Swanson, MN
Alan Benjamin Swanson, Pine Island, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20080301109 | MODIFICATION OF A SAVED DATABASE QUERY BASED ON A CHANGE IN THE MEANING OF A QUERY VALUE OVER TIME - An apparatus and method modify a saved query based on a change in a query value meaning that changes over time. In preferred embodiments a graphical query interface displays an option to adjust query values of a saved database query. A query adjustment mechanism then adjusts the value of the query to compensate for the change in the meaning of the query value since the query was created such that the adjusted query will have the same basic meaning as when the query was originally created. Preferred Embodiments allow the user to specify to adjust the query to the current date or to a specified date in the past. | 12-04-2008 |
20080301110 | MODIFICATION OF A SAVED DATABASE QUERY BASED ON A CHANGE IN THE MEANING OF A QUERY VALUE OVER TIME - An apparatus and method modify a saved query based on a change in a query value meaning that changes over time. In preferred embodiments a graphical query interface displays an option to adjust query values of a saved database query. A query adjustment mechanism then adjusts the value of the query to compensate for the change in the meaning of the query value since the query was created such that the adjusted query will have the same basic meaning as when the query was originally created. Preferred Embodiments allow the user to specify to adjust the query to the current date or to a specified date in the past. | 12-04-2008 |
20080301131 | MODIFICATION OF A SAVED DATABASE QUERY BASED ON A CHANGE IN THE MEANING OF A QUERY VALUE OVER TIME - An apparatus and method modify a saved query based on a change in a query value meaning that changes over time. In preferred embodiments a graphical query interface displays an option to adjust query values of a saved database query. A query adjustment mechanism then adjusts the value of the query to compensate for the change in the meaning of the query value since the query was created such that the adjusted query will have the same basic meaning as when the query was originally created. Preferred Embodiments allow the user to specify to adjust the query to the current date or to a specified date in the past. | 12-04-2008 |
Andrew Swanson, Bayport, MN US
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20100159795 | Low conductivity balloons and methods of producing same - The present invention relates to articles and methods for producing non-latex balloons with low surface electrical conductivities and an extended product life. In a preferred embodiment, a multilayer composite film having an exposed metallized layer is coated with an elastomeric sealant layer that increases electrical resistivity of the balloon product to greater than 1.0 | 06-24-2010 |
20110223828 | LOW CONDUCTIVITY BALLOONS AND METHODS OF PRODUCING SAME - The present invention relates to articles and methods for producing non-latex balloons with low surface electrical conductivities and an extended product life. In a preferred embodiment, a multilayer composite film having an exposed metallized layer is coated with an elastomeric sealant layer that increases electrical resistivity of the balloon product to greater than 1.0 | 09-15-2011 |
20120035034 | LOW CONDUCTIVITY BALLOONS AND METHODS OF PRODUCING SAME - The present invention relates to articles and methods for producing non-latex balloons with low surface electrical conductivities and an extended product life. In a preferred embodiment, a multilayer composite film having an exposed metalized layer is coated with an elastomeric sealant layer that increases electrical resistivity of the balloon product to greater than 1.0 | 02-09-2012 |
Andrew Thomas Swanson, Shakopee, MN US
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20100287801 | LOCALIZED SEALANT APPLICATION IN AEROSTATS - Formation of an aerostat through the application of a pressure sensitive adhesive onto one or more barrier films at the desired point of bonding between the films. The adhesive is applied about the periphery prior to the point of bonding the two barrier films together. The method of the present invention results in aerostats with a bond line at the edge of the desired shape. The reduced weight, in comparison to conventional practices employing a heat sealing layer, enables intricate designs and smaller volume aerostats. | 11-18-2010 |
Brian Swanson, St. Paul, MN US
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20100094226 | SLITTABLE DELIVERY DEVICE ASSEMBLY FOR THE DELIVERY OF A CARDIAC SURGICAL DEVICE - An assembly for the delivery of a cardiac surgical device is disclosed herein. In one embodiment, the assembly includes a slittable delivery device and a bypass assembly. The slittable delivery device may include a hub, a shaft integrated into the hub and forming at least a segment of the circumferential surface of the hub, and a hemostasis valve contained substantially within the hub. The bypass assembly may include a cap and a valve bypass tool. The cap may be on a proximal end of the hub and may include an opening in the cap extending radially outward from a point near a radial center of the cap through a circumferential edge of the cap. The valve bypass tool may be operably coupled to the cap and may include a longitudinally extending open channel. | 04-15-2010 |
Carl W. Swanson, Mendota Heights, MN US
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20140089769 | CONTENT ADDRESSABLE MEMORY CONTINUOUS ERROR DETECTION WITH INTERLEAVE PARITY - Aspects of the disclosure pertain to a system and method for promoting improved error detection efficiency in a Content-Addressable Memory (CAM). The system and method provide CAM continuous error detection with interleave parity. The system continuously monitors for changes in cell contents and, when (e.g., as soon as) a soft error occurs, the error detection output bit for that entry will change, causing an error flag at chip level. The system can then immediately stop compare operations and rewrite the failing entry. Separate read operations are not needed to check for errors, thereby decreasing overall dynamic power usage and increasing possible search frequency for the system. | 03-27-2014 |
Craig Swanson, Perham, MN US
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20110259699 | Clutch System and Methods - Some embodiments of a clutch system or method include a fan clutch device having a clutch shut-off system permits a cooling fan to continue to provide airflow even when the friction ring is worn down to a level that requires replacement. | 10-27-2011 |
20140367935 | MODULAR VISCOUS FAN CLUTCH SYSTEM - A viscous clutch head may be replaced by selecting a viscous clutch head and a mount adapter. The viscous clutch head and the mount adapter may be selected from a group of universal modular fan drives and from a group of mount adapters. The mount adapter of a threaded type or a flange and bolt type may be selected. Depending on the viscous clutch head to be replaced, a fan adapter and/or a pilot adapter may also be selected from a group of fan adapters and from a group of pilot adapters. Accordingly, a range of models of viscous fan clutch systems may be replaced by using a limited number of parts. These parts may be stored on a tool cart. As different models of viscous fan clutch systems may be replaced using a limited number of parts, the in-stock inventory of replacement parts may be reduced. | 12-18-2014 |
Craig M. Swanson, Perham, MN US
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20090014273 | Clutch System - A clutch system may include in certain embodiments a clutch body attached to a drive member such as a drive pulley, wherein the clutch body may be removed from the drive member without disassembling the clutch body. In various embodiments, the clutch body may include two clutch plates which enclose a spring-loaded pneumatic reciprocating assembly that in operation causes the plates to selectively separate and engage one another. In certain embodiments, the clutch body may be readily attached to a associated drive pulley in a single step by installation of a single set of fasteners. | 01-15-2009 |
20090183963 | Clutch Device and Methods - Some embodiments of a clutch system may drive an output member to rotate at a first speed when the opposing clutch surfaces are engaged and to rotate at a second speed when the clutch surfaces are shifted to a disengaged position. In particular embodiments, the multi-speed clutch system may employ an eddy current drive system that causes the output portion to rotate even when the opposing clutch surfaces are disengaged. | 07-23-2009 |
20090236196 | CLUTCH SYSTEM AND METHOD - A clutch system may include in certain embodiments a clutch body attached to a drive member such as a drive pulley, wherein the clutch body may be removed from the drive member without disassembling the clutch body. In various embodiments, the clutch body may include two clutch plates which enclose a spring-loaded pneumatic reciprocating assembly that in operation causes the plates to selectively separate and engage one another. In certain embodiments, the clutch body may be readily attached to a associated drive pulley in a single step by installation of a single set of fasteners. | 09-24-2009 |
20100038205 | Clutch System - A clutch system may include in certain embodiments a clutch body attached to a drive member such as a drive pulley, wherein the clutch body may be removed from the drive member without disassembling the clutch body. In various embodiments, the clutch body may include two clutch plates which enclose a spring-loaded pneumatic reciprocating assembly that in operation causes the plates to selectively separate and engage one another. In certain embodiments, the clutch body may be readily attached to a associated drive pulley in a single step by installation of a single set of fasteners. | 02-18-2010 |
20100282562 | CLUTCH SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Some embodiments of a clutch system may an output member and an input member can be biased to engage one another along opposing clutch surfaces. When input member drives rotation of the output member and a fan blade device secured thereto, the resulting fan thrust provides supplemental engagement to the opposing clutch surfaces. | 11-11-2010 |
20110180362 | FAN CLUTCH APPARATUS AND METHODS - Some embodiments of a fan clutch system may drive an output member to rotate at a first speed when opposing friction clutch surfaces are engaged and to rotate at a second, slower speed when the friction clutch surfaces are shifted to a disengaged position. In particular embodiments, the multi-speed clutch system may employ an eddy current drive system that is arranged axially rearward of the friction clutch surfaces while the fan blade device is mounted in a position that is axially forward of the of the friction clutch surfaces. | 07-28-2011 |
20110207577 | FAN CLUTCH SYSTEM AND METHOD - Some embodiments of a fan clutch system for use in a vehicle can provide efficient access to one or more components for inspection and service even after the fan clutch system is installed in the vehicle. In particular embodiments, the fan clutch system can include a fan clutch device and a coil retainer assembly that are removably mounted to a right-angle gear box assembly in a manner that permits a technician to accessing at least one component for inspection, repair, or replacement. The coil retainer assembly may at least partially house an electromagnetic coil for selective activation. The system may further include a fan clutch device removably mounted to the drive member of the gear box assembly. | 08-25-2011 |
20120164002 | VISCOUS TWO-SPEED CLUTCH - Some embodiments of a clutch system may drive an output portion to rotate at a first rotational speed when the clutch surfaces are engaged and to rotate at a second rotational speed when the clutch surfaces are shifted to a disengaged position. The viscous two-speed clutch system may employ a viscous drive system that causes the output portion to rotate even when the clutch surfaces are disengaged. In such circumstances, the cooling fan can be driven to rotate at a first rotation speed due to interconnection with a drive source and to rotate at a second rotational speed even when the clutch surfaces are disengaged. Thus, the clutch system facilitates the flow of cooling air both when the vehicle cooling system activates the fan (e.g. by causing the clutch surface to engage) and when the vehicle cooling system deactivates the fan (e.g. by causing the clutch surfaces to disengage). | 06-28-2012 |
20140209427 | FAN CLUTCH SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ACCESSING COMPONENTS OF THE FAN CLUTCH SYSTEM - Some embodiments of a fan clutch system for use in a vehicle can provide efficient access to one or more components for inspection and service even after the fan clutch system is installed in the vehicle. In particular embodiments, the fan clutch system can include a fan clutch device and a coil retainer assembly that are removably mounted to a right-angle gear box assembly in a manner that permits a technician to accessing at least one component for inspection, repair, or replacement. The coil retainer assembly may at least partially house an electromagnetic coil for selective activation. The system may further include a fan clutch device removably mounted to the drive member of the gear box assembly. | 07-31-2014 |
20140209492 | MODULAR VISCOUS FAN CLUTCH SYSTEM - A viscous clutch head may be replaced by selecting a viscous clutch head and a mount adapter. The viscous clutch head and the mount adapter may be selected from a group of universal modular fan drives and from a group of mount adapters. The mount adapter of a threaded type or a flange and bolt type may be selected. Depending on the viscous clutch head to be replaced, a fan adapter and/or a pilot adapter may also be selected from a group of fan adapters and from a group of pilot adapters. Accordingly, a range of models of viscous fan clutch systems may be replaced by using a limited number of parts. These parts may be stored on a tool cart. As different models of viscous fan clutch systems may be replaced using a limited number of parts, the in-stock inventory of replacement parts may be reduced. | 07-31-2014 |
20140299436 | FAN CLUTCH APPARATUS AND METHODS - Some embodiments of a fan clutch system may drive an output member to rotate at a first speed when opposing friction clutch surfaces are engaged and to rotate at a second, slower speed when the friction clutch surfaces are shifted to a disengaged position. In particular embodiments, the multi-speed clutch system may employ an eddy current drive system that is arranged axially rearward of the friction clutch surfaces while the fan blade device is mounted in a position that is axially forward of the of the friction clutch surfaces. | 10-09-2014 |
Darrin Swanson, Perham, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20100282562 | CLUTCH SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Some embodiments of a clutch system may an output member and an input member can be biased to engage one another along opposing clutch surfaces. When input member drives rotation of the output member and a fan blade device secured thereto, the resulting fan thrust provides supplemental engagement to the opposing clutch surfaces. | 11-11-2010 |
Gregory Swanson, Inver Grove Heights, MN US
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20110010133 | WIRELESS DATA LOGGING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A data acquisition system including a first sensor, a second sensor, and an electronic data acquisition device. The sensors can assume a variety of forms, such as analog, digital, bus, GPS, etc., and have disparate information formats. The data acquisition unit is electronically coupled to the sensors, and includes a processor, an aggregator module and a communication device. The processor processes information from the sensors. The aggregator module correlates signaled information from the first sensor with signaled information from the second sensor based on time. Finally, the communication device is adapted to transmit information generated by the aggregator module to a location remote of the housing. | 01-13-2011 |
James Swanson, Eagan, MN US
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20150112738 | RESERVING VENUE FOR CALENDAR EVENT - Provided is a system for reserving a venue for a calendar event. The system may comprise a processor and a database. The processor may be configured to receive an invitation to the calendar event from an event organizer, gather data about the event, and define event requirements based on the data. Based on the event requirements and a permission of the organizer, the processor determines suitable venues. The suitable venues are ranked based on information on the organizer, invitees, event data, and venue data, and optimal venues are identified. A predefined number of optimal venues is sent to the organizer. The organizer selects a venue from the presented options and provides payment information. The processor reserves the selected venue and collects a payment using the payment information. The database stores at least available venues, the data about the calendar event, event requirements, suitable venues, optimal venues, and the selected venue. | 04-23-2015 |
Jeffrey Swanson, Cambridge, MN US
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20100137929 | IMPLANTABLE MEDICAL DEVICE INCLUDING A PLURALITY OF LEAD CONNECTION ASSEMBLIES - An implantable medical device (IMD) may include at least two separate lead connection assemblies, each with electrical connectors for connecting implantable leads to the IMD. In some examples, a IMD may include a first therapy module configured to generate a first electrical stimulation therapy and a second therapy module configured to generate a second electrical stimulation therapy for delivery to the patient. The IMD may include a first lead connection assembly including a first electrical connector electrically coupled to the first therapy module and a second lead connection assembly including a second electrical connector electrically coupled to the second therapy module. In some examples, the first and second lead connection assemblies are distributed around the outer perimeter of the IMD housing. | 06-03-2010 |
Jeffrey A. Swanson, Cambridge, MN US
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20110160784 | DIVERSE CAPACITOR PACKAGING FOR MAXIMIZING VOLUMETRIC EFFICIENCY FOR MEDICAL DEVICES - Capacitor packaging according to the disclosure provides advantages particularly in connection to compact and/or complex-shaped medical devices (e.g., having limited interior volume defined by domed and/or irregular exterior surfaces). In addition, capacitors of the type shown and described herein can be utilized in relatively compact external defibrillators, such as automatic external defibrillators or clinician-grade, automated or manually-operated external defibrillators. In one form a plurality of capacitors having substantially flat exterior surfaces are placed in an abutting relationship between at least a pair of major surfaces and the major surfaces are spaced from an opposing or adjacent surface in a non-parallel configuration. In other forms, one or more exterior surface portions have a common and/or complex radius dimension (i.e., the surfaces are curved). | 06-30-2011 |
20150306402 | DOWN THE BORE WITH OPEN WINDOWS AND MANUFACTURING THEREOF - An implantable medical device connector assembly and method of manufacture include a molded, insulative shell having an inner surface forming a connector bore, a circuit member including one or more traces extending through apertures in the connector shell. One or more conductive members, positioned along the connector bore, are electrically coupled to the traces. The sealing members are positioned between the conductive members. | 10-29-2015 |
20160028181 | DOWN THE BORE WITH OPEN WINDOWS AND MANUFACTURING THEREOF - An implantable medical device connector assembly and method of manufacture include a molded, insulative shell having an inner surface forming a connector bore, a circuit member including one or more traces extending through apertures in the connector shell. One or more conductive members, positioned along the connector bore, are electrically coupled to the traces. The sealing members are positioned between the conductive members. | 01-28-2016 |
Jerome E. Swanson, St. Paul, MN US
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20130288194 | FLUORIDE VARNISH - A tooth varnish that is free from pinus extracts, free of substantial undesired coloring agents, with a reduced viscosity, delivered in a user-friendly, flow-through, unit dose applicator and having improved fluoride release, uptake, and remineralization properties. | 10-31-2013 |
20140162208 | FLUORIDE VARNISH - A tooth varnish that is free from pinus extracts, free of substantial undesired coloring agents, with a reduced viscosity, delivered in a user-friendly, flow-through, unit dose applicator and having improved fluoride release, uptake, and remineralization properties. | 06-12-2014 |
20150342844 | FLUORIDE VARNISH - A tooth varnish that is free from pinus extracts, free of substantial undesired coloring agents, with a reduced viscosity, delivered in a user-friendly, flow-through, unit dose applicator and having improved fluoride release, uptake, and remineralization properties. | 12-03-2015 |
Joel Swanson, Hopkins, MN US
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20150127165 | REMOTE BUILDING MONITORING SYSTEM WITH CONTRACTOR LOCATOR - A system allows a contractor to remotely monitor and/or interact with its customers' building control systems, such as heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and analyze information obtained from the building control systems over time. Such a system may help the contractor monitor and diagnosis customer building control systems, setup service calls, achieve better customer relations, create more effective marketing opportunities, as well as other functions. In some cases, the disclosed system may include a controller that outputs a listing of one or more building automation system contractors having a service area that overlaps a geographical location of a customer or a potential customer or of a related HVAC system. In some cases, the disclosed system may output a listing of one or more building automation system contractors having a service area that overlaps a geographical location of a building automation system for which an alert has been indicated. | 05-07-2015 |
Julie Swanson, Minneapolis, MN US
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20090148545 | METHODS OF USE AND NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITIONS OF TOUCHI EXTRACT - Disclosed is a method and composition for nutritional compositions containing -glucosidase inhibitors, and more specifically Touchi Extract and its uses in the treatment of many disorders. These disorders include diabetes, hyperlipidemia, obesity, Metabolic syndrome/Syndrome X, COPD, malabsorption, Crohn's disease, diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome, human immunodeficiency virus, cystic fibrosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, polycystic ovarian syndrome including associate infertility, and erectile dysfunction. Further, -glucosidase inhibitors, and more specifically Touchi Extract can be used to aid healing in critical care patients and for general wound healing. Additionally, -glucosidase inhibitors, including Touchi Extract can be used to enhance athletic performance. | 06-11-2009 |
Julie Ann Swanson, Minneapolis, MN US
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20120269865 | NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION FOR PROMOTING GUT MICROBIOTA BALANCE AND HEALTH - The present disclosure relates to nutritional compositions comprising a fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) in an amount of 35 to 44% by weight; a polysaccharide that is not a partially hydrolyzed guar gum such as, for example, an arabinogalactan in an amount of 50% to 38% by weight; and inulin in an amount of 12% to 24% by weight. The FOS and the polysaccharide may be present in a weight ratio of about 1:1. More specifically, the FOS and inulin may be present in a weight ratio of about 7:3. Also provided are methods of promoting gut microbiota balance and health. The methods include administering an effective amount of the nutritional composition to patients in need of same. | 10-25-2012 |
20150079004 | METHODS FOR INCREASING SWALLOWING EFFICACY - In a general embodiment, a method for increasing efficacy of a swallow response is provided. The method includes providing a thickened composition having a xanthan gum thickening component, and orally administering the composition to an individual having, or at risk of having, a swallowing impairment. In an embodiment, the efficacy of the swallow response is increased by reducing an amount of pharyngeal residue in the individual's piriform sinuses, valleculae, and/or pharyngeal wall during or after the individual swallows the composition. | 03-19-2015 |
20160100617 | NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION FOR PROMOTING GUT MICROBIOTA BALANCE AND HEALTH - Nutritional compositions are provided that comprise a fructo-oligosaccharaide (FOS) in an amount of 35 to 44% by weight; a polysaccharide that is not a partially hydrolyzed guar gum such as, for example, an arabinogalactan in an amount of 50% to 38% by weight; and inulin in an amount of 12% to 24% by weight. The FOS and the polysaccharide may be present in a weight ratio of about 1:1. More specifically, the FOS and inulin may be present in a weight ratio of about 7:3. Also provided are methods of promoting gut micro biota balance and health. The methods include administering an effective amount of the nutritional composition to patients in need of same. | 04-14-2016 |
Karen L. Swanson, Rochester, MN US
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20150141868 | NEEDLE BIOPSY SYSTEMS AND METHODS - This document provides medical device systems and methods for obtaining tissue samples. For example, this document provides medical device systems and methods for transbronchial needle biopsy tissue acquisition. In some cases, a needle biopsy system includes an actuator device, an outer needle with a lumen therethrough, and an inner needle at least partially disposed within the lumen. The outer needle can extend distally from the actuator device. A distal tip of the inner needle can be capable of being fully disposed within the lumen. The inner needle can extend distally from the actuator device. The actuator device can be configured to translate the outer needle proximally and distally. The actuator device can be configured to translate the inner needle proximally and distally independently of the outer needle. | 05-21-2015 |
Kevin Swanson, Plymouth, MN US
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20140257197 | MULTIPLE DOSAGE INJECTOR WITH RACK AND PINION DOSAGE SYSTEM - A dispensing mechanism for delivering a dosage of medicament including a housing, a push button, a crank arm that is slideably engageable with the push button, a ram, and a ratchet gear releasably engageable with the crank arm and ram, translation of the push button along an axis causing the crank arm to engage and rotate the ratchet gear which causes the ram to distally advance relative to the housing. | 09-11-2014 |
Kevin Swanson, Elk River, MN US
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20110140490 | Furniture Protection Systems and Method - Some embodiments of a furniture cover device provide a protective covering for a selected furniture piece, such as a couch, loveseat, or chair, and the furniture cover device can be readily removed or repositioned by user. In particular embodiments, the furniture cover device includes a main body comprising a flexible web and a plurality of elongate anchor members extending in a parallel manner through the flexible web. | 06-16-2011 |
Kevin D. Swanson, Plymouth, MN US
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20150190311 | LIQUID-TRANSFER ADAPTER BEVELED SPIKE - A liquid-transfer adapter operatively interposable between an injector and a vial is provided. The liquid-transfer has an injector engaging portion configured for fluidly coupling to an injector and a vial coupling. The vial coupling includes a spike that has a spike axis and a tip portion configured for piercing a septum of a vial. The tip portion includes a plurality of facets that meet each other at one or more edges and at least one of the one or more edges is sloped with respect to the spike axis. The spike defines a channel extending therethrough in fluid communication with the injector engaging portion. A channel opening is defined in at least one of the facets and disposed without interrupting the edges. | 07-09-2015 |
20160101021 | LIQUID-TRANSFER ADAPTER BEVELED SPIKE - A liquid-transfer adapter operatively interposable between an injector and a vial is provided. The adapter has an injector engaging portion configured for fluidly coupling to an injector and a vial coupling. The vial coupling includes a spike that has a spike axis and a tip portion configured for piercing a septum of a vial. The tip portion includes a plurality of facets that meet each other at one or more edges and at least one of the one or more edges is sloped with respect to the spike axis. The spike defines a channel extending therethrough in fluid communication with the injector engaging portion. A channel opening is defined in at least one of the facets and disposed without interrupting the edges. | 04-14-2016 |
Kevin D. Swanson, Elk River, MN US
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20100145343 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SCULPTING THE SURFACE OF A JOINT - Methods and devices for sculpting bones, particularly in preparation for implanting prosthetic devices to replace articulating bone joint surfaces. Improved bone removal devices including burr mills driven by gears and loop drives are provided. Reciprocating cutters and belt cutters are also provided. Some devices have either integral or removable expandable portions to vary the force and bone resection depth. Devices can have irrigation ports and plenums to remove bone fragments. Some cutters are dual cutters, adapted to remove bone in two or more regions, such as the knee joint, simultaneously. | 06-10-2010 |
Kevin David Swanson, Plymouth, MN US
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20160049098 | Injector Training Device - A training device for training a user on the operation of an auto-injector that dispenses a medicament. A needle guard is slidable from a first extended position relative to a housing prior to operation of the training device, to a retracted position during operation of the training device, and to a second extended position after operation of the training device. An actuation assembly controls the movement of the needle guard from the retracted position to the second extended position. A lock locks the needle guard in the second extended position. A safety is proximate a proximal end of the housing and prevents movement of the needle guard from the first extended position to the retracted position in a storage position. The needle guard is moveable into the retracted position with the safety in an armed position. The safety resets the lock upon returning the safety to the storage position. | 02-18-2016 |
Kevin David Swanson, Elk River, MN US
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20130018354 | LIQUID-TRANSFER ADAPTER BEVELED SPIKEAANM Sund; Julius CraigAACI PlymouthAAST MNAACO USAAGP Sund; Julius Craig Plymouth MN USAANM Swanson; Kevin DavidAACI Elk RiverAAST MNAACO USAAGP Swanson; Kevin David Elk River MN US - A liquid-transfer adapter operatively interposable between an injector and a vial is provided. The adapter has an injector engaging portion configured for fluidly coupling to an injector and a vial coupling. The vial coupling includes a spike that has a spike axis and a tip portion configured for piercing a septum of a vial. The tip portion includes a plurality of facets that meet each other at one or more edges and at least one of the one or more edges is sloped with respect to the spike axis. The spike defines a channel extending therethrough in fluid communication with the injector engaging portion. A channel opening is defined in at least one of the facets and disposed without interrupting the edges. | 01-17-2013 |
Kurt C. Swanson, Hutchinson, MN US
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20110026166 | MULTI-LAYER GROUND PLANE STRUCTURES FOR INTEGRATED LEAD SUSPENSIONS - Multi-layer ground plane structures and methods of manufacture for integrated lead suspension flexures. A flexure in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes an insulating layer, a plurality of traces on the insulating layer and a stainless steel base layer on the side of the insulating layer opposite the traces. The stainless steel base layer includes one or more void portions with voids in the base layer opposite the insulating layer from the traces and one or more backed portions with the base layer backing the traces. A plurality of first conductive ground planes are located between the stainless steel base layer and the insulating layer opposite the insulating layer from the traces at the backed portions of the stainless steel base layer. A continuous second conductive ground plane is located opposite the insulating layer from the traces at the void portions and backed portions of the stainless steel base layer. | 02-03-2011 |
20110162203 | MULTI-LAYER GROUND PLANE STRUCTURES FOR INTEGRATED LEAD SUSPENSIONS - Multi-layer ground plane structures and methods of manufacture for integrated lead suspension flexures. A flexure in accordance with one embodiment of the invention includes an insulating layer, a plurality of traces on the insulating layer and a stainless steel base layer on the side of the insulating layer opposite the traces. The stainless steel base layer includes one or more void portions with voids in the base layer opposite the insulating layer from the traces and one or more backed portions with the base layer backing the traces. A plurality of patterned and transversely-spaced first conductive ground planes are located opposite the insulating layer from the traces at the void portions and backed portions of the stainless steel base layer. A continuous gold second conductive ground plane is located opposite the insulating layer and the first ground planes from the side of the insulating layer adjacent to the traces at the void portions and backed portions of the stainless steel base layer. The gold ground plane can be used as an etch stop during formation of the voids in the base layer. | 07-07-2011 |
Lynne E. Swanson, Edina, MN US
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20130165755 | PHYSIOLOGICAL STATUS INDICATOR APPARATUS AND METHOD - A processor circuit can be configured to obtain a first multidimensional vector. The first multidimensional vector can include dimensions corresponding to respective first conductivity characteristics obtained from different implantable electrode configurations associated with a subject. The processor circuit can also be configured to obtain a second multidimensional vector or vector space. The second multidimensional vector or vector space can include dimensions corresponding to respective second conductivity characteristics obtained from such different electrode configurations associated with the same or a different subject. The processor circuit can also provide a physiological status indicator that can be obtained at least in part by performing a vector comparison of the first multidimensional vector to the second multidimensional vector space or vector. | 06-27-2013 |
20140276344 | SHUNTING OF DIETARY LIPIDS INCLUDING CHOLESTEROL - Methods and devices for redirecting at least a portion of a fluid from the mesenteric lymphatic system for elimination from the body are disclosed. The fluid may be redirected for elimination through the urinary system or redirected outside the body. The methods and devices disclosed may prevent a portion of a patient's dietary lipids, including cholesterol, from being absorbed, thereby reducing the total caloric load to assist in weight management. | 09-18-2014 |
20150265814 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING DIETARY LIPID UPTAKE - Methods and devices for redirecting at least a portion of a fluid from the mesenteric lymphatic system for elimination from the body are disclosed. The fluid may be redirected for elimination through the urinary system, through the gastrointestinal system, or redirected outside the body. The device may include a valve to control a flow of the fluid. The methods and devices disclosed may prevent a portion of a patient's dietary lipids, including cholesterol, from being metabolized and absorbed, thereby reducing the total caloric load to assist in weight management and/or for prevention/treatment of atherosclerosis. | 09-24-2015 |
Mark Swanson, Rochester, MN US
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20100105081 | DETECTING FUNGI IN HUMAN SAMPLES - Methods and materials involved in detecting fungi in human samples are provided herein. | 04-29-2010 |
Melvin J. Swanson, Carver, MN US
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20090042742 | Attachment of molecules to surfaces - The present invention relates to methods, reagents, and substrates that can be used for, for example, immobilizing biomolecules, such as nucleic acids and proteins. In an embodiment, the present invention relates to surfaces coated with a polymer according to the present invention. In an embodiment, the present invention relates to methods for thermochemically and/or photochemically attaching molecules to a surface at a high density. | 02-12-2009 |
20110009292 | ATTACHMENT OF MOLECULES TO SURFACES - The present invention relates to methods, reagents, and substrates that can be used for, for example, immobilizing biomolecules, such as nucleic acids and proteins. In an embodiment, the present invention relates to surfaces coated with a polymer according to the present invention. In an embodiment, the present invention relates to methods for thermochemically and/or photochemically attaching molecules to a surface at a high density. | 01-13-2011 |
Mitch Swanson, Eden Prairie, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20080219496 | Embedding data in and detecting embedded data from video objects - Methods for embedding data, such as digital watermarks, in video objects segmented from video frames. Watermarks are embedded such that they move with the object in the video frames. Interframe motion of video objects is estimated and used to modify the watermark accordingly. Methods for detecting embedded data from video objects are also disclosed. | 09-11-2008 |
20080226120 | Video Watermarking Using Temporal Analysis - Methods of embedding and detecting watermarks in video use temporal analysis to compute temporal components of video from which the watermarks are embedded and detected. Temporal analysis, such as a temporal wavelet, is used to compute representations of static and dynamic portions of the video. For embedding, watermarks are computed from and/or adapted to the temporal components. For detecting, temporal properties are exploited to detect watermarks in the static and/or dynamic components. Temporal analysis also enables plural watermarks to be embedded at different levels of temporal resolution. | 09-18-2008 |
20080226121 | Watermarking Using Multiple Watermarks and Keys, Including Keys Dependent on the Host Signal - A method of embedding a watermarking in a host signal computes a first watermark depending on a particular party and computes a second watermark depending on the host signal. The method embeds the first and second watermarks in the host signal. At least one of the watermarks is embedded using a key derived from the host signal. In particular, one of the watermarks is embedded with a key derived from the host signal. | 09-18-2008 |
Mitchell D. Swanson, Eden Prairie, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20090304226 | Multimedia Data Embedding and Decoding - A method for embedding data into a media signal receives a media signal, divides the media signal into blocks of samples, and calculates a function of the samples in the blocks, including transformations of samples in the blocks to corresponding block values. A processor uses the block value to determine a factor for samples in the blocks to be multiplied by the samples so that when a data embedding function is evaluated for the block, an output of the data embedding function corresponds to a data value representing desired digital data embedded in the block. A compatible decoder extracts this embedded data from the media signal. The decoder divides the media signal into blocks of samples and calculates a function of the samples in the blocks, including transformations of samples in the blocks to corresponding block values. A processor processes the block value to evaluate a data embedding function to determine digital data embedded in the block. | 12-10-2009 |
Rachel K. Swanson, Saint Paul, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20080241733 | RADIATION CURABLE THERMAL TRANSFER ELEMENTS - Radiation curable thermal transfer elements including a substrate and a light-to-heat conversion layer overlaying the substrate, and processes to make the thermal transfer elements. The light-to-heat conversion layer is derived from a radiation curable material capable of being cured by exposure to radiation at a curing wavelength and an imaging radiation absorber material not substantially increasing radiation absorbance at the curing wavelength. The radiation curable transfer elements can be used in processes for making organic microelectronic devices. | 10-02-2008 |
Richard Lee Swanson, Hopkins, MN US
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20080246777 | Method and apparatus for background replacement in still photographs - A first digital image is acquired of a framed area while illuminating the background and foreground object under a first lighting condition. A second digital image is then acquired of the same framed area while illuminating the background and foreground object under a second lighting condition. Preferably, the first lighting condition illuminates the background without illuminating the foreground object so that a silhouette of the foreground object is acquired in the first image. The second lighting condition illuminates the foreground object (e.g., with frontal lights). Due to the difference in the illumination between the background and silhouette in the first image, an alpha mask can be created from the first acquired image. Using the mask, the background from the second image can be removed and replaced by virtually any other desired background image. | 10-09-2008 |
20110134141 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BACKGROUND REPLACEMENT IN STILL PHOTOGRAPHS - A first digital image is acquired of a framed area while illuminating the background and foreground object under a first lighting condition. A second digital image is then acquired of the same framed area while illuminating the background and foreground object under a second lighting condition. Preferably, the first lighting condition illuminates the background without illuminating the foreground object so that a silhouette of the foreground object is acquired in the first image. The second lighting condition illuminates the foreground object (e.g., with frontal lights). Due to the difference in the illumination between the background and silhouette in the first image, an alpha mask can be created from the first acquired image. Using the mask, the background from the second image can be removed and replaced by virtually any other desired background image. | 06-09-2011 |
20120120281 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR BACKGROUND REPLACEMENT IN STILL PHOTOGRAPHS - A first digital image is acquired of a framed area while illuminating the background and foreground object under a first lighting condition. A second digital image is then acquired of the same framed area while illuminating the background and foreground object under a second lighting condition. Preferably, the first lighting condition illuminates the background without illuminating the foreground object so that a silhouette of the foreground object is acquired in the first image. The second lighting condition illuminates the foreground object (e.g., with frontal lights). Due to the difference in the illumination between the background and silhouette in the first image, an alpha mask can be created from the first acquired image. Using the mask, the background from the second image can be removed and replaced by virtually any other desired background image. | 05-17-2012 |
Ronald P. Swanson, Woodbury, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20080199552 | SYSTEM FOR FLEXING A WEB - A system for flexing a web is disclosed. The web passes over two co-rotating members, such as rollers or belts, which are separated by a small adjustable gap. The web travels around the first rotating member, is peeled off in the vicinity of the gap, bent back on itself in a small radius and reattached on the second co-rotating member. The location of the small radius is fixed with a closed loop control system sensing the radius location and controlling the relative velocity of the two members. Strain in the web is adjusted with the size of the small radius, which is controlled by the adjustable gap and radius location. | 08-21-2008 |
20110227245 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING CURL IN MULTI-LAYER WEBS - A system and method for controlling curl in multi-layer webs. The method can include providing a coated web, bending the web to induce a strain or pre-curl in the web, and curing the coating to form a multi-layer web. Some coatings at least partially shrink when cured such that curing the coating induces a curl in the multi-layer web. Bending the web occurs prior to curing the coating, and the pre-curl can be configured to at least partially counteract the curl induced by curing to form a multi-layer web having a desired curvature. The system can include a curing section configured to cure a coating, and can further include a web bending section configured to bend the web to induce a strain in the web. The web bending section can be positioned upstream of the curing section such that the web is bent prior to the coating being cured. | 09-22-2011 |
20130196163 | COMPOSITE GLASS LAMINATE AND WEB PROCESSING APPARATUS - A glass composite laminate in the form of a web of indefinite length having a glass layer and a reinforcing layer, and with the thickness of the reinforcing layer chosen such that the neutral surface with respect to bending of the glass composite laminate web does not lie within the glass layer. A method of processing the glass composite laminate web so that it can be handled without being bent in such a way as to place the glass layer in tension due to bending stresses is also disclosed. The glass composite laminate web is conveniently provided as a wound roll where the reinforcing layer forms the outer surface of the roll and the glass layer forms the inner surface of the roll. | 08-01-2013 |
20140109826 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING CURL IN MULTI-LAYER WEBS - A system and method for controlling curl in multi-layer webs. The method can include providing a coated web, curing the coating to form a multi-layer web, and stretching the web during curing of the coating. Some coatings shrink at least partially when cured such that curing the coating induces a strain in the multi-layer web. Stretching the web occurs during curing to induce an opposing strain that at least partially counteracts the strain induced by curing to form a multi-layer web having a desired curvature. The system can include a curing section configured to cure the coating, and can further include a web stretching section, which can be located proximate the curing section and can be substantially coincident with the curing section, such that the web is stretched while the coating is cured. | 04-24-2014 |
20140161511 | WEB-HANDLING MACHINE FRAME - A web-handling machine frame, at least partially built from reconfigurable interconnected blocks having precision alignment points. From such blocks, modular equipment web-handling lines for web-handling operations can be constructed ad hoc with their shaft mounted web-contacting devices in tram without the need for separate alignment procedures. | 06-12-2014 |
20140319194 | APPARATUS FOR GUIDING A MOVING WEB - An apparatus ( | 10-30-2014 |
Ronald R. Swanson, Watertown, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20110006480 | Card feed mechanism for card handling device - The present invention provides an apparatus and method for moving playing cards from a first group of cards into plural hands of cards, wherein each of the hands contains a random arrangement of cards. The apparatus comprises a card receiver for receiving the first group of cards, a single stack of card-receiving compartments generally adjacent to the card receiver, the stack generally vertically movable, an elevator for moving the stack, a card-moving mechanism between the card receiver and the stack, and a microprocessor that controls the card-moving mechanism and the elevator so that an individual card is moved into an identified compartment. The number of compartments receiving cards and the number of cards moved to each compartment may be selected. An apparatus for feeding cards, comprising a surface for supporting a stack of cards, a feed roller with a frictional outer surface, a drive mechanism for causing rotation of the feed roller, a pair of speed-up rollers to advance the cards out of the feed roller, and a clutch mechanism for disengaging the feed roller from the drive mechanism as the card comes into contact with the speed up rollers. | 01-13-2011 |
20120242039 | CARD FEED MECHANISM FOR CARD-HANDLING DEVICE - Apparatuses and methods for moving playing cards from a first group of cards into plural hands of cards, wherein each of the hands contains a random arrangement of cards. The apparatus may comprise a card receiver for receiving the first group of cards, a single stack of card-receiving compartments generally adjacent to the card receiver, the stack generally vertically movable, an elevator for moving the stack, a card-moving mechanism between the card receiver and the stack, and a microprocessor that controls the card-moving mechanism and the elevator so that an individual card is moved into an identified compartment. The number of compartments receiving cards and the number of cards moved to each compartment may be selected. Apparatuses for feeding cards may comprise a surface for supporting a stack of cards, a feed roller with a frictional outer surface, a drive mechanism for causing rotation of the feed roller, a pair of speed-up rollers to advance the cards out of the feed roller, and a clutch mechanism for disengaging the feed roller from the drive mechanism as the card comes into contact with the speed-up rollers. | 09-27-2012 |
Ronald R. Swanson, Otsego, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20080203658 | Device and method for continuously shuffling and monitoring cards - The present invention provides an apparatus and method for moving playing cards from a first group of cards into a second group of cards, wherein the second group of cards is randomly arranged or shuffled. The apparatus comprises a card receiver for receiving the first group of cards, a single stack of card-receiving compartments generally adjacent to the card receiver, the stack generally vertically movable, an elevator for moving the stack, a card-moving mechanism between the card receiver and the stack for moving cards one at a time into a selected one of the compartments, another card moving mechanism for moving cards from one of the compartments to a second card receiver and a microprocessor that controls the card-moving mechanisms and the elevator. A count of cards within specified areas of the card handling system is maintained and card handling is halted and all cards counted by adding a count of all cards not within the specified areas to the total of cards counted within the specified areas. | 08-28-2008 |
20100167826 | DISCARD RACK WITH CARD READER FOR PLAYING CARDS - A card verification station moves and reads suit and rank of individual cards. The cards are provided to a card in-feed area and moved individually to a card collection area. A device may comprise a) a card in-feed area with card moving elements that move only a bottom card from a set of cards in the card in-feed area, b) a card collection area that receives cards from the card moving area in the same order as cards are received in the card in-feed area, c) an image capture device that captures data from a card while the card is between the card in-feed area and the card collection area, d) a processor capable of controlling the operation of the card verification station, and e) an elevator that lowers to maintain a level at which cards are received in the card collection area. A method of verifying a group of playing cards is also disclosed. | 07-01-2010 |
20100320685 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR CONTINUOUSLY SHUFFLING AND MONITORING CARDS - The present invention provides an apparatus and method for moving playing cards from a first group of cards into a second group of cards, wherein the second group of cards is randomly arranged or shuffled. The apparatus comprises a card receiver for receiving the first group of cards, a single stack of card-receiving compartments generally adjacent to the card receiver, the stack generally vertically movable, an elevator for moving the stack, a card-moving mechanism between the card receiver and the stack for moving cards one at a time into a selected one of the compartments, another card moving mechanism for moving cards from one of the compartments to a second card receiver and a microprocessor that controls the card-moving mechanisms and the elevator. A count of cards within specified areas of the card handling system is maintained and card handling is halted and all cards counted by adding a count of all cards not within the specified areas to the total of cards counted within the specified areas. | 12-23-2010 |
20110109042 | AUTOMATIC SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR ACCURATE CARD HANDLING - A playing card handling device is disclosed, comprising a card storing area that supports a stack of playing cards, the storing area having a playing card support surface. A card removing system is provided that removes playing cards individually from the bottom of the stack. A pivoting arm is automatically moved by a motor between at least two positions, wherein in a first position the end of the arm opposite a pivot is disengaged from a playing card at the top of the stack and in a second position the end of the arm is engaged with a playing card at the top of the stack. A processor in the playing card handling device directs movement of the pivoting arm between at least a first and second position when information is known to the processor that a predetermined number of cards is present in the card storing area of the card handling device. Methods of card handling employing the use of a pivotal arm are also disclosed. | 05-12-2011 |
20120283025 | METHOD OF DECOMMISSIONING CARDS - A card verification station moves and reads suit and rank of individual cards. The cards are provided to a card in-feed area and moved individually to a card collection area. A device may comprise: a) a card in-feed area with card-moving elements that move only a bottom card from a set of cards in the card in-feed area; b) a card collection area that receives cards from the card in-feed area in the same order as cards are received in the card in-feed area; c) an image capture device that captures data from a card while the card is between the card in-feed area and the card collection area; d) a processor capable of controlling the operation of the card verification station; and e) an elevator that lowers to maintain a level at which cards are received in the card collection area. A method of verifying a group of playing cards is also disclosed. | 11-08-2012 |
20120286471 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR HANDLING, SHUFFLING, AND MOVING CARDS - Card-handling devices include a card-holding area and a card output shoe. The card output shoe includes a card-way for passage of cards from the card-holding area into a dealing-ready area. A movable gate is positioned between the card-way and the dealing-ready area to prevent cards in the dealing-ready area from re-entering the card-way. Card shufflers include a gate mounted to allow movement of randomized groups of cards from card-receiving compartments to proximate a terminal end plate of a card output shoe and to block movement of cards in an opposite direction. In related methods of moving cards, card movement through the card-way to the dealing-ready position is allowed by a movable gate and card movement from the dealing-ready position into the card-way is prevented by the movable gate. | 11-15-2012 |
20130099448 | AUTOMATIC CARD SHUFFLER WITH PIVOTAL CARD WEIGHT AND DIVIDER GATE - A playing card handling device is disclosed. The device includes a first side and a second opposite side. Components of the device include a card infeed tray, a card output tray and a card handling zone. The card infeed tray and card output tray are on the same first side of the device and an upper surface of the card infeed tray and an upper surface of the card output tray are in the same plane. Card handling devices of the present invention also include a touch screen display, as well as a movable card gate. | 04-25-2013 |
20130193642 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR HANDLING, SHUFFLING, AND MOVING CARDS - Card-handling devices include a card-holding area and a card output shoe. The card output shoe includes a card-way for passage of cards from the card-holding area into a dealing-ready area. A movable gate is positioned between the card-way and the dealing-ready area to prevent cards in the dealing-ready area from re-entering the card-way. Card shufflers include a gate mounted to allow movement of randomized groups of cards from card-receiving compartments to proximate a terminal end plate of a card output shoe and to block movement of cards in an opposite direction. In related methods of moving cards, card movement through the card-way to the dealing-ready position is allowed by a movable gate and card movement from the dealing-ready position into the card-way is prevented by the movable gate. | 08-01-2013 |
20140027979 | BATCH CARD SHUFFLING APPARATUSES INCLUDING MULTI CARD STORAGE COMPARTMENTS, AND RELATED METHODS - Automatic card shufflers include a card input mechanism for inputting cards into the card shuffler, a card storage device for receiving cards from the card input mechanism and temporarily storing cards within the card shuffler, and a card output mechanism for outputting shuffled cards from the card shuffler. The card storage device may include a movable rack configured to move vertically within the card shuffler. The movable rack may have a plurality of card storage compartments therein, each of which may be sized and configured to hold two cards therein. The card output mechanism includes a movable ejector configured to simultaneously eject cards out from two or more card storage compartments of the movable rack. Related methods include methods of fabricating such card shufflers, and methods of using such card shufflers. | 01-30-2014 |
20140049005 | METHODS OF RANDOMIZING CARDS - Apparatuses and methods for moving playing cards from a first group of cards into plural hands of cards, wherein each of the hands contains a random arrangement of cards. The apparatus may comprise a card receiver for receiving the first group of cards, a single stack of card-receiving compartments generally adjacent to the card receiver, the stack generally vertically movable, an elevator for moving the stack, a card-moving mechanism between the card receiver and the stack, and a microprocessor that controls the card-moving mechanism and the elevator so that an individual card is moved into an identified compartment. The number of compartments receiving cards and the number of cards moved to each compartment may be selected. Apparatuses for feeding cards may comprise a surface for supporting a stack of cards, a feed roller with a frictional outer surface, a drive mechanism for causing rotation of the feed roller, a pair of speed-up rollers to advance the cards out of the feed roller, and a clutch mechanism for disengaging the feed roller from the drive mechanism as the card comes into contact with the speed-up rollers. | 02-20-2014 |
20140138907 | Automatic System and Methods for Accurate Card Handling - A playing card handling device comprises a card storing area that supports a stack of playing cards, the card storing area having a playing card support surface. A card removing system removes playing cards individually from the bottom of the stack. A pivoting arm is automatically moved by a motor between at least two positions, wherein in a first position the end of the arm opposite a pivot is disengaged from a playing card at the top of the stack and in a second position the end of the arm is engaged with a playing card at the top of the stack. A processor in the playing card handling device directs movement of the pivoting arm between at least the first and second positions when a predetermined number of cards is present in the card storing area. Methods of card handling include employing the use of such a pivotal arm. | 05-22-2014 |
20140175742 | Card Weight for Gravity Feed Input for Playing Card Shuffler - A card-feeding device for feeding cards into a card-handling device is disclosed. Examples of card-handling devices include shufflers, card sorters, card delivery devices and card verification devices. The device includes a card infeed area that supports a stack of cards. The card infeed area has a card support surface. Included in the device is a card-removing system that removes cards individually from the bottom of the stack. A pivoting arm presses against a card at the top of the stack. At least one sensor is provided that detects at least one of a position of the arm and a presence of a card in the card infeed area. A method of shuffling cards is also disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing cards to be shuffled into a card infeed area as a stack with a top and bottom and removing cards one at a time from the bottom of the stack and moving the removed cards to a shuffling zone. Cards are then shuffled. The stack of cards is stabilized by a pivoting arm capable of pressing against the top of the stack in an engaged position. The pivot arm may be automatically rotated from a first card-engaging position to a second recessed position. | 06-26-2014 |
20140203505 | Card Shuffler with Adjacent Card Infeed and Card Output Compartments - A playing card handling device is disclosed. The device includes a first side and a second opposite side. Components of the device include a card infeed tray, a card output tray and a card handling zone. The card infeed tray and card output tray are on the same first side of the device and an upper surface of the card infeed tray and an upper surface of the card output tray are in the same plane. Card handling devices of the present invention also include a touch screen display, as well as a movable card gate. | 07-24-2014 |
20140327208 | Methods for Shuffling Cards and Rack Assemblies For Use In Automatic Card Shufflers - Card-handling devices include a card-holding area and a card output shoe. The card output shoe includes a card-way for passage of cards from the card-holding area into a dealing-ready area. A movable gate is positioned between the card-way and the dealing-ready area to prevent cards in the dealing-ready area from re-entering the card-way. Card shufflers include a gate mounted to allow movement of randomized groups of cards from card-receiving compartments to proximate a terminal end plate of a card output shoe and to block movement of cards in an opposite direction. In related methods of moving cards, card movement through the card-way to the dealing-ready position is allowed by a movable gate and card movement from the dealing-ready position into the card-way is prevented by the movable gate. | 11-06-2014 |
20150130132 | APPARATUS FOR CARD HANDLING DEVICE CALIBRATION - A device for automatically calibrating for card size and thickness during card handling is disclosed. The device includes a card receiving area, a card stacking area and a card moving system for moving cards from the card receiving area to the card stacking area. An elevator located in the card stacking area has a movable platform for moving a stack of cards. At least one sensor senses at least one of position of the platform, height of the platform, position of a card in the elevator, height of a card or cards in the elevator, pressure applied to a card in the elevator, presence of the platform at a predetermined height, presence of the platform at a predetermined position, presence of card(s) on the platform, and absence of card(s) on the platform. A method for calibrating a card handling device during shuffling is also disclosed. | 05-14-2015 |
20150145205 | METHODS OF RANDOMIZING CARDS - Apparatuses and methods for moving playing cards from a first group of cards into plural hands of cards, wherein each of the hands contains a random arrangement of cards. The apparatus may comprise a card receiver for receiving the first group of cards, a single stack of card-receiving compartments generally adjacent to the card receiver, the stack generally vertically movable, an elevator for moving the stack, a card-moving mechanism between the card receiver and the stack, and a microprocessor that controls the card-moving mechanism and the elevator so that an individual card is moved into an identified compartment. The number of compartments receiving cards and the number of cards moved to each compartment may be selected. Apparatuses for feeding cards may comprise a surface for supporting a stack of cards, a feed roller with a frictional outer surface, a drive mechanism for causing rotation of the feed roller, a pair of speed-up rollers to advance the cards out of the feed roller, and a clutch mechanism for disengaging the feed roller from the drive mechanism as the card comes into contact with the speed-up rollers. | 05-28-2015 |
20150182850 | Batch Card Shuffling Apparatuses Including Multi-Card Storage Compartments, and Related Methods - Automatic card shufflers include a card input mechanism for inputting cards into the card shuffler, a card storage device for receiving cards from the card input mechanism and temporarily storing cards within the card shuffler, and a card output mechanism for outputting shuffled cards from the card shuffler. The card storage device may include a movable rack configured to move vertically within the card shuffler. The movable rack may have a plurality of card storage compartments therein, each of which may be sized and configured to hold two cards therein. The card output mechanism includes a movable ejector configured to simultaneously eject cards out from two or more card storage compartments of the movable rack. Related methods include methods of fabricating such card shufflers, and methods of using such card shufflers. | 07-02-2015 |
20150196833 | CARD HANDLING DEVICES COMPRISING ANGLED SUPPORT SURFACES - A device for forming a random set of playing cards is disclosed. The device comprises: a top surface and a bottom surface of the device. A single card receiving area is provided for receiving an initial set of playing cards. A randomizing system for randomizing an order of the initial set of playing cards is provided. A card collection surface in a card collection area for receiving randomized playing cards one at a time into the card collection area, the collection surface receiving cards so that all cards are received below the top surface of the device is also provided. An image capture device reads rank and suit of each card before each card is received on the card collection surface. An elevator raises the card collection surface so that at least some randomized cards are elevated at least to the top surface of the device. A processor controls operation of the device. A motor drives the elevator, wherein an encoder is provided for communication with the motor, and wherein the encoder provides a signal indicating that a shuffle has occurred. Embodiments include a processor that creates commands and then receives system signals verifying that the commands were properly executed. | 07-16-2015 |
20150196834 | Automatic Card Shuffler with Pivotal Card Weight and Divider Gate - A playing card handling device is disclosed. The device includes a first side and a second opposite side. Components of the device include a card infeed tray, a card output tray and a card handling zone. The card infeed tray and card output tray are on the same first side of the device and an upper surface of the card infeed tray and an upper surface of the card output tray are in the same plane. Card handling devices of the present invention also include a touch screen display, as well as a movable card gate. | 07-16-2015 |
20150209655 | Batch Card Shuffling Apparatuses Including Multi-Card Storage Compartments, and Related Methods - Automatic card shufflers include a card input mechanism for inputting cards into the card shuffler, a card storage device for receiving cards from the card input mechanism and temporarily storing cards within the card shuffler, and a card output mechanism for outputting shuffled cards from the card shuffler. The card storage device may include a movable rack configured to move vertically within the card shuffler. The movable rack may have a plurality of card storage compartments therein, each of which may be sized and configured to hold two cards therein. The card output mechanism includes a movable ejector configured to simultaneously eject cards out from two or more card storage compartments of the movable rack. Related methods include methods of fabricating such card shufflers, and methods of using such card shufflers. | 07-30-2015 |
20150224389 | CARD-HANDLING METHODS WITH SIMULTANEOUS REMOVAL - Methods of handling cards using card-handling devices may involve transferring a set of playing cards into a card storage device of a card-handling device using a card input mechanism by distributing the set of playing cards among compartments of the card storage device. Cards may be simultaneously removed from at least two of the compartments to form a stack of cards using a movable ejector. | 08-13-2015 |
20150290529 | Flush Mounted Card Shuffler that Elevates Cards - A device for forming a random set of playing cards is disclosed. The device comprises: a top surface and a bottom surface of the device. A single card receiving area is provided for receiving an initial set of playing cards. A randomizing system for randomizing an order of the initial set of playing cards is provided. A card collection surface in a card collection area for receiving randomized playing cards one at a time into the card collection area, the collection surface receiving cards so that all cards are received below the top surface of the device is also provided. An image capture device reads rank and suit of each card before each card is received on the card collection surface. An elevator raises the card collection surface so that at least some randomized cards are elevated at least to the top surface of the device. A processor controls operation of the device. A motor drives the elevator, wherein an encoder is provided for communication with the motor, and wherein the encoder provides a signal indicating that a shuffle has occurred. Embodiments include a processor that creates commands and then receives system signals verifying that the commands were properly executed. | 10-15-2015 |
20160030831 | HAND-FORMING CARD SHUFFLING APPARATUSES INCLUDING MULTI-CARD STORAGE COMPARTMENTS, AND RELATED METHODS - Card shufflers usable in forming and dispensing randomized playing card hands for use in playing card games include a card input mechanism for inputting cards into the card shuffler, a card storage device for receiving cards from the card input mechanism and temporarily storing cards within the card shuffler, and a card output mechanism for outputting shuffled cards from the card shuffler. The card storage device may include a wheel configured to rotate within the card shuffler. The rotatable wheel may have a plurality of card storage compartments therein, each of which may be sized and configured to hold two or more cards therein. Related methods involve the use of such card shufflers in playing card games. | 02-04-2016 |
20160059111 | Playing card shuffling devices and related methods - A playing card handling device comprises a card storing area that supports a stack of playing cards, the card storing area having a playing card support surface. A card removing system removes playing cards individually from the bottom of the stack. A pivoting arm is automatically moved by a motor between at least two positions, wherein in a first position the end of the arm opposite a pivot is disengaged from a playing card at the top of the stack and in a second position the end of the arm is engaged with a playing card at the top of the stack. A processor in the playing card handling device directs movement of the pivoting arm between at least the first and second positions when a predetermined number of cards is present in the card storing area. Methods of card handling include employing the use of such a pivotal arm. | 03-03-2016 |
Ronald W. Swanson, Otsego, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20130134674 | CARD WEIGHT FOR GRAVITY FEED INPUT FOR PLAYING CARD SHUFFLER - A card-feeding device for feeding cards into a card-handling device is disclosed. Examples of card-handling devices include shufflers, card sorters, card delivery devices and card verification devices. The device includes a card infeed area that supports a stack of cards. The card infeed area has a card support surface. Included in the device is a card-removing system that removes cards individually from the bottom of the stack. A pivoting arm presses against a card at the top of the stack. At least one sensor is provided that detects at least one of a position of the arm and a presence of a card in the card infeed area. A method of shuffling cards is also disclosed. The method includes the steps of providing cards to be shuffled into a card infeed area as a stack with a top and bottom and removing cards one at a time from the bottom of the stack and moving the removed cards to a shuffling zone. Cards are then shuffled. The stack of cards is stabilized by a pivoting arm capable of pressing against the top of the stack in an engaged position. The pivot arm may be automatically rotated from a first card-engaging position to a second recessed position. | 05-30-2013 |
Stephen Kenyon Swanson, Maple Grove, MN US
Patent application number | Description | Published |
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20140259892 | HIGH-PERFORMANCE HYDROLYSIS FUEL FORMULATION FOR MICRO FUEL CELLS - Embodiments of the present invention relate to a hydrogen generating fuel comprising grains comprising a promoter and AlH | 09-18-2014 |
Steve Swanson, Maple Grove, MN US
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20100178573 | FUEL SOURCE FOR ELECTROCHEMICAL CELL - A fuel source for an electrochemical cell includes two or more chemical hydride pellets, a flexible, porous, liquid water impermeable, hydrogen and water vapor permeable membrane in contact with and at least partially surrounding each hydride pellet, and a porous metal hydride layer positioned between each hydride pellet. Air gaps are between each pellet. | 07-15-2010 |
20120137570 | FUEL SOURCE FOR ELECTROCHEMICAL CELL - A fuel source for an electrochemical cell includes two or more chemical hydride pellets, a flexible, porous, liquid water impermeable, hydrogen and water vapor permeable membrane in contact with and at least partially surrounding each hydride pellet, and a porous metal hydride layer positioned between each hydride pellet. Air gaps are between each pellet. | 06-07-2012 |
Steven David Swanson, Rochester, MN US
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20090310768 | SOCIAL NETWORK BASED CALL MANAGEMENT - Illustrative embodiments provide a computer implemented method, an apparatus in the form of a data processing system and a computer program product for social network based call management. In one illustrative embodiment, the computer implemented method comprises receiving an incoming call from a caller for a subscriber, and obtains preferences for the subscriber, wherein the preferences describe a caller relationship to the subscriber. Using a location provided in the preferences for the subscriber, the computer implemented method locates attributes for the caller. The computer implemented method processes the call in accordance with the attributes and the preferences. | 12-17-2009 |
Steven M. Swanson, East Bethel, MN US
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20110179779 | EMISSIONS TREATMENT IN GENSET ENGINES THROUGH AIR INJECTION INTO THE EXHAUST SYSTEM OF A GENSET - An exhaust system that can improve emissions treatment by reducing certain emissions species. The exhaust system draws air into the exhaust system from an air source, when exhaust pressure decreases to a threshold so that air can enter the exhaust system. The exhaust system is in a genset engine. The air source is a pressurized air source, such as an existing fan of the genset engine. A portion of the air generated by the air source is pulled off so that it flows directly toward the exhaust system, using a one-way valve and conduit that fluidly connects the air source to the exhaust system. | 07-28-2011 |
Steven P. Swanson, Blaine, MN US
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20130316393 | MICROBIAL DETECTION ARTICLE HAVING A WATER-ABSORBENT FILTER ASSEMBLY - A microbial detection article and methods of using the same, the article comprising: a base member comprising a self-supporting water impervious substrate with first and second generally opposed major surfaces; a filter assembly defining a filter assembly aperture therein, and having a composite filter body mounted across the filter assembly aperture; wherein the composite filter body comprises: a microporous membrane, and a water-absorbent layer in fluid communication with the microporous membrane; and a cover sheet. | 11-28-2013 |
20150118501 | ANTI-FOG COATING COMPRISING AQUEOUS POLYMERIC DISPERSION, CROSSLINKER & ACID OR SALT OF POLYALKYLENE OXIDE - Coating compositions are described comprising an aqueous polymeric dispersion; a crosslinker; and an acid or salt of a polyalkylene oxide. Also described are articles comprising the dried and cured coating composition disposed on a substrate as well as a method a providing an anti-fog coating on a substrate. | 04-30-2015 |
20160068651 | REACTION MIXTURE, POROUS PARTICLES AND METHODS OF MAKING - Porous polymeric particles are provided that can be hydrophilic or hydrophobic. The porous polymeric particles can be used for the storage and delivery of various active agents or for moisture management. Reaction mixtures for forming the porous polymeric particles, methods of making the porous polymeric particles, and articles containing the porous polymeric particles are also provided. | 03-10-2016 |
20160089858 | SUCCESSIVELY PEELABLE COEXTRUDED POLYMER FILM WITH EMBEDDED ANTIMICROBIAL LAYER(S) - Multilayered polymer films are configured so that successive constituent layer packets can be delaminated in continuous sheet form from the remaining film. The films are compatible with known coextrusion manufacturing techniques, and can be made without adhesive layers between layer packets that are tailored to be individually peelable from the remainder of the film. Instead, combinations of polymer compositions are used to allow non-adhesive polymer layers to be combined such that irreversible delamination of the film is likely to occur at interfaces between layer packets pairs. Some of the polymer layers, including at least one embedded layer, comprise an antimicrobial agent, and these layers may be positioned at the front of each layer packet. After the antimicrobial layer of one layer packet has been used, the packet can be peeled away to expose a pristine antimicrobial layer of the next layer packet. The antimicrobial agent may be organic. | 03-31-2016 |
Thomas Swanson, Chicago City, MN US
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20140131096 | HYBRID CARBON NANOTUBE SHIELDING FOR LIGHTWEIGHT ELECTRICAL CABLES - A cable comprising hybrid carbon nanotube (CNT) shielding includes at least one conducting wire; at least one insulating layer covering at least one of the at least one conducting wire; a metallic foil component configured for lower frequency shielding function; and a CNT tape component configured for higher frequency shielding function. | 05-15-2014 |
Travis E. Swanson, Ramsey, MN US
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20130286765 | CHANNEL SKEWING - Methods and systems for channel skewing are described. One or more methods for channel skewing includes providing a number of groups of data signals to a memory component, each of the number of groups corresponding to a respective channel, and adjusting a phase of a group of data signals corresponding to at least one of the number of channels such that the group of data signals are skewed with respect to a group of data signals corresponding to at least one of the other respective channels. | 10-31-2013 |
20150325277 | CHANNEL SKEWING - Methods and systems for channel skewing are described. One or more methods for channel skewing includes providing a number of groups of data signals to a memory component, each of the number of groups corresponding to a respective channel, and adjusting a phase of a group of data signals corresponding to at least one of the number of channels such that the group of data signals are skewed with respect to a group of data signals corresponding to at least one of the other respective channels. | 11-12-2015 |
William Swanson, St. Paul, MN US
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20090171431 | Electrical Conduction Block Implant Device - The present invention provides an electrical block implant sized and shaped for securement at the perimeter of the pulmonary ostium of the left atrium. By utilizing various expandable ring designs and optional anchoring mechanisms, the present invention causes even, circular scarring around the perimeter of the pulmonary ostium, achieving reliable blocking of aberrant electrical signals responsible for atrial fibrillation. | 07-02-2009 |
20090171444 | Two-Stage Scar Generation for Treating Atrial Fibrillation - The present invention seeks to provide an implant configured to utilize at least two different scar-generating mechanisms that are generated in sequential or overlapping stages. For example, in one embodiment the present invention provides an expandable device that can be positioned at a desired target location within a patient to generate mechanical ablation damage. After a predetermined amount of mechanical ablation has occurred, additional ablation damage is generated by a different source, such as energy delivery, drug delivery, or inflammatory material delivery. In this respect, the overall ablation scarring can be better controlled by utilizing the ablation techniques that are most appropriate at specific phases of a technique or locations within a patient. | 07-02-2009 |
20090171445 | Electrical Conduction Block Implant Device - The present invention provides an electrical block implant sized and shaped for securement at the perimeter of the pulmonary ostium of the left atrium. By utilizing various expandable ring designs and optional anchoring mechanisms, the present invention causes even, circular scarring around the perimeter of the pulmonary ostium, achieving reliable blocking of aberrant electrical signals responsible for atrial fibrillation. | 07-02-2009 |
20100174304 | Methods And Devices For Creating Electrical Block At Specific Targeted Sites In Cardiac Tissue - The present invention provides a mechanical injury device having cutting elements for injuring tissue and thereby creating electrical block that can prevent atrial fibrillation. These cutting elements may preferably be removable, breakaway, or simply integral to the injury device and may be delivered, for example, by catheter or hand tool. | 07-08-2010 |
20100211155 | Electrical Conduction Block Implant Device - The present invention provides an electrical block implant sized and shaped for securement at the perimeter of the pulmonary ostium of the left atrium. By utilizing various expandable ring designs and optional anchoring mechanisms, the present invention causes even, circular scarring around the perimeter of the pulmonary ostium, achieving reliable blocking of aberrant electrical signals responsible for atrial fibrillation. | 08-19-2010 |
William J. Swanson, Saitn Paul, MN US
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20150209836 | SUPPORT CLEANING SYSTEM - An automated support cleaning system comprising a tank disposed within a housing and configured to circulate an aqueous cleaning solution to remove a support structure from a three-dimensional model. | 07-30-2015 |