Patents Issued in August 22, 2017
  • Patent number: 9737115
    Abstract: A lacing system for tightening an article includes a first guide that is coupled with the article and positioned within a first zone of the article and a second guide that is coupled with the article and positioned within a second zone of the article with at least a portion of the second zone being different than the first zone. A first tension member is guided by the first guide within the first zone and a second tension member is guided by the second guide within the second zone. Tensioning of the first tension member or second tension member causes tightening of the respective zone of the article. A tensioning mechanism is also coupled with the article and with the first and second tension members. The tensioning mechanism is configured to tension the first and second tension members to tighten the first and second zones of the article.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Boa Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Soderberg, Brett Vladika, Robert Burns, Michael Nickel, Aaron Venturini, Jesse Cotterman
  • Patent number: 9737116
    Abstract: A retention system for footwear can include opposed closure elements and a tensioner configured to urge the opposed closure elements toward each other in response to a tensile force applied to the tensioner. Opposed first and second anchors can be spaced from the tensioner. A retainer can have opposed first and second retainer couplers. The first retainer coupler can operatively engage the first anchor and the second retainer coupler can operatively engage the second anchor such that a tensile load applied to one or both of the first and second retainer couplers urges the retainer toward one or both of the first and second anchors. Each of the retainer couplers can be operatively engaged with the tensioner such that a tensile load applied to the tensioner urges the first retainer coupler and the second retainer coupler into tension and thereby urges the retainer toward one or both of the anchors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Vans, Inc.
    Inventors: Garrett Gibb, Tristan Modena
  • Patent number: 9737117
    Abstract: A lace fitting structure for fitting an upper 3 wrapping around an instep of a foot to the instep, the structure including: a medial side portion 31 covering the instep and a medial side surface of a big toe; a lateral side portion 32 covering the instep and a lateral side surface of a little toe; first shoelace means 1 placed to extend in a longitudinal direction Y of the foot and engaged with the medial side portion 31 and the lateral side portion 32 along central edge portions 33 of the medial side portion 31 and the lateral side portion 32; placement means for placing a portion of the first shoelace means 1 so that the first shoelace means 1 is exposed in a plurality of exposed areas 1i, which are separated from one another in the longitudinal direction Y; and second shoelace means 2 engaging, in a transverse direction X of the foot, with the first shoelace means 1 in the plurality of exposed areas 1i so as to bring the medial side portion 31 and the lateral side portion 32 closer to each other, wherein a
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Asics Corporation
    Inventors: Mai Nonogawa, Keizo Nakanishi
  • Patent number: 9737118
    Abstract: An adjustable link for bracelets, including a first half link and a second half link arranged to be assembled to move with respect to each other, including an adjustment, and a locking mechanism cooperating with a complementary locking mechanism in order to form a captive assembly. The adjustment includes a screw, a hole passing through the first half link, and a blind threaded hole extending into the second half link, the through hole and the blind threaded hole facing each other, and being arranged to cooperate with the screw to continuously adjust the position of the first half link and of the second half link in the longitudinal direction in order to adjust the position between a maximum position and a minimum position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: The Swatch Group Research and Development Ltd
    Inventor: Paulo Bravo
  • Patent number: 9737119
    Abstract: A watch type terminal includes a main body, and a strap connected to the main body. In the watch type terminal, the strap includes one or more modules each having a specific function, and one or more partition straps having the one or more modules respectively received thereat. In the strap, the module and the partition strap are electrically connected to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Yongho Lee, Kwanghyun Ahn, Junho Yang
  • Patent number: 9737120
    Abstract: According to certain embodiments of the present disclosure, a mobility device includes, an elongated body having a first end and a second end; a joint near the first end of the body configured to attach the body to at least one of; a walker, a wheelchair, or a rollator; and a coupler near the second end of the body configured to removably attach the body to the striker plate of an automobile doorframe.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Vadim Gordin
  • Patent number: 9737121
    Abstract: An adaptive ambulatory support includes a shock absorbing and pivoting tip assembly attached to the staff of a walking aid, such as a cane, crutch or walker. The shock absorbing and pivoting tip assembly includes a shock absorber sandwiched between a lower portion and an upper portion. The shock absorber may be a bendable spring or elastic material. The tip assembly enables the shaft of the walking aid to dynamically pivot without the loss of adherence of the lower portion to the floor surface and simultaneous provides the adaptive shock absorbing capability in any angle during ambulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: 3C AUTOMATION, INC.
    Inventors: Shyh Min Chen, James Dale Jordan, Dale Bourland Jordan
  • Patent number: 9737122
    Abstract: A convertible carrying device in which the straps may be selectively secured to configure the device as a backpack or as a handbag. In the handbag configurations, the selective securing of the straps effectuates differing functional strap lengths enabling the handbag to be carried by hand, over a shoulder, or cross body. The arrangement of the connection points on the bag and the straps applies directional forces to the placket surrounding the opening that make it adopt a valley shape when in a handbag configuration and a planar orientation when in the backpack configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventors: Mari Christine Ives, Kathleen Anne McInroe
  • Patent number: 9737123
    Abstract: A waterproof case for an electronic device that includes an upper housing member and a lower housing member including lugs formed thereon attaching to a strap member. A sealing wrap is positioned about an electronic device. The sealing wrap is positioned between the upper and lower housing members when the upper and lower housing members are coupled. The sealing wrap includes an alignment feature formed thereon. The alignment feature engages the upper or lower housing member and positions the wrap within the upper and lower housing members wherein axial seal members formed on the wrap are compressed and engage the device when the upper and lower housing members are coupled defining a continuous seal about the device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: CATALYST LIFESTYLE LIMITED
    Inventors: Joshua Wright, June Lai
  • Patent number: 9737124
    Abstract: A baffle plate mechanism for a hair curler, mounted between a shell and a heating roller of the hair curler, comprises a button extending out of the shell; a push switch mounted in the shell and connected to the button; a telescope apparatus mounted in the shell; wherein the telescope apparatus includes a movable push rod and an electromagnet for driving the movable push rod to do a telescopic movement when electricity is applied; the movable push rod penetrates the electromagnet; the electromagnet is coupled electrically to the push switch; and a baffle plate coupled to an end of the movable push rod and opposite to the heating roller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: SHENZHEN FENDA ELECTRICAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yong Xiao, Mianjia Wei
  • Patent number: 9737125
    Abstract: An electric hairdryer comprises an electric motor, having an electric motor shaft, on which an air fan is assembled, said hairdryer comprising moreover an electric motor protecting device including a tapering body arranged between the electric motor and the air fan, and so designed as to hold therein an electric fan impeller hub, at a base portion of said electric fan, and to prevent a clearance from forming between the motor shaft bushing or ball bearing and the air fan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: ELCHIM S.P.A.
    Inventor: Roberto Sabbatini
  • Patent number: 9737126
    Abstract: A combination dispenser and applicator has a dispenser body for mounting the dispenser body over a valve of a container of nail polish. The dispenser body has a brush receiver that receives the nail polish from the valve of the container. A disposable applicator brush, not including a valve, but with bristles adjacent a distal end, is shaped to removably engage the brush receiver. The disposable applicator brushes are inexpensive and disposable, and may be readily changed during use of the combination, so that one of the brushes is not used on multiple persons, thereby enabling a more hygienic method of applying nail polish.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Yoram Fishman
  • Patent number: 9737127
    Abstract: A device to contain and deliver fluid substances includes: a container including a housing suitable for containing a substance to be delivered; a feed element for feeding the substance outside the container, including a piston portion inserted inside the housing of the container, and a conveyance portion connected to the piston portion; a dispenser cap connected to the conveyance portion and such as to push the piston portion into the housing of the container and to deliver the substance; at least one element to guide the movement of the piston portion into the housing of the container; wherein the piston portion of the feed element is operated only manually by acting onto the dispensing cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: LUMSON S.P.A.
    Inventor: Matteo Moretti
  • Patent number: 9737128
    Abstract: An improved bottle, retaining device and associated elements for carrying items is disclosed. The retaining device is adapted for holding a container (or containers) or other items; the retaining device being adapted to affix the container by way of the retaining device to a person or a personal item so ready access is provided for the held container/item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: AMPHIPOD, INC.
    Inventors: Keith S. Willows, June A. Angus, Antonio Del Rosario
  • Patent number: 9737129
    Abstract: Embodiments of the invention relate to load carrier systems and associated manufacturing methods. In one embodiment, a load carrier system can include a unitary piece of material. The unitary piece of material can include a body portion comprising a first face side, an opposing face side, a first peripheral edge and an opposing second peripheral edge; and one or more straps comprising a respective extended end, wherein the straps are an integral part of the body portion; wherein the one or more straps are folded over onto the first face side adjacent to the first peripheral edge; and wherein at least one respective end of the one or more straps is fastened to the opposing second peripheral edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: BLUE FORCE GEAR, INC.
    Inventors: Stephen G. Hilliard, Ashley A. Burnsed, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9737130
    Abstract: A device and method for one-handed securing and controlling of a container with decreased stress and pressure upon the thumb, wrist, forearm and hand of the user. The device utilizes an attached spring-activated swivel gate hook to engage the semi-circular bale handle of a can in various positions that allow for maximum control and flexibility in the manipulation of the container combined with the freedom to adjust the grip of the can without giving up the option to work with both hands. The weight of the can, is in all situations, is equally distributed and centered at the point of flexion of the wrist. Ease of movement is accomplished while supporting the hand, wrist and lower forearm of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Justin Michael Frontino
  • Patent number: 9737131
    Abstract: The eye glasses holding clip is a device for the storage of eye glasses. The device is adapted to be attached to, and worn with, eye glasses. When the eye glasses are removed, the eye glasses holding clip allows the user to attach, carry, and store the eye glasses on an article of clothing or other object. The eye glasses holding clip comprises a rectangular tube, a hinge, and a clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Dale Oaks
  • Patent number: 9737132
    Abstract: There is provided a device for securing a compact portable device to an external arrangement and the device includes a base attachable to the external arrangement, a panel, an attachment for securing the compact portable device to the panel, and a movement element movably connecting the panel to the base in a manner such that the panel can selectively be oriented in one orientation to support the compact portable device in generally facing relationship to the base generally and in another orientation in which the compact portable device is not in generally facing relationship to the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventors: Judi Lynn Bruns, Daniel James Bruns
  • Patent number: 9737133
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a cleaning device and in particular, to such a cleaning device that is adapted to having a controllable and expandable cleaning surface head. The expandable cleaning surface head is associated with a handle where movement in the vertical direction of the handle is adapted to horizontal movement that controls the size of cleaning surface head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventors: Yiftach Hevlin, Omer Hevlin
  • Patent number: 9737134
    Abstract: An oral care implement having a flexible handle. In one embodiment, the invention can be an oral care implement comprising: a head; and a handle extending along a longitudinal axis and connected to the head, the handle comprising: a main body integrally formed of a rigid material, the main body comprising a rigid gripping section terminating in a bulbous body, a rigid neck section terminating in a basin, and a flexible strut having a first end connected to the bulbous body and a second end connected to a floor of the basin; a resilient material encasing the flexible strut; and the flexible strut and the resilient material forming a hinge about which the rigid neck section pivots relative to the rigid gripping section upon a force being applied to the head.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY
    Inventors: Robert Moskovich, Thomas Mintel, Andreas Wechsler, Douglas Hohlbein, Jan Felix Muller, Alan Sorrentino, Al Sprosta
  • Patent number: 9737135
    Abstract: An oral care implement having an applicator and a cover member. In one aspect, the invention is an oral care implement comprising: a handle body extending along a longitudinal axis from a distal end to a proximal end; an applicator at the proximal end of the handle body, the applicator fluidly coupled to a reservoir containing an oral care material; a cover member having a cap portion, the cap portion comprising a resilient valve that is self-biased into a closed state so as to enclose the applicator; and wherein relative positioning between the applicator and the cover member can be altered between: (1) a storage state in which the cap portion of the cover member encloses the applicator and the resilient valve is in the closed state; and (2) an application state in which the applicator extends through the resilient valve and the resilient valve is in an open state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: COLGATE-PALMOLIVE COMPANY
    Inventor: Kelly Gail Duncan
  • Patent number: 9737136
    Abstract: An overhead support includes a transparent structure to support a visual medium for display to a supine viewer. The support is suspended from a ceiling over a location where the viewer wishes to recline. The support includes a positioning mechanism for easily adjusting the height of the visual medium above the viewer. In an embodiment, the positioning mechanism has a lock for fixing the height. In another embodiment, the support includes a light source. In another embodiment, the support includes an optical prescription.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Jonathan Toland
  • Patent number: 9737137
    Abstract: A bracket for supporting electronic devices includes first and second supporting arms, the first connecting arm defining a first connecting portion and the second connecting arm defining a second connecting portion. The first connecting portion and the second connecting portion can pivot around each other. Either the first connecting portion or the second connecting portion can define a positioning protrusion which is in use hidden, and the other can define a plurality of positioning grooves which are also hidden in use. The positioning protrusion being received in different positioning grooves renders the angle between the first supporting arm and the second supporting arm adjustable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignees: Fu Tai Hua Industry (Shenzhen) Co., Ltd., HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Chao Liu
  • Patent number: 9737138
    Abstract: A shared workstation apparatus with converging treadmills including treadmills with centerlines that are transversely oriented towards each other at an angle, which can for example be an acute angle. The shared workstation includes a frame, a first treadmill, a second treadmill, and at least one shared work surface located above the treadmills. The orientation of the treadmills and the shared work surface allows users to share work with each other across the shared work space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Paul Brian Siebert, William Cesare Cesaroni, Morad Ghassemian, Brian Young Lee, Christopher Justin Mayer
  • Patent number: 9737139
    Abstract: Rack and drawer systems include a first tray configured to receive spices and/or other objects, a first glider mechanism coupled to the first tray on a first side, the first glider mechanism further configured to couple to a first additional object, the first additional object selected from the group including an external structure, an extension housing coupled to the external structure, and a first backer plate coupled to the external structure, and a first cam mechanism coupled to the first tray on the first side, the first cam mechanism structured to fit within a first guide channel defined within the additional object, wherein the first tray is structured to extend from the external structure in at least a horizontal manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Drawers In Motion, LLC
    Inventor: Douglas Knake
  • Patent number: 9737140
    Abstract: A household object storage system for storing objects in an elevated position within a building. The household object storage system includes a platform and a lift system. The platform has a surface upon which at least one household object may be placed. The lift system includes at least one platform attachment, at least one building attachment, a winch and a rope. The at least one platform attachment is attachable to the platform. The at least one building attachment is attachable to the building. The winch is attachable to the building. The rope operably engages the platform attachment, the building attachment and the winch so that the winch may be used to move the platform between a lower configuration and an elevated configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Michael A. Bondi
  • Patent number: 9737141
    Abstract: Wire-grid walls attachable to a stand or tool holding apparatus are configured to receive material holding apparatus, e.g., shelf baskets, disc holders, box holders, hooks, etc. The material holding apparatus may be configured to hold various material in an organized, open, and unobstructed manner to provide convenient access to the material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: INNOVATIVE TOOLS & TECHNOLOGIES, INC.
    Inventor: Bryan T. Johnson
  • Patent number: 9737142
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a furniture system and a method for arranging the same capable of improving a space efficiency using a rectangular pillar. In accordance with the present invention, a plurality of tables can be arranged efficiently in a limited space without sacrificing the convenience and privacy of the users of the tables.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Choong Chul Cho
  • Patent number: 9737143
    Abstract: A protection device (1) or protecting a rack system against impact, comprising an outer shell (2) which is configured to be fitted on an upright column of a rack system, and an inner element (3) which is provided in the outer shell (2) and is made of a flexible material and which, in use, is arranged against or adjacent to a part of the column, in which the inner element (3) is hingeably connected to the inner periphery of the outer shell (2) by its longitudinal ends (6), so that the inner element (3) bends in the direction of the outer shell (2) upon impact so that this outer shell (2) is clamped more securely to the column onto which this outer shell (2) is fitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: BOPLAN BVBA
    Inventor: Xavier Ramon
  • Patent number: 9737144
    Abstract: A apparatus and system for removably storing storage containers in an area, such as a garage or shed, having one or more overhead area supports, such as a joist, ceiling or the like, so as to position the storage containers below the area supports above the floor of the area. The apparatus has a container engaging section that holds the container and a mounting section that mounts the apparatus to the area supports. The container engaging section has a static support member and a dynamic support assembly that define a container space for a container. The static support member engages one lip of the container. The dynamic support assembly has a plurality of dynamic supports, each with a biasing mechanism that biases an insert member relative to a tubular receiver member. A device attached to the insert member engages an opposing lip of the container to secure the container.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Daniel Everett Brown
  • Patent number: 9737145
    Abstract: A portable seating apparatus includes a frame having first and second sides. A seat is disposed between the first and second sides of the frame. The seat is suspended between the first and second sides of the frame by multiple tension members such as straps. A first arm rest and first base member are positioned on the first side of the frame, and a second arm rest and second base member are positioned on the second side of the frame. One or more straps extends downwardly from each arm rest to support the suspended seat. In some embodiments, the first and second sides are hinged such that the seating apparatus may be folded for transport and storage. An arm rest hinge is disposed on each arm rest, and a base member hinge is disposed on each base member in some embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventors: Aric Dewayne Butler, William Christopher Cross
  • Patent number: 9737146
    Abstract: A frameless furniture assembly adapted to be converted between an unfilled configuration and a filled configuration including: an outer liner having an inner surface and an outer surface; a plurality of pieces of fill material, wherein the fill material is retained within the outer liner; and at least one configuration support member associated with the inner surface of the outer liner. The frameless furniture assembly is preferably adapted to support a human in a seated position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Comfort Research, LLC
    Inventors: Daniel C. George, II, Matthew Jung
  • Patent number: 9737147
    Abstract: A folding chair has a backrest, a seat and legs that are coupled to two hinges. The folding chair has an open position and a closed position. In the closed position the backrest portion is parallel to the seat portion and in the open position the angle between the seat portion and the backrest portion is greater than 90 degrees. The hinges are made of two elongated rod structures each having a helical center section. The two elongated rod structures are coupled together with a bolt to form the hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Shape Field Office
    Inventor: Karson Shadley
  • Patent number: 9737148
    Abstract: A guard for a rotatable or swivel seat includes a first generally planar surface and an opposing second generally planar surface. The first and second surfaces define an inner peripheral edge that surrounds a central opening. A skirt extends generally perpendicularly from the first and second surfaces. The skirt generally surrounds and is spaced radially outwardly from the inner peripheral edge. The guard includes a plurality of equidistantly spaced-apart fastener points formed on or in at least one of the first and second surfaces. Each fastener point is spaced radially outwardly from the inner peripheral edge and radially inwardly from the skirt. The guard is attachable to a platform of a seat in both a first configuration wherein the skirt of the guard extends away from the platform of the seat and a second configuration wherein the guard is inverted from the first configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: KGM Gaming LLC
    Inventor: Lance Weiss
  • Patent number: 9737149
    Abstract: A height adjustable bed framework 12 includes a base frame 24, an elevatable frame 30, a lift chain 50 and a power module 52. The lift chain is connected to the base frame or the elevatable frame and the power module is connected to the other frame. The power module includes an energy converter such as an electric motor 90, a planetary gear train 110 driven by the energy converter and a chain driver, such as a sprocket 160, engaged with the lift chain and driven by the planetary gear train.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John K. Heidlage, David W. Hornbach, Stephen Hutchison
  • Patent number: 9737150
    Abstract: Aspects of this invention relate to an adjustable bed frame assembly that includes a first frame that includes two substantially parallel side frame members and at least one connector member between the parallel side frame members, a second frame comprising two substantially parallel side frame members, each of the side frame members having a lower end pivotally attached to one of the at least one connector member of the first frame, a bracket that includes a sliding slot, where in the bracket is securely attached to the second frame; and an actuator with a first end pivotally attached to the first frame and a second end that is slidably connected to the sliding slot of the bracket, wherein, when the actuator extends or retracts, the second end travels within the sliding slot without moving the second frame until an extent of the sliding slot is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Martin B. Rawls-Meehan
  • Patent number: 9737151
    Abstract: A sleep barrier system for separating users during sleep includes a bed that has a top side, a headboard and a pair of pillows. A barrier is selectively positioned on the bed. The barrier extends between the pair of pillows. Moreover, the barrier sequesters a pair of users thereby inhibiting the users from physically disturbing each other during sleep.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Gary Orlando
  • Patent number: 9737152
    Abstract: A support element, for example a plate, a mattress, a pillow, a seating plane of a chair, of an armchair, a saddle for vehicles and the like, equipped with a resting surface for a user, includes at least one first layer in gel associated with at least one second layer of different material; such a first layer in gel and such a second layer, that are associated, are crossed by through openings that are suitable for the proper circulation of air from one side to the other of the support element, so as to allow the optimal transpiration and thermal regulation of the parts of the body of the user positioned resting on the support element itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: TECHNOGEL ITALIA S.R.L.
    Inventor: Matteo Mason
  • Patent number: 9737153
    Abstract: A configurable, adjustable inflatable device including one or more inflatable bladders and a shape-defining member that combines with the inflatable bladders such that an overall shape of the configurable inflatable device is at least partially controlled by the shape-defining member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Robert B. Chaffee
  • Patent number: 9737154
    Abstract: A method for adjusting pressure within an air bed comprises providing an air bed that includes an air chamber and a pump having a pump housing, selecting a desired pressure setpoint for the air chamber, calculating a pressure target, adjusting pressure within the air chamber until a pressure within the pump housing is substantially equal to the pressure target, determining an actual chamber pressure within the air chamber, and comparing the actual chamber pressure to the desired pressure setpoint to determine an adjustment factor error. The pressure target may be calculated based upon the desired pressure setpoint and a pressure adjustment factor. Furthermore, the pressure adjustment factor may be modified based upon the adjustment factor error determined by comparing the actual chamber pressure to the desired pressure setpoint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventors: Paul James Mahoney, Matthew Glen Hilden, Matthew Wayne Tilstra
  • Patent number: 9737155
    Abstract: This disclosure concerns a communication system adapted to communicate between a handheld remote control and a first adjustable bed controller of a first adjustable bed facility, and a second communication system adapted to communicate between the first adjustable bed controller of the first adjustable bed facility and a second adjustable bed controller of a second adjustable bed facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Martin B. Rawls-Meehan
  • Patent number: 9737156
    Abstract: A refrigerated merchandiser including a case that defines a product display area and an access opening. The case has an air inlet and an air outlet, and a passageway fluidly connects the air inlet with the air outlet to direct a refrigerated airflow across the customer access opening in the form of an air curtain. The merchandiser also includes shelves that are coupled to the case. Each shelf includes an inlet, an outlet, a fan unit disposed in the shelf, and a heat exchanger. The fan unit is in communication with the passageway to draw air through the inlet to direct a portion of the airflow through the shelf toward the outlet. The heat exchanger is disposed in the shelf to cool the airflow in the shelf to provide independent zone cooling to a predetermined region of the product display area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Hussmann Corporation
    Inventor: Raymond P. Twohy
  • Patent number: 9737157
    Abstract: A display assembly is provided with a base, and a plurality of receptacles supported by the base. Each of the plurality of receptacles is sized to receive a plurality of cards. Each of the plurality of receptacles has a distal end with an opening for display, receipt and removal of at least one of the plurality of cards and a proximal end to provide a limit to a depth of receipt for the plurality of cards within the receptacle. Each receptacle is oriented such that a direction from the distal end to the proximal end is angularly offset from vertical about a fore/aft axis relative to the base for customer access of at least one of the plurality of cards. Multiple arrays of receptacles are provided with a central array having a quantity of receptacles that is different than the other arrays to create a non-rectangular overall profile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Behr Process Corporation
    Inventors: Erika Woelfel, Mark Germain, Amy Tow Harmon, Sarah Furnari, Joel Barenbrugge, Michael J. Ebert, Thomas E. Hubley, Jeffrey B. Fridrich
  • Patent number: 9737158
    Abstract: An integral head sling support apparatus and system for a person for use primarily during travel, comprising a head band or piece adapted to fit around the forehead of the person and a harness extending from the headband assembly to a sling assembly adapted to receive the person's arms. The integral head sling support further comprises a headrest assembly of a neck pillow and guide for one or more straps configured to utilize the weight of the persons arms in the sling assembly to pull rearward the person's head and anchor while supporting the person's head so that the person can sleep in an upright seated position. The one or more adjustable straps may be a portion of the sling assembly pass behind the head, along the back and under the person's armpits so that when the person is seated and places their arms in the sling assembly, the weight of the person's arms provide the weight of an anchor for the integral head sling support apparatus and system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: TRIPGEAR LLC
    Inventor: Kevin Kreppein
  • Patent number: 9737159
    Abstract: A divider device and method for placement of the device upon a surface to divide a pair of different articles, the divider device includes an extension beam having proximal and distal ends, also having first and second ends, in addition a flexible flange extending outward from the proximal end omni-directionally about the entire beam first and second ends with the flange terminating in a periphery, further the flange having an elongated concave trough surface opposite the extension beam. Operationally the concave trough surface is pressed into direct contact with the surface, thus nearly flattening the concave shape as against the surface to form a substantially fluid tight removable engagement with the surface thus separating the pair of different articles in relation to the surface and the divider device to help prevent communication as between the pair of different articles on the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventors: Ruby Kirin Lucken, Susan Brown Lucken
  • Patent number: 9737161
    Abstract: According to an example aspect of the present invention, there is provided a paper cup comprising: a base; a sidewall; said base and said sidewall together defining a space for receiving liquid or food; an upper end portion of the cup comprising a first and second pair of opposing closure panels, whereby each panel is attached to an upper edge of the sidewall via a respective first folding line and to adjacent panels via respective second folding lines. Said panels are foldable into a closed position to form a lid of the cup. Each panel of said first pair contains two additional folding lines to enable folding inwards. Upon folding to the closed position, a first panel of said second pair is partly inserted below a second panel of said second pair, and the panels of said second pair close the upper end portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: Metsä Board Oyj
    Inventor: Alan Li
  • Patent number: 9737162
    Abstract: A dispenser for wrapped straws has a housing with a hopper with upright plates forming parts of reciprocating assemblies that move outwardly when a front actuator engages a cam plate for axial movement. A composite plunger assembly travels on the cam plate. The plunger assembly has multiple spring loaded ejector members. When the cam plate is advanced one of the ejector members will encounter a straw in the hopper which is by chance positioned to be advanced through an outlet opening. The other ejector members, encountering straws not well positioned for ejection, will be depressed, but will not dispense a straw. A user extracts the one partially protruding straw and returns the cam plate to its initial position which causes the reciprocating assemblies to return to a central position, thereby shuffling the wrapped straws and presenting them again to the plunger assembly for the next dispensing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Jeffrey E. Gunderson
  • Patent number: 9737163
    Abstract: A shoe changing support assembly includes a body portion defining a support surface. The shoe changing support assembly defines a shoe removal opening along a perimeter edge of the body portion. The body portion receives a portion of a shoe within the shoe removal opening to facilitate shoe removal. A support portion is coupled to the body portion and includes a first lateral support structure extending along a first axis. A second lateral support structure is spaced a distance apart from the first lateral support structure and extending along a second axis. A transverse support structure extends along a transverse axis that is substantially perpendicular to the first axis and the second axis. The transverse support structure extends between the first lateral support structure and the second lateral support structure. The transverse support structure is coupled to the first lateral support structure and the second lateral support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: Donald Robert Rykena
  • Patent number: 9737164
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a temperature prompting method and device. The method includes: acquiring a current temperature in a target container; acquiring a distance of the target container to a target terminal, which is linked to the target container; determining, according to the current temperature, a first time duration to be elapsed when a temperature in the target container changes to a predetermined target temperature; determining, according to the distance of the target container to the target terminal, a second time duration to be elapsed when the target terminal moves to a location where the target container stands; and triggering a prompt signal if the first time duration is less than or equal to the second time duration. According to the present disclosure, temperature control flexibility may be improved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Assignee: XIAOMI INC.
    Inventors: Pengfei Zhang, Yongfeng Xia, Heng Qu, Yidong Wang
  • Patent number: 9737165
    Abstract: A device for preparing tea using a tea bag which dunks the bag for a selected amount of time, then removes the bag from the tea to end the infusion process. The device allows for a more convenient way to brew healthier and more precisely made tea.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2017
    Inventor: David Joseph Talarico