Methods Patents (Class 116/201)
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Patent number: 5964179Abstract: There is provided a method for marking the treated areas of soil or ground surface wherein the boundary markers have a high degree of visibility, thereby permitting the boundary markers to be distinguishable from a distance and in less than ideal lighting conditions. The marking medium used in the boundary marker utilizes chemiluminescence to radiate light. The chemiluminescence may also be controlled to regulate the length of time marking medium radiates light. When the marking medium is applied to the ground to mark the boundary of the treated area in accordance with the present invention, the marker is easily distinguishable from a distance and may be easily viewed in less than ideal lighting conditions.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 1997Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Inventor: Thomas E. Holloway, Jr.
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Patent number: 5950560Abstract: A kit is disclosed for improving reading comfort or increasing interest in reading, the kit comprising at least two differently-colored transparent overlays. Also disclosed is a method for improving reading comfort or increasing interest in reading comprising the steps of sequentially placing each of at least two differently-colored overlays over the material being read, subjectively determining which of the differently-colored overlays provides the maximum eye comfort while reading or creates the greatest interest in reading, and placing the overlay that provides maximum eye comfort or interest over the material being read.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 1998Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Inventors: Mary A. Block, Joan F. Anderson
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Patent number: 5824554Abstract: A method and device for the detection of allergenic substances in food products. The device comprises a dining mat, such as a doily, formed of an absorbent material and small spots of reagents are applied to isolated zones on the mat. Each reagent is characterized by the ability to change its characteristics when contacted by an allergenic substance. A label can be applied to the mat adjacent each reagent indicating the respective allergenic substance. In use, a small amount of a food product is applied to a reagent and if the food product contains the allergenic substance, the reagent will change its appearance indicating the presence of the allergenic substance in the food product.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 1996Date of Patent: October 20, 1998Inventor: Florine M. McKay
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Patent number: 5816165Abstract: Rolls of printer paper are marked with information which indicates the length of paper remaining on a roll by measuring the distance between indicia successively applied by two separate print drums which each apply indicia at substantially equally spaced first and second intervals, respectively. The length of paper remaining on the roll is determinable by measuring the spacing between indicia applied by each drum. Some of the applied indicia may also be bar-coded with roll length indicia which includes a second means of determining length of paper remaining on a print roll and other information such as paper type, total roll length and name of the manufacturer. The indicia can be applied at speeds of paper travel substantially higher than the fastest known dynamic printing techniques.Type: GrantFiled: February 10, 1997Date of Patent: October 6, 1998Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventor: Craig S. Huston
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Patent number: 5803351Abstract: Carton liners are used in freezing frames for the preparation of large frozen blocks of fresh food material, e.g. fish fillets. The liners have a lid with skirt flaps to be closed upon filling of the liner, and care should be taken that the lid flaps be located at the outsides of the liner walls inside the freezing frame, as they may otherwise be embedded in the material to be frozen and thus disturb the regularity of the frozen block material. The same applies to corner flaps which, already by the mounting of the liner, should be folded to assume an exterior position. According to the invention, in order to ascertain a correct mounting and closing of the liners once they have been removed from the freezing frames, such liners are used which are provided with printed marking on those outside area portions that are to be covered by exterior liner/lid flaps, and the closed liners are inspected for detection of any visible marking, which will be indicative of a potentially defect block product.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1997Date of Patent: September 8, 1998Assignee: Cartolit ApSInventor: Mogens Nielsen
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Patent number: 5724910Abstract: An apparatus, system and method for emergency under-door signalling includes a paddle in the form of an elongate strip of stiff plastic material bearing on its surface a phosphorescent marker. The strip may be slid under the door of an apartment or other building unit in an emergency situation, for example a fire, to indicate to emergency response personnel that the unit is occupied. The system includes a strip storage mechanism, for example a hook that will mount the paddle on a wall and an indicator for attachment to the outside of the door to indicate any relevant handicap that the unit occupant may suffer.Type: GrantFiled: August 4, 1995Date of Patent: March 10, 1998Inventors: Robin John Annesley, Dorothy Yakiwchuk
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Patent number: 5713300Abstract: The device for providing the visual location of the location of the end of the dipstick tube is provided. The device makes it easier for a motorist to replace the dipstick in the dipstick tube after checking the fluid level (i.e., motor oil level, transmission fluid level, etc.) of an internal combustion engine or other industrial apparatus. One preferred device made in accordance with the present invention includes a flat ring-shaped structure of a bright color that is mounted directly over the end of a dipstick tube.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1996Date of Patent: February 3, 1998Inventor: Ray Hubert
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Patent number: 5711245Abstract: An alignment guide for indicating the location of a waste water outlet port of a large vehicle, such as a motor home, which is not directly visible to the driver of the vehicle. This device is comprised of a brightly-colored indicator flag which is attached to the distal end of an extending arm. The proximal end of the extending arm is mounted directly to, or near the vehicle's waste water drain. When extended, the indicator flag offers the driver of the vehicle a reference point by which he may align the vehicle to the waste water receptacle.Type: GrantFiled: November 23, 1994Date of Patent: January 27, 1998Assignee: Valterra Products Inc.Inventor: Kenneth John Knirck
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Patent number: 5660417Abstract: A deformation indicator is disclosed for repeatably adjusting the fasteners on a flange assembly to maintain a leak-free joint. The indicator is mounted on one of the fasteners used for fastening together the flange members, and extends to a predetermined distance from the adjacent flange member. When the flange fasteners must be adjusted to account for creep in the packing material in the flange, they are adjusted to restore the distance between the indicator and the adjacent flange member to the predetermined value.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1995Date of Patent: August 26, 1997Assignee: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventor: David W. Reeves
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Patent number: 5655475Abstract: According to the present grinding method, a plurality of optical markers are formed by photolithography such that the markers are embedded in a chiplet having a magnetic head. Markers are preferably in the shape of a bar having predetermined height, width and length and are spaced from each other by a predetermined distance where one end of the bars are sequentially offset from each other by a predetermined amount. During coarse grinding of the magnetic head as the magnetic head surface material is ground away, the end-face of the bars, one at a time, become visible. The closer the grinding surface approaches the desired inductive throat or MR element height, more end-faces become visible. Coarse grinding continues until a predetermined number of end-faces become visible at which point the grinding process is terminated and the magnetic head is ready for the final lapping process.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 1996Date of Patent: August 12, 1997Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Douglas Warren Crandell, Edward Hin Pong Lee, David John Seagle
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Patent number: 5626093Abstract: A shift lever indicator assembly is provided for use in conjunction with a shift lever having a pivot axis. The shift lever indicator assembly comprises a housing having a housing track. An indicator member having a flag portion is slidably located within the housing track. The indicator member also includes an indicator arm connected to the flag portion, the indicator arm being connected to the shift lever such that the flag portion will be moved about the pivot axis of the shift lever when the shift lever is moved while allowing the flag portion to move lateral to an arc about the pivot axis.Type: GrantFiled: November 21, 1994Date of Patent: May 6, 1997Assignee: JSJ CorporationInventors: Randy Jacobs, Robert W. Roossien
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Patent number: 5626094Abstract: A device of any material, shape, size, texture, style, color, configuration, and orientation that is affixed, secured, or is an integral part to a staircase handguide, to a handguide support or frame, or to a sidewall. The device provides anyone, ascending or descending the stairs, with a tactile cue that indicates the pedestrian's approach to a final step in a series of steps. A pedestrian senses the tactile indicator to determine when he or she is at the last step so as to change accordingly his or her walking or motion. This safety indicator is intended for the public at large. A pedestrian without sight, with impaired or limited sight, or with compromised sight (due to power outage, light-source outage, smoke-filled stairwell, temporary blindness, etc.) can negotiate stairs with greatly increased safety, speed, and confidence.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1995Date of Patent: May 6, 1997Inventors: Robert T. Jeffery, Brian F. Donnelly, Robert S. Krolick
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Patent number: 5613463Abstract: A device for assigning numbers to products having casings, such as electronic calculators, has at least two digit wheels, each preferably having digits 0 through 9. One of the digit wheels is transparent, while the other may be opaque, with a light background. The digits on each of the two wheels are offset from radial lines such that two-digit numbers can be made with selected digits juxtaposed. If three digit wheels are included the tens wheel has digits centered on radial lines. The casing of the product to be numbered has a number viewing window and an internal peg on which the digit wheels are held and can be rotated for adjustment, as well as at least one peg or pin for engaging registry holes to align and maintain the digit wheels in proper position. In a preferred embodiment the digit wheels are manipulated to the proper number by removing the back from the casing.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 1995Date of Patent: March 25, 1997Inventor: William T. Stokes
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Patent number: 5492077Abstract: An easy open beverage container has a lever tab for breaking open a scored panel portion of the end wall by lifting up the distal lift end. The tab is held rotatably to the end wall by a rivet, which acts as a fulcrum forcing the proximal end of the tab downward to break open the scored panel portion. A plurality of spaced apart, unique indicia are disposed in an arc on the panel wall around the rivet. The distal lift end, after opening the can is lowered to lie against the end wall and is rotated to point to one of said indicia to thereby uniquely identify that opened container so that it will not be inadvertently used by another.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 1995Date of Patent: February 20, 1996Inventor: Howard L. Rose
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Patent number: 5425329Abstract: Fill indicator apparatus (10) for use in a feed bin (B) to visually indicate the level to which the bin is filled witch feed (F). A first visual indicator (12) includes a first flag (18) positioned externally of the bin and movable linearly along the side of the bin. The flag is movable to a reference position prior to the bin being filled, and the flag subsequently moves from one position to another as feed is taken from the bin. The subsequent positions of the flag represent the level of feed remaining in the bin. A second and separate visual indicator (14) includes a second flag (22) also positioned externally of the bin. This second flag is movable in response to an increasing level of feed in the bin, as it is being filled, to provide a visual indication of the level to which the bin is filled. This helps prevent spillage.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 1993Date of Patent: June 20, 1995Inventor: Eugene B. Pollock
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Patent number: 5421286Abstract: A disposable shaver having a shaving head and handle equipped with blister bubbles positioned along the handle of the shaver. The blister bubbles are depressible from convex to concave and are provided to count the number of times the shaver is used. The method comprises the use of the inventive shaver to compute the useful life of a particular brand of disposable shaver.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 1993Date of Patent: June 6, 1995Inventor: Scott McLean
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Patent number: 5323729Abstract: A crush indicating device is disclosed which is designed to be attached to an object or a container for the purpose of indicating whether the object or container subsequently is subjected to excessive force, acceleration or shock. The indicator device has a contrasting agent reservoir filled with a contrasting agent, an absorbing wick and a compressible wall. The compressible wall extends between the wick and the reservoir, holding them in a fixed apart relationship while the wall is uncompressed. Application of force to the device compresses the wall and brings the wick into contact with the reservoir. The wick absorbs contrasting agent from the reservoir, resulting in a marked visible change in the wick which signifies that excessive force has been applied to the device. A base is located at one end of the wall, supporting the reservoir and providing means to attach the device to an object or container. A transparent cover sheet is located at the opposite end of the wall.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 1993Date of Patent: June 28, 1994Assignee: Media Recovery, Inc.Inventor: Ulyss R. Rubey
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Patent number: 5271954Abstract: The invention concerns the application of a layer of ceramic or glass particles to the surface of a substrate which is to be heated. The glass or ceramic particles are sized and mixed with an organic binder which yields a thin slurry consistency. The carrier or binder hardens. The part is subjected to a running environment with air flow directed across its surface, and then inspected after test to determine flow direction and possibly relative magnitude of the flow. This binder leaves essentially no residue after combustion and holds the glassy particles together so they adhere to the substrate at low temperature. The glass or ceramic particles in the coating are chosen to have a melting point below the operating temperature of the surface so that the applique will flow in the direction of gas movement. Additionally, the choice of melting point is made to give the coating a viscosity which permits enough "smearing" at the velocity and time of interest for visual inspection.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1992Date of Patent: December 21, 1993Assignee: Avco CorporationInventor: Richard T. Mastanduno
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Patent number: 5235853Abstract: A monobloc mold for making pressed glass containers having engraved volumetric indications has corresponding male and female die portions. The female die is engraved in the lateral wall with volumetric indications and is engraved in the bottom wall with specifications relative to the volumetric indications. The volumetric indications comprise at least one series of horizontal lines and a symbol corresponding to each series, and the specifications comprise for each series the corresponding symbol and a verbal description of the information revealed by the volumetric indications, so that the indications and specifications are imparted to a glass container formed by pressing in the mold.Type: GrantFiled: May 26, 1992Date of Patent: August 17, 1993Assignee: Companhia Vidraria Santa MarinaInventor: Marilia Cruz B. Froes
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Patent number: 5230133Abstract: A plurality of pairs of identifying tags are provided. Each pair is made up of two identical tags, with each tag of each pair having a main, elongated, body-portion, preferably made of plastic, such as polyvinylchloride, in which is embedded a thin, elongated strip of flexible, pliable steel wire. In the preferred embodiment, the main, elongated body-portion is formed along a portion of its length with toothed projections which serve in aiding to retain the tag in a hole, when the respective tag is to be used for identifying a hole associated with a mating screw. The embedded steel wire helps to retain the shape of the tag when the tag is bent or wrapped about a workpiece or component being identified. In one embodiment of the invention, the ends of the steel wire project outwardly beyond the ends of the plastic main body-portion, so that the ends of the wire may be twisted together to removably hold tag on the workpiece or component being identified, after the tag has been bent thereabout.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 1992Date of Patent: July 27, 1993Inventor: Pasquale Esposito
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Patent number: 5224439Abstract: The warning arrow of the present invention is in the nature of a frame to be temporarily mounted either directly to the body of the vehicle or to the underside of its trunk lid. In a preferred embodiment, the warning arrow is composed of a brightly-colored fabric material for high daytime visibility, and with the arrow being outlined by a plurality of light-reflective filaments for nighttime illumination by the beams of oncoming vehicular headlights. In accordance with the invention, a plurality of self-adhering fabric strips couple to the frame of the mount, either to magnetically secure the warning arrow to the body of the vehicle, or to extend it between its raised trunk lid and a point within its then opened trunk.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1992Date of Patent: July 6, 1993Inventors: Danald J. O'Connell, Stephen C. Leahy
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Patent number: 5213760Abstract: A method for signaling a lens user when the user's lenses are overworn. The lenses have applied a handling tint, and the lenses are disinfected in an oxidant solution. The amount of tint added to the lens is such that after soaking the lens for a predetermined period of time in the disinfectant solution, over the expected lifetime of the lens, a noticeable change in the appearance of the handling tint is observed. If the lens is intended to have a fixed lifetime, and the lens is intended to be soaked in a disinfectant solution on a regular basis and for a fixed period of time for the lens lifetime, the amount of the handling tint in the lens can be adjusted such that the handling tint is bleached out or changes color after the lens undergoes regular disinfection within the predetermined lens lifetime.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1992Date of Patent: May 25, 1993Assignee: Allergan, Inc.Inventors: Anthony J. Dziabo, Jr., Paul S. Ripley
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Patent number: 5191979Abstract: A set of drinking cups is provided with a series of individual identifying indicia, which serve to distinguish one cup of the set from another. The indicia may be printed or otherwise applied to the cups. The indicia may also be hidden as the cups are supplied, to be revealed when a mask is removed therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1985Date of Patent: March 9, 1993Inventor: Allan Nemeroff
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Patent number: 5186119Abstract: A modular marking system for permanently marking the playing field on an athletic field with removable upright visible markers containing a variable diameter spring means for attaching an above ground, upright visible marker to a ground anchor. The variable diameter spring means comprises heavy gauge coiled steel having a large diameter coil section disposed within the ground anchor and a small diameter coil section secured within the upright visible marker, where the intermediate diameter reduction area is approximate to ground level to facilitate bending at ground level upon impact from any direction. The ground anchors permanently mark critical intersecting points of playing field lines, where the ground anchors can be used for aligning and visible marking playing field lines and subsequently for supporting the upright visible markers. The modular marking system is particularly useful for permanently marking different playing fields on the sme athletic field.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 1992Date of Patent: February 16, 1993Assignee: Markers, Inc.Inventor: Dale J. Hlavin
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Patent number: 5178091Abstract: This invention relates to a novel means for detecting a low level of liquid in a reservoir. One application for the invention is to provide a way to indicate when the level of windshield washer fluid for a vehicle is at a low level. According to one of its broad aspects, the windshield washer fluid noticeable changes color on the windshield, when it is running low in the reservoir; for example, changing from very light blue to an intense red. There are known electrical and mechanical means for indicating the level of a fluid in a reservoir. However, these indicators of fluid level rely on special equipment such as floats and electrical contacts. An advantage of the present invention, is that it can be used with existing windshield washer reservoirs without the need for additional equipment and/or gauges in the interior of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 1990Date of Patent: January 12, 1993Inventors: David Griller, Robert Gould
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Patent number: 5129352Abstract: A timing device for association with a conventional coffee decanter wherein the device comprises a collar for mounting on the neck of the decanter and a tab extending from the collar and mounting an adjustable timing device for indicating time of placement of a fresh brew into the decanter and/or time when the brew is stale and should be discarded.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 1990Date of Patent: July 14, 1992Assignee: Specialty Equipment Companies, Inc.Inventor: Melvin F. Roberts
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Patent number: 5111768Abstract: A method is disclosed for substantially eliminating undercooling in a liquid cooled below its freezing point which comprises utilizing a nucleating agent system comprising:(1) a nucleating agent which is a metal compound, insoluble in the liquid, the metal compound and liquid having similar molecular space groupings; and(2) at least 0.075 wt. % based on the metal compound of a soluble salt of a metal which is the same metal as that of the metal compound.In a preferred embodiment the valence state of the metal of the salt is the same as that of the metal of the metal compound. In another embodiment a metal compound of limited solubility, e.g., less than 1% by weight in the liquid, more preferably about 0.15 to about 0.25 wt. %, is utilized to serve the function of both the insoluble nucleating agent and the soluble metal salt.Where the liquid is water, deuterium oxide or mixtures thereof the preferred metal compound is cupric sulfide and the preferred salt is cupric sulfate.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1991Date of Patent: May 12, 1992Assignee: Pymah CorporationInventors: Raymond P. Larsson, George T. Levendusky
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Patent number: 5070729Abstract: A method is provided for visualizing aerodynamic flow effects on a test surface. First, discrete quantities of a sublimating chemical such as naphthalene are distinctively colored via appropriate dyes or paints. Next, a uniform layer of the sublimating chemical having a particular color is applied to the test surface. This layer is covered with a second uniform layer of a different colored sublimating chemical, and so on until a composite of multi-colored layers is formed having a discrete thickness. Friction caused by an airflow results in the distinctly colored layers being removed in proportion to such aerodynamic flow characteristics as velocity and temperature, resulting in a multi-colored portrait which approximates the airflow on the underlying test surface.Type: GrantFiled: December 3, 1990Date of Patent: December 10, 1991Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space AdministrationInventor: Ronald N. Jensen
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Patent number: 5061379Abstract: A system for measured tightening of an oil filter to an engine block mount includes an array of clocks placed circumferential around oil filter (20). Each clock has one dark hand (26) and one light hand (28). The light hand is advanced of the dark hand. The degree of tightening is determined by amount of separation between hands. As filter is rotated, next clock coming into view, has hands positioned one hour advanced (4-13). Panoramic movement of hands as filter is turned will indicate degree of rotation and tightening.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 1990Date of Patent: October 29, 1991Inventor: Dennis J. White
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Patent number: 4915975Abstract: A method of flow visualization comprises the steps of coating the surface of a component in a pigmented oil-based paint of non-gelling characteristics, applying dry dye particles, which are soluble in the oil based paint to the surface of the coating and passing a fluid flow over the component.The fluid flow causes the dye particles to translate across the coating so that regions of the particles that are in contact with the coating dissolve to leave trails on the surface of the coating which are indicative of the relative strengths of the fluid flows acting on the surfaces of the component.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1988Date of Patent: April 10, 1990Assignee: Rolls-Royce plcInventor: Hugh M. L. Watson
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Patent number: 4913083Abstract: A method for reminding a person when to take medication, is provided. A series of indicia are put on a plurality of flat areas about the circumference of the safety cap, which are in line with the interior stops of the safety cap. The indicia corresponds to times medication is required to be taken. The safety cap is placed upon a safety bottle in such a manner that one of the flat areas line up with an indicator below one of the plurality of exterior stops on the safety bottle that engage with the interior stops of the safety cap so as to show a person the first time medication is to be taken. The safety cap is then removed from the safety bottle and then replaced back on the safety bottle in such a manner that each next in sequence of the flat areas line up with the indicator 22 so as to show the person each next time medication is to be taken.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1988Date of Patent: April 3, 1990Inventors: James Valvo, Paul Valvo
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Patent number: 4913843Abstract: Whether a compound will thermoparticulate, that is, decompose to produce particles detectable by an ion chamber monitor or a condensation nuclei monitor and, if so, at what temperature, is predicted by determining the decomposition products of the compound, eliminating the compound if none of its decomposition products are greater than 25 .ANG., and using the temperature at which the decomposition products greater than 25 .ANG. have a vapor pressure of 10 millimeters as an estimate of the temperature at which the compound will decompose to produce products detectable by the monitor. Also disclosed are compounds which have been found to thermoparticulate at low temperatures.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1983Date of Patent: April 3, 1990Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.Inventors: D. Colin Phillips, James D. B. Smith
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Patent number: 4901663Abstract: A system of indicating towel roll depletion in rolled towel dispensers. The end of the towel roll is treated with two ink or dye stripes, one longer than the other. Due to capillary action, the stripes carry a short distance across the surface of the towel. When enough toweling is consumed to reach the longer stripe, a series of single coding marks appear along the edge of the towel, indicating that the roll has been reduced to stub size. As more toweling is used, the shorter mark is reached and a series of double coding marks appear along type edge of the towel. The double marks indicate that the end of the roll is imminent.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 1988Date of Patent: February 20, 1990Assignee: Georgia-Pacific CorporationInventor: Raymond F. De Luca
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Patent number: 4893581Abstract: A display method is provided which comprises imparting a thermal energy to a display medium prepared by polymerizing a monomolecular film of a diacetylene derivative compound or a built-up film thereof and brought to a first state, so as to change said display medium to a second state within a temperature wherein the reversibility of change between the first state and the second state can be maintained.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1988Date of Patent: January 16, 1990Assignee: Canon Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiroshi Matsuda, Toshihiko Miyazaki
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Patent number: 4887543Abstract: A method and a device to aid in recollecting to retrieve an umbrella left in a building including an eye device on the handle of the umbrella with a identification plastic panel attached with a spring clip through the eye. The identification device is unclipped from the umbrella when the umbrella is left behind upon entrance to the building and is immediately clipped onto a key ring on which automobile or residence door keys are clipped. If the umbrella is forgotten, the next use of the key ring will automatically remind the user that the umbrella has been left behind. After the umbrella has been retrieved, the identification device is unclipped from the key ring and reattached to the eye device on the umbrella for the next use.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1989Date of Patent: December 19, 1989Inventor: Sondra Rockhill
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Patent number: 4850878Abstract: A method for sighting engine components in an engine compartment by first locating a desired perimeter label which is brightly colored and then to envision a straight line from that label to the respective engine component. The engine component will have detection means similar in color to the label to thereby provide immediate recognition. Certain hidden components may also be sighted with the use of two perimeter labels which have respective envisioned straight lines intersecting at the component's location.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 1985Date of Patent: July 25, 1989Inventor: Robert W. Perotti
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Patent number: 4825801Abstract: An improved tamper indicating seal is disclosed, characterized by the generation of a unique signature pattern which, if altered, is indicative of tampering. The seal includes a layer of transparent material which is applied to at least a portion of a secure object or container. A plurality of particles of refective material are randomly arranged within the layer in a unique orientation. When the seal is exposed to light, the particles reflect a portion of the light to produce a unique reflective pattern which corresponds with the orientation of the particles. Alteration of the particle orientation as a result of tampering alters the reflective pattern. Thus when the reflected pattern of a seal does not correspond with its original signature pattern, tampering is indicated.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1987Date of Patent: May 2, 1989Assignee: The United States of America as represented by The Director of National SecurityInventor: Paul A. Weber
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Patent number: 4822743Abstract: A reusable indicating material for detecting leaks in sealed structures and other closed bodies comprises a fabric saturated with an indicator solution containing an acid-base indicator, a surfactant, a buffering system and a humectant. The indicator solution remains reactive when the fabric is dry to the touch and will indicate the presence of leaks in the structure being tested by changing color when a reactive gas escapes from the structure being tested. Upon removal from the tested structure the indicator material reverts to its original color and is available for subsequent tests.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1984Date of Patent: April 18, 1989Assignee: Lockheed CorporationInventor: Jeffrey G. Wegrzyn
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Patent number: 4813712Abstract: A pattern is applied to a particular surface in order to detect whether that the surface is in a concave or convex state. One set of regions within the surface bear one color or other coherent appearance, and another set bear a different color or a different coherent appearance. When the surface is in a convex state, light is predominantly reflected from one set of regions, whereas, in the concave state light is reflected from the other set of regions. In this way a clearly visible indication is given of the state of the surface. The surface can, for example, be part of a vacuum pack containing foodstuffs so as to indicate whether the vacuum in the pack remains or has been broken.Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 1987Date of Patent: March 21, 1989Assignee: Blockfoil LimitedInventor: Peter E. Scopes
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Patent number: 4793489Abstract: A tamper resistant package has an inaccessible aerobic atmosphere indicator in the form of an incandescent filament. Specifically, the package comprises a container having an access opening, a first interior compartment for product storage exposed to the access opening, a second interior compartment isolated from the opening, and a lid adapted to seal the access opening. An aerobic atmosphere indicator is disposed in the second compartment. The response of the indicator is transmitted to the exterior of the container. Gas flow is permitted from the first compartment to the second compartment without permitting removal of the indicator from the second compartment. As a result, the indicator is protected from tampering in the event the seal is broken and the lid is opened.A product for human consumption and the indicator are placed in the package. Thereafter, the package is atmospherically evacuated and sealed. Pending use of the product, the resulting package is then stored.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 1987Date of Patent: December 27, 1988Inventor: Howard A. Israel
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Patent number: 4729472Abstract: A use-monitoring closure for the open top of a tennis ball can including a cap for releasably attaching to and closing the open top, and an adjustable use recorder/displayer on the cap for recording and displaying the usage of tennis balls within the can.Type: GrantFiled: July 2, 1986Date of Patent: March 8, 1988Inventors: Martin Lubin, Adam Lubin
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Patent number: 4718553Abstract: Tamper-evident packaging comprises an erected, filled, and closed carton having an outer surface with ink printed thereon visible from outside of the closed carton, and transparent film overwrapping the closed carton and secured to the ink on the outer carton surface in selected differentially adherent patterns. Removal of the film from the overwrapped carbon also removes the ink in one of the patterns to reveal the desired pattern of deinked outer carton surface and to thereby evidence tampering with the packaging.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1987Date of Patent: January 12, 1988Assignee: Ivy Hill CorporationInventors: Anthony R. Adamoli, Robert P. Jewett, Herbert Friedman, Alan A. Chalem
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Patent number: 4718445Abstract: A position indicator for and method for applying the same to valve arrangements having a first strip attached to a first movable part and a second strip attached to a second stationary part of the valve arrangement. The strips have a line arranged down the middle with contrasting lines on either side for easy alignment of the indicator strips. The indicator strips are initially applied as a single strip to the first and second parts of the valve arrangement and then severed at a point between the first and second parts when the valve arrangement is in a known preferred position.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1986Date of Patent: January 12, 1988Assignee: General Signal CorporationInventors: Charles Lundberg, Anthony C. Summers
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Patent number: 4450023Abstract: A thermochromic composition suitable for coating heat-recoverable materials for cable enclosures. The composition contains an organic material which melts and decomposes at a certain temperature by trapping the decomposition products in the composition.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1981Date of Patent: May 22, 1984Assignee: N.V. Raychem S.A.Inventor: Francis J. A. M. C. De Blauwe
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Patent number: 4432462Abstract: A reliable and low cost indicator to be associated with a receptacle filled with dosage forms (e.g. over-the-counter drugs) and a corresponding method by which to quickly and easily warn a consumer that an unauthorized tampering may have occurred to the receptacle and the contents thereof. The tampering indicator is preferably either attached to or integrally formed with a seal at the underside of a removable receptacle cap. The tampering indicator comprises a fluid filled reservoir, a tab having a chemically treated indicator strip thereat, and a fluid path by which fluid from the reservoir communicates with the indicator strip. The indicator is engaged by the rim of the receptacle when the cap is positioned thereover by the dosage form manufacturer. Accordingly, fluid is forced from the reservoir into the fluid path. However, the fluid path is initially blocked at the engagement thereof by the receptacle rim.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 1982Date of Patent: February 21, 1984Inventor: Randall A. Newkirk
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Patent number: 4391662Abstract: In providing an adhesive connection or a seal using a thermoplastic adhesive for securing materials together, a thermochrome dye is added to the thermoplastic adhesive so that it provides a color change in the temperature range between the temperature where a satisfactory moistening effect is achieved and the temperature where the satisfactory moistening effect is no longer present.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 1981Date of Patent: July 5, 1983Assignee: Hilti AktiengesellschaftInventor: Peter Mauthe
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Patent number: 4382830Abstract: Method of constructing pneumatic tire where at least one of its elements is comprised of a heat-curable rubber composition, an improvement in which such composition is identified with a releasably attached identification tag containing an information-providing ink composition thereon, wherein the ink composition contains a heat activatable blowing agent. The invention further relates to the heat-curable rubber composition so-identified and also to the identification tag itself.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 1981Date of Patent: May 10, 1983Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber CompanyInventor: Alan E. Cohn
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Patent number: 4362645Abstract: Novel and stable compositions of matter are disclosed which change color sharply upon a transition from a liquid state to a solid state or from a solid state to a liquid state, which change of state is at substantially a predetermined temperature corresponding to a temperature to be measured.The constituents of the novel compositions of matter comprise:1. a solvent (I) consisting of a single substance or a mixture of substances and adapted to change from a solid state at substantially a predetermined temperature to a liquid state and2. an indicator system (II) consisting of one or more substances different from (I), characterized in that(a) (II) is soluble in (I) when the latter is in the liquid phase, and(b) (II) changes color visible to the naked eye when (I) passes from the solid to the liquid phase or from the liquid to the solid phase.Thermometers containing said stable compositions of matter are also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 1980Date of Patent: December 7, 1982Assignee: Akzona, Inc.Inventors: Craig R. Hof, Roy A. Ulin
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Patent number: 4309470Abstract: A method of binding floor dust and other particles in building rooms, corridors etc. by means of floor mats, where initially a number of test mats are placed on the floor, these mats being clean and white and apart from the color being of a material corresponding to utility mats of the dust binding type, i.e. rubber backed mats of a soft moisture absorbing material which is impregnated to be able to bind considerable amounts of dust, whereby after a suitable test period of time the miscoloring of the mats is inspected and it is decided, based on the geographic occurrence of the most dirty sub areas, where operational service or utility mats should be placed on the floor for maximum dust collection in selected sub areas only.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1979Date of Patent: January 5, 1982Inventor: Robert Neubert
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Patent number: 4300908Abstract: A method of determining the dosage of freeze-conditioning agents applied to coal, which method comprises the following steps:(1) treating the coal with a small amount of a freeze-conditioning agent containing a compatible fluorescent dye;(2) extracting the treated coal with a solvent for the freeze-release agent and determining the fluorescence of such extract;(3) extracting a similar treated coal sample to which a known amount of the freeze-conditioning agent has been further added and determining the fluorescence of this extract;(4) setting up a proportionality between the fluorescence values of extracts (2) and (3) with the corresponding dosages of freeze-conditioning agents and solving for the unknown dosage originally applied to the coal.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 1980Date of Patent: November 17, 1981Assignee: Nalco Chemical CompanyInventor: Roger W. Kugel