Patents Issued in September 18, 2018
  • Patent number: 10076128
    Abstract: The invention concerns a composition for lowering the glycemic index comprising, or consisting of an alcoholic extract of cinnamon in an amount of at least 10% by weight compared to the total weight of the composition, and optionally a carrier, a food composition comprising a composition for lowering the glycemic index in an amount ranging from 0.1% to 5% by weight compared to the total weight of the food composition, the use of a composition for lowering the glycemic index or of a food composition as a glycemic index lowering agent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: NATUREX
    Inventors: Nicolas Chapal, Vickram Beejmohun
  • Patent number: 10076129
    Abstract: Systems and methods for treating large quantities of potatoes, other tubers, vegetables, produce, and/or other crops are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, a crop storage facility configured in accordance with the present technology includes a treatment system configured to distribute a treatment agent configured to inhibit spoilage of the crops. The treatment system can include a combination of two or more chemical compositions configured to release different concentrations of the treatment agent to produce a desired level of the treatment agent in the storage facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: JMC Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Joel Micka
  • Patent number: 10076130
    Abstract: The present invention has objects to provide a glucan useful as water-soluble dietary fiber, its preparation and uses. The present invention solves the above objects by providing a branched ?-glucan, which is constructed by glucose molecules and characterized by methylation analysis as follows: (1) Ratio of 2,3,6-trimethyl-1,4,5-triacetyl-glucitol to 2,3,4-trimethyl-1,5,6-triacetyl-glucitol is in the range of 1:0.6 to 1:4; (2) Total content of 2,3,6-trimethyl-1,4,5-triacetyl-glucitol and 2,3,4-trimethyl-1,5,6-triacetyl-glucitol is 60% or higher in the partially methylated glucitol acetates; (3) Content of 2,4,6-trimethyl-1,3,5-triacetyl-glucitol is 0.5% or higher but less than 10% in the partially methylated glucitol acetates; and (4) Content of 2,4-dimethyl-1,3,5,6-tetraacetyl-glucitol is 0.5% or higher in the partially methylated glucitol acetates; a novel ?-glucosyltransferase which forms the branched ?-glucan, processes for producing them, and their uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: HAYASHIBARA CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Hikaru Watanabe, Takuo Yamamoto, Tomoyuki Nishimoto, Keiji Tsusaki, Kazuyuki Oku, Hiroto Chaen, Shigeharu Fukuda
  • Patent number: 10076131
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to the field of nutrition. In particular the present invention relates to infant nutrition in the post natal period and in early life, more particular during the age period of 6-36 months or during a part thereof. One embodiment of the present invention is a kit of diet compositions for children during the age period of 6-36 months or during a part thereof, wherein the macronutrient content of the compositions is gradually changing in the form of a straight line from a composition that comprises about 40-50% energy from fat and about 40-49% energy from carbohydrates for children at the age of 6 months to a composition that comprises about 30-35% energy from fat and about 50-55% energy from carbohydrates for children at the age of 36 months, and its use to prevent obesity later in life.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Nestec S.A.
    Inventors: Yasaman Shahkhalili, Kevin Acheson, Katherine Mace, Julie Moulin, Irene Zbinden, Olivier Aprikian, Theresa Voss
  • Patent number: 10076132
    Abstract: Nutritious granular materials of fine particle sizes agglomerated within versatile micropellets are useful for inserting significant amounts of nutritious properties into snack foods. Expandable micropellet-containing formulations provide for introduction of fine particle ingredients such as proteins, minerals and other components or desirable nutrients into food processing lines not typically amenable to the fine particle sizes. Micropellet-containing formulations may consist entirely of micropellets, or may contain an expandable starch such as, for example, corn meal, sheeted doughs, and expanded collet products onto which the micropellets may be basted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Frito-Lay North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Stefan K. Baier, Ajay Rajeshwar Bhaskar, Eugenio Bortone, Pierre Faa, Chien-Seng Hwang, Jorge C. Morales-Alvarez, Deepali Palta
  • Patent number: 10076133
    Abstract: A freeze-dried, aerated fruit and/or vegetable composition that includes fruit and/or vegetable ingredient(s) and an emulsifier are disclosed, as well as methods of making thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Nestec S. A.
    Inventors: Thomas Burkholder, Scott Peterson, Frank Welch
  • Patent number: 10076134
    Abstract: Two genes, A622 and NBB1, can be influenced to achieve a decrease of nicotinic alkaloid levels in plants. In particular, suppression of one or both of A622 and NBB1 may be used to decrease nicotine in tobacco plants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: 22nd Century Limited, LLC
    Inventors: Takashi Hashimoto, Akira Kato
  • Patent number: 10076135
    Abstract: A biodegradable cigarette filter tow includes a mixture of at least two or more natural materials selected from the group consisting of hemp fiber, flax fiber, abaca fiber or pulp, sisal fiber or pulp, wood pulp, and cotton fiber or cotton flock. The mixture may also include regenerated cellulose fibers. The mixture may include a natural binder or may be hydroentangled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Greenbutts LLC
    Inventors: Tadas Lisauskas, Xavier Alexander Van Osten, Matthew Tipper, Vera Chetty, Stephen Russell
  • Patent number: 10076136
    Abstract: A wrapper (510) for a smoking article comprises a sheet material extending in a first direction (24) in which the wrapper (510) is wrapped around a smoking article and a second direction (20) perpendicular to the first direction (24). The wrapper further comprises a window (512) in the sheet material, the window (512) having a perimeter wherein the perimeter comprises a first portion (518) that defines a projection (516) of the sheet material into the window (512). The projection (516) is delimited by the first portion (518) of the perimeter and a straight line (520) forming a tangent to each end (522, 524) of the first portion (518) of the perimeter, and the distance between the straight line (520) and the point on the first portion (518) of the perimeter furthest from the straight line (520) in a direction perpendicular to the straight line (520) is less than 1 millimeter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Philip Morris Products S.A.
    Inventor: Alen Kadiric
  • Patent number: 10076137
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods and systems to vaporize extract, plant material containing organic material and the like, including utilizing a cartridge which may be disposable. The cartridge may be heated in zones or portions. The cartridge may form the inhalation pathway thereby reducing the accumulation of dirt and odor in the heating device. One disclosed vaporizer system has a base with a cartridge interface, a heater element, an on/off switch, a battery, a temperature sensor in proximity to the heater element; a controller in signal communication with the heater element, battery, temperature sensor and the on/off switch; that mates with a disposable cartridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Mark Krietzman
  • Patent number: 10076139
    Abstract: Vaporizer devices and apparatuses are provided. In some implementations, an apparatus comprises a cartridge and a vaporizer body. The cartridge comprises a storage compartment configured to hold a vaporizable material, a heater comprising a resistive heating element for generating an aerosol, and a mouthpiece comprising an opening for passage of the aerosol. The vaporizable material is visible through at least one side of the storage compartment. The vaporizer body comprises a proximal end, a distal end opposite the proximal end, and a cartridge receptacle at the proximal end, the cartridge receptacle configured to house the cartridge. The cartridge receptacle comprises a notch extending from the proximal end towards the distal end, and a portion of the storage compartment is visible through the notch when the cartridge is housed in the cartridge receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: JUUL Labs, Inc.
    Inventors: James Monsees, Adam Bowen, Steven Christensen, Joshua Morenstein, Christopher Nicholas HibmaCronan
  • Patent number: 10076140
    Abstract: An aerosol-generating system is provided, including a nicotine source, a lactic acid source, and a single heater configured to heat both the nicotine source and the lactic acid source. The aerosol-generating system may also include an aerosol-generating article including a cartridge having a first compartment including the nicotine source and a second compartment including the lactic acid source; and an aerosol-generating device including the single heater. The cartridge may also include a cavity configured to receive the single heater of the aerosol-generating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Philip Morris Products S.A.
    Inventor: Patrick Charles Silvestrini
  • Patent number: 10076141
    Abstract: A halter bib athletic garment is described herein. A halter bib athletic garment may be removed or lowered without removing a jersey by simply pulling a halter strap over the head of a wearer. One or more embodiments of a halter bib allow wearers to more readily urinate or have a bowel movement because the halter bib may be easily lowered or removed. A halter bib athletic garment may include a lower body section, a chamois coupled to the lower body section, and an upper body section. The upper body section comprises a halter strap forming a portion of a loop of a head opening on the upper body section. The halter strap includes two front side portions and a rear side portion positioned between the front side portions. The rear side portion is coupled to the athletic garment only with the front side portions of the halter strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Bell Sports, Inc.
    Inventor: Karany Nhim
  • Patent number: 10076142
    Abstract: Some embodiments provide reflective safety apparel that combines passive illuminating elements with active illuminating elements for improved nighttime visibility. The active illuminating elements include a laser module coupled to flexible laser tubing. The laser module directs laser light into the flexible laser tubing. The laser tubing retains and transfers the laser light throughout its length even when bent. This flexibility allows the active illuminating elements to outline and conform to the shape of the passive illuminating elements. The laser tubing from different garments, such as a jacket and pants, can be coupled together. A single laser module can illuminate both garments as the laser light traverses the laser tubing of one garment to the other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: F.R.E.D. LLC
    Inventors: Michael Samuelsen, Charlotte Tarantola
  • Patent number: 10076143
    Abstract: A glove having a top surface and a bottom surface is described herein. The top surface and the bottom surface each have an inner surface and an outer surface. The glove includes a plurality of resistance bands, which can be configured to be removably attached to the glove. The resistance bands can be removably attached at connection points on the outer surface of the glove. The glove can also include at least one adjustable resistance mechanism connected to the glove. The adjustable resistance mechanism is configured to adjust degrees of resistance to motion via the resistance bands.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventors: Dean R. Marriott, Daniel A. Sawchuk, Jonathan Aaron Cheung
  • Patent number: 10076144
    Abstract: An elongated wrist towel for wearing on a user's wrist without exerting circumferential pressure over a large portion of the user's arm includes a towel body defining a hollow, elongated sleeve and is sized to encircle the distal arm of a user. The towel body includes an elastic distal edge which allows the elongated wrist towel to be secured to a user's wrist, a non-elastic proximal edge, and an elastic seam which runs longitudinally between the proximal edge and the distal edge. In this regard, when in place on a wearer's arm, the elongated wrist towel can be retained on the wrist through compression from a single rim and selectively moved between extended and compacted positions on a user's arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Migdalia Rivera
  • Patent number: 10076145
    Abstract: A clamping device including a first and second magnet is provided. The first magnet includes predetermined first and second side surface areas, and a first friction element on least one of the first and second side surface areas. The second magnet includes predetermined third and fourth side surface areas, and a second friction element on at least one of the third and fourth side surface areas. The first and second friction elements of the first and second magnets are arranged opposite to each other and define a clamping area between the first and second magnets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Steven J. Harrell
  • Patent number: 10076146
    Abstract: A belt with five different shapes of blades, this belt can be used as a weapon in self-defense. The belt has an extended reach of about 4-6 feet depending on the user's belt size and arm length to strike an adversary, the belt includes a buckle that works as a sheath to conceal any one of the five deadly blades that have been designed to be used as a weapon to strike, cut or spear ones attacker, the belt can be worn with a suit or casual dress, the belt is made of leather, rubber and or elastic and stainless steel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Dexter Vaughn Kennedy
  • Patent number: 10076147
    Abstract: A pant strap is provided. The pant strap is configured to be wrapped about a user's leg over a pant leg, worn under but not attached to footwear so that it is not visible. The pant strap neatly holds the pant leg in place, minimizing wrinkling of the pant leg and allows the pant to be easily slid into and out of an item of footwear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventors: Jason Rich, Lisa Hitchings
  • Patent number: 10076148
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to a bespoke cap for covering and gathering dreadlocks. More specifically, two distinct fabric patterns are layered to form a cap. The first layer's fabric pattern is a crown having a front facing brim and a half oval cut into its rear surface. The crown provides a deep volume to accommodate a large amount of dreadlocks. The second layer is a five piece fabric pattern that is sewn onto and over the first layer. Both layers combine to provide an adjustable oval like aperture at the back of the cap, which allow dreadlocks to be covered and gathered naturally without being damaged. Top panels associated with the second layer have rear closing straps that cinch the aperture at an angle. Each top panel stretches and folds over the first layer's front facing brim to its underside, providing a stylish flat-cap appearance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Compton Alvin Belle, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10076149
    Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods, etc., that provide, in certain aspects, a two-point, adjustable, partially pliable, and releasable tensioning suspension that supports an anti-blunt-force frame connected to a protective helmet. The protective devices herein can be, for example, “sport-level” and “military/law enforcement-level.” The anti-blunt-force frame is positioned and balanced on the wearer's face by an impact absorbing face padding system, including a chin strap, cup or pad comprised of an impact protection material. Thus, in one aspect, the present devices, systems, methods, etc., include an adjustable facial protection system for a human comprising a crescent-shaped face protection element configured to withstand blunt force impact and a ballistic material element to prevent the penetration of ballistic and fragmentation projectiles at various force levels to meet different ballistic hazards. The systems can also include a protective helmet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Eye Safety Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Ross, Aaron Taylor, Chris Randolph Dawson, Joshua Robert Gallegos
  • Patent number: 10076150
    Abstract: An integrated sweat-guiding band and hat comprises a sweat-guiding band having a sweat-guiding portion and an adjustment portion wherein the sweat-guiding band further comprises a base wall and an upwardly extending containment wall defining a channel for conducting sweat away from a user's eyes, the sweat-guiding portion having a plurality of upwardly extending tabs. Adjustment straps are permanently attached to the sweat-guiding band, the adjustment straps including means for adjustably securing the sweat-guiding band to a user's head. A front panel of the hat is configured to couple front the front panel to the upwardly extending tabs to attach the cap/visor to the sweat-guiding band. The tabs are configured to be connected to the front panel in a manner that holds the front panel away from a user's forehead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Erick P. Flatt
  • Patent number: 10076152
    Abstract: An article of footwear with an inner bootie that fits into and is strapped into an external shell to form the article of footwear. The inner bootie may have specially-treated regions that together allow the bootie to slip readily into the external shell and to be held firmly in place. When the inner bootie is in place in the external shell, cable loops woven into the lateral side and the medial side of the inner bootie protrude from corresponding openings in the external shell. A lace may then be laced through the cable loops to fasten the throat opening of the external shell over a wearer's foot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Nadia M. Panian, Tobie D. Hatfield, Elizabeth Langvin
  • Patent number: 10076153
    Abstract: A thermal protection system is disclosed herein. In various aspects, the thermal protection system includes an insert. The insert may include a first layer and a second layer bonded to one another. The insert may be removeably receivable within a cavity of a shoe to form a thermally insulating barrier between a plantar surface of a user's foot and a sole of the shoe with a side of the first layer oriented toward the sole and a side of the second layer oriented toward the plantar surface. The first layer may include an aerogel and the second layer may include a meta aramid polymer, in various aspects. Related compositions of matter disclosed herein, in various aspects, include a plurality of layers bonded to one another in the form of an insert removeably receivable within a cavity of a shoe to create a thermal barrier between a sole of the shoe and a plantar surface of a foot of a user. This Abstract is presented to meet requirements of 37 C.F.R. § 1.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Kassel LLC
    Inventors: Dena Garner, Henry D. Cross, III
  • Patent number: 10076154
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof, including outsoles, which can be used in conditions normally conducive to the accumulation of soil on the outsoles. In particular, the disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof including an outsole with an external hydrogel film that compositionally includes crystalline regions and amorphous hydrophilic regions, where the amorphous regions are covalently bonded to the crystalline regions with carbamate linkages and/or polyamide linkages. The amorphous regions are present in the hydrogel at a ratio of at least 20:1, by weight, relative to the crystalline regions. The outsoles can prevent or reduce the accumulation of soil on the footwear during wear on unpaved surfaces such as sporting fields.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Jeremy D. Walker, Caleb W. Dyer, Zachary C. Wright, Myron Maurer, Denis Schiller, Hossein A. Baghdadi
  • Patent number: 10076155
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof, including outsoles, which can be used in conditions normally conducive to the accumulation of soil on the outsoles. In particular, the disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof including an outsole with an external hydrogel film having a water uptake capacity at 24 hours greater than 40% by weight. The outsoles can prevent or reduce the accumulation of soil on the footwear during wear on unpaved surfaces such as sporting fields. When the outsoles are wetted with water, the outsoles can become more compliant and/or can rapidly uptake and/or expel water, which can prevent soil from adhering to the outsole and/or can assist in shedding soil present on the outsole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Caleb W. Dyer, Zachary C. Wright, Jeremy D. Walker, Myron Maurer, Denis Schiller, Hossein A. Baghdadi
  • Patent number: 10076156
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof, including outsoles, which can be used in conditions normally conducive to the accumulation of soil on the outsoles. In particular, the disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof including an outsole with an external hydrogel film having a water uptake rate greater than 20 g/(m2×min0.5). The outsoles can prevent or reduce the accumulation of soil on the footwear during wear on unpaved surfaces such as sporting fields. When the outsoles are wetted with water, the outsoles can become more compliant and/or can rapidly uptake and/or expel water, which can prevent soil from adhering to the outsole and/or can assist in shedding soil present on the outsole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Caleb W. Dyer, Zachary C. Wright, Jeremy D. Walker, Myron Maurer, Denis Schiller, Hossein A. Baghdadi
  • Patent number: 10076157
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof, including outsoles, which can be used in conditions normally conducive to the accumulation of soil on the outsoles. In particular, the disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof including an outsole with a ground-facing crosslinked polymeric material having a wet-state glass transition temperature more than 6° C. less than its dry-state glass transition temperature. The outsoles can prevent or reduce the accumulation of soil on the footwear during wear on unpaved surfaces such as sporting fields. When the outsoles are wetted with water, the outsoles can become more compliant and/or can rapidly uptake and/or expel water, which can prevent soil from adhering to the outsole and/or can assist in shedding soil present on the outsole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Zachary C. Wright, Caleb W. Dyer, Jeremy D. Walker, Myron Maurer, Denis Schiller, Hossein A. Baghdadi
  • Patent number: 10076158
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof, including outsoles, which can be used in conditions normally conducive to the accumulation of soil on the outsoles. In particular, the disclosure relates to articles of footwear and components thereof including an outsole with an external hydrogel film having a wet-state storage modulus at least 25 MPa lower than its dry-state storage modulus. The outsoles can prevent or reduce the accumulation of soil on the footwear during wear on unpaved surfaces such as sporting fields. When the outsoles are wetted with water, the outsoles can become more compliant and/or can rapidly uptake and/or expel water, which can prevent soil from adhering to the outsole and/or can assist in shedding soil present on the outsole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Zachary C. Wright, Caleb W. Dyer, Jeremy D. Walker, Myron Maurer, Denis Schiller, Hossein A. Baghdadi
  • Patent number: 10076159
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are articles of footwear, and methods of manufacturing articles of footwear, having an open-cell foam present on at least a portion of the outsole. The open-cell foam is effective in reducing soil accumulation on the outsole when the footwear is worn on unpaved surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: NIKE, INC.
    Inventors: Denis Schiller, Caleb W. Dyer, Zachary C. Wright, Jeremy D. Walker, Myron Maurer, Eun Kyung Lee
  • Patent number: 10076160
    Abstract: A lace tensioning device includes a housing component having an interior region, a first aperture, and a second aperture, and a spool component that is rotatably positionable within the interior region of the housing component. The spool component has a central cylindrical member and a lumen that extends through the central cylindrical portion. The spool component is rotatable within the interior region of the housing component to align one end of the lumen with the first aperture and to align an opposite end of the lumen with the second aperture to enable a lace to be inserted through the first aperture, the lumen, and the second aperture so that opposing ends of the lace are positioned exterior to the housing component. A knot may then be tied in the lace and the lace retracted to couple the lace with the housing component and spool component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Boa Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Burns, Randon Kruse, Thomas Pollack
  • Patent number: 10076161
    Abstract: An adjustable strap securing device having a first side adapted to contact the adjustable strap and having a loop end and a tail end, a second side attached to the loop end of the first side at an angle relative to the first side and having a second side distal end, a second side fastener disposed adjacent to the second side distal end, a third side attached to the straight end of the first side at an angle relative to the first side and having a third side distal end, a third side fastener disposed adjacent to the third side distal end. The second side fastener and the third side fastener are adapted to releasably engage the adjustment device of the adjustable strap. A method for providing an adjustable strap securing device and securing the adjustable strap securing device around an adjustable strap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Maranda Nicole Walden
  • Patent number: 10076162
    Abstract: Apparatus and process are described for forming projections on a substrate for use as hook-type fasteners in touch fastening systems, wherein vibration energy may be used to soften a substrate which may be positioned between a mold and a source of vibration. The mold may include a plurality of cavities into which the softened substrate may be forced to form the projections. The substrate may comprise a film, sheet, web, composite, laminate, etc. and be useful as an attachment strip for temporary or permanent fastening. The source of vibration may be an ultrasonic horn. The process to form such projections may be operated in a continuous, semi-continuous or intermittent manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Gerald Rocha
  • Patent number: 10076163
    Abstract: To provide an electric slide fastener system that can operate appropriately according to a state of an electric slider. An electric slide fastener system includes a slide fastener chain that includes a pair of fastener tapes and element rows including a plurality of elements fixed to the respective fastener tapes, a slider that moves with respect to the slide fastener chain, a power supply that supplies power for the slider to move with respect to the slide fastener chain, and a driving part to which the power is supplied from the power supply and that moves the slider with respect to the slide fastener chain. The elements pass through the slider to open or close the element rows. The slider is powered from outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: YKK Corporation
    Inventors: Toru Umekawa, Kazuya Takase
  • Patent number: 10076164
    Abstract: Disclosed are various examples of a jewelry catch. The jewelry catch can include a base eyelet comprising an anchor eye, a pivot eye and a bar that connects the anchor eye to the pivot eye. The jewelry catch can also include a double eyelet that includes a catch eye and a jewelry eye. Further, the jewelry catch can include a male clasp that includes a hook protruding from the male clasp and configured to slide into a channel shaped to receive the hook. Likewise, the jewelry catch can include a female clasp that includes a channel shaped to receive the hook, thereby securing the male clasp to the female clasp through friction between the hook of the male clasp and the channel of female clasp when the jewelry catch is in a closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: DREAM CATCH INC.
    Inventor: Martin A. Collins
  • Patent number: 10076165
    Abstract: A ring assembly including a shank having a band defining a head mounting area with a through hole defined through the band in the head mounting area. The through hole defines internal threads; and a head including a mount with a post extending therethrough, the post including an area of external threads configured to engage the internal threads to releasably secure the head to the shank. Methods for forming and demonstrating ring assemblies are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Kenneth Fogel
  • Patent number: 10076166
    Abstract: A luggage system includes a first piece of luggage, a second piece of luggage, a first attachment member positioned on the first piece of luggage, and a second attachment member positioned on the second piece of luggage and adapted to couple to the first attachment member to secure the first and second pieces of luggage together, wherein the first and second attachment members are in a movable arrangement when coupled such that the first and second pieces of luggage move relative each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Soon Young Kim
  • Patent number: 10076167
    Abstract: A luggage transport system includes a first piece of luggage, a transport platform movably coupled to the first piece of luggage, and at least one additional piece of luggage supported on the transport platform, wherein the transport platform is adapted to be elevated and lowered relative the first piece of luggage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Soon Young Kim
  • Patent number: 10076168
    Abstract: A case construction selectively encases and displays an electronic device, and includes a device-holding cradle and multi-section panel assembly attachable to the device-holding cradle. The device-holding cradle is sized and shaped to removably receive an electronic device, and provides an anterior device-receiving section and a posterior panel assembly interface. The posterior panel interface includes an anchor portion for attaching the panel assembly thereto and seat portion in adjacency to the anchor portion for allowing dynamic panel portions to rest thereupon. An attachment mechanism operates to attach the multi-section panel assembly to the device-receiving cradle such that a pair of panel portions from the four panel portions are pivotal about a select one of two pivot axes for supporting the device-holding cradle in either a landscape or portrait orientation angled display position relative to a support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: WORLD RICHMAN MANUFACTURING CORPORATION
    Inventor: Saharut Sirichai
  • Patent number: 10076169
    Abstract: A tote assembly is provided having a basket and an insert sized to be slideably received within the basket. The insert can be one of a plurality of inserts, each sized to be slideably received within the basket wherein the inserts can have different interior dividers to define compartments for accessories or equipment associated with a particular activity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Michael J. Clough
  • Patent number: 10076170
    Abstract: A storage solution for children's toys is described. A storage and transportation device for children's items (e.g., toys, puzzles, craft supplies, etc.) is specially designed to be used by children, including children under three years old. The storage solution may also include an improved zipper pull for opening and closing the storage and transportation device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Lucky Cat Inc. LLC
    Inventors: Kelly Gardner, Sebastian Gardner, Phoebe Gardner
  • Patent number: 10076171
    Abstract: The present innovation of the Two Way Plastic Needle identifies with another technique for crocheting, weaving and sewing the hair. The Two Way Plastic Needle is in an oblong flexible adaptable shape at the highest point of the needle, for crocheting in dreadlock hair augmentations, Interlock hair expansions, hair meshes, hair turn, utilizing characteristic sew hair or engineered hair. The Two Way Plastic Needle identifies with the pointed end of the little opening of the needle, to thread the needle and go underneath the braid twist to add-on and sew in the weft of the hair augmentation to the braid twist of the hair for furnishing a client with presence of having longer, fuller thicker hair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Josephine Spann Myers
  • Patent number: 10076172
    Abstract: A diffuser includes a baffle having an air inlet end, an air outlet end and an outwardly tapering wall extending between the air inlet end and the air outlet end, and which defines a diffusing air chamber, and a grille connected to the baffle, the grille including a plurality of air outlets. The air inlet end of the baffle includes an air inlet and a drainage channel, spaced from the air inlet, for receiving water which has entered the air chamber through the air outlets. The drainage channel has drainage holes for draining water away from the air inlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: Dyson Technology Limited
    Inventors: Philip Jonathan Stephens, Stephen Farrar Smith
  • Patent number: 10076173
    Abstract: An apparatus for cutting nails includes single and dual blade embodiments with a frame formed primarily of plastic that includes upper and lower frame members. Numerous variations of a reinforcing member are disclosed. The reinforcing member is embedded in or attached to at least one of the frame members so that a portion, thereof, is preferably disposed in vertical alignment with a force that is applied to at least one of the frame members during use to reduce a magnitude of shear experienced and to also improve an ability to withstand shear. Optional integrally-formed sidewalls provide a container for capturing clippings and also reinforce the frame member thereby reducing flexing while also increasing its ability to withstand shear. Other disclosed innovations include improvements to the lever and blade, automatically file the nail, enhance safety and function, allow customization, improve aesthetics, and lower cost. Numerous other significant improvements are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventors: Alexandre Rachid Kaidi, Hamid Reza Shamsapour, Risto Aadolf Rinne, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10076174
    Abstract: A container that seals in a volume of material is provided. The container may be routinely opened, closed and material may be removed or added. A removable plate and a base define a maximum volume available for material when the container is sealed. A screen may be disposed between the plate and the base. The screen may optionally be comprised within the base, adhered to the base, or removable from the base. Features for enabling manipulation of the plate and/or screen are optionally provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2017
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Ted Tobey
  • Patent number: 10076175
    Abstract: A device for storing, mixing and applying skincare, cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical products includes a tubular housing which is used to hold a plurality of dispensing canisters, a plurality of plungers, and a dispensing actuation hub. The plurality of dispensing canisters is used to store various types of skincare, cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical products. Each of the plurality of plungers is used to dispense products from a corresponding dispensing canister. Each of the plurality of plungers is controlled by the dispensing actuation hub. The device includes a microprocessor housed within the tubular housing and used to control which products are dispensed by the dispensing actuation hub. The device is powered by power supply which is also housed within the tubular housing. A mixing chamber is included within the tubular housing and provides a space for multiple products to be blended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Jonathan Eng Jin Wee
  • Patent number: 10076176
    Abstract: A mirror assembly can include a housing, a mirror, and a light source. In some embodiments, the mirror comprises one or more adjustable sections. In certain embodiments, the mirror includes a light column configured to emit a substantially constant amount of light along a periphery of a mirror section. In some embodiments, the light column can produce various color temperatures. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly comprises a capacitive touch sensor that allows control of one or more features of the light emitted from the light source. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly can be configured control on/off settings and other features of the emitted light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Assignee: simplehuman, LLC
    Inventors: Frank Yang, Tzu-Hao Wei, Guy Cohen, Joseph Sandor
  • Patent number: 10076177
    Abstract: A compression system for an ergonomic backpack is disclosed. The backpack includes a backpack body having a top side, a bottom side, two lateral sides, a body side, an outer side and a pair of shoulder straps. In the embodiment, each shoulder strap is connected at a junction of the top side and the body side, extended along the corresponding lateral side, threaded through the D-ring with a distal end connected to the backpack body at a junction of the outer side and the lateral side. The invention also comprises an optional back panel and an optional back support device, secured to the body side. The back panel and support device may be filled with padding material such as a gel, foam, rubber, fluid or the like. When the user ties the two straps, the backpack is automatically compressed and moves closer to the user's back The system, operated like a regular two-strap backpack, allows the user to carry heavier loads for a longer period of time with less fatigue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventors: Kaitlynn Li, Pei Li
  • Patent number: 10076178
    Abstract: An improved hammock suspension system is provided which is both laterally stable and flat, and suspended between two spaced trees by longitudinally elongated web straps coupled to an independent anchor strap, one at each end. These longitudinally elongated web straps are affixed to each longitudinal side edge and extend a distance beyond the opposing hammock body ends, creating four web extensions. These web extensions extend a distance to accommodate spreader member receptacles which secure horizontal, rigid spreader members, thus transferring load forces along opposing longitudinal edges, creating a flatter sleeping platform. The extensions also accommodate fasteners, creating four points of connection and coupling the elongated web strap extensions to an independent web strap anchored to a tree by passing the strap around the tree at minimum 540 degrees, fully encircling and anchoring the strap to the tree and preventing slippage, while also alleviating torsional roll.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventors: Seth Vaughan Stapf, Charles Gray Whicker, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10076179
    Abstract: The disclosed technology is a secure-cell apparatus for releasably securely associating a device, such as a cellular phone, with a device user. The device is configured to clamp to a support structure such as a strap, belt, seatbelt, and suspenders. The secure-cell apparatus my further define a zone for storing items such as keys, cards, IDs, etc. Such “zone” may further define a personality interface configured to receive a personality module. Personality modules are in electrical communication with an electronic device associated with the secure-cell apparatus and may add additional functionality to such electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2018
    Inventor: Jorge Asay