U.S. Patents Awarded to Inventors in Michigan (April 30)

(Targeted News Service Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Targeted News Service Targeted News Service ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- The following federal patents were awarded to inventors in Michigan.

*** University of Michigan, Georgetown University Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- The University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Mich., and Georgetown University, Washington, have been assigned a patent (8,163,805) developed by Shaomeng Wang, Saline, Mich., Dajun Yang, Rockville, Md., and Liang Xu, Ann Arbor, Mich., for a "small molecule antagonists of Bcl-2 family proteins." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "The present invention relates to naturally occurring and chemically synthesized small molecule antagonists of Bcl-2 family proteins. In particular, the present invention provides gossypol compounds (e.g., isomers, enantiomers, racemic compounds, metabolites, derivatives, pharmaceutically acceptable salts, in combination with acids or bases, and the like) and methods of using these compounds as antagonists of the anti-apoptotic effects of Bcl-2 family member proteins (e.g., Bcl-2, Bcl-X.sub.L, and the like). The present invention also provides compositions comprising gossypol compounds and optionally one or more additional therapeutic agents (e.g., anticancer/chemotherapeutic agents). The present invention also provides methods for treating diseases and pathologies (e.g., neoplastic diseases) comprising administering a composition comprising gossypol compounds and optionally one or more additional therapeutic agents (e.g., anticancer/chemotherapeutic agents) and/or techniques (e.g., radiation therapies, surgical interventions, and the like) to a subject or in vitro cells, tissues, and organs." The patent application was filed on Sept. 30, 2008 (12/242,380). 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=8,163,805&OS=8,163,805&RS=8,163,805 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Lakewood Process Machinery Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Lakewood Process Machinery, Holland, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,148) developed by four co-inventors for a "weight filling device for small objects." The co-inventors are Randy Miedema, Zeeland, Mich., Jeff Miedema, Hudsonville, Mich., Denny Schepel, Holland, Mich., and Mike Miedema, Holland, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A weight filling device for filling small objects comprising a vibrating feed assembly, at least two bins in a side by side orientation, and a chute assembly. The feed assembly includes feed stations having a feed tray with a large feed portion and a small feed portion in a side by side orientation, either integrally formed along a part or all of the length thereof, and each extending to a distal end thereof and vibrating at a predetermined frequency. The bins are positioned so as to be placeable in communication with the distal end of the at least one feed tray. The chute assembly is positioned below the distal end of the at least one feed tray, and has at least one directing chute station having a large feed selector positioned below the large feed portion of the feed tray and a small feed selector positioned below the small feed portion of the feed tray. The large feed selector and the small feed selector are independently pivotable relative to each other between a first position and a second position to direct small objects into the proper bin. The frame for holding the containers to be filled is also vertically adjustable." The patent application was filed on April 1, 2010 (12/798,322). 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=8,162,148&OS=8,162,148&RS=8,162,148 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Ford Global Technologies Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Ford Global Technologies, Dearborn, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,118) developed by Mark W. Marchie, Highland, Mich., and Paul W. Erlandson, Royal Oak, Mich., for a "lash control in a transmission coupler." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A releasable drive connection includes a ring including teeth angularly spaced about an axis, and grooves, each groove formed in an axial end of the ring and aligned angularly with a space between consecutive ring teeth; and a sleeve supported for axial movement, including first teeth angularly spaced about the axis, engageable with the ring teeth, each first tooth having a first length; and second teeth, each second tooth aligned with one of the first teeth, having an axial length shorter than the first length, and including a pointed end for engaging one of the grooves and permitting the first tooth to extend between and engage consecutive gear teeth." The patent application was filed on May 15, 2009 (12/466,397). 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=8,162,118&OS=8,162,118&RS=8,162,118 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent for Brake Caliper with Reduced Brake Squeal ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,162,111) developed by four co-inventors for a "brake caliper with reduced brake squeal." The co-inventors are Mark T. Riefe, Brighton, Mich., Brent D. Lowe, Milford, Mich., David B. Antanaitis, Northville, Mich., and Patrick J. Monsere, Highland, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An exemplary embodiment of a brake caliper has a housing with a first chamber and a second chamber. The brake caliper also has a first piston that moves in response to fluid pressure in the first chamber and has a second piston that moves in response to fluid pressure in the second chamber. A brake pad has a leading end portion that is acted upon by the first piston and has a trailing end portion that is acted upon by the second piston. A fluid passage leads to the first chamber. The trailing end portion contacts an associated rotor before the leading end portion contacts the rotor." The patent application was filed on Dec. 12, 2008 (12/333,362). 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=8,162,111&OS=8,162,111&RS=8,162,111 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Vanair Manufacturing Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Vanair Manufacturing, Michigan City, Ind., has been assigned a patent (8,162,068) developed by Jeff Rohl, Three Oaks, Mich., for a "pilot valve, method of using, and fluid system equipped therewith." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A pilot valve assembly for regulating the output of a first pressure source relative to a second pressure source, a fluid system equipped with the valve assembly, and a method of operating the valve assembly. The valve assembly includes a valve body with inlet and outlet ports and first and second sensing ports. The first and second sensing ports are adapted to sense, respectively, the fluid pressures of the first and second pressure sources. The inlet port is adapted for fluidically connecting to the first pressure source. The valve assembly defines a flow path between the inlet and outlet ports, and has components for allowing fluid flow from the inlet port, through the flow path, and to the outlet port only if the fluid pressure of the first pressure source exceeds the fluid pressure of the second pressure source by a differential by the flow-allowing components." The patent application was filed on June 15, 2009 (12/484,496). 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=8,162,068&OS=8,162,068&RS=8,162,068 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** EPA Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- The U.S. Department of Environmental Protection Agency has been assigned a patent (8,162,094) developed by Charles L. Gray Jr., Pinckney, Mich., and Daniel W. Barba, New Hudson, Mich., for a "hydraulic hybrid vehicle with large-ratio shift transmission and method of operation thereof." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A vehicle includes an internal combustion engine configured to power a hydraulic pump to pressurize hydraulic fluid, which is used to power the vehicle directly or is stored in an accumulator. A drive module, including a hydraulic pump/motor and a multi-speed mechanical transmission, is operatively coupled to drive wheels of the vehicle to provide motive power to the vehicle. The drive module can also include a second hydraulic motor (or multiple hydraulic motors) configured to provide motive power. The transmission is configured to progress through its gears at ratio shifts of no less than 2:1 between adjacent gear positions. The transmission is configured to place the hydraulic motor in neutral during some portions of vehicle operation, and to engage the motor during other portions of vehicle operation." The patent application was filed on June 7, 2011 (13/155,283). 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=8,162,094&OS=8,162,094&RS=8,162,094 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Ford Global Technologies Assigned Patent for Fuel Injector Interface and Diagnostics ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Ford Global Technologies, Dearborn, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,161,946) developed by Ross Dykstra Pursifull, Dearborn, Mich., for a "fuel injector interface and diagnostics." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method comprising receiving a fuel injection signal from a first driver circuit via a control line, feeding the fuel injection signal to a second fuel injector driver circuit, sending a control signal output from the second fuel injector driver circuit to a fuel injector, monitoring the fuel injector for degradation based on operation according to the control signal, and in response to degradation of the fuel injector, changing a state of the control line." The patent application was filed on Nov. 20, 2009 (12/622,838). 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=81,61,946&OS=81,61,946&RS=81,61,946 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Battery Patent Trust Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Battery Patent Trust, Wilmington, Del., has been assigned a patent (81,62,020) developed by Satish Anantharaman, Rochester, Mich., for an "infra-red thermal imaging of laser welded battery module enclosure components." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A thermal imaging system for a battery module enclosure that includes first and second battery module enclosure components between which a weld is formed includes a thermal imaging camera that focuses on the first and second battery module enclosure components within a predetermined amount of time after the weld is formed and that acquires a thermal signature. A control module includes an image processing module that receives the thermal signature and that locates a predetermined reference point in the thermal signature. An image comparison module receives the thermal signature and uses the predetermined reference point to compare the thermal signature to a template signature in order to verify structural integrity of the weld. The image comparison module computes a relative measure of deviation of the thermal signature from the template signature and identifies the weld as defective when the relative measure of deviation is greater than a predetermined value." The patent application was filed on Aug. 24, 2005 (11/211,021). 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=81,62,020&OS=81,62,020&RS=81,62,020 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent for Adsorbent Structures for Removal of Water and Fuel Contaminants in Engine Oil ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,161,953) developed by Gregory Mordukhovich, Bloomfield Hills, Mich., for an "adsorbent structures for removal of water and fuel contaminants in engine oil." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Devices and methods for removal of condensed, blow-by contaminants with small molecular dimensions from the circulating lubricating engine oil of internal combustion engines, including automotive engines, with a positive crankcase ventilation system are disclosed. These condensable blow-by contaminants include water, alcohols and hydrocarbons with preponderantly seven or fewer carbon atoms. A macroporous structure comprising alumino-silicate particles with micro-pores is at least partially immersed in the circulating oil. The micro-pores are sized to adsorb the small, condensed, blow-by, contaminant molecules but not the larger oil molecules. The particles may be multi-layered, with an inner layer adapted for adsorption of polar molecules. Adsorption is most extensive at lower oil temperatures and decreases as the oil temperature increases. Thus at low temperatures the contaminant molecules may be adsorbed, removed from the oil and temporarily stored in the micropores. At high temperatures some of the contaminants will desorb and be re-incorporated in the oil. The desorbed contaminants will be carried with the higher temperature oil into the engine crankcase where they may vaporize and be removed by the engine positive crankcase ventilation system." The patent application was filed on Oct. 28, 2010 (12/914,088). 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=81,61,953&OS=81,61,953&RS=81,61,953 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Vaughan Industries Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Vaughan Industries, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,161,888) developed by Andrew Vaughan Balash, Harrison Township, Mich., for a "car wash roller and method for manufacturing the car wash roller." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A car wash roller and a manufacturing method are provided. The roller includes a body with first and second apertures and a shaft disposed in the first aperture. The body further includes a third aperture extending from a top surface to the first aperture. The shaft has an aperture that is aligned with the third aperture. The roller further includes a locking member disposed in both the third aperture and the aperture of the shaft that prevents the shaft from rotating relative to the body. The roller further includes first and second plastic sleeves that are disposed on the shaft, such that the sleeves do not rotate relative to the shaft. The roller further includes first and second plastic wheels that are rotatably coupled to the first and second plastic sleeves, respectively." The patent application was filed on Oct. 28, 2010 (12/914,446). 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=8,161,888&OS=8,161,888&RS=8,161,888 Written by Kusum Sangma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Donnelly Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Donnelly, Holland, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,493) developed by five co-inventors for an "interior rearview mirror assembly for vehicle." The co-inventors are Timothy G. Skiver, Holland, Mich., Joseph P. McCaw, Lawrence, Mich., John T. Uken, Jenison, Mich., Jonathan E. DeLine, Raleigh, N.C., and Niall R. Lynam, Holland, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A vehicular interior rearview mirror assembly includes a circuit board disposed in a mirror casing rearward of a reflective element. A plurality of light emitting diodes is mounted to the circuit board for providing backlighting for a display element disposed rearward of the reflective element. With at least some of the light emitting diodes electrically actuated to emit light, light emitted by actuated light emitting diodes passes through the display element and through a partially transmissive and significantly reflective region of the reflective element for viewing of displayed information by the driver of the vehicle. Individual light emitting diodes are aligned with respective openings through a light reflecting element disposed between the circuit board and the display element. To the driver of the vehicle viewing the reflective element, the presence of the display element is substantially not apparent until at least one of the light emitting diodes is actuated." The patent application was filed on March 30, 2011 (13/075,275). 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=8,162,493&OS=8,162,493&RS=8,162,493 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Ford Global Technologies Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Ford Global Technologies, Dearborn, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,519) developed by four co-inventors for a "concealed interior lighting for automobiles." The co-inventors are Stuart C. Salter, White Lake, Mich., Cornel Lewis Gardner, Romulus, Mich., Mike James Whitens, Novi, Mich., and Jeffrey Singer, Canton, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A lighting arrangement for the interior of an automotive vehicle in which the light source, such as an LED, is recessed into the interior structure of the vehicle and covered with a layer of fabric. The light source is invisible when not in use, but shines through the fabric/foam layer when illuminated, and can be associated with a light transmitting member, such as a light bar and a light pipe. Such lighting arrangements can be disposed within the headliner to direct light where desired and for different functions, such as a map light or for area lighting. The lighting arrangement can be mounted in non-traditional locations, such as on vertically oriented pillars, visors, door panels, seat backs, seat fronts, and console sides. The light source is preferably one or more LEDs associated with a light transmitting medium to direct the discharge of light as desired within the automotive interior." The patent application was filed on Feb. 22, 2009 (12/390,495). 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=8,162,519&OS=8,162,519&RS=8,162,519 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Delphi Technologies Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Delphi Technologies, Troy, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,536) developed by Charles S. Nelson, Fenton, Mich., and Raymond L. Bloink, Swartz Creek, Mich., for a combined sensor.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method of manufacturing an exhaust temperature sensor is disclosed. It includes forming a green ceramic substrate; and printing an electrical circuit on the green ceramic substrate. The method then contemplates trimming the electrical circuit to a predetermined resistance prior to firing the green ceramic. Finally, the method contemplates firing the green ceramic substrate with the electrical circuit thereon." The patent application was filed on Dec. 15, 2008 (12/335,228). 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=8,162,536&OS=8,162,536&RS=8,162,536 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Donnelly Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Donnelly, Holland, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,518) developed by Kenneth Schofield, Holland, Mich., for an "adaptive forward lighting system for vehicle." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An adaptive forward lighting system for a vehicle includes an imaging sensor and a control. The imaging sensor includes a two-dimensional array of light sensing photosensor elements, and monitors a scene forward of the direction of travel of the vehicle. The control processes image data from the imaging sensor. Adjustment between a first beam pattern and a second beam pattern of a headlamp of the vehicle is responsive, at least in part, to the processing of the image data. The control may receive vehicle data via a vehicle communication bus, and may adjust between a first beam pattern and a second beam pattern of a headlamp of the vehicle responsive, at least in part, to the vehicle data. The control may process image data to determine, at least in part, a presence, location or characteristic of an object of interest in the forward field of view of the imaging sensor." The patent application was filed on June 30, 2011 (13/173,039). 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=8,162,518&OS=8,162,518&RS=8,162,518 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Sno-Way International Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Sno-Way International, Hartford, Wis., has been assigned a patent (8,162,521) developed by William F. Menze, Escanaba, Mich., Michael L. Schultz, Lomira, Wis., and Timothy G. Koch, Slinger, Wis., for an "independent lighting energy interruption system with energy subdivisioning and method." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An auxiliary lighting energy interruption system for use with snow plows and like front-mounted vehicle accessories is disclosed which facilitates the interconnection of such systems to the lighting system of a vehicle upon which the vehicle accessory is mounted to provide power to and to control the auxiliary lights with the lighting system of the vehicle. The system provides first and second harness portions for respective installation on the vehicle and the vehicle accessory, with the first harness portion having a first configuration when it is not connected to the second harness portion and a second configuration when it is connected to the second harness portion. The first configuration allow the headlights on the vehicle to operate, while the second configuration allows only the headlights on the vehicle accessory to operate, with changes between the first and second configurations being accomplished without the need for a switch or a relay." The patent application was filed on July 26, 2010 (12/843,165). 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=8,162,521&OS=8,162,521&RS=8,162,521 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Toyota Motor Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Toyota Motor, Erlanger, Ky., has been assigned a patent (8,162,520) developed by Benjamin Warren Penner, Ann Arbor, Mich., for a "vehicle console assemblies with cup holder and storage bin lighting assembly." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A lighting assembly for illuminating a console assembly of a vehicle includes a cup holder assembly in the console assembly having a cup-receiving volume. A storage bin in the console assembly has a storage volume. A light source assembly is mounted within the console assembly. The light source assembly illuminates the cup-receiving volume directly and illuminates the storage bin indirectly." The patent application was filed on Aug. 17, 2009 (12/542,227). 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=8,162,520&OS=8,162,520&RS=8,162,520 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Electronics for Imaging Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Electronics for Imaging, Foster City, Calif., has been assigned a patent (8,162,437) developed by Paul Andrew Edwards, Ypsilanti, Mich., John Hennessy, Grosse Pointe Park, Mich., and Frank Bruck, Ypsilanti, Mich., for an ink jet printer.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An ink jet printer for printing on a substrate comprising a first print head outputting ink and defining an ink meniscus; a platen operable to carry the substrate; a support structure; and a print head mechanism coupled to the support structure and carrying the first print head. The print head mechanism moves the first print head relative to the platen. A controller controls the print head mechanism such that at least one of a predetermined acceleration and predetermined deceleration of the print head mechanism is achieved such that the ink meniscus is operably maintained." The patent application was filed on Oct. 27, 2010 (12/913,617). 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=8,162,437&OS=8,162,437&RS=8,162,437 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Michigan Inventors Develop Patent for Program and Method for Locating Fasteners ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- George D. Antuma, Holland, Mich., and Scott E. Sluiter, Holland, Mich., have developed a patent (8,165,851) for a "program and method for locating fasteners." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method and system for determining fastener locations at the joints of chord and web members of a roof truss determines an allowable area within which fasteners can be placed at the joints. Fastener locations within the allowable areas are determined, and additional information is associated with each fastener location. The additional information may include a fastener installation parameter than can be compared to a parameter measured during installation of the fastener to determine if the fastener has been properly installed. The fastener locations within the allowable area may be arranged to form a non-linear zig-zag pattern." The patent application was filed on Dec. 21, 2007 (11/962,702). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft1.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=8,165,851.PN.&OS=PN/8,165,851&RS=PN/8,165,851 Written by Shabnam Sheikh; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Michigan Inventor Develops Patent for Index Data Structure ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Primo M. Pettovello, Canton, Mich., has developed a patent (8,166,074) for an "index data structure for a peer-to-peer network." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An index data structure comprises a plurality of index keys for uniquely identifying potential data object context nodes. Each index key is, in turn, associated with one or more potential context nodes. Moreover, the index key has a label that provides semantic content to a user. The index data structure further comprises one or more routing tables associated with each index key that generally include a plurality of path references." The patent application was filed on Jan. 28, 2010 (12/695,231). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft1.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=8,166,074.PN.&OS=PN/8,166,074&RS=PN/8,166,074 Written by Shabnam Sheikh; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Lear Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Lear, Southfield, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,392) developed by four co-inventors for a "vehicle seat having active head restraint system." The co-inventors are Mladen Humer, Eastpointe, Mich., Nagarjun Yetukuri, Rochester Hills, Mich., Gerald Locke, Lake Orion, Mich., and Dale Smallwood, Clarkston, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A vehicle seat assembly having a seatback frame, an upper armature that is movable relative to the seatback frame and a head restraint mounted on the upper armature. A linkage assembly operatively interconnects the upper armature and an impact body such that movement of the impact body relative to the seatback frame acts on the linkage assembly to move the upper armature relative to the seatback frame to cause the head restraint to move toward the occupant. The linkage assembly includes a linkage and a coupler movably connected to the linkage. The coupler includes a first member movably connected to the seatback frame and a second member movably connected to the first member at a location below the upper end of the impact body." The patent application was filed on Oct. 24, 2008 (12/257,542). 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=8,162,392&OS=8,162,392&RS=8,162,392 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,165,774) developed by Lan Wang, Troy, Mich., Wenbo Wang, Novi, Mich., and Zhong Wang, Westland, Mich., for a "cruise control interaction with deceleration fuel cutoff." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A vehicle control system includes a sensor that generates a vehicle speed signal. A cruise control system generates a cruise control signal to maintain a vehicle at a target speed. A control module compares the vehicle speed signal to the target speed signal. The control module calculates different cruise control gains to delay changes in throttle position of the cruise control system when the vehicle speed signal is greater than the target speed." The patent application was filed on June 7, 2007 (11/759,414). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft1.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=8,165,774.PN.&OS=PN/8,165,774&RS=PN/8,165,774 Written by Shabnam Sheikh; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Nissan North America Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Nissan North America, Franklin, Tenn., has been assigned a patent (8,162,387) developed by four co-inventors for a "body panel support bracket." The co-inventors are Scott Nydam, Farmington Hills, Mich., Tom Domlovil, Farmington Hills, Mich., Chris Martin, Brandon, Miss., and Mike Speer, Canton, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Disclosed herein are embodiments of a body structure of a vehicle incorporating a body panel support bracket. In one embodiment, a body structure for a vehicle comprises a first body panel having a cantilevered portion and a second body panel adjacent the first body panel. A panel hinge has a hinge arm attached to the second body panel and a base portion. The cantilevered portion of the first body panel extends over a portion of the panel hinge. A body panel support bracket is attached to the base portion of the panel hinge and comprises a body panel support portion configured to support the cantilevered portion of the first body panel." The patent application was filed on Dec. 22, 2010 (12/976,260). 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=8,162,387&OS=8,162,387&RS=8,162,387 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Robert Bosch Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Robert Bosch, Stuttgart, Germany, has been assigned a patent (8,165,796) developed by Dieter Hoetzer, Plymouth, Mich., for a "collision avoidance system and method." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Systems and methods for avoiding a collision. A first sensor is located, for example, in a front portion of a vehicle and is configured to monitor a first area. A second sensor is located, for example, in a top portion of the vehicle and is configured to execute a 360-degree sweep of the area surrounding the vehicle. In a first position, the second sensor is retracted below an outer surface of the vehicle. In a second position, the second sensor is protracted above the outer surface of the vehicle. A controller is configured to detect a critical situation using the first sensor, detect zero or more additional critical situations using the second sensor, and initiate an evasive driving maneuver to avoid each of the critical situations." The patent application was filed on Sept. 5, 2008 (12/205,086). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft1.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=8,165,796.PN.&OS=PN/8,165,796&RS=PN/8,165,796 Written by Shabnam Sheikh; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Ford Global Technologies Assigned Patent for Multiple Tube Body Side Construction for Automobiles ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Ford Global Technologies, Dearborn, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,388) developed by four co-inventors for a "multiple tube body side construction for automobiles." The co-inventors are Jason Balzer, Walled Lake, Mich., Lawrence Queener, Pinckney, Mich., James Lowe, Temperance, Mich., and Dean Gericke, Brighton, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A body side construction for an automotive vehicle is formed from multiple tubular members arranged to maximize the strength of the body side members while minimizing the amount of material utilized in the manufacture of the body side members and, thus reducing the cost of manufacture of the automobile. The body side members are formed from tubular members preferably manufactured through a hydroforming process. The tubular members extend from the front pillar to the rear pillar and can vary in number and in size as appropriate for the load being carried by the body side members. The tubular members can also be used to transition from the body side portion of the automobile to the roof structure to provide an integrated frame assembly. The formation of the body side members from multiple tubular members also creates an internal reinforcement web to further enhance the strength of the section." The patent application was filed on July 3, 2006 (11/480,618). 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=8,162,388&OS=8,162,388&RS=8,162,388 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Ventech Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Ventech, Wixom, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,233) developed by Jeremy J. Sanger, Milford, Mich., and Franco Garavoglia, Commerce Township, Mich., for a "vehicle supplemental heating system including pressure relief diaphragm." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Disclosed herein is an exemplary liquid heat generator including a housing and a rotor disposed within the housing. A flexible pressure relief diaphragm is attached to the rotor. The pressure relief diaphragm includes a seal ring that engages a seal seat attached to the housing." The patent application was filed on June 18, 2008 (12/141,592). 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=8,162,233&OS=8,162,233&RS=8,162,233 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,162,397) developed by Daniel W. Booth, Warren, Mich., and Robert L. Demick, Macomb Township, Mich., for an adjustable seat assembly.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An adjustable seat assembly for a vehicle includes a frame and a covering. The covering has a first portion and a second portion. A flexure region, having an arched shape, is disposed between the first portion and the second portion. The covering at least partially extends over the frame to the first portion. An adjustment mechanism is operatively connected to the covering, at the first portion. The first portion and the second portion define a linear distance therebetween. The adjustment mechanism is configured to move the first portion relative to the second portion such that the flexure region moves to change the linear distance between the first portion and the second portion." The patent application was filed on Oct. 31, 2008 (12/262,328). 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=8,162,397&OS=8,162,397&RS=8,162,397 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** TK Holdings Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- TK Holdings, Auburn Hills, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,355) developed by Christopher Donald Hall, Algonac, Mich., for an airbag inflator connector.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "An inflatable safety system for a vehicle, the safety system including an inflator assembly and an airbag assembly. The safety system further includes an airbag inflator connector securely connecting the inflator assembly to the airbag assembly. The inflator assembly and the airbag assembly may be connected to one another at a connection in which a male portion that includes a first exterior projection extends into a tube having a second exterior projection. The airbag inflator connector has, among other elements, a first and second reaction surface, such that the first reaction surface is positioned adjacent a surface of the first projection, and the second reaction surface is positioned adjacent a surface of the second projection." The patent application was filed on March 5, 2008 (12/073,419). 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=8,162,355&OS=8,162,355&RS=8,162,355 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Marketing Displays Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Marketing Displays, Farmington Hills, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,284) developed by A. James Dobson, Northville, Mich., and Christopher M. Larsen, Farmington Hills, Mich., for a "warning flag deployment system." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A warning flag deployment system includes a mount having a closed bracket having a contact wall. A rod positioning member has a stowed retention wall and a deployed retention wall angularly oriented to the stowed retention wall. An open bracket has an open bracket leg and a standoff leg spacing the open bracket leg from a surface of the mount defining plane. A flag support rod is connected to the mount and is rotatable between a stowed condition and a deployed condition. The stowed condition has the flag support rod positioned between the contact wall and the stowed retention wall of the rod positioning member. The deployed condition has the flag support rod positioned between the rod positioning member deployed retention wall and the standoff leg and at least partially in a cavity defined between the plane and the open bracket leg." The patent application was filed on Feb. 11, 2011 (13/025,301). 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=8,162,284&OS=8,162,284&RS=8,162,284 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Hayes Lemmerz International Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Hayes Lemmerz International, Northville, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,162,406) developed by Thomas E. Heck, Monroe, Mich., Patrick McCorry, Plymouth, Mich., and Todd Duffield, Westland, Mich., for a "multi-piece vehicle wheel cover retention system and method for producing same." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method for producing a multi-piece vehicle wheel retention system comprises the steps of: (a) providing a wheel having a wheel disc defining and axis and an outboard facing wheel surface; (b) providing a first outer wheel cover formed from a metal material, the first outer wheel cover covering at least a portion of the an outboard tire bead seat retaining flange of the wheel disc; (c) providing a second inner wheel cover formed from a plastic material, the second inner wheel cover covering at least a substantial portion of the outboard facing wheel surface of the wheel disc; (d) providing an insert formed from a foam material and which generally corresponds to at least the shape of a space which formed between the outboard facing wheel surface and the inboard surface of the second wheel cover; (e) securing the first and second inner wheel covers together by at least an interference fit therewith; and (f) permanently securing the assembled wheel covers of step (e), the insert and the wheel to one another by adhesive to produce the multi-piece vehicle wheel retention system." The patent application was filed on Jan. 4, 2010 (12/651,523). 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=8,162,406&OS=8,162,406&RS=8,162,406 Written by Satyaban Rath; edited by Hemanta Panigrahi.

*** Whirlpool Assigned Patent for Utilities Grid for Distributed Refrigeration System ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Whirlpool, Benton Harbor, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,161,760) developed by four co-inventors for "utilities grid for distributed refrigeration system." The co-inventors are Nihat O. Cur, Saint Joseph, Mich., Steven John Kuehl, Stevensville, Mich., John Joseph Vonderhaar, Saint Joseph, Mich., and Frank Huangtso Lin, Ann Arbor, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A distributed refrigeration appliance system for use in a residential kitchen and other locations in a dwelling and includes multiple separate refrigeration appliance modules, a central cooling system and a cooling circuit. The system can also include one or more satellite stations having a heat exchanger and arranged for supplying chilled air to one or more refrigeration appliance modules. One or more refrigeration appliance modules can include a thermal cascade cooling device to cool the module to lower temperatures than the cooling circuit can attain. One or more refrigeration appliance modules can be refrigeration/storage modules that can provide refrigerated, unconditioned or heated storage space. The central cooling system can be a vapor compression system having a refrigerant circuit connecting the modules. Alternately, the central cooling system can cool a secondary cooling medium circuit. The refrigeration system can also have more than one refrigeration machine providing cooling to the secondary refrigeration loop." The patent application was filed on June 28, 2007 (11/769,903). 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=8,161,760&OS=8,161,760&RS=8,161,760 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** GM Global Technology Operations Assigned Patent for Transmission Slip Control ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- GM Global Technology Operations, Detroit, has been assigned a patent (8,165,772) developed by Todd J. Thor, Byron, Mich., for a transmission slip control.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A method of managing slip in a transmission that is driven by a prime mover includes determining whether a slip condition of the transmission is present based on a slip value and reducing a torque output of the prime mover based on a torque reduction value when the slip condition is present. The method further includes storing the torque reduction value in an array if the slip condition is resolved as a result of the step of reducing and identifying a faulty component within the transmission based on the array." The patent application was filed on April 25, 2007 (11/739,904). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft1.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=8,165,772.PN.&OS=PN/8,165,772&RS=PN/8,165,772 Written by Shabnam Sheikh; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Robert Bosch Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Robert Bosch, Stuttgart, Germany, has been assigned a patent (8,165,742) developed by Hsiencheng Wu, Novi, Mich., Qingyuan Li, Ann Arbor, Mich., and Daniel Patient, Novi, Mich., for a "system and method for compensating sensor signals." The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A system and method for compensating sensor signals. The system includes a first sensor, a second sensor, a fuzzy logic module, and a Kalman filter module. The first sensor is configured to generate a first signal corresponding to a first condition of a vehicle. The second sensor is configured to generate a second signal corresponding to a second condition of the vehicle. The fuzzy logic module is configured to output a first set of values based on a signal stability of at least the second signal. The Kalman filter module is configured to receive the first set of values and the first signal and estimate a sensor compensation signal based on at least the first set of values and the first signal." The patent application was filed on Nov. 14, 2008 (12/271,490). The full-text of the patent can be found at http://patft1.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=8,165,742.PN.&OS=PN/8,165,742&RS=PN/8,165,742 Written by Shabnam Sheikh; edited by Jaya Anand.

*** Morpho Detection Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Morpho Detection, Newark, Calif., has been assigned a patent (8,161,830) developed by six co-inventors for a "method, apparatus, and system for integrated vapor and particulate sampling." The co-inventors are Hacene Boudries, Wilmington, Mass., Ralph Reda, Concord, Mass., Natalya O. Hall, Allston, Mass., Joseph Chiffy, Nashua, N.H., Marcel Benz, Cambridge, Mass., and Karl Goedecke, Everett, Mass.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A detection system for identifying an unknown substance includes a detector assembly configured to receive a particulate or vapor and determine a substance contained within the collected vapor or particulate sample, and at least one heater element operatively coupled in flow communication with the detector assembly. The heater element is configured to attract an airborne vapor when the detection system is in a vapor mode, and desorb at least a portion of the attracted particulate when the detection system is in a particulate mode." The patent application was filed on Nov. 21, 2008 (12/276,118). 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=8,161,830&OS=8,161,830&RS=8,161,830 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Ford Global Technologies Assigned Patent for Hydrocarbon Retaining and Purging System ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Ford Global Technologies, Dearborn, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,161,733) developed by five co-inventors for a "hydrocarbon retaining and purging system." The co-inventors are Michael James Uhrich, West Bloomfield, Mich., Stephen B. Smith, Livonia, Mich., James Michael Kerns, Trenton, Mich., Shane Elwart, Ypsilanti, Mich., and Jason Aaron Lupescu, Ypsilanti, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Methods and systems are provided for operating an engine having a hydrocarbon retaining system and an emission control device coupled to an engine exhaust, the engine exhaust comprising a venturi. One example method comprises, during a storing condition, routing exhaust gas through the venturi without generating a venturi action, and then to the hydrocarbon retaining system, while bypassing the emission control device, to store hydrocarbons in the hydrocarbon retaining system, and during a purging condition, routing exhaust gas through the venturi while generating venturi action, then to the emission control device, and then to the hydrocarbon retaining system, to purge stored hydrocarbons, wherein a flow of purged hydrocarbons is drawn back to the venturi via venturi action." The patent application was filed on March 3, 2009 (12/396,782). 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=8,161,733&OS=8,161,733&RS=8,161,733 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Whirlpool Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Whirlpool, Benton Harbor, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,161,768) developed by five co-inventors for a "modular food preservation system." The co-inventors are Paul B. Allard, Stevensville, Mich., Douglas D. Leclear, Benton Harbor, Mich., Andrew M. Tenbarge, Saint Joseph, Mich., John J. Vonderhaar, Saint Joseph, Mich., and Michele E. Wilcox, Stevensville, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A refrigerator includes a cabinet defining an open storage space and including a door having an interior side adapted to receive a modular component. The modular component has a base removably connected to the interior side of the door. A component door is hingedly-connected to the base and includes a viewing area. The component door is operable between an open position and a closed position and the base and the component door define a sealed compartment when the component door is in the closed position. An air hose extends from the modular component. The air hose has a proximal end and a distal end. A fastener system is disposed on one of the component door and the base. The fastener system is adapted to engage with the first fasteners to create a seal between the component door and the base. A heat sealer is disposed on one of the base and the component door." The patent application was filed on March 12, 2009 (12/402,534). 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=8,161,768&OS=8,161,768&RS=8,161,768 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Nissan North America Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Nissan North America, Franklin, Tenn., has been assigned a patent (8,161,819) developed by four co-inventors for a "laser deflection vibration test of door mirror." The co-inventors are Kurt H. Maxwell, New Hudson, Mich., Tatsuro Mori, Yokohama, Japan, Chandana J. DeSilva, Northville, Mich., and Alfredo N. DiMichele, Macomb, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Disclosed herein is a method for measuring the vibration of a mirror in a vehicle. The method includes attaching a source of electromagnetic radiation to the vehicle, attaching a detector of electromagnetic radiation to the vehicle, positioning the source so that radiation emitted thereby strikes the mirror and reflects therefrom to strike the detector, driving the vehicle while emitting radiation from the source, recording the positions on the detector where the radiation strikes, and determining a vibration index based on the spatial distribution of the positions on the detector where the radiation strikes." The patent application was filed on Feb. 13, 2009 (12/370,899). 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=8,161,819&OS=8,161,819&RS=8,161,819 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Erlanger, Ky., has been assigned a patent (8,161,804) developed by five co-inventors for an "apparatus and methods for maintaining proper test piece orientation during corrosion testing." The co-inventors are Nicholas Philip Herdzik, Sterling Heights, Mich., Andrew Raymond Nowasielski, Shelby Township, Mich., Adam Richard Muehlhauser, Ypsilanti, Mich., Janet Christine Robincheck, Sterling Heights, Mich., and Jerry Walter Slumski, Flat Rock, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A support stand for supporting a test piece within a corrosion chamber comprises first and second side members interconnected by first and second support rods. The relative position of the support rods is adjustable so as to modify the orientation of the test piece. In some examples, each side member has a base, a first row of spaced-apart holes generally parallel to the base, and a second row of spaced apart holes generally perpendicular to the base. By selecting the holes with which the support rods engage, the orientation of the test piece can be set to a predetermined value." The patent application was filed on June 8, 2009 (12/480,274). 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=8,161,804&OS=8,161,804&RS=8,161,804 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Ford Global Technologies Assigned Patent ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Ford Global Technologies, Dearborn, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,161,746) developed by four co-inventors for a "method and system for providing air to an engine." The co-inventors are Joseph Norman Ulrey, Dearborn, Mich., Jeffrey Allen Doering, Canton, Mich., Ross Dykstra Pursifull, Dearborn, Mich., and Donald J. Lewis, Vancouver, Wash.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "Systems and methods for supplying air to an engine are disclosed. In one example, an air inlet throttle is at least partially closed in response to a change in engine torque request. In another example, the air inlet throttle is adjusted in conjunction with adjusting an engine throttle. The approach can reduce compressor noise and may reduce the possibility of compressor surge." The patent application was filed on March 29, 2011 (13/075,031). 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=8,161,746&OS=8,161,746&RS=8,161,746 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

*** Ford Global Technologies Assigned Patent for System and Method to Improve Engine Emissions for a Dual Fuel Engine ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 30 -- Ford Global Technologies, Dearborn, Mich., has been assigned a patent (8,161,732) developed by five co-inventors for a "system and method to improve engine emissions for a dual fuel engine." The co-inventors are Mark William Peters, Wolverine Lake, Mich., John M. Roth, Grosse Ile, Mich., Ken O. Jahr, West Bloomfield, Mich., Jason Eugene Devries, Belleville, Mich., and John Hedges, Canton, Mich.

The abstract of the patent published by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office states: "A system and method for improving emissions of an engine capable of combusting a multi-component fuel comprised of two or more fuels is presented. According to the method, the passage exhaust gases are processed in said exhaust system is determined in part from the concentration of one component fuel." The patent application was filed on March 5, 2008 (12/042,747). 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=8,161,732&OS=8,161,732&RS=8,161,732 Written by Arpi Sharma; edited by Anand Kumar.

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