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Hatcher, US

Amy Hatcher, Auburn, WA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080296356INSULATED FOOD CRATE - An insulated food crate comprises a generally rectangular, typically cardboard box having separable top and bottom portions with double walls providing insulative properties and also insulating inserts fitted into the top and bottom portions. The box may also have ventilation holes or slots and/or compartments for serving utensils and may be disposable. In alternate embodiments, the insulated food crate may be made from a heat-resistant composite material, such as a reinforced plastic or stainless steel, as a more permanent, durable, and reusable solution. This inexpensive, accessible catering box keeps hot foods hot and cold foods cold while allowing quick and easy access to the foods inside.12-04-2008

Arndra E. Hatcher, New Haven, CT US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100037908Hair Enhancement Method and Apparatus with Hair Tracks - A method and an apparatus is provided for hair enhancement. The apparatus comprises an adjustable head cap having a rim and at least one strip disposed selectively around the rim. The strip is secured to the rim and extending away from it. The strip(s) is enabled to receive one or more hair pieces and hair tracks. The hair tracks are secured to the strips by interlocking the underside of their fastening component with a portion of the outwardly facing surface of the strip having a complementary design.02-18-2010

Ashley Hatcher, Columbus, GA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090139890FOOD TRAY WITH NON-SLIP INSERTS - A tray system, comprising one or more retaining portions for a food container, the one or more retaining portions receiving and securely holding fitted non-slip inserts. The tray system includes one or more feet which are of a depth at least equal to deepest recessed retaining portion of the tray. The feet may allow the tray to sit stably on a flat surface. The tray may have a non-slip removable insert inserted into the retaining portion which may be fitted to the bottom of the retaining portion and may maintain grip on serving tray and food container.06-04-2009

Brady Jon Hatcher, Rogers, MN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100234875RUPTURE-RESISTANT COMPLIANT RADIOPAQUE CATHETER BALLOON AND METHODS FOR USE OF SAME IN AN INTRAVASCULAR SURGICAL PROCEDURE - The present invention provides a compliant balloon for use with a catheter having an inner compliant inner layer defining a cylindrical lumen encased by a fiber layer including non-braided inelastic fibers imparting integrity to the balloon wall. The balloon further includes radiopaque material which may be disposed over substantially the entire length of the balloon as a coating or by incorporation within the fiber layer or an outer coating layer. The balloon is expandable from a folded deflated state to an inflated state by increasing pressure within the balloon and can be used with saline as the sole inflation medium to allow rapid deflation as compared to use of a balloon with a contrast medium.09-16-2010

Clifford Hatcher, Orlando, FL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100275949ULTRASONIC COATING REMOVAL METHOD - A method for removing a coating layer from a substrate structure. The method includes the steps of positioning a sheet of interface material on the substrate structure with a first, inner face of the interface material in engagement with a predetermined area of the coating layer, and exciting a second, outer face of the interface material with an ultrasonic frequency kinetic energy. The ultrasonic energy causes the predetermined area of the coating layer in contact with the inner face of the interface Material to be substantially completely removed.11-04-2010
20110007774Thermography Inspection of Surface Discontinuities - A method for detecting surface discontinuities in a test specimen. The method includes applying a one or more substances including a detection medium to the test specimen wherein the detection medium enters at least one surface discontinuity in the test specimen. The specimen surface is monitored for discontinuity signatures produced by the detection medium. The monitoring includes monitoring the detection medium to detect a temperature differential indicative of a surface discontinuity in the test specimen wherein the discontinuity signatures include a warm signature emitted by the detection medium that has entered the surface discontinuity.01-13-2011
20110062339System and Method for Analysis of Ultrasonic Power Coupling During Acoustic Thermography - A system and method of performing acoustic thermography in which invalid data is filtered from data used to detect defects on a structure. An ultrasonic sound input signal is provided to a structure to produce a thermal image output. A sensor senses an input energy corresponding to the sound input signal and produces an input energy signal. The input energy signal is transformed to a test spectrum and is compared to a reference spectrum. The comparison of the test spectrum to the reference spectrum is used to determine whether to include the thermal image output in an analysis for detecting defects in the structure.03-17-2011

Patent applications by Clifford Hatcher, Orlando, FL US

David Hatcher, Palm Bay, FL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110022058Device for Immobilizing a Primary Instrument and Method Therefor - Devices and methods provide accurate targeting, placement, and/or stabilization of an electrode or other instrument(s) into the brain or other body organ, such as to treat severe tremor or other neurological disorders. Targeting is performed using any form of image-guidance, including real-time MRI, CT, or frameless surgical navigation systems.01-27-2011
20110022059Device for Immobilizing a Primary Instrument and Method Therefor - Devices and methods provide accurate targeting, placement, and/or stabilization of an electrode or other instrument(s) into the brain or other body organ, such as to treat severe tremor or other neurological disorders. Targeting is performed using any form of image-guidance, including real-time MRI, CT, or frameless surgical navigation systems.01-27-2011

Patent applications by David Hatcher, Palm Bay, FL US

Diane Yang Hatcher, Cary, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080235231Computer-Implemented Systems And Methods For Database Access - Computer-implemented systems and methods for providing row-level security. A system can be configured to receive a request for data that is contained in tables and to use one or more row-level security policies to augment the received request with one or more row-level security query-related clauses.09-25-2008

Forest A. Hatcher, Palm Coast, FL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100037879Positive fit "lever" feed adapter for paintball gun - A positive fit feed adapter for use between a paintball loader and a paintball gun. The feed adapter includes a threaded connector formed on either the paintball gun or the paintball loader. The threaded connector includes a plurality of expansion slots that allow the outer diameter of the connector to expand or compress. The feed adapter further includes a collet having an internally threaded surface that is tapered from a first end to a second end. When the feed tube from the other of the paintball gun and the paintball loader is inserted into the threaded connector, the collet is tightened along the external threads to reduce the diameter of the connector to provide a positive fit between the paintball gun and the paintball loader.02-18-2010

Fred L. Hatcher, Parker, CO US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110105907Real Time Ultrasound Probe - An external ultrasound probe assembly capable of scanning a three-dimensional volume is provided. The ultrasound probe assembly contains a plurality of ultrasonic transducers disposed along a longitudinal axis of the probe assembly. The plurality of ultrasonic transducers is disposed on a mechanism operable to reciprocally pivot the plurality of ultrasonic transducers enabling the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to scan the entire three-dimensional volume. A helically disposed electrical interconnection member may be disposed about a pivot axis of the plurality of ultrasonic transducers and may electrically interconnect the plurality of ultrasonic transducers to an ultrasound imaging system. The ultrasound probe assembly may be fluid filled and contain bubble position control and fluid expansion compensation features.05-05-2011

Jeremy Hatcher, Urbana, IL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080213915SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF MULTIPLE FLUORESCENCE EMISSIONS IN A FLOW CYTOMETRY SYSTEM - A system and method for the measurement of multiple fluorescence emissions in a flow cytometry system is disclosed where each excitation light source is modulated with a different frequency. A single detector is used to collect the fluorescent emissions excited by all light sources, and the emissions are segregated using Fourier Transform techniques. Systems and methods for the correction of inter-beam coincidence are also disclosed.09-04-2008

Jeremy T. Hatcher, Urbana, IL US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090176271Systems for Efficient Staining and Sorting of Populations of Cells - A multi-channel apparatus for classifying particles according to one or more particle characteristics. The apparatus comprises a plurality of flow cytometry units, each of which is operable to classify particles in a mixture of particles by interrogating a stream of fluid containing the particles with a beam of electromagnetic radiation. The flow cytometry units share an integrated platform comprising at least one of the following: (1) a common supply of particles; (2) a common housing; (3) a common processor for controlling operation of the units; (4) a common processor for receiving and processing information from the units; and (5) a common fluid delivery system. The integrated platform can include a common source of electromagnetic radiation. A method of the invention comprises using a plurality of flow cytometry units sharing the integrated platform to perform a flow kilometric operation, such as analyzing or sorting particles.07-09-2009
20100248362Apparatus and Methods for Sorting Particles - A multi-channel apparatus for classifying particles according to one or more particle characteristics. The apparatus comprises a plurality of flow cytometry units, each of which is operable to classify particles in a mixture of particles by interrogating a stream of fluid containing the particles with a beam of electromagnetic radiation. The flow cytometry units share an integrated platform comprising at least one of the following: (1) a common supply of particles; (2) a common housing; (3) a common processor for controlling operation of the units; (4) a common processor for receiving and processing information from the units; and (5) a common fluid delivery system. The integrated platform can include a common source of electromagnetic radiation. A method of the invention comprises using a plurality of flow cytometry units sharing the integrated platform to perform a flow kilometric operation, such as analyzing or sorting particles.09-30-2010
20110215111METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR ORIENTING SPERM IN A FLUID STREAM - A flow cytometry nozzle and method for orienting sperm cells in a fluid flow path including an interior surface of a nozzle. The interior surface of the nozzle having a first, a second and a third axially tapered region for progressively accelerating the speed of a fluid stream in a downstream direction toward a nozzle exit. At least two of the regions having generally elliptical cross sectional shapes oriented in different directions for applying torsional forces to a fluid stream passing there through, tending to bring sperm cells in the stream into a desired orientation.09-08-2011
20110217722PHOTO-DAMAGE APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR SORTING PARTICLES - A system and method for sorting a mixture of stained particles in a fluid flow path, including stained particles from two distinguishable groups. The system and method can include an electromagnetic radiation source for exciting fluorescence emissions from the stained particles, a photodetector for detecting the fluorescence emissions from the stained particles, a processor for classifying the stained particles; and a photo-damaging laser for damaging selected particles in the flow path.09-08-2011
20110217723EPI-ILLUMINATION APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR SORTING PARTICLES - A method and apparatus for sorting stained particles in a fluid stream, each of the method and apparatus including an epi-illumination optics system with a focusing lens. The optics system being operable to direct a beam of electromagnetic radiation through the focusing lens in a forward direction along a beam axis intersecting particles in the fluid stream at said first location so that said particles pass through the beam, resulting in the fluorescence emissions from the particles being directed along said beam axis in a rearward direction.09-08-2011
20110256575DIGITAL SAMPLING APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR SORTING PARTICLES - A system and method for sorting a mixture of stained particles including a digital signal processor for analyzing and classifying the digital information generated from the particles and providing a sorting signal to a sorting system as a function of the analyzed and classified digital information.10-20-2011
20110269175METHODS FOR SORTING PARTICLES - A method of sorting stained particles in a flow cytometer by generating a mathematical model based upon extracted features of waveform pulses produced in response to the stained particles. Waveform pulses can then be analyzed to determine the probability the stained particles belong in either a first or a second population and a decision boundary can be established. Sorting decisions can be made based upon the extracted features of the waveform pulses relative to the decision boundary in combination with other desirability factors for particles or droplets containing the particles.11-03-2011

Patent applications by Jeremy T. Hatcher, Urbana, IL US

John August Hatcher, Auburn, WA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20080296356INSULATED FOOD CRATE - An insulated food crate comprises a generally rectangular, typically cardboard box having separable top and bottom portions with double walls providing insulative properties and also insulating inserts fitted into the top and bottom portions. The box may also have ventilation holes or slots and/or compartments for serving utensils and may be disposable. In alternate embodiments, the insulated food crate may be made from a heat-resistant composite material, such as a reinforced plastic or stainless steel, as a more permanent, durable, and reusable solution. This inexpensive, accessible catering box keeps hot foods hot and cold foods cold while allowing quick and easy access to the foods inside.12-04-2008

Kenneth Hatcher, Smyrna, TN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20120000333ROTARY CUTTING MACHINE - A rotary cutting device includes a body having a cutter blade with a cutting edge and a pressure roller mounted relative to the cutter blade. The cutter blade is configured to rotate about a rotational axis. The pressure roller is rotationally fixed. The cutter blade and the pressure roller are positioned relative to each other such that pressure is applied to a material fed therebetween. As the cutter blade rotates relative to the pressure roller, the pressure applied to the material being fed therebetween allows for a width of material to cut by a cutting edge of rotating cutter blade. An embossing roller may be used in place of the cutter blade to emboss material. The device also includes guide for guiding material into the machine, pressure adjustment for pressure applied to the material, and rotational speed control. A method for using the rotary cutting device is also disclosed.01-05-2012

Kenneth Hatcher, Mt. Ayre, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100292064BIAS TAPE MAKER - A bias tape making device including a housing, a spindle rotatably disposed in the housing for supporting a strip of fabric, at least one bias tape folding tip located in the housing in communication with the spindle for folding the strip of material into a bias tape having folded longitudinal edges, and a heated pressing assembly disposed in the housing for receiving the bias tape and setting the folded longitudinal edges of the bias tape. The device includes a plurality of interchangeable bias tape folding tips to produce a variety of different sized single fold bias tapes.11-18-2010

Mark Shane Hatcher, Pfafftown, NC US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110190107FIVE-SIDED CIGARETTE CARTON PACKAGING - Methods and machines are provided for forming a five-sided carton of packages of smoking articles. A piece of film material is applied to a plurality of packages of smoking articles such that five sides of the plurality of packages are at least partially covered by the film material, but the sixth side remains uncovered. The film material is applied such that the group of packages is sufficiently tightly bound so that none of the packages may slip free from the carton. The sixth side of the plurality of packages in the carton remains exposed so that tax stamps may be easily applied. The film of material may be applied so that a gap is formed relative to the sixth side.08-04-2011

Nathan A. Hatcher, Buda, TX US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090220402NOVEL SULFUR RECOVERY PLANT - Novel sulfur recovery plants, and processes utilizing these plants are disclosed. These apparatuses eliminate the use of a condenser between the waste heat boiler and first Claus catalytic reactors, and also eliminate the use of reheaters in between Claus catalytic reactors.09-03-2009
20100163401SULFUR DEGASSING PROCESS - A process is disclosed for removing hydrogen sulfide from liquid sulfur including: passing a liquid sulfur feed comprising liquid sulfur and hydrogen sulfide to a vaporizer; vaporizing at least a portion of the liquid sulfur feed in the vaporizer to thereby form a first vapor stream comprising gaseous sulfur and gaseous hydrogen sulfide; partially condensing the first vapor stream in a condenser to form a liquid product stream comprising liquid sulfur and a second vapor stream comprising hydrogen sulfide; wherein the liquid product stream has a lower concentration of hydrogen sulfide than the liquid sulfur feed.07-01-2010
20110266135SULFUR DEGASSING PROCESS - A process is disclosed for removing hydrogen sulfide from liquid sulfur including: passing a liquid sulfur feed comprising liquid sulfur and hydrogen sulfide to a vaporizer; vaporizing at least a portion of the liquid sulfur feed in the vaporizer to thereby form a first vapor stream comprising gaseous sulfur and gaseous hydrogen sulfide; partially condensing the first vapor stream in a condenser to form a liquid product stream comprising liquid sulfur and a second vapor stream comprising hydrogen sulfide; wherein the liquid product stream has a lower concentration of hydrogen sulfide than the liquid sulfur feed.11-03-2011

Patent applications by Nathan A. Hatcher, Buda, TX US

Patrick G. Hatcher, Norfolk, VA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090158638Direct Conversion of Biomass to Biodiesel Fuel - Disclosed is the direct conversion process for producing biodiesel from a biomass. The direct conversion process for producing biodiesel from a biomass comprises reacting a feed stock comprising a biomass and an alkylation reagent in a substantially oxygen free environment at a temperature sufficient to hydrolyze one or more lipid glycerides in the biomass and alkylated one or more fatty acids in the reaction. The process may comprise reacting a feed stock comprising an algal biomass and tetramethylammonium hydroxide in a substantially oxygen free environment at a temperature between 250° C. and 500° C. The direct conversion process for producing biodiesel may further comprise reacting oil containing lipid glycerides with an alkylation reagent at a sufficient temperature to esterify the oil. The fatty acid alkyl esters produced from the reacted feed stock are recovered. The recovered fatty acid alkyl esters, as an essential component of biodiesel, may be formulated into biodiesel.06-25-2009
20100031561Raceways for Cultivating Algae - A raceway for cultivating algae in a liquid medium, comprising one or more precipitators positioned along the raceway, and at which precipitators the algal biomass produced in the raceway is precipitated from the liquid medium and concentrated.02-11-2010

Patrick G. Hatcher, Suffolk, VA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20110289830Production of Glycerol-Related Products from a High Temperature Reaction - Disclosed are processes for producing glycerol related products. One process comprises introducing a biomass and an alkylation reagent to a substantially oxygen free environment, hydrolyzing at a temperature at or above 200° C. one or more lipid glycerides in the biomass, methylating one or more fatty acids in the biomass with methyl groups from the alkylation reagent, wherein the hydrolyzing and methylating occur contemporaneously and separating resulting biodiesel and methylated glycerol-related products from a residue of the biomass by condensation.12-01-2011
20110314881Process for the Selective Production of Hydrocarbon Based Fuels from Algae Utilizing Water at Subcritical Conditions - Disclosed herein is the production of hydrocarbon based fuel from micro-organisms and algae that comprise algaenan without requiring prior removal of water, as well as the production of hydrocarbon based fuel directly from the algaenan itself. Also disclosed herein are feed material for the processes disclosed herein comprising modified algae and algaenan that selectively produce hydrocarbon of desired chain lengths, along with the process of modifying the algae and algaenan. Also disclosed herein is the production of both hydrocarbon and organic fertilizer from algae without the need to remove the water from the algae prior to processing.12-29-2011

Rick L. Hatcher, Cicero, IN US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100186217LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.07-29-2010
20100202623LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.08-12-2010
20100205622LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.08-12-2010
20110292609LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-01-2011
20110292616LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-01-2011
20110292769LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-01-2011
20110299251LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-08-2011
20110299261LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-08-2011
20110299698LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-08-2011
20110299699LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-08-2011
20110299700LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-08-2011
20110301906LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-08-2011
20110305350LIGHTWEIGHT AUDIO SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS AND METHOD - A lightweight radio/CD player for vehicular application is virtually “fastenerless” and includes a case and frontal interface formed of polymer based material that is molded to provide details to accept audio devices such as playback mechanisms (if desired) and radio receivers, as well as the circuit boards required for electrical control and display. The case and frontal interface are of composite structure, including an insert molded electrically conductive wire mesh screen that has been pre-formed to contour with the molding operation. The wire mesh provides EMC, RFI, BCI and ESD shielding and grounding of the circuit boards via exposed wire mesh pads and adjacent ground clips. The PCB architecture is bifurcated into a first board carrying common circuit components in a surface mount configuration suitable for high volume production, and a second board carrying application specific circuit components in a wave soldered stick mount configuration. The major components and subassemblies are self-fixturing during the final assembly process, eliminating the need for dedicated tools, fixtures and assembly equipment. The major components and subassemblies self-interconnect by integral guide and connection features effecting “slide lock” and “snap lock” self-interconnection. The radio architecture includes improved push buttons employing 4-bar living hinge linkage and front loaded decorative trim buttons.12-15-2011

Patent applications by Rick L. Hatcher, Cicero, IN US

Robert F. Hatcher, Macon, GA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100218959Method and device for suppression of fire by local flooding with ultra-fine water mist - A method and device for suppression of fires related to heating appliances, vent hoods and work benches through deployment of very fine mist droplets, preferably less 100 micron diameter, into the firebase. A low momentum, high mist loading fine mist stream is introduced about the firebase. Mist is discharged to the firebase through diffusers or swirl channels so that the mist surrounding the firebase will be entrained into the firebase to secure and suppress the fire. After the fire is suppressed, the fine mist is further discharged to the hot oil surface for cooling.09-02-2010

Stephen Hatcher, Dillsburg, PA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090133769STRUCTURE OF HOSE - A hose includes at least an inner-layer tubular member, an intermediate layer, and an outer-layer tubular member. Both the inner-layer tubular member and the outer-layer tubular member are made of plastics. The intermediate layer is formed by wrapping a net. An outer surface of the intermediate layer is provided with a helical structure made of plastics and the outer-layer tubular member encloses the helical structure. The helical structure has a mechanical strength greater than the outer-layer tubular member. Since both the helical structure and the outer-layer tubular member are similarly made of plastics, the bonding strength therebetween can be enhanced. When the hose is subjected to bending, the helical structure helps to prevent the hose from being compressed and deformed, thereby maintaining the inside diameter of the hose to ensure smooth flow of liquid or gas through the hose.05-28-2009

Stephen D. Hatcher, Camp Hill, PA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20100108799RETRACTABLE HOSE GUIDE - A retractable hose guide includes a shell assembly that is structured to be embedded into the ground. The shell assembly defines an enclosed space that is open at the top. A guide rod assembly is movably disposed within the shell assembly and structured to move between a first, retracted position, wherein the guide rod assembly is substantially disposed within the shell assembly enclosed space, and a second, extended position, wherein the guide rod assembly extends substantially above the shell assembly enclosed space. A pop-up device includes components on both the shell assembly and the guide rod assembly that act in concert to lock the guide rod assembly in either the first or second position. The pop-up device preferably includes a biasing device structured to bias the guide rod assembly toward the second, extended position. The pop-up device is structured to be actuated by a generally linear movement of the guide rod assembly.05-06-2010
20110036937RETRACTABLE HOSE GUIDE - A retractable hose guide includes a shell assembly that is structured to be embedded into the ground. The shell assembly defines an enclosed space that is open at the top. A guide rod assembly is movably disposed within the shell assembly and structured to move between a first, retracted position, wherein the guide rod assembly is substantially disposed within the shell assembly enclosed space, and a second, extended position, wherein the guide rod assembly extends substantially above the shell assembly enclosed space. A pop-up device includes components on both the shell assembly and the guide rod assembly that act in concert to lock the guide rod assembly in either the first or second position. The pop-up device preferably includes a biasing device structured to bias the guide rod assembly toward the second, extended position. The pop-up device is structured to be actuated by a generally linear movement of the guide rod assembly.02-17-2011
20110221147TRIANGULAR LOOP HANDLE WITH THREE GRIPS - A handle for a wheelbarrow is provided. The handle has a body with a handle portion and a coupling device. The handle portion has three grips. The handle body forms a loop having arcuate transition portions between the grips. The grips are angled relative to the wheelbarrow frame assembly handle shafts so as to provide the user with a comfortable grip during both transport of the wheelbarrow as well as during a lifting motion of the handles.09-15-2011

Stephen D. Hatcher, Dillsburg, PA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090151484Folding crank handle for hose reel - A crank assembly having a crank arm with a handle member pivotally coupled thereto is provided. The handle member includes a lock assembly with a crank component and a handle component. The crank component includes a latch surface on a crank arm outer surface. The lock assembly handle component is, preferably, at least one extension extending from the handle member and structured to engage the latch surface. The lock assembly handle component further has a release device structured to disengage the at least one extension from the latch surface. The release device is accessible from the crank arm outer surface. In this configuration, a user may easily access the release device because the release device is located on the outer surface of the crank arm.06-18-2009
20090230371PLASTIC FENCE - A molded plastic fence having a unitary front fence section and a unitary rear fence section is provided. The unitary front fence section and the unitary rear fence section are coupled together to form a fence without visible molding artifacts. To emulate a traditional wooden fence, the fence sections preferably include various fence elements such as posts, slats and rails. The fence elements on each fence section typically have a planar member with an inner side and a raised edge extending from the inner side. The molding artifacts are disposed on the inner sides of the fence elements. The unitary front fence section and a unitary rear fence section are coupled with the raised edges engaging each other. In this configuration the molding artifacts are hidden from view and the fence elements appear as solid.09-17-2009
20090273198Weed Removal Tool - A manually operable weed remover consists of a cluster of pivotable and rotatable spikes attached to a handle. When positioned over the center of a weed and downward pressure is applied, either by pushing on a bar handle or stepping on a foot rest, a bottom flange is forced up by the ground surface as the spikes are forced into the ground around the weed. The spikes are directed through apertures in the moveable flange and movement of the flange causes the spikes to close around the root of the weed. The insertion motion of the spikes further causes the spike mounting device to rotate relative to the handle and the weed. Thus, as the spikes are being inserted into the ground, the spikes rotate thereby separating the weed root from the adjacent ground. The weed may then be pulled from the ground by upward pressure on the tool.11-05-2009
20100244475EXTENDABLE REACHING TOOL - An extendable tool having an internal drive assembly is disclosed. The extendable components of the internal drive assembly are two, or more, telescoping drive shafts each having an alignment structure. The alignment structure ensures that the drive shafts generally maintain their circumferential alignment relative to each other, i.e. the shafts rotate together and maintain their orientation, while allowing the drive shafts to slide axially relative to each other. In one embodiment the drive shafts have a non-circular cross-section, and more preferably, a square cross-section. Each inner drive shaft has a cross-sectional area that is slightly smaller than the next larger outer drive shaft. Thus, the drive shafts may slide axially relative to each other. However, when the drive shafts are rotated, the non-circular shape causes the inner drive shaft and the larger outer drive shaft to engage each other and rotate together.09-30-2010

William Henry Hatcher, Natural Bridge, VA US

Patent application numberDescriptionPublished
20090084304Emergency safety reflector for automotive vehicles - An emergency safety reflector for an automotive vehicle utilized by an individual to visually warn motorists of an accident or vehicle disablement includes a v-shaped orange reflector having a pair of pivotally interconnected arms with a window hook attached to one arm and a pad secured to the other arm so that the emergency safety reflector can be mounted to a vehicle window and for ground placement of the emergency safety reflector the v-shaped orange reflector is attached to a cylindrical tube with the tube being mounted to a cylindrical weighted base so that the v-shaped reflector extends outwardly from the tube and both the tube and the base are composed of an orange colored or coated illuminative and reflective material or covered with an orange reflective tape whereupon one or more emergency safety reflectors can either be mounted to the vehicle window or placed around and about the vehicle to provide maximum advance warning for motorists, especially at night, of a disabled vehicle or upcoming hazardous and dangerous road or highway condition.04-02-2009