Patents Issued in October 24, 2017
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Patent number: 9795245Abstract: A kitchen appliance includes a first reservoir for receiving a liquid to be used for preparing a beverage and a hot water generator (‘HWG’) which has an inlet end, an outlet end and a passageway therebetween. The inlet end of the HWG is connected to the first reservoir. Liquid from the first reservoir flows into the HWG through the inlet end. A second reservoir is connected to the outlet end of the HWG. The second reservoir includes a discharge port. A fluid path connects the first and second reservoirs and bypasses the HWG. The kitchen appliance is operable for both pressurized brew/heat cycles and un-pressurized brew/heat cycles.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2013Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Hamilton Beach Brands, Inc.Inventors: Patrick T Mulvaney, Adam Hanes, Willilam D Starr
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Patent number: 9795246Abstract: The present invention pertains in general to an apparatus and method for the infusing, agitation and dispensation of oils in a controlled manner to produce a desired potency of an infusion while remaining below an identified maximum temperature threshold.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2017Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: LEVO OIL INFUSION, LLCInventors: Christina Spencer Bellman, Joseph Alexander Scaglione
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Patent number: 9795247Abstract: A machine (1) for preparing a beverage comprises: a mixing unit (10) for receiving a capsule (5) containing a pre-portioned flavoring ingredient; a liquid circuit (20) for circulating a liquid from a liquid reservoir (25) into the mixing unit for mixing said flavoring ingredient and said liquid to form the beverage (6); a beverage outlet (30) for dispensing such beverage upon formation to a beverage dispensing area (35) for supporting a user-cup or a user-mug (100); and a carrying handle (50) for seizing and carrying such machine single-handed. The carrying handle (50), in particular when seized single-handed during such carrying: extends over and above said beverage dispensing area (35); and/or has a seizure surface (51) forming a loop (52) in cross-section around the mixing unit (10) and/or the beverage outlet (30), the seizure surface being seizable by a single human hand (2) over a predominant part of the cross-sectional loop (52).Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2011Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Nestec S.A.Inventors: Frederique Huillet, Fabien Ludovic Agon
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Patent number: 9795248Abstract: A brew basket includes a body defining an internal cavity for holding a quantity of a beverage component, such that, in use, water introduced into the internal cavity contacts and passes through the beverage component to produce a brewed beverage. The brew basket further includes an outlet orifice for the brewed beverage defined by a downward extension of the brew basket. A cap engages the downward extension of the brew basket, with an opening defined through a bottom wall of the cap. A gasket is received in the cap, and a thickness of the gasket determines a position of the cap relative to the downward extension of the brew basket, and thus determines a flow rate of the brewed beverage from the outlet orifice through the opening defined through the bottom wall of the cap.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Grindmaster CorporationInventor: Robert M. Ench
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Patent number: 9795249Abstract: An automatic coffee machine including a hydraulic circuit having a fixed terminal piece, for supplying water and/or steam, accessible from a front wall of the machine at a distance above a resting surface of the machine. Also included is a dispenser extending frontally of the front wall, comprising a hollow body having a first longitudinal portion, and a second longitudinal portion rigidly connected to the first longitudinal portion and developing along a second longitudinal axis transverse to a first longitudinal axis of the first longitudinal portion. The first longitudinal portion has a first longitudinal end conformed for a rigid, removable hydraulic and mechanical connection with the fixed terminal piece and a second longitudinal end distal from the front wall, wherefrom the second longitudinal portion extends. The second longitudinal portion slidingly supports along the axis thereof an extension for regulating a dispensing distance from the resting surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: De'Longhi Appliances S.R.L.Inventors: Giuseppe De'Longhi, Andrea Aibionti, Edy Altoe′
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Patent number: 9795250Abstract: The present invention relates to a cooking device, including a housing, a base, an inner, a lid and a heating module. The housing is arranged on the base and is provided with a storage chamber, the inner pot is arranged inside the storage chamber, and the lid is arranged on the housing matching with the opening of the storage chamber. The cooking device further includes a control module and an exhaust module, the control module consists of a processor and an input panel connected with the processor; the heating module includes a bottom heating unit inside the storage chamber, the bottom heating unit is connected with the processor; and the exhaust module includes an air-filled element, an air-extraction element, an inlet passage and an exhaust passage, the air-filled element and the air-extraction element are respectively connected with the processor.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: ZEZHI INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY SERVICEInventor: Zhonghui Huang
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Patent number: 9795251Abstract: Disclosed is a grid-like device for the support of the bottom exterior surface of a cooking vessel, the grid being removably placed atop the upper exterior surface of an outdoor cooking grill or smoker. Three identically-shaped and symmetrically bent metal rectangular bands are conjoined at their midpoints to form essentially a spherical grid shape. A series of symmetrical bends, arcs, and rounds are formed at specific intervals transverse to the length of each band such that the cumulative shape of the adjoined bands forms the grid. The bottom-most segment of the support grid comprises legs and feet of a semi-rigid elasticity such that the support device may be flexibly placed about the top of the grill or smoker. Spring tension coils connect the inner surfaces of the bands to stabilize the grid shape and to impart leveraged gripping force upon the feet of the grid.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: Joshua Rosecrans
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Patent number: 9795252Abstract: A roller grill cover having: an elongated body that extends over the length of the grill rollers and which includes a pair of arms for engaging the top of the sides of the roller grill to provide stability for the cover; a front flange is angled downwardly from the front end of the body to limit a consumer's view of the rollers (and their contents) underneath and behind the flange. The body may include a rear flange that extends upwardly to provide access to the rollers behind the front flange for product placement and removal. The front flange may include a mirror finish or other reflective materials to allow the food items on the front rollers to be reflected off of the flange to give the visual appearance that there are more food items then actually shown.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: EBY-BROWN COMPANY, LLCInventor: Mathew Mandeltort
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Patent number: 9795253Abstract: Thermally convertible food presentation modules are described. A single module may be used for both heating and refrigeration of foodstuffs as desired at any given time. Any well of a module may be switched between heating and cooling of food regardless of the status of any other well of the module.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Low Temp Industries, Inc.Inventor: Howell B. Shackelford
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Patent number: 9795254Abstract: A receiving element for a screw-type shower tray valve, for insertion into a continuous outlet opening of a shower floor panel, having a first flat side and a second flat side directed away from the first one, an annular body that can be inserted from the first flat side into the outlet opening and that bears with its bearing collar on the first flat side of the shower floor panel, the bearing collar merging into an inclined profiled wall of the annular body and running out into a cylindrical inner wall, and a support flange that can be inserted from the second flat side of the shower floor panel into the outlet opening and that bears with its bearing collar on the second flat side of the shower floor panel. The wall of the annular body and the support flange each has at least one circumferential rib.Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: wedi GmbHInventor: Stephan Wedi
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Patent number: 9795255Abstract: An electronic soap dispenser includes an upper dispensing head supported above a sink deck, and a liquid soap reservoir and a pump assembly supported below the sink deck. A capacitive sensor is operably coupled to the dispensing head. A controller is in electrical communication with the capacitive sensor and activates the pump assembly in response to input from the capacitive sensor.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Delta Faucet CompanyInventors: Michael Scot Rosko, Alfred Charles Nelson, Jeffrey Lee Moore, Randy L. Schneider, II
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Patent number: 9795256Abstract: The invention discloses an elastic bag foam pump, which comprises a bottle cover (1), an elastic bag (2), a piston rod (3), a piston (4), a liquid inlet one-way valve (6) and a gas inlet one-way valve (8), wherein the elastic bag (2) is a hollow thin-wall bag; the bag opening of the elastic bag is provided with a connection part (2.1); the connection part (2.1) is mounted on an annular wall (1.1) used for connection on the bottle cover (1) in a sealing way; the elastic bag (2) is provided with an inlet hole (1.8) through which an inlet pipe (2.4) is communicated with the bottle cover (1); the gas inlet one-way valve (8) is mounted at one side of the inlet hole (1.8); a piston rod upper end (3.1) is fixed to an upper wall connection part (2.3) of the elastic bag (2); the lower end of the piston rod (3) is provided with the piston (4); and a cylinder (1.2) is arranged in the middle of the bottle cover (1). The elastic bag foam pump has the advantages of simple structure, low cost and easy to use.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: King Tsang Chung
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Patent number: 9795257Abstract: A wall-mountable hands-free back washer that allows users to wash and exfoliate their backs without using their hands. The back washer is mounted on a shower wall or bathtub wall by a support panel that attaches to a shower or bathtub wall. The support panel may be permanently for removably attached to the wall. Sponges are attached to the support panel. The sponges can be loofah sponges or any other suitable type of sponge or exfoliating device. The sponges are mounted on the support panel such that a user only has to lean back against the back washer and move up-and-down or side-to-side to clean the user's back.Type: GrantFiled: June 2, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: Minnie D. June
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Patent number: 9795258Abstract: Apparatus for dispensing paper toweling from a roll of paper toweling including roll support structure, a rotatable support drum to transport the paper toweling and cause rotation of the roll of paper toweling, and a rotary damper resisting formation of overspin slack in the paper toweling resulting from a pulling force applied to the paper toweling.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Dispensing Dynamics International, LLCInventors: Joel P. Keily, Orlando Pedro Ochoa, Sr.
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Patent number: 9795259Abstract: An apparatus for raising and lowering a toilet seat that can easily be installed, for example by hand without tools, on a toilet, for example one that only has a seat and not a lid as commonly found in public venues. The apparatus includes a pedal base, a pedal, a seat bracket, and a lifter lever. The pedal is pivotally connected to the pedal base and coupled to the seat bracket so that movement of the pedal induces movement of the seat bracket and the lifter lever. The lifter lever is positioned under a toilet seat so that as the lifter lever is moved, the toilet seat is raised, and as the seat bracket rotates back down by reverse action on the pedal, the toilet seat is lowered.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: Michael Helfrich
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Patent number: 9795260Abstract: The object of the present invention is an axillary support device (1) for a handicapped user of a common shower stall provided with at least one flat wall, substantially constituted by a pair of transverse arms (2, 3) fixed to the flat wall of the shower stall by means of a pair of vertical supports (4, 5) firmly anchored to said wall. Said transverse arms (2, 3) are arranged in a manner so as to be substantially perpendicular, in the longitudinal direction thereof, to the wall to which they are fixed; such arms (2, 3) are shaped in a manner so as to have one end (6, 7) bent upward, one end constrained (8, 9) to the vertical supports (4, 5) and they are provided with a covering made of soft and impermeable material. The vertical position and the horizontal position of said transverse arms (2, 3) can be adjusted, the latter being translatable along said vertical supports (4, 5) and lockable in pre-established positions.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Paultech S.R.L.Inventor: Paolo Castellini
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Patent number: 9795261Abstract: A vacuum cleaner for cleaning a surface is convertible between an upright mode and a canister mode. The vacuum cleaner includes a diverter assembly to selectively divert a working air flow through different working air flow paths which correspond to the upright mode and the canister mode.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: BISSELL Homecare, Inc.Inventor: Alan J. Krebs
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Patent number: 9795262Abstract: A tool caddy selectively connectable to a surface cleaner, the tool caddy including a base having a first accessory attachment feature, and a stem extending substantially perpendicular from the base and disposed substantially central to the base, the stem having a second accessory attachment feature. A combination surface cleaner and a removable tool caddy including a surface cleaner having a handle, a cord, an upper cord hook, and a lower cord hook, and a removable tool caddy having a base and a stem extending substantially perpendicular from the base and disposed substantially central to the base, the stem including a first opening and a flange for receiving the upper cord hook and a second opening for receiving the lower cord hook.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: ZENITH TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventor: Mark D. Bosses
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Patent number: 9795263Abstract: A collection and sifting device provides a flexibly resilient truncated funnel shaped body having a top circumferential edge extending around an open top portion, and a spaced apart bottom circumferential edge extending about a diametrically smaller closed bottom portion with a sidewall extending between the top circumferential edge and the bottom circumferential edge. A plurality of spacedly arrayed through holes are defined in the bottom portion and in the sidewall proximate the bottom portion. Each spacedly arrayed through hole has a diameter smaller than a diameter of a U.S. dime. A bottom cap is releasably securable to the body to optionally obstruct the plurality of through holes.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: Todd Perkins
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Patent number: 9795264Abstract: A surface cleaning head has a cyclone assembly with a cyclone assembly air inlet port and a cyclone assembly air outlet port, a first air flow path extending from a dirty air inlet to the cyclone assembly air inlet port, and a second air flow path extending from the cyclone assembly air outlet port to a suction motor air inlet. The cyclone assembly moveable from a cleaning position in which the cyclone assembly air inlet port is in communication with an outlet port of the first air flow path and cyclone assembly air outlet port is in communication with an inlet port of the second air flow path to a removal position in which the cyclone assembly air inlet port is spaced from the outlet port of the first air flow path and cyclone assembly air outlet port is spaced from the inlet port of the second air flow path.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Omachron Intellectual Property Inc.Inventors: Jason B. Thorne, Wayne Ernest Conrad, Barry Xu, Roger Chen, Peter Hutchinson, Robert Xu, Dave Petersen
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Patent number: 9795265Abstract: A robot cleaner enables a wet cleaning, has a replaceable cleaning unit, and ensures a sufficient friction force for doing a wet cleaning of a floor. The robot cleaner includes a frame including a wheel for driving, a replaceable cleaning unit formed at a lower part of the frame to clean a bottom surface and disposed in front of the wheel, a tank disposed at an upper part of the wheel and configured to supply fluid to the cleaning unit, a pump configured to pump the fluid contained in the tank such that the fluid contained in the tank is supplied to the cleaning unit, a hose configured to extend to the pump and the upper part of the cleaning unit and through which the fluid pumped by the pump flows, and a bumper formed on a side of the frame.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2013Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Du Hwan Hyun, Hwi Chan Jang, Dong Won Kim, Byoung In Lee, Sahng Jin Lee, Won Min Lee, Hyun Soo Jung, Seung Il Han
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Patent number: 9795266Abstract: Disclosed is a scourer (10) which can be used along with a shape-supporting body. The scourer (10) includes a mesh body (2) having a sparse and/or dense mesh and being bendable or foldable, and the shape-supporting body (13) which is formed in a flat plate shape from synthetic resin or rubber and attached to a portion of a surface of the mesh body when used. The shape-supporting body (13) has a toothed portion (13b) made up of a plurality of tooth-like members (13bb) arranged along at least one edge portion (13a) of the shape-supporting body (13). The scourer (10) according to the present invention is convenient for removal of dirt stuck in deep, narrow recessed portions or the inside corners of a container.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 2011Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventors: Chi Ho Song, Chi Hwa Song, Chang Soo Park
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Patent number: 9795267Abstract: A multi step cleaning system, for cleaning a cleaning surface using a first cleaning solution containing alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride and a second cleaning solution containing acetic acid. The first cleaning solution is impregnated in a first wipe, and the second cleaning solution is impregnated in a second wipe. The wipes are sealed and provided to the user in a double chambered packet, having a first chamber and a second chamber that are isolated from each other. In use, after the packet is opened, the first wipe is used to wipe the cleaning surface, the cleaning surface is fully dried, and the second wipe is used to wipe the cleaning surface. The cleaning surface is left with an extraordinary shine that is long lasting and repels dirt, dust, and grime.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: Catherine Gentile
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Patent number: 9795268Abstract: A handle apparatus includes a substantially elongate cylindrical section, a bulbous top section formed at the top of the elongate cylindrical section, and a flange section formed proximate the bottom of the cylindrical section. A trigger can be positioned within a recess formed in the elongate cylindrical section. The flange can extend outwardly from the elongate cylindrical section a greater distance than the trigger to prevent damage to the trigger if the handle falls to the ground. The bulbous section can have an oblate spheroid shape, and a gripping band that provides a comfortable grip to the user and helps prevent the handle from slipping when leaned against a wall. The handle can be utilized on a cleaning implement, such as a liquid dispensing mop.Type: GrantFiled: January 12, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Cedar Creek Cleaning Products, LLCInventor: Mark Allen Hoyle
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Patent number: 9795269Abstract: A dishwasher (100) for pot washing, comprising a detector (160) for automatically detecting what type of washing basket (140) has been placed in the dishwasher (100). This enables automatic selection of water pressure and granule control, such that more sensitive crockery and plates are not damaged. The detector can be an inductive sensor (160) that detects an indicating member (141) of the washing basket. The washing basket can comprise one or several indicating members, for enabling a more reliable detection. A method of operating such a dishwasher (100) comprises the steps of automatically detecting what type of washing basket (140) is placed in the dishwasher, and then controlling the water pressure and granule addition according to what washing basket was detected. A system comprises an above dishwasher and an above washing basket.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: GRANULDISK ABInventors: Per Walter, Hans Bramevik
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Patent number: 9795270Abstract: A system for protecting a dishwasher from freezing using components within a dishwasher. The system comprising: a control circuit, a heating element, a water pump, drain hose, hot water supply, water valve, door sensor to determine whether dishwasher door is closed and a temperature sensor.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: Tom Casale
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Patent number: 9795271Abstract: A passive diverter is provided that does not require a dedicated motor to switch between multiple outlet ports. The diverter uses the forces provided by a flow of fluid from a pump to switch between different outlet ports and supply one or more spray assemblies or other fluid-using elements. A separate motor to power the diverter is not required, which allows a savings in costs and space. In addition, a secondary set of ramps may provide a manner in which to “zero” the angular position of the diverter, i.e., place the diverter in a known, home position. This can reduce the additional cost, weight, and complexity of including additional sensors to determine the angular position of the diverter.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Haier US Appliance Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Kyle Edward Durham, Craig Curtis, Christopher Brandon Ross
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Patent number: 9795272Abstract: Filter assemblies for filtering wash fluid to be circulated by a circulation pump in a dishwasher appliance are provided. A filter assembly includes a first filter member, a second filter member, a first discharge blade, and a second discharge blade. The filter assembly further includes a shaft extending through the first filter member, the second filter member, a first central bore hole of the first discharge blade, and a second central bore hole of the second discharge blade. The shaft includes a body which has an outer surface, the outer surface including a first threaded portion, a second threaded portion, a first unthreaded portion, and a second unthreaded portion. The plurality of first inner threads mesh with the first threaded portion and the plurality of second inner threads mesh with the second threaded portion.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: HAIER US APPLIANCE SOLUTIONS, INC.Inventor: Joel Charles Boyer
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Patent number: 9795273Abstract: A dishwasher is provided that may include a tub; first and second racks disposed in the tub to accommodate objects to be washed; a lower arm having a lower arm chamber that allows wash water to flow thereinto, an arm channel that communicates with the lower arm chamber through an arm channel communication hole to spray the wash water onto the second rack, a detachable chamber separated from the lower arm chamber by a chamber partition wall, and a chamber communication hole provided in the chamber partition wall to allow the lower arm chamber to communicate with the detachable part chamber; a tower nozzle provided to the second rack to spray the wash water onto the first rack; and a tower connection part withdrawable from the detachable chamber according to water pressure in the detachable chamber and adapted to supply the wash water to the tower nozzle when withdrawn from the detachable chamber.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: LG ELECTRONICS INC.Inventor: Joonho Pyo
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Patent number: 9795274Abstract: A method of dispensing detergent in a dishwasher having a wash tub that includes a fluid reservoir to hold a treating chemistry, a lid operatively mounted to the fluid reservoir, and is configured to move between an open position and a closed position, and a hydraulic actuator is fluidly coupled to a fluid source and configured to initiate movement of the lid between its closed and open positions in response to fluid pressure applied to the actuator by the fluid source.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Whirlpool CorporationInventors: Paul E. Beshears, Jr., Elliott V. Stowe
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Patent number: 9795275Abstract: Disclosed herein is a dishwasher having a structure capable of reducing energy consumption, and improving drying performance. The dishwasher includes a body, a washing tub provided inside the body and a drying unit in which a dehumidifying member is rotatably accommodated, wherein the dehumidifying member may include a dehumidifying area and a regenerating area separated from the dehumidifying area to perform dehumidifying and regenerating concurrently.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Jung Yoon Hahm, Ki Sup Lee, In Chul Yun
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Patent number: 9795276Abstract: The inconvenience associated with using a lower basket of a dish washing machine is reduced or eliminated by a dish washing machine which includes a washing tub with an open front, a basket configured to be inserted in or drawn out from the washing tub through the open front of the washing tub, a door which opens or closes the open front of the washing tub, at least one guide rail for mounting the basket on the door when the basket is drawn out from the washing tub while the door is open, and a lifting device which guides the guide rail to move between a raised position and a lowered position of the guide rail.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Dah We Park, Joo Hee Ryu, Jong Su Jeon
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Patent number: 9795277Abstract: A monitor apparatus includes: a display panel that displays a medical image; an as-viewed output terminal capable of outputting a video signal reflecting a same color set value as a color set value reflected in the medical image displayed on the display panel; a communication unit that detects device information regarding an external device connected to the as-viewed output terminal; and a second color setting reflection unit capable of controlling to further change the color set value reflected in the video signal outputted from the as-viewed output terminal based on a detection result of the communication unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 29, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventors: Masaya Fujita, Masahiro Kudo, Masashi Umemura, Hiroshi Yanagisawa, Hiroshi Higuchi
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Patent number: 9795278Abstract: A housing watertight mechanism includes, a case member, a lid member configured to be fixed to the case member, an annular elastic member interposed between a first edge portion and a second edge portion, and compressed in an attaching and detaching direction to fill a space between the first edge portion and the second edge portion when the lid member is fixed to the case member, a first portion formed in the elastic member, and a second portion formed in the elastic member, disposed on a side on which the space between the first edge portion and the second edge portion is broadened when the elastic member is compressed in the attaching and detaching direction, and having a larger size in the attaching and detaching direction than a size of the first portion in the attaching and detaching direction.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventor: Takeshi Okada
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Patent number: 9795279Abstract: An endoscope coupler with a split focus ring having direct engagement between the focus ring and the lens cell. The endoscope coupler may also have a changeable lens cartridge which can be replaced when moisture penetrates and ruins a the previous lens cartridge. Additional features may include branding security key which prevents use of replacement parts from third parties.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Access Optics, LLCInventors: Robert H. Hogrefe, Thomas Mayer, John Hannam
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Patent number: 9795280Abstract: An endoscope system includes an endoscope and a cleaning adapter or connector. The endoscope has a port device or end sleeve, to which the cleaning adapter is coupled. The cleaning adapter includes a connector housing and a coupling sleeve, which has a male tapered portion. The connector housing includes a female thread (fastening device) and a guide surface. The port device includes a flange and a male thread. The guide surface guides the port device by contacting the flange. Thus, a male tapered surface or tapered sealing surface is axially aligned with a female tapered surface or tapered bore surface. The male tapered surface tightly contacts the female tapered surface by threaded engagement between the male and female threads. Accordingly, air-tightness or liquid-tightness can be ensured even in use of a plurality of connectors couplable selectively for connecting a related apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: FUJIFILM CorporationInventor: Yoshihiro Ueda
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Patent number: 9795281Abstract: An endoscope realized as either a borescope or a fiberscope including one or more fluid filled lenses is described. In an embodiment, the optical power of the fluid filled lenses may be adjusted to adjust the focal length associated with the endoscope. Thus, variable working distances are allowable while maintaining focus on an object in front of the endoscope. The endoscope may include a distance sensor, which is used to determine a distance between the endoscope and a sample. A processor may compare the measured distance to the current optical power of the one or more sealed fluid filled lenses. The processor may transmit signals to one or more actuators coupled to one or more sealed fluid filed lenses to change the optical power of the one or more sealed fluid filled lenses based on the comparison.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2011Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Adlens Beacon, Inc.Inventors: Amitava Gupta, Urban Schnell, William Egan, Lisa Nibauer, Frank Stangota, Julien Sauvet, Michel Saint-Ghislain
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Patent number: 9795282Abstract: Systems and methods for maneuvering an endoscope are disclosed. The system includes: at least one first pivoting support that is pivotally attached to the endoscope and that permits the endoscope to pivot around at least one first axis of rotation; at least one second pivoting support that is in communication with the at least one first pivoting support and that is adapted to rotate around at least one axis that is substantially orthogonal to said first axis so as to permit the endoscope to rotate around an insertion point into a body in at least two orthogonal axes; and at least one controller attached to either the first or the second pivoting. The controller is adapted to provide a constant dynamic equilibrium between said endoscope and at least one of the pivoting supports.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: M.S.T. MEDICAL SURGERY TECHNOLOGIES LTDInventors: Mordehai Sholev, Gal Atarot, Shlomi Karvat
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Patent number: 9795283Abstract: An endoscopic treatment device includes an insertion unit, a manipulation unit provided at a proximal end portion of the insertion unit, and a manipulation unit attachment mechanism attaching the manipulation unit to an insertion port of a channel of an endoscope. The manipulation unit attachment mechanism has: a connection slider engaged with the insertion port by sliding in a first direction intersecting an axis of the insertion unit and disengaged from the insertion port by sliding in a second direction intersecting the axis; an insertion-port abutment part moving toward a proximal end by contacting with the insertion port; and a slider abutment part preventing sliding of the connection slider in the first direction when the insertion-port abutment part is located at a distal end side and permitting the sliding of the connection slider in the first direction when the insertion-port abutment part is located at a proximal end side.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: OLYMPUS CORPORATIONInventor: Hirofumi Eto
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Patent number: 9795284Abstract: A camera system having a camera head with at least one button; a camera control unit coupleable to the camera head, the camera unit having a network port for receiving requests or information from a remote user; a monitor coupleable to the camera control unit for displaying images from the camera head and information from the camera control unit; the at least one camera head button being configurable by the camera control unit to have a first function and reconfigurable by the camera control unit to have a second function upon receipt of a request or information from a remote user.Type: GrantFiled: July 27, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: ARTHREX, INC.Inventors: Bruce Laurence Kennedy, Craig Speier
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Patent number: 9795285Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include an apparatus including at least one illumination source configured to emit illumination energy and an illumination control system to receive the illumination energy. The illumination control system is configured to control the illumination energy to output a sequence of different illumination wavelengths using the illumination energy. The apparatus also includes a plurality of optical fibers connected to the illumination control system and configured to sequentially output the different illumination wavelengths. Each optical fiber is configured to transmit a different illumination wavelength of the sequence to output the sequence of different illumination wavelengths from the optical fibers toward an object.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 2012Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Boston Scientific Scimed, Inc.Inventor: David W. Robertson
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Patent number: 9795286Abstract: A laparoscope/endoscope warmer includes a rechargeable heater with an inexpensive, disposable casing so that the expensive portions of the system can be reused. An elongated heater has an outer wall, a closed end and an open end into a cavity having an inner wall. A heating element such as a heating coil is disposed between the inner and outer walls of the heater. A rechargeable battery within the heater powers the heating element. The heater fits into a charging base operative to recharge the rechargeable battery through cooperating electrical contacts or an inductive coupling. The sterile casing includes an inner sleeve that fits into the cavity of the heater unit, providing a receptacle to receive and warm the rod of an endoscope or laparoscope.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: John Temple
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Patent number: 9795287Abstract: A system for simultaneously heating multiple elongated surgical viewing instruments comprises a heater with a slot and an insert received by the slot. The insert has multiple elongate cavities, each configured to receive the tip of a viewing instrument. A cover, configured to cover the heater with the insert in the slot thereof, provides a plurality of openings aligned with the cavities of the insert. In the preferred embodiment, the heater is reusable and the insert and cover are disposable. The insert and cover may be integrally joined into a single unit. The system may further include a stand upon which the heater is supported, one or more cavities to receive cleaning swabs to be heated, and/or a pad to heat a cleaning wipe or other article.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventor: John Temple
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Patent number: 9795288Abstract: The present invention provides a healing abutment for attachment to a dental implant with marking locations thereon. The marking locations either lack or have markers that provide a binary code system for retrieving unique information about the healing abutment and the underlying implant.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Biomet 3I, LLCInventors: John T. Amber, Stephan S. Porter, Theodore M. Powell
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Patent number: 9795289Abstract: A light for use with an oral anesthesia syringe that is received into a passageway of a barrel of the light. When the syringe is received into a first opening in a proximal end of the barrel's passageway, the needle of the syringe extends through a second opening at the proximal end of the barrel. At least one lamp and preferably a plurality of lamps at the distal end of the barrel illuminate the needle and the interior of a patient's mouth. A battery is included in the light for powering the lamps. The insertion of the syringe into the barrel may a pair of contacts to cause the battery to power the lamps, or the battery may be removed to remove power from the lamps. A disposable integrated syringe and light combination is also described.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Inventors: M. Wade Clayton, Jimmy E. Brown
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Patent number: 9795290Abstract: Ocular surface interferometry (OSI) devices, systems, and methods are disclosed for peak detection and/or determining stabilization of an ocular tear film. Embodiments disclosed herein also include various image capturing and processing methods and related systems for providing various information about a patient's ocular tear film (e.g., the lipid and aqueous layers) and a patient's meibomian glands that can be used to analyze tear film layer thickness(es) (TFLT), and related characteristics as it relates to dry eye.Type: GrantFiled: November 17, 2014Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: TearScience, Inc.Inventors: Stephen M. Grenon, Scott Liddle, Donald R. Korb
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Patent number: 9795291Abstract: An optical coherence tomography device includes: an OCT optical system configured to obtain a OCT signal; a front observation optical system configured to obtain a front image of the test substance; and a controller is configured to: control the OCT optical system to obtain first temporally different OCT signals with respect to the test substance; control the front observation optical system to obtain a first front image of the test substance at the time the first OCT signals are obtained; control the front observation optical system to obtain a second front image of the test substance after that; determine whether or not the plurality of first OCT signals are good based on a positional deviation between the first and second front images; and obtain motion contrast data of the test substance when it is determined that the plurality of first OCT signals are good.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: NIDEK CO., LTD.Inventors: Norimasa Satake, Yukihiro Higuchi, Naoki Takeno
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Patent number: 9795292Abstract: A method for capturing a tomographic image of an eye includes: obtaining a plurality of tomographic images of an examinee's eye by an optical scanning; obtaining a displacement distribution that is a distribution of a displacement for each A-scan among the plurality of tomographic images; and correcting a displacement among the tomographic images based on the displacement distribution.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2013Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: NIDEK CO., LTD.Inventor: Yuji Murase
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Patent number: 9795293Abstract: A device adapter is used to mount a handheld device, such as a smartphone, to the binocular tube of a microscope, such as a slit lamp. The handheld device has a camera, a device surface on one side, and a camera lens at the one side. The adapter includes a body with an abutment surface, two side grippers and a lower gripper used to secure the device against the abutment surface of the body. The device adapter also includes an adapter assembly including a camera lens opening alignable with a handheld device camera lens so that an image entering the outer end of the ocular tube with integrated optics passes through the ocular tube, through the integrated optic, and through the camera lens opening for passage into the camera lens.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2015Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Transamerican Technologies InternationalInventor: Allen R. Howes
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Patent number: 9795294Abstract: A method, a, controller, a non-transitory computer readable storage medium encoded with instructions; each of which control an apparatus to produce multiple images of an area of an eye in parallel. Selecting one of the images for estimating a change in position of the area to be used for tracking the area of the eye being imaged.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2016Date of Patent: October 24, 2017Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Koji Nozato