40th week of 2017 patent applcation highlights part 25 |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20170283019 | Survival Helmet Device - A survival helmet device for use in combination with a survival suit includes a helmet, inhale and exhale control valves, and at least one inflatable air cavity packet secured to the survival suit for selectively controlling the air supply and buoyancy of the survival helmet device and the survival suit. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283020 | REBREATHER CONTROL PARAMETER SYSTEM AND DIVE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A method and apparatus for automatically controlling partial pressure of oxygen in the breathing loop of a rebreather diving system. A diver may adjustably select a control parameter to maintain partial pressure of oxygen at a setpoint that varies with ambient pressure and is within a range between a maximum safe partial pressure of oxygen at depth and a minimum safe partial pressure of oxygen for the purpose of biasing the performance of the rebreather either towards minimizing gas venting from the rebreather breathing loop or minimizing decompression time. A method and apparatus for managing and monitoring the use of dive resources in comparison with a target dive time specified by the diver, calculating and indicating remaining dive time based on dive resource values and calculating and indicating dive resource values required to meet preselected dive resource end values and dive requirements. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283021 | MODIFIED CO2 CYCLE FOR LONG ENDURANCE UNMANNED UNDERWATER VEHICLES AND RESULTANT CHIRP ACOUSTIC CAPABILITY - A carbon dioxide cycle power generation system includes storage collectively storing portions of carbon dioxide liquid and gas and a transfer connection selectively directing flow of the carbon dioxide through a turbine. The system cycles between different seawater depths in order to employ at least one of seawater pressure and seawater temperature in creating the carbon dioxide flow. Inlet/outlet control valves on variable volume tanks, positioned below movable pistons within the respective tank, selectively allow seawater into or out of a lower portion of the respective tank below the piston to pressurize the carbon dioxide therein relative to the carbon dioxide within the other tank when at depth rather than near the surface. Inhibited versus uninhibited heat transfer between storage portions and the seawater allows different seawater temperatures at depth and near the surface to create the carbon dioxide flow. Acoustic communications may be driven concurrent with the turbine. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283022 | Paddle Sail - A portable sail for use with a paddle and paddle board, where one edge of the sail has a fastening portion that is reversibly affixed along the length of the paddle, while the opposite end of the sail is held by the user via a cord or handle. With paddle held upright on the surface of the paddle board with one hand, and controlling the end of the sail with the other hand, a user can capture the wind and propel the paddle board through the water. The rate of propulsion can be adjusted by partially wrapping the sail around the paddle to reduce the sail area exposed to the wind. Furthermore, the sail can be entirely wrapped around the paddle so the paddle can be used to manually propel the paddle board in the traditional manner. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283023 | ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM, METHOD FOR POWERING A CORRESPONDING TASK, PROPULSION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A SHIP - This electrical energy distribution system comprises assembly of electrical energy generators each driven by a heat engine and supplying a distribution network; means for recovering the heat energy generated during the operation of the heat engines and for vaporizing a working fluid; steam turbine driven by the working fluid and associated with a generator connected to the distribution network for converting the recovered heat energy into electrical energy and at least one frequency converter arranged between the distribution network and an electrical load. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283024 | System for Controlling an Electrical Power System - A system for limiting power to a plurality of on-line consumers includes an operating characteristic sensor associated with each of a plurality of prime movers and a controller. The controller is configured to determine a maximum torque capability of each of the plurality of prime movers, determine the available electrical power response of each of the plurality of generators, determine a total available electrical power response, and determine a total maximum power demand. The controller then compares the total available electrical power response to the total maximum power demand, and upon the total maximum power demand exceeding the total available electrical power response, limits power to the plurality of on-line consumers to no more than the total available electrical power response. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283025 | MARINE VESSEL POWER SYSTEM AND METHOD - A power system for a marine vessel comprises an engine and a controllable pitch thruster drivably coupled to the engine. A speed of the controllable pitch thruster various with a speed of the engine. A control unit receives a thrust command value indicating a thrust required from controllable pitch thruster. The control unit determines a current speed of the controllable pitch thruster and calculates a pitch of the controllable pitch thruster that produces thrust in accordance with the thrust command value at the current speed of the controllable pitch thruster. The power system allows for operating the engine at variable speeds to allow for a reduction of the engine speed under partial load conditions. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283026 | Hydraulic steering system for a vehicle - A hydraulic steering system for vehicles includes a steering control member; a hydraulic pump provided with a rotatable driving shaft on which the control member is fitted; a hydraulic actuating cylinder connected with two ports of the pump alternately operating as delivery side and return side of the pump and mechanically connected with a direction changing member, which determines a change in the direction by modifying orientation via an actuating cylinder as a function of the supply of hydraulic fluid to the cylinder from the pump by the steering control member. The driving shaft is dynamically connected with an electric motor/transmission assembly, which is activated alternatively by generating a rotational force auxiliary to the movement manually exerted on the steering control member or opposing the manually exerted movement, or by driving to rotate the driving shaft of the pump in place of the manual action driving the steering control member. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283027 | COLUMN BASED ELECTRIC ASSIST MARINE POWER STEERING - An embodiment of a system for controlling a marine vessel includes an electrical power steering unit coupled to a mechanical control system, the mechanical control system including a steering wheel connected by a shaft to a mechanical cable assembly, the mechanical cable assembly configured to be actuated by the steering wheel to control a steering mechanism of the marine vessel. The electrical power steering unit includes an electric motor configured to apply a torque to the mechanical cable assembly. The system also includes a processor configured to control the electrical power steering unit to provide at least one of steering assist and control of the marine vessel. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283028 | BALLAST WATER TREATMENT OPERATING APPARATUS AND METHOD - A ballast water treatment operating apparatus includes a ballast water treatment unit for performing a certain treatment of ballast water flowing in from the outside for a ballast operation or performing a certain treatment of ballast water discharged into the outside for a de-ballast operation; a positional information receiving unit for receiving positional information; a control unit for confirming a ship's position by using positional information received from the positional information receiving unit and then determining whether to operate the ballast water treatment unit during a ballast operation or during a de-ballast operation, thereby being capable of preventing an unnecessary energy consumption. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283029 | DECOMPRESSION PANEL ASSEMBLY AND METHODS OF MANUFACTURING THE SAME - A decompression panel assembly for use in an aircraft includes a body portion comprising a plurality of frame members defining a plurality of openings in the body portion. The decompression panel assembly also includes a baffle member integrally formed with the plurality of frame members such that the baffle member removably obstructs at least one opening of the plurality of openings. The baffle member is configured for at least partial displacement from the at least one opening during a decompression event. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283030 | ENTRY HANDLE - Embodiments of the present disclosure provide an entry assist system for an aircraft doorway. The system includes a securement member configured to be secured into at least one aperture of the doorway, a handle portion pivotally attached to the securement member, and a releasable locking feature for locking the handle portion. A mounting device is used for securing the stationary member to an existing aperture in the doorway and for removing the entry assist system when no longer needed. The securement member forms a stationary portion along an inner edge of the doorway. The handle portion includes a hub configured for rotating about an axle that is coupled to an interface of the securement member. The hub and interface interconnect to form the releasable locking feature for locking the handle in a collapsed position adjacent the securement member or in an extended position protruding outside the doorway. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283031 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING AND INSTALLING INSULATION BLANKETS IN A VEHICLE COMPARTMENT - Methods and apparatus for forming and installing insulation blankets in a vehicle compartment are disclosed. An example apparatus includes an insulation blanket that includes an outer layer, an insulation layer disposed in the outer layer, and a first fastener disposed in the insulation layer. The outer layer and the insulation layer are to form to a first channel. The first fastener is to receive, via the first channel, a first portion of a vehicle compartment frame to sealingly couple the insulation layer and the outer layer of the insulation blanket to the vehicle compartment frame. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283032 | AIRCRAFT INCLUDING A WING WITH IMPROVED ACOUSTIC TREATMENT - An aircraft having a wing and an aeroengine having a longitudinal main axis M and including a ducted nacelle with at least one fan, the wing including an acoustic treatment surface on a bottom portion of its outer shell on either side of the main longitudinal axis M and over a width L perpendicular to the longitudinal axis M that is not greater than three times the diameter D of the fan, the acoustic treatment surface comprising a layer of porous material for attenuating acoustic waves coming from the fan. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283033 | AIRCRAFT WING SHIFT DEVICE - An aerial vehicle includes a fuselage, a wing, and a wing shift device. The wing shift device is configured to be coupled to the fuselage. The wing shift device comprises a plurality of apertures for coupling the wing to the aerial vehicle. The plurality of apertures are configured to permit the wing to be shifted in a forward or aft direction along the fuselage based on a center of gravity of the aerial vehicle. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283034 | METHODS AND APPARATUS TO CONTROL A GAP BETWEEN MOVABLE AIRCRAFT WING COMPONENTS - Methods and apparatus to control a gap between movable aircraft wing components are disclosed. An example apparatus includes spoiler including a first panel and a second panel, a flexible tip extending from an intersection of the first and second panels; and a rub block coupled to a surface of the second panel, the rub block positioned to engage a flap to maintain a distance between the spoiler and the flap and to enable the flexible tip to perform deform to change aerodynamic properties of the spoiler. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283035 | FOLDABLE WING AND ROTOCRAFT AND GLIDER USING THE SAME - The present invention provides a foldable wing which comprises a wing supporting skeleton, a sliding rail, a skin supporting rib, a skin and a wing movement unit. The wing supporting skeleton comprises a horizontal beam, a longitudinal beam, a wing front edge beam, a wing trailing edge beam, a fixture connector and a sliding block, The wing supporting skeleton is a triangular girder for maintaining planar and sectional shapes of the foldable wing, supporting the skin supporting rib and the skin, and sustaining an aerodynamic load from the skin and a load of a fuselage. After the triangular girder is subjected to a force of the wing movement unit, a shape and an area of the triangular girder are changed so as to achieve folding and unfolding of the foldable wing. A rotocraft and a glider using the foldable wing are also provided. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283036 | PROPELLER PITCH CONTROL SYSTEM - A control system ( | 2017-10-05 |
20170283037 | AIRCRAFT CONTROL COMPRISING AN IMPROVED PEDAL - An aircraft control of the rudder bar type, which includes a box-shaped pedal, a support, a first rotation shaft connecting the pedal to the support with a first rotation axis, a first pivot connection configured to allow the pedal to pivot about the first rotation axis relative to the support, a rod, a second rotation shaft, distinct from the first rotation shaft and connecting the pedal to the rod with a second rotation axis, and a second pivot connection configured so as to allow the pedal and/or the rod to pivot about the second rotation axis. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283038 | AIRCRAFT, TAKEOFF CONTROL METHOD AND SYSTEM, AND LANDING CONTROL METHOD AND SYSTEM - A landing control method includes detecting whether a landing indication signal is received, and controlling an aircraft to automatically land in a pre-set landing mode if the landing indication signal is received. A takeoff control method comprises detecting whether a takeoff indication signal is received, and controlling an aircraft to automatically take off in a pre-set takeoff mode if the takeoff indication signal is received. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283039 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING AIRCRAFT WING FLAP MOTION - A system and method for controlling one or more flaps of a wing of an aircraft include a first flap moveably secured to a first wing of the aircraft. The first flap is moveable between an extended position and a retracted position. First and second actuators are coupled to the first flap. A flap control unit is in communication with the first and second actuators. The flap control unit is configured to operate the first and second actuators to move the first flap between retracted and extended positions, monitor a first electrical signal provided to the first actuator, monitor a second electrical signal provided to the second actuator, and determine that the first and second actuators are synchronized by monitoring the first and second electrical signals. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283040 | FORCE FIGHT MITIGATION - A force fight mitigation system comprising: control means configured to provide a position command to each of two or more actuators arranged to position a surface, the position command indicative of a desired position of the actuator relative to the surface; means to detect the actual position of the actuator relative to the surface in response to the position command; and means to determine an offset between the desired position and the actual position and to store a rigging correction based on the offset; wherein, for each actuator, an offset is determined for each of three or more desired positions. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283041 | AIRCRAFT - The present invention relates to an aircraft having at least one flap arranged at the wing of the aircraft and having at least one first drive unit for actuating the flap as a landing flap and a first control unit for controlling the first drive unit when the aircraft is in a landing mode of operation, wherein the aircraft comprises at least one second drive unit which is an active differential gear box for actuating the flap as an aileron and a second control unit for controlling the second drive unit when the aircraft performs an aileron function. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283042 | WEIGHT-SHIFTING COAXIAL HELICOPTER - A helicopter includes a propulsion system, gimbal assembly, and a controller. The propulsion system includes a first rotor assembly and a second rotor assembly. The first rotor assembly comprises a first motor coupled to a first rotor and the second rotor assembly comprises a second motor coupled to a second rotor. The second rotor is coaxial to the first rotor and is configured to be counter-rotating to the first rotor. The gimbal assembly couples a fuselage of the helicopter to the propulsion system. The controller is communicably coupled to the gimbal assembly and is configured to provide instructions to the gimbal assembly in order to weight-shift the fuselage of the helicopter, thereby controlling movements of the helicopter. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283043 | ACTUATOR ASSEMBLY - An actuator assembly is capable of manipulating a fluid flowing around a flow body, the fluid being received or able to be received in a volume of at least one cavity arranged in the flow body, and the fluid passing through at least one opening in the at least one cavity during manipulation of the fluid. In this process, the volume of the at least one cavity can be changed by moving a wall portion delimiting or defining the cavity. The actuator assembly has a drive unit with at least one actuator, which executes a periodic movement over time when actuated, causing a translational movement of the wall portion delimiting or defining the cavity and the wall portion being shaped in terms the topology thereof in such a way that it is adapted to the shape of the at least one cavity with the at least one opening thereof. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283044 | DAMAGE ADAPTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL - A method of operating a vibration control system (VCS) using a single actuator which operates to attenuate a system frequency of a system is provided. The method includes determining whether current vibrations at a non-system frequency exceed a predefined level, determining a system response to compensate for the current vibrations exceeding the predefined level and adjusting the force response of the single actuator to respond to a system frequency and the non-system frequency according to the determined system response toward compensating for the current vibrations. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283045 | TRANSLATION THRUST SYSTEM ENGAGEMENT AND DISENGAGMENT FOR ROTARY WING AIRCRAFT - An aircraft is provided including an airframe, an extending tail, one or more engines supported by the airframe, and a counter rotating, coaxial main rotor assembly including an upper rotor assembly and a lower rotor assembly. A translational thrust system positioned at the extending tail. The translational thrust system providing translational thrust to the airframe. A gearbox configured to transfer power from the engine to the main rotor assembly. A flight control computer to independently control one or more of the engine, the upper rotor assembly, the lower rotor assembly, and the translational thrust system. The flight control computer, in response to at least one control command, engages or disengages the translational thrust system, while maintaining controlled powered flight. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283046 | SEALED HUB AND SHAFT FAIRING FOR ROTARY WING AIRCRAFT - An aircraft includes an airframe; an extending tail; a counter rotating, coaxial main rotor assembly including an upper rotor assembly and a lower rotor assembly; a translational thrust system positioned at the extending tail, the translational thrust system providing translational thrust to the airframe; an upper hub fairing positioned at the upper rotor assembly; a lower hub fairing positioned at the lower rotor assembly; and a shaft fairing disposed between the upper hub fairing and the lower hub fairing; wherein a geometry of at least one of the upper hub fairing and the lower hub fairing progressively blends from a circle to a series of curved elliptical surfaces in an inboard direction. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283047 | MAIN ROTOR ROTATIONAL SPEED CONTROL FOR ROTORCRAFT - An aircraft includes an airframe having an extending tail, a counter rotating, coaxial main rotor assembly disposed at the airframe including an upper rotor assembly and a lower rotor assembly and a translational thrust system positioned at the extending tail and providing translational thrust to the airframe. A flight control computer is configured to control a main rotor rotational speed of the upper and the lower rotor assemblies of the main rotor assembly as a function of airspeed of the aircraft. A method of operating an aircraft includes retrieving a threshold main rotor rotational speed of the dual coaxial main rotor assembly and calculating an actual main rotor rotational speed according to an environment of the aircraft. The actual main rotor rotational speed is maintained to remain at or below the threshold main rotor speed according to an airspeed of the aircraft. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283048 | CONVERTABLE LIFTING PROPELLER FOR UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE - Described is a configuration of an unmanned aerial vehicle (“UAV”) that includes one or more lifting propellers that may be converted between an operational configuration and a transit configuration. When the lifting propeller is in a operational configuration, the leading edge of each propeller blade is aligned in the direction of rotation so that the lifting propeller will generate a positive lifting force when rotated by a lifting motor. When the lifting propeller is in the transit configuration, the leading edge of each of the propeller blades are oriented toward a direction of a transit flight of the aerial vehicle. Likewise, the lifting propeller is maintained in a fixed position during the transit flight so that airflow passing over the propeller blades of the lifting propeller cause vertical lift. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283049 | DIFFERENTIAL PRE-CONE ROTARY WING ARRANGEMENT AND AIRCRAFT - A differential pre-cone rotary wing arrangement includes a first rotor assembly having a first set of rotor blades rotatable about an axis, the first set of rotor blades having a first pre-cone angle, and a second rotor assembly having a second set of rotor blades rotatable about the axis, the second set of rotor blades having a second pre-cone angle, the second pre-cone angle is different than the first pre-cone angle. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283050 | UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE - An unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is provided, which includes a main body; a plurality of frames each extending from the main body; and a plurality of thrust generating devices respectively mounted on the plurality of frames, each of the thrust generating devices including a propeller. The propeller includes a hub that provides a rotation axis of the propeller, and rotates according to an operation of the thrust generating device, and a pair of blades, each of which is pivotably mounted on the hub, and generates a thrust or lift while rotating around the rotation axis as the hub is rotated. The blades are pivotably interlocked with each other such that the blades are aligned to a folded position in which the blades are parallel with each other on the hub in a first arrangement or aligned to an expanded position in a diametric direction of a rotating region of the propeller in a second arrangement. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283051 | METHOD OF MANUFACTURING A CONTROL CUFF FOR A ROTOR BLADE OF A HINGE AND BEARINGLESS ROTOR - A method of manufacturing a control cuff for a rotor blade of a hinge and bearingless rotor. The method comprises at least the steps of: manufacturing an outer shell, manufacturing a stiffener member by means of an automated process, inserting the stiffener member into the outer shell, and bonding the stiffener member to the outer shell. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283052 | ROTATING WING ASSEMBLIES FOR TAILSITTER AIRCRAFT - A tailsitter aircraft includes one or more rotatable wings. The tailsitter aircraft optionally includes a fuselage from which wing supports extend. Each rotatable wing optionally includes a rotatable wing section having an inboard portion proximate to the fuselage, and an outboard portion distal from the fuselage. The rotatable wing section may be rotatably attached to the wing support and configured to rotate between a vertical flight configuration in which the inboard portion is positioned on an opposing side of the wing support relative to the outboard portion, and a horizontal flight configuration different from the vertical flight configuration. The wings may be rotated during flight to transition between horizontal and vertical flight configurations, and they may be rotated about multiple axes. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283053 | UNINHABITED AERIAL VEHICLE, UNINHABITED AERIAL VEHICLA CONTROL SYSTEM, AND UNINHABITED AERIAL VEHICLE CONTROL METHOD - An uninhabited aerial vehicle includes: a calculator that calculates position information indicating a position and an altitude of the vehicle; an image capturing unit that captures an image; a lightning rod; a controller that controls the position and altitude of the vehicle; and a communicator which performs information communication, wherein the calculator transmits the position information to the communicator, the image capturing unit calculates a position of an object to be protected against a thunderbolt from the image, and transmits the calculated position to the communicator, the communicator transmits the position information received from the calculator and the position of the object received from the image capturing unit to the outside, and receives flight instruction information, and the controller controls the position and the altitude of the vehicle based on received flight instruction information of the received flight instruction information. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283054 | UNMANNED SPATIAL VEHICLE PERFORMANCE - A system and method for participating in a multi-USV performance in three-dimensional space. The USV can include: a location identification system operable to provide location coordinates, a guidance system operable to guide the USV toward target waypoints, a propulsion system operable to propel the USV, a power supply operable to provide power to components of the USV, and an exoskeleton surrounding the location identification system, the guidance system, the propulsion system, and the power supply, the exoskeleton including a set of sensory devices, and at least one latching mechanism operable to facilitate a docking operation with a proximate USV. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283055 | LIFT CELL MODULES AND LIFT PODS - A lift cell module is disclosed having a housing with an air inlet, an air outlet and an air duct connecting them, the housing having a generally circular inner wall having an axis and the inner wall being mounted for rotation about the axis. A plurality of radially disposed lift cells including winglets having opposed ends are connected to the inner wall, each of the winglets being vertically spaced and extending parallel to one another. The lift cell module further including a member connected to the housing for applying a motive force to rotate the inner wall. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283056 | RETURN DEVICE FOR RETRACTING A MOVABLE ATTACHMENT DEVICE, AND AN AIRCRAFT FITTED WITH SUCH A RETURN DEVICE - A return device for retracting an attachment device of an aircraft. The attachment device is movable between a retracted storage position and a deployed working position, the return device tending to place the attachment device in the retracted storage position in the absence of an external load, while allowing the attachment device to move towards the deployed working position in the presence of an external load. The return device comprises resilient return means for exerting a traction return force on the attachment device and automatically bringing the attachment device into the retracted storage position; a force-reduction member for reducing the traction return force exerted by the resilient return means on the attachment device; and a line element having a first free end secured to the attachment device and a second free end secured to the force-reduction member. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283057 | APPARATUSES AND METHODS FOR RECEIVING AERIAL VEHICLE DELIVERY - Systems, apparatuses, and methods are provided herein for receiving aerial vehicle delivery. An apparatus for receiving aerial vehicle delivery comprises a receiving pad configured to receive a package released by an aerial vehicle; one or more accessory couplers attached to the receiving pad and configured to allow a receiving pad accessory to couple to and uncouple from the receiving pad; and a wall portion surrounding at least a portion of the receiving pad, the wall portion being removably coupled to the receiving pad via an accessory coupler. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283058 | HINGE FOR ENLARGING THE VOLUME OF AN AIRCRAFT STORAGE BIN - In a preferred embodiment, a retrofit storage bin door hinge includes an extension member than increases the storage volume of the bin by at least 5 percent or 10 percent, thereby permitting the storage of larger carry-on bags. Required access to the ceiling panels during maintenance operations is preserved by the hinges pivotable attachment to a pivot mount attached to the ceiling of a storage bin. In this manner, the hinge assembly and door may be readily translated downwardly to provide full access to the ceiling panels during a maintenance operation. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283059 | Aircraft Monument - In a preferred embodiment, an aircraft monument is adapted for being mounted against an aft-facing bulkhead of the aircraft. The monument may have an aisle-accessible compartment that includes comestible item dispensers and lower footwell regions to accommodate the passengers seated immediately aft of the monument. The monument may also include an aft-facing wall that is readily removal during a maintenance operation so as to facilitate servicing of a heater or chiller unit disposed inside the monument. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283060 | CONTOURED CLASS DIVIDER - A contoured class divider for dividing an aircraft cabin according to a predetermined class arrangement and including a divider panel having a contour closely matching a contour of a forward-positioned seatback, and adapted for being positioned in closely spaced-apart relation to the seatback for providing additional space aft of the divider panel. At least one leg is provided for supporting the panel on an aircraft cabin deck. A viewing window is formed in the panel for providing the ability of a flight attendant to observe areas of the cabin. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283061 | CONTOURED CLASS DIVIDER - In a preferred embodiment, a contoured class divider for dividing an aircraft cabin includes a panel positioned between an aft seat and a forward seat, the panel having an aft-facing convex contour closely matching an aft-facing contour of a seatback of the forward seat and configured to enhance space utilization. The contoured class divider may include an articulation system to articulate at least a portion of the panel from a first position (normal operation) to a second position (emergency landing). The contoured class divider may provide up to an additional 12 inches of space which can be used to reduce seat pitch (and thereby enhance passenger comfort) or increase the number of rows of seats on a given aircraft. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283062 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CLEANING A LAVATORY FLOOR - A system includes a dry floor assembly that is configured to be located within an interior space. The dry floor assembly includes a vacuum layer. A vacuum system is coupled to the vacuum layer. The vacuum system is configured to remove liquid from the dry floor assembly via the vacuum layer. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283063 | Amenity Monument for Aircraft Cabins - Preferred embodiments relate to an amenity monument installed in the middle of a cabin space that absorbs “dead-space” in a seating layout while simultaneously providing features and amenities that are desirable to passengers. In preferred embodiments, this may substantially enhance the array of seating options and configurations available to an aircraft interior designer. In certain embodiments, the amenity monument may be equipped with dimmable panels that are set to a transparent condition during taxi, take-off and landing. During flight, the dimmable panels may be set to a translucent or opaque condition that provides privacy for the passenger utilizing the amenity monument as well as passengers seated nearby. In some embodiments, the monuments may provide enhanced amenities like curved, surround-view screens and which display gaming, advertising, multimedia and/or retail content. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283064 | PASSENGER SEATING WITH MULTI-MODE PRIVACY DOOR - Passenger seating comprises rows of seats with a door assembly at the end of each row for improving a seat occupant's privacy. The door assembly includes a door that slides into and out of a base in a primary mode of operation, and which supports a secondary mode of opening. The secondary mode may involve pivoting on hinges. A latch is provided to prevent the door from being opened routinely in the secondary mode. The door assembly is also capable of retracting with respect to the adjacent seat to improve access. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283065 | Aircraft Interior Surface and Method of Illuminating an Aircraft Interior Surface - An aircraft interior surface for partitioning, dividing, or establishing privacy within a cabin space includes a transparent material that provides for transmission of light within the aircraft cabin. A graphical design may be applied to the transparent material, the graphical design including indicia arranged in predetermined patterns based on a location or function of the transparent material. A light source located proximate to the transparent material may wash light across a surface of the transparent material such that the graphical design exhibits predetermined properties when illuminated by the light source. The transparent material may be selectively dimmable to increase opacity. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283066 | RECEIVING SYSTEM FOR RECEIVING PERSONS AND OBJECTS FOR A CABIN OF A VEHICLE AS WELL AS AN AIRCRAFT EQUIPPED THEREWITH - A receiving system for receiving of persons and objects for a cabin of a vehicle is proposed, the system comprising a seat frame having a plurality of receiving sections created on the seat frame for receiving of a seat unit each; a plurality of seat units, which are mountable on a receiving section each; and at least one stowage bin unit, which is mountable on one of the receiving sections. The stowage bin unit is dimensioned such that it is mountable on an outer one of the receiving sections in case on the remaining receiving sections a seat unit each is mounted. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283067 | Tray Table Deployable from Lower Seatback Area - In an illustrative embodiment, a tray table for mounting to a lower seatback region of an aircraft passenger seat includes a tray table support bracket stowable to a position approximately parallel with the lower seatback region, and pivotably deployable to provide access to a tray table slideably coupled to the support bracket and configured to provide a substantially horizontal work surface when in a deployed state. In the stowed position, the tray table may be substantially positioned below a tray table deployment height such that additional clearance is provided on the seatback above the tray table for one or more accessory items such as a larger monitor in portrait orientation. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283068 | WIRELESS CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR AIRCRAFT SEATING SYSTEMS - In an illustrative embodiment, electromechanical actuation systems and methods for use in an aircraft passenger suite include aircraft suite actuators for allowing passenger-initiated adjustment of a passenger seat and other suite components, a LRU coupled to each of actuators including control circuitry for controlling actuation of a given actuator in response to a passenger-initiated adjustment request, and wireless communication circuitry configured to: initiate communication links with LRUs creating a communication network, establish master/slave relationships with LRUs, and communicate actuation commands via the communication network. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283069 | Cushion Assembly - A cushion assembly has first and second foam layers that are fixedly connected to each other so as to be contiguous. The cushion assembly also includes a fire-retardant covering and finds particular use as the seat base of a vehicle seat, especially an aircraft seat. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283070 | Seat Back for Vehicle - A seat back assembly for a vehicle such as an automobile or an aircraft includes a foam support structure. The foam support structure panel is configured to provide a support structure against which the upper body and/or back of a user rests in use. The foam structure may include two or more regions having different foam density and/or firmness. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283071 | SEATING SUSPENSION DIAPHRAGM HAVING INTEGRATED SLIDE-IN ATTACHMENT MEANS - A method of upholstering a seat having a seating frame, and a corresponding attachment assembly, comprises providing a diaphragm generally having a weave of warp and weft yarns with an attachment member for installation of the diaphragm to the seat. The attachment member comprises an adapter strip and a coil member. The coil member is adapted to be intertwined with the weave of the diaphragm and thereafter inserted into and held by the channel in the seating frame. The adapter strip may be connected to the coil member to facilitate feeding the assembly through the channel in the seating frame. Alternately, the adapter strip can replace the channel in the seating frame and instead provide a mounting structure to which the diaphragm can be attached through the coil member's engagement with the adapter strip. A retainer sheet may also be used to maintain a desired tension of the diaphragm during installation. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283072 | CONTOURED STOWABLE SEAT - A contoured stowable seat is provided. The contoured stowable seat may comprise a housing, a seat pan, a contoured backrest, and a deployment lever. The contoured stowable seat may be configured to be in a stowed position and a deployed position. In response to the seat pan being in the deployed position, the deployment lever may contact the contoured backrest, causing the contoured backrest to deploy and form into a contoured shape. The contoured stowable seat may also further comprise a tension cord and a headrest. The contoured backrest may also further comprise a cushion located on the outer surface of the contoured backrest. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283073 | INTEGRATED AIRCRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL AND BUFFER SYSTEM - An environmental control system for an aircraft includes a higher pressure tap to be associated with a higher compression location in a main compressor section associated with an aircraft engine, and a lower pressure tap to be associated with a lower pressure location in the main compressor section associated with the aircraft engine. The lower pressure location being at a lower pressure than the higher pressure location. The lower pressure tap communicates to a first passage leading to a downstream outlet, and having a second passage leading into a compressor section of a turbocompressor. The higher pressure tap leads into a turbine section of the turbocompressor such that air in the higher pressure tap drives the turbine section to in turn drive the compressor section of the turbocompressor. A turbine outlet receives airflow exhausted from the turbine section. A compressor outlet receives airflow exhausted from the compressor section. A combined outlet receives airflow from the turbine outlet and the compressor outlet intermixing airflow and passing the mixed airflow downstream to be delivered to an aircraft. A diverter valve controls airflow from the turbine outlet into the combined outlet for controlling a temperature of airflow in the combined outlet. A gas turbine engine is also disclosed. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283074 | AIRCRAFT AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM INCLUDING A THERMOELECTRIC DEVICE - A environmental control system (ECS) for an aircraft includes a primary heat exchanger configured to receive bleed air from a turbine compressor of the aircraft and a secondary heat exchanger having an input configured to receive a flow from the primary heat exchanger and a secondary heat exchanger output. The ECS also includes a thermoelectric condensing device having an input in fluid communication with the output of the secondary heat exchanger and also having a thermoelectric condensing device output. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283075 | Air Treatment Module - In an illustrative embodiment, an apparatus for treating air discharged to a passenger suite of an aircraft includes an enclosure that houses components for treating air passing through the enclosure and a detachable cover connected to the enclosure that provides access to the components. Air treatment components associated with air treatment flow paths within the enclosure include a blower with a fan that draws air through an air intake on the enclosure. An air duct is affixed to a discharge of the blower and directs the air discharged from the blower through an air treatment flow path that includes a scented cartridge with a scented medium that is absorbed into the air passing through the air duct. An air exhaust port is attached at a discharge end of the air duct that discharges the air conditioned by the scented cartridge through an air exhaust vent on the enclosure. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283076 | ARRANGEMENTS AND METHODS FOR SUPPLYING HEATED AIR TO A WING ANTI-ICING SYSTEM - An arrangement for supplying heated air to a wing anti-icing system on an aircraft propelled by a jet engine includes, but is not limited to, an ejector that is configured for coupling to a wing anti-icing system. The ejector is further configured to receive a first flow of air, to entrain a second flow of air with the first flow of air, the second flow of air having a lower temperature than the first flow of air, to mix the first flow of air with the second flow of air to form a combined flow having a temperature and a volume suitable for use by the wing anti-icing system, and to exhaust the combined flow into the wing anti-icing system. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283077 | PNEUMATIC DE-ICER WITH SENSOR FOR SUPERCOOLED LARGE DROPLET ICING DETECTION - A de-icing assembly includes an aircraft with an airfoil. A de-icer is disposed on a leading edge of the airfoil. A tab extends from the de-icer in an aft direction from an aft edge of the de-icer. The de-icer and the tab are adhesively attached onto an outer skin of the airfoil. A supercooled large droplet sensor is built into the tab. The supercooled large droplet sensor is positioned in a location aft of the aft edge of the de-icer. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283078 | ICING DETECTION SYSTEMS - A system for detecting icing includes an optical sensor configured to view at least a portion of an exterior surface or component of an aircraft and to output sensor data indicating at least one optical quality of the exterior surface or component, and an icing detection module. The icing detection module is configured to receive the sensor data from the optical sensor, compare the sensor data to predetermined quality data indicating at least one known optical quality of the exterior surface or component without icing, and determine the presence of icing on the exterior surface or component based on a difference between the sensor data and the predetermined quality data. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283079 | Pretensioner for Retractable Shoulder Belt and Seat Belt - In an illustrative embodiment, a seat is oriented at an oblique angle with respect to a centerline of an aircraft fuselage, the seat having an Aircraft Passenger Restraint System (APRS) with a pre-tensioner and integral retractable shoulder and seat belt webbing. In an illustrative example, the ARPS may be a three-point restraint to control a seat occupant's upper body, head and torso area. In some embodiments, the ARPS may further control the forces on the lower spine and torso. In some applications, the ARPS may operate to control the Head Injury Criteria (HIC) levels for the seat occupant's head, as well as the neck twist and upper spinal forces, to meet aircraft certification requirements imposed by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and/or European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). In response to a deceleration event, the ARPS may rapidly retract the belt webbing to substantially remove slack. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283080 | WINGLET EJECTOR CONFIGURATIONS - An ejector system for propelling a vehicle. The system includes a diffusing structure and a duct coupled to the diffusing structure. The duct includes a wall having openings formed therethrough and configured to introduce to the diffusing structure a primary fluid produced by the vehicle. An airfoil is positioned within the flow of the primary fluid through the openings to the diffusing structure. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283081 | SECURING A TRANSLATING FANLET FOR AN AIRCRAFT PROPULSION SYSTEM NACELLE - A nacelle includes a stationary support, a forward nacelle structure, a latch assembly and an aft nacelle structure. The stationary support extends circumferentially about an axial centerline. The forward nacelle structure is configured to translate axially along the centerline between an aft stowed position and a forward deployed position. The latch assembly is configured to secure an aft end portion of the forward nacelle structure to the stationary support where the forward nacelle structure is in the aft stowed position. The aft nacelle structure is configured to translate axially along the centerline between a forward stowed position and an aft deployed position. A forward end portion of the aft nacelle structure axially covers the aft end portion of the forward nacelle structure and the latch assembly where the forward nacelle structure is in the aft stowed position and the aft nacelle structure is in the forward stowed position. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283082 | ACOUSTIC PANEL FOR AIRCRAFT NACELLE, AND METHOD OF MANUFACTURING THE ACOUSTIC PANEL - An acoustic panel for an aircraft nacelle includes a cellular layer configured to trap noise, a backplate fixed to one surface of the cellular layer and a facesheet fixed to another, opposite, surface of the cellular layer. The facesheet includes a layer of a preimpregnated woven material containing weft yarns spaced apart from one another and warp yarns spaced apart from one another so that the facesheet exhibits openings between the yarns. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283083 | SYSTEM, APPARATUS, AND METHOD OF PREVENTING FUEL TANK EXPLOSION - According to an exemplary embodiment, an inerting and pressurization system for a fuel tank may be provided. The inerting and pressurization systemmay include an inert gas supply network, a number of valves and a number of air separator modules. The inerting and pressurization system may further include a programmable controller that may automatically increase the proportion of inert gas in the inert gas supply network. According to a second exemplary embodiment, a fire extinguishing system may include a number of air-separation modules that may supply an inert gas to a supply network and a programmable controller that may be operatively connected with the inert gas supply network to control how the inert gas outputs may be distributed in response to a fire threat signal. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283084 | SENSOR DATA PROCESSING FOR CONDITION MONITORING SYSTEMS - A sensor system and method includes first and second sensing elements, a digital sensors, a host computer and a digital bus. The first sensing element is configured to collect first sensor data and the second sensing element is configured to collect second sensor data. The digital sensor includes a controller that is configured to receive the first and second sensor data and process the first sensor data together with the second sensor data to generate processed data. The host computer is configured to receive the processed data from the digital sensor over the digital bus. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283085 | ON-BOARD STRUCTURAL LOAD ASSESSMENT OF AN AIRCRAFT DURING FLIGHT EVENTS - A system is provided for structural load assessment of an aircraft. An approximator may receive parameters related to a ground or flight event and calculate the resulting response load on the aircraft using a machine learning algorithm and a structural dynamics model of the aircraft. An analysis engine may compare the calculated response load to a corresponding design load for determining the structural severity of the ground or flight event on the aircraft. A maintenance engine may then automatically perform or trigger a maintenance activity for the aircraft in instances in which the structural severity of the ground or flight event causes a limit exceedance state of the aircraft or at least one structural element thereof. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283086 | Aircraft Passenger Activity Monitoring - In an illustrative embodiment, a crew information system is coupled to sensors in passenger seats, seatbelts, tray tables and overhead bins. If the vehicle seat sensor subsystem senses a passenger on a seat and senses the corresponding passenger seat belt is unbuckled, the vehicle seat sensor subsystem may alert the flight crew of a non-compliance condition. The crew information system may also, for example, facilitate preparation for take-off by signaling the crew when, for all seats in which passengers are detected, all tray tables are stowed and all seatbelts are buckled. The crew may be similarly informed of overhead bins which are not properly latched. Crew member notifications may advantageously report the specific nonconforming issue and seat or bin position. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283087 | SENSOR-BASED DETECTION OF LANDING ZONES - A method of detecting a landing zone includes scanning an area using a sensor system to obtain data of the area. One or more markings are identified from the data. The one or more markings are verified as corresponding to an intended landing zone. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283088 | CONTROL DEVICE, CONTROL METHOD, AND FLIGHT VEHICLE DEVICE - [Object] To provide a control device which enables a flight vehicle device to obtain a highly precise image. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283089 | Apparatus, System, and Method for Moving an Aircraft - An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for moving an aircraft. The apparatus includes an elongated support frame, at least one tug wheel and a loading platform. The elongate support frame includes a wheel receiving recess shaped to receive a wheel of an aircraft. The tug wheel(s) support the elongated support frame. The loading platform is positioned within the wheel receiving space and is configured to support the aircraft wheel. The loading platform is positioned at a height relative to the elongated support frame that is sufficient to avoid interference between a propeller on the aircraft and the elongated support frame when the aircraft wheel is positioned on the loading platform. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283090 | UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE BATTERY SWAPPING SYSTEM - The present disclosure is directed toward systems and methods for swapping a battery assembly between an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and an unmanned aerial vehicle ground station (UAVGS). In particular, systems and methods described herein enable a battery swapping assembly to remove a battery assembly from within the UAV and store the battery assembly within a plurality of battery banks that are linearly arranged within the UAVGS. For example, the battery arm can move along an axis of movement relative to the battery banks to conveniently transfer one or more battery assemblies between the UAV and the battery banks within the UAVGS. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283091 | LUGGAGE PROCESSING STATION AND SYSTEM THEREOF - A processing station for registering a piece of passenger's luggage for a trip, wherein the processing station comprises: an injector for receiving the piece of luggage associated with the passenger; at least one sensor associated with the injector, the at least one sensor, in combination with at least the floor of the injector, creating a zone around the piece of luggage; and a controller associated with the sensor being adapted to: monitor, via the at least one sensor, intrusions through the zone to determine one or more of whether a predetermined limit on dimensions of the piece of luggage has been exceeded or whether a foreign object has intruded the zone from outside, and allow further processing of the piece of luggage only if no intrusion of the zone is detected; and wherein the controller adjusts the area of the zone to accommodate different sizes of luggage. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283092 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CLEANING INTERIOR PORTIONS OF A VEHICLE - A vehicle includes an internal cabin, and an autonomous cleaning system located within an interior chamber of the internal cabin. The autonomous cleaning system includes a cleaning robot configured to clean a portion of the interior chamber. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283093 | EMISSION-CAPTURING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR CAPTURING EMISSIONS FROM AN EJECTION PORT - An emission-capturing apparatus includes a tank having an inlet and an outlet. The apparatus further includes a muffler fluidly coupled with the outlet to intercept fluid exiting the outlet, permit passage of gas through the muffler, and inhibit passage of liquid through the muffler. The apparatus further includes a hose having a tank end and a coupler end. The tank end is coupled to the inlet. The apparatus further includes a coupler coupled to the coupler end of the hose. The coupler has a drain hole. The coupler is configured to be coupled to a surface having an ejection port, to completely cover the ejection port when the coupler is coupled to the surface and to support the coupler end of the hose in a position to receive an emission when the drain hole is aligned with the ejection port. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283094 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR SATELLITE ORBIT AND MOMENTUM CONTROL - Systems and methods for satellite orbit and momentum control are disclosed herein. An example spacecraft includes a first arm having a first end pivotably coupled to the spacecraft and a second end. The example spacecraft includes a first thruster rotatably coupled to the second end of the first arm. The first arm is to selectively pivot about the spacecraft to position the first thruster to generate a change in velocity of the spacecraft to maintain the spacecraft within an orbit station. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283095 | SATELLITE WITH INTEGRAL THRUSTERS - A satellite has thrusters that are integral parts of its frame. The frame defines cavities therein where thrusters are located. The thrusters may include an electrically-operated propellant and electrodes to activate combustion in the electrically-operated propellant. The frame may be additively manufactured, and the propellant and/or the electrodes may also be additively manufactured, with the frame and the propellant and/or the electrodes also being manufactured in a single process. In addition the thrusters may have nozzle portions through which combustion gases exit the thrusters. The thrusters may be located at corners and/or along edges of the frame, and may be used to accomplish any of a variety of maneuvers for the satellite. The satellite may be a small satellite, such as a CubeSat satellite, for instance having a volume of about 1 liter, and a mass of no more than about 1.33 kg. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283096 | LIQUID STORAGE TANKS AND SYSTEMS AND PROPULSION SYSTEMS FOR SPACE VEHICLES AND RELATED METHODS - Liquid storage systems for space vehicles include at least one storage tank including a tank inlet, a tank outlet, and a plurality of liquid storage compartments coupled to each other in series between the tank inlet and the tank outlet. Each liquid storage compartment includes an end plate including a porous outlet at an end of the liquid storage compartment adjacent to another liquid storage compartment. Propulsion systems for space vehicles include at least one such liquid storage tank. Methods of providing a liquid propellant to a thruster of a space vehicle include withdrawing a liquid propellant from a first compartment within a tank and flowing the liquid propellant from a second compartment into the first compartment through a porous element associated with an end plate separating the first compartment from the second compartment. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283097 | PRINTED SPACECRAFT SEPARATION SYSTEM - A spacecraft coupling system includes a locking component that can be deformed and placed into a stable state that locks one component into a mating component, and can easily be released from the deformed state, decoupling the two components. The locking component may include a central ring, a plurality of leaf elements arranged at the perimeter of the locking component, and a plurality of fins that extend outward from the ring to the plurality of leaf elements. A rotation of the ring element while the component is held stationary causes the fins to urge the leaf elements toward the receiving surface areas and to subsequently tension the leaf elements against surfaces on the mating component. To reduce cost and complexity, the locking component comprises a metal, such as titanium, that can be formed using an additive manufacturing process, commonly termed a 3-D printing process. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283098 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR A PRODUCT SETTLER - A method and apparatus for settling a product in a package made on a form, fill and seal machine. In one aspect the invention comprises the steps: providing a package material on a product conduit of a form, fill and seal machine; forming a first end seal on the package material to form a partially formed package; filling the partially formed package with product; and settling the product in the partially formed package while continuously conveying the package material along the product conduit. In a second aspect, the invention comprises a product settler comprising a first object positioned to cause an impact against a package material. The impact agitates the package material and settles a product from an unsettled height to a settled height while the package material is continuously conveyed. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283099 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FILLING CONTAINERS WITH FLUIDS - In a method embodiment, an example method includes attaching a balloon-filling apparatus to a water supply. The apparatus includes a fitting comprising an inlet and at least four outlets. The apparatus further includes at least four branch assemblies coupled to the fitting. Each branch assembly includes: a tube extending from the fitting at a respective one of the at least four outlets; a balloon comprising a neck disposed around an end of the tube; and a fastener attaching the neck of the balloon to the end of the tube and configured to automatically seal the balloon upon detachment of the balloon from the tube. The method further includes simultaneously providing water from the attached water supply to the balloons of the balloon-filling apparatus. The method also includes detaching one or more of the balloons of the balloon-filling apparatus using a force. The force is generated at least in part by one or more of: gravity of the balloons and the water contained therein; and an upward acceleration manually applied to the balloon-filling apparatus. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283100 | METHODS OF PACKAGING PRODUCTS AND PACKAGING ARRANGEMENTS USING A SHRINKABLE PROTECTIVE COVER TO KEEP A GRAPHIC ON A BAND FORMED, INTACT, AND VISIBLE - A method of packaging products and a packaging arrangement. A first product unit is wrapped at least in a first protective cover. The first protective cover envelops the first product unit and creates a first wrapped first product unit. A second product is wrapped at least in a second protective cover, such that the second protective cover envelops the second product unit and creates a second wrapped second product unit. The first wrapped first product unit is arranged adjacent to the second wrapped second product unit to create a product unit arrangement. A band is formed circumferentially around the product unit arrangement to create a secured product unit arrangement. The band has at least one graphic. The secured product unit arrangement is wrapped in a protective wrapper. The protective wrapper is heated to shrink the wrapper around the secured product unit arrangement. The graphic remains intact and visible. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283101 | APPARATUS AND SYSTEM TO FILL SINGLE-SERVE BIODEGRADABLE COFFEE PODS - Described is an apparatus for filling single-serve biodegradable coffee pods. The apparatus includes a base for supporting a rotatable platform comprising multiple pod holders, a filler mounted on the base and adjacent to the rotatable platform comprising a container filled with ground coffee and multiple augers capable of filling the coffee pods with ground coffee, a sealer mounted on the base comprising a heat sealable film winder, and a controller directing rotation of the rotatable platform, filling of the ground coffee from the filler, and sealing and trimming of the sealed film tops of the single-serve, biodegradable coffee pods. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283102 | Device For Filling Food Products - A device for filling liquid or pasty food products in prefabricated individual containers which form a sealing rim, the device including carrier elements which are run through the device by a drive in a continuous cycle and which include receiving openings for the individual containers; operating stations into whose operating area the carrier elements move during the continuous cycle through the device; at least one operating station configured as a sealing device which fixes a sealing foil on the sealing rim of each individual container using a sealing tool; a web shaped sealing foil spanning the carrier elements transversal to their width measured transversal to their feed direction wherein the sealing foil is run between the sealing rim of the individual containers and a sealing head; a pulley device which is arranged upstream of the sealing device in the feed direction. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283103 | A DEVICE AND METHOD FOR FEEDING POUCHES TO A CAROUSEL - A method of supplying pouches intended for containing liquid, viscous, or granular products to a carousel includes the steps of: positioning pouches along a first zone that is part of a first feeding component for feeding the pouches to the carousel; moving the pouches in the first zone as far as the carousel; and picking up the pouches from the first zone via the carousel; The method further includes positioning pouches along a second zone that is part of a second feeding component for feeding the pouches to the carousel. The step of positioning pouches along the second zone occurs in part simultaneously with picking up the pouches from the first zone; moving the pouches located in the second zone as far as the carousel queuing the pouches behind the pouches located in the first zone; and picking up the pouches from the second zone via the carousel. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283104 | DEVICE FOR FILLING LIQUID FOOD PRODUCTS - A device for filling liquid to pasty food products into prefabricated individual containers including a support rim, the device including carrier elements which are run by a drive continuously through the device, which carrier elements form receiving openings for the individual containers and include a top side that is oriented away from a direction of gravity and configured to carry the support rim of the individual containers that are inserted into the receiving openings; operating stations in whose operating range the carrier elements move during an endless cycle of the carrier elements in the device; at least one operating station that is configured as a sterilization device which de-germinates the carrier elements and the individual containers; a lifting device forming a portion of the sterilization device and configured to lift individual containers that are seated in the receiving openings and which contact a top side with the support rim. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283105 | SYSTEM FOR HANDLING THE STERILISATION OF FLEXIBLE POUCHES - A system of managing the sterilisation of empty flexible pouches ( | 2017-10-05 |
20170283106 | Demand Based Wrapping - A control system for a wrapping apparatus may include a packaging material dispenser configured to dispense packaging material for wrapping a load. The control system may also include at least one sensor assembly configured to generate a signal based on instantaneous demand for packaging material at the load. The control system may further include a controller configured to control operation of the packaging material dispenser based at least in part on the signal. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283107 | STRETCH WRAPPING SYSTEM AND PROCESS - In one aspect, a stretch wrap system configured to separately wrap a plurality of loads in film comprising a plurality of stretch wrapping machines, each machine comprising at least one sensing mechanism configured to sense the presence of a load, and a control box electrically coupled to sensing mechanisms, the control box comprising a start button configured to start the machines when sensing mechanisms detect load. In another aspect, a process of operating a system for stretch wrapping comprising positioning at least one load to be wrapped in front of at least one of a first and second machine wherein the first machine includes a sensing mechanism electrically coupled to a control box and wherein the second machine includes a second sensing mechanism electrically coupled to the control box, inputting a start signal through the control box, transmitting a signal from the control box to each of the sensing mechanisms, determining the presence or absence of a load within an operational space of each of the plurality of stretch wrapping machines and wrapping each present load using a respective one of the plurality of stretch wrapping machines. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283108 | Lightweight Container Base - A container defining a longitudinal axis and a transverse direction that is transverse with respect to the longitudinal axis. The container includes a finish and a sidewall portion extending from the finish. A plurality of ribs are defined by the sidewall. A base portion extends from the sidewall portion and encloses the sidewall portion to form a volume therein for retaining a commodity. The base portion has a contact surface for supporting the container. A plurality of straps extend radially along the base portion away from the longitudinal axis in the transverse direction, each one of the straps defines a strap surface that is closer to the finish than the contact surface. The plurality of ribs and the base portion are configured to place the container in a state of hydraulic charge-up when top load is applied to the container after the container is filled. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283109 | BOTTLE - The present invention discloses a bottle for storing the liquid and food products. In the preferred embodiment, the bottle comprises of an exterior body having a curved wall, which includes two built-in chambers. The secondary chamber is formed as a depression in said exterior body and forms cavity recess within the exterior body. Both primary chamber and the secondary chamber are cylindrical in shape. The cover is releasable coupled to the top portion of exterior body and enables the user(s) to pour the liquid and solid beverages into the primary chamber and the secondary chamber. The bottle further includes two lids. The first lid and the second lid are designed and placed at offset center of the primary chamber and the secondary chamber respectively. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283110 | FLAT PANEL CARDBOARD PACKAGING - A flat panel cardboard packaging for protecting a flat panel (FP) comprises a base part ( | 2017-10-05 |
20170283111 | REINFORCED PACKAGE - A reinforced package comprising a carton comprising a plurality of panels that can comprise a first side panel connected to a front panel along a first fold line, a back panel connected to the first side panel along a second fold line, and a second side panel connected to the front and/or back panels. The reinforced package further can comprise a bag that can have an at least partially open end, an at least partially closed end, and an interior space. The carton can be positionable in non-erect and erect positions, and the carton can be configured to support the bag in the erect position. The first and second side panels can comprise retention features for at least partially retaining the carton in the erect position, and the retention features can comprise at least a V-shaped fold line extending in the first side panel from the first fold line. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283112 | BULK MATERIAL SHIPPING CONTAINER - A bulk material shipping container including a pallet, a compartment mounted on the pallet, a material unloading assembly, and a material loading assembly. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283113 | BILLET SUPPORT FINGERS FOR PALLETIZATION - A support assembly includes a pallet table having an upper surface. A plurality of support members are configured to pass through a pallet positioned on the upper surface of the pallet table. Each support member includes a receiving surface that defines a portion of a channel extending across the support members. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283114 | Method and Apparatus for Interconnectable Building Block Container Toys Capable of Storing Items - Methods and apparatus for removably or irremovably interconnectable building block containers such as those capable of initially storing consumable items such as food and drink. After consumption of the food or drink, the cavity containing same may be cleaned and/or refilled with consumable or non-consumable items. The building block containers are utilized as building block toys and may be manufactured or otherwise designed to be collectable. In one aspect, the container connectors are nearly identical such that any one connector may mate with any other connector. In another aspect, the connectors are nearly identical but the orientations of each connector vary to allow mating to occur when the connectors are properly oriented. In another aspect, the container is a cube juice box with connectors on all four corners of all six sides of the container. A frame for holding a juice container may also be utilized. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283115 | DOUBLE CONTAINER ASSEMBLY AND MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREFOR - Provided is a manufacturing method for a double container that allows easy manufacturing with a molding device not significantly different from conventional devices and that can, at a lower cost than the processing cost of conventional technology, very easily and reliably form, in a comparatively rigid outer container and in a double container that allows, inside the outer container, capacity to be varied with respect to the amount of content, an opening for allowing external air to enter. When a pair of partial molds are brought near each other in order to form a split mold, at least part of the mating faces of the pair of partial molds forms a projection by sandwiching a small outer diameter portion of a parison, a gap that passes between the double container is created by cutting off the projection, and the gap is opened and expanded by screwing on a cap. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283116 | SHRINK LABELS - The invention relates to a shrink label. According to an embodiment the shrink label comprises an uniaxially oriented multilayer face film comprising skin layers including polyethylene polymer(s) and at least two cyclic polymers comprising different glass transition temperatures between 30 and 100° C. and the difference between the glass transition temperatures being between 5 and 60° C., and wherein the multilayer face film is seamed by a solvent. The invention further relates to a method for providing a shrink label, use of the shrink label, method for providing a shrink label and method for labelling. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283117 | Waste Cooking Grease Collection and Disposal Apparatus - A waste cooking grease collection and disposal apparatus includes a flexible heat-resistant non-conductive polymeric housing devised to withstand introduction of very hot cooking grease poured therein. The housing includes a base bounded topside by a perimetric wall to enclose an interior volume. Grease collected into the interior volume is transportable thereby to cool within a conditioned space, such as inside a refrigerator, for example. Once the grease is cooled, a block of solidified grease is readily removable from the apparatus by manual deformation of the housing. Since the housing comprises known dimensions, blocks of solidified grease of known dimensions are producible for disposal or reuse, as desired. | 2017-10-05 |
20170283118 | CONTAINER, PREFORM ASSEMBLY AND METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR FORMING CONTAINERS - Container comprising an inner container and an outer container with facing surfaces, wherein at least part of at least one of the facing surfaces has a surface roughness higher than about 0.1 Ra and/or wherein the difference in roughness of said facing surfaces is at least over a part more than about 0.1 Ra. | 2017-10-05 |