Patents Issued in July 10, 2018
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Patent number: 10017251Abstract: Systems for restraining palleted cargo within an aircraft are provided. A first system operates to provide vertical and outboard lateral support to cargo at a location where the opposite ends of the system are connected to surfaces that are aligned at different orientations, for example, one end connected to a horizontal floor and the second end connected to a sidewall of the fuselage of the aircraft. A second system operates to provide aft, vertical, and outboard lateral support to cargo upon a pallet proximate to its corner, and at a location where a portion of cargo extends above a stay out zone of the aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ancra International, LLCInventors: John F. Rowles, Edward H. Moradians, Victor Bassly
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Patent number: 10017252Abstract: A modular monument comprises a first transport module with a tongue and a second transport module with a groove. The transport modules are arranged one on top of the other and aligned flush with each other on a lateral surface of the monument with the monument in an assembled state. The tongue and grooves engage into each other in the assembled state of the monument in such a way that the transport modules can be shifted relative to each other in a longitudinal direction. The first transport module exhibits a locking element to prevent a relative motion of the two transport modules in the longitudinal direction in the assembled state. The embodiment further relates to an aircraft with a modular monument, as well as to a method for transporting an item in a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: AIRBUS OPERATIONS GMBHInventors: Magdalena Jobst, Stephan Sontag
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Patent number: 10017253Abstract: A cabin pressure assessment system for an aircraft includes a plurality of polling devices within an internal cabin of the aircraft. The plurality of polling devices are associated with passenger seats onboard the aircraft. A cabin pressure assessment control unit is communicatively coupled to the plurality of polling devices. The cabin pressure assessment control unit is configured to receive cabin pressure comfort data from the plurality of polling devices.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Michal Zajac, Anne Jacqueline Gertruda Theodora Scholtes, Maxim Constantijn Vos
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Patent number: 10017254Abstract: A four-way distribution valve is provided that allows for efficient filling and drainage of a potable water supply and waste system including a potable water distribution manifold and water filter in a commercial aircraft galley. The water distribution valve includes a cruciform manifold having a filter drain port connected to the water filter, two supply manifold ports connected to the potable water distribution manifold, and a drainage discharge port. A rotary closure element within the cruciform manifold actuates in accordance with four selectable filling and discharge modes for the valve to fill and drain potable water in the potable water supply and waste system. As a result, the valve can be used to fill the potable water supply system with potable water before a flight, and to selectively drain potable water from the potable water distribution manifold, the water filter, or both after a flight, all through the same valve.Type: GrantFiled: August 29, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.Inventors: Peter John Leslie Burd, Nicholas James Wilton Pearce
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Patent number: 10017255Abstract: The invention provides a means by which AC or USB power/data outlets can be installed onto aircraft passenger seats by an underhung mounting bracket that can be quickly installed with flexible cable ties or adjustable straps to the beams of a passenger aircraft seat, and provides sufficient adjustment in length to accommodate a variety of aircraft seat structures.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: INFLIGHT INVESTEMENTS INC.Inventor: George R. Smallhorn
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Patent number: 10017256Abstract: An armrest assembly for a seat including a static frame member, an armrest pivotally attached at one end to the static frame member, and an armrest pivot guard pivotally attached at one end to the armrest or the static frame member. The armrest pivot guard moves with armrest motion to conceal and/or maintain coverage of a pinch point near an attachment point of the armrest to the static frame member.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: B/E Aerospace, Inc.Inventors: Zackery Rees Byers, James R. Penley
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Patent number: 10017257Abstract: An environmental control system (ECS) includes an air conditioning pack that receives outside air; a regenerative treatment subsystem, wherein the treatment subsystem includes a treatment bed configured to cycle between an adsorption phase and a desorption phase; and a fan that receives recirculated air from the environment and moves the recirculated air to a mixing manifold.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC.Inventors: Jan Ludvik, Peter M Michalakos
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Patent number: 10017258Abstract: A compressor mount bracket has a mount floor extending to be perpendicular to a square side extending away from the mount floor in a first direction. A closure side extends from the mount floor in the first direction. An outer surface faces away from the square side. An angled side extends at a non-parallel angle from the square side and back over the mount floor. A mount location extends from the angled side, and further over the mount floor. The closure side extends along the angled side and the mount location. The mount location has a first thickness, and the angled side has a second thickness. A ratio of the first thickness to the second thickness is between 1.38 and 1.63. A cabin air supply system and a method of servicing a cabin air supply system are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventors: Brent J. Merritt, Calvin R. Parent, Alpesh Patel
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Patent number: 10017259Abstract: A de-icing and anti-icing splitter for an axial turbine engine low-pressure compressor has an external annular wall delimiting the secondary or bypass flow, and an internal annular wall; notably an external stator shroud; delimiting the primary or main stream. The upstream edge of the internal wall is fixed to the upstream annular hook of the external wall. The splitter has a series of notches which pass radially through the internal wall to allow de-icing fluid to circulate through the hook. The notches may form crescents. The splitter becomes simpler while at the same time maintaining optimal efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Safran Aero Boosters SAInventors: David Bouillon, Clément Collin, Guillaume Terlinden
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Patent number: 10017260Abstract: Nacelles are provided having a tubular casing, open at its opposite axial ends, with an inner wall and an outer wall which are connected to each other at the front end along a leading edge and at the rear end along a trailing edge and which enclose, together with the leading edge and the trailing edge, a cavity. To prevent the formation of ice at least in the zone of the leading edge of the nacelle, a separating member made of porous material is arranged inside the cavity to divide the cavity into an inner cavity, between the inner wall and the porous separating member, and an outer cavity, between the outer wall and the porous separating member, and to put the inner cavity in fluid communication with the outer cavity only in a front zone of the cavity in contact with the leading edge, and a two-phase fluid is contained in the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: May 24, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: FINMECCANICA—SOCIETA' PER AZIONIInventors: Antonio Moscatelli, Gianni Mancuso
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Patent number: 10017261Abstract: An electronic circuit allows at least one current to flow between at least two points of the same circuit. The electronic circuit is in contact with a structure (P) and includes at least one graph (2) including a plurality of nodes (24) and a plurality of connections or branches (22) between the nodes (24) that create at least one mesh (M) of interconnections. The at least one mesh (M) includes interconnections that are configured at least two interconnections between two nodes (24) created by the plurality of connections or branches (22).Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 2013Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: ALENIA AERMACCHI SPAInventor: Marco Francesco Vercellesi
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Patent number: 10017262Abstract: A deicing system for an aircraft may supply heat to an aircraft component in pulses. A first series of pulses may melt ice built up on the aircraft component. A second series of pulses may prevent ice from forming on the aircraft component. The length of each of the pulses in the first series of pulses may be longer than the length of each of the pulses in the second series of pulses. The pulses may be supplied by a pneumatic deicing system or an electrical deicing system.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: ROHR, INC.Inventors: Galdemir Cezar Botura, Dimitrios Papaioannou
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Patent number: 10017263Abstract: An impact mitigation system for an aircraft and method of deploying the impact mitigation system is disclosed. A state parameter of the aircraft is obtained. The state parameter is used with an aircraft performance model to determine an acceleration capability of the aircraft. A trajectory of the aircraft is predicted using the state parameter of the aircraft and the acceleration capability of the aircraft. A location of an object with respect to the aircraft is determined and the impact mitigation system is deployed when the predicted trajectory indicates a contact with the object at a predicted contact velocity higher than a threshold velocity at a future time.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATIONInventors: Anthony Litwinowicz, Kwok Cheng
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Patent number: 10017264Abstract: The aircraft (10) includes: at least one electric motor (135); at least one stand-alone electrical power supply (110, 120) supplying power to the electric motor; propulsion elements (130) referred to as “auxiliary propulsion elements”, included in the group including: a stand-alone electrical power supply (130) supplying power to the electric motor, a power supply converting thermal energy into electrical energy and supplying power to the electric motor, and an internal combustion engine; and a structure (100) configured to integrate each electric motor, each stand-alone electrical power supply and the auxiliary propulsion elements, the parameters of the structure being substantially identical regardless of the auxiliary propulsion elements. A method of fitting out such an aircraft is also described.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: AIRBUS GROUP SASInventors: Emmanuel Joubert, Benoit Ferran, Antonin Sanitas, Germain Morin
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Patent number: 10017265Abstract: An aerial vehicle may receive electrical power from power modules that may be installed into or removed from the aerial vehicle during flight operations. Such power modules may be inserted into a chamber from below the aerial vehicle and may come into contact with one or more terminals or leads for powering propulsion motors or other electrical loads. Such power modules may also be removed from above the aerial vehicle, thereby uncoupling the power modules from the electrical loads. Power modules may be installed into or removed from a chamber using tension members that are guided into the chamber from lateral slots extending between a perimeter of the aerial vehicle and the chamber. The tension members may be used to not only engage and remove a power module within the chamber but also to install a power module into the chamber.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Amazon Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Glen C. Larsen
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Patent number: 10017266Abstract: An aerial vehicle includes a hybrid power generation system comprising an engine; a generator mechanically coupled to the engine; and a propulsion system comprising an electric motor electrically coupled to the generator and a rotational mechanism coupled to the electric motor.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Top Flight Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Long N. Phan, Luan H. Duong, Samir Nayfeh, Matthew Sweetland
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Patent number: 10017267Abstract: An engine assembly for an aircraft rigid structure comprising a mounting pylon comprising a central box and a box extension connected to a reducing gear case of the turboreactor. The box extension includes two parts bearing the front engine attachments, these pieces each comprising a structure forming a reinforcing rib of the central box, as well as two parts of horseshoe shape surrounding the reducing gear case.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Airbus Operations SASInventors: Olivier Pautis, Jean Michel Rogero
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Patent number: 10017268Abstract: A method of monitoring a first freewheel interposed between a first drive shaft of a first engine and a rotor. The state of operation of said first freewheel is correct if the first inlet speed of rotation of the first drive shaft lies in a second range of values corresponding to the current stage of operation while the outlet speed of rotation of the rotor lies in a first range of values corresponding to the current stage of operation.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: AIRBUS HELICOPTERSInventor: Julien Fraenzel
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Patent number: 10017269Abstract: An aircraft jet propulsion system is disclosed. The aircraft jet propulsion system may comprise a thermoelectric generator array (“TEG” array) coupled to a portion of the aircraft jet propulsion system, wherein the TEG array converts heat energy to electrical energy, and supplies power to the aircraft jet propulsion system, wherein the electrical energy is supplied to a power supply. The aircraft jet propulsion system may comprise an alternator that generates less energy than is required to power the aircraft jet propulsion system. The TEG array may supplement the energy generated by the alternator. The energy generated by the TEG array and the energy generated by the alternator may be sufficient to power the aircraft jet propulsion system and/or the electrical energy generated by the TEG array may be sufficient to power to aircraft jet propulsion system.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventor: John Akin
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Patent number: 10017270Abstract: A propulsion system for an aircraft is provided having an aft engine configured to be mounted to the aircraft at an aft end of the aircraft. The aft engine includes a fan rotatable about a central axis of the aft engine having a plurality of fan blades attached to a fan shaft. The aft engine also includes a nacelle encircling the plurality of fan blades and a structural support system for mounting the aft engine to the aircraft. The structural support system extends from the fuselage of the aircraft, through the fan shaft, and to the nacelle when the aft engine is mounted to the aircraft. The aft engine may increase a net thrust of the aircraft when mounted to the aircraft.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Thomas Lee Becker, Kurt David Murrow, Patrick Michael Marrinan, Brandon Wayne Miller
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Patent number: 10017271Abstract: Embodiments of methods and apparatus for close formation flight are provided herein. In some embodiments, a method of sensing three dimensional (3D) airflow by an aircraft includes: collecting measurements characterizing airflow near the aircraft; analyzing the collected measurements; creating, by a processor, a computer model predicting one or more 3D airflow patterns parameter values based on the analyzing; obtaining one or more additional measurements characterizing airflow near an aircraft of the plurality of aircraft, and evaluating an error between an airflow parameter value predicted by the computer model and the one or more additional measurement.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: SUNLIGHT PHOTONICS INC.Inventors: Sergey V. Frolov, Michael Cyrus, Allan J. Bruce, John P. Moussouris
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Patent number: 10017272Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for gathering data along points of travel using common portable electronic devices that are typically used for other functions. More specifically, the data gathered by these portable electronic devices may be accessed, processed, validated, and used in conjunction with, or alone, to produce, augment, and/or validate other data sets across wide ranges of science and technology.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventors: James Olivo, Lan Hei Lin, Vinh Hoang
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Patent number: 10017273Abstract: A flap skew detection system is configured to detect flap skew of one or more flaps moveably secured to one or more wings of an aircraft. The flap skew detection system includes a flap support assembly that couples a flap to a wing. The flap support assembly includes a fixed portion that is configured to secure to the wing, a moveable portion that is moveably coupled to the fixed portion and configured to securely support the flap, and a link moveably coupled to the fixed portion and the moveable portion. The link includes a cylinder defining an internal chamber including a hydraulic fluid chamber, a piston having a piston head within the internal chamber, and hydraulic fluid retained within the hydraulic fluid chamber. A pressure detector is fluidly coupled to the hydraulic fluid chamber. The pressure detector is configured to detect a fluid pressure of the hydraulic fluid pressure within the hydraulic fluid chamber.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventor: Kelly Thomas Jones
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Patent number: 10017274Abstract: An exterior helicopter light unit (2) with a dynamic output light intensity distribution includes a plurality of LEDs (30), and an optical system (32) for shaping the output light intensity distribution from light emitted by the plurality of LEDs (30), wherein each of the plurality of LEDs (30) contributes to the output light intensity distribution in an LED-specific output direction region, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of LEDs (30) are individually dimmable, with a level of dimming for each of said portion of the plurality of LEDs (30) in operation being set depending on a distance of the exterior helicopter light unit (2) to ground (200) in the respective LED-specific output direction region.Type: GrantFiled: July 14, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: GOODRICH LIGHTING SYSTEMS GMBHInventors: Christian Schoen, Andre Hessling-von Heimendahl, Anil Kumar Jha, Christo Tsibadze
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Patent number: 10017275Abstract: A compressor cross bracket for use in an air supply system for an aircraft comprises a ledge extending away from a main body. The main body has ends at opposed sides and a ditch defined between the ends. Each of the ends have at least one bolt hole which has a diameter. A thickness of the ledge is defined in a direction from which the main body extends from the ledge, with a ratio of the thickness to the diameter being between 0.636 and 0.680. A cabin air supply system and a method of servicing a cabin air supply system are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventors: Brent J. Merritt, Calvin R. Parent, Alpesh Patel
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Patent number: 10017276Abstract: System and methods for servicing and monitoring shock struts are provided. A shock strut servicing assistance system may comprise: a controller in electronic communication with a display; and a tangible, non-transitory memory configured to communicate with the controller, the tangible, non-transitory memory having instructions stored thereon that, in response to execution by the controller, cause the controller to perform operations comprising: calculating, by the controller, a dead volume of a shock strut and determining, by the controller, a first decision, the first decision being whether or not the dead volume of the shock strut is negative. A shock strut servicing assistance system may be for servicing a shock strut having a negative dead volume.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: GOODRICH CORPORATIONInventors: Amir Fazeli, Adnan Cepic
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Patent number: 10017277Abstract: A method and apparatus for supporting a structure. The apparatus may comprise a support, a load-balancing structure associated with the support, and a set of connection devices associated with the load-balancing structure. The set of connection devices may be configured to connect to the structure to form a set of control points. Each of the set of connection devices may be configured to independently control a location of a corresponding control point in the set of control points.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Matthew Ray DesJardien, Eric M. Reid, Steven A. Best, Jaeeun Shin
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Patent number: 10017278Abstract: A gyroscopic orbiter with vertical takeoff and vertical landing capabilities can transition between different functional modes while in-flight. The orbiter typically includes a fuselage, a front boom, a front propulsion unit, a rear boom, and a rear propulsion unit. The front boom is mounted at two pivot points to a bow of the fuselage by the front boom. The rear boom is mounted at two pivot points to a stern of the fuselage by the rear boom. One functional mode is the vertical takeoff and landing mode, wherein the propulsion units are oriented parallel to each other and are directed upward. Another functional mode is the shuttle mode, wherein the propulsion units are oriented at an angle with each other, and the front propulsion unit is directed forward. Another functional mode is the high speed mode, wherein the propulsion units are oriented collinear with a roll axis of the fuselage.Type: GrantFiled: June 16, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventor: Thomas Norman Hesse
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Patent number: 10017279Abstract: Disclosed is a space vehicle, such as a satellite, the vehicle including: at least one equipment-carrying module for carrying equipment of the vehicle; at least three posts extending at least partially in the same longitudinal direction and on the periphery of the equipment-carrying module, each post being provided with at least one releasable locking device; and a reinforcing structure which rigidly connects each post transversely to at least two other posts.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: AIRBUS DEFENCE AND SPACE SASInventors: Dominique Poncet, Christophe Prud Hon, Serge Guyot
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Patent number: 10017280Abstract: A tote for collecting and transporting fragile items comprising a rectangular base, a handle fixed to the base, and a compartmentalized rectangular tray removably contained on the base, a perimeter of the base arranged to allow the tray to rest on a bottom of the base and to restrain the tray from sliding off the bottom, the handle being rigidly attached to the base and having an inverted U-shape that is sufficiently high and wide to allow several identical tray supporting items in individual compartments to be stacked on a bottom one of said trays.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventor: Robert P. Martin, Jr.
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Patent number: 10017281Abstract: There is presented a device and method for filling and advancing a series of containers including a first container and a next container. The device includes first and second assemblies having first and second restraining members respectively. The assemblies are positionable relative to each other in an object-receiving configuration in which the first restraining member and the second restraining member are inserted into the first container, and at least partially define a gap therebetween for deposition of an object. They are also positionable in a transitional configuration in which the second restraining member is raised relative to the first restraining member, and a lower portion of the second restraining member is positioned above and behind a leading internal face of the next container; and a container advancement configuration in which at least part of the second restraining member is in contact with and applying an advancement force to the leading internal face of the next container.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2010Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: MANUFACTURING SOLUTIONS PTY LTDInventor: Leon Hooper
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Patent number: 10017282Abstract: An apparatus and method of arranging boxes containing components for transport (shipping units).Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Dyco Inc.Inventors: Peter D. Yohe, Ronald H. Cordingly, Kevin K. John, Justin L. Mowery, Thomas M. Zurewich, Joshua Jay Gordon
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Patent number: 10017283Abstract: A device arranges an edge protector on a package. The device includes a drive wheel for moving the device along a guiding rail from a point of departure to the package and from the package to the point of departure. A motor is carried by the device and drives the drive wheel. A clamp mount includes a movable clamping jaw and a counter bearing for taking up the edge protector in an open position of the clamping jaw and to hold it in a closed position of the clamping jaw. The motor drives the drive wheel and acts on a power transmission assembly to induce opening and closing of the clamping jaw. A device for strapping packages having the edge protector applicator includes a frame carrying a press plate above a vertically movable packing table. The press plate has running rails on which the edge protector applicator is movably mounted. The applicator device is mounted below the press plate.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Signode Industrial Group LLCInventor: Hans Günther Kastner
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Patent number: 10017284Abstract: A packing method and packing machine for producing a slide-open package of tobacco articles with a hinged lid can include obtaining a wrapped group of tobacco articles with a first packing unit; obtaining an inner container which houses the wrapped group of tobacco articles and has the hinged lid with a second packing unit by folding an inner blank about the wrapped group of tobacco articles; and obtaining an outer container which slidably houses the inner container inside and is provided with a connecting tab, that at one end is integral with the outer container and at the other end is glued to the lid of the inner container, with a third packing unit by folding an outer blank about the inner container.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2013Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: G.D SOCIETA' PER AZIONIInventors: Luca Testoni, Stefano Sarti, Marco Garganelli, Mattia Meccagni, Michele Squarzoni
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Patent number: 10017285Abstract: An apparatus displaces and positions items in a predetermined configuration. The apparatus includes a grouping station, a grouping manipulator using at least two degrees of freedom and having a prehension end-effector and a placing manipulator using at least four degrees of freedom and having a prehension end-effector. The grouping manipulator is configured to pick items at a first item location, displace the items towards the grouping station, and release the items at the grouping station to form a group of items. The placing manipulator is configured to pick the group of items at the grouping station, change an orientation of the group of items, and release the group of items at a receiving station in the predetermined configuration. A method displaces and positions items in a predetermined configuration.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: PREMIER TECH TECHNOLOGIES LTEEInventors: Jean-Robert Boudreau, Michel Corriveau, Yannick Savard, Sebastien Soucy
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Patent number: 10017286Abstract: An apparatus for filling a device having a penetrable septum and a sealed chamber. The apparatus includes a filling member engageable with the penetrable septum to penetrate the septum, port(s), and a closure. The closure and filling member are movable between (i) a first position wherein the closure closes the port(s), and (ii) a second position opening the port(s). The filling member and/or septum is movable relative to the other between (i) a first position wherein the filling member is spaced from the septum, and (ii) a second position wherein the filling member is penetrated through the septum and in communication with the sealed chamber. A locking device is movable between (i) a locked position locking the closure and/or filling member in the first position, and (ii) an unlocked position allowing movement of the closure and/or filling member relative to the other and into the second position.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: DR. PY INSTITUTE LLCInventor: Daniel Py
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Patent number: 10017287Abstract: A sonotrode and anvil are adapted for ultrasonic welding of work pieces, to produce a narrower weld region that exhibits greater durability, permitting use of less material per package. The horn-to-anvil contact is through a plurality of energy directors arranged into a three-dimensional grid pattern to be capable of distributed vibration-transmissive contact. The energy directors include a series of plateau surfaces regularly spaced apart in a first direction, and in a second direction that is orthogonal to the first direction, to form the grid pattern. The energy directors of the horn are configured to interlock with the energy directors of the anvil. The rectangular-shaped plateaus are spaced apart by angled side-surfaces that form valleys. A stepped transition to a corresponding region of reduced height for the energy directors of the sonotrode and anvil may form a cosmetic seal region with a lesser integrity, in addition to the main barrier seal.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: RINCO ULTRASOUNDS USA, INC.Inventor: Gordon Hull
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Patent number: 10017288Abstract: The present invention relates to a filling system for filling containers, such as cans, in the beverage-processing industry, comprising at least one filling station connected to a product storage container, a transport device by means of which containers are conveyed to the filling station, and a container feeding means that feeds containers to the transport device in layers, the transport device having arranged thereon a counter capable of determining the number of containers in the transport device, characterized in that a control unit is provided, which controls the container feeding means depending on the product amount available in the product storage container and on the number of containers in the transport device. The invention also relates to a corresponding method.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Krones AGInventors: Christian Bockisch, Robert Klein
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Patent number: 10017289Abstract: A packaging box (1) includes a storage part (2), an inner flap (21) and an outer flap (22). The inner flap (21) is provided with a slit (31) along an edge (11a) and the outer flap (12) is provided with an insertion piece (41) connected to a tip edge (22a) via a bending line (42). The insertion piece (41) is inserted into the slit (31) by being bent along the bending line (42). The insertion piece (41) has an engaging piece (45) configured to be foldable along a folding line (44) extending in a direction crossing the tip edge (22a) and to have an engaging edge (45a) facing the tip edge (22a). When the engaging piece (45) is folded along the folding line (44), the engaging edge (45a) is inclined downward toward its distal end.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: KYOCERA Document Solutions Inc.Inventor: Kazuyoshi Yamamura
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Patent number: 10017290Abstract: A carton for holding at least one food product is disclosed, and includes a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around an interior of the carton, a first side flap, and a second side flap. The plurality of panels includes a bottom panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the bottom panel, a second side panel foldably connected to the bottom panel, and at least one end panel foldably connected to the bottom panel. The first side flap is foldably connected to the first side panel and includes a first tab and a second tab. The second side flap is foldably connected to the second side panel and includes a first locking feature and a second locking feature. The first tab is engaged with the first locking feature and the second tab is engaged with the second locking feature to form a reclosable lock of the carton.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Graphic Packaging International, LLCInventors: William Faulkner, Aaron Lee Bates
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Patent number: 10017291Abstract: A container comprising an outer casing and an inner casing. The inner casing is received within the outer casing and is retractable from the outer casing. The inner casing includes a locking tab which engages with a locking layer of the outer housing.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Multi Packaging Solutions, Inc.Inventors: Daniel T. Smith, Richard C. Thibault
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Patent number: 10017292Abstract: An interlocking clip, a container incorporating the interlocking clip, and methods of fabricating of the interlocking clip and container are provided. The interlocking clip is formed integral with first and second container sections for fastening the container sections together, and includes a tab-receiving aperture and a locking tab. The tab-receiving aperture is formed through a container wall of the first container section, and the locking tab is formed from, and integral with, a container wall of the second container section. The locking tab is bendable to interlock with the tab-receiving aperture, and includes bendable extensions on opposite sides of the locking tab. The bendable extensions include wall-receiving grooves to receive the container wall on opposite sides of the tab-receiving aperture in the first container section. In operation, the locking tab inserts into the tab-receiving aperture to interlock the first and second container sections together.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Ryan R. Anderson, William J. O. Green, Tate T. Harnack, Justin T. Melby
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Patent number: 10017293Abstract: A carton for holding a plurality of articles in at least a first layer and a second layer. The carton can include a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels can include at least a bottom panel, a side panel, and a top panel. The carton further can include a divider for at least partially extending between the first layer and the second layer of the plurality of articles. The divider can at least partially define a first modular section of the carton and a second modular section of the carton. The first modular section can include the top panel, an upper portion of the side panel, and the divider. The second modular section can include the bottom panel and a lower portion of the side panel. The first modular section can be at least partially separable from the second modular section.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Graphic Packaging International, LLCInventor: Raymond R. Spivey, Sr.
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Patent number: 10017294Abstract: Disclosed is a transport and packaging container for accommodating a plurality of cylindrical containers for substances, comprising at least two segments of which each can be handled separately and which can be assembled or stuck together to jointly form the transport and packaging container, wherein a first segment of the at least two segments has a bottom for supporting the plurality of containers, and positioning devices are provided for positioning the plurality of containers in the interior of the transport and packaging container in a regular arrangement in such a manner that a collision of the directly adjacent containers is prevented, and wherein at least one of the segments comprises sealing means.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: SCHOTT AGInventors: Gregor Fritz Deutschle, Edgar Pawlowski, Joern Wassenberg, Kai Wissner
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Patent number: 10017295Abstract: The present invention relates to an opening device for a beverage container. More specifically, the invention relates to a metal end closure having a primary opening area and at least one optional secondary vent opening which can be opened with the same pull tab. The primary opening area and the secondary vent opening area are defined by a score line which is interrupted by a check slot to inhibit propagation of a fracture along the score line.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Ball CorporationInventors: Howard C. Chasteen, Mark A. Jacober
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Patent number: 10017296Abstract: A pallet having a unique runner system where each runner opens into the upper deck of the pallet or opens away from the upper deck, and each runner is formed of a construction of z girts back to back resulting in a flattened “V” or “U”. Each runner may optionally include an elongated notch on its bottom surface or an opening to allow forklift tines to slide into for easy transport of the pallet. The pallet may also include cross runners of similar construction for additional strength. The pallet's construction allows the pallet to be made of plastic material, perhaps molded, providing lighter weight and longer durability than its wooden cousins.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2014Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventor: Ryan Burk
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Patent number: 10017297Abstract: A degradable bearing pallet and a preparation method thereof. The pallet has an upper cover, a packing middle layer and a lower cover; a plurality of pallet support legs are disposed at the bottom of the lower cover; the lower cover is integrally molded with the plurality of pallet support legs; and the packing middle layer is filled in the lower cover and in the plurality of pallet support legs; the upper cover covers the packing middle layer and the lower cover. The middle part of the bottom of each of the pallet support legs is formed with a sunken groove; the pallet support legs in each of the rows are mutually connected through a connecting board; and each of the connecting boards is clamped in a corresponding one of the sunken grooves.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2017Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Inventor: Ronghua Cai
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Patent number: 10017298Abstract: A set of nesting dinnerware includes a bowl, a mug and a plate. The dimensions of the mug are such that the same can fit within the bowl, either in an upright or rotated position. The base of the plate is configured to fit over the upper opening of the bowl. Once the mug is inserted in the bowl, the base of the plate is positioned over the opening of the bowl, creating a nested set of dinnerware. Multiple sets of nested dinnerware can be stacked on top of each other to further save space.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: LIFETIME BRANDS, INC.Inventor: Hugh William Biber
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Patent number: 10017299Abstract: The present invention provides, in at least one embodiment, a basket such as a grocery basket or laundry basket, where the basket includes a packaging wrap strap. When the basket is in an open position, the wrap strap is flush to the bottom side of the base of the basket such that it is out of the way. When the basket is in a closed position, the wrap strap, made from elastic, stretches to get around the base of the basket and pulls the base upwards while applying downward force on a rim of the basket to keep the basket closed very flat. The wrap strap advantageously does not interfere with the closing and opening functions, improves storage and carrying, and provides better packaging.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2015Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: Clevermade, LLCInventors: Thomas A. Quinn, Michael Carlson
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Patent number: 10017300Abstract: Flexible containers with product dispensing visibility. The containers may include: a multiple dose product volume; a structural support frame that supports the product volume in a stand-up orientation; a dispenser; and a flow channel in fluid communication with the product volume and the dispenser. The flow channel may be made from flexible materials forming a sealed leg of a gusset. Fluent product may flow from the product volume, through the flow channel, and out the dispenser when the container is externally compressed. The sealed leg of the gusset has a first side and a second side. The first side of the sealed leg of the gusset has opaque decoration that overlays substantially all of the flow channel, and the second side of the sealed leg of the gusset has one or more non-opaque portions that overlay the flow channel.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2016Date of Patent: July 10, 2018Assignee: The Procter & Gamble CompanyInventors: Kenneth Stephen McGuire, Lee Mathew Arent, Scott Kendyl Stanley, Charles John Berg, Jr.