linear manner away from the test chamber and after that pivoted in a rotating movement. The closure mechanism according to the invention then seals a measuring station electromagnetically if an electromagnetic seal is fitted in a peripheral groove in the doorframe of the test chamber, and the door provides a peripheral rebate, which engages in the groove in the doorframe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Rohde & Schwarz GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Hammer, Alexander Bartsch, Hermann Muhr
  • Patent number: 9574392
    Abstract: A louvre blade retention system for use in a louvre windows system, the retention system including a louvre end clip mounted relative to a louvre channel, the louvre end clip having at least one longitudinal recess therein to receive an end portion of a louvre blade and at least one transverse opening, a louvre blade having at least one opening therethrough in the end portion and a retaining member adapted to be received through the aligned at least one transverse opening in the louvre end clip and the at least one opening through the louvre blade in order to fix the louvre blade to the end clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Breezway Australia (Holdings) Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Edwin John Alexander
  • Patent number: 9574393
    Abstract: A cord-winding device for a blind assembly having no pull cord includes a base seat defining a slide channel and having a bottom side configured to removably mount the blind assembly thereto, and an adjustment unit including a slide seat mounted slidably in the slide channel, a plurality of rollers mounted on the base seat and the slide seat, respectively, and a constant force spring having first and second ends respectively fixed to the base seat and the slide seat. A lift cord winds around the rollers and extends through the base seat. The lift cord is configured to extend through the blind assembly after extending through the base seat so as to be positioned to the base seat and the blind assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: Ya-Ling Huang
  • Patent number: 9574394
    Abstract: A window curtain includes a first curtain body and multiple second curtain bodies attached to the first curtain body. The first curtain body allows light to penetrate therethrough. Each second curtain body has a connection edge formed on the top edge thereof so as to be connected to the first curtain body. Multiple first magnet units and multiple second magnet units are connected to the rear side of each second curtain body. The rear side faces the first curtain body. When folding either of the second curtain bodies relative to the first curtain body, the first and second magnet units are magnetically attracted to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: CHING FENG HOME FASHIONS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sheng Ying Hsu, Wen Ying Liang
  • Patent number: 9574395
    Abstract: An apparatus in accordance with the invention includes a gearbox assembly configured to electromechanically operate a window covering. A controller, incorporated into the window covering, is provided to control the gearbox assembly. A security device, such as a camera, motion sensor, audio sensor, proximity sensor, impact sensor, or the like, communicates with the controller and is configured to monitor security at a window associated with the window covering. Such a security sensor may, for example, monitor opening and/or closing of the window, breaking of the window, or the like. In certain embodiments, operation of the window covering is triggered in response to conditions sensed by the security device. A corresponding method is also disclosed herein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventor: David R. Hall
  • Patent number: 9574396
    Abstract: A spring drive system includes a housing, an extendible window cover coupled with the housing, and at least one lift cord coupled to the cover for raising and lowering the window cover. A spring drive system comprises a first spring drive spool spaced apart from a second spring drive spool and at least one spring having a storage end coupled to one of the spring drive spools and an output end coupled to the other of the spring drive spools. A first cord spool has a first cord spool axis. The lift cord extends from the first cord spool to the window cover for assisting in raising and lowering of the cover, and the spring drive system affects rotation of the first cord spool about the first cord spool axis and has no external hand-operated control cord input to raise and lower the window cover.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Inventors: Russell L. Hinckley, Sr., Robert F. Miller
  • Patent number: 9574397
    Abstract: The invention relates to a curtain security structure driven by a bead chain, comprising an upper assembler, a lower assembler, and flexible support parts to be assembled correspondingly. A lower rotary wheel of the lower assembler is engaged with an upper rotary wheel of the upper assembler. The two flexible support parts are inserted from the bottom of the lower assembler to assemble the upper and the lower assemblers. An upper bead chain and a lower bead chain are entwined and disposed in upper and lower bead pockets respectively via pockets disposed on struts of the flexible support parts. When children improperly use the curtain security structure and thus are entwined by the lower bead chain and struggle, the lower bead chain, the lower assembler and the flexible support part can simultaneously detach from the upper assembler to prevent the children from being damaged to achieve the safe protection effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2017
    Assignee: Chen Tian Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ching-Hsiang Cheng