Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100205737 | COLLAPSING COT - A collapsible cot with support legs that folds under the cot. This allows the cot support fabric to be attached at the ends of the support rails and keep the support fabric tight. This eliminates the need to have and extra support bar across the front and back of the cot. | 08-19-2010 |
20110000017 | COLLAPSING COT - A collapsible cot with support legs that fold under the cot. This allows the cot support fabric to be attached at the ends of the support rails and keep the support fabric tight. This eliminates the need to have and extra support bar across the front and back of the cot. | 01-06-2011 |
20130032605 | HYDRATION MANIFOLD - Embodiments of the apparatus is a personal hydration apparatus comprising a drink manifold with a receptor configured such that a water tight seal can form between a threaded bottle and the receptor. A check valve is coupled to the drink manifold configure to allow air into manifold and a first tube coupled to the manifold that is configured to allow liquid to be drawn from the threaded bottle. The hydration manifold allows an individual the convenience of using a conventional bottle filled with liquid in a hydration system accessible through a hose. | 02-07-2013 |
20140096844 | HYDRATION MANIFOLD WITH FLOW DIVIDER - Embodiments of the apparatus is a personal hydration apparatus comprising a drink manifold with a receptor configured such that a water tight seal can form between a threaded bottle and the receptor. A check valve is coupled to the drink manifold configure to allow air into manifold and a first tube coupled to the manifold that is configured to allow liquid to be drawn from the threaded bottle. The hydration manifold allows an individual the convenience of using a conventional bottle filled with liquid in a hydration system accessible through a hose. | 04-10-2014 |
20140096845 | HYDRATION MANIFOLD WITH ADJUSTABLE CHECK VALVE - Embodiments of the apparatus is a personal hydration apparatus comprising a drink manifold with a receptor configured such that a water tight seal can form between a threaded bottle and the receptor. A check valve is coupled to the drink manifold configure to allow air into manifold and a first tube coupled to the manifold that is configured to allow liquid to be drawn from the threaded bottle. The hydration manifold allows an individual the convenience of using a conventional bottle filled with liquid in a hydration system accessible through a hose. | 04-10-2014 |
20140096846 | PRESSURIZED HYDRATION MANIFOLD - Embodiments of the apparatus is a personal hydration apparatus comprising a drink manifold with a receptor configured such that a water tight seal can form between a threaded bottle and the receptor. A check valve is coupled to the drink manifold configure to allow air into manifold and a first tube coupled to the manifold that is configured to allow liquid to be drawn from the threaded bottle. The hydration manifold allows an individual the convenience of using a conventional bottle filled with liquid in a hydration system accessible through a hose. | 04-10-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090281499 | SLEEVED CLIP SAFETY - The present invention relates to a safety clip device for shielding and retaining a tip of an introducer needle following insertion of a vascular catheter. The safety clip device includes a sleeve having an interlock system for locking together the sleeve and the catheter adapter. The sleeve houses a safety clip wherein a portion of the introducer needle extends through the safety clip and is pinched between arm portions of the safety clip. As the tip of the introducer needle is withdrawn from the catheter adapter, the tip of the introducer needle is retained in the safety clip, whereafter the safety clip is retained within the sleeve and the sleeve is released from the catheter adapter for safe disposal. | 11-12-2009 |
20090287167 | Y-PORT DEVICE ELIMINATING ABBERANT CURRENTS - A y-port device including a valve positioned proximally to the fluid channel thereby eliminating aberrant currents and dead space within the y-port device. The valve is a septum and penetrable by a probe. The valve is positioned such that the external end may be cleaned and/or sanitized prior to penetration by a probe and the internal end abuts the fluid channel of the device such that dead space is eliminated between the flow path and the internal end of the valve. The y-port device ensures that an entire infused bolus is flushed from the interior of the y-port and into the desired vascular system. | 11-19-2009 |
20090292243 | NEEDLE SAFETY DEFLECTION DEVICE - An apparatus to automatically secure an end of a needle after contact with a blood vessel. The apparatus may include a housing and a biasing member, where the housing includes a hollow interior region extending between a proximal end and a distal end thereof. A proximal opening may be integrated into the proximal end, while a distal opening may be integrated into the distal end. The proximal and distal openings may be configured to receive a needle therethrough along a longitudinal axis. The biasing member may be coupled to the housing and configured to apply a force to the needle. The force may be oriented to displace the needle relative to the longitudinal axis upon retracting an end of the needle through the distal opening into the hollow interior region. Embodiments of the present invention may thus secure the end of the needle within the hollow interior region after use to prevent accidental needle sticks and exposure to blood and blood-borne pathogens. | 11-26-2009 |
20110011149 | METHODS TO PROVIDE A FEATURE ON A NEEDLE - A gripping surface is provided on an outer surface of a needle shield as incorporated into an intravenous catheter assembly. The gripping surface provides a gripping position nearer the catheter adapter, catheter and needle tip for improved balance and control of the catheter assembly during insertion of the catheter. Additionally, the gripping surfaces include a guard feature to prevent a user's unintended contact with various components of the catheter assembly whereby the contact may result in an undesirable “over the bevel” condition. | 01-20-2011 |
20110213340 | SEPARATABLE INFUSION SET WITH CLEANABLE INTERFACE AND STRAIGHT LINE ATTACHMENT - Infusion sets for insertion into an insertion site for preventing misalignment of the base and cap or fluid connector by providing one or more alignment features between each, and in alternative embodiments, provide one or more features to secure the cap or fluid connector to the base in anyone of a number of rotational positions and having release features to allow the cap or fluid connector to be rotatable with respect to the base portion of the infusion set, and yet easily removed and inserted. Further embodiments provide infusion sets wherein the user can easily see the insertion site of the catheter and the skin, to determine if infections have occurred at an earlier stage than was possible using prior art infusion sets and with substantially less difficulty. | 09-01-2011 |
20120016265 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING A BLOOD SAMPLE - A vent plug is disclosed that includes a body having a distal end, a proximal end, and a lumen extending through the distal and proximal ends. A membrane is disposed across the lumen, the membrane being hydrophobic and air permeable. A fluid chamber is formed within the lumen distal the membrane. A distal lumen opening being shaped and sized to retain blood within the lumen until the internal pressure of the lumen increases in response the a finger pressing against a proximal lumen opening. | 01-19-2012 |
20120222468 | ATTACHMENT DEVICE FOR IDENTIFYING CONSTITUENTS WITHIN A FLUID - An attachment device for identifying one or more constituents within a fluid includes a first end configured to selectively attach to an opening of a container of holding a fluid, and a sensor coupled to the attachment body. The sensor further includes one or more sensor elements positioned to detect and analyze a fluid within the container. The sensor is further configured to perform one or more tests on the fluid, wherein the one or more tests are useful in identifying one or more constituents within the fluid. | 09-06-2012 |
20120226446 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MONITORING THE USE OF MEDICATIONS - Systems and methods for monitoring the use of a fluid over the lifecycle of the fluid, said systems including a plurality of fluid identification stations, each station having one or more sensors to detect and identify a parameter of a fluid, wherein a each station is operably interconnected thereby permitting each station to access and verify the identity of a fluid as determined by each independent fluid identification station. | 09-06-2012 |
20120226447 | SMART MEDICATION WASTE DISPOSAL - A system for recording the wasting of fluids includes a waste disposal unit and a sensor system, having a sensor. The sensor can have one or more sensor elements in fluid communication with a fluid as it is wasted from a container into the waste disposal unit. The sensor system is configured to identify one or more drugs within the fluid and record the identity of the one or more drugs in a computer-readable medium electrically coupled to the sensor system. | 09-06-2012 |
20130150791 | ADHESIVE BACKED IV CATHETER WITH AUTO RELEASE LINER - Intravenous catheter devices are provided which may include one or more adhesive portions which are positioned and configured to temporarily maintain a position of a catheter assembly following catheterization. A release liner covering and protecting the adhesive portions may be automatically removed to reveal the adhesive upon withdrawal of an introducer needle of the catheter assembly. The adhesive may be configured such that a clinician may insert the catheter assembly into the patient, adjust the catheter adapter of the catheter assembly to a desired position, withdraw the introducer needle, thereby removing a protective, non-adhesive release liner from the adhesive of the positioned catheter assembly, thereby temporarily fixing the position of the catheter assembly at the desired position by contacting the exposed adhesive to the skin of the patient. | 06-13-2013 |
20130150796 | FOLDABLE IV CATHETER SECUREMENT DRESSING FOR PROTECTING AGAINST INADVERTENT CONTAMINATION - Sterile intravenous catheter securements and securement dressings that provide simpler, more effective, and lower risk intravenous catheter placement and securement in a patient are described. Catheter securement dressings may include one or more adhesive portions positioned and configured to maintain a position of a catheter assembly following catheterization. Catheter securement dressings may be secured to a patient with an adhesive portion, and the catheter assembly may then be placed into the patient through an access opening in the catheter securement dressing. Portions of catheter securement dressings may then by folded over and adhered to each other and portions of the catheter assembly to secure the catheter assembly to the patient. | 06-13-2013 |
20130310751 | OVER-THE-NEEDLE INTRAVENOUS CATHETER ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED INTRAVENOUS TUBING - An intravenous catheter device is provided which includes a catheter adapter having a fluid chamber, a needle adapter being slidably positioned within the fluid chamber, the needle adapter supporting a base of an introducer needle and a terminal end of a section of intravenous tubing such that a fluid pathway of the introducer needle is in fluid communication with a fluid pathway of the section of intravenous tubing. Following catheterization, the needle adapter is slid to a preferred proximal position whereby a sharpened tip of the introducer needle is shielded within a catheter of the intravenous catheter device, or a portion of the fluid chamber of the catheter adapter. When in the preferred proximal position, fluid communication between the catheter and a section of intravenous tubing is facilitated via the hollow body of the introducer needle. | 11-21-2013 |
20140128814 | CATHETER SECUREMENT VIA INTEGRATED SECUREMENT STRIPS - An intravenous catheter device is provided which includes an integrated adhesive strip whereby to secure the catheter adapter to the skin of a patient following catheterization. Some aspects of the present invention further comprise an adhesive strap that is coupled to the catheter adapter of a catheter assembly. One end of the adhesive strap is removed from the catheter adapter and wrapped around a body part or surface of the patient, and secured back to the catheter adapter. Thus, the catheter assembly is secured to the patient via the adhesive strap. | 05-08-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100050232 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 02-25-2010 |
20110282977 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 11-17-2011 |
20110283273 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 11-17-2011 |
20120215899 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 08-23-2012 |
20120297035 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 11-22-2012 |
20140012964 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 01-09-2014 |
20140379876 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 12-25-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100110416 | MEASURING HEMATOCRIT AND ESTIMATING HEMOGLOBIN VALUES WITH A NON-INVASIVE, OPTICAL BLOOD MONITORING SYSTEM - An optical blood monitoring system with a ratiometric model determines hematocrit values for a hemodialysis patient, from which hemoglobin values for the patient are estimated. The ratiometric model is calibrated, normally against a cell counter, using blood from a blood bank. The blood from a blood bank is preserved in a long term preservative which is typically different than that found in clinical settings. The hematocrit value determined by the ratiometric model is scaled by scaling factor so that the estimated hemoglobin level output from the monitor consistently matches that measured in a clinical setting. The hematocrit scaling factor is substantially about 1.033 when the patient's blood sample is stored in a short term preservative ethylene diamine tetra acetic, and is substantially about 1.06 when the hematocrit is measured in the blood sample without preservative being added to the blood sample. The hemoglobin value can also be adjusted for altitude. | 05-06-2010 |
20100113891 | HEMODIALYSIS PATIENT DATA ACQUISITION, MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS SYSTEM - A hemodialysis patient data acquisition and management system resides on a host computer which receives information from one or more non-invasive, optical blood monitors associated with a hemodialysis system. When a patient is undergoing hemodialysis treatment, a sensor assembly monitors the patient's blood flowing through the hemodialysis system and a controller for the blood monitor generates data which includes at least an identification code for the patient undergoing the treatment on the respective system, and non-invasively determined blood data taken at the onset of the scheduled treatment, such as initial Hgb, HCT, and SAT values. A host computer communicates with the one or more optical blood monitors, preferably via a wireless network, and the patient's session commencement data is downloaded to the host computer. The host computer includes a patient database containing historical session commencement data for a plurality of patients, as well as screen displays for displaying historical data for individual patients, such as Hgb trends. The system also preferably provides a predictive algorithm for the patient's Hgb at the patient's next scheduled hemodialysis treatment session. The preferred system also includes software that provides a recommended dose of the anemia management drug for the patient. | 05-06-2010 |
20120136582 | MEASURING HEMATOCRIT AND ESTIMATING HEMOGLOBIN VALUES WITH A NON-INVASIVE, OPTICAL BLOOD MONITORING SYSTEM - An optical blood monitoring system with a ratiometric model determines hematocrit values for a hemodialysis patient, from which hemoglobin values for the patient are estimated. The ratiometric model is calibrated, normally against a cell counter, using blood from a blood bank. The blood from a blood bank is preserved in a long term preservative which is typically different than that found in clinical settings. The hematocrit value determined by the ratiometric model is scaled by scaling factor so that the estimated hemoglobin level output from the monitor consistently matches that measured in a clinical setting. The hematocrit scaling factor is substantially about 1.033 when the patient's blood sample is stored in a short term preservative ethylene diamine tetra acetic, and is substantially about 1.06 when the hematocrit is measured in the blood sample without preservative being added to the blood sample. The hemoglobin value can also be adjusted for altitude. | 05-31-2012 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090200855 | Manually Rotatable Tool - In one aspect of the present invention, a tool assembly comprises a rotary portion and a stationary portion. The rotary portion comprises a bolster bonded to a diamond symmetric, substantially conically shaped tip. The stationary portion comprises a block mounted to a driving mechanism. A compressible element is disposed intermediate and in mechanical contact with both the rotary and stationary portions. The compressible element is compressed sufficiently to restrict free rotation during a degradation operation. | 08-13-2009 |
20090200857 | Manually Rotatable Tool - In one aspect of the present invention, a tool assembly comprises a rotary portion and a stationary portion. The rotary portion comprises a bolster bonded to a diamond symmetric, substantially conically shaped tip. The stationary portion comprises a block mounted to a driving mechanism. A compressible element is disposed intermediate and in mechanical contact with both the rotary and stationary portions. The compressible element is compressed sufficiently to restrict free rotation during a degradation operation. | 08-13-2009 |
20110254348 | Resilent Connection between a Pick Shank and Block - In one aspect of the present invention, a pick assembly is configured that comprises a pick shank configured to be press fit directly within a bore of a block. The pick shank comprises an inside and outside surface. The pick comprises a pick head opposite the shank. The shank comprises at least one longitudinal recess extending towards the pick head along the shank from a distal end of the shank. The recess allows the shank to resiliently collapse upon insertion into the bore while maintaining a press fit between the bore and the shank. | 10-20-2011 |
20110254349 | Resilent Connection between a Pick Shank and Block - In one aspect of the present invention, a pick assembly is configured that comprises a pick shank configured to be press fit directly within a bore of a block. The pick shank comprises an inside and outside surface. The pick comprises a pick head opposite the shank. The shank comprises at least one longitudinal recess extending towards the pick head along the shank from a distal end of the shank. The recess allows the shank to resiliently collapse upon insertion into the bore while maintaining a press fit between the bore and the shank. | 10-20-2011 |
20110254350 | Resilent Connection between a Pick Shank and Block - In one aspect of the present invention, a pick assembly is configured that comprises a pick shank configured to be press fit directly within a bore of a block. The pick shank comprises an inside and outside surface. The pick comprises a pick head opposite the shank. The shank comprises at least one longitudinal recess extending towards the pick head along the shank from a distal end of the shank. The recess allows the shank to resiliently collapse upon insertion into the bore while maintaining a press fit between the bore and the shank. | 10-20-2011 |
20110266861 | Manually Rotatable Tool - In one aspect of the present invention, a tool assembly comprises a rotary portion and a stationary portion. The rotary portion comprises a bolster bonded to a diamond symmetric, substantially conically shaped tip. The stationary portion comprises a block mounted to a driving mechanism. A compressible element is disposed intermediate and in mechanical contact with both the rotary and stationary portions. The compressible element is compressed sufficiently to restrict free rotation during a degradation operation. | 11-03-2011 |
20130181501 | Pick with Threaded Shank - A degradation assembly may comprise a block secured to a surface. The degradation assembly may also comprise a pick comprising a working end and a shank. The shank may comprise a continuous external circumference and a shank thread form configured to secure the shank within the block, or within a holder secured within the block. | 07-18-2013 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090267403 | Resilient Pick Shank - In one aspect of the invention, a pick assembly comprises a pick shank press fitted within a bore of a pick holder. The pick comprises a pick head opposite the shank. The shank also comprises at least one longitudinal slot extending towards the pick head along the shank from a distal end of the shank. The slot allows the shank to resiliently collapse upon insertion into the bore while still allowing the shank to maintain a press fit while within the bore. | 10-29-2009 |
20090273225 | Resilient Pick Shank - In one aspect of the invention, a pick assembly comprises a pick shank press fitted within a bore of a pick holder. The pick comprises a pick head opposite the shank. The shank also comprises at least one longitudinal slot extending towards the pick head along the shank from a distal end of the shank. The slot allows the shank to resiliently collapse upon insertion into the bore while still allowing the shank to maintain a press fit while within the bore. | 11-05-2009 |
20110013983 | End of a Moldboard Positioned Proximate a Milling Drum - In one aspect of the present invention, the present invention is a system for removing aggregate from a paved surface. The system includes a motorized vehicle with a degradation drum that is connected to the underside of the vehicle. The degradation drum is enclosed by a milling chamber. The milling chamber is defined by having a plurality of plates, including a moldboard positioned rearward of the milling drum. The moldboard comprises an end that is disposed opposite the underside. The end comprises a section that is proximate the milling drum. | 01-20-2011 |
20110013984 | End of a Moldboard Positioned Proximate a Milling Drum - In one aspect of the present invention, the present invention is a system for removing aggregate from a paved surface. The system includes a motorized vehicle with a degradation drum that is connected to the underside of the vehicle. The degradation drum is enclosed by a milling chamber. The milling chamber is defined by having a plurality of plates, including a moldboard positioned rearward of the milling drum. The moldboard comprises an end that is disposed opposite the underside. The end comprises a section that is proximate the milling drum. | 01-20-2011 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110319730 | BIO-PHOTONIC FEEDBACK CONTROL SOFTWARE AND DATABASE - A process, apparatus, and method for online control and database collection and management of a computerized detection, tracking, and feedback control system. The system tests for nutrients by Raman scattering effects on skin or other tissues to determine the content of carotenoids or other nutrients as evidenced in that skin. Serum levels of nutrients may vary dramatically with time, but skin tissues may average such nutrition over time. Skin and other tissues may be scanned with light to produce accurate measurements of carotenoids or other nutrients accumulated in the skin based on the Raman scattering affect of those nutrients in the skin. A score can be derived from a properly calibrated bio-photonic scanner to reflect an averaged effective uptake of the detected nutrient (e.g. such as the carotenoid example). | 12-29-2011 |
20110320324 | BIO-PHOTONIC FEEDBACK CONTROL SOFTWARE AND DATABASE - A process, apparatus, and method for computerized detection, tracking, and feedback control of nutritional supplements in an animal, including humans relies on Raman scattering effects on skin or other tissues to determine the content of carotenoids or other nutrients as evidenced in that skin. Serum levels of nutrients may vary dramatically with time, but skin tissues may average such nutrition over time. Skin and other tissues may be scanned with light to produce accurate measurements of carotenoids or other nutrients accumulated in the skin based on the Raman scattering affect of those nutrients in the skin. A score can be derived from a properly calibrated bio-photonic scanner to reflect an averaged effective uptake of the detected nutrient (e.g. such as the carotenoid example). This feedback control is thus much more immediate than any anecdotal, long-term, report of general well being, which would vary so much between individuals as to be nearly impossible to ascertain on an individual level, and difficult, invasive, and expensive to determine individually in a conventional clinical procedure. | 12-29-2011 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110127311 | OUT OF POSITION FRICTION STIR WELDING OF CASING AND SMALL DIAMETER TUBING OR PIPE - A system and method for friction stir welding of small diameter tubing, wherein the small diameter tubing is held in a correct position with a grasp sufficient to perform FSW when the tubing is comprised of high melting temperature materials, wherein the small diameter tubing can be rotated by the positioning and holding system while a FSW tool is held stationary, or vice versa, wherein internal mandrels are also described which can fit inside the smaller dimensions of the small diameter tubing and expand to provide a counter force to prevent deformation of the tubing when forces are applied by the FSW tool, wherein new FSW tool geometries are also described which enable the FSW tool to direct more heat on a tool/workpiece interface to counteract a lack of contact between the FSW shoulder and the workpiece because of tube curvature, and wherein the FSW tool is positioned on a small diameter tube by trailing the joint to provide desirable heating at the joint/workpiece interface and surface finishing. | 06-02-2011 |
20130068825 | MATERIAL SURFACE MODIFICATION USING FRICTION STIR WELDING HYBRID PROCESS - A system and method for modifying a work piece surface of high melting temperature materials such as Advanced High Strength Steels, wherein a friction stir welding tool may include cutting elements located on the outside diameter of a collar assembly, wherein the collar assembly may be retrofitted for existing friction stir welding tools, or may be designed as a custom attachment for a new hybrid friction stir welding tool, wherein the surface of the work piece may be modified by removing detrimental flash and burr created during operation of the friction stir welding tool. | 03-21-2013 |
20130206818 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR HOLDING MATERIALS HAVING ARCUATE SURFACES IN PLACE FOR FRICTION STIR WELDING OR PROCESSING - A system and method for holding a friction stir processing material in place on a substrate having a curved surface for the purpose of mixing the friction stir processing material into the curved substrate using a solid-state process, wherein the system includes selecting one of a variety of mechanical means of attaching the friction stir processing material to the substrate that will enable friction stir processing to be performed that is economical, efficient and safe. | 08-15-2013 |
20130299560 | DISPOSABLE MANDREL FOR FRICTION STIR JOINING - A system and method for providing a mandrel that can be used to react the loads that are created by a friction stir joining tool as it performs friction stir joining of tubulars, the mandrel selected from a disposable mandrel, a partially disposable mandrel, a reusable mandrel, and a mandrel that is partially disposable and partially reusable. | 11-14-2013 |
20130299561 | FRICTION STIR JOINING OF CURVED SURFACES - A system and method for joining curved surfaces such as pipes by obtaining pipes having additional rough stock material on the pipe ends, the rough stock material being precision machine processed to prepare complementary face profiles on each of the curved surfaces and then performing friction stir joining of the pipes to obtain a joint that has fewer defects than joints created from conventional welding. | 11-14-2013 |
20140183798 | MANUFACTURE OF CUTTING ELEMENTS HAVING LOBES - An apparatus for forming a cutting insert. The apparatus may include compression device having a first sleeve with a bore therein. The first sleeve may receive a substantially hollow can. A plurality of solid particulates may be positioned within the can, and a substrate material or other punch may also be positioned in the can. A forming device of the compression device may be located adjacent an end of the can in which the solid particulates are located. The forming device may include at least one protrusion extending from an inner surface thereof into the bore. The protrusion may be adapted to deform the can while also forming the plurality of solid particulates into a solid mass having one or more reliefs and one or more lobes therein. | 07-03-2014 |
20140183800 | MANUFACTURE OF CUTTING ELEMENTS HAVING LOBES - An apparatus for forming a cutting insert may include a compression device having a sleeve with a bore. The sleeve may receive a substantially hollow can. Solid particulates may be positioned within the can, and a substrate material or other punch may also be positioned in the can. A forming device adjacent an end of the can in which the solid particulates are located may include at least one protrusion extending into the bore. The protrusion may be adapted to deform the can while also forming the plurality of solid particulates into a solid mass having one or more reliefs and/or lobes. A method may include pressing the solid particulates while within a can to form a solid mass having one or more reliefs or lobes. An HPHT process may be performed to bond the solid mass to a substrate material. | 07-03-2014 |
20140263574 | OUT OF POSITION FRICTION STIR WELDING OF CASING AND SMALL DIAMETER TUBING OR PIPE - A system and method for friction stir welding of small diameter tubing, wherein the small diameter tubing is held in a correct position with a grasp sufficient to perform FSW when the tubing is comprised of high melting temperature materials, wherein the small diameter tubing can be rotated by the positioning and holding system while a FSW tool is held stationary, or vice versa, wherein internal mandrels are also described which can fit inside the smaller dimensions of the small diameter tubing and expand to provide a counter force to prevent deformation of the tubing when forces are applied by the FSW tool, wherein new FSW tool geometries are also described which enable the FSW tool to direct more heat on a tool/workpiece interface to counteract a lack of contact between the FSW shoulder and the workpiece because of tube curvature, and wherein the FSW tool is positioned on a small diameter tube by trailing the joint to provide desirable heating at the joint/workpiece interface and surface finishing. | 09-18-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090096788 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INCREASING EFFICIENCY OF TRANSMISSION AND/OR STORAGE OF RAYS FOR PARALLELIZED RAY INTERSECTION TESTING - For ray tracing, methods, apparatus, and computer readable media provide efficient transmission and/or storage of rays between ray emitters, and an intersection testing resource. Ray emitters, during emission of a plurality of rays, identify a shared attribute of each ray of the plurality, and represent that attribute as shared ray data. The shared ray data, and other ray data sufficient to determine both an origin and a direction for each ray of the plurality, are transmitted. Functionality in the intersection testing resource receives the shared ray data and the other ray data, and interprets the shared ray data and the other ray data to determine an origin and direction for each ray of the plurality, and provides those rays for intersection testing. Rays can be stored in the shared attribute format in the intersection testing resource and data elements representing the rays can be constructed later. Programmable receiving functionality of the intersection testing resource can accommodate many ray types and other situations. | 04-16-2009 |
20090096789 | METHOD, APPARATUS, AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM FOR LIGHT ENERGY ACCOUNTING IN RAY TRACING - For ray tracing systems, described methods, media, apparatuses provide for accounting of light energy that will be collected at pixels of a 2-D representation without recursive closure of a tree of ray/primitive intersections, and also provide for adaptivity in ray tracing based on importance indicators of each ray, such as a weight, which may be carried in data structures representative of the rays. Examples of such adaptivity may include determining a number of children to issue for shading an identified intersecting primitive, culling rays, and adding rays to achieve more accurate sampling, if desired. All such adaptivity may be triggered with goal-based indicators, such as a threshold value representative of rendering progress to a time-based goal, such as a frame rate. | 04-16-2009 |
20090128562 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR RENDERING WITH RAY TRACING - For ray tracing scenes composed of primitives, systems and methods accelerate ray/primitive intersection identification by testing rays against elements of geometry acceleration data (GAD) in a parallelized intersection testing resource. Groups of rays can be described as shared attribute information and individual ray data for efficient ray data transfer between a host processor and the testing resource. The host processor also hosts shading and/or management processes controlling the testing resource and adapting the ray tracing, as necessary or desirable, to meet criteria, while reducing degradation of rendering quality. The GAD elements can be arranged in a graph, and rays can be collected into collections based on whether a ray intersects a given element. When a collection is deemed ready for further testing, it is tested for intersection with GAD elements connected, in the graph, to the given element. The graph can be hierarchical such that rays of a given collection are tested against children of the GAD element associated with the given collection. | 05-21-2009 |
20090284523 | METHOD, APPARATUS, AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM FOR ACCELERATING INTERSECTION TESTING IN RAY-TRACING RENDERING - For ray tracing scenes composed of primitives, systems and methods accelerate intersection testing by testing rays against elements of geometry acceleration data (GAD) arranged in a graph of nodes, where pairs of nodes are connected by edges, and each element bounds a varying granularity selection of the primitives. Upon detection of intersections between rays and elements, references to the rays are added to respective collections associated with the elements. Further processing of those rays is deferred until rays of a given collection are determined ready, and then rays from such a ready collection are tested for intersection with elements of GAD connected by edges to the element associated with the ready collection. When a primitive is bounded by no higher granularity GAD element, it is tested for intersection, and indications of intersection are output. Some examples encourage production of many secondary rays and collect such rays for parallelized testing, regardless of traversal order, camera ray association, or a time when each ray was spawned. | 11-19-2009 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100050232 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 02-25-2010 |
20110282977 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 11-17-2011 |
20110283273 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 11-17-2011 |
20120192256 | DISCONNECTED CREDENTIAL VALIDATION USING PRE-FETCHED SERVICE TICKETS - One or more user service tickets are obtained (i.e. pre-fetched) from an authentication server and stored in a ticket cache. The user service tickets facilitate a login device communicating with one or more users or group members associated with the login device. Login credentials for the users or group members may be subsequently authenticated against the user service tickets within the ticket cache thereby eliminating the need for immediate access to the authentication server or a previous login session by the users or group members. The user service tickets within the ticket cache may be refreshed as needed. In one embodiment, the user service tickets are refreshed daily and also in response to login attempts if the authentication service is readily accessible. | 07-26-2012 |
20120215899 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 08-23-2012 |
20120297035 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 11-22-2012 |
20140012964 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 01-09-2014 |
20140196132 | DISCONNECTED CREDENTIAL VALIDATION USING PRE-FETCHED SERVICE TICKETS - One or more user service tickets are obtained (i.e. pre-fetched) from an authentication server and stored in a ticket cache. The user service tickets facilitate a login device communicating with one or more users or group members associated with the login device. Login credentials for the users or group members may be subsequently authenticated against the user service tickets within the ticket cache thereby eliminating the need for immediate access to the authentication server or a previous login session by the users or group members. The user service tickets within the ticket cache may be refreshed as needed. In one embodiment, the user service tickets are refreshed daily and also in response to login attempts if the authentication service is readily accessible. | 07-10-2014 |
20140379876 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MANAGING POLICIES ON A COMPUTER - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for managing policies on a computer having a foreign operating system. Policies may specify hardware or software configuration information. Policies on a first computer with a native operating system are translated into configuration information usable on a second computer having a foreign operating system. In an embodiment, a translator manager manages the association between the policy on the first computer and the translator on the second computer. Computer management complexity and information technology management costs are reduced by centralizing computer management on the native operating system. Further reductions in management complexity are realized when the present invention is used in conjunction with network directory services. | 12-25-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110270717 | SYSTEM, PROGRAM PRODUCT, AND METHODS FOR ONLINE IMAGE HANDLING - A system to facilitate electronic commerce associated with an online marketplace, program product, and methods are provided. Electronic commerce over a computer network is facilitated by a computer system that forms a community of computers that enable the users to buy and sell items in an online marketplace. To list the item on an online marketplace website, for example, the selling user posts an item with a seller marketplace item management website by completing an online-item marketplace item creation form. The form requires input related to the item, such as a description, sale price or minimum bid, shipping instructions, and the like, and an image file or image file location illustrating the marketplace item. The seller marketplace item management server provides a marketplace administrator server the marketplace item data including original image file or image file location. The server contains a random image size generator that generates at least two additional images of the marketplace item for display in a seller marketplace item web page to advertise the marketplace item. | 11-03-2011 |
20140164168 | SYSTEM, PROGRAM PRODUCT, AND METHODS FOR ONLINE IMAGE HANDLING - A system to facilitate electronic commerce associated with an online marketplace, program product, and methods are provided. Electronic commerce over a computer network is facilitated by a computer system that forms a community of computers that enable the users to buy and sell items in an online marketplace. To list the item on an online marketplace website, for example, the selling user posts an item with a seller marketplace item management website by completing an online-item marketplace item creation form. The form requires input related to the item, such as a description, sale price or minimum bid, shipping instructions, and the like, and an image file or image file location illustrating the marketplace item. The seller marketplace item management server provides a marketplace administrator server the marketplace item data including original image file or image file location. The server contains a random image size generator that generates at least two additional images of the marketplace item for display in a seller marketplace item web page to advertise the marketplace item. | 06-12-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100264134 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR INDUCTION HEATING - A heating apparatus for induction heating is disclosed. The heating apparatus may comprise a bearing ring, at least one bearing element disposed in the bearing ring, and a braze material adjacent to the at least one bearing element and the bearing ring. The heating apparatus may additionally comprise an inductor positioned radially adjacent to at least a portion of the bearing ring. A current source may be electrically coupled to the inductor. A bearing orienting member may also abut a surface of the at least one bearing element. The bearing orienting member may orient a surface of the at least one bearing element. A heating method is also disclosed. | 10-21-2010 |
20110088955 | CUTTING ELEMENT APPARATUSES, DRILL BITS INCLUDING SAME, METHODS OF CUTTING, AND METHODS OF ROTATING A CUTTING ELEMENT - A subterranean drilling system may include a drill string and a rotary drill bit coupled to the drill string. The rotary drill bit may include a bit body and a cutting element coupled to the bit body, with the cutting element being structured to rotate in response to torque applied to the cutting element. The system also may include a cam assembly coupled to the drill string, a cam follower assembly in contact with a cam surface of the cam assembly, and a torque-applying structure coupled to the cam follower assembly. The torque-applying structure may be configured to apply torque to the cutting element in response to relative rotation between the cam assembly and the cam follower assembly. | 04-21-2011 |
20120234609 | CUTTING ELEMENT APPARATUSES, DRILL BITS INCLUDING SAME, METHODS OF CUTTING, AND METHODS OF ROTATING A CUTTING ELEMENT - A subterranean drilling system may include a drill string and a rotary drill bit coupled to the drill string. The rotary drill bit may include a bit body and a cutting element coupled to the bit body, with the cutting element being structured to rotate in response to torque applied to the cutting element. The system also may include a cam assembly coupled to the drill string, a cam follower assembly in contact with a cam surface of the cam assembly, and a torque-applying structure coupled to the cam follower assembly. The torque-applying structure may be configured to apply torque to the cutting element in response to relative rotation between the cam assembly and the cam follower assembly. | 09-20-2012 |
20120281938 | TILTING SUPERHARD BEARING ELEMENTS IN BEARING ASSEMBLIES, APPARATUSES, AND MOTOR ASSEMBLIES USING THE SAME - Embodiments relate to tilting superhard bearing element bearing assemblies and apparatuses. The disclosed assemblies/apparatuses may be employed in downhole motors of a subterranean drilling system or other mechanical systems. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly may include a support ring and a plurality of superhard bearing elements each of which is tilted and/or tiltably secured relative to the support ring and distributed circumferentially about an axis. Each of the superhard bearing elements includes a bearing surface and a base portion. The base portion of the at least one of the superhard bearing elements may include a tilting feature configured to allow the at least one of the superhard bearing elements to be tiltable about a tilt axis. The bearing assembly includes retaining features that secure the superhard bearing elements to the support ring. | 11-08-2012 |
20130156357 | BEARING ASSEMBLIES, APPARATUSES, AND MOTOR ASSEMBLIES USING THE SAME - Bearing assemblies, apparatuses, and motor assemblies using the same are disclosed. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly may include a plurality of superhard bearing elements distributed circumferentially about an axis. Each of the superhard bearing elements may include a bearing surface. At least one of the plurality of superhard bearing elements may include at least one texture feature that may be formed in a lateral surface thereof. The bearing assembly may also include a support ring that carries the superhard bearing elements. | 06-20-2013 |
20130182980 | BEARING ELEMENTS, BEARING ASSEMBLIES, AND RELATED METHODS - Bearing components, bearing assemblies and related methods are provided. In one embodiment, a bearing element includes a base layer and a polycrystalline diamond (PCD) layer comprising a plurality of PCD elements coupled with the base layer wherein each PCD element comprising a substrate and a diamond table. The plurality of PCD elements may be fit together to form a substantially continuous bearing surface. For example, the diamond tables may exhibit substantially square or rectangular geometries that are fit together to define the bearing surface. In other embodiments, the bearing elements may be spaced apart from one another. In other embodiments, the bearing element may include a single PCD element formed from a prefabricated PCD compact or cutting tool blank. Various bearing assemblies may incorporate such a bearing element including, for example, thrust bearings, journal bearings, and tilting pad bearing assemblies. | 07-18-2013 |
20130188899 | ROLLER BEARING ASSEMBLIES, APPARATUSES, AND RELATED METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - In an embodiment, a roller bearing assembly may include superhard bearing elements distributed circumferentially about an axis, with gaps located between adjacent ones of the superhard bearing elements. Each of the superhard bearing elements may include a bearing surface and a pair of side surfaces intersecting the bearing surface. Each of the side surfaces may form a respective oblique angle relative to the axis. The roller bearing assembly may include a support ring having the superhard bearing elements affixed thereto. The bearing surfaces of the superhard bearing elements may be positioned and configured to form at least a portion of a superhard raceway for rolling elements to roll over. The oblique angle may be selected to at least partially inhibit the gaps from impeding the rolling elements during operation. | 07-25-2013 |
20140020956 | CUTTING ELEMENT APPARATUSES, DRILL BITS INCLUDING SAME, METHODS OF CUTTING, AND METHODS OF ROTATING A CUTTING ELEMENT - A subterranean drilling system may include a drill string and a rotary drill bit coupled to the drill string. The rotary drill bit may include a bit body and a cutting element coupled to the bit body, with the cutting element being structured to rotate in response to torque applied to the cutting element. The system also may include a cam assembly coupled to the drill string, a cam follower assembly in contact with a cam surface of the cam assembly, and a torque-applying structure coupled to the cam follower assembly. The torque-applying structure may be configured to apply torque to the cutting element in response to relative rotation between the cam assembly and the cam follower assembly. | 01-23-2014 |
20140102810 | BEARING ASSEMBLIES AND APPARATUSES INCLUDING TILTING SUPERHARD BEARING ELEMENTS, AND MOTOR ASSEMBLIES USING THE SAME - Embodiments relate to tilting superhard bearing element bearing assemblies and apparatuses. The disclosed assemblies/apparatuses may be employed in downhole motors of a subterranean drilling system or other mechanical systems. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly may include a support ring and a plurality of superhard bearing elements each of which is tilted and/or tiltably secured relative to the support ring and distributed circumferentially about an axis. Each of the superhard bearing elements includes a bearing surface and a base portion. The base portion of the at least one of the superhard bearing elements may include a tilting feature configured to allow the at least one of the superhard bearing elements to be tiltable about a tilt axis. The bearing assembly includes retaining features that secure the superhard bearing elements to the support ring. | 04-17-2014 |
20140105739 | BEARING ASSEMBLIES, AND RELATED METHODS - Bearing components, bearing assemblies and related methods are provided. In one embodiment, a bearing element includes a base layer and a polycrystalline diamond (PCD) layer comprising a plurality of PCD elements coupled with the base layer wherein each PCD element comprising a substrate and a diamond table. The plurality of PCD elements may be fit together to form a substantially continuous bearing surface. For example, the diamond tables may exhibit substantially square or rectangular geometries that are fit together to define the bearing surface. In other embodiments, the bearing elements may be spaced apart from one another. In other embodiments, the bearing element may include a single PCD element formed from a prefabricated PCD compact or cutting tool blank. Various bearing assemblies may incorporate such a bearing element including, for example, thrust bearings, journal bearings, and tilting pad bearing assemblies. | 04-17-2014 |
20140169718 | ROLLER BEARING APPARATUSES INCLUDING COMPLIANT ROLLING ELEMENTS, AND RELATED METHODS OF MANUFACTURE - In an embodiment, a roller bearing apparatus may include a rotor having first superhard raceway elements distributed circumferentially about an axis. Each first superhard raceway element includes a raceway surface positioned/configured to form a first portion of a raceway. The apparatus includes a stator including second superhard raceway elements generally opposed to the first superhard raceway elements. Each second superhard raceway element includes a raceway surface positioned/configured to form a second portion of the raceway. The apparatus includes rolling elements interposed between the rotor and stator and positioned and configured to roll on the raceway. One or more of the rolling elements may be configured to elastically deform on the raceway during use. At least a portion of the raceway exhibits a first modulus of elasticity greater than a second modulus of elasticity of at least a portion of the one or more of the rolling elements. | 06-19-2014 |
20140345141 | BEARING ASSEMBLIES INCLUDING A THERMALLY CONDUCTIVE STRUCTURE, BEARING APPARATUSES, AND METHODS OF USE - Embodiments of the invention are directed to bearing assemblies configured to effectively provide heat distribution from and/or heat dissipation for bearing element, bearing apparatuses including such bearing assemblies, and methods of operating such bearing assemblies and apparatuses. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly includes a plurality of superhard bearing elements distributed about an axis. Each superhard bearing element of the plurality of superhard bearing elements has a superhard material including a superhard surface. Additionally, a support ring structure that includes a support ring that supports the plurality of superhard bearing elements and a thermally-conductive structure in thermal communication with the superhard table of each of the plurality of superhard bearing elements. The thermally-conductive structure has a higher thermal conductivity than the support ring of the support ring structure. | 11-27-2014 |
20150043849 | THERMAL MANAGEMENT BEARING ASSEMBLIES, APPARATUSES, AND MOTOR ASSEMBLIES USING THE SAME - Bearing assemblies, apparatuses, and motor assemblies using the same are disclosed. In an embodiment, the bearing assembly may include a support ring extending circumferentially about a central axis and a plurality of superhard bearing elements distributed circumferentially about the central axis. Each of the superhard bearing elements may be mounted to the support ring and may include a bearing surface. The bearing assembly may further include one or more thermal management elements including at least one of one or more thermally conductive structures or at least one of the superhard tables exhibiting a non-uniform thickness structured to promote cooling thereof during use. The one or more thermal management elements are in thermal communication one or more bearing surfaces and are configured to promote heat transfer away from the one or more of the bearing surfaces. | 02-12-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20100224445 | STEPLADDERS AND RELATED METHODS - Stepladders and related methods of using and manufacturing stepladders are provided. In one embodiment, a stepladder is provided that comprises a top cap, a first assembly and a second assembly. The first assembly has a pair of spaced apart rails pivotally coupled with the top cap. The second assembly includes at least one rail pivotally coupled with the top cap. The first assembly and second assembly are configured to be displaced relative one another such that the stepladder is selectively positionable between a first, deployed state and a second, collapsed state. The first assembly, the second assembly and the top cap are cooperatively configured such that the at least one rail of the second assembly is at least partially nested within an envelope defined by the pair of spaced apart rails of the first assembly with the step ladder is in a collapsed state. | 09-09-2010 |
20100300805 | ADJUSTABLE LADDERS AND RELATED METHODS - The present invention relates to ladders and, more particularly, various configurations of ladders including straight and extension ladders, as well as to methods relating to the use and manufacture of such ladders. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a ladder is provided that includes a first pair of spaced apart rails and a plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the first pair of spaced apart rails. The ladder also includes a pair of lateral support members, wherein each support member is selectively displaceable in a lateral direction relative to an associated rail. Additionally, the ladder includes a pair of adjustable legs, each leg having a first end slidably coupled to an associated rail of the first pair of spaced apart rails and being slidably coupled to an associated lateral support member. | 12-02-2010 |
20130118833 | ADJUSTABLE LADDERS AND RELATED METHODS - The present invention relates to ladders and, more particularly, various configurations of ladders including straight and extension ladders, as well as to methods relating to the use and manufacture of such ladders. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a ladder is provided that includes a first pair of spaced apart rails and a plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the first pair of spaced apart rails. The ladder also includes a pair of lateral support members, wherein each support member is selectively displaceable in a lateral direction relative to an associated rail. Additionally, the ladder includes a pair of adjustable legs, each leg having a first end slidably coupled to an associated rail of the first pair of spaced apart rails and being slidably coupled to an associated lateral support member. | 05-16-2013 |
20140102827 | LADDER SECURING APPARATUSES, LADDERS INCORPORATING SAME AND RELATED METHODS - A ladder is provided comprising a first pair of spaced apart rails and a plurality of rungs extending between and coupled to the first pair of spaced apart rails. A pair of hooks are located such that each hook is positioned adjacent and upper end of an associated rail. A securing apparatus is coupled adjacent the upper end of the first pair of spaced apart rails. The securing apparatus includes a pair of spaced apart engaging members and may include a cross-member coupled therebetween. Each of the engagement members is pivotal with respect to an associated rail of the first pair of spaced apart rails. In one embodiment, the securing apparatus lacks any biasing members (e.g., springs or actuators) or locking members. The engagement members and hooks cooperatively encircle and overhead, generally horizontal support member to support and secure the ladder in a desired position. | 04-17-2014 |
20140190768 | STEPLADDERS AND RELATED METHODS - Stepladders and related methods of using and manufacturing stepladders are provided. In one embodiment, a stepladder is provided that comprises a top cap, a first assembly and a second assembly. The first assembly has a pair of spaced apart rails pivotally coupled with the top cap. The second assembly includes at least one rail pivotally coupled with the top cap. The first assembly and second assembly are configured to be displaced relative one another such that the stepladder is selectively positionable between a first, deployed state and a second, collapsed state. The first assembly, the second assembly and the top cap are cooperatively configured such that the at least one rail of the second assembly is at least partially nested within an envelope defined by the pair of spaced apart rails of the first assembly with the step ladder is in a collapsed state. | 07-10-2014 |
20140202793 | ADJUSTABLE LADDERS AND RELATED COMPONENTS - Adjustable ladders may include a pair of side rails having a plurality of rungs extending therebetween, and a pair of adjustable legs associated with the side rails. A pair of swing arms may include a first end pivotally coupled with a side rail, or a bracket associated with the side rail, as well as a second end pivotally coupled with an adjustable leg. The swing arm may be configured as a nonlinear structure. In one embodiment, the swing arm may include a first section that extends from a second section at a defined angle. The first and second sections may exhibit different lengths. Adjustment mechanisms may be pivotally coupled with an upper end of the adjustable legs. In one embodiment, the adjustment mechanisms may be configured such that, when actuated, they may be displaced in one direction while resisting displacement in a second, opposite direction. | 07-24-2014 |
20150068842 | ADJUSTABLE LADDERS, LADDER COMPONENTS AND RELATED METHODS - Ladders, ladder components, adjustment mechanisms and related methods are provided herein. In one embodiment, a ladder may include an adjustment mechanism for adjusting, for example, a leveler, a stabilizer, or any two relatively displaceable components of the ladder. The adjustment mechanism may include an actuating mechanism having a first structure and a second structure slidably disposed adjacent the first structure, the second structure having a plurality of engagement surfaces. A body is coupled with the first structure. At least two engagement pins are slidably displaceable relative to the body, wherein the plurality of engagement surfaces and the at least two engagement pins are arranged such that only a single engagement pin of the at least two engagement pins is in abutting engagement with an engagement surface of the plurality of engagement surfaces at one time. At least one biasing member is configured to bias the at least two engagement pins towards engagement with the engagement surfaces. | 03-12-2015 |
20150075905 | LADDER SECURING APPARATUS, LADDERS INCORPORATING SAME AND RELATED METHODS - A ladder is provided having a securing apparatus for securing the ladder to a horizontally extending support structure (e.g., a utility cable), a vertically extending support structure (e.g., a utility pole) or both. In accordance with one embodiment, the securing apparatus includes a pair of spaced apart engagement mechanisms, wherein each engagement mechanism is pivotally coupled with an associated rail of the ladder. Each engagement mechanism includes a frame member, an engagement member pivotally coupled with the frame member and a pole grasping structure coupled with the frame member. In one embodiment, each engagement member is configured to rotate from a first position, wherein an open gate is formed between the engagement member and its associated frame member, to a closed position. | 03-19-2015 |
20150075907 | LADDERS INCLUDING ROPE AND PULLEY SYSTEM AND FALL PROTECTION DEVICE - A ladder is provided which may include a positioning system, a fall arrest system, or both. In one embodiment, a rope and pulley system is provided wherein a first end of the rope is coupled to a base section of the ladder, a second end of the rope is coupled with a fly section of the ladder, and the rope extends between a plurality of pulleys. In one particular embodiment, the rope extends between five different pulleys, two being coupled with the fly section and three being coupled with the base section. At least one portion of the rope may extend along the side of the ladder (e.g., along the side of a rail of the fly section) while another section may extend up the front of the ladder between the rails and in front of the rungs. A fall arrest mechanism, or an ascender device, may be coupled with the section of rope extending up the ladder between the rails and in front of the rungs. | 03-19-2015 |
20150075908 | LADDERS WITH PHOTO LUMINESCENT AND REFLECTIVE COMPONENTS AND RELATED COMPONENTS AND METHODS - A visual indicator for a ladder is provided which may include a component having a photo luminescent material, a component have a reflective material, or both. In one embodiment, the visual indicator includes a rung plug having a cap portion and a body portion, the body portion being configured to be inserted into the interior hollow of a ladder rung such that the cap portion is visible along the side of an associated ladder rail. The cap portion may comprise a photo luminescent material, a reflective material or both. In one embodiment, the cap portion comprises a photo luminescent material while a separate reflective indicator is placed on the ladder rail at a location adjacent the rung plug. | 03-19-2015 |