Operator For Retractable Sealing, Guiding Or Locking Strip Patents (Class 49/316)
  • Patent number: 11598570
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a refrigerator with improved productivity and quality by using a planar heater. The refrigerator includes a main body having a storage compartment, a door rotatably coupled to the body to open and close the storage compartment, and a planar heater installed on the door to prevent dew condensation from being generated on the door, wherein the planar heater is formed in a film form to be attached to the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2023
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Sung Il Kim, Myeong Ju Kim, Jeong Man Nam, Hyung Hee Moon, Jin Oh Seok
  • Patent number: 11480011
    Abstract: A movable wall panel system may include a bottom drop seal assembly that maintains a constant force relative to a floor portion of an environment through a damper. The movable wall panel system may include an automatic top seal assembly that seals a gap between the movable wall panel system and a ceiling of the environment. The moveable wall panel system may include multiple panels and a plurality of seals positioned between adjacent panels to seal a gap between the adjacent panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2022
    Assignee: Mondernfold, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad Jones, Aaron K. Alexander, Phil Middaugh, Mark J. McDonough, Adam Burke, Mike Beeler, Robert K. Schuyler, Phillip M. Watson, Matthew Puccio, Thomas L. Goldsmith, Bryan T. Welch
  • Patent number: 10570654
    Abstract: A solar-power-generation-type sliding window assembly for maintaining an electrical connection between a solar cellmounted to a sliding window and a battery charged by the power generated by the solar cell during normal operation regardless of the position of the sliding window is provided. The solar-power-generation-type sliding window assembly includes a sliding window that has a solar cell and configured to be opened or closed via sliding thereof. A window frame is fixed to an opening in a wall and supports the sliding window. A plurality of rollers are rotatably disposed in the sliding window and supports the movement of the sliding window inside the window frame. Additionally, a connection terminal is disposed on a selected roller among the rollers and electrically interconnects an output terminal of the solar cell disposed on the sliding window and a frame terminal disposed on the window frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2020
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Mi Yeon Song, Hae Yoon Jung, Eun Yeong Lee, Sang Hak Kim
  • Patent number: 10029778
    Abstract: The disclosed embodiments relate to an aircraft having an interior door with a compressible header. Accordingly to non-limiting embodiments, a slideable door panel includes an opening in a top portion thereof to receive a compressible header configured to reside in the opening of the slideable door panel. The compressible header includes a biasing mechanism configured to upwardly bias the compressible header against the headliner when closed. The compressible header is also configured to allow lateral movement of the compressible header within the opening. The compressibility of the compressible header and lateral movement resist the formation of gaps between the compressible header and the headliner during flight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2018
    Assignee: Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation
    Inventor: Robert J. Telmos
  • Publication number: 20150121761
    Abstract: There is provided a safety door having a rotary body hinged to a door frame and a slider overlapping with an end of the rotary body. The safety door includes a fastening portion provided on at least one surface of an overlapping region of the rotary body and the slider, thus preventing separation and deformation of the overlapping region and guiding a movement of the slider, and a stopper preventing the slider from being removed from the rotary body and fixing or restricting a position of the slider. The rotary body and the slider decrease a width of a door by an overlapping movement of a female guide groove and a male protrusion. The safety door further includes a resilient pad provided between the protrusion and the guide groove and supporting an impact generated by a reduction in the width of the door.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2012
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Ye Myung Lee, Min Jung Suh
  • Publication number: 20150121759
    Abstract: The invention relates to a door sealing system comprising a door seal (2, 3, 4) for sealing an upper and a lower side of a building door leaf (T), and an air channel (8, 8?, 70) which enables, when the door seal is in the sealing position, air to circulate from a longitudinal side of the door seal (2, 3, 4) to an opposite longitudinal side of the door seal (2, 3, 4). Said door sealing system also comprises at least one ventilator (7) which guides air through said air channel (8, 8?, 70). Said inventive door sealing system enables sufficient air to be exchanged even when the door is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2013
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventor: Andreas Dintheer
  • Patent number: 8992213
    Abstract: An apparatus for sealing a fan drive shaft in a vacuum heat treating furnace is disclosed. The sealing apparatus includes a housing having an annular body and a central opening. An inflatable first seal surrounds the central opening of the annular body. A second seal surrounds the central opening and is adjacent to the inflatable first seal. The sealing apparatus also includes a channel formed in the annular body adjacent to the second seal for conducting a purging fluid into the central opening. A means for injecting the purging fluid into the central opening is operably connected to the channel. A vacuum heat treating furnace and a fan drive system incorporating the sealing apparatus are also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: Ipsen, Inc.
    Inventors: Craig Moller, Werner Hendrik Grobler, Jake Hamid
  • Patent number: 8984812
    Abstract: In a shock-secure door or hatch arrangement on marine ships, a doorway frame, on two opposite longitudinal edges thereof, has continuous latching bars that are receivable in corresponding grooves in opposite edges of a door in order to latch the door in a closed position. The latching bar on the hinged edge of the doorway frame is stationary and engages into the associated door edge groove during a closing motion of the door. The latching bar on the opposite edge of the doorway frame is movable by actuating elements so as to engage into the respective associated door edge groove for latching the door in its closed position. A locking mechanism locks and unlocks the movable latching bar in its latched position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Rainer Karallus, Joerg Draeger, Wolfram Determann, Gerardo Salazar
  • Patent number: 8959837
    Abstract: A sliding panel system can include a sealing mechanism such that, when a panel is slid to a closed configuration, one or more seal elements form a seal between the door panel and its surroundings at the top, bottom, and/or sides of the panel to reduce or prevent infiltration or communication of gases or liquids such as air or water. Manual or motor driven movement of the panel can move an actuation mechanism to extend the seals around the panel. The sealing member can include weather stripping, brush or another seal element for sealing contact with a header, floor, door, frame, or other surface. Multiple panels can be arranged to form a door panel system or a window panel system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Assignee: John B. Higman and Valorie J. Higman
    Inventor: Eric David Hans
  • Publication number: 20150015133
    Abstract: A pivoting mullion for a temperature-controlled storage device is provided. The pivoting mullion includes a mullion body pivotally attached to a display case door of the temperature-controlled storage device. The mullion body is rotatable relative to the display case door between a first position when the display case door is open and a second position when the display case door is closed. The mullion body is configured to provide a support surface against which the display case door rests when the mullion body is in the second position and the display case door is closed. The pivoting mullion further includes a lighting element fixed to the mullion body and configured to activate when the display case door is closed. Activation of the lighting element illuminates items within the temperature-controlled storage device such that the items are visible through the display case door when the display case door is closed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2014
    Publication date: January 15, 2015
    Inventors: Frank J. Carbajal, Paul J. Artwohl, Jeffery W. Nicholson
  • Patent number: 8925249
    Abstract: A combined sealing system for connecting a panel to a frame includes a first active sealing system and a first passive seal. The first active sealing system engages a first surface of the panel or a first surface of the frame. The first passive seal engages a second surface of the panel and a second surface of the frame. Upon the panel being in a single closed position relative to the frame, the active sealing system has a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, and the active sealing system in the locked configuration causes the first passive seal to be further engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Tyto Life LLC
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D. Thielmann, Don S. Salerno
  • Patent number: 8745924
    Abstract: An automatic door bottom having a release mechanism is used on the bottom of a hinged door that is pivotable to be positioned over a sill when closed and includes a movable sealing member having a length corresponding to the width of the door and is housed in a channel mounted on the door. The sealing member is movable vertically downwardly into a sealing position in which the sealing member will contact the door sill when the door is closed. The release mechanism permits the sealing member to be moved upwardly even when the door is in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Zero International, Inc.
    Inventor: Adi Tshai
  • Publication number: 20140102005
    Abstract: A sliding panel system can include a sealing mechanism such that, when a panel is slid to a closed configuration, one or more seal elements form a seal between the door panel and its surroundings at the top, bottom, and/or sides of the panel to reduce or prevent infiltration or communication of gases or liquids such as air or water. Manual or motor driven movement of the panel can move an actuation mechanism to extend the seals around the panel. The sealing member can include weather stripping, brush or another seal element for sealing contact with a header, floor, door, frame, or other surface. Multiple panels can be arranged to form a door panel system or a window panel system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 26, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Applicant: John B. Higman and Valorie J. Higman; Trustees of the Higman Family Trust u/d/t as amended and resta
    Inventor: Eric David Hans
  • Publication number: 20140059933
    Abstract: A moveable wall panel system is disclosed. The movable wall panel system may include a bottom drop seal assembly that maintains a constant force relative to a floor portion of an environment through a damper. The movable wall panel system may include an automatic top seal assembly that seals a gap between the movable wall panel system and a ceiling of the environment without an actuation from an operator space of the environment, the top seal assembly being positioned above the operator space of the environment. The moveable wall panel system may include a plurality of seals positioned between adjacent panels to seal a gap between the adjacent panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Applicant: Modernfold, Inc.
    Inventors: Brad Jones, Aaron Alexander, Phil Middaugh, Mark McDonough, Adam Burke, Mike Beeler, Robert K. Schuyler, Philip M. Watston, Matthew Puccio, Thomas L. Goldsmith, Bryan T. Welch
  • Patent number: 8631606
    Abstract: A sliding door system can include a tiltable sealing mechanism such that, when a door panel is slid to a closed configuration, one or more seal elements form a seal between the door panel and its surroundings at the top, bottom, and/or sides of the door to reduce or prevent infiltration or communication of gases or liquids such as air or water. Manual or motor driven movement of the panel can move an actuation mechanism to extend the seals around the door. The sealing member can include weather stripping, brush or another seal element for sealing contact with a header, floor, door, frame, or other surface. Multiple door panels can be arranged to form a door panel system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: John B. Higman and Valorie J. Higman
    Inventor: Eric David Hans
  • Patent number: 8627606
    Abstract: A combined sealing system comprises a frame, a panel, a first sealing system, a second sealing system, and a third sealing system. The panel is within and movable, relative to the frame, between at least an open position and a completely closed position, and the panel includes a plurality of subpanels hinged relative to one another. The first sealing system is configured to engage a sill rail of the panel with a sill of the frame. The second sealing system is configured to engage a stile rail of the panel with a jamb of the frame. The third sealing system is configured to engage a meeting rail of the first panel with a header of the frame. In the closed position, the first and second sealing systems movable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Tyto Life LLC
    Inventors: Don S. Salerno, W. Kip Speyer
  • Patent number: 8561351
    Abstract: A solid skirt seal mounted to the bottom edge of a slide-glide door panel hinged to rotate about an axis generally parallel to the bottom edge of the door panel, a spring biasing the hinged skirt seal to rotate the lower edge of the skirt seal in a downward direction, and a flexible cover extending between the lower edge of the skirt seal and the lower edge of the door panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Wabtec Holding Corp.
    Inventors: Peter Heidrich, David C. Griffis
  • Patent number: 8539717
    Abstract: A combined active sealing system for connecting a panel to a frame of a door/window comprises a plurality of active sealing systems, a seal activation system, and an electronic control system. Each of the plurality of active sealing systems includes an anchor for engaging one of the panel and the frame, and an actuator connected to the anchor and for driving the anchor. In a closed position of the panel relative to the frame, the anchor is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The seal activation system is connected to at least one of the actuators of the plurality of active sealing systems. The electronic control system controls the seal activation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: Secura-Seal Technologies LLC
    Inventors: W. Kip Speyer, Jonathan D. Thielmann, Mark O. Gerwig
  • Patent number: 8484899
    Abstract: A combination sealing system includes a driving sealing system, a driven sealing system, and a drive system. The driving sealing system includes a tongue attached to and extending away from a sash of a first panel, and a receiver attached to and within a frame. The driven sealing system includes a rotational member connected to a meeting rail of a second panel, and a first catch connected to a meeting rail of the first panel. The drive system is attached to the receiver and the rotational member. The first catch is configured to engage the rotational member. The receiver is configured to receive the tongue. The first panel is movable between an open position and a completely closed position. Prior to the first panel being in the completely closed position, the drive system transfer motion within the drive sealing system to the driven sealing system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: Tyto Life LLC
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Bryan D. Dervarics, Don S. Salerno
  • Patent number: 8484900
    Abstract: A system for controlling an access opening in a vehicle body includes first and second doors arranged to selectively open and close first and second portions of the opening. The system also includes a device operatively connected to the first door and configured to be selectively retracted before at least one of the first and second doors is opened. The device is also configured to be protracted when the first and second doors are closed to thereby seal the first and second portions of the access opening. The system additionally includes a controller configured to selectively retract and protract the device. Furthermore, the system includes a sensor arranged on the vehicle and configured to detect an impact exceeding a threshold intensity on the body and communicate a signal indicative of the impact to the controller. The controller retracts the device upon receipt of the signal from the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Scott P. Charnesky, James S. Netherland, III, Graham J. Spence
  • Patent number: 8468746
    Abstract: A sealing system for connecting a panel to a frame comprises a plurality of pins extending from the frame; a movable member, within the frame, including a plurality of slots; and a first seal drive system connected to the movable member. In a closed position of the panel relative to the frame, the movable member is movable between a first, unlocked position and a second, locked position, and individual ones of the plurality of pins extending through individual ones of the plurality of slots.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: Tyto Life LLC
    Inventor: Don S. Salerno
  • Patent number: 8464467
    Abstract: A sash for sliding doors or windows includes: a main body (1) including an insulating chamber (2) located between respective glazing panels (3, 4) whose dimensions are larger than the dimensions of the chamber, so as to form a perimetric housing (5) which is open towards the outside; three rigid profiles (6) forming a frame inside three respective sides of the main body being stably accommodated in the housing; the rigid profiles forming an accessory zone, open to the outside; the three rigid profiles each forming a channel (11) accommodating a rod (8) for operating elements which drive and/or open and close the sash (100); the three rigid profiles forming one upright (103) and two crosspieces (6m, 105) of the sash; the ends of the profiles are joined by an angled element (12), so that the channel (11) runs uninterruptedly along the three sides of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignee: GSG International S.p.A.
    Inventor: Marco Lambertini
  • Patent number: 8381445
    Abstract: A sliding door system 11 can include a sealing mechanism 40 such that, when a door panel 10, 10a is slid to a closed configuration 100, one ore more seal elements 42 are extended to form a seal between the door panel 10, 10a and it surroundings at the bottom, top and/or sides of the door to reduce or prevent infiltration of gases or liquids such as air or water. Manual or motor driven movement of the door panel 10, 10a can automatically move an actuation mechanism 50, 50a to extend the seals around the door. The sealing member 40 can include weather stripping, brush or another seal element 42 that is extended into sealing contact with a floor 6 or other surface. Multiple door panels 10, 10a including the sealing system can be arranged to form a door panel system 11.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: John B. Higman and Valorie J. Higman
    Inventor: Eric David Hans
  • Patent number: 8336258
    Abstract: A combined sealing system for connecting a first panel having a sash to a frame includes first, second, and third sealing systems. The first panel is within and movable relative to the frame, comprising: The first sealing system is configured to engage a first portion of the sash with a first portion of the frame. The second sealing system is configured to engage a second portion of the sash with a second portion of the frame. The third sealing system is configured to engage a meeting rail of the first panel with a meeting rail of a second panel within the frame. The first panel is movable between at least an open position and a completely closed position. Prior to the first panel being in the completely closed position, engagement of the first sealing system begins and drives engagement of at least one of the second and third sealing systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Secura-Seal Technologies LLC
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D. Thielmann, Bryan D. Dervarics, Don S. Solerno, Robby A. Marsh
  • Patent number: 8328268
    Abstract: A system controlling an access opening in a body of a vehicle includes a door arranged to selectively open and close a first portion of the opening. A latch is mounted on the door for latching the door to the body and releasing the door to selectively open and close the first portion of the opening. A device is mounted on the door and is configured to be retracted by an actuator before the door is opened and to be protracted by the actuator when the door is closed. A detent is mounted on the device to latch the device to the door when the device is protracted and to release the device before the device is retracted. A motor is mounted on the first door and is configured to operate at least two of the latch, the detent, and the actuator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Scott P. Charnesky, Jeffrey L. Konchan
  • Patent number: 8191314
    Abstract: A door including a main frame, a wing and a sealing apparatus which is interposed between main frame and wing when the door is in the closed condition. The sealing apparatus including a gasket extending along the main frame and a movable sealing member supported by the main frame, and exerting a compressive force on the gasket against the wing when the door is in the closed condition. An operating device moves the movable sealing member between an activated position, in which the movable member exerts the compressive force on the gasket, and a disabled condition, in which the movable member removes the compressive force from the gasket. The movable sealing member comprises a sealing counter-frame which extends along the whole perimeter of the main frame and is movable with respect to the wing when the door is in the closed condition, in a direction perpendicular to the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2012
    Assignee: Opacmare S.p.A.
    Inventor: Michele Grimaldi
  • Patent number: 8109037
    Abstract: A combined sealing system for connecting a first panel to a frame includes a first, second, and third active sealing systems. The first active sealing system engages a sill rail of the first panel with a sill of the frame. The second active sealing system engages a meeting rail of the first panel with a meeting rail of a second panel within the frame. The third active sealing system engages a stile rail of the sash with a jamb of the frame. Upon the first panel being in a closed position relative to the frame, each of the first, second, and third active sealing systems having a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Secura-Seal Technologies LLC
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D. Thielmann, Don S. Solerno
  • Patent number: 8091282
    Abstract: A combination sealing system and seal activation system for use with a combination of a panel and a frame includes a first sealing system and a first seal activation system for activating the first sealing system. The first sealing system is positioned within the frame, and the first seal activation system is positioned within panel and includes a movable member configured to engage the first sealing system. The first sealing system includes a movable member. The movable member of the first sealing system is caused to move towards the panel to form a seal between the panel and the frame when the movable member of the first seal activation system moves towards the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Secura-Seal Technologies LLC
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D Thielmann, Robert E Pruss
  • Patent number: 8074399
    Abstract: A modular sealing and seal activation system for use with a combination of a panel and a frame includes a plurality of sealing system modules and a seal activation system. The plurality of sealing system modules are disposed within the frame and are removably attachable to the frame. Each of the sealing system modules is movable between a disengaged configuration and an engaged configuration. The seal activation system is connected to at least one of the sealing system modules, and the seal activation system moves the at least one of the sealing system modules between the engaged configuration and the disengaged configuration. The plurality of sealing system modules are substantially, identically sized, and the seals, in combination, are formed substantially, completely around the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Secura-Seal Technologies LLC
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D. Thielmann, Robby A. Marsh
  • Patent number: 8074400
    Abstract: A combination sealing system and seal activation system for use with a combination of a panel and a frame includes a plurality of sealing systems and a seal activation systems. Each of the sealing systems include an anchor, at least one movable member, and an actuator. The anchor engages one of the panel and the frame, and the anchor movable from a first position to a second position towards the panel. The at least one movable member is positioned in an other of the panel and the frame and moves the anchor between the first position and the second position. The actuator is connected to the at least one movable member and drives the at least one movable member. The seal activation system is connected to each of the actuators of the plurality of sealing systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Secura-Seal Technologies LLC
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D. Thielmann, Robby A. Marsh
  • Patent number: 8033068
    Abstract: Mobile partitioning wall with several wall elements displaceably suspended in running rails. The mobile partitioning wall have structural units that are technically simple to manufacture and to mount and are structured to be universally usable and can be easily and variably disposed at the edge sides of individual wall elements. The wall elements have mounting elements that are horizontally and/or vertically disposed at the edge sides. Modular structural units are laterally insertable into the mounting elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: Dorma GmbH + Co. KG
    Inventors: Olaf Lüttmann, Harald Hoopmann
  • Publication number: 20110107674
    Abstract: A device (100) for closing a room opening includes a frame (102), at least one leaf (104), a deformable and/or moveable sealing member (114) and a sealing member actuation device (120). The frame (102) is adapted to be set in a reveal of a room opening, the leaf (104) being movably arranged relative to the frame (102) so as to move relative to the frame from an open to a closed position in which there nonetheless exists between the frame (102) and the leaf (104) a gap (112). The sealing member (114) is disposed at least substantially within the gap (112). The sealing member (114), when not pressurized, does not drag against an adjacent component of the device which is moving relative thereto when the room opening is opened or closed. The sealing member (114) is actuated by the actuation device (120) when the device is in a position suitable for actuation of the sealing member (114) so as to better ensure that the sealing member (114) does not drag against the adjacent component until desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventor: Heinz SAUTER
  • Publication number: 20110023366
    Abstract: A vertically collapsible weather resistant barrier for an opening, having a plurality of side frames secured along the height of side walls and/or an intermediate post defining the opening. Each side frame has a longitudinal channel along its length facing inward toward the opening. The channel accommodates sheaves extending from the barrier and by which a ceiling mounted pulley system may house and lower the barrier with the side frame. The barrier comprises a plurality of pantograph structures at opposite ends of a plurality of panels. The arms of the pantograph structure closest to the side walls house a locking mechanism thereon facing the side frame at either end of the arm that engages a latch in and a proximate arm to pull them into tight vertical alignment when substantially fully extended.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 30, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Applicant: Railquip Enterprises Inc.
    Inventors: Mark McDonald, Jack Zagorski, Chet Lok
  • Patent number: 7685776
    Abstract: A sealing system connects a panel to a frame and includes an anchor and a pair of opposing docking collars. The anchor extends from the frame or panel, and the opposing docking collars are disposed within a guide portion in the other of the frame or panel. The sealing system has an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the panel moves relative to the frame along a plane substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the anchor. In the locked configuration, the anchor is positioned between the docking collars, and the anchor is engaged by the docking collars to prevent movement of the panel relative to the frame along the plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Speyer Door and Window, Inc.
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D. Thielmann, Robert E. Pruss
  • Patent number: 7685775
    Abstract: A combined sealing system for connecting a panel to a frame includes a first sealing system and a second sealing system. The first sealing system connects a first surface of the panel to a first surface of the frame, and the second sealing system connects a second surface of the panel to a second surface of the frame. The combined sealing system has an unlocked configuration and a locked configuration. In the unlocked configuration, the panel moves relative to the frame along a plane substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the first or second surfaces of the frame. In the locked configuration, each of the first and second sealing systems separately prevent movement of the panel relative to the frame along the plane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: Speyer Door and Window, Inc.
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D. Thielmann, Robert E. Pruss
  • Patent number: 7627987
    Abstract: A combined sealing system and seal activation system for use with a double door/window system having a first panel and a second panel includes a first sealing system and a first seal activation system. The first sealing system is positioned within a meeting stile of the first panel, and the first seal activation system activates the first sealing system. The first sealing activation system is also positioned within a meeting stile of the second panel and includes a movable member configured to engage the first sealing system. The first sealing system includes a movable member, and movable member of the first sealing system is caused to move towards the second panel by the first sealing system being engaged by the movable member of the first seal activation system moving towards the first panel. The first panel and the second panel separately pivot relative to a frame surrounding the double door/window system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Assignee: Speyer Door and Window, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan D Thielmann, Robert E Pruss
  • Patent number: 7624539
    Abstract: A combined sealing system for connecting a panel to a frame includes a first sealing system and a second sealing system. The panel pivots relative to the frame. The first sealing system connects a first surface of the panel to a first surface of the frame, and the second sealing system connects a second surface of the panel to a second surface of the frame. The first surface of the panel is different than the second surface of the panel, and the first and second sealing systems have a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration upon the panel being positioned within the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Assignee: Speyer Door and Window, Inc.
    Inventors: William Kip Speyer, Jonathan D Thielmann
  • Publication number: 20090145062
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a door panel preferably for a sliding door assembly. The door panel includes an inner frame and a sheet stock substantially covering the inner frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: RYTEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Walenty Kalempa, Arno Klein, David Slomski
  • Publication number: 20090145033
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a door panel preferably for a sliding door assembly. The door panel includes an inner frame and a sheet stock substantially covering the inner frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 11, 2009
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Applicant: RYTEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Walenty Kalempa, Arno Klein, David Slomski
  • Publication number: 20090077895
    Abstract: This invention relates to automatic door bottom with a release mechanism for a hinged door which is pivotable to be positioned over a sill when closed, a sealing member having a length corresponding to the length of the channel, the sealing member being housed in the channel of said and being movable vertically downwardly into a sealing position in which the sealing member will contact the sill when the door is closed, alternatively said sealing member may be manually moved upwardly even when the door is in the closed position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventor: Adi Tshai
  • Patent number: 7487616
    Abstract: A sealing gasket that provides a seal between two members. The gasket includes a base at one end of the gasket and a gutter-forming surface at the opposite other end of the gasket. There is a pair of sides that join the one end and the opposite other end of the gasket. The sealing gasket is movable between a compressed condition wherein the gasket provides a seal between the two members and an uncompressed condition wherein the gasket does not provide a seal between the two members. When the gasket is in the compressed condition, the gutter-forming surface deforms to form a gutter along the one end of the gasket.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Central Sales & Service, Inc.
    Inventor: Ralph A. Deaver
  • Publication number: 20090007492
    Abstract: The invention relates to a releasable fastening system (10) including a tongue (20) moveable along a first path between a locking position and an unlocking position, and a shuttle (24) moveable along a second path at an angle to the first path. The shuttle (24) is adapted to be moved along the second path by a material adapted to contract when activated. The releasable fastening system (10) also includes a means linking the tongue (20) and the shuttle (24) such that movement of the shuttle (24) along the second path is adapted to cause movement of the tongue (20) along the first path. The invention further relates to a releasable fastening system (50) for releasably fastening a first element (44) to a second element (46). The releasable fastening system (50) includes a first fastening means (56) for the first element (44) and a second fastening means (62, 66) for the second element (46).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2006
    Publication date: January 8, 2009
    Inventors: Dickory Rudduck, Lee David Blattmann
  • Publication number: 20080209812
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved gasket for a French door type refrigerator including a rotating mullion. The improved gasket reduces condensation around the area at the top and bottom of the rotating mullion and the gap between the mullion and cabinet. The gaskets located on the inner periphery of die doors are provided with tabs to seal the gap. An additional magnetic element is provided on the tabs to improve sealing and the thermal properties of the tab seals to alleviate the formation of condensate in this critical area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2008
    Publication date: September 4, 2008
    Inventors: ARNAUD LANCRY, ADRIAN SARGEANT, SIMON ALBRECHT
  • Patent number: 7320496
    Abstract: A sealing arrangement for a door of a transit vehicle with an angularly disposed floor portion incorporates a rotatably disposed driving member in combination with a driven member attached to the sealing arrangement to enable vertical movement thereof for providing a weather seal when the door is closed and accommodating the angularly disposed floor portion when the door is open and the door is disposed within the transit vehicle and above the floor portion. An inner and outer cover may be provided at the bottom edge of the door for esthetic purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2008
    Assignee: Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: David C. Griffis, Wieslaw W. Tomczyk, Fotios Golemis
  • Patent number: 7143546
    Abstract: A sealing arrangement for a door of a transit vehicle with an angularly disposed floor portion incorporates a rotatably disposed driving member in combination with a driven member attached to the sealing arrangement to enable vertical movement thereof for providing a weather seal when the door is closed and accommodating the angularly disposed floor portion when the door is open and the door is disposed within the transit vehicle and above the floor portion. An inner and outer cover may be provided at the bottom edge of the door for esthetic purposes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation
    Inventors: David C. Griffis, Wieslaw W. Tomczyk, Fotios Golemis
  • Patent number: 7124538
    Abstract: A doorway assembly, preferably for a sliding door, includes a barrier plate extending across the lower portion of the doorway to prevent the intrusion of water during severe weather conditions. A notch within the barrier plate, provides a substantially obstruction-free passageway through the doorway and, is sealed by compressing a compressible gasket, attached to a compression panel mounted to move with the sliding door, against the barrier plate. An actuator is structured to move the compression panel toward the barrier plate in response to operation of a latch lever, thereby compressing the compressible gasket and providing a seal between the compression panel and the barrier plate adjacent the notch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2006
    Inventor: C. Walter Kline
  • Patent number: 7008032
    Abstract: A refrigerator includes French-style doors and a rotating mullion. The rotating mullion is mounted to one of the French-style doors through first and second hinge members. Each of the first and second hinge members include first and second hinge elements having corresponding cam members. The cam members include multiple lobes and extend about hinge pins that define an axis of rotation for the mullion. The multiple lobes actually define first and second detent positions for the rotating mullion. A spring biases the first cam member against the second cam member so that the rotating mullion is positively maintained in either the first or second position. The mullion is formed from mating halves, each including a portion of an integrally formed pin element. The pin element travels within a guide element to automatically rotate the mullion between the first and second positions during use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Maytag Corporation
    Inventors: Raymond J. Chekal, Richard Allan Kirchner, Jeffrey Michael O'Halloran, Chad Jonathan Rotter, Greg A. Scorpil, Jack J. Standefer, David Allen Stauffer
  • Patent number: 6945540
    Abstract: The invention relates to a sealing connecting element, a sealing end piece and a seal. In practice different seals are known which are produced as three dimensional structures and then given to the customer. The production, wherein profile strips are ready-made by cutting and adhesion to form the three dimensional structures or wherein the three dimensional structure is obtained by means of corner injection molding, is very costly. In order to simplify the production of seals, it is provided in accordance with the invention that sealing connecting elements and/or sealing end pieces are to be produced as separate molded parts made of a thermoplastic elastomer and these molded parts to be connected, shortly before the installation of a seal, to sealing profile strips to form a complete seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Meteor Gummiwerke K.H. Badje GmbH & Co.
    Inventors: Josef Bormann, Gero Wedderkopf
  • Patent number: 6378250
    Abstract: A door guard is provided. The door guard includes a pair of positioning seats of symmetrical configuration secured to a door above the bottom of the door and a door guard releasably disposed to the positioning seats. The door guard has an upper plate made of flexible material and a lower plate made of web and connected by a connection plate. It is characterized in that the door guard may put upside-down to cope with the changing of the seasons in order to prevent the insects or the sandy wind from entering into the house.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Chin-Pei Yen
  • Patent number: 6009669
    Abstract: An aircraft door adapted to substantially seal with a door frame. The aircraft door is provided with an edge portion which is formed to engage the door frame. The edge portion has a sealed position wherein the edge portion is engaged with the door frame. The edge portion further has an unsealed position wherein the edge portion is spaced from the door frame. The aircraft door is further provided with a substantially rigid door body and an elastic portion interposed between the door body and the edge portion. The elastic portion is selectively expandable and compressible for permitting movement of the edge portion between the sealed and unsealed positions. The aircraft door is further provided with an actuator device which mechanically couples the door body with the edge portion for selectively moving the edge portion between the sealed and unsealed positions. The actuator device comprises a shape memory metal material having a predetermined transition temperature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Northrop Grumman Corporation
    Inventors: Andrew Peter Jardine, Heinrich Gerhardt, Arun Robert Palusamy, Raymond David Gomez