Patents Issued in July 13, 2017
  • Publication number: 20170197709
    Abstract: A compound rotorcraft with a fuselage and at least one main rotor, the fuselage comprising a lower side and an upper side that is opposed to the lower side, the at least one main rotor being arranged at the upper side, wherein at least one propeller is provided and mounted to a fixed wing arrangement that is laterally attached to the fuselage, the fixed wing arrangement comprising at least one upper wing that is arranged at an upper wing root joint area provided at the upper side of the fuselage and at least one lower wing that is arranged at a lower wing root joint area provided at the lower side of the fuselage, the upper and lower wings being at least interconnected at an associated interconnection region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Applicant: AIRBUS HELICOPTERS DEUTSCHLAND GMBH
    Inventors: Axel FINK, Martin BLACHA
  • Publication number: 20170197710
    Abstract: Techniques, systems, and devices are disclosed for safely transporting passengers from pickup locations to destination locations on-demand using automated/pilotless vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft. In one implementation, an on-demand passenger transport system includes one or more VTOL aircraft which operate without human pilots, and each of the VTOL aircraft operates under the control of an associated onboard computer. The disclosed system further includes a ground control system which is configured to: receive a service request from a passenger for a transport service of the VTOL aircraft; assign one of the VTOL aircraft to the requesting passenger; process the service request to generate a flight task; transmit the flight task to the assigned VTOL aircraft. The onboard computer of the VTOL aircraft is configured to control a flight of the VTOL aircraft to transport the passenger from a pickup location to a destination location by air based on the flight task.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Tao Ma
  • Publication number: 20170197711
    Abstract: Example doors for ducted fan inlet openings are disclosed herein. An example apparatus disclosed herein includes a door and a duct of a ducted fan unit extending through a body of an aircraft. The duct of the example apparatus defines a passageway between a first opening in a first side of the body and a second opening in a second side of the body opposite the first side. The example apparatus also includes an actuation system to move the door between a first position in which the door is disposed over the first opening and a second position in which the door is disposed over the first side of the body and outside of a diameter of the first opening. In the example apparatus, the door is orientated generally parallel to the first side of the body throughout movement of the door between the first position and the second position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Carl King, Glenn Thomas Pyle
  • Publication number: 20170197712
    Abstract: An aircraft includes a fuselage and a wing extending from each lateral side of the fuselage. A nacelle is pivotably se cured to each wing. The nacelle has a rotor located thereat, with the rotor having a rotor tip path plane defined by rotation of the rotor about a rotor axis of rotation. When the rotor tip path plane is changed relative to the wing, the nacelle pivots relative to the wing about a nacelle hinge axis to reduce flapping required by the rotor. A method of operating an aircraft includes changing a rotor tip path plane orientation relative to a wing of the aircraft. The rotor disposed at a nacelle, with the nacelle pivotably secured to the wing. The nacelle is pivoted relative to the wing to reduce an overall tip path plane change requirement of the rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Mark R. Alber
  • Publication number: 20170197713
    Abstract: A drone which can be piloted by a user. The drone has at least one or both of a depending head and an outwardly extending elongate handle. A cleaning sheet may be removably disposed on the head, to clean a target surface, such as a floor or countertop. A duster may be removably disposed on the handle, to clean a target surface, such as an elevated surface or clean personal items.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Michelle Lynn BORMAN, Glenn Allen BRADBURY, Su Yon CHANG, Larry L. Huston
  • Publication number: 20170197714
    Abstract: Disclosed is a drone capable of operating in an aqueous environment. The drone may include a buoyant structure configured to provide buoyancy. Further, the drone may include one or more propulsion units configured to propel the drone. Furthermore, the drone may include an upper camera disposed on an upper side of the drone. Additionally, the drone may include a lower camera disposed on a lower side of the drone. Further, each of the upper camera and the lower camera may be configured to capture images. Furthermore, one or more legs configured to enable the drone to stand on a solid surface. Additionally, the drone may include one or more leg-actuators coupled to the one or more legs. Further, the one or more leg-actuators may be configured to change a state of the one or more legs to one of an extended state and a retracted state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: John Michael Golden
  • Publication number: 20170197715
    Abstract: A flying drone, which includes a fuselage; a propulsion powered at least by electrical accumulators and/or photovoltaic cells; and first and second wings. The first wing is defined by a wingspan and by an upper surface area, where the upper face of the first wing is essentially covered by photovoltaic cells. The second wing has practically the same wingspan and upper surface area as the first wing. The second wing is offset along the fuselage and in height relative to the first wing. The upper face of the second wing is essentially covered with photovoltaic cells.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Benjamin David
  • Publication number: 20170197716
    Abstract: A fastening system with a rotatable fastener that may secure an aircraft store to an aircraft and may rotate to reduce a drag coefficient of the aircraft store. Reducing the drag coefficient of the aircraft store may increase fuel efficiency of the aircraft store by requiring less energy to propel the aircraft store at a given speed or acceleration. The rotatable fastener allows the aircraft store to attach to the aircraft and to possess a low drag coefficient once the aircraft store is deployed. The rotatable fastener member may be configured to conform to attachment interface standards, such as Standardization Agreement (“STANAG”) 3842 or any other suitable aircraft store attachment interface standard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Bill K. Taylor, Keith A. Kerns, Michael S. Grygla
  • Publication number: 20170197717
    Abstract: There is described a longitudinal lock device for cargo in aircraft endowed with a locking box which is fastened beneath the floor of an aircraft, the longitudinal lock device for cargo in aircraft comprising a locking latch associated to the cargo and coupled to a bar mechanism disposed inside the locking box, the locking latch being moved towards the extraction of the cargo in flight; the bar mechanism being formed by the locking box acting as a fixed bar, a puppet arm articulated on a second pivot and a puppet follower articulated on a first pivot, both pivots fastened to the locking box said articulations moving the bar mechanism determining locked, armed and released positions for the device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Saint Clair TRISOTTO, João Carlos LIVORATTI, Douglas de Moura GERMANO, Mário Sérgio Candelária Bernardes BATISTA, Emanuel das Neves ROSA, Fábio Henrique Massuia DOS SANTOS, Reinaldo Sawaguchi KOLOSOSKI
  • Publication number: 20170197718
    Abstract: A tether compensated unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is described. In one embodiment, the UAV includes a winch with a tether to lower an item from the UAV for delivery, a tether compensation mechanism configured to contact the tether as it extends from the winch, and a flight controller to control a flight path of the UAV. The flight controller is also configured to direct the tether compensation mechanism to clamp the tether based on the flight path of the UAV. Further, based on movement identified in the tether using a sensor, a tether response controller can determine a complementary response and direct the tether compensation mechanism to brace the tether against the movement. Thus, the tether compensation mechanism can help stabilize sway or movement in the tether, which can help prevent the tether from undesirable swinging.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel Buchmueller
  • Publication number: 20170197719
    Abstract: Provided is an unmanned aerial vehicle for evacuating people from a skyscraper, including: an aerial body unit including an evacuating cage in which a boarding space for evacuating people is formed; a main thrust unit having a form in which a propeller is coupled in a cylindrical structure and installed on both sides of the aerial body unit to take off and raise the aerial body unit by main thrust generated by the propeller; an auxiliary thrust unit having the form in which the propeller is coupled in the cylindrical structure and installed on a rear surface of the aerial body unit and horizontally moving the aerial body unit by auxiliary thrust generated in a vertical direction to an outer wall of the building by the propeller to approach the aerial body unit to the outer wall of the building; and a vacuum adsorption unit installed on a front surface of the aerial body unit and detachably fixed to the outer wall of the building through vacuum adsorption.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Applicant: AJOU UNIVERSITY INDUSTRY-ACADEMIC COOPERATION FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Yong Jin KWON, Eung Hyun LEE
  • Publication number: 20170197720
    Abstract: An inflatable aircraft mattress comprising an inflatable mattress section having a first chamber, the mattress section capable of being longitudinally aligned on an aircraft seat, the mattress section having a top sleeping surface; an inflatable base section having a second chamber, the base section vertically aligned on a front portion of the aircraft seat, the base section including two opposite non-inflatable wall sections; an inflatable height adjustment section having a third chamber, the height adjustment section is attached to the base section; a plurality of inflation valves positioned on the inflatable aircraft mattress enabling air to enter the first, second, and third chamber; a plurality of deflation valves positioned on the inflatable aircraft mattress enabling air to exit the first, second, and third chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Berge Raymond Kiraz
  • Publication number: 20170197721
    Abstract: A beverage holder device including an expandable pouch, and at least one attachment device. The expandable pouch including an opening facing upwards, and configured to circumscribe and support a beverage container in an upright position. The at least one attachment device affixed to the expandable pouch at the opening of the expandable pouch, with the at least one attachment device configured to removably couple the expandable pouch to an object.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Ingrid Ellis, Noah Ellis
  • Publication number: 20170197722
    Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention provide systems and methods for installing seats in a passenger vehicle using seat tracks and seat fittings. The seat track fittings may include a sleeve (22) with a cylindrical threaded opening (24), a double effect post (26) with an external lower thread (28) and an internal threaded portion (36). The external lower thread is configured to cooperate with the cylindrical threaded opening of the sleeve. The seat track fitting also has a track stud (38) with a lower flange (46) that is configured to cooperate with a seat track (10) and an upper external thread (42) configured to cooperate with the internal threaded portion of the double effect post. The double effect post external lower thread and the track stud external thread have inverse hands, such that rotation of the double effect post tightens the post and the track stud simultaneously.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Jean-Charles Marais
  • Publication number: 20170197723
    Abstract: In one example embodiment, a strut for mounting a jet engine to a wing of an aircraft includes a plurality of engine mounts and a space frame truss supported from the wing and comprising front and aft portions, the front portion being coupled to and supporting the engine mounts, the aft portion extending upwardly and rearwardly from an aft end of the front portion. By removing the aft end of the strut from the core exhaust zone of the engine, substantial reductions in the weight and drag of the strut, and a corresponding increase in the specific fuel consumption of the associated aircraft may be achieved.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Omid B. Nakhjavani, Robert H. Willie, Paul S. Park, Mohammad Ali Heidari, Leonard J. Hebert, Milan Stefanovic, Parminder Singh, Naimishkumar B. Harpal, Andrew Y. Na
  • Publication number: 20170197724
    Abstract: In order to reduce congestion of attachments between an aircraft engine and its attachments, an engine assembly is provided, the primary structure of the device of which includes a structural cover surrounding the engine and connected on a central box, the cover including an outer skin interiorly delimiting a secondary vein. A group of main mounts is provided as a group of secondary mounts laid out at the rear of the group of main mounts, the group of main mounts comprising a plurality of bolts distributed around the longitudinal axis of the engine and ensuring the attachment of a front end of the cover to the hub of the intermediate case, and a group of secondary mounts comprising a plurality of secondary mounts distributed around the axis and ensuring attachment of a rear portion of the engine to a rear end of the cover.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Olivier PAUTIS, Jean-Michel ROGERO
  • Publication number: 20170197725
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for aerial recovery of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) are provided. The apparatus includes a rigid base having a first section and a second section, wherein the first section is securely mounted to a floor of an aircraft. The apparatus further includes a servicing platform moveably mounted to the base and configured to move along a direction parallel to a longitudinal axis of the aircraft such that in an extended position, the servicing platform at least partially protrudes from a rear cargo door of the aircraft, wherein the servicing platform comprises a capturing mechanism configured to capture the UAV in the extended position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 6, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Chi Hui Frederic FOO, Han Lin HSI
  • Publication number: 20170197726
    Abstract: Aircraft instrumentation systems and controllers are provided. An aircraft instrumentation system includes a display and a controller. The controller is configured to monitor an electronic circuit breaker (ECB) status of each of a plurality of aircraft systems. The controller is further configured to generate, for each of the plurality of aircraft systems, a visual indicator that indicates the ECB status. The controller is yet further configured to generate an image arrangement that includes the visual indicator for each of the plurality of aircraft systems and to generate a signal that causes a display to present the image arrangement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 27, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Applicant: Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
    Inventors: Carl Edward Wischmeyer, Frank Manochio
  • Publication number: 20170197727
    Abstract: A flight management system which is capable of monitoring changes in airplane characteristics such as fuel flow and drag. When a predetermined event is triggered, the flight management system (FMS) creates or updates a set of “dynamic” tables in a database which enable FMS performance algorithms to utilize the latest fuel flow and drag data. Using the updated aerodynamic and propulsion performance data in the dynamic tables, the flight management system is able to compute more accurate flight profile and trip prediction parameters such as estimated time of arrival and predicted fuel consumption quantity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Geun II Kim, Roy S. Alcantara, Christie M. Maldonado, Steven J. Moskalik
  • Publication number: 20170197728
    Abstract: Methods and systems for detecting ice crystals and volcanic ash in concentrations capable of causing power loss in aircraft jet engines. These hazard conditions are inferred from the detection of ice crystals or ash in air recently lifted from the lower atmosphere by convective updrafts. The detection systems can comprise subsystems for detecting air recently lifted from the lower troposphere by measuring radon activity along the aircrafts' flight track, as well as subsystems for detecting ice crystals or volcanic ash around the aircraft via multispectral measurements. The detection of ice crystals in air recently lifted from the lower troposphere indicates that the ice crystals are likely present in large concentration. The detection of volcanic ash in air recently lifted from lower atmosphere also indicates that volcanic ash is likely present in high concentration. These are hazards conditions that could cause power loss, jet engine flameout, and even damage jet engines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Nilton O. RENNÓ
  • Publication number: 20170197729
    Abstract: A method of performing a cooperative safe landing area determination includes receiving perception sensor data indicative of conditions at a plurality of potential landing areas. A processing subsystem of a vehicle updates a local safe landing area map based on the perception sensor data. The local safe landing area map defines safe landing area classifications and classification confidences associated with the potential landing areas. One or more remotely-generated safe landing area maps are received from one or more remote data sources. The one or more remotely-generated safe landing area maps correspond to one or more additional potential landing areas and non-landing areas. The local safe landing area map and the remotely-generated safe landing area maps are aggregated to form a fused safe landing area map. The fused safe landing area map is used to make a final safe landing area determination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 18, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Jason C. Derenick, Xuchu Ding, Igor Cherepinsky, Harshad S. Sane, Christopher Stathis
  • Publication number: 20170197730
    Abstract: A converter for an aircraft includes an intermediate circuit for providing a DC voltage between a positive line and a negative line, at least two rectifiers connected to the intermediate circuit to produce the DC voltage from input AC voltages and at least two inverters connected to the intermediate circuit to produce AC output voltages from the DC voltage. The DC voltage terminals of the rectifiers are connected to a first series circuit and the DC voltage terminals of the inverters are connected to a second series circuit. The positive line and the negative line of the intermediate circuit are connected on an input side via the first series circuit and on the output side via the second series circuit. At least one of the DC voltage terminals includes a short circuit for short-circuiting terminal contacts by which the DC voltage terminal is connected to the respective series circuit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 29, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Applicant: SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: MARCEL LUTZE, MARKUS PFEIFER
  • Publication number: 20170197731
    Abstract: A method for hand launching an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) includes detecting a first motion state of the UAV via a sensor, and controlling the UAV to enter into a launch mode according to the detected first motion state; and detecting a second motion state of the UAV via the sensor after the UAV enters into the launch mode, and controlling whether or not to activate a flight system of the UAV according to the detected second motion state.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Jianjun Yang, Hongtao Sun
  • Publication number: 20170197732
    Abstract: A method for lifting a wing of an aircraft. A plurality of lifting assemblies is attached to a mounting ring supporting the wing. A first plurality of base assemblies is attached to a plurality of fittings connected to the fuselage of the aircraft. The plurality of lifting assemblies is moved away from the first plurality of base assemblies using a plurality of biasing systems correspondingly attached to the plurality of lifting assemblies, the moving causing the mounting ring to move away from the fuselage. The first plurality of base assemblies is removed. A second plurality of base assemblies is attached to the plurality of fittings. Thereafter, moving the plurality of lifting assemblies away from the second plurality of base assemblies using the plurality of biasing systems is repeated, the repeating moving causing the mounting ring to move away from the fuselage to the first height.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 7, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: David E. Scheerer, Patrick F. Joyce
  • Publication number: 20170197733
    Abstract: Apparatus (88) for mounting a nut plate (4) on an aircraft part and then masking the nut plate during painting of the aircraft part (6) containing the nut plate (4), which apparatus (88) comprises: (i) the nut plate (4); (ii) a first bore (10) which extends through the nut plate (4); (iii) a masking formation (8) which is made of a rigid plastics material; (iv) a second bore (52) which extends through the masking formation (8); and (v) a mandrel (68) which is made of a flexible material and which extends through the first and second bores (10, 52), and the apparatus (88) being such that: (vi) the masking formation (8) comprises a body portion (14), a masking portion (16) which is positioned at one end of the body portion (14) and which extends radially outwardly beyond the body portion (14), and a skirt portion (20) which is positioned at a periphery (22) of the masking portion (16) and which extends from a first face (24) of the masking portion (16) and away from the body portion (14); (vii) the body po
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 4, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Dennis Dean Stinson
  • Publication number: 20170197734
    Abstract: A habitation module with a gravity chamber that rotates to provide an artificial gravity environment. In one embodiment, a portal chamber is installed adjacent to the gravity chamber and configured to rotate about the same axis. The portal chamber includes a brake mechanism to stop the rotation of the portal chamber, a first access opening for a crew member to pass between an interior of the habitation module and the portal chamber while rotation of the portal chamber is stopped, an engagement mechanism that engages the gravity chamber to rotate the portal chamber about the axis at a speed of the gravity chamber, and a second access opening for the crew member to pass between the portal chamber and the gravity chamber while the portal chamber rotates at the speed of the gravity chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Raju Dharmaraj, James Michael Engle
  • Publication number: 20170197735
    Abstract: A habitation module with a gravity chamber that provides an artificial gravity environment. In one embodiment, the gravity chamber includes an inner cylindrical structure, outer wall segments that are attachable to one another to form an outer cylindrical wall, and opposing side walls having support members that are extendable. The gravity chamber has a first diameter when the support members are contracted, and has a larger second diameter when the support members are extended. The gravity chamber connects to the habitation module with rotating attachment members so that the gravity chamber rotates about an axis. The habitation module also includes an inflatable shell that encompasses the gravity chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Raju Dharmaraj, Patrick A. Swartzell, James Michael Engle, Thomas L. Hoffman, Travis Andrew Moseman, Karl David Heiman
  • Publication number: 20170197736
    Abstract: A habitation module with a gravity chamber that provides an artificial gravity environment. In one embodiment, the gravity chamber is annular and includes an outer cylindrical wall, an inner cylindrical structure, and opposing side walls that connect the outer cylindrical wall and the inner cylindrical structure. The gravity chamber attaches to a cylindrical core member of the habitation module with support bearings. The support bearing includes an inner race attached to the cylindrical core member, and an outer race attached to the gravity chamber. A drive mechanism drives the outer race of the support bearing to rotate the gravity chamber about an axis to simulate a gravitational force within the gravity chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Raju Dharmaraj, James Michael Engle, Patrick A. Swartzell, Karl David Heiman, Travis Andrew Moseman
  • Publication number: 20170197737
    Abstract: A habitation module with a gravity chamber that provides an artificial gravity environment. In one embodiment, the gravity chamber includes an outer cylindrical wall and opposing side walls. The gravity chamber attaches to a hull of the habitation module with support bearings. The support bearing includes an outer race attached to an inner surface of the hull, and an inner race attached to the gravity chamber. A drive mechanism drives the inner race of the support bearing to rotate the gravity chamber about an axis to simulate a gravitational force within the gravity chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Raju Dharmaraj, Patrick A. Swartzell, James Michael Engle, Karl David Heiman
  • Publication number: 20170197738
    Abstract: A habitation module with a gravity chamber that provides an artificial gravity environment. In one embodiment, the gravity chamber is annular and includes an outer cylindrical wall, an inner cylindrical structure, and opposing side walls that connect the outer cylindrical wall and the inner cylindrical structure. The gravity chamber attaches to an outer surface of a hull of the habitation module with support bearings. The support bearing includes an inner race attached to the outer surface of the hull, and an outer race attached to the gravity chamber. A drive mechanism drives the outer race of the support bearing to rotate the gravity chamber about an axis to simulate a gravitational force within the gravity chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Raju Dharmaraj, Patrick A. Swartzell, Karl David Heiman, Darby Grant Cooper, James Michael Engle
  • Publication number: 20170197739
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a powdered medicine dispensing apparatus, and a powdered medicine dispensation packaging apparatus using the same. According to the present invention, the production cost of the apparatus is significantly reduced, and thereby more precise uniform dispensing of the powered medicine can be facilitated while relying on half-manual operation by a worker, many distribution operations can be performed easily and speedily, and dispensing can be made responsive according to the amount that is dispensed and the amount that is packaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Soo Sun HA
  • Publication number: 20170197740
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a plunger, a plunger assembly, and a system for storing a substance or substances, preferably flowable substances, and a method of filling and sealing a substance in a storing system. In particular, the present invention provides for substantially air-free filling and storing of substances in a delivery system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Arno Hohmann, Marc Peuker, Sebastian Guggenmos, Michael Knee, Bruce R. Broyles
  • Publication number: 20170197741
    Abstract: The invention relates to a device for heat sealing a film lid placed on the rim of a glass, the device comprising a deformable and thermally conductive element designed to press against the film lid and the rim and to heat the film lid and the rim. A peripheral portion of the conductive element is arranged to extend beyond the rim. The device has means for hinging and suspending the conductive element, and means for transmitting a pressure force exerted by an actuator to the conductive element, which force transmission means are distinct from the means for hinging and suspending the conductive element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 16, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Applicant: 1/4 VIN
    Inventors: Pascal CARVIN, Christian MURA
  • Publication number: 20170197742
    Abstract: A load wrapping and transporting vehicle includes a vehicle frame, and a load support is connected to the vehicle frame for supporting a palletized load. An endless track is connected to the vehicle frame and extends about the load support. A spindle supports a roll of wrapping film and is guided by the endless track about the load support to wrap the palletized load with wrapping film dispensed by the roll of wrapping film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Michael G. Field, Steve Medwin, John Bryant Kirk
  • Publication number: 20170197743
    Abstract: A folding machine for wrapping a bundle of cigarettes in metal-laminated paper. A partially wrapped bundle of cigarettes, including an unwrapped trailing end, is received in a pocket of a shuttle from a pusher. The shuttle comprises a top folder, two side folders and two bottom folders that are integrated with the shuttle and can operate on the partially unwrapped package along respective edges of its end face and produce a wrapped package in the pocket. Another pusher is configured to eject the wrapped package from the pocket of the shuttle. The shuttle also includes a gripper for gripping the partially wrapped bundle. The driving mechanism for the gripper is integrated with the driving mechanism for the shuttle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Carl Jones, Philip Haddow
  • Publication number: 20170197744
    Abstract: A method and a system of devices for continuous sterilization or pasteurization of foodstuffs contained in specific rigid containers, followed by continuous deep-vacuum sealing of the containers. The evacuation is obtained by rotary steam injection between the lids and the receptacles followed by sealing of the containers and cold showering that brings about condensation of the steam inside the container and consequently a deep vacuum. This results in a long-lasting deep-vacuum preservation of the food under organoleptic and nutritional quality conditions with a drastic reduction in the cooling time of the containers after sterilization or pasteurization, The reduction in cooling time is obtained by a low-temperature boiling under vacuum, which boiling is homogeneously distributed throughout the whole of the container. It is particularly suitable for pasty or liquid products or products in chunks included in a liquid or pasty mixture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: JEAN LARROCHE, BRIGITTE LARROCHE
  • Publication number: 20170197745
    Abstract: Disclosed is a process for the treatment or processing of containers that serve for storing, or contain, substances for medical, pharmaceutical or cosmetic applications, wherein the containers are conveyed automatically, by a conveyor, past at least one processing station or pass it for the treatment or processing. In the process, a plurality of containers is conveyed by the conveyor while being held by a carrier in a regular arrangement. The containers held on the carrier are raised to a raised position for the treatment or processing at or in the respective processing station and are lowered after the treatment or processing, to be held again on the carrier in the regular arrangement. The carrier is configured such that the containers can be held on the carrier during the entire process. A negative pressure acts on the bottoms of the containers in order to lower them.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 15, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Gregor Fritz Deutschle, Joern Wassenberg, Alexander Wansel, Kai Wissner
  • Publication number: 20170197746
    Abstract: A forming station for a thermoform packaging machine, wherein the forming station comprises a forming tool upper part and a forming tool lower part that are each configured for cooperating so as to thermoform a film positioned between the forming tool lower part and the forming tool upper part. The forming station includes a first change bar that is adapted to be releasably attached to a reception area of the forming tool lower part and the first change bar carries a plurality of punches or blades.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Hans-Christian Schiche, Bastian Grondinger
  • Publication number: 20170197747
    Abstract: A tool for sealing a zipper lock bag comprises a first arm having first and second ends, the first arm defining a first longitudinal axis, a second arm having first and second ends, the second arm defining a second longitudinal axis. The second end of the second arm is connected to the second end of the first arm to define tongs. First and second rollers are rotationally mounted to the first arm near the first end about first and second axes of rotation that are substantially parallel to the first longitudinal axis. A third roller is rotationally mounted to the second arm near the first end about a third axis of rotation substantially parallel to the second longitudinal axis. The third roller is between the first roller and the second roller to engage both the first and second rollers when the first and second arms are squeezed together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: David Keehner
  • Publication number: 20170197748
    Abstract: A mechanism for dispensing pills from an array-type pill package is provided. The mechanism includes a chassis, a package holder, a cutting mechanism configured to cut a sidewall of an individual container in the array-type pill package, a dispensing mechanism configured to receive and dispense a cut individual container therein; and a control system configured to control a relative position of the cutting mechanism and the package holder along at least two degrees of freedom. A cutting mechanism is also provided. The cutting mechanism includes a cutter base movably mounted to the chassis, a cutting tool mounted to the cutting base and adapted for cutting a side wall of an individual container adjacent a common top surface of an array-type pill package to entirely detach individual container from the array-type package; and motor operatively to displace the cutting tool along a plane generally tangent to the package holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Terry Fagen, Hesham El-Adly, Dominic Gagnon-Tremblay, Marc-Antoine Archambault
  • Publication number: 20170197749
    Abstract: Provided is a delamination container having excellent content dischargeability. The delamination container includes an outer layer and an inner layer. The inner layer peels from the outer layer and shrinks with reductions in contents. The outer layer consists of a single layer or multiple layers. At least one of innermost and outermost layers of the outer layer contains a lubricant.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 24, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Applicant: KYORAKU CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Tetsuaki EGUCHI
  • Publication number: 20170197750
    Abstract: A container blank comprising a bottom portion defined on four sides by a first, second, third, and fourth bottom score, a first side portion partially defined by the first bottom score, a second side portion partially defined by the second bottom score, a front portion partially defined by the third bottom score, a back portion defined by the fourth bottom score, a first back connecting portion connecting the first side portion to the back portion, a second back connecting portion connecting the second side portion to the back portion, a first front connecting portion connecting the first side portion to the front portion, and a second front connecting portion connecting the second side portion to the front portion. Wherein folding of the side portions about their respective bottom scores causes the back and front portions to fold about their respective bottom scores.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Kurt Wolf, Jennifer Ehlers
  • Publication number: 20170197751
    Abstract: A bulk material shipping container including a pallet, a compartment mounted on the pallet, a material unloading assembly, and a material loading assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: C. John Allegretti, Anthony M. Raso, Lyndon Just
  • Publication number: 20170197752
    Abstract: The present invention provides a movable load bearing structure with a surface that includes antimicrobial agents capable of eliminating, preventing, retarding or minimizing the growth of microbes and also minimizing cross-contamination when the load bearing structure is being reused for cargos that differ from a previously transported cargo, for example, different food types, such as poultry, fresh vegetables, and fresh fruit. The load bearing structure may be a dunnage platform or a container for storing and/or shipping cargo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2015
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Rick Imbrecht, Chi Kong Lin
  • Publication number: 20170197753
    Abstract: A base assembly for supporting an item having internal components during shipment of the item is provided. The base assembly includes a base panel and two opposing end panel assemblies. The base panel includes two opposing end members, two opposing side members, and a plurality of support panels. Each end member and side member has an inner edge and an outer edge. Each support panel extends upwardly from one of the inner edges of the end members and the side members to support the internal components of the item. The end panel assemblies extend from the outer edges of the end members. Each end panel assembly includes an end panel vertically spaced a distance from an adjacent end member and a plurality of reinforcing panels positioned between the respective end panel and the adjacent end member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Joel Cram
  • Publication number: 20170197754
    Abstract: A multi-unit storage device wherein two separate compartments are attached together at their bottom portions. The containers are vacuum or otherwise sealed at their top portions such that when the top portions are opened, the seal is broken and access to the products contained therein is provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2017
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Gerry Gersovitz
  • Publication number: 20170197755
    Abstract: A cooking vessel is provided. The cooking vessel includes a vessel body, a handle, a locking portion and a bail. The vessel body has an inner surface and an outer surface. The handle has an upper surface, a lower surface, a proximal end and a distal end. The proximal end of the handle is coupled to the vessel body. The locking portion is disposed in one of either the lower surface and the distal end of the handle. The bail is coupled to the handle proximate the distal end of the handle. The bail is movable between an unlocked position and a locked position, and the bail is configured to cooperatively and lockingly engage a locking portion of a second cooking vessel when the bail is in the locked position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Jason LePinske, Kenneth C. Lundgreen, Hsuan-Tsun Wang
  • Publication number: 20170197756
    Abstract: A medication dispensing system includes a fluid and a plurality of pills. A bottle is provided and the fluid is contained within the bottle. The bottle has an outer wall and an inner wall. The inner wall defines a plurality of compartments with respect to the outer wall. Each of the compartments is fluidly discrete from an interior of the bottle. Each of the pills is removably positioned within an associated one of the compartments and each of the pills may be selectively consumed in conjunction with the fluid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 11, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Carlisle Stephens, Mary Stephens
  • Publication number: 20170197757
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a container for a beverage having an inner coating layer containing resveratrol, a process for preparing such a container, the use of said container for the storage of a beverage and the use of resveratrol as an additive to coating layers of such containers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventors: Gregory John Charles Stokes, Steven John Anthony Barics
  • Publication number: 20170197758
    Abstract: The invention provides a synthetic resin container with a plurality of handgrips on its top face and a manufacturing method for such a container. The plurality of handgrips, as well as an opening, are molded in advance as insertion components. After heating the fusion portions of the insertion components, the insertion components are disposed parallel to the direction in which a parison is to be placed. Thereafter, a parison is placed into dies, and the dies are clamped. Air is blown into the parison through the opening to fuse the parison and the insertion components.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 13, 2016
    Publication date: July 13, 2017
    Inventor: Akira TOSHIKAWA