U.S. Patents Awarded to Inventors in Michigan (Dec. 3)

(Targeted News Service Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Targeted News Service Targeted News Service ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- The following federal patents were awarded to inventors in Michigan.

*** AGC Automotive Americas Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- AGC Automotive Americas, Hebron, Ky., has been assigned a patent (8,316,583) developed by David W. Lahnala, Adrian, Mich., for a "sliding window assembly including a drain hole." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A sliding window assembly for a vehicle includes a fixed panel and a sliding panel moveable relative to the fixed panel between an open position and a closed position. An elongated member is connected to the fixed panel and defines a channel extending along a longitudinal axis from a first end to a second end. The channel receives the sliding panel for movement of the sliding panel relative to the fixed panel. A rail is disposed in the channel along the longitudinal axis and is spaced along the longitudinal axis from the first end. The elongated member defines a drain hole molded into the elongated member in the channel. The drain hole is defined between the rail and the first end of the channel along the axis for draining water from the channel." The patent application was filed on Nov. 18, 2009 (12/621,308). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,316,583&OS=8,316,583&RS=8,316,583 Written by Neha Bharti; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Midwest Tool And Cutlery Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Midwest Tool And Cutlery, Sturgis, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,316,549) developed by Scott Musser, Sturgis, Mich., for a "compound leverage hand tool with interchangeable tool head." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A compound leverage hand tool with an interchangeable tool head. The tool includes a pair of pivotably interconnected handles and a tool head defined by a pair of pivotably interconnected blade members. Each blade member terminates at one end in a mounting dowel that is pivotably mounted in a pair of retention slots in one of the handles. Tool head latches are pivotably mounted to the handles and include locking fingers that extend over the retention slots. The tool head latches can be pivoted relative to the handles between a locked position, wherein the locking fingers prevent the mounting dowels from being removed from the handles, and an unlocked position, wherein the mounting dowels can be removed from the handles. A spring biases the tool head latches toward the locked position. To unlock the tool head latches and remove the tool head, a user engages a tool head latch and pulls the handles apart." The patent application was filed on April 21, 2010 (12/764,156). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-bool.html&r=1&f=G&l=50&co1=AND&d=PTXT&s1=8,316,549&OS=8,316,549&RS=8,316,549 Written by Neha Bharti; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent for System and Method for Heating and Cooling a Vehicle ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,316,650) developed by Jihui Yang, Lakeshore, Canada, Mark W. Verbrugge, Troy, Mich., and Gregory A. Major, Farmington Hills, Mich., for a "system and method for heating and cooling a vehicle." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A system for heating and cooling a vehicle includes a solar panel disposed on a surface of a vehicle and a thermoelectric unit i) disposed on or in an internal surface disposed in a cabin area of the vehicle, and ii) operatively connected to the solar panel. The thermoelectric unit is configured to heat and/or cool the internal surface in response to electric current applied thereto from the solar panel. The system further includes a control unit operatively associated with the thermoelectric unit. The control unit is configured to determine the amount and direction of the electric current to be applied to the thermoelectric unit based on i) a measured ambient temperature, ii) a measured temperature of the internal surface, and iii) a user-preferred reference temperature." The patent application was filed on May 21, 2009 (12/470,280). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,650.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,650&RS=PN/83,16,650 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Freelove Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Michelle Elizabeth Freelove, Battle Creek, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,316,864) developed by Michelle Elizabeth Freelove, for a "method of making a hair extension device." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "One configuration of the invention provides a method of making a hair extension device. Exemplary steps may include attaching a plurality of wefts together to form at least one first and second hair flap having a top and bottom end; attaching the top end of the first hair flap to the top end of the second hair flap; and folding over the first hair flap to form a U shaped hair cluster thereby sandwiching a filament between the first and second hair flap. Certain embodiments may create the extension device using one hair flap. Additional steps may include using thread to attach the plurality of wefts together, and positioning the seams of the wefts so that all of the seams of the hair cluster inside the hair cluster are adjacent to the filament. Also a zig-zag stitch may be used to sew the plurality of wefts together. The resulting hair extension device may be reversible or be made using lace." The patent application was filed on Sept. 30, 2010 (12/895,433). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,864.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,864&RS=PN/83,16,864 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** American Axle & Manufacturing Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- American Axle & Manufacturing, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,316,731) developed by four co-inventors for a "power transmission device with torque-resistant seal." The co-inventors are Salvatore N. Grupido, Rochester, Mich., Eric A. Rivett, Troy, Mich., James P. Borowiak, Grand Blanc, Mich., and Shemek Swieczkowski, Macomb Township, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A power transfer unit that includes a structure, a tube and a seal. The structure defines a boss that projects along an axis. The boss has a first portion, which defines a gripping surface, and a second portion that defines a sealing surface. The tube has an end that is disposed concentrically about at least a portion of the boss. The seal is received between and sealingly engaged against the structure and the tube. The seal includes a seal body with a seal member and a coupling portion. The seal member sealingly engages the sealing surface and the coupling portion frictionally engages the gripping surface." The patent application was filed on Oct. 10, 2008 (12/249,111). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,731.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,731&RS=PN/83,16,731 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,316,899) developed by Karen E. Lay, Madison Heights, Mich., and William F. Lietzau III, Lansing, Mich., for a "fill pocket housing fresh air filter assembly." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A fuel venting system for use with a fuel system of a vehicle. The system includes a fill pocket housing including an upper back wall having vent openings allowing fluid flow therethrough. A vent shield extends proximate to the vent openings on a back side of the upper back wall and extends outward away from the upper back wall as the back wall extends downward, with the vent shield also having side walls extending from the back wall to define a bottom opening. A diverter has side walls mounted to the upper back wall and a back wall extending between the side walls to surround the vent shield to form a gap between the diverter walls and the vent shield to receive a filter therein." The patent application was filed on June 15, 2010 (12/815,982). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,899.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,899&RS=PN/83,16,899 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Eaton Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Eaton, Cleveland, has been assigned a patent (8,316,888) developed by Gerrit VanVranken Beneker, Lake Orion, Mich., and Robert Dean Keller, Davisburg, Mich., for a "fluid-biased hydraulic control valve." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A hydraulic control valve is provided having a solenoid body, an energizable coil, and an armature positioned adjacent the coil. A valve stem extends from the armature. The coil is energizable to move the armature and the valve stem from a first position to a second position. The valve body, the armature and the valve stem are configured so that the armature and the valve stem are biased to the first position by pressurized fluid, allowing the armature to operate without a biasing spring." The patent application was filed on June 17, 2009 (12/486,035). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,888.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,888&RS=PN/83,16,888 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** AptarGroup Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- AptarGroup, Crystal Lake, Ill., has been assigned a patent (8,316,890) developed by David J. Gaus, Saginaw, Mich., for a "port closure system with hydraulic hammer resistance." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A port closure system (20) including a port structure (22), and a valve (24). The port structure (22) includes a port (28) for establishing communication between an exterior environment (30) and interior volume (32) that can receive a fluent substance. The valve (24) includes a flexible, resilient, self-closing, slit-type valve head (36) with an orifice that is normally closed in an unconstrained condition. The port (28) has a laterally inwardly facing engaging surface (34) and the valve has a laterally outwardly facing peripheral surface (54) that is compressed laterally inwardly by engagement with the surface (34) to increase the resistance of the normally closed orifice to opening when the head (36) is subjected to a pressure differential." The patent application was filed on Nov. 11, 2008 (12/268,814). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,890.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,890&RS=PN/83,16,890 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** BorgWarner Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- BorgWarner, Auburn Hills, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,316,830) developed by Robert D. Keefover, Lake Orion, Mich., and Murray F. Busato, Clinton Township, Mich., for a "valve module for a combustion engine breathing system." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A valve module for a combustion engine breathing system, and products and systems using the same." The patent application was filed on May 20, 2008 (12/599,841). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,830.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,830&RS=PN/83,16,830 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Mark IV Systemes Moteurs USA Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Mark IV Systemes Moteurs USA, Rochester Hills, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,316,812) developed by Allen G. Crowley, Sterling Heights, Mich., Francis V. Rolland, Rochester Hills, Mich., and Thomas Kern, Rochester Hills, Mich., for a "dual output flow control actuator." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Disclosed herein is an actuator for regulating the flow of fluids in first and second flow paths of an internal combustion engine. The actuator includes a motor having a rotatable drive shaft, a gear assembly driven by the drive shaft of the motor, and first and second output shafts rotated in opposite directions by the gear assembly. The first and second output shafts are operatively linked to valves in the first and second flow paths, respectively, to regulate the flow of fluids in the first and second flow paths." The patent application was filed on Sept. 9, 2008 (12/206,959). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,812.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,812&RS=PN/83,16,812 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** K. J. Manufacturing Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- K. J. Manufacturing, Wixom, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,316,811) developed by George R. Blundy, Walled Lake, Mich., and Ram D. Bedi, Bloomfield Township, Mich., for a "method and apparatus for priming various components of a diesel engine." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A fuel priming device comprising: means for establishing releasable fluid communication with an interior volume of a fuel conveying system of an engine; a first conduit affixed to the releasable communication means for conveying diesel fuel from an engine; a pressurizable reservoir in fluid communication with the fuel conveying conduit, the device located external to the automotive vehicle associated and at least on pneumatic system controlling the removal of fuel from the diesel fuel filter." The patent application was filed on Feb. 10, 2010 (12/703,453). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,811.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,811&RS=PN/83,16,811 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent for Release Handle for Vehicle Closure Lid Latch ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,317,237) developed by Joseph P. Fannon, Washington, Mich., and John K. Quinlan, Oakland, Mich., for a "release handle for vehicle closure lid latch." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A handle assembly is mounted on a vehicle body and includes a handle pulled by a user to pull a cable and release a remotely located latch, such as a luggage compartment lid latch, engine compartment lid latch, or fuel filler door lid latch. The handle assembly includes a bezel having a guide channel structure for slidably mounting the handle and defining a path for straight-line pulling of the cable. The guide channel structure is formed in part by a flexible wall, such as a flexible finger on the bezel that yieldably bears upon the handle, so that if the user pulls the handle at an angle to the straight-line pull axis of the cable, the flexible finger flexes to permit the handle to pivotally shift within the bezel to the angle established by the user, and without kinking the cable." The patent application was filed on Aug. 26, 2011 (13/219,043). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,237.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,237&RS=PN/8,317,237 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Michigan State University Fraunhofer USA Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Michigan State University Fraunhofer USA, Plymouth, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,316,797) developed by ten co-inventors for microwave plasma reactors. The co-inventors are Jes Asmussen, East Lansing, Mich., Timothy Grotjohn, Okemos, Mich., Donnie K. Reinhard, East Lansing, Mich., Thomas Schuelke, Brighton, Mich., M. Kagan Yaran, Lansing, Mich., Kadek W. Hemawan, East Lansing, Mich., Michael Becker, East Lansing, Mich., David King, Lansing, Mich., Yajun Gu, Lansing, Mich., and Jing Lu, East Lansing, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "New and improved microwave plasma assisted reactors, for example chemical vapor deposition (MPCVD) reactors, are disclosed. The disclosed microwave plasma assisted reactors operate at pressures ranging from about 10 Torr to about 760 Torr. The disclosed microwave plasma assisted reactors include a movable lower sliding short and/or a reduced diameter conductive stage in a coaxial cavity of a plasma chamber. For a particular application, the lower sliding short position and/or the conductive stage diameter can be variably selected such that, relative to conventional reactors, the reactors can be tuned to operate over larger substrate areas, operate at higher pressures, and discharge absorbed power densities with increased diamond synthesis rates (carats per hour) and increased deposition uniformity." The patent application was filed on June 16, 2009 (12/456,388). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,797.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,797&RS=PN/83,16,797 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Absolute Electronic Solutions Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Absolute Electronic Solutions, Las Vegas, has been assigned a patent (8,317,215) developed by Philip J. Quenzi, Atlantic Mine, Mich., and Richard W. Jenney, Naples, Fla., for a "fifth wheel trailer with adjustable deck." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A cargo carrier trailer for movably supporting cargo includes a frame configured to support cargo at the cargo carrier trailer and at least two wheels at each side of the frame. Each of the wheels is rotatably mounted to a respective support arm. The support arms are pivotally mounted to a carriage assembly that is repositionable fore and aft along the frame of the cargo carrier. The support arms are pivotable relative to the carriage assembly and frame to adjust the height and tilt of the frame relative to a support surface. The cargo carrier trailer is readily adapted to position the frame at a lower position for road applications and a raised position for uneven terrain applications. The cargo carrier trailer is adapted to couple to a tow vehicle via a fifth wheel hitch." The patent application was filed on June 23, 2009 (12/489,828). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,215.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,215&RS=PN/8,317,215 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Knape & Vogt Manufacturing Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Knape & Vogt Manufacturing, Grand Rapids, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,317,278) developed by Kenneth E. Enos, Nunica, Mich., for a "releasably locking slide assemblies." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Slide assemblies having telescopic slide members, a handle assembly and open and closed positions, with either or both of the open and closed positions being a releasable locking position, while merely requiring an intuitive pushing or pulling on a handle in the direction of intended movement to both unlock and move the slide assembly from the respective optional locking position." The patent application was filed on Aug. 18, 2010 (12/858,633). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,278.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,278&RS=PN/8,317,278 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent for Clinching Method and Tool for Performing the Same ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,317,079) developed by Jon T. Carter, Farmington, Mich., for a "clinching method and tool for performing the same." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A clinching method includes establishing a first layer on a second layer. The first layer has an aperture formed therein and is thinner than the second layer. A rotating punch is engaged with the second layer through the aperture in the first layer, thereby generating frictional heat and softening the second layer. The rotating punch is configured with at least a first diameter, a shoulder, and a second diameter that is larger than the first diameter. The rotating punch is pressed into the softened second layer, thereby causing at least some of the second layer to: back extrude through an annulus defined by the aperture in the first layer and at least one of the diameters of the punch; contact the shoulder of the rotating punch; and extend onto a surface of the first layer adjacent the aperture." The patent application was filed on Oct. 8, 2008 (12/247,973). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,079.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,079&RS=PN/8,317,079 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Hart & Cooley Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Hart & Cooley, Grand Rapids, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,317,235) developed by six co-inventors for a "flange cleat and method." The co-inventors are Eric Kipker, Holland, Mich., Clark Pridemore, Grand Rapids, Mich., Michael Lutz, Allendale, Mich., Alexander M. Prociv, Kentwood, Mich., Tiburcio Hernandez Jr., Holland, Mich., and Justin Johnston, Grand Rapids, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A flange cleat comprising a body having a first flange receiving portion and an immediately adjacent second flange receiving portion, a third flange receiving portion cooperatively disposed on the body opposite from the first flange receiving portion and the second flange receiving portion, the body having an elongate portion that extends from the third flange receiving portion, a flexible tab projecting from the elongate portion whereby the flexible tab can be depressed during installation, and the body being resiliently expandable during installation." The patent application was filed on Feb. 15, 2011 (13/027,352). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,235.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,235&RS=PN/8,317,235 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Lippert Components Manufacturing Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Lippert Components Manufacturing, Goshen, Ind., has been assigned a patent (8,317,250) developed by Michael A. Schwindaman, Cassopolis, Mich., Thomas J. Rogers, Cassopolis, Mich., and Michael W. Howard, Elkhart, Ind., for a "method for installing actuation mechanism for extending and retracting retractable room for recreational vehicle." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A slide-out or retractable room for a mobile living quarters, such as a recreational vehicle, is provided with actuating assemblies mounted on opposite side walls of the slide-out room and the adjacent wall of the main living area. The actuating assemblies include a pair of parallel gear racks mounted on the side wall, which are engaged by pinions rotated by torque shafts mounted on the main living quarters. Each torque shaft is rotated by a separate motor. A roller engages a bearing surface on the lower portion of the gear racks. Accordingly, the slide-out room is extended and retracted by rotating the torque shafts to cause the gear racks and the attached slide-out room to extend and retract. The weight of the slide-out room is supported by the rollers, thereby supporting the slide-out room off of the floor of the main living quarters as it extends and retracts. A synchronizing control operates the motors." The patent application was filed on July 12, 2011 (13/180,687). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,250.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,250&RS=PN/8,317,250 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent for Vehicle Door Assembly ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,317,253) developed by Anil K. Sachdev, Rochester Hills, Mich., and James C. O'Kane, Shelby Township, Mich., for a vehicle door assembly.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A door assembly for a vehicle includes an outer panel configured for defining an exterior surface of the vehicle, and an inner panel matable to the outer panel to define a cavity therebetween. The inner panel includes a lower portion having a first longitudinal axis and a B-pillar assembly extending from the lower portion. The B-pillar assembly includes a casting having an external surface configured for defining the exterior surface of the vehicle, an internal surface spaced apart from the external surface, a length, and a second longitudinal axis. The casting extends from the portion along the second longitudinal axis, and the second longitudinal axis is substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis." The patent application was filed on March 22, 2011 (13/053,400). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,253.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,253&RS=PN/8,317,253 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Ford Global Technologies, Key Safety Systems Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Ford Global Technologies, Dearborn, Mich., and Key Safety Systems, Sterling Heights, Mich., have been assigned a patent (8,317,222) developed by five co-inventors for an "inflatable seat belt system." The co-inventors are David R. Arnold, Macomb, Mich., Srinivasan Sundararajan, Ann Arbor, Mich., Dean M. Jaradi, Macomb, Mich., Edward Joseph Desmet, Canton, Mich., and Rudi Grzic, Sterling Heights, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An inflatable member is inflated by compressed gas that flows through the latch and hollow tubular tongue of a seat belt anchor. The inflatable member is retained in an uninflated condition in a split two layer belt. The latch is pivotally secured to a conduit that receives compressed inflation gas from a cylinder that is provided with a diffuser." The patent application was filed on June 19, 2009 (12/993,483). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,222.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,222&RS=PN/8,317,222 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,318,023) developed by Gregory Mordukhovich, Bloomfield Hills, Mich., and Andrew M. Mance, Royal Oak, Mich., for a "heated air assisted membrane separation of water and fuel from engine oil in an internal combustion engine." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Contaminating water and/or fuel material may be removed from a stream of internal combustion engine lubricating oil being circulated over parts of an operating engine. A suitable membrane material is supported in a suitable housing. At least a portion of the oil stream is flowed over one side of the membrane and water and/or fuel material diffuses through the membrane to its other side where they are gathered and removed from the housing. The water and fuel material may be recovered separately using different membranes or different regions of a membrane. They may be swept from the membranes and housings using streams of flowing air heated to a pre-selected temperatures using waste engine heat for disposition outside the housing. Application of this practice to other membrane-separable mixtures is described." The patent application was filed on Sept. 28, 2009 (12/567,851). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,318,023.PN.&OS=PN/8,318,023&RS=PN/8,318,023 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** CVG Management Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- CVG Management, New Albany, Ohio, has been assigned a patent (8,317,263) developed by Stephen Patrick Telesco, Dexter, Mich., for a "vehicle seating system with pivoting stop mechanism and method." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A vehicle seat system and method in which a seat belt restraint assembly is secured directly to the seat. The vehicle seat system includes a seat frame and a seat base that supports the seat frame. The system includes a first stop operating at rear portions of the seat base and seat frame to couple the seat base and seat frame and to limit forward pivoting movement of the seat frame upon sudden deceleration. The system may also include a second stop to limit rearward pivoting movement of the seat frame. The coupling of the seat base and seat frame provides the seat system with sufficient strength to satisfy load testing requirements and to provide comfort to the occupant. The vehicle system may include a tilt adjustment mechanism that allows tilting of the seat frame and that may also form part of a cushion slide mechanism." The patent application was filed on Sept. 14, 2011 (13/232,244). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,263.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,263&RS=PN/8,317,263 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Electronics for Imaging Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Electronics for Imaging, Foster City, Calif., has been assigned a patent (8,317,311) developed by four co-inventors for a "metallic ink jet printing system for graphics applications." The co-inventors are Paul A. Edwards, Ypsilanti, Mich., Sandra Zinke, Alpena, Mich., Joshua Samuel, Ann Arbor, Mich., and Matthew Tennis, Howell, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A multi-phase system for creating a metallic effect on a substrate, includes applying to the substrate a first ink jet ink having a dispersion of reflective metallic particles in a suitable carrier system, to form a reflective coating layer; and applying a second ink jet ink over the reflective coating layer to form a protective coating layer. Optionally, an undercoat layer is printed on the substrate prior to applying the first ink jet ink. The second ink jet comprises at least one crosslinkable polymer or is otherwise energy curable. The second ink jet ink optionally imparts a color to the metallic image." The patent application was filed on Feb. 18, 2011 (13/030,388). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,311.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,311&RS=PN/8,317,311 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Electro-Mechanical Associates Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Electro-Mechanical Associates, Ann Arbor, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,316,809) developed by Donald James Patterson, Ann Arbor, Mich., Kevin Michael Morrison, Ann Arbor, Mich., and George Byron Schwartz, Canton, Mich., for a "two-mode valve actuator system for a diesel engine." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A two mode valve lifter for Diesel engines which varies the compression ratio between higher for cold starting and other selected operating conditions, and lower for warmed-up running. This is accomplished during engine starting and selected other conditions by causing the intake valve to close early (near bottom center), providing for example, up to three ratios additional compression. The invention incorporates a conventional valve lifter packaged within a sleeve, the sleeve being moved by the engine cam. In its conventional operating mode, the sleeve is rigidly attached to the lifter and the cam moves the assembly to lift the valve in the ordinary manner. When the sleeve is not attached, partial lost motion occurs, causing the valve to open later and close earlier. In the modified mode and as needed, optional damping can be introduced to allow the valve to open and close gradually and quietly. Similarly, a two mode valve lifter which retains additional exhaust gas in the cylinder to assist cold starting and warm-up by closing the exhaust valve earlier can be incorporated either alone or in combination with the intake two mode lifter." The patent application was filed on March 4, 2011 (13/041,266). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,809.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,809&RS=PN/83,16,809 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent for Multistage Jounce Bumpe ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,317,172) developed by Shawn G. Quinn, Grand Blanc, Mich., Gregory J. Fadler, Commerce Township, Mich., and William C. Gregory, Milford, Mich., for a multistage jounce bumper.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A multistage jounce bumper, including a jounce bumper cushion integrated with a hydraulic jounce bumper, wherein provided are the damping characteristic of the hydraulic jounce bumper and the damping/spring characteristics of a jounce bumper cushion. The hydraulic jounce bumper hydraulic response is tunable via adjustment of hydraulic flow with respect to a communicating hydraulic fluid reservoir. When maximum jounce is approached, jounce force and energy are exchanged, at a first stage, with the jounce bumper cushion, then at a predetermined compression, jounce force and energy are exchanged, at a second stage, with the hydraulic jounce bumper. Thereafter, a mechanical abutment is provided as a third stage of jounce management." The patent application was filed on Jan. 25, 2007 (11/626,876). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,172.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,172&RS=PN/8,317,172 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Dow Corning Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Dow Corning, Midland, Mich., and Dow Corning Toray, Tokyo, have been assigned a patent (8,317,220) developed by Randall Paul Sweet, Midland, Mich., William R. Blackwood, Midland, Mich., and Tsugio Nozoe, Chiba, Japan, for a curable coating compositions.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A curable coating composition that exhibits improved cure and adhesion to various substrates, especially synthetic textiles used in the manufacture of air bags, comprises a composition curable by a hydrosilylation reaction, an acryloxy functional alkoxysilane or a methacryloxy functional alkoxysilane, an alkenyl functional silanol terminated organopolysiloxane, and an epoxy functional alkoxysilane. The curable coating composition is especially useful for application to synthetic textiles such as automotive air bags." The patent application was filed on Sept. 23, 2011 (13/242,640). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=8,317,220.PN.&OS=PN/8,317,220&RS=PN/8,317,220 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Faurecia Automotive Seating Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Faurecia Automotive Seating, Troy, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,316,785) developed by five co-inventors for a "flat seam construction for automotive upholstery." The co-inventors are Olivier Boinais, West Bloomfield, Mich., Yelena Gonopolskaya, Rochester Hills, Mich., Lola Lafferty, Capac, Mich., Leonardo L. Gomes, Clawson, Mich., and Etienne Poulet, Saint Bresson, France.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A flat seam construction made up of a number of sequentially formed stitches and formed on a portion of one or more stitchable materials is disclosed. Each stitch has two outer threads, formed into first and second outer thread loops, and at least one inner thread, formed into at least one inner thread loop. Each of the inner and outer thread loops transversely penetrate the one or more stitchable materials. Each of the inner and outer thread loops have a bight portion engaging a bottom surface of the one or more stitchable materials. At least one looper thread is formed on the bottom surface, and arranged such that, the at least one looper thread passes between the bottom surface and at least one of the bight portions. At least one decorative thread is visible on a top surface of the seam construction." The patent application was filed on March 8, 2010 (12/719,333). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,785.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,785&RS=PN/83,16,785 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Cummins IP Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 3 -- Cummins IP, Minneapolis, has been assigned a patent (8,316,829) developed by four co-inventors for an "apparatus, system, and method for efficiently operating an internal combustion engine utilizing exhaust gas recirculation." The co-inventors are Erik L. Piper, Columbus, Ind., Philip M. Dimpelfeld, Columbus, Ind., Santiago A. Durango, Dunlap, Ill., and Russell P. Durrett, Bloomfield, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An apparatus, system, and method are disclosed for efficiently operating an engine utilizing exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). The apparatus includes an exhaust manifold receiving exhaust gas from a first cylinder set, an EGR manifold receiving exhaust gas from a second cylinder set, and a passage comprising a variable restriction. The passage fluidly couples the exhaust manifold to the EGR manifold. The apparatus further includes a controller with modules for interpreting engine operating conditions and controlling actuators in response to the engine operating conditions." The patent application was filed on Feb. 9, 2009 (12/368,230). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser Sect1=PTO1&Sect2=HITOFF&d=PALL&p=1&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsrchnum.htm&r=1&f=G&l=50&s1=83,16,829.PN.&OS=PN/83,16,829&RS=PN/83,16,829 Written by Amal Ahmed; edited by Jaya Anand.

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