| Entries |
| Document | Title | Date |
|---|
| 20080219828 | Method for securing saddlemount to vehicle - A method for transporting vehicles is disclosed. The method uses inner or outer securing plates, or both, in cooperation with frame rails of a towing vehicle to secure a towing device to the towing vehicle. Towing vehicles typically include a frame that is made from strong robust channels on both sides of the towing vehicle. The securing plates generally have a right-angle bend in order to butt up against a web or a flange of the channels. This prevents inner or outer movement of the securing plates and allows users to secure a towing saddle and its load without using extended U-bolts around the channels. | 09-11-2008 |
| 20080317576 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR FEEDING A NUMBER OF FLAT SUBPRODUCTS TO A SERIAL SUBSEQUENT PROCESSING - For supplying individual quantities of flat and in particular diverse part products to a serial further processing, the part products are arranged in a row of part product groups ( | 12-25-2008 |
| 20080317577 | Robot positioned welding tip dresser - A robot positioned welding tip dresser assembly includes a pivot arm pivotally mountable on a welding gun apparatus. The pivot arm is pivotal about a pivot point. A welding tip dresser is mounted on a distal end of the pivot arm. A first retaining tab extends from the pivot arm. The first retaining tab includes an opening extending therethrough. At least one positioning mechanism is disposed relative to the pivot point and is cooperable with the first retaining tab to retain the pivot arm in one of a home position and a working position. The first retaining tab is engagable by end-of-arm tooling of a robot. The end-of-arm tooling is operable to release the positioning mechanism, and movement of the robot moves the pivot arm between the home and working positions. | 12-25-2008 |
| 20090053032 | CARRIER STRIP SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIFFERENT DIAMETER FASTENERS - A carrier strip system includes a plurality of discrete carrier strips respectively receptive of fasteners of substantially different dimensions the strips having internal features configured to engage the fasteners, the strips further having substantially identical external dimensions said external dimensions being substantially symmetrical with respect to a virtual surface defined by inclusion of axes of the plurality of discrete fasteners, and the external dimensions being engagable with a single setting tool magazine such that fasteners with different dimensions have consistent alignment within a single setting tool magazine and method. | 02-26-2009 |
| 20090074556 | Method and Device for the Transport of Goods by Rail - In one embodiment of the present invention, a method and device are disclosed for the transport of goods by rail, wherein goods wagons are used with independent propulsion means. The propulsion means for the goods wagons are used only for short journeys from a station to a customer and back. For long journeys the goods wagons are assembled into a train and pulled by a tractor vehicle. | 03-19-2009 |
| 20090148267 | Method for repositioning warehouse shelving units - A warehouse palette rack repositioning assembly which can move a palette rack in its fully loaded state from one area of the warehouse to the other area of the warehouse. The warehouse pallet rack repositioning assembly can be installed onto a pallet rack by one workman. The assembly has a lifting unit and four wheeled skate units which provide the transportation means. The lifting unit is attached to the palette rack upright legs in the transverse direction, and a jack is used to actuate the lifting unit and lift the palette rack. The wheeled skate units are then installed underneath the palette rack uprights, with the pallet rack then being loaded onto the wheeled skate units for transportation. | 06-11-2009 |
| 20090162184 | Reducing transaction time in a self-service terminal - Methods of reducing transaction time in a self-service terminal are described. The methods involve pre-stacking a defined amount of media, such as a commonly withdrawn amount of money, before the user has performed any service selection. During service selection, the user is given an option to withdraw the defined amount of money and if the user selects this option, the pre-stacked amount is dispensed. If the user selects an option to withdraw a different amount of money, a second dispenser in the self-service terminal may be used to stack and dispense this different amount. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090191042 | SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE MANUFACTURING APPARATUS AND WAFER LOADING/UNLOADING METHOD THEREOF - A semiconductor manufacturing apparatus and a wafer loading/unloading method thereof increase productivity. The semiconductor manufacturing apparatus includes a first boat and a second boat having a plurality of first slots and a plurality of second slots, respectively, and disposed such that the first slots and the second slots alternate each other, the first boat mounting a plurality of first wafers in the first slots to direct front faces of the first wafers in a predetermined direction, the second boat mounting a plurality of second wafers in the second slots to direct back faces of the second wafers in the predetermined direction; a reaction tube having an opening and containing the first and second boats mounting the first and second wafers; a plate sealing up the opening of the reaction tube containing the first boat and the second boat; a reaction gas supplier supplying reaction gas into the sealed reaction tube for a predetermined process; and a reaction gas exhauster exhausting the reaction gas from the reaction tube to the external of the reaction tube after the predetermined process. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090191043 | Wafer Carrying Apparatus - A wafer carrying apparatus or cassette is disclosed, which includes a binding or retention unit, so as to prevent wafers from being damaged by crash, inadvertent egress or exiting, and so on. The wafer carrying apparatus includes a main body provided with a plurality of wafer insertion grooves formed on inner sides and an opening formed on a front surface to take wafers in and out, a binding unit configured to move up and down on the front surface of the main body, its position relative to the insertion grooves being variable so as to close and open the insertion grooves, and a mechanism for varying the position of the binding unit relative to the insertion grooves, the mechanism being connected to the binding unit. | 07-30-2009 |
| 20090202333 | ELECTRONIC COMPONENT PICKUP METHOD, ELECTRONIC COMPONENT MOUNTING METHOD AND ELECTRONIC COMPONENT MOUNTING APPARATUS - This invention intends to provide an electronic component pick-up method, an electronic component loading method and an electronic component loading apparatus which are | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090202334 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR TRANSPORTING AND STORING MULTIPLE REAGENT PACKS AND REAGENT PACKS USED THEREIN - A new method and system for transporting and sorting multiple reagent packs used in conjunction with an immunodiagnostic instrument is provided. The new system includes a multiplicity of reagent packs; a gantry movably mounted on a rack structure for carrying a gripper mechanism, wherein the gripper mechanism has gripping jaws for engagement with the reagent pack; a power assembly for actuating the respective movement of the gantry, the gripper mechanism and the gripping jaws; a storage nest having a multiplicity of compartments, each adapted for storing a one of the respective reagent packs; and a pipetting nest having a multiplicity of compartment, each adapted for retaining a respective one of the reagent packs for simultaneous pipetting. Methods of using the system and a novel reagent pack used in connection with the new system are also provided. | 08-13-2009 |
| 20090232632 | SUPPORT PLATFORM - A support platform for use in automated storage and retrieval systems is generally a planar board having an upper support surface. The board further includes opposing end edges and opposing side edges. The end edges each include first and second interlocking members formed therein. The support platform is placed on the racks in the automated storage and retrieval system with items or containers of items placed thereon. Several support platforms are placed on each rack, one behind the other. The end edges of each support platform are interlocked with each adjacent support platform, with each first interlocking member interlocked with one of the second interlocking members of an adjacent support platform. | 09-17-2009 |
| 20090245995 | GAME SKID - A method and apparatus for transporting a game animal a hunter has killed or other large animal body is provided. The apparatus has a hitch bar attachable to a hitch receiver on a vehicle. A platform is connected to the hitch bar so that when the hitch bar is connected to a vehicle, the hitch bar alone supports the platform above the ground. For transporting an animal a hunter has killed, the head of the animal is secured onto the platform with the body of the animal extended behind the platform and lying on the ground. The animal can then be pulled by the vehicle, with the head supported above the ground by the platform and the body being pulled behind the platform along the ground. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090245996 | STAND COMPENSATOR - Methods and apparatus for connecting a tubular to a tubular string are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus suitable for engaging, compensating, and connecting a tubular includes one or more compensating pistons, an engaging assembly for engaging a tubular, and a connector for connecting the engaging assembly to the one or more compensating pistons while allowing for rotation of the tubular relative to the compensation pistons. | 10-01-2009 |
| 20090252589 | Apparatus and method for handling pipe - An apparatus for handling pipes, the apparatus, in certain aspects, having a body having a tapered surface and at least a first slip and a second slip slidable on the tapered surface, a slip actuator for setting said at least first slip and said second slip, said first slip and said second slip having interengaging elements such that upon actuation of said slip actuator, said first slip is set and said second slip is set by the interengaging elements transferring setting force from the slip actuator through said first slip to said second slip; and methods for using such an apparatus. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090252590 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR PICKING UP, TRANSPORTING, AND DEPOSITING MICROSCOPIC SAMPLES - An apparatus and method for picking up, transporting and depositing microscopic samples. Such an apparatus includes at least one interchangeable adhesive body and a gripping tool for picking up, transporting and depositing the adhesive body, the adhesive body having at least one outwardly curved surface which is at least partially adhesive with respect to the sample. In this method, a gripping tool picks up an adhesive body having an at least partially outwardly curved surface which is at least partially adhesive with respect to the sample. The gripping tool then guides the adhesive body to above the sample. The at least partially curved surface of the adhesive body is then brought into contact with the sample, the sample adheres to the surface of the adhesive body when this is being removed from the sample location, and is finally deposited at the depositing location. | 10-08-2009 |
| 20090263228 | Merchandise pallet - A pallet for use in transporting merchandise includes a pallet body having a top surface for supporting merchandise. A foot-driven winch is mounted on the pallet body, and a flexible tie-down for restraining merchandise on the pallet body is connected to the winch. In a preferred method of using the pallet, a plurality of such pallets are disposed inside a vehicle with the pallets defining a surface which substantially spans the width of the floor of the vehicle and on which a delivery person can stand to access merchandise on the pallets. The delivery person can remove merchandise from the pallets while remaining inside the vehicle and then can move the merchandise to outside the vehicle without having to perform any lifting. As a result, sickness of delivery persons due to exposure to the weather during delivery and injuries due to lifting of merchandise can be decreased. | 10-22-2009 |
| 20090269182 | CONTAINER FOR STORING PLATES FOR ELECTRONIC CIRCUITS AND RELATIVE METHOD - A container for storing plates for electronic circuits, able to be used in an automatic store, comprises a supporting base provided with a first face defining a supporting plane and a second face defining a storage plane. The container has at least a portion of wall, disposed in correspondence with one side of the supporting base, converging in a first corner of the supporting base and cooperating with holding elements present in an adjacent side and defining respectively a first abutment plane and a second abutment plane substantially orthogonal with each other and with the supporting plane. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090274544 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR WEDGE LOCK PREVENTION - In one embodiment, a tubular handling apparatus is provided with a wedge lock release mechanism that creates a clearance to allow movement by the mandrel having mating wedge surfaces relative to the tubular to release the wedge slips. In another embodiment, a tubular handling apparatus for handling a tubular includes a mandrel; a carrier coupled to the mandrel; a gripping element for engaging the tubular; an engagement member coupled to the carrier for engaging an upper portion of the tubular; and an abutment device adapted to engage the engagement member, wherein a length of the abutment device is adjustable to allow movement of the engagement member. | 11-05-2009 |
| 20090274545 | Tubular Handling Apparatus - In one embodiment, a tubular gripping assembly for use with a top drive to handle a tubular includes a tubular gripping tool having a mandrel and gripping elements operatively coupled to the mandrel; and a link assembly attached to the mandrel, wherein a load of the link assembly is transferred to the mandrel. In another embodiment, the tubular gripping assembly includes a swivel having selectively actuatable seals. In yet another embodiment, the tubular gripping assembly includes a thread compensator to facilitate tubular make-up. In yet another embodiment, the tubular gripping assembly includes a wedge lock release apparatus to facilitate the release of gripping elements from the tubular. | 11-05-2009 |
| 20090279998 | Vibration isolator for container and the like, and method of using the same - A vibration isolator for container, and the like, and a method of using the same which are applicable to general containers, and allow the loaded articles to be protected against vibration at the time of transportation, and the like, with the cost being held to a minimum. It is a vibration isolator ( | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090279999 | MIXED SIZE PRODUCT HANDLING END OF ARM TOOL - A mixed size product end of arm tooling is used in conjunction with a robot to pick mixed size product and place the product onto a pallet or layers resting on top of a pallet. The end of arm tooling includes two center rails/forks mounted to a base. Two outer rails/forks are mounted to linear bearings that guide the outer rails/forks when moving inwardly or outwardly from the center rails for pre-sizing to the product. Pusher arms are formed of two outer pusher arms and one center pusher arm. These pusher arms are attached to linear bushings that guide the pusher arms forward and backward. The pusher arms push off the product simultaneously as the robot is withdrawing the rails. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090280000 | High tonnage trailer combination, trailer components, and method of use - A trailer combination and trailer components are designed to provide dual functionality in terms of hauling a very high tonnage piece of heavy equipment and the ability to continue to haul more typical pieces of heavy equipment. To accomplish this task, a trailer auxiliary is provided that is adapted to connect to a typical low boy trailer. The trailer auxiliary is equipped with mechanisms to provide a bed assembly that is designed to link to the low boy trailer so that the bed assembly and bed of the trailer auxiliary receive the high tonnage piece of equipment. The trailer auxiliary can be equipped with ramps to interface with the trailer and auxiliary to facilitate the loading of the heavy equipment. The trailer combination also includes a hauling vehicle for each of the low boy trailer and auxiliary, with a spacing bar assembly mounted to one of the vehicles to link the vehicles together when hauling the trailer and the auxiliary. | 11-12-2009 |
| 20090285665 | SUBSTRATE PROCESSING MODULE EXCHANGE UNIT, VACUUM COATING INSTALLATION, METHOD OF EXCHANGING A SUBSTRATE PROCESSING MODULE FOR A VACUUM COATING INSTALLATION, AND USE OF A SUBSTRATE PROCESSING MODULE EXCHANGE UNIT - It is provided a substrate processing module exchange unit for a vacuum coating installation having at least one compartment with one or more substrate processing modules mounted and with a module port, the module exchange unit comprising a vacuum chamber, the vacuum chamber comprising a module exchange aperture and a vacuum-tight unit connection means adapted for establishing a vacuum-tight connection between the module exchange aperture and the compartment around the module port, wherein the vacuum chamber is sized for including at least two substrate processing modules. | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090297325 | GRAPPLE APPARATUS FOR HANDLING COTTON MODULES - A grapple apparatus for handling cotton modules includes a frame comprising first and second portions. The second portion is selectively movable relative to the first portion between an opened position and a closed position. The frame defines a module-holding space when the second portion of the frame is in its closed position. At least one powered roller device is connected to the frame and is selectively active to rotate an associated cotton module located in the module-holding space relative to said frame about a module axis of rotation. A method for handling cotton modules includes positioning a frame adjacent a cotton module and moving a second portion of the frame relative to a first portion of the frame from an opened position to a closed position to define a module-holding space in which the cotton module is received and retained. The method further includes activating at least one powered roller device that is connected to the frame to rotate the cotton module in the module-holding space relative to the frame about an axis of rotation. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090297326 | SPRING-LOADED ROD HANDLING DEVICE - A rod handling device includes a pivot rod, first clamp assembly pivotingly coupled to the pivot rod, a second clamp assembly pivotingly coupled to the pivot rod, and at least one locking assembly configured to move between a locked position and an unlocked position. While in the locked position the locking assembly prevents rotation between the first clamp assembly and the second clamp assembly. The rod handling device also includes a biasing member coupled to the pivot rod, the biasing member being configured to urge the locking assembly toward the locked position. | 12-03-2009 |
| 20090304490 | METHOD FOR HOLDING SILICON WAFER - The present invention is directed to provide a method for holding a silicon wafer, which can reduce contact scratches in contact with support members when holding a back surface of the silicon wafer, as well as prevent the wafer from bending when holding the back surface of the silicon wafer. The back surface of a silicon wafer of 300 millimeters or more in diameter and 700 micrometers to 1000 micrometers in thickness is held in contact with a support member or a suction member, specifically held within a region where a radius of the silicon wafer×0.50 to 0.80 from a center thereof. The silicon wafer is held in a state where the maximum amount of displacement within a wafer plane is 300 micrometers or less. The silicon wafer back surface is held in contact within the holding region in all the processes of holding the back surface of the silicon wafer in contact with the support member or the suction member. | 12-10-2009 |
| 20090324379 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR A CHEMICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION REACTOR - Embodiments of the invention generally relate to a levitating substrate carrier or support. In one embodiment, a substrate carrier for supporting and carrying at least one substrate or wafer is provided which includes a substrate carrier body containing an upper surface and a lower surface, and at least one indentation pocket disposed within the lower surface. In another embodiment, the substrate carrier includes at least open indentation area within the upper surface, and at least two indentation pockets disposed within the lower surface. Each indentation pocket may be rectangular and have four side walls extending substantially perpendicular to the lower surface. In another embodiment, a method for levitating substrates disposed on a substrate carrier is provided which includes exposing the lower surface of a substrate carrier to a gas stream, forming a gas cushion under the substrate carrier, levitating the substrate carrier within a processing chamber, and moving the substrate carrier along a path within the processing chamber. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20090324380 | Method for moving a wind turbine component, such as a wind turbine hub, from a transportation position to a wind turbine assembly position in or on the nacelle, the main shaft or the hub, a Handling unit, a Wind turbine hub and Use hereof - The invention relates to a method for moving a wind turbine component, such as a wind turbine hub, from a transportation position to a wind turbine assembly position. The method comprises the steps of: attaching a handling unit to a structural part of the wind turbine component, operatively connecting the handling unit to a wire of a crane system, lifting the wind turbine component with the crane system to an assembly position of the wind turbine, the handling unit and the wind turbine component being suspended from a wire of the crane system, and rotating the wind turbine component with the handling unit during the lifting of the wind turbine component in order to orientate the wind turbine component for assembly. The invention also relates to a handling unit and a wind turbine hub and use hereof. | 12-31-2009 |
| 20100003119 | METHOD FOR PICKING UP DEVICE ATTACHED WITH ADHESIVE TAPE - A method for picking up a device stuck with an adhesive film includes an tape expansion step for expanding a dicing tape to increase intervals between devices and between adhesive films by pressing an area between an inner diameter of the annular frame of the dicing tape and the wafer by means of an expansion member with the annular frame held; and a picking-up step for picking up the device and the adhesive film from the dicing tape. A relative shifting rate between the expansion member and the frame holding means is set to 100 mm/second or more when the expansion member and the dicing tape are brought into abutment against each other in the tape expansion step, and the increased intervals between the devices and between the adhesive films are each set to 100 μm or more. | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100003120 | DRILLING RIG - A bolting apparatus and method for inserting a rod into a surface, the bolting apparatus including a base having a foot end and a head end, at least one stabilizing rod extendable from the base head end and having a stabilizing rod end adapted to contact a surface to be drilled, and a mechanism attached to the base between the base foot end and the stabilizing rod end and adapted to grip the rod. | 01-07-2010 |
| 20100008753 | Aerial grapple apparatus and method for handling loose material - A grapple, designed to grab, ferry, and dump loads of loose material such as mulch, comprising left and right frame members and finger assemblies with specially adapted curved fingers. Load arms connect the grapple to a supporting means, typically a helicopter, and also serve as anchors for finger cables and connecting arms cooperating with the finger assemblies to open and close the grapple. The method of grabbing prominently features using the shape of the fingers and the weight of the grapple and load to penetrate into and under the load. A latching mechanism cooperating with the connecting arms ensures stable ferrying until the remote operator, generally the helicopter pilot, activates an electrical control switch to release the latch and dump the load. | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100008754 | A METHOD OF SYNCHRONIZING A PICKUP OF A HANDLING DEVICE, A COMPUTER READABLE MEDIUM AND A CONTROL DEVICE - A method of synchronizing a pickup of a handling device, a computer readable medium and a control device are disclosed. During movement, a pickup of a multi-axis handling device is synchronized with an object to be picked up which is carried along by a conveyor device. Furthermore, the pickup is synchronized with a moving conveyor device in order to put the object down onto the conveyor device. The pickup is synchronized along a computationally-determined polynomial path of at least the 3 | 01-14-2010 |
| 20100014955 | GRIPPING FOR LIFTING MATERIAL WEB ROLLS, PARTICULARLY PAPER- AND PAPERBOARD ROLLS - A gripper for gripping vertical material web rolls ( | 01-21-2010 |
| 20100021279 | Pick up device with telescoping tube - This invention provides hand operated portable adjustable length devices for grasping and manipulation of objects as well as methods of their use. | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100021280 | STORAGE AND TRANSFER OF ORGANIC NANOFIBERS - The present invention relates to a method of transferring nanofibres from a template substrate ( | 01-28-2010 |
| 20100054903 | Method and Device for Manipulating an Object - A method for manipulating an object with a remote vehicle having an end effector attached to a manipulator arm. The end effector comprises a jamming material in a housing. The method comprises pressing the end effector housing to the object, activating the jamming material to grasp the object, and moving the manipulator arm to manipulate the object. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100054904 | Single towing vehicle for both car and cart - The present invention relates to a towing device which utilizes a towing base, wheels, and a plurality of movable tracks, a tongue hitch attachment, and a vehicle locator swivel plate. The invention can be supplied with hydraulic surge brakes or electric brakes, as well as brake and turn lights. Tie down straps are used for securing the vehicle to the dolly. The invention features an adjustable car locator swivel plate. This allows the adjustment of the weight distribution to “fine tune” the load. The tongue weight can be adjusted to comply with the RV hitch's requirements. Using the loading ramps supplied with the invention, the automobile and the golf cart can be ready for transport quickly and easily. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20100074723 | Cargo Container - Embodiments described herein comprise a system and method for collapsing a cargo container. The system may include a top container portion and a bottom container portion. One container portion is configured to fit into the other container portion thereby allowing the container to move between an expanded and a collapsed position. The container moves from an expanded position capable of being loaded with freight for shipping to a collapsed position for shipping when empty or when less freight is needed to ship. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100074724 | METHOD OF SUPPORTING AN UNLOADING CONVEYOR BRIDGE - The invention relates to method of supporting a unloading conveyor bridge extending substantially horizontally at the bottom level of a bulk material pile storage, implemented as supports in the area of the bridge ends as well as in at least one point therebetween. At least one of the supports is positionally adjusted in the vertical direction. The support force is thereby kept substantially constant at the actual support point. For the adjustment can be used spring loading, fluid pressure loading or gravity loading, for example. | 03-25-2010 |
| 20100080681 | METHOD OF ALIGNMENT AND TARGET INDICATOR - A target indicator for visual guidance of a container into secured engagement with a support surface by mating of at least one coupling. The coupling includes a support coupling fitting located on the support surface and a container coupling fitting located on the container. The target indicator includes an attachment at least partially formed with a high visibility exterior and configured to at least partially encircle a coupling fitting in use. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100080682 | BACK SAVER LIFT - A lift that is configured to securely lift, carry and deposit a control unit using three degrees of movement. The lift comprises a chassis having a support frame and a power source connected to the support frame. A pivot member rotatably connects to the support frame, wherein the pivot member has a pivot plate and a rod rotatably connected to the pivot plate. A lift frame connects to the rod of the pivot plate, wherein a lift arm rotatably connects to the lift frame. The lift further comprises a pressurized fluid drive operatively connected to the power source and operatively connected to the pivot plate, the lift frame and the lift arm. The fluid drive is configured to reciprocally move the pivot plate, the lift frame and the lift arm such that the lift arm moves in three degrees of movement with respect to the chassis. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100086390 | LIGHT WEIGHT, STRONG, FIRE RETARDANT DUNNAGE PLATFORM BAG AND SYSTEM OF LOADING, DISPENSING AND USING BAG - The present invention relates to methods of manufacturing lightweight thermoplastic dunnage platform decks or repairing and reusing damaged lightweight thermoplastic dunnage platform decks to be mounted with molded feet. In an embodiment of the present invention, a dunnage platform with damaged feet is modified such that the damaged feet are removed and replacement feet are attached. In an embodiment of the present invention, the damaged feet of a dunnage platform are removed and the resulting dunnage platform deck is shipped to a desired site whereupon molded feet are attached to the dunnage platform deck and the dunnage platform generated from the deck and molded feet is used for shipping cargo. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100086391 | Hose Handling Apparatus - A hose handling apparatus for gripping, advancing, and maneuvering a high pressure hose is provided. The hose handling apparatus comprises a support member comprising a first end, a middle section, and a second end, a generally cylindrical handle detachably connected to and substantially perpendicular to the first end of the support member forming a rigid connection with the support member to provide grip to a user's hand, a first generally cylindrical curvilinear gripping element detachably connected to and substantially perpendicular to the middle section of the support member, and a second generally cylindrical curvilinear gripping element detachably connected to and substantially perpendicular to the second end of the support member. The support member is angled at the middle section. The handle and the gripping elements form a parallel configuration which is perpendicular to a planar surface of the support member. The gripping elements grip the hose positioned between them firmly. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100104414 | Workpiece Transport Assembly And Method Of Using Same - A workpiece transport assembly includes an automatic guided vehicle having a guide wheel that drives the automatic guided vehicle along the production floor surface. A frame is releaseably attached to the automatic guided vehicle and defines a work area for assembling a workpiece. The automatic guided vehicle transports the frame to a reaction rail where the frame engages the reaction rail. A drive wheel assembly is mounted to the frame and includes a drive wheel that is movable between a drive wheel engaging position where the drive wheel engages the reaction rail to move the workpiece transport assembly along the reaction rail and a drive wheel disengaging position where the drive wheel disengages the reaction rail. The workpiece transport assembly is driven by at least one of the guide wheel and the drive wheel for movement through the assembly operation. | 04-29-2010 |
| 20100119349 | SUBSTRATE ALIGNMENT SYSTEM - A system for aligning an end effector with a substrate in a substrate transport apparatus. The system comprises a first sensor connected to the end effector and a controller for moving the substrate transport apparatus. The sensor has a sensing path pointed in an outward direction. The sensing path does not intersect the substrate when the substrate is located on the end effector. The controller for moving the substrate transport apparatus moves the substrate transport apparatus, based at least partially upon input from the sensor, to position the end effector at a predetermined position relative to the substrate to pick up the substrate onto the end effector. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100119350 | CLAMPING APPARATUS INCLUDING MOVABLE GRIPPER AND A SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE FABRICATION PROCESS USING THE SAME - A clamping apparatus capable of clamping various semiconductor substrates is provided. The clamping apparatus includes includes a main body, and a support plate partially coupled to the main body. The support plate is movable vertically. In addition, the clamping apparatus further includes a fixed gripper coupled and fixed onto the main body and a movable gripper disposed on the main body. The movable gripper is movable horizontally. | 05-13-2010 |
| 20100124480 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR GREEN AND RAPID PAPER PACKAGING - A package of sheet media and method of loading the package are presented in which a stack of sheet media is wrapped in a multi-layer strap, the multi-layer strap is operative to allow a user to load the package of sheet media into a media supply tray of an associated print engine, the multi-layer strap includes a third layer disposed between a first layer and a second layer, and the third layer is operative to allow the user to remove the multi-layer strap from the stack of sheet media while the stack of sheet media is positioned within the media supply tray. | 05-20-2010 |
| 20100150693 | Method for Moving and Aligning Heavy Device - Method for laterally replacing a heavy component of a plant assembly, the method including disconnecting the heavy component from other components of the plant assembly and from a base plate to which the heavy component is fixed; lifting the heavy component above the base plate with a lifting system provided within the base plate; connecting at least a pair of rails to the base plate, under the lifted heavy component, such that the at least a pair of rails extends at substantially a right angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the heavy component; lowering the heavy component on crawling mechanisms disposed on the at least a pair of rails; and laterally replacing the heavy component from the base plate and the other components of the plant assembly by actuating the crawling mechanisms. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100150694 | LIFTING DEVICE - A lifting device generally includes a handle portion having first and second ends and a support portion having first and second ends. The first end of the support portion is pivotably coupled to the first end of the handle portion and the second end of the support portion is releasably engageable with the second end of the handle portion, such that the lifting device may be positioned in at least a closed position and an open position. | 06-17-2010 |
| 20100158660 | Thermoelectric Device Based Mobile Freezer/Heater - A heating and cooling system is connected to a mobile food carrying cart comprising at least one shelf and one or more thermoelectric devices. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100178150 | ELEVATOR BELT INSTALLATION ASSEMBLY AND METHOD OF INSTALLING A BELT - A tool for hoisting a coated steel belt of an elevator system that includes a back plate to which a plurality of clamp assemblies is mounted. Each of the clamp assemblies includes a clamp plate biased by a biasing member to resiliently secure each of the belts. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100178151 | METHOD FOR LOADING AND UNLOADING A TRANSPORT DEVICE - A transport device for transporting elongated substrates through a vacuum coating system comprises an essentially rectangular frame and two groups of holding elements, which are rotatably mounted on opposite sides of the frame in such a manner that any pair of opposite holding elements can be connected to both ends of a substrate. Furthermore, at least one retainer bar is provided that is operatively connected to a group of holding elements in such a manner that the holding elements of this group are moveable in order to increase or decrease by choice their distance from the holding elements of the other group. Also provided are a loading and unloading device for loading and unloading the transport device, and a method for loading and unloading the transport device. | 07-15-2010 |
| 20100183422 | ARRANGEMENT FOR MONITORING THE LOCATION OF A MINING VEHICLE IN A MINE - A method and a system for monitoring the location of a mining vehicle in a mine. The mine includes a first and a second work area. At least one identifier whose exact location is known is arranged in the first work area. The location of the mining vehicle is determined continuously by use of a dead reckoning. The location data, based on the dead reckoning, can be updated by use of the identifier. The location data are transmitted to a mine control system for monitoring the mining vehicle. | 07-22-2010 |
| 20100189540 | Package for Consumable Products with Separately Sealed Compartments - A package for consumable products is disclosed. The package includes a plurality of subpackages connected together by a connecting member. For instance, the package may contain two subpackages or alternatively four subpackages all connected at one end to a connecting member. The package is particularly well suited to holding relatively large quantities of the consumable product. Because the subpackages are connected at one end, the package may be draped over an adjacent structure, such as a shopping cart. In this way, the package can be placed in a shopping cart without taking up an excessive amount of space. | 07-29-2010 |
| 20100196134 | STACKABLE PACKAGED GOODS PALLET - A pallet for shipping and displaying of packaged goods wherein the pallet comprises a plurality of stacking feet joined together by angled ribs to substantially prevent or inhibit spreading of the stacking feet due to high weight loads, a plurality of handles that include handle-strengthening areas and finger recesses to increase the strength and lifting ergonomics of the pallet, and an angled surface on the bottom of the stacking feet to facilitate transporting of the loaded pallet from a distribution vehicle to a retail location over certain obstacles. Accordingly, the packaged goods can comprise beverage trays filled or partially filled with beverage bottles, or any good and/or raw material for sale and/or use in manufacturing. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100196135 | FLAT SURFACE AIR BEARING ASSEMBLY - An air bearing assembly includes: an upper portion having a plurality of air supply and vacuum holes therethrough; a lower portion; and a plurality of spacers disposed between and maintaining the upper and lower portions in spaced relation, wherein a density of the air supply and vacuum holes is high enough to provide an air bearing for a substrate, but low enough such that at least one of: (i) a sufficient number of the spacers are employed, and (ii) the spacers are located in close enough proximity, to maintain a substantially uniform flatness of the upper portion relative to the lower portion. | 08-05-2010 |
| 20100215473 | GRIPPING DEVICE, FOR EXAMPLE FOR A ROBOT - A gripping device arranged for gripping an article | 08-26-2010 |
| 20100232925 | AUTO HOOK-UP DEVICE FOR DISABLED VEHICLES - An auto-latch mechanism enabling a towing vehicle to hook-up and tow-away a disabled vehicle without the need for either operator of the vehicles to exit their interior. In a preferred embodiment, the auto-latch mechanism includes opposing guide plates and a plunger pin with a distal portion movable to a location between the plates. When a connecting portion of the disabled vehicle is positioned between the opposing plates, the plunger pin may be engaged to the connecting portion, to thereby accomplish hook-up of the disabled vehicle to the towing vehicle. A method for using the auto-latch mechanism is also disclosed and claimed. | 09-16-2010 |
| 20100239406 | UNDERWATER EQUIPMENT RECOVERY - An apparatus and method for recovering equipment from within a body of water. The apparatus comprises a frame supporting a mesh and an engagement element. The engagement element is shaped to co-engage with the mesh and is attached to the equipment to be recovered prior to its deployment. Following deployment of the equipment, its recovery can be effected by lowering the mesh supported by the frame onto the equipment to cause the engagement element and the mesh to co-engage. The frame and mesh may then be lifted to the surface of the water bringing the equipment with them. Recovery may include searching for the equipment by monitoring a load associated with the frame and the mesh as it is lowered and raised at different locations, whereby an appropriate increase in load is taken to indicate that the equipment has become attached to the mesh. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100239407 | SUCTION PLATE OR BOWL HOLDER - A plate holder can include: a skirt having a top member and one or more side walls forming a cavity therebetween when the one or more side walls are resting on a substrate with the top member oriented away from the substrate; a base coupled with the skirt and located within the cavity, the base having one or more top suction device receptacles and one or more bottom suction device receptacles; one or more top suction devices coupled with the one or more top suction device receptacles such that the top suction device is oriented away from the substrate; and one or more bottom suction devices coupled with the one or more top suction device receptacles such that the bottom suction device is oriented toward the substrate. | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100239408 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR GRIPPING AND TRANSFERRING PIECES OF LUGGAGE - Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for automatically removing pieces of luggage that have different surface properties and dimensions and getting said piece of luggage ready for further transport by means of a gripper which is hingedly connected to a robot arm and is equipped with suction elements. Said method and apparatus have the following features: a) the gripper and the container that is to be emptied are moved close to each other; b) the first piece of luggage that is to be removed and is determined based on specific criteria, e.g. in case of horizontal unloading, is gripped by the suction element holder ( | 09-23-2010 |
| 20100247281 | Double Offset Caster System - A double offset caster system uses two sets of rotatable offsets relative to one another so that the caster can move relative to the load. The offset changes in order to change the relative offset between the caster position and the load. | 09-30-2010 |
| 20100254795 | MODULAR CEMENTED PLANAR STRUCTURE - A modular cemented planar structure is formed from a plurality of cells and a cementitious mixture. In particular, the plurality of cells can be formed by a polymeric cellular confinement system. The resulting structure is useful in many civil engineering applications. The structure allows for homogeneous curing with minimal shrinkage and cracking, as well as easy and cost effective assembly in the field. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100278626 | Collecting Apparatus with Seat - A collecting apparatus having a seat, and method of use thereof, wherein the collecting apparatus comprises a plurality of selectively positionable elastic members secured to a plurality of securing points on a lower portion of a frame or a removable base section connected to the frame. The elastic members are secured to user-selected securing points so that the distance between the elastic members can accommodate objects of different sizes. The collecting apparatus is pressed on top of a ball or similar object, causing the elastic members to separate and allow the ball or similar object to enter and be retained within the frame. Upon entering of the object within the frame, the elastic members retract to their original position, therein preventing the object from falling back out. Objects can be retrieved by lifting the seat or reaching through an aperture formed by a seat opening and a frame front opening. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100278627 | CASSETTE AND EMBEDDING ASSEMBLY FOR HANDLING AND HOLDING TISSUE SAMPLES DURING PROCESSING, EMBEDDING AND MICROTOME PROCEDURES, STAGING DEVICES THEREFOR, AND METHODS THEREFOR - The disclosure relates to a cassette, frame and mold for holding a tissue sample during an embedding and mircotoming process, and related methods. The cassette is sectionable in a microtome and includes a body with a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls. First and second side walls are generally V-shaped to present an apex of the “V” to the microtome blade. A lid of the cassette is stiffer than the bottom wall of the cassette to assist with positioning the tissue sample. The side walls of the cassette are perforated so as to significantly reduce the amount of cassette material that must be cut by the microtome blade. In one embodiment, to additionally reduce blade wear the ribs on one side wall are offset lengthwise relative to the ribs on an opposite side wall. An upper flange of the cassette includes depressions configured to register with detents in the frame. | 11-04-2010 |
| 20100284777 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LOADING SAMPLES IN AN ANALYZER - What is disclosed are methods and apparatus for loading or removing samples for testing. The apparatus comprises a sample disk body for holding a sample for testing, a sample disk lid configured to cover at least a part of the sample disk body and comprising a fixed lid which is fixedly attached to the sample disk body and a movable gate which is movable relatively to the fixed lid, and a locking mechanism to lock the movable gate into a closed position. The opening and closing of the movable gate is controlled by the locking mechanism to prevent inadvertent opening of the sample lid while the sample disk is operating. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100284778 | Transport Container for Nuclear Fuel Assembly and Method of Transporting a Nuclear Fuel Assembly - A container for a non-irradiated nuclear fuel assembly including a single casing for receiving at least one nuclear fuel assembly, the casing being formed from an elongate tubular shell, the shell including a metallic internal layer delimiting at least one individual housing for receiving a nuclear fuel assembly, and a metallic external layer surrounding the internal layer, the shell being filled between its internal layer and its external layer, and from lids for closing the or each housing at the longitudinal ends of the shell. | 11-11-2010 |
| 20100290886 | Robot having end effector and method of operating the same - The present invention relates to an end effector including: blade members for holding substrates, each configured to hold the substrate, and configured such that each interval between the blade members can be changed; a blade support unit configured to support the blade members, the blade support unit being configured to be driven integrally with the blade members by the robot; and blade drive means configured to change the interval between the blade members by moving at least one of the blade members relative to another blade member. | 11-18-2010 |
| 20100296908 | Industrial Automatic Object Transportation System and Operation Method of the Same - An operation method of an industrial automatic object transportation system includes: determining current positions and orientations of a vehicle by a positioning system and a digital compass device of the industrial automatic object transportation system when the industrial automatic object transportation system is kept in an operation state; moving the vehicle toward a loading area where a plurality of objects are located based on an electronic map of a stock area; scanning the objects to identify a target object and lifting up the target object when the vehicle reaches the loading area; moving the vehicle with the target object toward an unloading area based on the electronic map of the stock area; and determining an unloading location of the target object based on RFID codes of the target object to unload the target object at the unloading location when the vehicle reaches the unloading area. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100296909 | STRUCTURALLY REINFORCED SULFUR BLOCKS AND PROCESSES OF MAKING - Sulfur is conventionally stored in solid form and melted to be transported in liquid form or transformed into small pellets, called prills or small briquettes. Transportation of solid sulfur can result in dust creation, exposure to weather and moisture, and corrosion of the transport equipment. The present invention discloses a method of making structurally reinforced blocks of sulfur, sized for transport. The blocks are structurally reinforced with an internal structure, by layering during manufacturing or by an external structure frame or container. A protective coating can be applied. | 11-25-2010 |
| 20100310351 | METHOD FOR HANDLING AND TRANSFERRING A WAFER CASE, AND HOLDING PART USED THEREFOR - In a method for handling a wafer case having attachable and detachable grips, the method comprising the step of handling the wafer case e in an automatic transfer line while the attachable and detachable grips are detached from the wafer case and holding parts allowing an automatic transfer unit to hold the wafer case are attached to portions of the wafer case from which the attachable and detachable grips have been detached. The holding parts allow an automatic transfer unit to hold the wafer case. | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100310352 | ADAPTOR PALLET AND METHOD OF HANDLING CARGO - An adaptor pallet ( | 12-09-2010 |
| 20100329834 | Low Friction apparatus(LFA) - An apparatus and method for creating and utilizing a low friction structure is provided. The low friction apparatus (LFA) of the present embodiments allow for moving a load across a work surface with minimal effort. The LFA provides for easier movement over a transport surface area, wherein the impact of a large bearing area is minimized using minimal friction. The LFA is further adapted to greatly reduce the frictional force between a load and a work surface thereby allowing low surface stress on a work surface combined with ease of movement. In addition, the LFA provides low friction and subsequent ease of motion even while turning or moving sideways since its characteristics are non directional. | 12-30-2010 |
| 20110008146 | Method and Apparatus for Lifting Cumbersome Articles - Method and apparatus for gripping and lifting heavy and cumbersome objects is disclosed. A slotted safety latch lever assembly permits the pivoting action of an upper tube relative to a main tube, facilitating the gripping and releasing action of arm assemblies at either end of the main tube. The length of the main tube is adjustable, permitting the main tube to shorten or lengthen as needed for gripping the object. The upper tube has a lifting device connector selectively positioned longitudinally relative to the upper tube for achieving correct balance point for lifting. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110008147 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HANDLING AEROGENERATOR BLADES - Method and apparatus for handling aerogenerator blades that provide a versatile means for handling aerogenerator blades without an unbalanced distribution of the loads in the blade. The method comprises positioning an upper mounting part ( | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110014026 | MOBILE SUPPORT APPARATUS - A mobile support apparatus that includes one or more extension and retraction devices and a unit that is releasably attachable to vertical members of the apparatus such that the apparatus can be extended in one or more stages to a vertical height that is substantially greater than the height of the fully retracted apparatus. The mobile support apparatus is useful for a multitude of new and existing construction-related applications. | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110014027 | LIFT AND MOUNT APPARATUS - The present invention provides devices, apparatuses, and systems for lifting and mounting of clinical- and research-related equipment. In particular, the present invention provides a lift and mount system for mass spectrometers (e.g., for time of flight (TOF) mass spectrometers (MS)). | 01-20-2011 |
| 20110033278 | Device and method for lifting sheet piles - A device enables a sheet pile to be lifted from a horizontal position on the ground to a vertical position in the air, where it can be attached to a vibratory hammer. The device comprises two members, one of which attaches to the sheet pile and the other to the vibratory hammer. The two members are rotatably connected by a spindle, and they can be alternately locked into an extended (straight vertical) or bent (perpendicular) orientation by a lever-actuated spring-loaded key in the lower member that engages one or more slots in the upper member. | 02-10-2011 |
| 20110038703 | Fill-a box - The invention Fill-A-Box is a specific process that through it's execution, keeps (HHW)(HW) from reaching the landfill. The Fill-A-Box process establishes a new standard in collecting, sorting, weighing, and categorizing data from the individuals households or residences. The collecting element of Fill-A-Box provides for the pick-up of: Plastics, Glass, Paper, Unused/Unneeded Pharmaceuticals, Cardboard, Aluminum, Batteries, and Electronic waste. Fill-A-Box has a compartmentalized design, allowing for user friendly placement of products. Upon curbside pick-up of Fill-A-Box, it is scanned and weighed. Once reaching the operations center, each compartment is counted then weighed. Finally all the data that has been established is sent into a database. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110038704 | Sub-field enhanced global alignment - Sub-field enhanced global alignment (SEGA) methods for aligning reconstituted wafers in a lithography process are disclosed. The SEGA methods provide the ability to accommodate chip placement errors for chips supported by a reconstituted wafer when performing a lithographic process having an overlay requirement. The SEGA methods include measuring chip locations to determine sub-fields of the reconstituted wafer over which enhanced global alignment (EGA) can be performed on the chips therein to within the overlay requirement. The SEGA methods further included individually performing EGA over the respective sub-fields. The SEGA methods take advantage of the benefits of both EGA and site-by-site alignment and are particularly applicable to wafer-level packing lithographic processes such as fan-out wafer-level packaging. | 02-17-2011 |
| 20110052364 | apparatus and method for handling railway rails - An apparatus for handling railway track components has a self-propelled vehicle with ground-engaging rolling means spaced either side of a working space and a load-bearing platform adapted for spanning the working space so as to support a part of a load being transported using the self-propelled vehicle. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110052365 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PICKING UP OPTICAL ELEMENTS - A device capable of picking up optical elements includes a first suction member, a second suction member, a vacuum pump unit and a liquid spraying unit. The first suction member defines a chamber. The second suction member is arranged around the first suction member to form an annular space. The vacuum pump unit pumps the air out of the chamber and the annular space to create a vacuum therein, which generates a suction force to suck the optical elements respectively. The liquid spraying unit communicates with the chamber and the annular space, and pours the liquids into the chamber and the annular space. When the liquid volatilizes in the chamber and the annular space to fill the vacuum, the optical elements disengage from the first suction member and the second suction member respectively. | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110052366 | Device And Method For Secure Control Of A Manipulator - A method according to the invention for controlling a manipulator, in particular a robot ( | 03-03-2011 |
| 20110058927 | GRIPPER FOR A CONTACT LENS AND PROCESS FOR TRANSPORTING A CONTACT LENS - A gripper ( | 03-10-2011 |
| 20110064558 | Attachment for pallet jack - A pallet jack attachment that is adapted to be coupled to the back support of a standard manual or a battery operated lift that has the ability to lift objects off the floor from a lifting range of zero inches to any desirable height. The attachment supports the back of any container. | 03-17-2011 |
| 20110070062 | TRANSPORT CONTAINER - A transport container inside an insulating shell is described. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110085883 | ADJUSTABLE WEAR AND DIVERSION DEVICE FOR BULK MATERIAL TRANSFER SYSTEMS AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - A wear device for a bulk material transfer system comprises a first wear member and an attachment mechanism. The attachment mechanism is connected to the first wear member and is lockable in a manner that fixes the first wear member in a first position relative to the flow path of the bulk material. The attachment mechanism is also selectively unlockable in a manner such that the first wear member can be moved toward the flow path to a second position. Still further, the attachment mechanism is lockable in a manner that fixes the first wear member in the second position relative to the flow path. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110085884 | Multi-directional transport device for scaffolding - A multi-directional scaffold transport device, which may be attached to each base of a scaffold's legs, provides increased mobility in relation to movement atop corrugated floor decking with vertical anchor studs used in conventional steel I-beam superstructures. The device comprises an elongated flat plate with angled extensions. The angled extensions may form a trapezoidal shape, or more preferably a triangular shape, and may be curved or have compound curvature to enable deflection of the device to either side of any anchor stud encountered, rather than jamming thereon. The elongated flat plate may have minimal length sufficient to normally receive support from at least two peaks of the corrugated decking. The device may incorporate threaded studs protruding from the elongated flat plate, which may be received by holes in the base of the scaffold, and be removeably fastened thereto using nuts. The device may also incorporate vertical walls for increased stiffness. | 04-14-2011 |
| 20110097185 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR MANIPULATING THE WIRE-ENDS OF WIRES - An apparatus and method for insertion of wire-ends into connector housings includes a wire gripper with two wire-end gripping jaws. The wire gripper has a slider apparatus with a guide element and a slider coupled to the first gripping jaw wherein the first gripping jaw and the slider are borne displaceably relative to the second gripping jaw along the guide element. A pressured actuator acts through a movement converter on the wire gripper to initiate a coarse movement of the first gripping jaw relative to the second gripping jaw and rotating movement of a motor is converted by the movement converter into a fine movement of the first gripping jaw relative to the second gripping jaw. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110097186 | EXPORT RACK FOR SHEET-LIKE ARTICLES - The present invention is directed to an export rack for shipping sheet-like articles. More specifically, the present invention is directed to an export rack that includes at least one support, a removable gate and at least one top restraint. The removable gate includes at least one wedge that is configured to secure sheet-like articles loaded in the export rack. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110110756 | Pickup Truck Bed Slider and Method of Operation - A slide which slides along a retainer attached to the bed of a pickup truck. The slide has a rearward end proximate the tail gate and a forward end proximate the cab of the truck. The rearward end preferably has gripping features allowing a user to easily grasp the slide and pull it rearward within the fixed retainer. The slide's forward end has an upstanding foot which engages cargo within the bed and propels it toward the tailgate. Two or more such devices can be installed in parallel and used simultaneously to unload cargo. | 05-12-2011 |
| 20110116905 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSPORTING ELONGATED, CUMBERSOME LOADS - Elongated, cumbersome goods are transported using articulated trucks and unloaded using a crane. A method and an apparatus for transporting and use as crane for elongated, cumbersome loads over wide distances even under unfavorable infrastructure is proposed comprising a cable-guided lifting member, wherein when changing the transport mode to the crane mode the transported goods remain in the transport unit and the process is remotely controllable from the ground. In the transport mode, the load ( | 05-19-2011 |
| 20110123309 | REPLACEMENT STATION FOR THE TRACTION BATTERIES OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES - A replacement station for the traction batteries of electric vehicles, preferably of passenger vehicles, which are arranged such that they can be replaced from underneath, alongside a vehicle axis in the direction of travel, in the floor area of the electric vehicle. In order to replace the traction battery, the electric vehicle is positioned, guided by tracks, above a hatch which is provided in the floor of the replacement station, and the traction battery is replaced through the hatch. In order to considerably minimize the total time required for completely automatic replacement of the traction battery without any disturbances, and to maintain a high safety standard in operation during the process, the track guidance guides at least those wheels which are arranged on one longitudinal side of the electric vehicle and in that, during track guidance, the electric vehicle is moved automatically by a controlled external drive, which acts on the electric vehicle. | 05-26-2011 |
| 20110129325 | MANUFACTURING METHOD OF A TRAY, A SOCKET FOR INSPECTION, AND A SEMICONDUCTOR DEVICE - The yield of semiconductor devices is to be enhanced. A tray is provided with a plurality of pockets each capable of accommodating a wafer level CSP, and each of the pockets is provided with a base for supporting a plurality of bumps of the wafer level CSP and side walls formed around the base. In the step-to-step carriage in the post-production process of the manufacture of wafer level CSPs and on like occasions, the base supports not the organic film but the plurality of solder bumps. For this reason, it is made possible to prevent the organic film from being flawed or coming off and adhering to the product as foreign matter, and as a result the quality and yield of the wafer level CSPs (semiconductor devices) can be improved. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110135438 | SEMI TRAILER DOLLY - A dolly is disclosed for a semi-trailer that has a compromised structure due to a load shift or an accident. The semi-trailer dolly can also be used to extricate a semi-trailer stuck under a bridge without damaging the wheels or tires of the semi-trailer. In accordance with an important aspect of the present invention, the dolly is configured to provide transverse support of a semi-trailer in an area between the rear axles of the semi-trailer and the front of the semi-trailer. More particularly, the dolly is configured to provide a uniform transverse lifting force to a semi-trailer in an area between the rear axles of a semi-trailer and the front of a semi-trailer where a structural failure of the semi-trailer is likely to occur. The semi-trailer dolly includes a removable saddle and a wheeled cart that includes lifting mechanisms. The removable saddle can be removed from the wheeled cart and positioned under the trailer. Tow truck boom winches connected to opposite sides of the saddle can then be used to lift the saddle and thus the trailer to enable the wheeled cart to be put in position under the saddle. Once the wheeled cart is positioned under the saddle, adjustable lifting mechanisms on the wheeled cart enable the height of the saddle to be varied. The lifting mechanisms are then used to level the floor of the semi-trailer and provide support for the floor of the semi-trailer | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110142589 | TURBINE COMPONENT TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A transportation system and a method for transporting a rotor blade under a height-restricting obstacle defining a clearance height are disclosed. The method includes transporting a first end of the rotor blade under the height-restricting obstacle. A transportation vehicle is configured to transport the rotor blade, the transportation vehicle including a bed on which the rotor blade is disposed. The method further includes moving a second end of the rotor blade from a raised position to a lowered position relative to the bed, the second end in the lowered position having a height less than or equal to the clearance height, and transporting the second end of the rotor blade under the height-restricting obstacle. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110142590 | MODULAR HEAVY LIFT SYSTEM - A single heavy lift system is made of modular units, each of which has a pair of supporting legs carrying a transverse beam therebetween. The beam is engaged to the supporting legs through jackup units that allow the transverse beams of several modular units move in unison and thus increase lifting capacity of the system. The modular units can be formed as modular, self-propelled units, transported to the site, where the lifting task is to be performed if necessary. The system can be positioned in a dry dock or offshore. | 06-16-2011 |
| 20110150622 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR TRANSPORTING MAIL - A method for mail handling, and a mail extraction cart. The mail extraction cart has a chassis formed by a wheeled base supporting a pair of lower support members and a pair up upper support members connected to the lower support members. The cart has a column of support shelves between each of the pair of upper support members and each of the pair of lower support members, the support shelves movable between at least a first position and a second position. The cart has a lever to control the position of the support shelves. In the first position, the support shelves are configured to engage a plurality of bins of a sorting machine. In the second position, the support shelves are configured to remove the plurality of bins from the sorting machine to be carried by the mail extraction cart. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110158783 | LADDER SYSTEM - A ladder system is provided for facilitating access through a confined opening. The system includes a support arrangement having a first bar. The first bar may be positioned on a surface adjacent an opening. A removable ladder support cradle, including a pair of ladder supports, is coupled to the first bar. A ladder is removably coupled to the support cradle within the opening. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110164955 | PROCESSING CHAMBER WITH TRANSLATING WEAR PLATE FOR LIFT PIN - Embodiments of a method and apparatus for processing large area substrates including a translational wear plate and/or bushing assembly are provided for reducing the stress on a lift pin used to space substrates from a substrate support in a processing or other type of chamber. In another embodiment, an apparatus for processing substrates includes processing chamber comprising a substrate support disposed in a chamber body. A bushing assembly is disposed in the substrate support. A lift pin is disposed through the bushing assembly. A wear plate is provided that is coupled to the chamber body and aligned with the lift pin. The wear plate is movable laterally relative to a centerline of the chamber body to accommodate lateral motion of the lift pin when contacting the wear plate. | 07-07-2011 |
| 20110176902 | Crane Cable Roller Assembly - A crane cable roller assembly is disclosed. The assembly may be attached to an anchoring structure above an existing lower floor. When objects are located interiorly on the existing lower floor, a cable of a crane can be lowered and laid against a roller of the assembly and attached to the object. Lifting of the cable vertically also pulls the object toward the outer peripheral area and toward the edge of the floor so that the cable of the crane can be attached to the object and be vertically lifted to reposition the object as desired. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110176903 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CONVERTING AIRCRAFT FROM COMMERCIAL TO MILITARY FREIGHT SERVICE - A method and apparatus for converting aircraft from civilian cargo to CRAF use includes a pallet guide attached to the cargo deck of the aircraft. The pallet guide includes a pair of L-shaped structural channel members that are arranged back-to-back and staggered longitudinally along the length of the aircraft cargo deck. The L-shaped guide members are staggered back-to-back to enable military 463 L pallets to be guided along both the port and starboard sides of the pallet guide with one row of pallets loaded transverse to the centerline and one row of pallets loaded parallel to the centerline. The pallet guide includes a third guide member comprising a substantially T-shaped body displaced laterally with respect to the L-shaped guide members. For loading and unloading standard commercial pallets, the L-shaped guide members are rotated into a retracted position below the deck height of the cargo deck. The T-shaped guide member are then be moved from a retracted position below the deck height to a deployed position to engage the edges of the commercial pallets. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110176904 | Method of transportation for wind turbine tower - A method and an arrangement for transporting a wind turbine tower are provided. A longitudinal axis of a tower segment is substantially aligned horizontally during the transportation. The tower segment is deformed in a cross section during the transportation by a force which is applied to a wall of the tower segment. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110176905 | IMPLEMENT, A SYSTEM, AND A METHOD FOR THE MANIPULATION OF ELONGATED PIECES - An implement for transfer of long pieces. At least two casings are fitted in a frame of the implement. Inside the casings ends of the long pieces bound in a bundle can be inserted. The ends of the pieces are supported to the casings when the piece is lifted, and the casings lift all the pieces with them. Mounting units are fitted in the frame for mounting to a transfer device for moving the implement and for transferring the pieces. A system includes a transfer device, on which the implement is mounted; and at least one bundle of long pieces bound to each other. Placement, shape and dimensions of the pieces substantially corresponds to placement, shape and dimensions of the casings such that the ends of the pieces can be inserted into the casings of the implement for the transfer of the bundle. A method includes transferring the implement with a transfer device such that the ends of the long pieces, separate or bound in a bundle, are transferred into the casings of the implement, but the pieces are otherwise left outside the casing. | 07-21-2011 |
| 20110188983 | Rail Car And Method For Transport Of Bulk Materials - Disclosed are a method and an assembly for balk transport. An inflatable bladder is inserted into a container and disposed proximal and above a gravity-fed aperture. The container may be, for instance, a hopper rail car. A bulk material then is introduced into the container, the bulk material being, for instance, a grain-based material such as corn gluten feed. The bladder is positioned and preferably secured laterally with respect to the aperture to impede access to the aperture by the bulk material. When the container has reached the transport destination, the bladder is deflated. If the bulk material has set up during transport, access to the aperture nonetheless will have been maintained. | 08-04-2011 |
| 20110206491 | Pipeline Pig Storage Rack Apparatus - A pipeline pig support rack apparatus includes a frame having a plurality of supports mounted thereon, each extending upwardly from the frame. Each pipeline pig support includes clamps that are comprised of first and second u-shaped members that are attached with a hinge. A bolted connection opposite the hinge is provided for holding the u-shaped members together in a closed position when securing a pipeline pig. Lifting eyes on the frame are provided for enabling the frame, its pig supports and any contained pipeline pigs to be lifted as a unit. A basket receptacle optionally is provided that receives the frame. The frame and basket receptacle are each independently liftable. The basket receptacle prevents spillage of hazardous materials that might be residing upon the pigs after they have been used to clean a particular pipeline. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110206492 | DOWNHOLE TOOL PROTECTOR APPARATUS AND METHOD - An oil, gas or water borehole drill bit protector apparatus ( | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110206493 | Catalyst Foils and Methods and Apparatus for the Insertion of Foils into Catalytic Reactors - An insertion apparatus is provided for inserting at least one catalytic insert into each of a multiplicity of reactor channels. The apparatus includes a magazine configured to locate a multiplicity of catalytic inserts, a guide element for guiding the movement of a catalytic insert as it is inserted into the reaction channel, and a pushing member to push a catalytic insert out of the magazine, through the guide element, and into a reactor channel. An automated method for inserting catalytic inserts into reactor channels is also provided. The method includes the steps of: aligning the insert with a reaction channel, and pushing the insert through a guide element into the channel. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110223002 | Method for handling welding gas bottles - The method of landing a welding gas bottle in a predetermined location on a support tray on a welding machine by providing a non-supporting area between two supporting areas and a having a hand truck which provides a welding gas bottle support which will fit between the supporting areas and allows the hand truck support to pass between the support areas of the support tray and thereby transfering the support of the welding gas bottle from the hand truck to the support tray by a pivoting of the handle of the hand truck. | 09-15-2011 |
| 20110236173 | System, apparatus, and method for supporting a vehicle for underbody servicing - A system for supporting vehicles above a ground surface to provide access to an underbody, includes four vertical supports each having a vertical support member. A first elongated beam member has a central portion configured for connecting to a vehicle frame front part, the first beam member having opposed ends. A second elongated beam member has a central portion configured for connecting to a vehicle frame rear part, the second beam member having opposed end portions. The first beam central portion includes means for releasably attaching the first beam member to the towing/tie-down structure on the vehicle frame front part, and the second beam member central portion includes means for releasably attaching the second beam member to the towing/tie down structure on the vehicle frame rear part. Each of the first beam member opposed ends and the second beam member opposed ends is configured with a recess to releasably receive a respective support member to restrain relative movement among all the support members in a horizontal plane. | 09-29-2011 |
| 20110243705 | DEVICE FOR HANDLING MANUFACTURING RINGS, FORKLIFT INCLUDING THE SAME, AND METHOD OF HANDLING MANUFACTURING RING - A lifting apparatus for lifting manufacturing rings is provided. The lifting apparatus includes an attachment part having an opening extending therethrough, and a plurality of elongated legs extending from the attachment part. Each of the elongated legs has a slit disposed therein. A plurality of support rods are movably disposed in the slits. The support rods are pivotable between a lowered position in which each support rod extends from the associated slit and a raised position in which each support rod is disposed within the associated slit. The lifting apparatus further includes an actuating part operably associated with the support rods and for moving the support rods between the raised position and the lowered position. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110243706 | Method Of Moving The Rotating Means Of A Wind Turbine During Transportation Or Stand Still, Method Of Controlling The Moving Of The Rotating Means, Nacelle, Auxiliary Device, Control And Monitoring System And Use Hereof - Methods of moving a rotating device of a wind turbine during transportation or standstill are provided. The methods include securing at least one auxiliary device to a position and connecting the device to one or more shafts of the rotating device at transportation or standstill. The auxiliary device is able to store, generate and/or convert energy during transportation, transferring energy continuously from at least one auxiliary device to one or more shafts of the rotating device during transportation or standstill, and moving one or more shafts of the rotating device continuously or discontinuously from a position to another. Also provided is a nacelle for a wind turbine, an auxiliary device, a control system for controlling moving of a rotating device of a wind turbine nacelle during transportation of the nacelle and use thereof. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110255947 | Vehicle Winch Side-Mount System - A vehicle winch side-mount system including a platform and a winch mounting structure configured to engage a mount of a winching device. The vehicle winch side-mount system is configured to be retained by the weight a vehicle tire. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110255948 | Suction Device - A suction device includes a handle assembly, a tube and a suction cup. The handle assembly includes a body defining a Venturi vacuum generator. The Venturi vacuum generator includes an inlet passage, an outlet passage and a valve bore. The inlet passage includes an inlet port. The outlet passage includes an outlet port and a suction port. A valve is disposed in the valve bore of the body. The valve provides selective fluid communication between the inlet passage and the outlet passage. An actuator is engaged to the body. The actuator is adapted to actuate the valve. The tube has a first axial end and an oppositely disposed second axial end. The first axial end is engaged to the handle assembly. The suction cup is engaged to the second axial end of the tube. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110255949 | LOADABLE CONTAINER WITH A SHELF - There is provided a container with a pallet with a loadable upper side and a closable sidewall. The container comprises at least three sides to be placed on top of the pallet in order to define a loadable volume. The container is adapted to be collapsed in case of no loaded objects onto the upper side of the pallet. The container comprises shelves suitable to be loaded with objects and at least one side of the sidewall is suitable to be opened in order to load the pallet randomly under the shelf and on the shelf. The shelves are mounted to one of the sides of the sidewall by mounting means. The container comprises at least a first shelf mounted on a first side of the sidewall and at least a second shelf mounted on another side opposite to the first side suitable to be connected with shelf connection means. | 10-20-2011 |
| 20110262259 | Portable retriever and method for collecting and dispensing tennis balls - An increased capacity portable retriever for collecting and dispensing tennis balls utilized on a flat surface comprising a horizontally elongated container having a front retrieving section with a top handle, a rear collecting section pivotably supported by two wheels coaxially mounted at a bottom wall and a front wall dispensing opening with a cover. The front retrieving section contains bottom parallel rods spaced from each other a distance smaller than the tennis ball diameter. The container has horizontal retrieving and vertical dispensing positions. The container includes a compartment capacity regulating element for dispensing balls individually. First method of retrieving, collecting and dispensing tennis balls includes repetitive transferring a substantial group of balls from the retrieving section towards the collecting section. Second method includes cyclical reducing the container compartment capacity correspondingly to a volume of balls group resided in the compartment after dispensing a comfortably reachable balls portion from the container. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110262260 | TOOL WITH ATTACHMENT FOR COLLECTING DEBRIS AND METHOD OF USING THE SAME - An attachment to a shovel having a shovel head and a handle is provided, converting the shovel into a tool for collecting debris. The attachment has a clamping head and a pivot arm shorter than the shovel handle, and a pivot for attaching the attachment to the shovel handle. The attachment is movable between a closed position when the shovel head and the clamping head are juxtaposed face to face forming a tunnel therebetween, and an open position when the shovel head and the clamping head are spaced apart. In operation, the clamping head is moved into an open position to collect debris, and then moved into a closed position towards the shovel head to secure the debris, followed by rotating the tool by 90° plus an offset angle, thereby causing the clamping head to open under its weight and the debris to fall through the tunnel. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110262261 | Device & Method for Moving a Load From a First Height to a Second Height - The embodiments of the invention are directed to a device and method for moving a load from a first height at a first location to a second height at a second location. The device includes a platform having a top surface and a bottom surface, and opposed guide members extending from the bottom surface of the platform and oriented along and parallel to the length of the platform. The device further includes a support member slidably engaged with the guide members, the support member capable of extending beyond the length of the platform or retracting beneath the platform. The device further includes a lift assembly having a frame and a controller. The frame is pivotably secured to the lower surface of the support member. The frame has a pair of parallel, opposed, leg assemblies where the height of the leg assembly is adjustable, and the controller controls the height of the leg assemblies. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110262262 | Tray Device - A tray device suitable for being used on a seat backrest where the tray device has a platform, a mounting member for securing the platform to the seat backrest, a lateral mounting member, a receptacle, a portable member that allows for the platform to be transported, a platform stabilization member, and a storage member. | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110262263 | Lifting Device and Method for Concrete Elements - A lifting device ( | 10-27-2011 |
| 20110268552 | Conforming Paper Tray Plate for Large Format Papers Having Attached ID Cards - This is a stacking tray especially useful in a paper marking system. When papers containing an ID or credit card attached are stacked, an uneven stack results where the card portion is thicker than the paper without the card. This presents a difficult situation for moving the stack onto a transport to a printer or other stations. To correct this uneven or thicker stack from hindering paper feed, two paper plate supports are provided, one a vertically movable plate and the other a fixed plate support. The ID card or credit card portion of the paper is always loaded onto the vertically movable plate thereby providing a substantially flat top stack for easy movement of the sheets from the stack. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110268553 | ANIMAL HAULING DEVICE - This invention relates to an animal hunting device which may be adjustably secured and removed to a head of a fallen game animal to facilitate movement of the animal. The device includes a head belt which forms at least one handle and wraps around the animal head, generally between the antlers and ears, to adjustably secure the animal head. The device further includes a muzzle belt which wraps around the animal muzzle, generally around the nose or muzzle of the animal, to adjustably secure the animal muzzle. Secured on the handle is a connector which is slidable about the handle. The connector may be attached to a vehicle to facilitate mechanical transportation of the animal, while the handle facilitates manual transportation of the animal. This invention may also incorporate a strap element or a measurement component. | 11-03-2011 |
| 20110274531 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LIFTING AND MOVING MERCHANDISE GONDOLAS - Apparatus and method for lifting and moving a merchandise gondola that includes a plurality of lift units, each lift unit including a substantially vertical first member, a substantially vertical second member, a substantially horizontal third member removably connected to the first member and removably connected to the second member, a gondola-coupling device centrally located on the third member and configured to couple to a top surface of a merchandise gondola, and a mechanical-lift mechanism operatively coupled to the lift unit and configured to lift the gondola-coupling device in a vertical direction relative to the third member, wherein the mechanical-lift mechanism includes a rotary assembly coupled to the lift unit and configured to provide a two-way mechanically advantaged connection to the gondola-coupling device from the first member and configured to be actuated to lift the gondola-coupling device while the first member and the second member remain substantially vertical. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110274532 | AUXILIARY DEVICE, ARRANGEMENT AND METHOD IN CARGO HANDLING - The invention relates to an auxiliary device in cargo handling. The auxiliary device is a strip, which is arranged on a base under a load. In the strip there are protrusions extending in one direction, in order both to separate the load from the base and to increase friction between the base and the load, in order to move the load by pulling on the strips. The invention also relates to an arrangement and a method in cargo handling. | 11-10-2011 |
| 20110293397 | End Effector for Picking, Forming, and Inserting U-Shaped Packing Insert - End of arm tool ( | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110293398 | CORNERBOARD APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR POSITIONING THE SAME ON A CONTAINER - An improved cornerboard that is usable to protect a corner of a shipping container is provided. The cornerboard reduces workforce required to secure the cornerboard to a plurality of shipping containers, such as a pallet of shipping containers. For example, the cornerboard permits a single individual to position cornerboards about the pallet of shipping containers and shrink wrap or otherwise secure the shipping containers with the cornerboards. In an embodiment, the cornerboard has a tab portion that is partially separable form the cornerboard and positionable between two shipping containers to prevent movement of the cornerboard and eliminate the need for an individual to hold the cornerboard. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110299968 | System and method for handling a nacelle of a wind turbine - It is described a system ( | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110299969 | DEVICE FOR GRASPING AND ACTIVE RELEASE OF MICRO AND NANO OBJECTS - The present invention relates to design and microfabrication methods for forming devices that are capable of grasping and actively releasing micro or nanometer-sized objects in ambient and vacuum environments. Grasping motion is produced by one or more microactuators, and rapid, accurate, highly reproducible active release is achieved through impacting an adhered object with a high-speed plunging structure. Two fabrication processes for constructing these new types of micro and nano gripping devices are also described. | 12-08-2011 |
| 20110311345 | HIGH ROLL DENSITY FIBROUS STRUCTURES - A roll of fibrous structure. The fibrous structure can be embossed and have a basis weight of less than about 45 pounds per 3000 square feet. The roll can have a roll diameter greater than about 6.5 inches and a roll density of greater than about 0.09 grams per cubic centimeter. The roll can also have a dispensed to effective caliper ratio of greater than about 1.01. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110318159 | Arrangement for Lifting a Tower Wall Portion of a Wind Turbine and Method for Lifting a Tower Wall Portion of a Wind Turbine - An arrangement for lifting a tower wall portion of a wind turbine is provided. The arrangement includes a bar, a first holding member and a second holding member. The bar is connectable to a coupling element of a lift. The first and second holding members have respective first and second engagement portions adapted for engaging the tower wall portion at a first position and a second position respectively, the first position being different from the second position. The first and second holding members are releasably lockable at the bar such that the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion are a first distance away from each other. The first and second holding members are also releasably lockable at the bar such that the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion are a second distance away from each other, the second distance being different from the first distance. | 12-29-2011 |
| 20120009054 | Railroad Freight Car Loading Or Unloading - The present invention discloses an apparatus for transporting a container or semi-trailer including: a deck, the deck tilted at an angle; a dolly located below a rear section of the deck; a landing gear located below a mid-section of the deck; a jack located below a front section of the deck; a rail located below the dolly and the landing gear; and an external propulsion mechanism that is not a locomotive. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120014775 | METHOD FOR HOISTING AND LOWERING DEVICE IN ROTOR HEAD OF WIND TURBINE GENERATOR - There is provided a method for hoisting and lowering a device in a rotor head of a wind turbine generator, that can easily perform a device hoisting and lowering operation in the rotor head without an external crane. The method for hoisting and lowering a device in a rotor head includes a step of mounting a temporary winch rail to a rail support portion previously provided in the rotor head, a step of installing a temporary winch on the temporary winch rail, a step of opening a maintenance hatch provided in the rotor head, and a step of hoisting and lowering a replacement device to be attached or removed in the rotor head through a hoisting and lowering opening in the maintenance hatch by the temporary winch. | 01-19-2012 |
| 20120027557 | METHOD AND ELECTROSTATIC TRANSFER STAMP FOR TRANSFERRING SEMICONDUCTOR DICE USING ELECTROSTATIC TRANSFER PRINTING TECHNIQUES - A transfer stamp that can be charged with a spatial pattern of electrostatic charge for picking up selected semiconductor dice from a host substrate and transferring them to a target substrate. The stamp may be bulk charged and then selectively discharged using irradiation through a patterned mask. The technique may also be used to electrostatically transfer selected semiconductor dice from a host substrate to a target substrate. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120027558 | TIRE STORAGE SYSTEM - A tire storage system includes two spaced apart arrays of tire storage locations. An array of transfer locations is disposed between the two arrays of storage locations. Tires are loaded on and removed from carriages when the carriages are at transfer locations. The carriages are movable from the transfer locations to the storage locations along a path which extends along central axes of tires disposed on the carriages. The carriages may be suspended above a floor. Upper and lower arrays of storage and transfer locations may be provided. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120027559 | TOOL AND METHOD FOR LIFTING AND DRAGGING HEAVY LOADS - The present document describes a user-operated tool and a method for lifting and dragging a heavy load on a surface. The tool comprises an elongated body having an upper end comprising a grip, a lower end for making contact with the surface in the vicinity of the heavy load, and a flex point located between the upper end and the lower end. The tool comprising a lift and drag member, having a hook member for hooking to the heavy load, connected to the elongated body and is movable about the flex point. The tool comprising a strap reel fixed on the elongated body for winding the strap thereon. In use, the user grips the tool and rotates the elongated member about the lower end and away from the heavy load. The lift and drag member thereby first lifts and then drags the heavy load toward the lower end. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120027560 | Bicycle Carrier and Method for Serially Loading Bicycles Thereon - Bicycle carriers and corresponding methods for loading bicycles and/or other wheeled vehicles onto such carriers are provided. In one embodiment, a bicycle carrier includes a support member (e.g., vertical or generally vertical support member), a hitch member, an elongate upper member, and an elongate lower member. The elongate upper member has an elongate body and a free distal end configured for receipt, serially one after another, of a plurality of wheels of a corresponding plurality of bicycles. For each bicycle, adjacent spokes of a bicycle wheel are positioned about the free distal end of the elongate member and the bicycle is moved backward along the elongate body towards the support member. The elongate body is configured to support the weight of the bicycles via contact with the rims of the bicycle wheels. The carrier is configured such that the bicycles hang generally vertically from the elongate body. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120027561 | LIFT SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONSTRUCTING A WIND TURBINE - A lift system and a method for constructing a wind turbine are disclosed. The lift system includes a rotor blade having exterior surfaces defining a pressure side, a suction side, a leading edge, and a trailing edge extending in a generally span-wise direction between a tip and a root. The lift system further includes a lift device including a sling and a quick release device. The sling is coupled to the rotor blade and includes a first end and a second end spaced apart by an intermediate portion. The second end is releasably joined to the first end by the quick release device. The quick release device is operable to release the second end from the first end to uncouple the sling from the rotor blade. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120034061 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR HOISTING AN ITEM BY MEANS OF A CRANE - A method and a device for hoisting an item at sea with a hoisting device comprises moving the item between a plurality of different height levels. In addition, the method comprises alternately supporting the load of the item with a first hoisting rope and a second hoisting rope while moving the item between the plurality of different height levels. Further, the method comprises arranging the first hoisting rope and the second hoisting rope to extend in parallel along at least part of the distance between the item and the hoisting device. Still further, the method comprises releasably connecting the first hoisting rope to the second hoisting rope. Moreover, the method comprises suspending the second hoisting rope from a hanger when the second hoisting rope is supporting the load of the item. The method also comprises connecting the hanger to an arm of the hoisting device. | 02-09-2012 |
| 20120070265 | MULTIPURPOSE TRANSPORT SYSTEM HAVING A ROOF ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR TRANSPORTING FOREST BIOMASS AND WOOD RESIDUALS - The present disclosure generally relates to a multipurpose transport system, a roof assembly, and methods for transporting forest biomass and wood residuals. Roof assemblies according to the disclosure are mountable on a top portion of a transport system. In some embodiments, roof assemblies include two or more panels, one or more panel movements assemblies operably connected each of the two or more panels, and one or more actuation assemblies. The two or more panels extend from a first side of the roof assembly to and second side of the roof assembly in a louvered configuration. Each of the two or more panels are moveable between a first position and a second position. Further aspects of the disclosure are directed towards multipurpose transport systems and methods for transporting forest biomass and wood residuals using systems according to the disclosure. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120099959 | TABLE TENNIS BALL COLLECTOR AND DISPENSER - A table tennis ball collector and dispenser collects and secures table tennis balls with minimal effort. The collector may comprise a frame supporting one or more cross members arranged to allow one or more table tennis balls to enter therebetween. A tubular elastic sleeve having open receiving and dispensing ends may be attached to the frame to capture table tennis balls that advance beyond the cross members. The sleeve may taper towards its dispensing end to secure the table tennis balls within. Individual or multiple collected table tennis balls may be dispensed by applying force to push the table tennis balls out of the dispensing end of the sleeve. A handle extending from the frame allows the user to position the frame | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120107083 | SINGLE JOINT ELEVATOR HAVING DEPLOYABLE JAWS - The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for lifting a single joint of pipe. The single joint elevator of the present invention comprises, in one embodiment, a pair of deployable jaws cooperating with a pair of static jaws to secure a pipe within the slot of a generally horseshoe-shaped body. The deployable jaws of the single joint elevator of the present invention may be rotatably deployable or translatably deployable, or both. In one embodiment, each jaw, including the static jaws and the deployable jaws, comprises a pipe slip movably disposed within the jaw to secure a pipe segment within the slot and to self-tighten as the weight of the pipe segment secured within the single joint elevator is transferred to the slips and the jaws. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120107084 | LIFTING FITTING - A lifting fitting for lifting a series of elements of different sizes in a wind turbine is proposed. The lifting fitting has a base plate having at least one central slotted hole shaped to accommodate a fastener for fastening the lifting fitting to an element to be lifted, at least two outer slotted holes each shaped to accommodate a further fastener for fastening the lifting fitting to an element to be lifted. The outer slotted holes are arranged transverse to the central slotted hole. The lifting fitting is connected to a lifting apparatus for lifting the element. A method of assembling the series of elements is proposed. The elements are successively lifted into place. The lifting fitting can be used in the assembly of a wind turbine tower having individually liftable tower sections for lifting the tower sections into place. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120134771 | Apparatus and method for side by side couplable pallets and carts - A pallet or cart which can be coupled to a similar pallet or cart in a side by side relationship is disclosed. The pallet or cart, at its one or right side, has coupling means at the top and bottom, which cooperate with associated coupling means on the top and bottom of the opposite or left side of an adjacent pallet or cart. The coupling means and associated coupling means can be connected to connect the two pallets or carts together to make them capable of being moved together, and even be lifted together by a standard lift truck or fork lift or a standard pallet jack. The coupling means are also releasable so that, when necessary, each pallet or cart may be used as would be a single pallet or cart. The pallet or cart may have one or more foldable shelves therein. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120141245 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR RESORTING PIECE GOODS ASSORTMENTS - A method for resorting piece goods assortments and in particular packaging unit assortments, includes the steps of supplying a first type of piece goods to a redistribution unit; supplying a second type of piece goods, which is different from the first type, to the redistribution unit; and picking up individual piece goods or groups of piece goods using a pick-up element of the redistribution unit, wherein the pick-up element picks up both piece goods of the first type and also piece goods of the second type and deposits these piece goods in such a way that a piece goods assortment consisting of piece goods of the first type and piece goods of the second type is formed. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120141246 | SUBSTRATE HOLDING APPARATUS, SUBSTRATE HOLDING METHOD, AND SUBSTRATE PROCESSING APPARATUS - A substrate holding apparatus can meet the request for a smaller-sized compact apparatus while ensuring a sufficient immersion depth of a substrate in a processing liquid. The substrate holding apparatus includes: a substrate holder for supporting a substrate (W) by bringing a peripheral portion of a surface of the substrate (W) into contact with a first sealing member; and a substrate pressing section for lowering relative to the substrate holder so as to press the substrate (W) held by the substrate holder downward, thereby bringing a first sealing member into pressure contact with the substrate (W). The substrate pressing section is provided with a second ring-shaped sealing member which makes pressure contact with an upper surface of a ring-shaped holding section of the substrate holder, thereby sealing the peripheral region of the substrate pressing section. | 06-07-2012 |
| 20120156002 | CONSTANT-TEMPERATURE STORAGE CONTAINER AND TRANSPORTATION METHOD - Disclosed is a container that is capable of maintaining articles requiring thermal management at a prescribed temperature without being influenced by the outside air temperature, and that is capable of storing and transporting the articles. The constant-temperature storage container is equipped with a heat-insulating box, and two or more types of cold-storing materials or heat-storing materials disposed therein; has a latent-heat first cold-storing or heat-storing material (a) disposed in a solid state adjacent to an article being kept cool or warm, and a latent-heat second cold-storing or heat-storing material (b) disposed in a molten state on the exterior of the first cold-storing or heat-storing material (a); and the solidifying and melting temperature of the first cold-storing or heat-storing material (a) exceeds 0° C. The constant-temperature storage container is capable of maintaining the article being kept cool or warm in an arbitrary temperature range exceeding 0° C. for long periods of time. | 06-21-2012 |
| 20120171006 | MODULE SUPPLY CHAIN - A system and method of fabricating and assembling of large-sized modules remote from a heavy industrial hydrocarbon processing plant site, and overland transportation thereof to the plant site. The method may rely on a computer-based heavy-haul transportation logistics system. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120171007 | Transport structure and methods for transporting and/or lifting a large scale generator - A transport structure for transporting and/or lifting a large scale generator, in particular a generator of a wind turbine is disclosed. A handling base is included with an upper side and a lower side and a first longitudinal end and second longitudinal end, and an interface arrangement at the handling base realized such that a generator can be releasably attached to the handling base in the direction of the upper side. A method for transporting and for lifting a large scale generator is disclosed. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120171008 | GRIPPING HEAD AND A METHOD OF TRANSFERRING A NUMBER OF PACKAGES - The present invention concerns a gripping head for packages of a wedge-like form. The invention also concerns a method of gripping a group of packages and transferring them into a box. The gripping head has side steering plates and pressure finger plates on two opposite sides. At one end of the gripping head a stop plate is arranged between the side steering plates and the pressure finger plates, while the opposite end is open. The side steering plates each has a number of steering plates and fingers of the pressure finger plates are placed on either side of the steering plates, which fingers are received in notches of the side steering plate. The fingers have folded lower ends. The side steering plates and the pressure finger plates are arranged mutually moveable bringing the folded lower ends of the fingers into and out of a position below the side steering plates. | 07-05-2012 |
| 20120189420 | Coupling System for Coupling Loudspeaker Housings, Loudspeaker Housing and Method for Hoisting Loudspeaker Housings - A coupling system ( | 07-26-2012 |
| 20120195733 | CABLE, GOODS LIFT SYSTEM, AND METHOD OF MAKING THE CABLE - A cable contains filaments containing carbon, surrounded by a sizing. The filaments surrounded by the sizing are covered by a matrix which is composed of a material containing at least one elastomer and/or at least one thermoplastic elastomer. The cable can be used, in particular for pulling a load, for example in a goods lift. | 08-02-2012 |
| 20120201644 | Rotating Organizer Using Jars or Other Containers for Storage - An organizer that may be mounted on either one or two surfaces, such as a wall, ceiling or floor, or two of them, using limited space, and using jars or other containers for storage. It has four wooden slats that have jars or other containers attached. In the first preferred embodiment, there are several jars, the number depending on the jar size, attached to each slat. The lids are fastened to the slats, and the jars can be opened by unscrewing them from their lids. In the second preferred embodiment, plastic containers, with lids that can snap open and shut, are attached to the slates. There are handles on one end to rotate the storage system. Because they are transparent, the jars or plastic containers allow you to visually select what you are looking for. These jars or plastic containers can hold anything from hobby Supplies to nuts and bolts. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120201645 | NON-CONTACT MANIPULATING DEVICES AND METHODS - Non-contact manipulating devices and methods can include a fluid distribution member including a first fluid port configured to dispense fluid and create a Bernoulli effect to attract an article to be manipulated by the manipulating device while maintaining a gap between the article and the fluid distribution member. The fluid distribution member can further include a second fluid port configured to dispense fluid to assist in maintaining the gap. The non-contact manipulating devices and methods can further include a controller configured to control a fluid flow through at least the second fluid port to help maintain the gap. | 08-09-2012 |
| 20120230806 | Hearing aid battery handler - An apparatus, kit or methods for improved handling of hearing aid batteries. The apparatus has a handle with a handle portion grasped by a user and a first end portion over which a nose piece is connected to capture at least one magnet therebetween. The nose piece which is preferably of a plastic contacts the hearing aid battery and provides a modified magnetic flux and easily slidable surface for easier handling of the hearing aid battery. The nose piece can be provided with apertures to adjust the magnetic flux applied to the hearing aid battery. The kit includes the apparatus therein and can also include extra batteries. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120230807 | AUTOMATED OBJECT MANIPULATION SYSTEM - An apparatus of an automated object manipulation system includes a support base; a finger assembly mechanically coupled to the support base; a first drive unit operable to rotate the finger assembly about a first axis; a second drive unit operable to rotate the finger assembly about a second axis; a third drive unit operable to rotate the finger assembly about a third axis, and a processor capable of conducting a profile assessment; determining a manipulation program in response to the profile assessment; and controlling the finger assembly in response to the manipulation program where the finger assembly has a support bracket with a set of parallel jaws and the support bracket is mechanically coupled to the first drive unit, a linking bracket mechanically coupled to the second drive unit and a circular frame mechanically coupled to the finger assembly and the third drive unit. | 09-13-2012 |
| 20120237330 | SHELF ALIGNING APPARATUS - According to one embodiment of the present invention, a shelf organizing apparatus is provided. According to this embodiment, the shelf aligning apparatus comprises a flat elongated arm unit having a handle at one end and a hinge at the other end. A trigger is attached to the handle and a flat paddle is attached to the hinge. A cable connects the trigger to the paddle such that in a first position of the trigger, the paddle is aligned in the plane of the arm unit and in a second position of the trigger, the paddle is disposed at an angle with respect to the plane of the arm unit. The shelf organizing apparatus may be used by inserting in between rows of goods when in the first position. Then, with the shelf organizing apparatus in the second position, it may be used to line up the goods in an even row and to pull the row of goods towards the front of the shelf. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120237331 | Portable Unloading Dock - A portable unloading dock including a lower frame, a first post member, a second post member, a support linkage, a curved ramp, one or more power generators, one or more first wheel apparatus, and one or more second wheel apparatus each independently mechanically coupled to the second ramp frame member. The portable unloading dock is used to transfer one or more wheeled objects from a first elevation to a second elevation. A method of using the portable unloading dock is also provided. | 09-20-2012 |
| 20120251289 | Cargo Delivery System and Method - Disclosed is an improved system and method for delivering and backhauling cargo to and from a destination. The present invention generally comprises a first and second truck that are in an outbound configuration to deliver a cargo to at least one location. The first and second truck each have at least one flatbed section. After the cargo has been delivered, the first and second truck assume a return configuration wherein the second truck and second truck flatbed is stored on and secured to the at least one flatbed section of the first truck for a backhaul destination for the second truck. It is important to note that no portion of the second truck and second truck flatbed section in the return configuration is in contact with the ground, they are only in contact with the first truck flatbed section. | 10-04-2012 |
| 20120263569 | SUBSTRATE HOLDERS AND METHODS OF SUBSTRATE MOUNTING - A substrate holder for holding a semiconductor substrate for processing in a molecular beam epitaxy system, the substrate including a front side, an opposite backside for epitaxial growth, and an outer edge extending between the front side and the backside, the substrate holder including a body comprising a central opening extending from a backside to a top side of the body, an inner ring surrounding the central opening, and a substrate support lip extending from the inner ring into the central opening, and at least one tensioning device operatively attached to the body and including a cam member and a spring in contact with a portion of the cam member, wherein the spring has a elongated portion and at least two contact portions extending from opposite ends of the elongated portion for contacting the outer edge of the substrate. | 10-18-2012 |
| 20120263570 | DEVICE AND SYSTEM FOR LIFTING A MOTOR VEHICLE - A preferred embodiment of a system includes a lifting device for lifting a motor vehicle, a support structure for mounting the lifting device in a pit, and a carriage for supporting the lifting device from the support structure and being movable within the support structure. The system also includes a cover coupled to opposite sides of the carriage so that the cover extends away from the carriage and continuously between the opposite sides of the carriage. | 10-18-2012 |
| 20120275896 | ROLL-IN PUSH CART - Embodiments of a roll-in push cot may comprise a support frame comprising a pair of lateral sides extending between a front end and a rear end, and a pair of slidable tracks disposed in the lateral sides; a pair of leading legs and a pair of trailing legs pivotally connected to the support frame; a front carriage member slidingly disposed within the pair of slidable tracks at the front end of the support frame, and a mechanical loading system coupled to the support frame and connecting the pair of leading legs with the pair of trailing legs, wherein the mechanical loading system comprises a front actuator disposed on the support frame in the motion path defined by the front carriage member, such that movement of the front carriage member triggers the front actuator and thereby initiates the release of the trailing legs. | 11-01-2012 |
| 20120282075 | STORAGE TRAY POPULATOR AND METHOD FOR POPULATING A STORAGE TRAY WITH A PLURALITY OF BIOLOGICAL SAMPLE CONTAINERS - A storage tray populator configured to populate a storage rack with a plurality of biological sample containers is provided. The storage tray populator may include a randomizer configured to receive the biological sample containers and randomly distribute the biological sample containers. Further, a transport apparatus may transport the biological sample containers from the randomizer to the storage rack. Additionally, a controller may control at least the transport apparatus. Thereby storage trays may be populated, and access to a desired biological sample may be improved. Methods for populating storage racks with a plurality of biological sample containers are also provided. | 11-08-2012 |
| 20120282076 | CASKET HANDLING SYSTEM - A multi-tiered casket handling system is configured to preferably be placed in a vehicle. Because the casket handling system admits to adjustability in its mounting, a wide range of vehicles can be used. Further, because the casket handling system has a system for tilting the rear upper tier and powered movement of caskets, the system is capable of handling greater numbers of caskets than is possible with conventional systems, thereby taking full advantage of larger vehicles. | 11-08-2012 |
| 20120294701 | AUTO HOOK-UP DEVICE FOR DISABLED VEHICLES - An auto-latch mechanism enabling a towing vehicle to hook-up and tow-away a disabled vehicle without the need for either operator of the vehicles to exit their interior. In a preferred embodiment, the auto-latch mechanism includes opposing guide plates and a plunger pin with a distal portion movable to a location between the plates. When a connecting portion of the disabled vehicle is positioned between the opposing plates, the plunger pin may be engaged to the connecting portion, to thereby accomplish hook-up of the disabled vehicle to the towing vehicle. A method for using the auto-latch mechanism is also disclosed and claimed. | 11-22-2012 |
| 20120301263 | AIRCRAFT MOVING DEVICE - A tow apparatus for moving an aircraft comprising a frame, a drive member, a contact wheel configured to engage with a nosewheel tire of an aircraft, a transmission portion, a shaft engageable with a nosewheel tire of an aircraft, and a torque arm rotatably supported by the frame. The transmission portion can be configured such that the drive wheels transfer and increase a rotational force produced by the drive member to the contact wheel. The shaft can be movable between a first position and a second position relative to the contact wheel so as to bring the contact wheel into contact with the nosewheel of the aircraft. The torque arm can substantially prevent the rotation of the tow apparatus relative to the nosewheel assembly of the aircraft when the torque arm is engaged with the nosewheel assembly of the aircraft. The drive member can have a portable power source. | 11-29-2012 |
| 20120315124 | Hose Retention Apparatus and Method Thereof - A hose retention apparatus and method of retaining a hose is provided. The hose retention apparatus includes a hose holding structure having an interior portion sized to hold a cross-sectional area of a hose without contacting a fluid path within the hose. A substantially rigid connecting member has a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the hose holding portion. A handle is secured to the second end of the substantially rigid connecting member. | 12-13-2012 |
| 20120321430 | MAGNETICALLY COUPLED THIN-WAFER HANDLING SYSTEM - The present invention describes a method of and an apparatus for including: separating magnets and corresponding target plates; separating a lower support assembly from an upper retainer assembly of a thin-wafer handling system; and inserting or removing a thin wafer from the thin-wafer handling system. | 12-20-2012 |
| 20130004286 | TOOL AND PROCESS FOR HANDLING PLIANT COMESTIBLES - A tool and process for handling a pliant comestible are disclosed. The tool includes a tool body including a recessed mold and a plurality of cavities. The tool body is configured to position the pliant comestible and retain the pliant comestible within the recessed mold. | 01-03-2013 |
| 20130011236 | Pipeline Pig Storage Rack Apparatus - A pipeline pig support rack apparatus includes a frame having a plurality of supports mounted thereon, each extending upwardly from the frame. Each pipeline pig support includes clamps that are comprised of first and second u-shaped members that are attached with a hinge. A bolted connection opposite the hinge is provided for holding the u-shaped members together in a closed position when securing a pipeline pig. Lifting eyes on the frame are provided for enabling the frame, its pig supports and any contained pipeline pigs to be lifted as a unit. A basket receptacle optionally is provided that receives the frame. The frame and basket receptacle are each independently liftable. The basket receptacle prevents spillage of hazardous materials that might be residing upon the pigs after they have been used to clean a particular pipeline. | 01-10-2013 |
| 20130017055 | APPARATUS CONFIGURED TO MANIPULATE A TARPAULINAANM Vieira; Michael C.AACI Fall RiverAAST MAAACO USAAGP Vieira; Michael C. Fall River MA USAANM Adamson; JamesAACI NorwellAAST MAAACO USAAGP Adamson; James Norwell MA US - Disclosed herein are embodiments of an apparatus for use in securing or transporting a tarpaulin or other sheet of material. The apparatus may include a body, a securing device configured to secure the apparatus to the ground, a connecting member mechanically coupling the securing device to the body, a handle mechanically coupled to the body, and a joining device configured to removably join the apparatus to an object. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130017056 | Cap-Linked Test Strip Carrier for Vial Augmentation - The present disclosure provides test strip carriers for insertion into test strip vials and methods of making the same. Also provided are test strip vials including test strip carriers, and systems including test strip vials, test strip carriers and analytical test strips. The test strip carriers of the present disclosure are capable of engaging with the caps of test strip vials and thereby facilitating the retrieval of one or more test strips from the test strip vials upon opening of the test strip vials. | 01-17-2013 |
| 20130022439 | HOISTING AND LOWERING DEVICE - The present disclosure provides a device, system and method for hoisting and lowering a load, comprising a device having a front plate that may be displaced to reveal a sheave, and a friction accessory. The friction accessory is arranged to create friction between a rope and the device when a load is suspended from the device using the rope and where the device is secured to a support structure. The system may be prepared by an operator, having ascended to an elevated location, and further allows the operator to lower the load from the elevated location prior to descending. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130022440 | HITCH-MOUNTABLE BICYCLE CARRIER - A bicycle rack for carrying bicycles behind a vehicle includes a tongue configured for connection to a vehicle hitch. A base portion includes wheel trays for supporting the wheels of a bicycle in cooperation with a slidable hook for contacting the top tube of a bicycle. | 01-24-2013 |
| 20130028699 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SUPPORTING A SHAFT INSIDE A TURBINE - A system for supporting a shaft inside a turbine includes a support member having load and counterweight portions. A fulcrum is between the load and counterweight portions, and the load portion is configured to fit inside the turbine. Nests are connected to the support member between the load and counterweight portions, and the nests are configured to rigidly connect the shaft to the support member. A counterweight is connected to move along the support member only on the counterweight portion of the support member. A method for supporting a shaft inside a turbine includes inserting a support member inside the turbine and connecting the shaft to the support member. The method further includes connecting a crane to a fulcrum on the support member, lifting the support member and shaft with the crane, and moving a counterweight on the support member to change a horizontal angle of the support member. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130028700 | ROBOT DRIVE WITH MAGNETIC SPINDLE BEARINGS - A drive section for a substrate transport arm including a frame, at least one stator mounted within the frame, the stator including a first motor section and at least one stator bearing section and a coaxial spindle magnetically supported substantially without contact by the at least one stator bearing section, where each drive shaft of the coaxial spindle includes a rotor, the rotor including a second motor section and at least one rotor bearing section configured to interface with the at least one stator bearing section, wherein the first motor section is configured to interface with the second motor section to effect rotation of the spindle about a predetermined axis and the at least one stator bearing section is configured to effect at least leveling of a substrate transport arm end effector connected to the coaxial spindle through an interaction with the at least one rotor bearing section. | 01-31-2013 |
| 20130045074 | Loading Devices and Methods Of Loading Pipe Fusion Machines - A loading device for lifting an elongated object having an elongate axis includes a frame having a first fulcrum surface and a second fulcrum surface, a first effector arm that pivots about the first fulcrum surface, a second effector arm that pivots about the second fulcrum surface, and an actuator moving the first effector arm and the second effector arm between a retracted position and a deployed position. | 02-21-2013 |
| 20130045075 | FITTING, CRANE HOOK, AND CRANE HOOK ASSEMBLY - A method of lifting an aircraft at a lifting location, the method comprising: securing a fitting to the aircraft when the aircraft is at the lifting location; engaging the fitting with a crane hook; transmitting lifting load from the crane hook to the aircraft via the fitting; and removing the fitting from the aircraft. | 02-21-2013 |
| 20130051969 | TOOL FOR TRANSFERRING MEMBRANOUS TISSUE, KIT AND METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING MEMBRANOUS TISSUE - Disclosed herein is a tool, a kit, and associated method for transferring a membranous tissue composed of cells derived from a living body. The tool can include a first sheet-like supporting member disposed on one side of the membranous tissue in a wet state, and a second sheet-like supporting member disposed on the other side of the membranous tissue in a wet state. The first supporting member and the second supporting member can be configured to entirely hold the membranous tissue, such that a frictional force between the first supporting member and the membranous tissue is larger than a frictional force between the second supporting member and the membranous tissue. | 02-28-2013 |
| 20130058754 | LIFTING UNIT FOR LIFTING A ROTOR OF A WIND ENERGY INSTALLATION - There is provided a lifting unit for lifting a rotor of a wind power installation. The lifting unit has at least one first sling for looping around a region of a rotor blade on a rotor of the wind power installation, which region is near the rotor blade root, at least one transverse strut, at least one first and second strut or sling portion, and at least one first and second hinge unit. The at least one first and second struts or sling portions extend between the at least one first and second hinge units and the transverse strut. The lifting unit further has at least one second sling having first and second sling portions and a strut. The first ends of the first and second sling portions are fixed to the first and second hinge units. The second sling is adapted to be arranged around a rotor blade stub. | 03-07-2013 |
| 20130064637 | METHOD FOR TRANSPORTING A SUBSTRATE WITH A SUBSTRATE SUPPORT - A method of transporting a substrate with a substrate support, the method includes defining a frictional breakaway force between the substrate and the substrate support in a horizontal plane, moving the substrate in the horizontal plane along a horizontal trajectory, moving the substrate in a vertical direction along a vertical trajectory simultaneously while moving the substrate in the horizontal plane, and wherein the horizontal trajectory is determined based on the acceleration profile of the vertical trajectory and wherein the horizontal trajectory prevents the moving of the substrate from overcoming the coefficient of friction in the horizontal plane. | 03-14-2013 |
| 20130071223 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DEPOSITING A METAL COIL - The invention relates to a method and a device for depositing a metal coil ( | 03-21-2013 |
| 20130078075 | System and Method of Ventilated Transport - A system for the transport of goods includes a ceiling, a floor, opposed side walls, and a front wall, defining a container with an open interior. At least one fan is at most coplanar with the front wall and extends away from the front wall exterior the container. The at least one fan is oriented to direct a flow of air out of the container through the front wall. A plurality of vents are spaced along each of the opposed side walls. Operation of the at least one fan draws air into the container through the plurality of vents. A method of transporting green pallets includes providing an enclosed container. Stacks of green pallets are provided within the enclosed container. At least one fan is operated to draw a flow of air out of the interior of the enclosed container to dry the stacks of green pallets. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130078076 | METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING SUBSTRATE MODULES, AND MAGNETIC SHEET APPLIED IN THE METHOD - A method transfers substrate modules that are formed by cutting a substrate sheet in a cutting machine. The method rapidly and efficiently transfers the substrate modules from the cutting machine to facilitate the transfer of the substrate modules for subsequent processes, thereby reducing operational time and complexity, reducing machine idle time, and increasing operational efficiency, to avoid requiring additional equipment for operation and thus increasing yield as a result. | 03-28-2013 |
| 20130084158 | LIFTING SYSTEM - A lifting system suitable for garages for storing objects above a vehicle comprises a frame having a central opening. The frame is formed of two side bars and two end bars, each side bar being adjustably attached to the end bar for adjusting the size of the central opening. A first pair of swing arms is pivotably attached to the first side bar and a second pair of swing arms is pivotably attached to the second side bar. There is a pivot connection for each swing arm for pivotably connecting each swing arm to a supporting structure above the frame. A hoist system activated by a switch is used for raising and lowering the frame. | 04-04-2013 |
| 20130089402 | REEL LIFTING DEVICE AND METHOD | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130089403 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR HOLDING A PLURALITY OF SUBSTRATES FOR PROCESSING - A substrate carrier includes a carrier plate, a cover plate and a plurality of substrate support slots. The carrier plate has recesses for receiving substrates. A sidewall of each recess includes protrusions for engaging the OD of a substrate. The cover plate is rotatable-and has a cam on an undersurface. The cam is enagageable with a lateral slot in each of a plurality of substrate supports of the carrier plate. Rotating the cover plate causes the cam to move the substrate supports, one by one, so a substrate engaging end of the substrate support moves away from an associated substrate recess. A substrate is loaded into the recess, whereupon the cover plate is rotated further so the cam disengages from the lateral slot. The substrate supports are biased to engage the OD of the substrate to lock the substrate within the recess. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130089404 | SCALABLE INTEGRATED HIGH DENSITY OPTICAL DATA/MEDIA STORAGE DELIVERY SYSTEM - An apparatus and system for recording, playing, handling, and storing a plurality of media disks in a plurality of configurations and a device for moving any disk into and out of a media disk storage mechanism and into or out of a selected media player/recorder on demand, and a controller for directing operation of the device for moving the disks and controlling selection of operation of the media disk storage mechanism. | 04-11-2013 |
| 20130094935 | Merchandising Grapple - A merchandising grapple is disclosed for removing retail items such as beverage cans, bottles, boxes, and the like from shipping containers in groups and placing them in groups on display shelves within a retail establishment. The grapple has spaced features that receive and hold the items in groups of several items and may have a handle for gripping the grapple and a slip joint for adjusting a width of the grapple. A method includes stocking display shelves by removing items in groups from shipping containers and placing them in groups on display shelves. | 04-18-2013 |
| 20130101381 | WEIGHT RELIEF TRANSPORTATION APPARATUS FOR CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT - A transportation system for transporting construction equipment that rides on a driven element during ordinary operation. The transportation system relieves a portion or all of the operational weight of the construction equipment from the driven element during transportation of the construction equipment. The transportation system includes a frame, upwardly extending supports that support a chassis of the construction equipment, and a lifting device interface for loading and unloading the transportation system with respect to a vehicle or trailer for transporting the construction equipment. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130101382 | PROCESSING MACHINE SYSTEM AND METHOD OF POSITIONING PROCESSING MACHINES - At least three processing machines are positioned on a supporting structure including a plurality of beams spaced apart from each other. The at least three processing machines include a first processing machine, a second processing machine supported by at least one of beams which support the first processing machine, and a third processing machine supported by beams different from all the beams which support the first processing machine. A distance between the first processing machine and the second processing machine, at which an amount of vibration transferred from the first processing machine to the second processing machine becomes smaller than a predetermined amount, is determined, thereby positioning the first processing machine and the second processing machine with a distance not less than the determined distance. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130101383 | PORTABLE NON-MOTORIZED AUTOMATIC LIFT AND TRANSPORT APPARATUS FOR SMALL VEHICLES - A portable, non-motorized automatic lift and transport apparatus allows users to lift and transport a small, powered vehicle with minimal physical exertion and without the need for secondary power source. The apparatus is comprised of a base and platform connected to a gear housing. The gear housing telescopically engages and moves vertically within a vehicle mount via a gear system. The drive wheels of the small, powered vehicle to be transported power the gear system attached to the gear housing to rotate the gear system and subsequently lift the to-be-transported vehicle using its own power source. A storage position is provided that can be used without disengaging a transmission. An alternate embodiment incorporates a worm gear and chain drive. | 04-25-2013 |
| 20130108409 | THIN SUBSTRATE, MASS-TRANSFER BERNOULLI END-EFFECTOR | 05-02-2013 |
| 20130121800 | PALLET-DOLLY - A pallet-dolly device convertible between a pallet and a dolly has a deck to which a set of dolly wheels are attached at a fixed height below the deck. A set of movable pallet skids are mechanically interlinked with the deck by a bistable skid displacement mechanism which assumes a first state biasing the pallet skids upwards towards a skid raised position and a second state in which the bistable skid displacement mechanism biases the pallet skids downwards towards a skid lowered position. Also described are embodiments allowing conversion from dolly to pallet by directly pressing downwards on a skid, and provision of a braked-dolly state through downward pressure of the skid against the ground and/or a skid-actuated wheel brake. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130121801 | System for repositioning a coiled tubing tensioner - A system for positioning a trailer mounted coiled tubing tensioner either in a first stowed position on the deck of a transport trailer or in a second position resting on an elevated rig floor of a drilling rig is described. The system for selectably elevating a coiled tubing tensioner from its first stowed position to its second position on the rig floor of a drilling rig includes the cooperative operation of the coiled tubing tensioner and its frame, multiple pivotable swing arms attached to the trailer at one end and the tensioner frame at the other end, an elevatable mast, a crown block, a drawworks winch, a top drive, a pair of tensioner lifting winches and multiple lifting lines deployed from the mast and reeved through sheaves mounted on the tensioner frame and the top drive. | 05-16-2013 |
| 20130129464 | ZONED ACTIVATION MANUFACTURING VACUUM TOOL - Aspects relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for a zoned vacuum tool comprised of independently operable vacuum sources provided a vacuum force to segregated zones. A vacuum force is generated in connection with a first zone independently of an activation or deactivation of vacuum force generation associated with a second zone. Therefore, a single vacuum tool can selectively apply a vacuum force to material portions, which allows for control as to which material portions are manipulated by the vacuum tool. | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130129465 | ELECTROCONDUCTIVE LAYER-TRANSFERRING MATERIAL AND TOUCH PANEL - An electroconductive layer-transferring material including: a base material; a cushion layer on the base material; and an electroconductive layer on the cushion layer, the electroconductive layer containing metal nanowires having an average minor axis length of 100 nm or less and an average major axis length of 2 μm or more, wherein the electroconductive layer-transferring material satisfies A/B=0.1 to 0.7, where A is a total thickness of an average thickness of the electroconductive layer and an average thickness of the cushion layer, and B is an average thickness of the base material, wherein the average thickness of the electroconductive layer is 0.01 μm to 0.2 μm, and wherein the average thickness of the cushion layer is 1 μm to 50 μm. | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130129466 | SINGLE JOINT ELEVATOR HAVING DEPLOYABLE JAWS - The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for lifting a single joint of pipe. The single joint elevator of the present invention comprises, in one embodiment, a pair of deployable jaws cooperating with a pair of static jaws to secure a pipe within the slot of a generally horseshoe-shaped body. The deployable jaws of the single joint elevator of the present invention may be rotatably deployable or translatably employable, or both. In one embodiment, each jaw, including the static jaws and the deployable jaws, comprises a pipe slip movably disposed within the jaw to secure a pipe segment within the slot and to self-tighten as the weight of the pipe segment secured within the single joint elevator is transferred to the slips and the jaws. | 05-23-2013 |
| 20130136573 | PALLET FOR BAGS - A pallet moulded from plastics material for supporting a flexible intermediate bulk container. It has a generally planar central panel portion, a pair of parallel inverted open channels extending across the pallet to form a respective pair of open-ended tunnels each tunnel having an upper wall and two side walls, and a pair of edge panel portions generally co-planar with the central panel. An array of raised elongate hump portions bulges upwards from the upper walls of the tunnels, each hump portion extending laterally across an upper wall. The two ends of the hump portions abut respective buttresses which extend up the side walls. | 05-30-2013 |
| 20130142612 | WHEEL-LESS PORTABLE SECURITY SYSTEM AND DEPLOYMENT THEREOF - Methods and apparatus for easy and efficient loading, transporting, unloading, and deployment of one or more mobile security systems are provided, as well as the security systems themselves. For some embodiments, the security systems may have rails that may be engaged with the forks of a forklift, such that the systems may be easily and quickly loaded on or unloaded from a vehicle for transportation of multiple systems. The vehicle may also be fitted with one or more docking devices, such that the security systems may be inserted into the docking devices and quickly secured in place without straps or chains. In this manner, multiple systems may be easily and efficiently delivered to and/or picked up from one or more sites when compared to conventional one-system-at-a-time deployment methods. | 06-06-2013 |
| 20130156537 | CARRIER AND SUBSTRATE UNLOADING METHOD USING THE SAME - A carrier and a substrate unloading method using the same are provided. The carrier comprises a bottom board, a rim and a stop board. The bottom board is for carrying a substrate. The rim is disposed on a periphery of the bottom board. The rim has at least one opening. The stop board is disposed on the rim. One end of the stop board is pivotally connected to the rim, and the other end of the stop board is rotated to the outside or the inside of the rim. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130156538 | ROTATION DEVICE FOR LOAD TRANSPORTING APPARATUS - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a load transporting apparatus that is capable of being steered while transporting a load across a base surface. In particular, the load transporting apparatus includes a roller track configured to support movement of a roller assembly, and a support foot that is connected to the roller track with a pin connector. During load transport, the support foot can be maintained in a substantially similar position relative to a frame structure supporting the load even when the transport movement is not in a parallel direction to the orientation of the support foot. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130156539 | ALIGNMENT RESTORATION DEVICE FOR LOAD TRANSPORTING APPARATUS - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a load transporting apparatus that automatically aligns a support foot of the apparatus with a load-bearing frame connected to the load transporting apparatus during a recovery phase of an incremental walking movement. In particular, the load transporting apparatus includes a linking device attached to a support foot of the apparatus and a biasing device connected to the linking device that is deflected during non-linear load transporting movements, where the biasing device acts to automatically return the support foot to an aligned position relative to the load-bearing frame after a non-linear movement has been completed and the support foot is raised above a ground surface. | 06-20-2013 |
| 20130170938 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ASSISTING THE RETRIEVAL OF IDENTIFICATION OR CREDIT CARDS FROM A WALLET - An apparatus and method for locating and removing a card such as an identification, membership, or banking card from a wallet, purse, or other card holding device. The apparatus includes a flat thin member with a gripping terminus at a first distal end and a coupling implement at a second distal end. The coupling implement is capable of coupling with a card. When coupled to a card that is inserted into the pocket or sleeve of a card holding device the gripping terminus is visible beyond the edge of the card and serves as both a visible indicant of the location of the particular card and an ergonomic and convenient point to grasp and pull to extract the card from the pocket or sleeve. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130170939 | DOUBLE DRUM TRACTION WINCH - The invention relates to a double drum traction winch supporting a fist and second rotatable drum. The circumferential surface of each drum is provided with circumferential grooves perpendicular to the rotational axis of the drum. The grooves of each drum are subdivided in a first set of grooves for guiding a first wire and a second set of grooves for guiding a second wire. The grooves of the first set alternate with grooves of the second set such that the circumferential surface of each drum is provided with multiple grooves of the first group, each interpositioned between two grooves of the second group. Therefore the traction winch is capable of cooperating with a first wire in the first set of grooves or with a second wire in the second set of grooves, wherein both wires differ in type of material and/or cross section and/or maximum tensile strength. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130170940 | TREE ROPER DEVICE AND METHOD - The present disclosure to a tree roper device for placement of a line about a designated portion of a tree. The tree roper device includes an elongated pole assembly having a first end and a second end. At least one pole bracket is configured to attach to the tree and operably connected to the elongated pole assembly such that the elongated pole assembly is movable relative to the tree. A rest bar is attached to the elongated pole assembly adjacent the second end thereof and a line having a line length with a first, proximal end and a second, distal end is operably attached to a weight. The line is selectively supported on the rest bar such that movement of the elongated pole assembly positions the line and the weight in a predetermined position relative to the tree. | 07-04-2013 |
| 20130183133 | CABLE GUIDING IN A WIND TURBINE TOWER - A cable guiding system is disclosed for a cable. The cable guiding system defines a passageway for the cable and comprises an arresting assembly which in operation provides a resistance in a first direction to a movement of the cable inside the passageway while allowing for a movement of the cable in a second (opposite) direction. It further comprises an interface for fixing the cable guiding system to a tower of a wind turbine. Disclosed is a method for lifting a cable upwards in a wind turbine tower assembly. | 07-18-2013 |
| 20130189067 | TRANSPORTING HEAVY EQUIPMENT - An apparatus is provided and includes a support structure defining recesses for receiving lifting forks and a guide slot having first and second support sections and a platform having a deck configured to stably carry a load and a ramp configured to facilitate removal of the load from the deck. The platform includes a boss, which is movable within the guide slot such that the boss registers with the first support section whereby the platform is supportively disposable in a lowered position and the second support section whereby the platform is supportively disposable in a raised position. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130189068 | ANCILLARY APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR LOADING GLASS SUBSTRATES INTO A BRACKET - An ancillary apparatus for loading glass substrates into a bracket through a robotic arm includes a holding rack to hold a bracket, a guiding mechanism located above the bracket and a glass lifting mechanism located below the bracket. The robotic arm grips the glass substrate and moves the glass substrate above the bracket to be guided by the guiding mechanism and held by the glass lifting mechanism, and then the glass substrate is released from the robotic arm. The glass substrate is guided by the guiding mechanism and braced by the glass lifting mechanism, and then is lowered slowly into the bracket. Hence the robotic arm does not need to be entered the bracket to load the glass substrate, extra space to receive the robotic arm can be saved and thus more glass substrates can be loaded. The cost is reduced and productivity is improved to meet production requirements. | 07-25-2013 |
| 20130216350 | MAGNETIC RETRIEVAL SYSTEM FOR A GOLF CLUB - A magnetic retrieval device includes a magnet and a helical thread fixed relative to the magnet. The helical thread is screwed onto a proximal end of a grip of a golf club. The golf club can be used by a golfer to retrieve a laying golf club already on a playing surface without the need for the golfer to bend over or bend down. The helical thread may include a pointed distal end and a cutting slot or a drill distal end. A body may surround the magnet, where the body includes a base and a top. The top may include an elastomeric material such as rubber. A metallic ball marker may be magnetically attached to the body. | 08-22-2013 |
| 20130223970 | Animal Waste Collection Apparatus and Method of Use - An animal waste collection apparatus includes a housing having side and end walls defining an open top, bottom, and interior area. A bottom panel is pivotally coupled to a lower edge of one of the side walls and movable between an open configuration not covering the open bottom and a closed configuration covering the open bottom. A collection member includes a mounting portion completely covering the housing open top and a collection portion extending downwardly into the interior area, the collection portion being movable between a retracted configuration inside the interior area and an extended configuration outside the interior area through the open bottom for use to collect animal waste. The bottom panel is operatively coupled to the collection portion inside the interior area such that the bottom panel is moved to the closed configuration automatically when the collection portion resiliently moves from the extended configuration to the retracted configuration. | 08-29-2013 |
| 20130230378 | WINCH APPARATUS - A tensioning device for a winch assembly includes a pair of wheels operatively connected to a winch assembly and is configured to grippingly receive a cable extending therebetween from a rotatably movable drum configured to extend/retract the cable with respect to the winch assembly. The pair of wheels continuously maintains a predetermined tension to the cable extending between the pair of wheels and the drum during operation of the winch assembly. | 09-05-2013 |
| 20130236285 | Apparatus for Handling Layers of Goods - Apparatus, for mounting on a forklift truck, for handling layers of goods; in particular for moving layers of goods from and onto pallets. The apparatus comprises a suction box, connectable to a vacuum source, and a fixture for mounting the apparatus to a forklift truck. The suction box comprises a suction surface for placement against an upper surface of the layer of goods and a skirt having a generally rectangular horizontal section and four vertically disposed, laterally displaceable faces, for movement against the sides of the layer of goods. The apparatus further comprises one or more clamps for positioning the skirt against the layer and at least one valve for controlling the application of the vacuum to the layer. | 09-12-2013 |
| 20130243559 | WINDMILL CONVEYANCE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING SAME - A conveyance system and method for delivering at least one component of a windmill to a location is provided. The system is provided with a transporter and a transfer system. The transporter is positionable adjacent a base at the location. The transfer system is provided with a plurality of rails, a support and at least one slider. The rails are positionable on the base and the transporter. The support has a first portion of the rails of the transporter thereon. The support is positionable along a second portion of the rails on a surface of the transporter, and slidably movable between a retracted and an extended position whereby the support is selectively positionable adjacent the base. The slider carries the component(s) of the windmill. The slider is slidably movable along the rails of the transporter and the base whereby the component(s) is/are slidably transferrable between the transporter and the base. | 09-19-2013 |
| 20130251496 | POWER ASSIST DEVICE, METHOD OF CONTROLLING POWER ASSIST DEVICE, AND PROGRAM OF POWER ASSIST DEVICE - A power assist device includes: holder holding a workpiece; a pair of wires each having one end connected to the holder to suspend the holder; a pair of wind-up wheels winding up respective other ends of the wires; a pair of motors rotationally driving the respective wind-up wheels; a pair of rotation detectors detecting rotation information of the respective motors; a pair of torque detectors detecting drive torque in the respective motors; and controller controlling drive of the motors. The controller calculates operating force to the workpiece based on the rotation information detected by the rotation detectors and the drive torque of the motors detected by the torque detectors, and controls the motors to assist the operating force that is calculated, to move up and down the holder. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130251497 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ENGAGING AND HANDLING ARTICLES OF MANUFACTURE - Apparatus and method for engaging an article. The apparatus has a base portion, an end portion disposed adjacent the base portion. The end portion is moveable in relation to the base portion generally along the longitudinal centerline. One or more bands are joined to and extend between the base portion and the end portion. At least one of the bands bends away from the longitudinal centerline when the end portion is moved toward the base portion from the disengaged configuration to the activated configuration. | 09-26-2013 |
| 20130259632 | WORKPIECE TAKING-OUT METHOD USING ROBOT INCLUDING HOLDING NAILS - Before chuck | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130259633 | METHOD FOR REPLACING A TRANSFORMER IN A WIND ENERGY INSTALLATION - There is provided a method of replacing a generator of a wind power installation. In that case the generator is provided in the interior of a pylon of a wind power installation and the pylon has a door opening. An exchanging cross beam is fixed by way of a first fastening point to a crane hook of a mobile crane. A first end of the cross beam is introduced with a second fastening point through the door opening into the pylon. The transformer to be replaced is fixed to the second fastening point of the first end. A compensating weight is fixed at the second fastening point to the second end of the cross beam. The second end of the cross beam is tilted or inclined until the transformer is at the height of the door opening and the crane hook is moved until the transformer to be replaced is outside the door opening. | 10-03-2013 |
| 20130266415 | Vehicle Supporting Device - A vehicle supporting device ( | 10-10-2013 |
| 20130272836 | Pipeline Pig Storage Rack Apparatus - A pipeline pig support rack apparatus includes a frame having a plurality of supports mounted thereon, each extending upwardly from the frame. Each pipeline pig support includes clamps that are comprised of first and second u-shaped members that are attached with a hinge. A bolted connection opposite the hinge is provided for holding the u-shaped members together in a closed position when securing a pipeline pig. Lifting eyes on the frame are provided for enabling the frame, its pig supports and any contained pipeline pigs to be lifted as a unit. A basket receptacle optionally is provided that receives the frame. The frame and basket receptacle are each independently liftable. The basket receptacle prevents spillage of hazardous materials that might be residing upon the pigs after they have been used to clean a particular pipeline. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130272837 | SEMICONDUCTOR DIE PICK-UP APPARATUS AND METHOD OF PICKING UP SEMICONDUCTOR DIE USING THE SAME - Provided is a semiconductor die pick-up apparatus including a stage, a suction opening, a cover that opens and closes a suction opening, and projections and primary holes arranged at a circumferential edge of the suction opening and project from a contact surface. When picking up a semiconductor die, in a state in which at least a portion of a contour of the semiconductor die sticks out from the projections toward the outer circumference of the stage, a retaining sheet at the portion sticking out from the primary holes is suctioned, a tip end of the cover is caused to advance upward, the cover is caused to slide while pushing the retaining sheet and the semiconductor die upward to open the suction opening sequentially, the opened suction opening is caused to suction the retaining sheet sequentially to separate the retaining sheet from the semiconductor die. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130272838 | ENABLING RELIABLE COMMUNICATION BETWEEN AN ACCESSOR AND A TAPE LIBRARY - A method is disclosed in one embodiment of the invention as including physically transporting tape cartridges in a tape library using an accessor. The method further enables communication between the accessor and the tape library using a flexible cable assembly. The flexible cable assembly includes a flexible channel and multiple twisted wire pairs loosely routed through the flexible channel. The multiple twisted wire pairs independently and substantially freely move within the flexible channel. | 10-17-2013 |
| 20130280025 | VEHICLE RECOVERY ASSEMBLY - The invention disclosed herein relates to a vehicle recovery assembly ( | 10-24-2013 |
| 20130287540 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ENGAGING AND HANDLING ARTICLES OF MANUFACTURE - Apparatus and method for engaging an article. The apparatus has a longitudinal centerline, a disengaged configuration and an activated configuration. The apparatus further includes a base portion, first and second engaging arm portions joined to the base portion, first and second moveable portion operatively associated with the first and second engaging arm portions, respectively, and one or more engaging arm bands extending between the first and second moveable portions and the first and second arm portions, wherein at least one of the arm bands bends away from the longitudinal centerline of the engaging arm when the apparatus is changed from the disengaged configuration to the activated configuration. | 10-31-2013 |
| 20130294880 | Trailer and Method for Firewood Distribution - A firewood trailer features a roof-covered storage compartment dimensioned to accommodate a predetermined volume of cut firewood. At least one wall section of the compartment has a substantially full height access opening that is openable and closeable to access the compartment's interior, and arrays of airflow openings are provided in opposing wall sections of the compartment. Between the roof and the airflow openings, the firewood is allowed to dry out inside the trailer and subsequently kept dry by the roof protection. The same trailer can thus be used both to transport the cut firewood and then store the firewood at its destination, thereby avoiding the conventional need for a full unloading of the trailer upon reaching the firewood's destination. A fleet of trailers are used for a firewood distribution service in which a trailer left onsite for a customer, once emptied, is replaced with a newly delivered wood-filled trailer. | 11-07-2013 |
| 20130302129 | END EFFECTOR FOR A ROBOTIC ARM - An end effector for a robotic arm is disclosed. The end effector includes a grasping apparatus having a gripping member and an appendage extending from the gripping member forming a channel between the griping member and the appendage. The channel is configured to receive at least a portion of an article, such as a latch for a container, to be manipulated by the end effector. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130302130 | CARTON WITH HANDLE - A carton for containing a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around an interior of the carton. A handle extends in at least one panel of the plurality of panels. The handle can comprise a handle grip and at least one handle opening. The at least one handle opening can comprise a main portion extending adjacent the handle grip of the handle and an expanded portion that is for being generally aligned with a respective space at least partially defined by at least two adjacent articles of the plurality of articles. The expanded portion can allow access to the respective space via the at least one handle opening. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130302131 | PORTABLE PILLAR-MOUNTABLE HOIST - A portable hoist apparatus that can be quickly, easily and recurrently mounted on a tree or other pillar-like structure, which causes very little or no damage to the pillar-like structure, includes a hoist member having a base, a boom projecting from the base, and a support flange; and an adjustably tensionable strap for engaging the support flange and attaching the hoist member to the pillar-like structure. The portable hoist apparatus may be used by hunters to easily lift a tree stand to a desired position on a tree, or by utility workers to easily raise tools or other heavy or awkward objects up along a utility pole. | 11-14-2013 |
| 20130309059 | Method for Using a Hanger System - A hanger system with hooks attached to and suspended from a hanging or stationary frame, and from one to a multiplicity of rods capable of holding garments or other items, which rest in the hooks, The hooks are designed to allow the rods to rest in vertical relation to one another within the hooks although, depending on the hanging orientation of the hanger system, the rods may hang adjacent to or diagonal from one another, The frame may be hung from a closet rod or similar support, or may be attached to a surface such as a wall or a shelf, either directly or with spacers between the frame and the surface. | 11-21-2013 |
| 20130315700 | LIFTING ASSEMBLY - A lifting assembly includes a link member defining a pivot axis and a latch axis. The lifting assembly also includes a latch pin and a jaw member. The jaw member is pivotally coupled to the link member about the pivot axis and selectively fixedly coupled to the link member about the latch axis by the latch pin. The jaw member defines a cam surface. Engaging the cam surface with a load rotates a portion of the jaw member into alignment with the latch axis, such that the latch pin may be received by the jaw member and the link member. | 11-28-2013 |
| 20130323003 | Quick Change Cylinder Bracket - A quick release gas sample cylinder clamp with pivoting jaws for single handed unlatching of a securely mounted sample gas cylinder upon engagement and disengagement of the battalion latch. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130323004 | DUMP TARP - An improved tarp specifically configured and adapted for transporting cargo in a truck bed, and unloading cargo from the truck bed at a desired location. The tarp includes several foldable flaps or panels which may be used to secure the cargo within the tarp. The tarp may include several loops which may be used for pulling the tarp out of the truck bed and unloading the cargo from the tarp. Also, the tarp may have several strengthening strips which pull the cargo out of the truck bed. | 12-05-2013 |
| 20130330163 | System and Method for Increased filling of Plastic Gusseted T-Shirt Bags - A bag rack and packing system for a plastic grocery bag having a pair of handles has a base to which is connected (1) a three-sided rack having a reservoir bag holder for plastic bags and two arms and (2) a three-sided support having two side supports and an intermediate back support, with each of the side supports having a forward upper tab close to the three-sided rack, an intermediate top and then a rearward edge. The three-sided rack and three-sided support have open faces that face each other so that the three-sided support temporarily creates a defined physical frame for a first plastic grocery bag when its handles are secured over the forward upper tabs of the two side supports. The forward upper tabs help separate an individual bag from a reservoir of bags and the individual bag may remain attached to, or be detached from, the reservoir of bags as it is being filled. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20130330164 | IV Pole Transportation Device and Method - The present invention is directed to an IV pole transportation device that enables a user to securely engage multiple IV poles into an integrated unit, allowing the IV poles to be transported simultaneously. The IV pole transportation device comprises a base plate having a plurality of slots and a plurality of ratchet assemblies. The ratchet assemblies are secured to the base plate and positioned such that the each ratchet assembly slot is aligned with a base plate slot. | 12-12-2013 |
| 20130330165 | ACCOMMODATING DEVICE FOR RETAINING WAFERS - A receiving means for receiving and mounting of wafers, comprised of:
| 12-12-2013 |
| 20130336754 | Stowage Of Cargo For Transportation - A method for stowage of cargo items ( | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130336755 | GRIPPER APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CONTAINERS OF DIFFERENT SIZES - A gripper apparatus for removing and replacing objects such as containers or vials in an array of containers has a gripper head which extends downward from a support arm, a planetary gear assembly mounted in the gripper head including at least three planet gears, and at least one gripping grip extending downward from each planet gear and projecting beyond a lower end of the gripper head. A drive motor drives the planetary gear assembly to rotate the planet gears in opposite directions, moving the grips inward and outward along predetermined paths to grip and carry an object and release the object when in a desired location. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130336756 | LIFTING APPARATUS AND METHOD - There is provided an assembly for hoisting and transporting objects having support receptacles affixed to its outer surface and for moving a tank section into a desired close alignment in a predetermined location. The assembly includes a mounting bracket configured to mechanically engage with a lifting end of a crane and a lifting plate pivotally coupled to the mounting bracket. The lifting plate can have opposed non-parallel sides that are angled to engage the support receptacle during lifting of the tank section and during transportation of the tank section. When the crane moves the tank section to its desired location, the crane operator may pivot the assembly to facilitate aligning the object. Upon completion of alignment, the object is put down, and the lifting plates disengage from the support receptacles by sliding out of the slots of the support receptacles. | 12-19-2013 |
| 20130343858 | Method of deploying a mobile rig system - A method for deploying a mobile rig system to a well site. A control van is transported to the well site for controlling drilling operations. A rig carrier is utilized to transport the mast assembly and position the mast adjacent a wellhead. The mast assembly is raised to an upright position and is remotely operable from the control van. A skid mounted pipe moving member is transported to the well site and positioned on an opposite end of the wellhead from the mast assembly. The pipe moving member is remotely operable from the control van. The skid is interconnected to the rig carrier for maintaining a fixed distance between the mast assembly and the pipe moving member. A carrier support member is fastened at the interconnection point and extended outwards to stabilize the mast assembly. Hydraulic actuators are utilized to level the mast assembly with a ground surface. In one embodiment, a pipe tub stores pipe and a pipe tub transfer system is operable for moving pipe from the pipe tub to the pipe moving member and for moving pipe from the pipe moving member to the pipe tub. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20130343859 | METHOD, TRAY AND APPARATUS FOR HANDLING SYRINGES - A tray is provided for receiving a plurality of pre-filled syringes each having a tubular body defining an outer surface and a chamber having an open first end sealed with a plug and an open opposite second end configured to establish fluid communication with a hypodermic needle, wherein a flange extends from the tubular body at the first end. The tray includes a plate defining a plurality of through-going ridges and a plurality of through-going grooves parallel to the ridges, wherein the ridges are interconnected with the grooves. A multitude of open apertures is defined at the ridges, wherein the apertures are configured for (a) receiving the flange of a syringe received between two adjacent ridges, and (b) permitting the passage of a gas through the plate to contact the outer surface of the syringe. | 12-26-2013 |
| 20140010628 | DEVICE FOR HANDLING OBJECTS - The invention relates to a device for handling objects, comprising at least one inflatable air chamber and a retaining unit for objects, which is attached to the air chamber, to a robot or manipulator, characterized by at least one device for handling objects, and to a method for handling objects using the aforementioned device, characterized by the steps of: moving the device with the side thereof comprising the retaining unit to the object to be handled in a first position; establishing an adhesive connection between the retaining unit and the object to be handled, thus retaining the object; moving the device to a desired second position, and releasing the object from the retaining unit by inflating the at least one air chamber. | 01-09-2014 |
| 20140023474 | Modularer Mobilkran - The invention relates to a crane, in particular to a modular mobile crane, with an under carriage, a support, and an upper carriage which comprises an upper carriage frame and a jib which can be separated from the upper carriage, wherein the under carriage comprises at least one connection point. According to the invention, the under carriage can be connected via the at least one connection point alternatively via at least one support-side connection point to the support, and to the upper carriage connected to said support, or via at least one jib-side connection point to the jib separated from the upper carriage. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140023475 | TOOL BIT CASE - A method of retrieving a tool bit from a tool bit case includes supporting the tool bit with a bit retainer of the tool bit case at an oblique angle relative to a bottom surface of the tool bit case so that a drive portion of the tool bit extends generally away from the bottom surface, engaging the drive portion of the tool bit with a driver while the tool bit is supported by the bit retainer, and removing the tool bit from the bit retainer by manipulating the driver. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140023476 | TRANSFER PICK - An apparatus includes a platform positioned on the pallet, the platform having a load bearing surface including a first portion and a second portion. The second portion is movable relative to the first, such that the second portion overlies the first portion. A method of unloading articles from a pallet including arranging the loaded pallet with the second portion of the platform in the second position, unloading articles from the first portion of the platform, shifting the second portion of the platform to the second position, and unloading articles from the second portion of the platform. A method of loading articles on a pallet, including arranging the pallet with the second portion of the platform in the second position, loading articles onto the second portion of the platform, shifting the second portion of the platform to the first position, and loading articles onto the first portion of the platform. | 01-23-2014 |
| 20140037418 | Underwater Magnetic Retrieval Apparatus - An underwater magnetic retrieval apparatus and method utilizing same are provided. The apparatus is specifically constructed for underwater retrieval of a magnetically-attractable object. The apparatus includes at least one housing including at least two spaced attachment portions, a plurality of magnets disposed within the at least one housing and at least one line extending from the two spaced attachment portions of the at least one housing to facilitate underwater manipulation of the apparatus and underwater retrieval of the magnetically-attractable object. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140037419 | PROCESS FOR REACTOR CATALYST LOADING - Methods, devices and processes for effectively loading catalysts into reactor vessels. In particular methods, devices and processes for effectively loading catalysts into fixed bed reactors utilizing inducted vibrational energy to improve catalyst loading performance, thereby resulting in improved flow distribution through the catalyst beds at designed operating conditions. The methods herein are particularly effectively for improving the performance of new or existing catalyst bed configurations of vertically-oriented two-phase hydroprocessing fixed bed reactors. | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140037420 | Laboratory system for handling sample tube racks, an alignment element for sample tube racks and a rack tray receiver assembly - A laboratory system for handling sample tube racks, an alignment element for sample tube racks and a rack tray receiver assembly are disclosed. The laboratory system to handle laboratory sample tube racks comprises a robotic arm ( | 02-06-2014 |
| 20140050555 | METHOD FOR REPLACING A PERMANENT MAGNET OF A WIND TURBINE GENERATOR - A method is provided for replacing a permanent magnet of a generator of a wind turbine from a first position to a second position. A container is provided having a shell and an opening through the shell. The opening defines an open space for storing the permanent magnet. The open space is surrounded by the shell, and the shell having a thickness that provides that the permanent magnet does not come close enough to other magnetic material to exert significant force on it. The method involves placing the permanent magnet from the first position into the container, transporting the container with the permanent magnet to the second position, removing the permanent magnet from the container, and placing the permanent magnet in the second position. | 02-20-2014 |
| 20140086718 | PALLET, METHOD OF MANUFACTURING AND METHOD OF TRANSPORTING OR HANDLING GOODS - A pallet for transportation and handling of goods includes a base and a deck above the base for supporting goods. The pallet includes at least one location element that is provided between the deck and the base arranged to substantially limit lateral motion of the deck relative to the base. At least one isolator is provided between the deck and the base arranged to provide shock and vibration isolation to the deck from the base. In another aspect, the pallet includes at least one isolator between the deck and the base arranged to provide shock and vibration isolation to the deck from the base, the isolator including a resilient hollow shell that is open to the atmosphere in at least one place. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140086719 | BOAT DEPLOYMENT ASSEMBLY AND METHOD - A hoist system and a method for lifting and lowering an object such as a boat include a support structure, a support member supported by the support structure and a hoisting assembly. The hoisting assembly includes an attachment assembly and a set of at least three flexible members operably coupled to the support member and the attachment assembly to retract and extend the attachment assembly vertically relative to a reference axis. The hoisting assembly is supported by the support structure and configured with the support member so as to space apart the flexible members from each other, and wherein each flexible member defines an oblique angle with the reference axis parallel to the vertical reference axis. | 03-27-2014 |
| 20140093347 | METHODS FOR HANDLING TUBULARS USEFUL DURING CLEANING AND INSPECTION OPERATIONS - Methods are disclosed for handling cylindrical tubulars in a process that, in preferred embodiments, also performs cleaning, inspection and other operations on the tubular. The tubular is held stationary while it is rotated. During rotation of the tubular, internal and external cleaning systems, and data acquisition systems, pass up and down the length of the rotating tubular. In preferred embodiments, a first tubular is loaded onto the handling machine, whereupon it is indexed and then rotated. Cleaning, inspection and other operations may be performed during rotation. Once operations are complete, the handling system ejects the first tubular while queuing up a second tubular to be loaded. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140093348 | ENHANCED METHODS FOR HANDLING TUBULARS USEFUL DURING CLEANING AND INSPECTION OPERATIONS - Enhanced methods are disclosed for handling cylindrical tubulars, advantageously in association with cleaning, inspection and other operations on the tubular. The tubular is held stationary while it is rotated. During rotation of the tubular, internal and external cleaning systems, and data acquisition systems, pass up and down the length of the rotating tubular. In preferred embodiments, a first tubular is loaded onto the handling machine, whereupon it is indexed and then rotated. Cleaning, inspection and other operations may be performed during rotation. Once operations are complete, the handling system ejects the first tubular while queuing up a second tubular to be loaded. The handling machine comprises a plurality of user-positional pods. Each pod includes scissor mechanisms, index machines and a roller machine to perform the handling methods. Sensors on drive rollers in the handling machine generate vibrational response data of the tubular while it rotates. | 04-03-2014 |
| 20140105718 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LOWERING LIMBS FROM A TREE - A limb lowering system can hold the weight of large tree limbs while lowering them from a tree. The system does away with tree-mounted devices and wrapping ropes around trees which often leads to knotted ropes as well as the snatching and jerking of ropes. The system includes a rope guide that attaches to a receiver hitch of a vehicle. The rope guide has prongs on it to keep the rope from overlapping, allowing the rope to glide smoothly and keeping the rope from knotting. The system installs quickly and easily by a single pin. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140105719 | CHUTE ARRANGEMENT WITH STRIP-OFF FEATURE - Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for a chute arrangement comprising an element for objects, such as, test tubes, caps, etc. released by a gripper unit such that the released objects may be collected in a container. The element may comprise a plurality of slots for a plurality of gripper fingers in the gripper unit to pass through. The element may be configured to restrain the object as the plurality of gripper fingers release the object. | 04-17-2014 |
| 20140112752 | Product Management Display System - A product management display system for merchandising product on a shelf includes a divider secured to a support structure and a barrier that is moveable by rotation between a folded position and an upright position without a rotation biasing element. A product positioned in the system can contact the barrier when the product moves toward the forward end of the system and rotate the barrier from the folded position to the upright position. The system may include a rotational mounting structure to which the moveable barrier is connected. The rotational mounting structure may be removably connected to the forward end of the divider. The merchandise display system may be used in conjunction with a product tray which provides for product stored in the product tray to be slid from in the product tray into the product pocket of the merchandise display system. | 04-24-2014 |
| 20140133950 | Insertion/Extraction Tool For Components In Housing - An insertion/extraction tool for inserting and extracting components in a housing includes a clamp member that attaches to a component in the housing. A lift member includes a bearing attached to the clamp member. A bridge includes a threaded member attached to the clamp member with a lead screw. The lead screw is threaded through the threaded member in the bridge and terminated at the bearing attached to the clamp member. The lead screw raises and lowers the lift member as it rotates, thereby translating the component relative to the housing. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140133951 | Flexitank Design - A flexitank including a bladder and a series of straps positioned across the top of the bladder. The straps may be directly attached to the side or bottom of the flexitank, or may be encircling straps. | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140133952 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR TRANSPORTING LOADS - A novel transport pallet ( | 05-15-2014 |
| 20140140803 | EFFICIENT MOVEMENT OF STORAGE MEDIA IN A STORAGE MEDIA LIBRARY - A method includes receiving a request for the use of a first storage medium located in a first library unit in a storage medium library. It is determined that the first storage medium is to be moved by a transportation component. In response to determining that the first storage medium is to be moved by the transportation component, it is determined that the transportation component is located at a second library unit. In response to determining that the transportation component is located at the second library unit, it is determined that a second storage medium, which is in the second library unit, can be transported to the first library unit. In response to a determination that the second storage medium can be transported to the first library unit, the second storage medium is transported to the first library unit. | 05-22-2014 |
| 20140161579 | AIRCRAFT TOWBAR WITH RAPID WHEEL DEPLOYMENT AND METHOD FOR EFFICIENTLY MOVING AIRCRAFT THEREWITH - A towbar includes a body and a carriage assembly mounted to the body for movement between a retracted position in which wheels on the carriage assembly are elevated above the ground and a support position in which the wheels support the towbar on the ground, wherein the towbar is configured for rapid deployment of the carriage assembly from the retracted position to the support position. Rapid deployment is provided by a hydraulic actuator and an accumulator that can store fluid pressure, such that controllably discharging the accumulator drives the actuator to move the carriage assembly. A method is disclosed using the towbar to move an aircraft such that the accumulator is charged with pressure before the towbar is decoupled from nose gear. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140161580 | FORKLIFT SHIPPING AND HANDLING APPARATUS - A shipping and handling system for a fork lift truck that has a cab and rails extending vertically above the cab. A first bracket is secured to the back of the rails and a second bracket is secured to the back of the cab. One bracket is provided with wheel while the other is provided with legs so that the truck is able to rest on the brackets when it is tipped over upon its back. A special adaptor is provided that allows a second fork lift truck to hitch onto the unwheeled bracket and lift the bracket off the support surface whereupon the first truck can be easily maneuvered from place to place. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140161581 | ROTATION DEVICE FOR LOAD TRANSPORTING APPARATUS - Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a load transporting apparatus that is capable of being steered while transporting a load across a base surface. In particular, the load transporting apparatus includes a roller track configured to support movement of a roller assembly, and a support foot that is connected to the roller track with a pin connector. During load transport, the support foot can be maintained in a substantially similar position relative to a frame structure supporting the load even when the transport movement is not in a parallel direction to the orientation of the support foot. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140161582 | GRIPPING ELEMENT FOR MANIPULATORS - A gripping element is provided for industrial manipulators adapted for gripping items at high temperatures, in particular composite and nylon laminates. The gripping element includes a first portion coupling to a manipulator and a second elastically deformable portion intended to interact directly with the item to be manipulated. The second portion includes a substantially flat base and a perimetrical edge which extends around the base. An air intake duct opens at the base to activate the gripping element by depression. At rest, in a first not-deformed configuration, the lying plane of the perimetrical edge and the lying plane of the base are parallel and separated. In use, in a second deformed configuration, the lying plane of the perimetrical edge and the lying plane of the base are coincident are in abutment on the caught item. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140161583 | Wheel Base Measuring Lifting System for Lifting a Vehicle and Method Therefor - Disclosed is a wheel based measuring system and a method for lifting a vehicle. The lifting system includes one stationary lift; a number of moveable lifts; positioning means for defining a position of a wheel axle of the vehicle; distance measuring means for determining the distance of the vehicle to a reference point; and control means for determining the distance between two vehicle axles and steering the one or more moveable lifts to the correct position. | 06-12-2014 |
| 20140169926 | SAMPLE CONTAINMENT UNIT AND PROCESS - A sample containment unit and sample containment process are disclosed. The sample containment unit includes a sample containment region, a body extending around the sample containment region, and an access portion configured to selectively enclose the sample containment region. The body includes an inner wall, an outer wall, and a foam positioned between the inner wall and the outer wall. The inner wall and the outer wall are a continuous piece of polymeric material. The sample containment process includes positioning a sample in a sample containment unit and transporting the sample containment unit. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140169927 | MICRO PICK UP ARRAY WITH INTEGRATED PIVOT MOUNT - Systems and methods for transferring a micro device from a carrier substrate are disclosed. In an embodiment, a micro pick up array structure allows the micro pick up array to automatically align with the carrier substrate. Deflection of the micro pick up array may be detected to control further movement of the micro pick up array. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140169928 | INFLATABLE LIFT CYLINDER - A method of handling a generally cylindrical conduit includes positioning a lift cylinder within the generally cylindrical conduit. The lift cylinder includes an inflatable bag, an inflation port, and an attachment point. The method also includes connecting a fluid source to the inflation port, inflating the inflatable bag with the fluid source such that an outer surface of the inflatable bag engages an inner surface of the generally cylindrical conduit, connecting a winch to the attachment point, and moving the lift cylinder and the generally cylindrical conduit with the winch. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140169929 | TRANSPORT ARM, TRANSPORT APPARATUS AND TRANSPORT METHOD - A transport arm including a holding unit that holds a substrate by vacuum adsorption. The holding unit has an air discharge port and an adsorption member formed so as to surround the air discharge port. The adsorption member is a squeeze packing. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140169930 | SELF-PROPELLED TROLLEY - The invention describes a self-propelled trolley for handling a wind-turbine blade, which trolley comprises a driving device for propelling the trolley between locations; and a lifting device, which lifting device is realised to raise and lower the wind-turbine blade. The invention also describes a method of handling a wind-turbine blade, which method comprises the steps of positioning a self-propelled trolley according to any of the preceding claims at a point underneath the wind-turbine blade; actuating a lifting device of the self-propelled trolley to raise or lower the wind-turbine blade; and controlling a driving device of the self-propelled trolley to propel the trolley between locations. | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140169931 | SLIDE TRANSFER DEVICE - A transfer device ( | 06-19-2014 |
| 20140199152 | DOUBLE DRUM TRACTION WINCH - The invention relates to a double drum traction winch ( | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140199153 | END EFFECTOR - The invention relates to an end effector for a manipulator, wherein the end effector interacts with a workpiece, wherein at least one carrier, configured in particular as a carrier plate, for a tool arrangement is provided, and wherein the tool arrangement serves to interact with the workpiece. It is proposed that the carrier is formed at least in part from a deformable material, in particular from an elastically deformable material, and that the carrier is assigned an actuating arrangement, by way of which the carrier is deformable and thus the tool arrangement is orientable in space. | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140199154 | LIFTING SYSTEM FOR LIFTING AN ITEM - A lifting system ( | 07-17-2014 |
| 20140205418 | BIG WHEEL CARGO MODULE - One variation may include a module may include a cargo cavity and at least one wheel. The module may be constructed and arranged to aid in the transportation and delivery of cargo or freight over terrain or rough surfaces. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140205419 | Sports equipment vehicle rack - A sports equipment vehicle for transporting sporting equipment is disclosed. The rack comprises of a plurality of support sections that allow the equipment carrying member to translate from the top of the vehicle roof to the side of the vehicle. Each support section has a bottom member, top equipment holding member, a first leg member, a second leg member, and a strut connected to the bottom member and the top equipment holding member. The support sections move from a transport position that has the top equipment holding member substantially parallel to the vehicle's roof to a loading position where the top equipment holding member is on a substantially inclined plane with a portion below the vehicle's roof. The first and second leg members act as a radius bar for an arc-like motion of the top equipment holding member and the strut assists with the racks movement. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140205420 | Chimney Tile Removal Tool - A tool for lifting a tile from the bore of a chimney or other vertical opening has pivotably connected arms. Jaws at the lower ends of the arms are offset from a lifting point of the tool and optionally, from the pivot point. An actuating mechanism closes the jaws. One mechanism comprises a screw that moves a nut and one or more toggle elements connected thereto. Another mechanism comprises toggle elements which connect to the upper ends of arms and pull on them when upward force is applied at a lifting point. A releasable latch keeps the arms of tool spaced apart while a tile wall is being engaged. At least one jaw is a thin plate; preferably the opposing jaw is pivotable. Both jaws may be angled relative to the principal axis of the tool. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140205421 | SINGLE JOINT ELEVATOR HAVING DEPLOYABLE JAWS - The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for lifting a single Joint of pipe. The single joint elevator of the present invention comprises, in one embodiment, a pair of deployable jaws cooperating with a pair of static jaws to secure a pipe within the slot of a generally horseshoe-shaped body. The deployable jaws of the single joint elevator of the present invention may be rotatably deployable or translatably employable, or both. In one embodiment, each jaw, including the static jaws and the deployable jaws, comprises a pipe slip movably disposed within the jaw to secure a pipe segment within the slot and to self-tighten as the weight of the pipe segment secured within the single joint elevator is transferred to the slips and the jaws. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140205422 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR STABILIZING AN EGG TRAY - The invention relates to an automated method for positioning eggs on a tray that comprises the automated detection of the presence/absence of eggs in the cells of a tray, and the picking-up of eggs from a supply and the placement thereof in the empty cells of a tray. The invention also relates to a system or positioning eggs on a stabilizing tray, the tray including evenly distributed cells in which the eggs are placed, one or more cells being likely not to contain eggs, this information being stored in an information processing unit, wherein said system includes a means in the form of a robot having an egg pick-up head that are driven by the information processing unit in order to pick up eggs from a supply tray and to place them in the empty cells of the stabilizing tray. | 07-24-2014 |
| 20140219768 | PORTABLE INDPENDENT VEHICLE LIFT AND SUPPORT SYSTEM - An improved vehicle lift system is provided for lifting and supporting a vehicle. The vehicle lift system includes a portable front lift for lifting and supporting a front end of the vehicle, a portable rear lift for lifting and supporting a rear end of the vehicle, and a portable control station for remotely controlling the front lift and the rear lift from a safe and convenient location. The vehicle lift system may include hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics, and/or mechanical linkages for distributing and providing lifting power to the front lift and the rear lift. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140219769 | METHOD FOR TRANSPORTING MINERALS AND FOSSIL FUELS FROM UNDERWATER SOURCES - The above invention pertains to the mining industry and can be applied for exploratory or industrial mining of oil, gas or gas hydrate from underwater sources and their transporting to or below the water surface. | 08-07-2014 |
| 20140234069 | QUICK-DISCONNECT HANDLE FOR LIFTING AND CARRYING LARGE FLAT PLANAR OBJECTS - A method of moving a large, flat planar object with a pair of quick-disconnect wide handles attached to an elongated handle rod, to enable a person to quickly lift the large, flat planar object, such as moving plywood panels or table-tops, doors, or other large flat items. The quick-disconnect feature uses a quick disconnect clamp with the addition of an elongated handle and attachment of a rod attachment to it; whereby one such clamp is used at each rod end attaching the handle to the large, flat planar object being carried. | 08-21-2014 |
| 20140241847 | PRODUCE PACKAGE AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING PRODUCE FOR SALE - A produce package comprises a bag and a quantity of fresh, unfrozen produce. The bag comprises a handle for carrying the bag, a base opposite the handle for supporting the bag on a surface when the bag is full, and at least one sidewall distinct from the base and extending between the base and the handle. The base and the at least one sidewall cooperate to form an interior volume of the bag and the produce is disposed within the interior volume of the bag. At least a portion of the bag is transparent for viewing the produce. Such produce packages may form part of a produce display comprising a plurality of the produce packages arranged in a single layer on a display surface with each produce package in an upright position in which the handle of the bag is at an upper end of the produce package. | 08-28-2014 |
| 20140248112 | TWO OR THREE WIND TURBINE BLADES AS ONE UNIT - The invention relates to a method for transporting two or three pre-bend wind turbine blades for a wind turbine and to a wind turbine blade transport unit, said wind turbine blades each having a length extending from a first end, e.g. a root end describing a first end plane, to a second end, e.g. a tip end, where said length is at least 35 metres, said wind turbine blades each comprising a central longitudinal axis extending perpendicular from said first end plane and towards said second end, said wind turbine blade further comprises an aerodynamically shaped body comprising a pressure side, a suction side, a leading edge and a trailing edge. According to the invention the wind turbine blades are fixated in specific positions in relation to one or two other wind turbine blades as one single transport unit. | 09-04-2014 |
| 20140248113 | MODULAR FIXTURE PLATE SYSTEM FOR POSITIONING A WORKPIECE DURING A MANUFACTURING AND/OR INSPECTION PROCESS - A modular fixture plate system comprising:
| 09-04-2014 |
| 20140255142 | CONTAINER SKATE - A container skate of synthetic material facilitates movement of a container. A sliding body has two inclined ends facilitating sliding of the body in opposite directions with a container thereon without further damage to the container or support surface over which it is moved. The body has an upstanding plug extendable into a container corner fitting so pulling of the container draws the body with it, sliding over a surface while bearing container weight. The body further includes a stop member extending therefrom and spaced from said plug. | 09-11-2014 |
| 20140271092 | LIFT EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENT MECHANISM FOR TURBINE CASING SERVICE WEDGE - A lift efficiency improvement mechanism is provided for use with a service wedge configured to be removably installed in an access slot of a turbine casing. The lift efficiency improvement mechanism includes a connector element, which is connectable with the turbine casing proximate to the access slot and a manually transportable lift efficiency improvement device, which is supportably coupled to the connector element and movably coupled to the service wedge. The lift efficiency improvement device is configured to urge the service wedge to move relative to the access slot responsive to corresponding operator control movement. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140271093 | SELF-STRAPPING ROUND BALE TRAILER - A bale retention system for retaining bales of material on a trailer, the system including a trailer with a horizontal trailer bed having first and second ends, a bale retention wall extending upwardly from the trailer bed and extending between the first and second ends of the trailer bed, and a trailer roller system including a first arm pivotably attached at its first end to a first structure at a first end of the trailer, a second arm pivotably attached at its first end to a second structure at a second end of the trailer, and a roller extending between and rotatably attached to a second end of the first and second arms. The roller system is actuatable so that the roller is moveable along an arcuate path extending from a point adjacent to a top surface of the bale retention wall to a point adjacent to the trailer bed. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140271094 | LOW PROFILE WALKING MACHINE AND METHOD OF OPERATION - A walking system for moving a load over the ground includes a substructure having laterally spaced-apart, rigidly interconnected main beams for carrying the load. A jack support beam is mounted as a cantilever on top of each main beam, and each includes a lifting jack assembly. Each lifting jack assembly includes a power-driven hydraulic cylinder having a ram and foot plate, and each is selectively operable for extending a ram downwardly to force the foot plate against the ground to raise the substructure off the ground, and for retraction to disengage the foot plates from the ground, thereby lowering the substructure to the ground. Each jack lifting assembly includes a shifter mechanism operable for displacing the main beams and the substructure along the ground in a selected steering mode when the lifting jack assemblies are actuated to raise the main beams and the substructure above the ground. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140271095 | STAIR TRAVERSING DELIVERY APPARATUS - According to an aspect of the invention, an apparatus for transporting objects comprises a frame for receiving at least one object, at least one handle coupled to the frame, at least one set of wheels coupled to the frame, at least one track coupled to the frame, wherein the track allows movement of the apparatus in addition to the wheels, and at least one brake mechanism coupled to the frame. | 09-18-2014 |
| 20140286742 | APPARATUS, SYSTEM, AND PROCESS FOR THE AUTOMATED RETRIEVAL AND PRECISE PLACEMENT OF SMALL RODS - The present invention provides an apparatus for automated vertical placement of a small rod at a predetermined location, where the apparatus includes a parallel pneumatic gripper having a driver mechanism and a double-v shaped interlocking jaw assembly configured to receive, secure, and release a small rod in a substantially vertical position in response to corresponding signals generated by the driver mechanism. The present invention also provides a robotic system for automated gross retrieval and precise placement of a small rod. The present invention further provides a process for automated gross retrieval of at least one small rod and subsequent precise and substantially vertical placement thereof into a platform at a predetermined location and at a predetermined depth. | 09-25-2014 |
| 20140301819 | HYDRAULIC LIFTING APPARATUS - A lifting apparatus for lifting a manhole cover includes a first frame section with a first end assembly that supports a hook to engage a lifting block on a manhole cover, and a second frame section with a second end assembly that supports a hook to engage a lifting block on the manhole cover. At least one of the first and second end assemblies is movable, via an actuator, with respect to the other to change a distance between hooks. The hooks are movable in a way that the hooks engage with the lifting blocks on an adjacent manhole cover. The first frame section is coupled to the second frame section during a lifting operation, and the first and second frame sections are selectively detachable from one another when not in use. | 10-09-2014 |
| 20140308108 | SYSTEM FOR SEPARATELY HANDLING DIFFERENT SIZE FOUPS - A system for separately handling different size FOUPs includes an end effector having a surface thereon for supporting a FOUP. The end effector and surface is configured to support different size FOUPs. A fixture or means for engaging and maintaining a FOUP, of different size FOUPs, included to position and maintain each of a different size FOUP on the end effector during transport thereof. A shelf is configured to receive each of said different size FOUPs. The end effector is thus capable of transporting either a first size FOUP or a second, smaller size FOUP. | 10-16-2014 |
| 20140321959 | RECYCLABLE PALLET AND METHOD OF USE - A pallet and method for efficient transport of materials. The pallet provides a means for containing leaking, thawing or loose cargo and preventing loss of same. The pallet incorporates one or more retaining walls disposed around the pallet base, and one or more integral retention volumes disposed below the base. | 10-30-2014 |
| 20140328662 | MANHOLE DEBRIS SHIELD - A device for capturing and removing substantially all debris that falls into a manhole includes a flexible, substantially circular folded disk that is inserted into the manhole prior to performance of the debris-creating work, and is unfolded by an unfolding mechanism until the rim of the disk rests against the manhole bounding wall. Semi-rigid rods are secured to eyelets adjacent to the perimeter of the disk and terminate above the disk at a common junction, to which a removal and insertion mechanism can be attached. The device may be left inside of the manhole, separated from the insertion and removal mechanism, during performance of the debris creating work, and then folded and removed after the work is completed, thereby trapping and removing the debris. In embodiments, the unfolding mechanism includes supports radiating outward from the center of the disk and attached to the disk along their entire lengths. | 11-06-2014 |
| 20140334910 | ROLLER LIFT HANDLE SYSTEM - A roller lift handle system moves a roller between a raised roller position in which the roller elevates a support post above the underlying terrain and a lowered roller position in which the support post contacts the underlying terrain. | 11-13-2014 |
| 20140341696 | FORESTRY WINCH SYSTEM - A winch system | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140341697 | PROTECTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CARGO LOADS DURING EXPOSED AERIAL TRANSPORT - A method for transporting a cargo load using a carrier aircraft includes: mounting a shield on the cargo load such that the shield is supported by the cargo load to form a protected load; and aerial transporting the protected load as a slung load from the carrier aircraft, wherein the shield serves to protect the cargo load from aerodynamic loads generated by flight of the carrier aircraft. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140341698 | RELOCATION AND SUPPORT DEVICE - The present invention relates to the relocation and support of construction equipment. Specifically, the invention relates a relocation and support device which supports a machine on a working deck by transferring the machine load to the structure through reaction collar assembly units. Additionally, the invention enables the vertically relocation of a machine. Safety features are included. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140341699 | VACUUM EFFECTOR AND METHOD OF USE - Vacuum effectors comprising: (a) a wall defining an enclosed opening and having a rim defining a lip plane; (b) a negative pressure source; (c) a shroud covering the rim; and (d) optionally a permeable support member spanning the enclosed opening, the support member being substantially planar and recessed a selected depth from the lip plane. Also, methods of manipulating work pieces using such vacuum effectors. | 11-20-2014 |
| 20140348627 | LIFTING ASSEMBLY - A lifting assembly includes a link member defining a pivot axis and a latch axis. The lifting assembly also includes a latch pin and a jaw member. The jaw member is pivotally coupled to the link member about the pivot axis and selectively fixedly coupled to the link member about the latch axis by the latch pin. The jaw member defines a cam surface. Engaging the cam surface with a load rotates a portion of the jaw member into alignment with the latch axis, such that the latch pin may be received by the jaw member and the link member. | 11-27-2014 |
| 20140356121 | Mobile Loading Dock with Wheel Assembly - A mobile loading dock including a planar ramp member having an underside with a wheel assembly. The wheel assembly includes a tension spring, hydraulic member, a leg hingedly attached to the ramp underside and a wheel attached to the leg. The tension spring exerts a pulling force on the leg and wheel and the hydraulic member exerts a pushing force. The combined forces are directionally disposed to erect the wheel assembly when the lower end of the mobile loading dock is raised from a resting position in contact with the ground surface to a mobile position. | 12-04-2014 |
| 20140369801 | Shopping Cart with Folding Legs - A four-wheel shopping cart includes a substantially rectangular base surrounded by vertical side, front and rear walls to form an open-topped, cargo basket. The front wall opens fully to provide access to the cargo area, while the rear wall is shorter than the others to allow easy access from behind while shopping. A transverse axle mounted below the rear wall supports hinged legs that fold upwards alongside the side walls so the cart can be placed conveniently into a vehicle for transportation. The legs unfold and lock to support the cart on castors for shopping, and may include height adjustment means for lowering the basket to a comfortable level for usage and for raising it to place it into the shopper's vehicle. A pair of small, adjustable wheels mounted on opposite front corners of the base pivot partially to facilitate maneuvering the cart within the vehicle. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140369802 | METHODS, APPARATUSES, AND SYSTEMS FOR MICROMANIPULATION WITH ADHESIVE FIBRILLAR STRUCTURES - The present invention are methods for fabrication of micro- and/or nano-scale adhesive fibers and their use for movement and manipulation of objects. | 12-18-2014 |
| 20140377049 | ROBOTIC CONTAINER REORGANIZER - A robotic container reorganizer has a robot arm that holds a robotic tool. The robotic tool can reconfigure a plurality of articles from a first configuration to a second configuration. The robotic arm may pick up a collection of articles in a first configuration with the robotic tool, and may reconfigure the articles with the robotic tool into a second configuration. The second configuration of articles may be set down after reconfiguration. The first configuration of articles has a first width and a first length, and the second configuration has a second length and a second width. The first width and the first length of the first configuration differ from the second width and the second length of the second configuration. | 12-25-2014 |
| 20150016939 | RAISING A TOWER SEGMENT - A raising device realized to be connected to a tower segment of a wind turbine is provided. The raising device comprises a connection member to a raising machine and a plurality of holding members positioned at predefined distances from each other and orientated to be movable in radial locking directions which locking directions are such that the holding members when moved into a locking position at a predefined engagement position of the tower segment engage with a counter-shape of the tower segment, whereby the holding members are automatically tiltable and/or shiftable into the locking position by a movement mechanism. A method of equipping a tower segment of a wind turbine for transport by means of such raising device is also provided. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150016940 | MODULAR MOVING SYSTEM AND APPARATUS - A method of moving freight which utilizes removable storage units or containers that have the same or similar size and which can be positioned on a specially designed truck frame and/or a trailer frame. The storage units are filled with freight such as household goods, taken to a storage facility or warehouse and stored by removing the entire storage unit from the truck or trailer utilizing, for example, a fork lift. The freight can be reloaded by loading the storage unit onto a truck or a trailer, which then delivers the freight to its final destination where it is removed from the storage unit. Multiple storage units loaded at different locations can be transported by the same truck and trailer from the warehouse to separate final unloading destinations. The truck and trailer are connected by a stinger steer mechanism which adjusts the distance between the truck and trailer providing a more versatile unit. | 01-15-2015 |
| 20150023774 | FOLDING GUARD RAIL METHOD AND APPARATUS - The present invention is for a safety guard rail system having folding guard rails designed to be raised or lowered at their base by a single individual from an acceptable safe distance from the edge of a precipice, such as the edge of a building roof. A sliding sleeve hinge lock locks each folding rail in an erect position and can be remotely unlocked for folding the rail. An elongated grappling tool has a hook-like end for grabbing the sliding sleeve hinge lock handle for locking and unlocking the hinge lock from a distance when erecting or folding a guard rail. | 01-22-2015 |
| 20150030427 | Gripping Mechanism for a Lifting Device and Method for Using the Gripping Mechanism - A method for using a gripping mechanism and a gripping mechanism for lifting devices is disclosed. In an embodiment a gripping mechanism includes a frame comprising parallel longitudinal members and cross members, a connecting device supported by the frame, the connecting device configured to receive a lifting gear and carriages connected to the longitudinal members, the carriages configured to be adjustable along the longitudinal members, wherein the carriages are adjustable by a drive. The gripping mechanism further includes rewinding devices located at the carriages and continuous flexible elements configured to receive a product to be transported, wherein ends of the continuous flexible elements are connected to the rewind devices, and wherein the rewinding devices are configured to lengthen or shorten the continuous flexible elements. | 01-29-2015 |
| 20150044011 | APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR WIND TURBINE COMPONENT REPLACEMENT - A system, apparatus and method for wind turbine component replacement. The method may include coupling a spreader to a wind turbine component, raising a hoist into the nacelle, raising a spool of cable into a nacelle of the wind turbine, mounting the hoist on a member of the nacelle, routing the cable from the spool of cable to the hoist, and routing the cable between at least one sheave disposed on the hoist and at least one sheave disposed on the spreader. The system may include a spreader, the spreader adapted to couple to a wind turbine component, the spreader including at least one longitudinal member, a pair of transverse members, and at least one first sheave, and a hoist, the hoist adapted to couple to a member of the nacelle, the hoist including a frame, a motor, and at least one second sheave. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150044012 | ROTATING SHIPPING AND STORAGE CONTAINER - The invention discloses a rotating container and method of shipping, transporting, and using the container. The container has utility for transport, onsite storage, shipping, intermodal shipping, and commodity loading and unloading. An embodiment of a version of the invention comprises an exoskeleton, a tank positioned inside the exoskeleton, a rotator between the tank and exoskeleton, and the tank and exoskeleton attached to the rotator. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150044013 | MAGNETIC RETRIEVAL TOOL - A magnetic retrieval tool for retrieving devices, such as probes, from a pressurized system. The retrieval tool uses a magnetic coupling to transfer movement of an external mechanism (i.e. external to the pressurized system), such as by an operator's manual movement, a motor or other drive, to an internal mechanism (i.e. internal to the pressurized system). The magnetic coupling may be through a wall of a pressure vessel using an outer magnetic core coupled to the outside of the pressure vessel which magnetically couples to an inner magnetic core disposed on the inside of the pressure vessel, such that translational or rotational movement of the outer magnetic core cause substantially simultaneous and corresponding translational and/or rotational movement of the inner magnetic core. An end effector tool is coupled to the inner magnetic core to engage and retrieve or insert the device into the pressurized system. | 02-12-2015 |
| 20150050114 | READ-THROUGH CARD ACCESS TAB - A removable and positionable gripping element for attaching to cards has:
| 02-19-2015 |
| 20150050115 | ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT HOUSING, HOUSING WORKBENCH AND DRAWING METHOD - An electronic equipment housing includes: a housing including a housing space that houses an electronic equipment and a workbench; and a first support provided in the housing, wherein the workbench includes: a base detachably attached to the first support; a placing plate, liftably coupled to the base, configured to place the electronic equipment on a placing surface; and a lifting mechanism configured to move the placing plate with respect to the base. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150050116 | LIFTING DEVICE, SYSTEM, AND METHOD - A lifting device comprises three or more links hingedly joined end-to-end such that the lifting device is able to hingedly move in a first direction from a linear arrangement to a bent arrangement but is not able to hingedly move from the linear arrangement to a bent arrangement in a second direction opposite the first direction. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150050117 | RACK APPARATUS - A rack apparatus for tire rings includes a base having a rigid frame coupled thereto. The base includes a plurality of spaced apart members configured to receive manipulating components of a material handling device for transportation to a desired location. The frame is coupled to the base and includes a plurality of receiving members configured to removably receive at least one tire ring thereon. | 02-19-2015 |
| 20150056056 | PALLET TRANSPORTATION ASSEMBLY AND PROCESSES OF TRANSPORTING PALLETS USING THE SAME - The present invention relates to a pallet transportation assembly comprising a first and second tine, each having a top, a bottom, a front wheel, a middle wheel, a rear wheel, and a riser; and a body coupled to the first and second tines comprising a tine adjustment system and a vertical backing portion. | 02-26-2015 |
| 20150071754 | Method and Apparatus for Supporting an Aircraft Structure During Repair - Systems and methods for jacking an aircraft structure using beams coupled to seat tracks attached to a floor beam grid structure. Mechanical load distribution plates can have offset lift pin location to allow a certain percentage of the load to be applied to specific seat tracks. Different quantities of seat tracks can be utilized per requirements. Attachment rails that interface with the seat tracks use the same hardware that is used to fasten aircraft seats to the seat tracks. This helps handle the load and prevent damage to the seat tracks. The jacking apparatus also includes load swivels and a hanger link to prevent any side or twisting loads from being applied. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150071755 | GRIPPER FOR A CONTACT LENS AND PROCESS FOR TRANSPORTING A CONTACT LENS - A gripper ( | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150071756 | Transporting Loads on Support Surfaces - In certain aspects, a roller assembly includes a base structure defining multiple recesses that extend inwardly from a top surface of the base structure, a first wheel, and a second wheel. The multiple recesses are configured such that at least one of the multiple recesses is engageable with an auxiliary component of the load, and the multiple recesses include a central recess positioned at a center of the top surface of the base structure. The first wheel is disposed along a first side of the base structure, and the second wheel is disposed along a second side of the base structure, the second side of the base structure being spaced apart from and parallel to the first side of the base structure. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150071757 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR REPOSITIONING OBJECTS - Systems for repositioning objects, such as, for example, food items in a refrigerator, are provided. The systems may include a platform having a support surface upon which the objects are supported, an electromagnet positioned beneath the platform, a motion system coupled to electromagnet, and a control system electronically and/or communicatively coupled to the motion system and the electromagnet. The control system may be configured to controllably move the electromagnet beneath the support surface and to selectively activate and deactivate the electromagnet in coordination with said movement to reposition the objects. Related methods of repositioning objects are also provided. | 03-12-2015 |
| 20150086320 | LIFTING SYSTEM AND METHOD - Embodiments described herein may include at least one pole including a plurality of projections disposed at incremental heights along the pole, an object, a first pulley positioned on a first side of the object, and a second pulley positioned on the second side of the object. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150086321 | METHOD FOR LIFTING A CONCRETE PRODUCT WITH A LIFTING BOOM AND LIFTING BOOM - Method for lifting a concrete product with a lifting boom and a lifting boom, in which method the lifting boom is moved above the concrete product to be lifted with a crane, lifting hooks of the lifting boom are set in lifting loops located in the concrete product to be lifted, and the lifting is carried out by lifting the lifting boom together with the concrete product with a crane, wherein the location of at least one lifting loop in the concrete product to be lifted is detected by a control system of the lifting boom, which control systems moves at least one lifting hook along the lifting boom to the location of the lifting loop. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150086322 | Truss hinge with variations in angular settings - A truss hinge that includes a number of different labeled parts, where connections between the two different parts can constrain the truss to different angles. | 03-26-2015 |
| 20150093230 | Gripping Device for Gripping Sheet Material - A gripping device for gripping a sheet-material stack has at least two gripping elements for gripping a sheet-material stack disposed between the gripping elements, which gripping elements can be moved toward each other in order to grip the sheet-material stack. At least one of the gripping fingers of one of the gripping elements is tiltable from its starting position, in which it is oriented substantially parallel to the stack surface, into a tilted position, in which it is inclined toward the stack surface. With the gripping device any types of sheet-material stacks can be reliably and trouble-free removed from a container and held against gravity through grip-clamping. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150093231 | ADVANCED CRUCIBLE SUPPORT AND THERMAL DISTRIBUTION MANAGEMENT - According to the disclosed embodiments, an advanced crucible support system is described that allows for greater heat flow to and from the bottom of a crucible, while also preventing excessive heat from reaching a heat exchanger. In particular, a “crown” support base is described that provides heat flow throughout the system, yet with various features to limit the amount of heat reaching the heat exchanger. Also, according to one or more additional embodiments, the functionality of the crucible support is adapted to be leveraged by a crucible manipulating device. For example, the support plate may have features designed within it for enabling lifting devices to interface with it, such as a plurality of slots for insertion of a “lifting arm”, such that the entire support plate assembly, as well as the crucible itself while on the support assembly, may be lifted and transported as a single unit. | 04-02-2015 |
| 20150104285 | Device and method for securing nursery stock during transport - One embodiment of a device and method for securing nursery stock during transport comprising a plurality of rigid vertical brackets ( | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150104286 | PICKING STATION AND METHOD FOR PICKING ARTICLES - The invention relates to a method and to a picking station ( | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150104287 | MATERIAL HANDLING UNIT - A material handling unit. An elongate cargo bed of the material handling unit includes paired anchor points for attaching to a securing member to secure cargo to the cargo bed. The cargo bed is reinforced to allow the cargo to be secured to the cargo bed during loading of the material handling unit onto a transport, transporting of the material handling unit to a job site, and unloading of the material handling unit from the transport. A shelter encloses the cargo bed and defines an access point along the length of the cargo bed. The cargo bed is accessible from the access points for loading and unloading cargo. The anchor points are accessible from the access point for securing the cargo to the cargo bed or removing the securing member from the cargo. | 04-16-2015 |
| 20150110594 | MODIFIABLE RACK SYSTEM - A modifiable rack system can be connected to a vehicle such as a truck or a tractor, and includes a receptacle for holding a variety of items including materials and equipment. The rack system includes a variety of add-ons for organizing and retaining equipment, and a hinged tail gate for easy access. The rack system includes a trailer hitch so a rolling trailer, or the like, can be daisy-chained off the back end. Wheels can be mounted to the rack system so the rack system can used as a rolling cart. The rack system is able to withstand large forces during use because of a tow support spine, and associated structures, which impart tremendous strength. | 04-23-2015 |
| 20150118005 | DUAL RECYCLABLES AND NON-RECYCLABLE WASTE COLLECTION DEVICE AND METHOD THEREFOR - A device for commercial waste collection has a first container and a second container. A lid covers the first container. A first pair of lifting sleeves is attached to side surfaces of the first container for lifting the first container. A second pair of lifting sleeves is attached to side surfaces of the second container and positioned below the first pair of lifting sleeves. A third pair of lifting sleeves is attached to the side surfaces of the first container and aligned with the second pair of lifting sleeves. The second pair of lifting sleeves and the third pair of lifting sleeves are used together to lift both the first container and the second container together. A latching mechanism is provided for preventing opening of the lid when lifting both the first container and the second container together | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150118006 | STORAGE AND TRANSPORT APPARATUS AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A transport and storage apparatus includes two support members pivotally connected to a substantially rectangular base platform at opposed sides of the platform, and a plurality of wheels are attached to the bottom surface of the base platform. The base can include first and second end sections pivotally connected to a mid-section. The apparatus can be moved between a loading position in which the mid-section, the first end section and the second end section are substantially co-planar and the support members extend substantially upwardly from the base platform, to a storage position in which the support members lie flat on the upper surface of the base platform and the first and second end sections extend substantially perpendicular to the mid-section. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150118007 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ALIGNING OBJECTS - Methods herein relate to aligning objects and can include aligning a transmitter and a receiver to establish a reference line, advancing one or more objects in a direction of advance toward the reference line, interrupting the reference line with the one or more objects and withdrawing the one or more objects opposite the direction of advance until the reference line is uninterrupted. Alternative or complementary aspects relating to alignment can include detecting an interruption of the reference line based on an object entering the path between the transmitter and the receiver, transmitting an interruption signal based on the detected interruption of the reference line detecting a reestablishment of the reference, and transmitting a continuity signal based on the detected reestablishment of the reference line. Systems for effecting such techniques are also disclosed. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150118008 | ENHANCED MATERIAL PROCESSING DEVICE AND METHOD - An enhanced material-processing device and method are disclosed, having a processing tool of substantially circular circumference, which is operative with a power tool having a rotating spindle and jaws, which clamp the processing tool. The enhanced material-processing device has a central opening that is entered concentrically in the processing tool for receiving a clutch mechanism, and a hub structure. The hub structure is associated with the clutch mechanism to form a slip clutch that is integrally mounted in the enhanced material-processing device and is operative by application of an axial compression friction fit on the processing tool, which slips relative to the rotating spindle when a threshold torque limit is reached. The clutch mechanism is preloaded in axial compression through a predetermined elastic strain distance to provide a friction fit having a torque limit threshold, which torque limit of the slip clutch is controllably pre-adjustable. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150118009 | Graphite Wafer Carrier for LED Epitaxial Wafer Processes - A graphite wafer carrier for LED epitaxial wafer processes, having a plurality of wafer pocket profiles above the carrier for carrying the epitaxial wafer substrate. The inner edge of the wafer pocket profile is a concave step with a plurality of inward-extended support portions; and also has a graphite wafer carrier edge and an axle hole at the center of the graphite wafer carrier. The pocket profiles of different quantities and sizes can be arranged on the basis of different process parameters. The disclosed structure can reduce or eliminate airflow interference and improve the wafer edge yield. | 04-30-2015 |
| 20150125250 | LIVESTOCK CHUTE PULLER AND A METHOD OF USING THE SAME - A cart enabling a single person to pull a livestock chute across the ground. The cart includes a bar having a handle and wheels provided at opposing ends. The bar includes first and second members pivotally engaged together. A crossbar pivotally mounted on the bar includes first and second arms configured to engage handles on a lower front end of the chute. When the bar is in a collapsed position, where the first and second members are disposed at an angle to each other, the first and second arms are insertable into the chute handles. When the bar is moved to an erected position, where the first and second members are aligned along the same plane, a force is applied to a footrest on the bar. The arms lift the front end of the chute off the ground and the cart's wheels move under the front end of the chute. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150125251 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR ASSISTING CARRYING OF OBJECTS BY HAND - An apparatus and a method of using the apparatus for assisting in the carrying of an object having a handle are disclosed. The apparatus is in one embodiment a strap formed into a loop with a reinforcing member attached to a portion of the loop so as to create a rigid portion of the strap. The loop is passed through the handle of the object to be carried, with the rigid portion on the side of the handle away from the user. The user's hand is passed through the loop on the side facing the user and the user lets the weight of the object pull the loop onto the back of the user's wrist. The user can control the object by rotating the hand with minimal pressure by the fingers on the rigid portion of the loop. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150125252 | CRAWLER FOR TRANSPORTING HEAVY LOADS, SYSTEM COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF CRAWLERS AND METHOD FOR TRANSPORTING HEAVY LOADS - A crawler for transporting loads, having at least two chain drive units ( | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150125253 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING GLACIAL WATER - Methods and systems for recovering, processing, containing, and transporting water obtained from an ice source, i.e., a glacier, ice sheet, ice cap, etc., are described herein. The ice obtained from the ice source holds unique properties and is processed as a beverage for consumption having unique properties. Further, the resulting product is produced and transported with minimal human alteration and reduced energy input as compared to conventional methods for packaging water. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150125254 | Low Profile Cargo Handling System - Different advantageous embodiments provide a method and apparatus to increase a clearance of a cargo area of an aircraft. The apparatus and method may comprise an aircraft with a cargo area. A tray system may have a plurality of segment trays with each segment tray positioned between a plurality of floor beams located underneath a surface of the floor of the cargo area. A plurality of rollers in the tray system may be configured to allow an object to be moved across the cargo area. | 05-07-2015 |
| 20150132097 | ANTI-TIP ROLLER - The present invention is a file cabinet with a roller positioned on the bottom of the cabinet in proximity to a front edge of the cabinet to prevent the cabinet from tipping over when acted on by a force generally perpendicular to the front edge. The present invention also provides a method of moving the file cabinet by rolling the file cabinet on the roller. | 05-14-2015 |
| 20150147151 | METHOD FOR POSITIONING OF EQUIPMENT - Methods for the positioning of equipment are disclosed. One method of the present disclosure can include substantially aligning an equipment support structure with an equipment fixture point of a casing structure; adjusting the equipment support structure to have a selected height and a selected angle; sliding the equipment support structure across a platform having the selected height and the selected angle to reach the equipment fixture point; and coupling a piece of equipment to one of the equipment support structure and the equipment fixture point. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150147152 | Pipe Connection Guide Arrangement - A pipe connection guide arrangement is adapted to align a first pipe section having a first flange with a second pipe section having a second flange. The arrangement includes a guide bar to be attached to the first pipe section in a manner in which the guide bar projects longitudinally beyond the first flange. Similarly, a guide funnel is to be attached to a second pipe section, wherein the guide funnel is adapted to receive and locate the guide bar to laterally align the first pipe section to the second pipe section. A stopper bar is provided on the guide bar forward of the first flange, wherein the stopper bar is adapted to abut against the guide funnel to longitudinally align the first pipe section. | 05-28-2015 |
| 20150292142 | METHOD FOR CAPTURING AN ITEM OF LAUNDRY - A method for capturing an item of laundry in a reliable and efficient manner. Washed items of laundry usually leave a washing machine intertwined with one another as a pile of laundry. Before the items of laundry that come out of a washing machine in this way are subjected to further treatment steps, for example mangling or sorting, they have to be separated. In the method, the topography of the item of laundry is ascertained and at least one point of the item of laundry at which the item of laundry is intended to be captured and/or preferably can be captured by a capturing means is determined on the basis of this topography. The item of laundry is captured by the capturing means by specific control of the capturing means at this point. | 10-15-2015 |
| 20150298901 | Lifting Device for Container and Method for Using the Same - A lifting device is for a container. The lifting device is arranged to be attached at one end of the container. The lifting device comprises a tow bar being adjustable between an erect position and an unfolded position; an undercarriage connected to the tow bar and provided with one or more wheels, the undercarriage being adjustable between at least a raised position and a lowered position, and the undercarriage being arranged, in the lowered, position, to carry at least part of the weight of the container. The undercarriage is arranged to be adjusted from the raised position into the lowered position by means of manual force and/or gravity. The undercarriage is arranged to be adjusted from the raised position to the lowered position when the end of the container has been lifted above the supporting surface. A method is for using a lifting device for a container. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150298913 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR SEPARATION OF PIECE GOODS TO BE PLACED IN STORAGE IN AN AUTOMATED STORAGE UNIT - An apparatus for separating piece goods which are to be stored in an automated store comprises a stepped conveyor for conveying piece goods from a stockpile beyond an upper edge of the stepped conveyor to a collecting device, wherein the stepped conveyor comprises an inclined bearing surface and a first step which can be moved in parallel over the bearing surface with a conveying edge which is parallel to the bearing surface, wherein the spacing between the bearing surface and the conveying edge corresponds to a minimum step height which suffices to push parallelepiped-shaped piece goods upwards, and a control device for actuating the stepped conveyor, which control device is coupled to a sensor which detects whether a piece goods item has been conveyed beyond the upper edge. | 10-22-2015 |
| 20150314436 | Mobile Automated Assembly Tool for Aircraft Structures - A method and apparatus for performing an operation on a surface of a structure. An assembly system may comprise a motion platform and a mobile platform. The motion platform may be configured to be positioned below the surface of the structure to perform the operation on the surface. The mobile platform may be configured to carry the motion platform across a floor of a manufacturing environment from a first location to a second location. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150315862 | EXTENDED SHALE SHAKER SCREEN HANDLE(S) - This disclosure is generally drawn to systems, devices, apparatus, and/or methods related to shaker/filtration systems for drilling environments. Specifically, the disclosed systems, devices, apparatus, and/or methods relate to extended handles on screens used in shaker/filtration systems for drilling environments. In some examples, extended screen handle(s) may include a fastening portion and a handling portion. The fastening portion may be adapted to be coupled to a screen along a side of the screen, and the handling portion may be coupled to the fastening portion. The handling portion may extend above the screen and extend about 25-100% of the length of the side of the screen. | 11-05-2015 |
| 20150321224 | MOBILE MODULAR SCREEN PLANT WITH HORIZONTAL AND VARIABLE OPERATING ANGLES - A mobile variable angle vibrating screen with the ability to process aggregate material in a horizontal orientation and at incrementally higher angles of inclination where changes in angles of inclination can be affected without the need to dismantle the vibrating screen and without the use of hand tools. The variable angle screen being configured: to blend output at all of the various operating angles of inclination, be transportable with a detachable bolt on feeder module; have an overhead feed conveyor which operates at a substantially horizontal configuration and at various operating angles of inclination. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150321338 | MASS TRANSFER TOOL MANIPULATOR ASSEMBLY WITH REMOTE CENTER OF COMPLIANCE - Systems and methods for transferring a micro device or an array of micro devices to or from a substrate are disclosed. In an embodiment, a remote center robot allows on-the-fly alignment between a micro pick up array and a target substrate. The remote center robot may include a plurality of symmetric linkages that move independently and share a remote rotational center. In an embodiment, the remote rotational center may be positioned at a surface of the micro pick up array to prevent damage to the array of micro devices during transfer. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150321888 | METHOD FOR RETRIEVING STORAGE RACKS FROM A TANK FREEZER USING A RETRIEVAL CRANE, AND RELATED COMBINATIONS - A method for retrieving storage racks in a tank freezer includes positioning a retrieval crane adjacent to the tank freezer such that a base of the retrieval crane is positionable underneath a bottom wall of a tank body. The retrieval crane includes a boom extending upwardly and laterally outwardly over the base so that a retention hook at a free end of a cable associated with the boom may be extended or retracted relative to the tank freezer. More specifically, the cable may be moved to extend the hook through the opening of the tank freezer into a storage space, and then retract the hook to lift and then hold a selected storage rack in a hoisted position. The method avoids the use of manual hoisting of storage racks, and the retrieval crane may be used with any of a plurality of similar tank freezers located in a larger facility. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150323127 | FLYING PLATFORM WITH VISUALLY TRANSPARENT FLEXIBLE SUPPORT MEMBERS - A suspended flying system having a load suspended by a plurality of flexible support members. The plurality of flexible support members are attached to a first rotational element attached to the load and a second rotational element attached to a support. The system also includes a motor operably connected to the first rotational element providing sufficient motion to the plurality of flexible support members to render the flexible support members visually transparent, the load being movable within a space. A method for suspending a load from visually transparent flexible support members is also disclosed. | 11-12-2015 |
| 20150334812 | DESIGN TO MANAGE CHARGE AND DISCHARGE OF WAFERS AND WAFER CARRIER RINGS - Embodiments of the invention include methods and apparatuses for removing charge from a carrier ring assembly. Embodiments include picking up a carrier ring assembly from a first location with an end effector. The charge is removed from the carrier ring assembly by one or more charge regulating surfaces formed on an end effector. According to an embodiment the charge regulating surfaces may be pads formed above top surfaces of an end effector blade. Embodiments include charge regulating surfaces that cover the entire surface of the end effector blade. Embodiments include removing charge from a carrier ring of an end effector assembly, and from a substrate supported on a conductive adhesive backing tape surrounded by the carrier ring. In an embodiment, the carrier ring assembly is then transferred to a second location with the end effector. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150334888 | PROCESS APPARATUS CAPABLE OF PUSHING PANEL-SHAPED OBJECT AND PROCESS METHOD THEREOF - A process apparatus capable of pushing a panel-shaped object includes a process apparatus and at least one panel-shaped object. The process apparatus includes a carrying fixture and a separating fixture. The carrying fixture has a top surface and a bottom surface opposite to each other and has at least one positioning pillar. The separating fixture has a pushing portion. The panel-shaped object has at least one positioning hole and is carried on the top surface. The positioning pillar is inserted into the positioning hole to position the panel-shaped object. The pushing portion is adapted to move from the bottom surface toward the top surface and protrude out of the top surface, such that the panel-shaped object is pushed up by the pushing portion to be separated from the carrying fixture. In addition, a process method adapted to the process apparatus capable of pushing a panel-shaped object is also provided. | 11-19-2015 |
| 20150336705 | TRAY FOR FRUIT OR VEGETABLES - There is provided a tray ( | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150337944 | METHOD FOR PROTECTING FROM DAMAGE DURING TRANSPORT OF TRANSMISSIONS - A method for protecting transmissions against damage during transport, in that at least one transmission component located in the force flow is braced in itself. Thereafter, transporting the transmission to a desired site and then removing the brace to free the drive input and the drive output shafts. | 11-26-2015 |
| 20150343494 | Modular parcel terminal and method for sending parcels - The modular parcel terminal according to the present invention has been built from modules comprising outward moving open-topped compartments and compartments with doors and the console module. The outward moving open-topped compartments have been located in the parcel terminal in such a pattern that would allow achieving the maximum capacity of the parcel terminal and that it would be comfortable and safe for the user to enter and retrieve parcels, postal packages, storable items at the parcel terminal. The modules of the parcel terminal have been built in such a way that allows them to be connected with each other according to the need of storage space in a particular parcel terminal exploitation area. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150344275 | MOVABLE UNIT FOR TRANSPORT OF A MOULD DRUM AND METHODS THEREOF - The present invention relates to a mould drum for moulding products from a mass of food starting material. The mould drum comprises one or more cavities with a mould cavity wall having at least partially a porous structure, whereas each cavity is connected to a passage. The present invention further relates to a cleaning apparatus for the inventive mould drum with supporting means for supporting the axis of the drum. Additionally, the present invention relates to a process for cleaning the inventive drum. | 12-03-2015 |
| 20150351845 | ASSEMBLY INCLUDING AT LEAST ONE IMPLANT, ONE GRIPPING DEVICE AND ONE ELEMENT FOR THE TRACEABILITY OF THE IMPLANT, AND METHOD FOR TRACEABLY HANDLING THE IMPLANT OF SUCH AN ASSEMBLY - A kit of the type including at least an implant ( | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150352916 | Device and Method for Towing Vehicles Having an Air Suspension - A device and associated method of use for towing a vehicle having an air suspension is provided. The present invention is a substantially cylindrical coupling unit have a first end adapted to engage with a receiver of an underlift towing device, a second end adapted to engage with a slot disposed beneath the certain models of suspensions, and a coaxial collar disposed therebetween. The present coupling unit replaces underlift forks that are conventionally used with underlift towing devices. By engaging with the slot beneath the air suspension, rather than the axle as with the underlift forks, the present invention avoids the potential for the underlift device to bottom out against the underbody of the vehicle to be towed. | 12-10-2015 |
| 20150360916 | A DEVICE AND METHOD FOR LIFTING AND LOWERING A LOAD - The invention relates generally to a method and a device for lifting and lowering respectively a load, said load having a lifting loop attached to said load. The device comprising: a first member having means for attachment to a lifting device and means for attachment to the lifting loop of said load; a second member having means on said second member for automatically guiding said lifting loop to define a path for coupling and uncoupling of said lifting loop to and from said first member; a securing mechanism on said first member which automatically secures said lifting loop to said first member when said lifting loop engages said first member; and a release mechanism for releasing the securing mechanism to release the lifting loop from the first member. | 12-17-2015 |
| 20150367985 | A TRANSPORT UNIT AND A METHOD FOR LIFTING SUCH A TRANSPORT UNIT - A transport unit comprising a mineral wool plate package is disclosed. The mineral wool plate package has a bottom surface, and a two separate feet arranged at the bottom surface. Two separate feet support the mineral wool plate package for keeping mineral wool plates of the package at a distance from the ground when the transport unit is positioned on the ground. As such, two separate feet allow a fork of a fork-lift to be inserted between the feet for lifting up the transport unit. Each of the feet comprises a lower part, an upper part, and a step between the lower part and the upper part. The step provides a space for accommodating a lifting strap for lifting up the transport unit. | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150368073 | CLAMP SYSTEM, GRIPPING DEVICE THEREFORE AND METHOD OF USING THE CLAMP SYSTEM - In a clamp system for a slender object ( | 12-24-2015 |
| 20150373912 | BALE CLAMP - A bale clamp comprises at least one actuator. The bale clamp also comprises at least two clamp members and at least one protruding portion extending from each clamp member. At least one of the protruding portions is configured such that, in use, it may be inserted into a bale. At least one of the clamp members can be caused by the actuator to move relatively towards the other clamp member(s) such that at least part of the bale can be secured between the protruding portions of the clamp members. | 12-31-2015 |
| 20160001749 | TRAILER STABILIZATION AND RESTRAINT - A parked freight trailer stabilizer and restraint comprising: (a) a kingpin receiver configured to lock onto a kingpin of a parked freight trailer; (b) a jack operatively coupled to the kingpin receiver, the jack repositionable between a retracted position and an extended position; (c) a tail hold operatively coupled to the kingpin receiver, the tail hold repositionable between a stowed position and a restraining position, the tail hold configured to engage a ground mount; and, (d) a transport receiver configured to engage a transport vehicle. | 01-07-2016 |
| 20160008987 | PAD FOR TRANSFER APPARATUS, OBJECT TRANSFER APPARATUS INCLUDING THE PAD, AND OBJECT TRANSFER METHOD | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160009508 | System and Method for Reducing Shipping Costs | 01-14-2016 |
| 20160016767 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LIFTING AND SUPPORTING STORAGE TANKS - A method and apparatus for lifting and supporting a storage tank uses a series of lifting devices on piles spaced around the periphery of the tank. Each lifting device includes a lower threaded bar with a coupler that engages the upper end of a pile. A lifting bracket is inserted under or attached to the tank, and includes a tube that slides along the lower threaded bar. A plurality of upper threaded bars extend upward from the lifting bracket and pass through a horizontal beam that can slide vertically on them. Upward movement of the horizontal beam is limited by nuts on the upper threaded bars. A jack is placed between the horizontal beam and the lower threaded bar to raise the lifting bracket by exerting upward force on the horizontal beam. The lifting bracket can be held in this raised position by a nut on the lower threaded bar. | 01-21-2016 |
| 20160023869 | ASSEMBLY FOR MOVING A COMPONENT RELATIVE TO A CEILING OF AN ENGINE ENCLOSURE - An assembly for moving a component relative to a ceiling of an engine enclosure includes a first-class lever, and a harnessing mechanism. The first-class lever is formed in at least one of the ceiling and a structure disposed above the ceiling. The first-class lever has a first side, and a second side located proximal to an opening defined in the ceiling. The harnessing mechanism includes a flexible link having a first end and a second end. The first end is disposed on the first side and is configured to allow an effort to be applied thereto. The second end is disposed on the second side and is configured to releasably connect with the component. The second end may hoist or lower the component relative to the ceiling in response to the effort and based on a type of effort applied at the first end. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160027095 | LASER MOBILE PUT WALL - A method of fulfilling orders and order fulfillment system includes a mobile assembly cart having a plurality of order assembly positions and a pointer assembly. The pointer assembly generates a beam and directs the beam to at least one of said assembly positions for selectively identifying at least one of the assembly positions for putting an item to or retrieving an order from each identified position. The assembly cart can be positioned with respect to the pointer assembly for the picking or putting and moved away from the pointer assembly after the picking or putting. | 01-28-2016 |
| 20160031075 | PISTON SUPPLY APPARATUS AND PISTON SUPPLY METHOD - A piston supply apparatus includes a piston gripping portion and a piston supply portion. The piston supply portion includes a connecting rod gripping unit gripping the connecting rod of the piston placed in a preparation area, a guide member abutting against a skirt portion of the piston to match an axial direction of the piston with a predetermined specified direction, a moving unit moving the gripping unit from the preparation area to a supply position in air, and a pivoting unit making the gripping unit pivot such that the piston top portion of the piston in a downward state is set in an upward state. The piston supply apparatus further includes a pressing unit pressing the piston top portion of the piston made to pivot to the upward state against the guide member. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160031465 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR LOADING - Presented is a method and apparatus for loading. The method includes loading one of an individually sterilized item or a non-sterile item into the cart, the cart comprising a top portion, and a plurality of wheels fixedly coupled to a bottom portion of the cart able to freely rotate and support the cart. The method further includes loading a sterilizing cabinet onto the cart, the sterilizing cabinet being removeably affixed to the cart and comprising an interior, the interior containing collectively sterilized items, the interior being sterilizeable and resealable. | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160031685 | LOAD BEARING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A load-bearing apparatus ( | 02-04-2016 |
| 20160039539 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR AIRCRAFT BOARDING - A passenger boarding procedure is disclosed which eliminates disadvantages associated with conventional techniques. In some embodiments, passengers may be physically arranged in a pre-boarding waiting area largely as they would be seated on the aircraft. When boarding commences, passengers with assigned seats in the row at the back of the plane are allowed to board first. These passengers may board so that those who have been assigned window seats sit down first, followed by those who have been assigned middle seats (if present), followed by those who have been assigned aisle seats (if present). The passengers who have been assigned seats in the next rear-most row may then board the aircraft, sitting down in the same order as those who previously boarded, and this procedure is repeated until all passengers have boarded. Physical articles and other apparatus are disclosed for facilitating the boarding procedure. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160039602 | INTER-MODAL SHIPPING MINI-CONTAINERS AND METHOD OF USING SAME - A mini-container for inter-modal shipping includes panels forming a pair of oppositely disposed side walls, a front wall, a back wall opposite to said front wall, a floor, and a roof. The side, front and back walls may releasably lock to another to form an enclosure and unlock from one another. The panels are positionable between an erected-for-use configuration and a collapsed storage configuration. In the storage configuration, the side, front and back panels are stacked lying flat to form a stack of the panels laying on the base. The stack of panels is overlaid with the roof. The erected mini-containers are sized for space efficient loading of an inter-modal mobile transport conveyor such as an automobile carrier, train, ship or plane. In their storage configuration the mini-containers may be carried on the mobile transport conveyors for later use carrying cargo and may be carried in a stack simultaneously with mini-containers carrying cargo. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160039622 | TRAILER STABILIZER AND LEVELER - A method of leveling a parked freight trailer at a loading dock, the method comprising: (a) positioning a portable stabilizing device at least partially underneath a forward portion of the parked freight trailer; (b) positioning a lift associated with the portable stabilizing device to bear weight of the forward portion of the parked freight trailer; (c) reorienting the parked freight trailer so a floor of the parked freight trailer goes from a substantially non-parallel orientation to an approximately parallel orientation with respect to a floor of the loading dock by repositioning at least one of the jack and a landing gear of the parked freight trailer; and, (e) maintaining the lift in a weight bearing position while goods are at least one of unloaded from or loaded onto the parked freight trailer. | 02-11-2016 |
| 20160052606 | SKIDDING SYSTEM FOR AN OFFSHORE INSTALLATION OR VESSEL - The invention relates to a skidding system for an offshore installation or vessel, such as an offshore wind turbine installation ship, comprising at least one set of rails, and one or more carriages for supporting loads and moving the loads along the rails, e.g. from a storage position to an operating position and/or vice versa. At least one of the carriages is adaptable to different loads. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053613 | A METHOD OF MOVING A COMPONENT OR A MATERIAL TO AND WITHIN A LEVEL OF A SHAFT BORING SYSTEM - A method of moving a component or a material to and within a level of a shaft boring system. The shaft boring system is positioned within a shaft and the method comprises lowering the component or the material inside a cage into the shaft and to a level of the shaft boring system. The method further comprises suspending the component or the material from a transport system within the level of the shaft boring system. In addition, the method comprises moving the component or the material within the level of the shaft boring system using the transport system. The component is a component of the shaft boring system and the material is a material for forming the shaft boring system. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160053740 | Wind Turbine Blade Railroad Transportation System and Method - A system and method for transporting a first and second airfoil using a center railcar coupled to two additional railcars. A pair of root brackets support the root ends of the two airfoils on the two additional cars, aligning the two airfoils over the center car. A lower sling stand on the center railcar has a pair of vertical side members extending upwardly to hang a lower sling that support the first airfoil. An upper sling stand has a base that is supported by the lower sling stand, and also has a pair of upper side members that support an upper sling. The second airfoil is supported by the upper sling. The upper sling stand is fixedly supported on the lower sling stand so as to support the second airfoil above the first airfoil in overlapping fashion. | 02-25-2016 |
| 20160059984 | VARIABLE VOLUME CONTAINERS USEFUL IN PACK-OFF OPERATIONS - Disclosed are container apparatuses that have variable volume capacity, which are useful, for example, as pack-off containers in operations involving manufactured articles. The container apparatuses can have vertically translatable bottom members to adjust volume capacity, and the bottom members can also be rotatable to facilitate the presentation of manufactured articles for removal. The vertically translatable bottom members can be suspended flexible sheet materials, portions of which can be raised or lowered to re-contour the shape of and adjust the volume capacity of the container apparatuses. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160060083 | Shipboard Winch with Computer-Controlled Motor - A winch is employed for deploying a probe to a precise depth within a water column for making and recording physical measurement within such water column. More particularly, the winch rapidly unspools a line from an underway vessel, while maintaining minimal but constant line tension, as a probe, tethered to such line, descends within the water column in a “near” free-fall to a predetermined depth and then stops. The line lacks means for communicating its depth to the winch. The probe achieves a predictable descent behavior, even though it is tethered by a line to a winch onboard an underway vessel of unknown velocity and in variable weather conditions. The predictable descent behavior is achieved by maintaining a minimal constant tension on the line within a narrow range. The descent behavior of a probe in “near” free-fall has sufficient predictability to construct an algorithm to correlate descent time with depth. The predictability is sufficient to reduce the risk of collision between the probe and the water bottom to an acceptable level. | 03-03-2016 |
| 20160067130 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MOVING A HOSPITAL BED OR ANOTHER WHEELED OBJECT - A wheeled object, such as a bed ( | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160069321 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REMOVING AND/OR INSTALLING A ROTOR BLADE OF A WIND TURBINE - The present disclosure is directed to a system and method for lifting and/or removing a rotor blade to and from a wind turbine. In one embodiment, the system includes an up-tower pulley mounted on an up-tower location of the wind turbine, first and second ground winches, a pulley cable from the first ground winch over the up-tower pulley and attached to the rotor blade, a guide line attached between an up-tower location of the wind turbine and the second ground winch, a guide pulley mounted on the guide line, and a guide cable from the guide line over the guide pulley to the rotor blade. Thus, the guide pulley is configured to move along the guide line during lifting and removing of the rotor blade so that the guide cable can control an orientation of the rotor blade relative to the tower during lifting and removing of the rotor blade. | 03-10-2016 |
| 20160075198 | Method for Towing a Heavy Vehicle - A method for towing a heavy vehicle, the method including steps of providing a link having longitudinal and oppositely longitudinal ends, the provided link having a plurality of pleated straps, each pleated strap among the plurality of pleated straps forming a pair of “C” bend series, each “C” bend among the pairs of “C” bend series having a pair of arms, a stem spanning between the pair of arms, and a capture space bounded by the pair of arms and the stem, each of the “C” bend series having an adjacent arm pair series each of whose adjacent arm pairs is received within one of the capture spaces; providing a tractor capable of towing the heavy vehicle; further providing fasteners connected operatively to the link's longitudinal and oppositely longitudinal ends; operating the fasteners to respectively connect the link's longitudinal and oppositely longitudinal ends to the tractor and to the heavy vehicle; and operating the tractor to apply a tensioning force to the link and to tow the heavy vehicle. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160075516 | SYSTEMS, DEVICES AND METHODS FOR RECEIVING AN ITEM - Systems, devices and methods for receiving an item in a receptacle are disclosed. Features are disclosed for receiving and guiding an item in a receiving space of a receptacle so as to attenuate or remove the impact force of the item on the receptacle. Some embodiments of the disclosure include a bumper having an impact surface which absorbs most or all of the impact force of the item and thereby mitigates or removes the imposition of cyclic impact loads on the receptacle from repeated receipt of items. The bumper may be structurally and/or functionally de-coupled or otherwise physically separated from the receptacle such that an advantageous division of labor is created between absorbing the impact and receiving the item. This disclosure may be useful, for example, in modern industrial operations where a high volume of items are received daily, such as in mail sorting and handling operations. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160075539 | PATIENT EVACUATION AND RECOVERY HAULING SYSTEM - An evacuation hauling system for transporting evacuation litters during an emergency. The hauling system includes a drive line forming a pathway between a first station and a second station, and a drive system operable by a drive prime mover to move the drive line between the first and second stations. An evacuation litter is detachably coupled to the drive line and is moveable along the pathway between the first and second stations as the drive line is moved. The hauling system may include a pulley supporting the drive line to maintain a separation between a transport leg of the pathway from the first station to the second station, and a return leg of the pathway from the second station to the first station. | 03-17-2016 |
| 20160081471 | SUPPORTING STRUCTURE AND LOADING-TRANSPORTING METHOD OF STORAGE AND TRANSPORT CONTAINER - A supporting structure ( | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160082587 | Tree Decorating Assistant - A tree decorating assistant apparatus is disclosed for applying ornaments and lighting to a Christmas (or other seasonal) tree and comprising a decoration support element, provided by a replication of animal antlers (or horns); a decorative animal head section to provide support for the lighting support and is consistent with the animal-related lighting support section configuration; and a handle section to control, lift and permit placement of ornaments and string lighting sections at different points on the tree. Further, to provide for assistance in the case of large and/or tall trees, multiple handle extension elements are attachable to the handle section for reaching greater and greater heights. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160083201 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR FITTING INJECTION-MOLDED PARTS - The invention relates to a device for orienting elements, in particular filter elements (F), for fitting injection-molded parts, in particular pipette tips (P), comprising an accommodating container ( | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160083206 | MEDIA CASSETTE LOADER - A media cassette loader is described. The media cassette loader comprises a base; a media loading surface inclined at an angle to the base; and an end wall upstanding from a lower end of the media loading surface. The end wall supports media items stacked on the media loading surface. The media loading surface and the end wall are dimensioned to be accommodated within a media cassette body. This allows the media cassette body to be placed over the media loading surface when stacked with media items so that the cassette body surrounds the stacked media items. | 03-24-2016 |
| 20160107864 | DEVICES AND METHODS FOR HANDLING RADIUS FILLERS - Devices and methods for handling uncured radius fillers are disclosed. The devices, i.e., radius filler transport tools, generally are configured to load a radius filler from above, to index the radius filler to a desired location (e.g., a cavity), and to downwardly unload (e.g., drop) the radius filler at the desired location. Radius filler transport tools comprise at least two trough portions, coupled together to form a trough to carry the radius filler, and a plurality of hanger assemblies configured to transversely span the trough. The radius filler transport tool may have a transport state, where the trough and the hanger assemblies are in closed states, a load state, where the trough is in the closed state and at least one hanger assembly is in an open state, and an unload state, where the trough is in an open state and the hanger assemblies are in closed states. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160108589 | APPARATUS FOR REPOSITIONING TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES - An apparatus for repositioning traffic control devices includes a bracket configured for removable attachment to a vehicle. The apparatus further includes a striker arm attached to the bracket and projecting forward of the bracket at a first end of the striker arm so as to form an acute angle with respect to a direction of travel of the vehicle. | 04-21-2016 |
| 20160114989 | Transport System with Magnetically Driven Transport Elements and Transportation Method - A transport arrangement configured to transport piece goods includes a first transport track, a first carrier which is movable with respect to this first transport track, a second transport track, and preferably a second carrier which is movable with respect to this second transport track. The arrangement further includes at least one first coil arrangement configured to move the first carrier with respect to the first transport track and at least one second coil arrangement configured to move the second carrier with respect to the second transport track. At least one coil arrangement is provided to move at least at times the first carrier with respect to the first transport track and at least at times to move the second carrier with respect to the second transport track. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160115003 | LIFTING APPARATUS AND METHOD OF LIFTING - A collapsible and mobile lifting apparatus. The apparatus includes a mobile base, a lifting mechanism mounted to the mobile base, suspension members extending from the lifting mechanism for operatively engaging an object to be lifted, and a counterweight system that is automatically moveable relative to the mobile base. Helical band actuators provide the lifting force. A lower counterweight at the base is moveable to variable positions in response to the load of an object on the suspension members. An upper counterweight is mounted proximate to the upper end of the lifting mechanism to resist the load on the suspension members as well. A tension cable extending from the base proximate to the upper end of the lifting mechanism provides additional force to balance the load of the object. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160115741 | RIG SKIDDING SYSTEM - A rig skidding method involving raising a rig on jacks, positioning skid tracks comprising low friction plastic underneath the rig, lowering the rig, and skidding the rig along the skid tracks to a new site for rig operations. At the new site, the process is reversed to leave the rig on the ground at the new location. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160118291 | MULTI-WAFER ROTATING DISC REACTOR WITH INERTIAL PLANETARY DRIVE - Wafer carriers and methods for moving wafers in a reactor. The wafer carrier may include a platen with a plurality of compartments and a plurality of wafer platforms. The platen is configured to rotate about a first axis. Each of the wafer platforms is associated with one of the compartments and is configured to rotate about a respective second axis relative to the respective compartment. The platen and the wafer platforms rotate with different angular velocities to create planetary motion therebetween. The method may include rotating a platen about a first axis of rotation. The method further includes rotating each of a plurality of wafer platforms carried on the platen and carrying the wafers about a respective second axis of rotation and with a different angular velocity than the platen to create planetary motion therebetween. | 04-28-2016 |
| 20160129852 | ROTARY CHAIN RACK FOR RECOVERY VEHICLES - A rotary chain rack located on a vehicle used to recover disabled vehicles, which may include a lower bin, one or more upper rotating carousels to which hooks carrying chains may be mounted, and a braking device for automatically stopping the rotation of the chain rack. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160130087 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ACCUMULATION - Method and systems for accumulation are described. In one embodiment, a dispensing station includes a receiving opening, a dispensing opening and a storage area. The dispensing station receives and dispenses a container. A transportable storage system includes multiple partitions disposed on a carrier portion to define multiple carriage sections. The carriage sections are electronically identifiable and selectively hold or eject the container. A bin apparatus for receiving the container includes a movable portion to selectively hold and release the container. A control unit for commanding the bin apparatus to dispense the container to a desired carriage section of the transportable storage system is provided. Additional methods and systems are disclosed. | 05-12-2016 |
| 20160137462 | Cargo Vessel Lid Lifting System - An apparatus including a base, a guide arm pivotable relative to the base, the guide arm movable between a raised position and a lowered position. A tension linkage having a distal end extending away from the base, the tension linkage supported by the guide arm when the arm is in the raised position. A tension linkage guide disposed on the guide arm, the tension linkage guide movable along the tension linkage as the guide arm moves between raised and lowered positions. A lid hook connected to the distal end of the tension linkage. When the lid hook is engaged with a cargo vessel lid, the tension linkage forms a first tension angle and a second tension angle when the guide arm is in the raised position and the lowered position respectively, the second tension angle being less than the first tension angle. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160137463 | ATTACHMENT WITH VACUUM AND GRAB ARMS - An attachment that incorporates a vacuum mechanism along with one or more grab arm assemblies. The vacuum mechanism and each grab arm assembly are configured to hold an object at the same time. In other embodiments, the object can be held solely by the vacuum mechanism or solely by the grab arms. In case of failure of the vacuum mechanism, for example a loss of suction or vacuum power or the vacuum is not properly centered on the object, the grab arm assembly acts as a back-up lifting mechanism to hold the object so that the object is not dropped. In addition, the grab arm assembly permits the attachment to hold the object in orientations, such as vertical, that are not possible using the vacuum mechanism by itself. | 05-19-2016 |
| 20160159623 | FORESTRY WINCH - A winch system | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160161049 | METHOD FOR LATERALLY MOVING INDUSTRIAL MACHINE - A method for laterally moving an industrial machine is provided. The method may include: supporting the industrial machine on a pair of rail elements configured to be positioned laterally below and support the industrial machine, the rail elements allowing the industrial machine to be moved laterally from a first operative position to a second, maintenance position. A pair of linear actuators configured to laterally move the industrial machine from the first, operative position to the second, maintenance position. | 06-09-2016 |
| 20160167430 | Positioning Systems | 06-16-2016 |
| 20160185565 | APPARATUS FOR UNWINDING FLEXIBLE CABLES ON SEABEDS AND METHOD FOR LOADING A REEL OF FLEXIBLE CABLE ON SAID APPARATUS - Apparatus for unwinding flexible cables on seabeds, which comprises a support structure ( | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160185577 | MULTI-PATH HOISTING SYSTEMS - Various hoisting systems using multiple hoisting lines in shared block-and-tackle arrangements are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus includes a hoisting system with multiple hoisting lines wound on a rotatable drum of a drawworks. The hoisting lines are continuous wire ropes that are reeved over a shared crown block and around a shared traveling block in a block-and-tackle arrangement to provide a mechanical advantage. Additional systems, devices, and methods are also disclosed. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160185580 | Lifting System for Lifting a Vehicle and Method for Operating the Lifting System - The invention relates to a lifting system for lifting a load, such as a vehicle, and a method for lifting a load. The lifting system includes: one or more lifting devices; a group controller arranged to operate the lifting devices; and a user interface unit including a transmitter and/or receiver configured for communication with the group controller, a processor, a display device, and input means configuring the user interface unit to receive user input. The user interface unit is adapted to communicate command signals to the group controller on basis of the user input and adapted to receive and display information obtained from the group controller. The lifting system includes a network interface unit including a network transmitter and/or network receiver configured for communication to an external network. | 06-30-2016 |
| 20160194020 | Container system for transporting one or more objects by pulling a rope | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160194041 | Control System for Load Transportation Device | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160194845 | GRIPPER DEVICE AND HOISTING DEVICE FOR A TRASH RAKE CLEANER, TRASH RAKE CLEANER AND METHOD THEREFOR | 07-07-2016 |
| 20160201343 | PANEL LIFTING PROCESS | 07-14-2016 |
| 20160252147 | FLOATING TRAVERSE SYSTEM | 09-01-2016 |
