Patents Issued in June 27, 2017
  • Patent number: 9688328
    Abstract: A compact overhead traveling hoist system for transferring product elements from a remote marshalling area to an assembly line work station includes an elevated rail system with a fixed longitudinally extending runway rail and a laterally extending bridge rail which is displaceable along the runway rail. A rail trolley is carried for controlled bi-directional displacement along the bridge rail. A hoisting device is carried by the rail trolley and includes a base member, an object grappler carried with the base member operative to selectively engage, transport and release product elements between the marshaling area and the work station, a linearly expandable structure coupling the rail trolley and the base portion, and a hoist drive operative for raising and lowering the base portion/object grappler. A controller includes assembly line work station operator input control devices located on the object grappler to control all aspects of the operation of the hoist system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Blair C Perkins
  • Patent number: 9688329
    Abstract: An ergonomic seat for a cycle and a manufacturing method of said seat comprise two seating surfaces that are curved upward and forward to allow a user to be supported continuously in the precise anatomical regions situated under each ischium, under the upper dorsal part of the thighs as far as a ventro-lateral part of the thighs in the region of the acetabulums, and passing via each of the creases of the superficial dorso-lateral region of the body which join the thigh to the buttock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Philippe Pasquier
  • Patent number: 9688330
    Abstract: There is provided a bicycle saddle, having two identical portions (30, 31) arranged symmetrically with respect to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle saddle. A channel (15), open from top to bottom, is provided along the longitudinal axis of the bicycle saddle. The front of the saddle is curved downwardly in an aquiline shape. The two identical portions (30, 31) from the rear ends thereof up to extensions (9, 10) that laterally delimit the central channel (15) are provided with substantially flat areas (1, 2) on which the gluteal muscles of the user are intended to be positioned during use of the saddle. The substantially flat areas (1, 2) are substantially parallel to the ground on which the wheels of the bicycle rest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: SELLE SMP S.A.S. di Maurizio Schiavon
    Inventors: Franco Schiavon, Maurizio Schiavon, Francesco Riondato
  • Patent number: 9688331
    Abstract: A bicycle seat post assembly includes first and second tubes, which are telescopically arranged, a fluid chamber, which includes a compressible fluid to generate a force to expand the first and second tubes relative to each other, and a positioning structure. The positioning structure includes a support member on one of the first tube and the second tube, a positioning member that pivots about an axis between a first position and a second position, a control unit, which is connected to the positioning member to move the positioning member between the first position and the second position, and a position maintaining member, which is provided on the other of the first tube and the second tube. The position maintaining member includes an engaging portion that engages with the positioning member to maintain a positional relationship between the first and second tubes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Toyoto Shirai
  • Patent number: 9688332
    Abstract: A headlamp assembly for a saddle-type vehicle includes left and right light-emitting portions arranged on left and right sides, respectively, of a housing. Each of the light-emitting portions includes a light source and a concave reflector, disposed proximate the light source for reflecting light forwardly. Each reflector has an inclined surface configured such that the rear surfaces of the reflectors extend in directions separating from each other as the reflectors extend rearwardly. A driver for driving the light sources of the left and right light-emitting portions is arranged behind and in between the left and right reflectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Hayashi, Nobuyuki Takenaka, Naoki Murasawa
  • Patent number: 9688333
    Abstract: Provided is a multi-functional turn signal lamp for a bicycle that can be used in a state of being fixed or being detachably attached to an end portion of a handle bar of the bicycle, can perform a turn indicator function, a front lighting function or a brake signaling function via LEDs mounted at the end portion of the handle bar and can enable a user to listen to music via a speaker using the power of a battery upon inserting a portable repository. Also, the present invention can enable a turn indicator lamp composed of an LED part (6) to be operated, or a brake lamp function to be performed by selectively pushing each key of a key part (4) and can enable a module (22) to be separated from a grip part (37), and the grip part (37) to be tightly fixed to the handle bar (50).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Sang-lae Lee
  • Patent number: 9688334
    Abstract: The present application describes a chain guard system lock nut comprising an electric motor (7) wherein the sprocket rotates at an angular speed different from the crank speed (2). The present application discloses a bike chain guard system lock nut designed to protect the clothing of the user from fouling or being caught between the chain and the sprocket, thereby avoiding accidents, but also, and by means of the chain guard (4), avoiding the chain from releasing from the sprocket in the bottom bracket (8). This lock nut is assembled together with the sprocket directly on the bottom bracket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: MIRANDA & IRMAO, LDA.
    Inventor: João Filipe Tavares Miranda
  • Patent number: 9688335
    Abstract: A body cover construction for a motorcycle includes a body cover having a front mudguard which covers an outer circumference of a front wheel, a front cover covering a front portion of a vehicle body from a front to sides of a headstock, floorboards extending from a lower rear portion of the front cover to below a seat so that rider's feet rest thereon, and underside covers covering sides of the vehicle body lying below and forwards of the floorboards. When the vehicle body is seen from a side, a lower edge portion of a front side surface of the front cover extends in a longitudinal direction and is at a similar level as a lower edge portion of a mudguard side surface of the mudguard. A front upper end portion of the underside cover extends upwards to a position which is a predetermined distance from the lower edge portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Akiko Ishikawa, Taro Nishimoto, Kazunori Yoshimura, Ayumu Tsuji
  • Patent number: 9688336
    Abstract: A cabin specifically designed for people disabled with different dexterities: The cabin has several universal manufacturing systems comprising a chassis consisting of pipes being covered by a system of individual panels of transparent flexible vinyl, the panels being individually attached around the pipes of the frame with different and distinct fastening systems, and the system has two sliding door panels of transparent flexible vinyl comprising a magnet closure system, two different systems of distinct elements of the scooter having welded perforated adapters on top of their elements fixed to the scooter, two different systems of narrow slats installed on scooter floor, two different systems forming the rear lower part of the scooter, and the system of supported pipes of chassis is fixed to the roof system, the removable panels from the supporter pipes of chassis being system for converting cabin roof to canopy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Louisa Marie Lafleur
  • Patent number: 9688337
    Abstract: A no hands bike chain cleaning tool to clean the chain of a bicycle that is driven through the cleaning tool in response to a rotation of the bicycle pedals. The cleaning tool has a hook projecting from the rear thereof to engage the drop down arm of the rear derailleur of the bicycle and thereby prevent a displacement of the cleaning tool away from the rear derailleur when the pedals are rotated in a first direction. The rear of the cleaning tool has an inwardly extending depression to receive therewithin an edge of the drop down arm and thereby block the cleaning tool from moving into the rear gear wheel when the pedals are rotated in an opposite direction. The cleaning tool has a top cover and a bottom tray that are detachably connected to one another by the actuation of a push-button so as to surround the bicycle chain to be cleaned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Lloyd R Hill
  • Patent number: 9688338
    Abstract: A carbon fiber rim comprises a circular rim and a heat conduction layer. The circular rim comprises carbon fiber composites, and has two opposite side surfaces facing two brake pads and two opposite hooks extending outward radially to hold tires. The heat conduction layer is arranged on the side surface of the circular rim for forming a braking region facing the brake pad. The heat conduction layer comprises a porous or mesh heat conduction material. A bicycle including the aforementioned carbon fiber rim and the manufacturing method of the carbon fiber rim are also disclosed here. The carbon fiber rim can prevent distortion due to frictional heat when braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Awise Fiber Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Philip Chuang
  • Patent number: 9688339
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a restrictor that prevents movement of a brake controlling operation transmission member and is provided at an upper portion of at least one of an upper cross portion, a right side portion, and a left side portion. The brake controlling operation transmission member includes a leaning-associated deforming portion that is located between a brake controller and the restrictor to deform in response to the leaning of a body frame and a wheel-turning-associated deforming portion at least a portion of which is located between the leaning-associated deforming portion and a brake device to deform in response to the turning of a right front wheel and a left front wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yosuke Hirayama
  • Patent number: 9688340
    Abstract: An accessory for a self-balancing board is provided. The self-balancing board comprises a foot-deck having two lateral foot-deck ends. Each lateral foot-deck end is coupled to a motor that drives a wheel in response to an orientation of the lateral foot-deck end relative to a horizontal plane. The accessory includes a chassis, at least one travel surface-contacting element coupled proximal to a first longitudinal end of the chassis to facilitate travel of the chassis over a travel surface, and a seat coupled to the chassis and configured to support a person.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: HOVERPOWERED, LLC
    Inventor: Tyler Kroymann
  • Patent number: 9688341
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a cardboard-based unit, structural elements comprising said unit and land-vehicles comprising said units and structural elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: I.G. CARDBOARD TECHNOLOGIES LTD.
    Inventor: Izhar Gafni
  • Patent number: 9688342
    Abstract: In a mobile vehicle 1 having a vehicle body 2, a front wheel 3f, and a rear wheel 3r, the steering control wheel 3f can be steered by a steering actuator 8 about a steering axis Csf which is tilted backward. The steering actuator 8 is controlled by a control device 15. The height a, from a ground surface 110, of the intersection point Ef of the steering axis Csf of the steering control wheel 3f and a virtual straight line connecting the ground contact point of the steering control wheel 3f and the center of axle of the steering control wheel 3f in a basic posture state of the mobile vehicle 1 is set to satisfy a prescribed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Toru Takenaka, Hiroshi Gomi, Kazushi Akimoto, Hiroyuki Makino, Yoichi Nishimura, Taihei Setoguchi, Naoyuki Saito, Kenji Muto, Keisuke Koitabashi, Shunichi Nakabayashi
  • Patent number: 9688343
    Abstract: A tubular handlebar includes an internal peripheral surface and a stem head with a mounting system for a mobile device. The tubular handlebar includes a open end, a closed end, at least one speaker unit embedded into at least one through hole of the internal peripheral surface, and a bass reflex system to enhance the acoustic characteristics of the sound generated by the at least one speaker unit. The tubular handlebar has a sound box affixed to the internal peripheral surface of the tubular handlebar and housing a rear part of the at least one speaker unit. The bass reflex system includes a bass reflex duct connecting the sound box with the first end. The mounting system further includes a first connector to electrically connect the mobile device to a second connector. The second connector can be detached or reattached to the at least one speaker unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Mobile Communications, Inc.
    Inventors: Shin Takanashi, Yuji Matsumoto, Shimpei Hirano
  • Patent number: 9688344
    Abstract: A linkage front wheel suspension system for two-wheeled vehicles comprising of a control arm hinged with the body of the vehicle, fork member, and steering member. An upper ball joint connects said steering member to the body of the vehicle and a lower ball joint connects the outer end of said control arm with said fork member. Fork member extends upwards and rearwards from said lower ball joint to hinge with said steering member. Steering member extends upwards and forwards from this pivot point to said upper ball joint. A method of steering control connects with said steering member. Means of springing/dampening connects with at least one of the said steering/suspension members. Said suspension system can utilize a lighter design of main frame, provide superior road-holding and can have reduced compression when front wheel braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: FORMCEPT TECHNOLOGIES AND SOLUTIONS PRIVATE LIMITED
    Inventor: Robert Rae
  • Patent number: 9688345
    Abstract: A suspension device includes a main body, and a stroke locking mechanism that locks expansion/contraction of the main body. The stroke locking mechanism includes: a tube member coupled to one of a vehicle body and a vehicle wheel; a partition wall body fixed inside the tube member so as to divide an interior of the tube member into a first chamber and a second chamber; a flow passage that connects the first chamber to the second chamber; a valve that cuts off the flow passage during stroke locking; and a shaft member coupled to the other of the vehicle body and the vehicle wheel and inserted into the first chamber to be capable of advancing and retreating. The first chamber is filled with a working fluid, and the working fluid is stored in the second chamber so as to form a reservoir portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: KYB Corporation
    Inventors: Tsutomu Yoshimoto, Yu Shibuya
  • Patent number: 9688346
    Abstract: A variable height, infinitely adjustable front fork system that can adapt to various wheel sizes. On traditional front bicycle fork system, to change the tire size require a change in the fork, and to change the height of the fork relative to the frame that hold the front fork would require again a change to the fork. This new fork system addresses these two concerns. With a push of a button, or simple manipulation of a handle, the height of the fork relative to the frame can be made via a telescopic fork blade design. To accommodate different tire sizes, a user simply re-positions a pair of clamp-on wheel dropouts along a lower half of the telescopic blades.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: FREEDOM CONCEPTS INC.
    Inventors: Colin Bock, Duy Tran
  • Patent number: 9688347
    Abstract: A vehicle suspension damper for providing a variable damping rate. The vehicle suspension damper comprises a first damping mechanism having a variable first threshold pressure, a second damping mechanism having a second threshold pressure, and a compressible chamber in communication with a damping fluid chamber, wherein the second damping mechanism is responsive to a compression of said compressible chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Fox Factory, Inc.
    Inventors: Joshua Benjamin Yablon, Dennis K. Wootten, Robert C. Fox, David M. Haugen, Sante Pelot
  • Patent number: 9688348
    Abstract: A hydraulic hose fitting is basically provided with a first connection portion and a second connection portion. The first connection portion is configured to be attached a hydraulic device. The first connection portion has a first fluid passageway with a first center longitudinal axis and a fastener structure including one of a fastener receiving hole and an attachment stud that has a second center longitudinal axis that is non-perpendicular and non-coaxial with the first center longitudinal axis. The second connection portion is configured to be attached to a hydraulic hose. The second connection portion has a second fluid passageway fluidly communicating with the first fluid passageway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Masahiro Nakakura
  • Patent number: 9688349
    Abstract: A chainless drive mechanism for a bicycle using pedal arms, one on each side of the bicycle, each pedal arm carrying a pedal engageable with a rider's foot. Each pedal arm is mounted to a crank by a rotating joint and connected to the frame of the bicycle by a link, each link having rotating joints at each end. The cranks are connected by a shaft passing through the hub of to the driven wheel of the bicycle. The cranks may be connected to the driven wheel by a multi ratio free wheeling gear mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Robert William Thompson
  • Patent number: 9688351
    Abstract: A torque sensor for electrically assisting a vehicle with pedals includes a housing, a first gear, an actuator, and a control circuit. The housing defines a receiving chamber and is configured to be coupled to a drive member. The first gear is rotatably mounted in the receiving chamber. The actuator is received in the receiving chamber and is driven by the first gear. The control circuit including a resistor is received in the receiving chamber and the actuator slides along the resistor as a rider applies force to the pedals, thus for adjusting a resistance value of the control circuit, to allow the control circuit to output a signal which governs the assisting power. The disclosure also includes an electric bicycle using the torque sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: ScienBiziP Consulting(Shenzhen)Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yen-Chi Chen, Chang-Yuan Shih, Shih-Hsin Hsu
  • Patent number: 9688352
    Abstract: A hub comprises a cylindrical, hollow hub member which is mounted to rotate about its axis and accommodated in whose interior is a continuously variable ratio transmission system having an input, which is mounted to rotate about the axis, and an output mounted to rotate with the hub member. The transmission system comprises a single epicyclic gearset including a sun gear in mesh with a plurality of planet gears mounted to rotate about respective planet shafts carried by a common carrier, which is mounted to rotate with the input about the axis. The planet gears are in mesh with an annulus gear, which is connected to rotate with the rotors of first and second electric motor/generators, respectively. The electrical connections of the stators of the two motor/generators are connected by a controller arranged to control the transmission of power from one motor/generator to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Nexxtdrive Limited
    Inventors: David Taitt, Linan Gong
  • Patent number: 9688353
    Abstract: A snowmobile includes a transmission unit that transmits a driving force generated by an engine to the ground surface, in which ground touching portions of the transmission unit that are spaced apart from each other in the vehicle width direction receive reaction forces mutually different in magnitude from the ground surface; a suspension that supports the transmission unit so as to swing in the up-down direction; and a vehicle body vibration control damper extending between a first portion and a second portion that are spaced apart from each other of the vehicle body frame and a member fixed to the vehicle body frame, the vehicle body vibration control damper generating a damping force against variations that change the distance between the first portion and the second portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Seiji Sawai
  • Patent number: 9688354
    Abstract: A snowmobile has a structure that reduces and minimizes adverse affects of snow on a throttle motor. The snowmobile includes a snowmobile body including an engine room therein, an engine which is disposed inside the engine room, a throttle valve arranged to adjust intake air supplied to the engine, a throttle motor arranged to drive the throttle valve and disposed ahead of the engine, and an air box arranged to pass the intake air through toward the engine, disposed ahead of the engine and including a portion located ahead of the throttle motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Tokinari Nagao, Atsushi Sawabuchi, Takashi Ashida, Manabu Kai
  • Patent number: 9688355
    Abstract: The present invention provides a retractable wheel system for snowmobile skis. The retractable wheel system of the present invention may be installed on a snowmobile ski without affecting its structural integrity by installing the system on the reinforced portion of the snowmobile ski. When a user circulates in a path with little or no snow, the retractable wheel system is positioned in the extended configuration by the user and the system will automatically return to the retracted configuration when the user returns in a snowy zone. This is realized by using a pre-tensioned spring that will reposition the wheel in the retracted configuration. The spring transmits a rotational movement to the member on which the wheel is fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: INVESTISSEMENTS D. BEAUDOIN INC.
    Inventor: Denis Beaudoin
  • Patent number: 9688356
    Abstract: A three stage watercraft for operation in the water as a traditional boat at low speeds in stage one, for operation on the water's surface at mid-range speeds at stage two, and for traveling in ground effect at higher range speeds is disclosed. The three stage craft includes a hydro-wing 12, either at least a single hydrofoil 13 or gyration rotor 14 to aid with lift from stage one to stage two, and a pair of outboard floats or hydro-floats 16a, 16b supported by the hydro-wing 12, which are also designed to aid with lift from stage one to stage two.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Walter Schulz
  • Patent number: 9688357
    Abstract: A foldable boat includes a boat hull, left and right wing members, two forward buoyant bodies, and two rearward buoyant bodies. When the foldable boat is in a folded position, flat bodies of the left and right wing members are substantially perpendicular to a bottom wall of the boat hull, and the forward and rearward buoyant bodies can be packed in an accommodation space of the boat hull. When the foldable boat is in an unfolded position, the flat bodies are substantially parallel to the bottom wall, and each of the forward buoyant bodies and a corresponding one the rearward buoyant bodies are fastened to a corresponding one of the left and right wing members so as to provide a buoyant force to the boat hull.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Chih-Yung Chen
  • Patent number: 9688358
    Abstract: A sliding hatch for a boat including a vertical bulkhead and deck having an opening with vertical and horizontal sections defining a companionway for access to areas below the deck. A door is pivotally mounted to a bulkhead adjacent the vertical opening and movable for access to the vertical section of the companionway. A hatch is slideably mounted to the deck for selectively enclosing the horizontal section of the opening. Pivoted links couple the door to the hatch, such that, as the door is opened and closed, the hatch is moved between open and closed positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: S2 Yachts, Inc.
    Inventors: Linwood Addison Fuller, IV, Dwayne Back
  • Patent number: 9688359
    Abstract: A vessel (1) includes a spud (10), a spud lifting device (20) and a plurality of spud guiders (30). The spud guiders (30) are arranged to hold the spud (10) in a substantial vertical orientation and guide the spud (10) when moving in a substantial vertical direction between a lower position in which it can engage with a water bottom and an upper position. The spud lifting device (20) is arranged to lift the spud (10) from the lower position to the upper position. The vessel (1) further includes a spud position detector (40) to detect passage of the lower end (11) of the spud (10) along one or more spud detection points at predetermined heights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: IHC Holland IE B.V.
    Inventors: Marinus Johannes Cornelis de Poorter, Dingeman Van Woerden
  • Patent number: 9688360
    Abstract: A floating petroleum production support having a turret passing a plurality of flexible first pipes connected to a top platform. The turret includes at least one guide and offset pipe for containing and guiding a flexible first pipe and passing inside the cylindrical internal structure of the turret non-vertically between: a) a bottom wall at a first location (C1) of the bottom wall where the guide pipe is fastened; and b) an internal platform above the bottom wall, the top end of the guide pipe being fastened to the internal platform at a second location (C2) where the top end of the flexible pipe contained in the guide pipe is fastened or is suitable for being fastened, the second location not being in vertical alignment with the first location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Saipem S.A.
    Inventor: Yann Hajeri
  • Patent number: 9688362
    Abstract: A system and method are for transferring fluid cargo between a cargo vessel and a cargo connection point at open sea where the cargo vessel is required to keep an end portion of the cargo vessel up towards the resultant element force direction, wherein at least one self-propelled buoy, that is designed to be in fluid connection with the cargo connection point, is connectable to a side portion of the cargo vessel, there being a cargo line that is connectable between the self-propelled buoy and the cargo vessel, and where the self-propelled buoy is designed to keep the self-propelled buoy within predetermined radial distance boundaries from the cargo connection point also when it is attached to the cargo vessel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: HiLoad LNG AS
    Inventor: Svein Borge Hellesmark
  • Patent number: 9688363
    Abstract: An improved walkthrough door is disclosed for a marine vessel comprising a curved roof with a windshield disposed in the curved roof proximate a foredeck of the marine vessel. A transparent walkthrough door is slidably mounted in the curved roof and moveable between a closed position, whereat the walkthrough door seals with the foredeck and an open position permitting access to the foredeck. Preferably, the walkthrough door is electrically operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Seabring Marine Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffery Todd Marshall, John Mark Owens
  • Patent number: 9688364
    Abstract: A modular floatable dock section comprises a fluid bladder having substantially flat top and bottom surfaces, and a perimeter around the top and bottom surfaces. The fluid bladder is designed for being selectively inflated in a deployed condition and deflated (collapsed) for transport and storage. A generally rigid continuous-surface deck is mounted adjacent the top surface of the fluid bladder, and defines a deck perimeter substantially coincident with the perimeter of the fluid bladder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Patriot3, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Louis Fuqua, Steven Scott Kahre
  • Patent number: 9688365
    Abstract: A fin plug (10) for installation in a water craft, said fin plug (10) including: a first open cavity (20) adapted to receive a base portion (15) of a water craft fin (50); and, a resilient biasing rod (30) and a protruding member (35) cooperating with the biasing rod, said protruding member being adapted to abut the base portion (15) of said fin (50) when received in said first open cavity (20); wherein said biasing rod and protruding member are adapted to apply a force to the base portion of said fin to inhibit removal of said fin from said first open cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: FIN CONTROL SYSTEMS PTY LIMITED
    Inventors: Scott Norrie, Michael Durante, Gregory Scott, Linden Evans
  • Patent number: 9688366
    Abstract: Clean energy powered surfboard having various advantages that make for easy to learn, easy to use, safe, exciting, high performance, environmentally friendly surfing on any ocean wave in the world. The various embodiments include novel motor, turbine, or electric motor generator surfboards comprising hydrogen or electric-powered motors, which can be switch-activated and which drives jet pumps. Energy can be stored as compressed gas, including air and hydrogen. Energy can be stored in novel capacitors that are incorporated in the body of the surfboard. Energy can be generated by solar or water power while surfing or by passing waves, for example, while waiting for a big wave. An output jet provides thrust to catch a wave, to return to the wave breaks, or to avoid a hazard. A novel fin output jet increase stability and maximizes thrust. Self-contained, self-recharging embodiments are low cost, lightweight, safe, and good for the environment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Kendyl A. Roman
  • Patent number: 9688367
    Abstract: A tow rope engagement system for a water ski or wakeboard or configured to communicate a majority of the force from the boat engaged to the tow rope, directly to the water ski or wakeboard during deep water starts by a rider. The lesser force required to ride is transferred to a handle held by the skiers hands once the skier has reached a substantially standing position and is on top of the water. A quick release is provided which will disconnect the tow rope should the rider activate it manually or by falling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Jared Strong
  • Patent number: 9688368
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to pontoon shields. The pontoon shields disclosed herein may, for example, protect pontoons from damage and/or enhance the aesthetic appearance of pontoons. The shields may be fashioned from one or more segments of resilient material configured to attach along a longitudinal aspect of a pontoon. The shields may be fashioned from a single segment, or from one or more segments configured to mate with one another. The shields may be attached to a pontoon, for example, via an adhesive, weld, and/or one or more brackets, or other mechanical means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: David Schaefer
  • Patent number: 9688369
    Abstract: An inflatable life raft assembly is disclosed, including a deployable and inflatable life raft that a user can voluntarily and repeatedly deploy from a storage carrier, inflate for use, and fold back into the container after use. The carrier is integrally formed with or permanently attached to the inflatable life raft. A compressed gas cylinder can assist the user in inflating the life raft. The storage carrier can automatically open when the life raft inflates, by pressure exerted from within the carrier by the expanding life raft. The inflatable life raft includes weight inserts to render the life raft assembly throwable, both when the life raft is folded and stored in the carrier, and when the life raft is deployed and inflated, greatly assisting a user in tossing or throwing the life raft to a person in need of a floating aid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: QUICK RAFT, LLC
    Inventor: Troy Faletra
  • Patent number: 9688370
    Abstract: An inflator includes a cover hingedly formed on an inflatable clothing, an air-port seat formed under the cover having an air port formed through the air-port seat, and a self-restoring check valve hingedly formed under the air-port seat for normally elastically closing the air port as subjected to air pressure in the inflatable clothing, whereby upon opening of the cover, air can be blown into the inflatable clothing through the air port and to open the check valve to inflate the clothing for keeping warm or buoyant for the clothing wearer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: SHEI CHUNG HSIN IND. CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Jeff Heng-Wen Shiue
  • Patent number: 9688371
    Abstract: A neutrally buoyant underwater vehicle is provided in which a length of the vehicle is up to one tenth the length of a predetermined acoustic wavelength. The vehicle includes an inertial navigation system with an accelerometer capable of measuring velocity in a multi-axis direction. The navigation system is operationally connected to a hydrophone which measures acoustic energy of the wavelength arriving at the underwater vehicle. A processor gathers the data from the accelerometer and the hydrophone to convert the data into usable units. The operation of the vehicle-based components is similar to a vector sensor for frequencies of 250 Hz or lower.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Anthony A Ruffa
  • Patent number: 9688372
    Abstract: A propulsion sail having an aircraft wing profile, comprises a traditional flexible sail and at least one detachable thickness module capable of being assembled in a detachable manner on a face of the flexible sail, wherein each module comprises at least one flexible plate, comprising a leading edge and a leech edge, the plate being assembled by its leading edge along the luff of the flexible sail via first assembly means and being assembled by its leech edge via second assembly means, the propulsion sail comprising at least one pair of modules, the two modules of the pair being disposed substantially symmetrically on either side of the flexible sail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Antoine Debled
  • Patent number: 9688373
    Abstract: This disclosure provides improved nautical craft that can travel and navigate on their own. A hybrid vessel is described that converts wave motion to locomotive thrust by mechanical means, and also converts wave motion to electrical power for storage in a battery. The electrical power can then be tapped to provide locomotive power during periods where wave motion is inadequate and during deployment. The electrical power can also be tapped to even out the undulating thrust that is created when locomotion of the vessel is powered by wave motion alone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: Liquid Robotics, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger G. Hine, Derek L. Hine
  • Patent number: 9688374
    Abstract: A boat maneuvering system includes a power source, a first operating device configured to operate the power source, a first controller configured to control the power source, a second controller configured to accept an operation instruction input from the first operating device and to output a control signal to the first controller, a first electric power line that connects the power source to a battery to convey electric power therebetween, a second electric power line that connects the second controller to the battery to convey electric power therebetween, a communication path that connects the first controller and the second controller to convey a signal therebetween, and a signal conversion portion provided on the communication path to electrically separate the first and second controllers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Takayoshi Suzuki, Noriyoshi Hiraoka, Akihiro Onoue, Atsushi Kumita, Yoshiaki Tasaka
  • Patent number: 9688375
    Abstract: A fuel supply device includes a fuel tank, a fuel path, and a fuel pump. The fuel tank includes a fuel storage region including a sealed region configured to store a fuel. The fuel path is connected to an engine and the fuel tank. The fuel path includes a vaporized-liquid fuel mixture suction portion to suck a vaporized-liquid fuel mixture. The vaporized-liquid fuel mixture is produced by mixing the vaporized fuel into the liquid fuel. The vaporized fuel is produced from the liquid fuel stored in the fuel storage region. The fuel pump is disposed in the fuel path. The fuel pump is configured to produce a negative pressure in a pump suction port connected to the vaporized-liquid fuel mixture suction portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yoshiyuki Kadobayashi
  • Patent number: 9688376
    Abstract: Provided are a system and a method for treating ballast water for a ship, the system including a rotary filtration apparatus including a filter that is cylindrically formed so as to surround an axis, that is rotatable around the axis, and that has a pleated shape that is folded in a cylinder radial direction; and an electric motor for rotating the filter. A distance between the cleaning nozzle and a recess of the filter is 120 mm or less. The system and the method are configured to perform a steady-state operation that satisfies the following conditions a to d: a) a rotation speed of the filter during a filtering operation is in the range of 20 to 100 rpm, b) a flow speed of cleaning water ejected from the cleaning nozzle is 250 m/min or more, c) a flow rate of filtered water per unit area of the filter is 5.1 m/h or less, and d) a flow rate of discharged water discharged from the discharge channel is 5% of the flow rate of filtered water or more.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: SUMITOMO ELECTRIC INDUSTRIES, LTD.
    Inventors: Munetsugu Ueyama, Isao Ozawa, Kenichiro Miyatake, Ryusuke Nakai
  • Patent number: 9688377
    Abstract: The subject matter disclosed herein relates to a part of a fuselage of an aircraft having a longitudinal axis, the part including a keel beam and a lower rear shell, each being made from composite materials of the type comprising fibers and of which a part of the fibers extends continuously between the keel beam and the lower rear shell.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS (S.A.S.)
    Inventors: Rémi Lansiaux, Francesco Fiore
  • Patent number: 9688378
    Abstract: A drain mast or discharging fluids from an aircraft and associated method are provided. This drain mast includes a fairing including a base including an upstream section intended to be attached on an outer surface of the aircraft and a downstream section. The drain mast also includes a discharge nozzle including a discharge end opening onto the outside of the fairing, the discharge nozzle protruding from the downstream section in a first direction with respect to the base, the base and the discharge nozzle defining a tubular through-cavity, extending from the upstream section as far as the discharge end. The fairing also includes a profiled section for guiding air, protruding from the downstream section, in a direction opposite to the first direction, and configured for orienting an incident mass of air on the profiled section towards the discharge end.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: DASSAULT AVIATION
    Inventor: Eugène Wielgosz
  • Patent number: 9688379
    Abstract: An actuation device for opening an emergency exit flap of a cockpit door is provided. The actuation device comprises a support structure, at least two securing elements, an actuation element and a deflection mechanism. The support structure is configured so as to be fastened to the emergency exit flap. The securing elements are integrated into the support structure and are configured so as to fasten the actuation device, and thus the emergency exit flap, to the cockpit door. The actuation element is connected to the support structure. Therein, the deflection mechanism connects the securing elements to the actuation element in such a way that a force which is exerted on the actuation element is diverted in such a way that the securing elements are released from the cockpit door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBH
    Inventors: Maik Koch, Matthias Breuer