Document Document Title
US07776377B2 Non-dairy, non-soy food product and methods of making
A food composition or product is described comprising a finely ground nut-seed component, a liquefying agent, and salt, combined with (a) baking soda and a starch; or (b) at least one sweetening agent; or (c) baking soda, a starch and at least one sweetening agent.
US07776375B2 Process for preparing an oil containing one or more long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from biomass; foodstuff or nutritional, cosmetic or pharmaceutical composition containing it
A stable oil containing LC-PUFAs in the form of triacylglycerols, in particular arachidonic acid (ARA), dihomogammalinolenic acid (DHGLA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) or eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), may be prepared by direct pressing of one or more biomasses obtained from the culture of a microorganism, especially of a fungus or of a microalga containing the acids ARA, DHGLA, DHA or EPA leading to a first press oil and by bringing a carrier oil entering into the composition of a foodstuff, a cosmetic or pharmaceutical product, into contact with the biomass cake, followed by pressing leading to a second press oil, and then by combining the pressed oils and refining the mixture under controlled conditions.
US07776373B2 Apparatus and method for the enhancement of food properties and food prepared therefrom
A method of enhancing food properties by electroporating a food using electrical pulses. The pulses are high-voltage pulses, and the food contains cells that become permeable from the electroporation. The food is exposed to food agents, which diffuse into the food's cells to enhance properties of the food.
US07776371B2 Methods and compositions for preparing consumables with optical shifting properties
Ingestible compositions comprising a chromic change agent together with methods of making and using them are provided. The chromic change agent alternatively may be associated with the ingestible, such as a packaging material for the ingestible. In response to a triggering event, physical or chemical, the chromic change agent changes color to provide information as to the history of the ingestible, either prior or contemporaneous with use. Depending on the use, the color change agent may be reversible or irreversible. Various solid or liquid ingestible compositions are provided for determining ingestible temperature, storage temperature, user temperature, light exposure, pH change, hydration or solvation change, mechanical stress, and the like, particularly in comestibles. Of particular interest are polydiacetylene polymers that may be formulated to provide compositions having numerous different color transition triggering mechanisms. The invention is also related to other chromic change agents that may be incorporated into ingestibles.
US07776367B2 Use in the cosmetics field of an extract of an exsudate of the plant Daniella oliveri, in particular as an antiwrinkle agent
The invention relates to the use, in a cosmetic composition or for the production of a cosmetic composition, of an extract of an exudate of the plant Daniellia oliveri, said exudate being at least partially made up of the oleoresin of said plant.It relates most particularly to the use of this extract as a cosmetic agent for modifying the surface of the skin by giving it a smoother appearance through a reduction in the depth of the wrinkles and/or fine lines and/or by providing it with a re-plumping effect.It also relates to a cosmetic care method for modifying the surface of the skin by giving it a smoother appearance through a reduction in the depth of the wrinkles and fine lines and/or by providing it with a re-plumping effect, comprising the application, to the areas of the skin in question, of a cosmetic composition containing this extract.
US07776366B2 Method and nutraceutical composition for mammals
A method is provided improving fertility in a mammal using glucosamine based composition. The composition is effective to improve fertility in mammals, including humans and stallions.
US07776364B2 Non-surgical method for treating cataracts in mammals including man
An anti-oxidant cocktail demonstrated efficacious in the treatment of avian and mammalian cataracts, useful for veterinary and human use as a veterinary or human pharmaceutical (to cure existing cataracts) or as a dietary supplement (to maintain a healthy, non-diseased state).
US07776362B2 Formulations for the decontamination of toxic chemicals
A decontaminant composition comprising a peroxide; an organic co-solvent; an amine, which in reaction with the peroxide is a source of a perhydrolysis species; a phase transfer catalyst comprising at least one quaternary ammonium compound; a metal oxide catalyst; a chemical base; and at least one pH buffering compound.
US07776359B1 Stereocomplex hydrogels
The invention relates to hydrogel compositions, which can be applied as biodegradable materials and to the processes to prepare such hydrogels. The hydrogel of the present invention comprises a stereocomplex gel structure which is the result of the interaction of oligomerized monomers of one chirality with that of oligomerized monomers of the opposite chirality, both grafted to hydrophilic polymers. The grafts form an interaction which is different from a covalent chemical interaction and thus provide the gel with the required coherence.
US07776357B1 Vesicle-based method for collecting, manipulating, and chemically processing trace macromolecular species
Disclosed is an apparatus and method for inserting one or several chemical or biological species into phospholipid containers that are controlled within a microfluidic network, wherein individual containers are tracked and manipulated by electric fields and wherein the contained species may be chemically processed.
US07776353B1 Conjugated linoleic acid compositions
The present invention relates the manufacture of conjugated linoleic acid, and in particular, to feeds and food products containing conjugated linoleic acid. Accordingly, processes for producing conjugated linoleic acid of high purity are disclosed. These processes utilize alcoholate catalysts and esters of sunflower oil, safflower oil, or corn oil as the source of linoleic acid. The esters of conjugated linoleic acid produced by the process can be used in animal feeds and in food products suitable for human consumption. Furthermore, the esters can be converted into free fatty acids or incorporated into triglycerides.
US07776351B2 Moisture curable materials for delivery of agents, methods, and medical devices
The present invention provides curable materials, medical devices incorporating such materials, wherein the curable materials are capable of releasing hydrolyzable leaving agents upon hydrolysis that can form agents (e.g., pharmaceutically active agents), and methods of making and using such materials and devices.
US07776339B2 Extract of R. miehei
Topical compositions comprising extracts of Rhizomucor miehei that are substantially devoid of acid-protease activity and their use in treating dermatologic conditions, including reducing the appearance of signs of skin aging.
US07776338B2 Adjuvant activities of mutants of LT-IIa and LT-IIb enterotoxin lacking binding to ganglioside
The present invention describes the adjuvant activity of mutants of LT-IIa and LT-IIb enterotoxin which lack ganglioside binding activity. The adjuvant activity of the LT-IIb(T13I) mutant is comparable to that of the wild type LT-IIb. The adjuvant activity of LT-IIa(T34I) mutant is also described which exhibits a late onset adjuvant activity. These mutants are useful for enhancing immune response to antigens.
US07776334B2 Parathyroid hormone receptor activation and hematopoietic progenitor cell expansion
The invention relates to methods for manipulating hematopoietic progenitor cells and related products. In one aspect the invention relates to the use of agents that activate a PTH/PTHrP receptor to enhance the growth and maintenance of hematopoietic progenitor cells in vivo and in vitro, to enhance mobilization of hematopoietic stem cells, to improve the efficiency of targeting cells to the bone marrow, and/or to modulate hematopoietic progenitor cell function.
US07776327B2 EphA2 as a therapeutic target for cancer
The present invention is directed to compounds and methods for the treatment of cancer. The compounds of this invention have specificity for EphA2, an epithelial cell tyrosine kinase that is overexpressed in metastatic tumor cells. The compounds used in accordance with this invention may be provided in a pharmaceutical composition for treatment of metastatic cancer.
US07776326B2 Methods and compositions for treating neuropathies
Methods of treating or preventing axonal degradation in neuropathic diseases in mammals are disclosed. The methods can comprise administering to the mammal an effective amount of an agent that acts by increasing sirtuin activity in diseased and/or injured neurons. The methods can also comprise administering to the mammal an effective amount of an agent that acts by increasing NAD activity in diseased and/or injured neurons. Also disclosed are methods of screening agents for treating a neuropathies and recombinant vectors for treating or preventing neuropathies.
US07776313B2 Methods of diagnosing and treating rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
The invention provides a novel cell that is a precursor of a fibroblast-like synovial cell. The novel cell is a circulating synovial tissue cell that stains positive for collagen, CD34, CD45, prolyl 4-hydroxylase and CD14. The invention also relates to methods of diagnosing or monitoring rheumatoid arthritis and/or osteoarthritis using gene expression profiles, protein expression profiles, and/or protein phosphorylation profiles of different cell types, including the novel precursor, CD3+ cells, synovial tissue fibroblast-like synovial cells and fibrocytes. The invention also includes methods to identify substances to treat or prevent rheumatoid arthritis and/or osteoarthritis.
US07776312B2 Method of treating Alzheimer's disease comprising administering deferoxamine (DFO) to the upper one-third of the nasal cavity
Methods and pharmaceutical compositions for preconditioning and/or providing neuroprotection to the animal central nervous system against the effects of neurological disorders involving ischemia, trauma, metal poisoning and neurodegeneration, including the associated cognitive, behavioral and physical impairments. In one embodiment, the method is accomplished by stimulating and/or stabilizing hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α). HIF-1α is known to provide a neuroprotective benefit under ischemic conditions. In another embodiment, the method is accomplished by differentially reducing, inhibiting or preventing the increased expression of selected genes caused by neurological disorders. Patients at risk for certain diseases or disorders that are associated with risk for cerebral ischemia may benefit, e.g., those at risk for Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Wilson's disease, Huntington's disease, thalassemia or stroke, or those patients having head or spinal cord injury. Patients undergoing certain medical procedures that may result in ischemia may also benefit. Initially, the possibility of ischemia or neurodegeneration is recognized. Intranasal therapeutic agents are administered to the upper third of the nasal cavity to bypass the blood-brain barrier and access the central nervous system directly to avoid unwanted and potentially lethal side effects. Therapeutic agents include those substances that interact with iron and/or copper such as iron chelators, copper chelators, and antioxidants. Particular examples of such therapeutic agents are the iron chelators deferoxamine (DFO) and deferasirox. Intranasal administration of DFO is known to stimulate and/or stabilize HIF-1α and provides an efficient and safe method for pre-conditioning the brain to protect against cerebral ischemia.
US07776311B1 D-amino acid peptides
The present invention provides compounds of the formula X—R1-D-[Dpr, Orn or Lys](A)-R2(Z)-D-[Dpr, Orn or Lys](B)—R3(Y)—NR4R5; or R1(X)-D-[Dpr, Orn or Lys](A)-R2(Z)-D-[Dpr, Orn or Lys](B)—R3(Y)—NR4R5, in which X is a hard acid cation chelator, a soft acid cation chelator or Ac-, R1, R2 and R3 are independently selected from a covalent bond or one or more D-amino acids that can be the same or different, Y is a hard acid cation chelator, a soft acid cation chelator or absent, Z is a hard acid cation chelator, a soft acid cation chelator or absent, and A and B are haptens or hard acid cation chelators and can be the same or different, and R4 and R5 are independently selected from the group consisting of hard acid cation chelators, soft acid cation chelators, enzymes, therapeutic agents, diagnostic agents and H. The present invention also provides methods of using these compounds and kits containing the compounds.
US07776308B2 Apparatus and method for operating the apparatus for continuously recovering sulfur from gas containing H2S
In an apparatus for continuously recovering sulfur from a gas stream containing 0.1 to 3.0 vol-% H2S, further gaseous sulfur compounds and sulfur, the gas stream first is passed over a reduction stage consisting of hydrogenation catalyst and then over a selective oxidation stage consisting of oxidation catalyst. To reduce the amount of apparatus involved, it is provided to arrange the reduction stage and the selective oxidation stage in a reaction tank and to leave a space for introducing a gaseous cooling medium into the gas stream between the two stages.
US07776306B2 Low energy method of preparing basic copper carbonates
A method of forming basic copper carbonates includes providing an aqueous solution comprising copper (II), ammonia, and carbonic acid; and adding sufficient carbon dioxide to precipitate a basic copper carbonate from the aqueous solution.
US07776298B2 Process and device for cleaning combustion flue gases
The invention relates to a process and a device for the removal of dust, HF, HCl, SO2, SO3, heavy metals, heavy-metal compounds, polyhalogenated hydrocarbons and polycyclic hydrocarbons from combustion flue gases by treating the pollutant-containing combustion flue gases with a sorbent in a circulating fluidized bed. The process is characterized in that the sorbent used is a mixture of Ca(OH)2, at least one naturally occurring zeolite and a carbon-containing substance, in that the treatment of the pollutant-containing combustion flue gases with the sorbent is carried out at from 120 to 180° C. in the presence of water/steam, in that the reactor (3) of the circulating fluidized bed is operated at a gas velocity of from 2 to 10 m/s, a mean residence time of the solids particles in the case of a single pass of from 1 to 10 seconds, and a solids circulation rate of from 10 to 100, where the gas/solid suspension present in the reactor (3) has a mean suspension density of from 1 to 10 kg of solid/Nm3 of flue gas, and in that the removal of the loaded sorbent is carried out by filtration.
US07776297B2 Multi-stage heat absorbing reactor and process for SCR or NOx and for oxidation of elemental mercury
A selective catalytic reduction apparatus has at least first and last catalyst layers in series for reducing nitrogen oxides in a flue gas, at least one interstage heat exchanger located after the first layer and before the last layer, that lowers flue gas temperature, and that acts as a mixing body to lower the standard deviation of the NH3/NO ratio entering catalyst layers after the first catalyst layer, thus providing better consumption of both ammonia and NOx in the reactor than would be achieved in the absence of the at least one interstage heat exchanger.
US07776296B2 Regeneration of ion exchangers that are used for salt removal from acid gas capture plants
A process for the removal of an amine capturable gas from a feed gas stream using an amine solvent, the process comprises (a) contacting the feed gas stream with a lean amine solvent to form a rich amine solvent, wherein heat stable salts are present in the rich amine solvent; (b) stripping amine capturable gas from the rich amine solvent to form the lean amine solvent and an overhead reflux stream; (c) periodically contacting at least a portion of one or both of the lean amine solvent and the rich amine solvent with an anion exchange resin to form a first heat stable salt lean amine solvent; (d) periodically regenerating the anion exchange resin, wherein during the regeneration of the anion exchange resin, at least a portion of the reflux stream is used to wash the amine solvent from the anion exchange resin to produce a second heat stable salt lean amine solvent; and, (e) recycling at least a portion of the first and the second heat stable salt lean amine solvent for use in capturing the amine capturable gas from the feed gas.
US07776295B2 Flying apparatus and method for removing harmful gases from the atmosphere
An apparatus for removing harmful gas components out of the earth's atmosphere is a free-flying autonomous lightweight aircraft with an onboard gas processing system including gas separation or extraction devices, and inlets and outlets connected to the devices. Solar cells and/or thermoelectric generators provided on the craft produce electrical energy to operate the individual devices. The system may include a cryogenic closed-loop circulation system that participates in liquefying the extracted gas components. The apparatus is preferably a lighter-than-air craft like a dirigible. A method of extracting harmful gas components from the atmosphere involves flying the apparatus at a prescribed altitude level and operating the gas processing system to remove the harmful gas component from the atmosphere, then returning the apparatus to earth to offload the liquefied stored harmful gas component.
US07776294B2 Air pollution reduction solution
An improved method of controlling air pollution, a combustion gas is passed through a solution of an alkaline-earth metal sulfide and a redox buffer (e.g., a mono alkaline-earth metal phosphate salt), preferably but not essentially in combination with an alkaline-earth metal carbonate FGD system. The reagents are provided in a fully soluble form enabling low cost application and retrofitting of existing facilities whilst also including alkaline-earth bases salts, which advantageously afford stability to the process product. The reagents co-precipitate when the solution achieves a pH of 4.5 to 6.5 such as is encountered in the acidic environment in conduits that carry combustion flue gases.
US07776284B2 Apparatus of catalyst-circulation type for decomposing waste plastics and organics, and system thereof
To provide a decomposition apparatus and a decomposition system which can prolong the catalyst life and which can efficiently decompose a large amount of waste plastics and organics.
US07776278B2 Apparatus and process for the gas-phase polymerization of olefins
Apparatus for the polymerization of olefins, in particular ethylene, comprising a gas-phase fluidized-bed reactor (1), a product offtake line (15) for taking polymer particles either continuously or discontinuously from the reactor (1), which line (15) is connected to a depressurization vessel (2) for separating polymer particles and gas, a recycle gas filter (3) for freeing the gas of entrained fine particles connected to the depressurization vessel (2), a compressor which compresses the gas which has been freed of fine particles and recirculates it into the reactor (1), with the recycle gas filter (3) having an inlet chamber (4) provided with a gas inlet (6), an outlet chamber (5) provided with a gas outlet (7), an essentially vertical sheet-like filter medium (9) for retaining the fine particles which separates the inlet chamber (4) from the outlet chamber (5) and a particle outlet (8). The inlet chamber (4) has a dividing wall (10) which is arranged essentially parallel to the filter medium (9) and separates the inlet chamber (4) into an inflow region (4a), which is connected to the gas inlet (6), and a filter region (4b) in which the filter medium is located and has an upper opening and a lower opening which are dimensioned so that from 60 to 90% of the volume flow flows through the upper opening so that flow along the filter medium (9) from the top downward results.
US07776276B1 Air filtering system for a vehicle passenger compartment
An air filtering system for a vehicle includes a housing having a fan, a HEPA filter, a carbon-impregnated military cloth and a scent dispersing mechanism received therein. Air intake modules are positioned at desired locations within the vehicle passenger compartment, each of which is in communication with the housing interior. To remove smoke or other pollutants, a passenger activates the fan to deliver ambient air to the housing interior whereby the HEPA filter removes particles while the charcoal cloth removes entrained odors. The housing also includes a fragrance dispenser for dispersing a scented material, if desired.
US07776275B2 Chemical feeder system and method
A chemical feeder system includes an aqueous chemical contained in a chemical source, the chemical source connected with a fluid stock through a chemical flow conduit and a feeder assembly connected within the chemical flow conduit that includes a metering device, a flow rate sensor and a controller operationally connected between the flow rate sensor and the metering device. A method of controlling the flow rate a treating chemical is applied to a fluid stock includes the steps of positioning a flow sensor upstream of a chemical metering device in a chemical flow conduit between a chemical source and fluid stock, flowing a treating chemical from the source through the chemical flow conduit, determining a desired application flow rate of the treating chemical and adjusting the metering device in response to a flow rate reading at the flow rate sensor to achieve the desired application flow rate.
US07776273B2 Laser capture microdissection (LCM) extraction device and device carrier, and method for post-LCM fluid processing
The present invention generally discloses an extraction system that provides a locale for fluid processing and extraction on a post-microcapture transfer film. The extraction system includes a transfer film carrier and an extraction device forming a reservoir. The extraction system selectively excludes regions of the transfer film from the reservoir to advantageously reduce contamination due to matter adhered to the transfer film by non-specific transfer.
US07776269B2 Capacitive based sensing of molecular adsorbates on the surface of single wall nanotubes
A sensing device having: a bottom electrode, a dielectric on the bottom electrode, a grid of nanoelectrodes on the dielectric, and a top electrode in electrical contact with the grid. A method of chemical or biological sensing comprising: providing a grid of nanoelectrodes; exposing the grid to fluid suspected of containing a chemical or biological analyte; and measuring a change in the capacitance and conductance of the grid.
US07776267B2 Centrifugal force-based microfluidic device for protein detection and microfluidic system including the same
A centrifugal force-based microfluidic device for the detection of a target biomolecule and a microfluidic system including the same are provided. The device includes a body of revolution; a microfluidic structure disposed in the body of revolution including chambers, channels connecting the chambers, and valves disposed in the channels to control fluid flow, the microfluidic structures transmitting fluid using centrifugal force due to rotation of the body of revolution; and beads disposed in the microfluidic structures, the beads having capture probes on the surfaces thereof which are selectively bonded with target protein; and a detection probe disposed in the microfluidic structures and selectively bonded to the target protein, and which includes a material required to express an optical signal, wherein the microfluidic structure mixes the beads, biological samples, and the detection probe to react and washes and separates the beads after the reaction.
US07776265B2 System for diagnosing reagent solution quality
A system for diagnosing the quality of a reagent solution may comprise a reagent solution source for supplying the reagent solution to an emissions catalyst of an internal combustion engine. Means may be provided for determining a quality value corresponding to the quality of the reagent solution. A first filter may receive the quality value and produce a first filtered quality value, and a first comparator may compare the filtered quality value to a threshold and produce a fault value if the first filtered quality value crosses the threshold. Alternatively or additionally, a second filter may receive the quality value and produce a second filtered quality value. A second comparator may compare a difference between the first and second filtered quality values to another threshold and produce another fault value if the difference crosses that threshold.
US07776264B2 Automatic analyzer
An automatic analyzer capable of replenishing a reagent even during an analysis and minimizing a suspension of the analysis. The automatic analyzer includes a plurality of reaction cells and a unit for holding reagents used in analyses. A plurality of reagents are dispensed to a sample in each reaction cell with a time difference to develop a reaction, and a liquid after the reaction is measured. After temporarily stopping the operation of dispensing the sample for a preset time during the analysis, the sample dispensing operation is restarted. Then, the sample dispensing operation is temporarily stopped again for the preset time at the timing in the dispensing of the reagent corresponding to the timing at which the sample dispensing operation was temporarily stopped. In the automatic analyzer, therefore, an analysis suspension due to registration and replacement of reagents during the analysis can be minimized, a larger number of reagents can be loaded, and a throughput per unit time can be increased.
US07776257B2 Titanium alloy having improved corrosion resistance and strength
A titanium alloy containing carbon with and without addition of silicon exhibiting improved corrosion resistance and mechanical strength as compared to commercially pure ASTM grade 2 titanium or PGM-alloyed ASTM grade 7 titanium.
US07776248B2 Socketing of pipe
A method of modifying compressive strains in formation of a pipe ring groove (16), in which a differential temperature profile is established across the pipe wall in a narrow bending locus (l3) corresponding to the ring groove position, and the material is bent to form the ring groove. The temperature differential creates a differential in elastic modulus between the inner and outer surfaces of the pipe material, modifying the strain induced in inner concave and outer convex surfaces of the ring groove during the bending step.
US07776245B2 Method of feeding molten resin and apparatus for feeding molten resin
An apparatus for feeding a molten resin is operated for extended periods of time maintaining stability without permitting volatile components of the molten resin to adhere on the surfaces of conveyer means. An extruder in the apparatus for feeding the molten resin to the compression-forming machine has an extrusion unit which discharges a molten resin through an extrusion opening of an extrusion nozzle. An air injection nozzle for injecting the cooling gas is provided along the outer circumference of the extrusion nozzle, and the cooling gas is blown onto the surface of the molten resin extruded from the extrusion opening to cool the surface of the molten resin.
US07776243B2 Recycled materials strengthening process, system and products
A method of forming a reinforced building product from garbage, comprising the steps of sorting garbage, shredding plastics within the garbage, shredding fibers within the garbage, heating the shredded plastics, forming a slurry from the plastics and fibers, disposing the slurry within an extrusion cavity, extruding the fluid through a venturi, and allowing the extruded materials to cool. Garbage is separated into plastics, fibers, and other materials. Plastics are shredded to facilitate melting. Fibers are shredded to macroscopic lengths no greater than a maximum internal diameter of a venturi. The plastics are melted. The melted plastics are mixed with fibers and other material to form a slurry that is extruded from a cavity through a venturi, thereby causing significant alignment of the shredded fibers within the slurry in an outer region of the extruded slurry. Cooled, there is reinforced building material.
US07776240B2 Injectable hydrogel microspheres from aqueous two-phase system
Injectable hydrogel microspheres are prepared by forming an emulsion where hydrogel precursors are in a disperse aqueous phase and polymerizing the hydrogel precursors. In a preferred case, the hydrogel precursors are poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate and N-isopropylacrylamide and the continuous phase of the emulsion is an aqueous solution of dextran and a dextran solubility reducer. The microspheres will load protein, e.g., cytokines, from aqueous solution.
US07776239B2 Polarized lens and method of making polarized lens
Method of making eyeglass lens are disclosed where the lens are made of layers which include an outer, convex hard coating, a layer of hard epoxy, a PVA film wherein the color is dipped in water without color dye, a layer of soft epoxy, a base material, and an inner, concave hard coating. Other methods configuration of lens also include a camouflaged patterned lens, a layer of hard epoxy, a polyurethane mixture, a PVA film wherein the color is dipped in water without color dye, a layer of soft epoxy, a base material, and an inner, concave hard coating.
US07776238B2 Methods and systems for leaching silicone hydrogel ophthalmic lenses
This invention includes methods and systems for processing hydrogel lenses using aqueous solutions as leaching aids.
US07776230B2 CMP system utilizing halogen adduct
The invention provides a chemical-mechanical polishing system for polishing a substrate comprising (a) a polishing component selected from an abrasive, a polishing pad, or both an abrasive and a polishing pad, (b) an aqueous carrier, and (c) the halogen adduct resulting from the reaction of (1) an oxidizing agent selected from the group consisting of iodine, bromine, and a combination thereof, and (2) a carbon acid having a pKa of about 3 to about 14, wherein the halogen adduct is present in a concentration of about 0.01 mM or more in the aqueous carrier. The invention also provides a method of polishing a substrate comprising (i) providing the aforementioned chemical-mechanical polishing system, (ii) contacting the substrate with the polishing system, and (iii) abrading at least a portion of the surface of the substrate with the polishing system to polish the substrate.
US07776227B2 Process for manufacturing micro- and nano- devices
A method of depositing or etching a micro- or nano-scale pattern on a work piece is disclosed, including the steps of: (a) placing the work piece in an electrochemical reactor in close proximity to a patterned tool; (b) connecting the work piece such that it is the anode if is to be etched or the cathode if it is to be deposited, and the patterned tool such that it is the counter electrode; (c) pumping electrolytic fluid necessary for the electrolytic operation of the cell formed between the two electrodes; and (d) applying a current across the electrodes to etch or deposit the work piece.
US07776226B2 Multi-chamber system having compact installation set-up for an etching facility for semiconductor device manufacturing
A multi-chamber system of an etching facility for manufacturing semiconductor devices occupies a minimum amount of floor space in a clean room by installing a plurality of processing chambers in multi-layers and in parallel along a transfer path situated between the processing chambers. The multi-layers number 2 to 5, and the transfer path can be rectangular in shape and need only be slightly wider than the diameter of a wafer. The total width of the multi-chamber system is the sum of the width of one processing chamber plus the width of the transfer path.
US07776224B2 Apparatus for treating ballast water and method for treating ballast water
The present invention relates to an apparatus for treating ballast water, the apparatus being capable of treating ballast water so as to meet the ballast water standard established by the IMO exactly at low costs. The treatment apparatus of the present invention comprises a filter (4) that filters sea water to trap aquatic organisms, a bactericide supply apparatus (5) that supplies bactericide to the filtrate sea water, and a venturi tube 7 that introduces the sea water to which the bactericide is added, to produce cavitation in the sea water, thereby diffusing the bactericide and also damaging and destroying aquatic organisms in the sea water.
US07776223B2 Method of collecting high-level radioactive uranium powder underwater
This present invention is related to a method of collecting high-level radioactive contaminated uranium powder underwater. It utilizes a long rod fixed to the pipe of the sewage pump at bottom, and takes another end of the sewage pump to connect to the sediment bag to collect uranium powder which is dispersed and contaminates the pond. Inhaling the pond water contains uranium powder into the sediment bag by sewage pump that is joined to a collecting can under it and waiting for precipitation of the powder. When the uranium powder in the sediment bag is completely precipitated into the collecting can, operator can utilize submersible pump to drain the pond water from the sediment bag. Operator may hold the cable wire of the uranium powder collecting can manually to move it to the collecting shelf and repeat the process several times until the high-level radioactive uranium powder in the contaminated pond are all collected on the uranium powder collecting shelf.
US07776222B2 Dockside water intake system for marine vessels
A method and apparatus for providing ballast water, cooling water, and/or auxiliary service water to a marine vessel is provided. The apparatus includes a plurality of pumps coupled to a docking facility. Each of the pumps collect water surrounding the docking facility and provides filtered water to the marine vessel as the vessel is moored. One or both of the docking facility and pumps may include a filtering device configured to prevent marine species from being entrained in the collected water.
US07776219B2 Methods, devices, and systems for hemodilution
Devices, methods, and system that prevent clotting of blood during blood-processing procedures such as hemofiltration, hemodialysis, and hemodiafiltration are described. A filter with a cap has a housing that is shaped to receive a blood filter. The housing has an inlet for blood and may have an outlet for waste and ultrafiltrate. The cap is attached to the housing. The cap has an outlet for blood and a port adjacent the outlet for receiving dilution fluid. Methods of use during blood-processing procedures to provide immediate hemodilution to blood exiting entering and/or exiting a filter are also described.
US07776213B2 Apparatus for enhancing venturi suction in eductor mixers
An apparatus is provided for suction of a secondary fluid into a primary fluid through one or multiple gaps in contact with a venturi. The venturi imparts a high velocity on the primary fluid to flow across a gap in contact with the venturi and draw in the secondary fluid. The apparatus employs a linear venturi with the flow area, or opening, in the form of a narrow ring or narrow rectangle to increase the length of the gap in contact with the venturi. One gap is provided and positioned in contact with one side of the narrow venturi opening, or two gaps are provided having one positioned in contact each side of the narrow venturi opening. The linear venturi is housed in assemblies referred to as “eductors.” Various eductor embodiments are provided including: 1), cylindrical housings with one or multiple concentric linear venturi with openings in the form of narrow rings; 2), rectangular housings with a single rectangular linear venturi with an opening in the form of a narrow rectangle, with multiple rectangular linear venturi with inlets positioned around a primary fluid inlet to flow radially outward through the multiple venturi, with multiple rectangular linear venturi with outlets positioned around a mixing chamber to cause circulation of the flow of fluids; 3), a cylindrical housing with linear venturi with an opening in the form of a narrow ring adapted for inserting into piping; and 4), cylindrical housings with linear venturi with an opening in the form of a wide ring adapted for installation in piping.
US07776211B2 System and method for biological wastewater treatment and for using the byproduct thereof
A wastewater treatment system and process includes a treatment system for biologically treating wastewater to produce substantially clean water effluent and byproducts. The treatment system includes an array of rotating media wheels for sustained algae growth. The media wheels are supported so that the algae rotates into and out of the wastewater for exposure to sunlight. One byproduct is algae removed from the rotating media wheels, which may be provided to other processing facilities to produce, for instance, bio-diesel fuel. Waste CO2 may also be provided to the facility for enhanced algae growth. Bacteria is provided to form a symbiotic relationship with the algae, fueled by sunlight to effectively remove toxic materials from the wastewater. Rotation of the media wheels can be accomplished by air jets that also operate to dislodge excess algae as a byproduct of the system and process.
US07776208B2 Integration of gasification, hydrocarbon synthesis unit, and refining processes
This disclosure discusses integrating syngas streams with refinery hydrotreators, synthetic hydrocarbon gas to liquid (GTL) processes, and power generation units (such as combined cycle units) to efficiently use hydrogen contained in the syngas produced from heavy hydrocarbons (pet coke, residues, oil, etc.). Membrane separation and pressure swing adsorption is used to separate components of syngas and feed them to refineries, GTL units, and power/steam generation units. Hydrogen-rich refinery purge is used to raise the H2/CO ratio of syngas. A hydrogen-enriched syngas is produced with an H2/CO ratio favorable for the production on synthetic hydrocarbons (greater than about 1.5 to about 2.0 or higher). Pure hydrogen is also produced in a PSA unit, to further raise the H2/CO ratio of the syngas and provide hydrogen feed for refinery hydrotreators and synthetic hydrocarbon units (such as methanol units).
US07776205B2 Process to upgrade hydrocarbonaceous feedstreams
The instant invention relates to a process to produce liquid products through the hydroprocessing of hydrocarbonaceous feedstreams in the presence of a bulk metal hydroprocessing catalyst.
US07776204B2 Ion exchange membrane electrolytic process
The invention provides an ion exchange membrane electrolytic process unlikely to undergo any current density drop even when brine having a concentration lower than usual. Electrolysis occurs while the concentration of an aqueous solution of an alkaline metal chloride in an anode chamber partitioned by a cation exchange membrane is set at 2.7 mol/l to 3.3 mol/l, and a gap is provided between the cation exchange membrane and the anode.
US07776202B2 Process for producing electrolytic manganese dioxide
This invention relates generally to a process of producing electrolytic manganese dioxide (EMD). More specifically, a method of producing EMD from geothermal brine solutions is provided. Methods for production of manganese dioxide from geothermal brines through an electrolytic process are also provided.
US07776199B2 Printed wiring board and production method thereof
The present invention provides a printed wiring board free from undercuts, which can be formed by an additive method without a dry treatment and a dry treatment apparatus, and a production method thereof. A printed wiring board of the present invention has a conductor circuit free from undercuts which is produced by carrying out additional plating to fill undercuts.
US07776197B2 High surface area palladium electrode coating
An electrode surface coating and method for manufacturing the electrode surface coating comprising a conductive substrate; and one or more surface coatings comprising one or more of the following metals titanium, niobium, tantalum, ruthenium, rhodium, iridium, palladium, or gold, or an alloy of two or more metals, or a combination of two or more alloys or metal layers thereof having an increase in the surface area of 5 times to 500 times of the corresponding surface area resulting from the basic geometric shape.
US07776196B2 Method for arranging particles and method for manufacturing light-emitting device
A method for arranging particles according to one aspect of the present invention comprises the steps of: forming a thin film on a surface of a substrate, the thin film being obtained by dispersing first particles made of metal in a material, a surface of the material is to be charged to a first polarity in a predetermined solution; dispersing second particles in the solution, the second particles being charged to a second polarity opposite to the first polarity; immersing the thin film in the solution; and irradiating the thin film with light having a wavelength which causes plasmon resonance with surface plasmons of the metal particles.
US07776195B2 Integrated sample processing platform
An integrated desktop analytic device comprises a fluidics station coupled to a confocal microscope detector, and a biochip is moved from the fluidics station to the detector without manual intervention of an operator.
US07776194B2 Gas concentration measuring apparatus designed to compensate for output error
A gas concentration measuring apparatus for use in air-fuel ratio control of motor vehicle engines is provided which is designed to select or determine a correction factor for an output of an A/F sensor, as produced through a sensor control circuit, for compensating for errors in circuit characteristics of the A/F sensor and/or the sensor control circuit to ensure the accuracy of measurement in the apparatus.
US07776193B2 Cell electrophysiological sensor
A cell electrophysiological sensor is provided with: a well having a wall formed by at least one curved face, with opening sections being formed on the two ends thereof; a frame substrate having a through hole and an electrode; a cell electrophysiological sensor chip that is provided with a thin plate having a second through hole; and a void substrate, and in this structure, the frame substrate has a thickness greater than the thickness of the cell electrophysiological sensor chip and the opening diameter of the third opening section is made larger than the opening diameter of the fourth opening section.
US07776192B2 Elongate vacuum system for coating one or both sides of a flat substrate
An elongate vacuum system for coating one or both sides of a flat substrate which can be displaced by the system, comprises at least one magnetron provided with a magnetron surrounding area and is subdivided into successive compartments in the direction of transportation of the substrate by separating walls having closeable suction openings. The compartments can be evacuated either directly by a vacuum connection provided on the compartment or indirectly via a suction opening in the separating wall. At least one compartment comprises an upper partial compartment which is arranged above the substrate. The partial compartment comprises a closeable upper opening in at least one of the outer walls thereof. The aim is to produce an elongate coating system which is flexible to use according to the requirements of various one and two-sided coating processes and ensures a stable, differential and process-optimized sputter atmosphere. At least in one of the upper partial compartments, horizontal and/or vertical elements can be mounted in order to subdivide the upper partial compartment into several sections.
US07776187B2 Belt having a non-linear seam and a method of on-machine joining of belt ends
An industrial belt having a non-linear seam adapted to be on-machine joinable. In a particular embodiment, the seam is made up of a opposite end regions of the belt having complementary projections, such as in the form of castellations, which engage at the seam, providing a completely integrated belt throughout the zone of the seam. In the field of papermaking, the belt of the invention can take the form of a transfer belt, whereby the invention provides a fully interlocking, strong seam which minimizes any potential mechanical or hydraulic sheet marking. The invention also includes a method of creating the end regions of the belt, seaming the belt, and casting the belt.
US07776183B2 Twin wire gap former paper making machine with variable wrap impingement shoe
A forming section for a gap blade former type papermaking machine having a headbox which delivers a jet of papermaking stock between a conveying forming fabric and a backing forming fabric is provided. The conveying fabric moves in sliding contact over an impingement shoe on which the jet of papermaking stock is delivered at a point of impingement. A forming shoe located immediately downstream of the impingement shoe over which the backing forming fabric slides. The impingement shoe is mounted for at least one of pivoting and transverse movement so that a position of the point of impingement of the jet of papermaking stock can be adjusted by at least one of rotating the impingement shoe about a first pivot point and transversely shifting the impingement shoe. The forming shoe can also be mounted for movement.
US07776177B2 Method for installing a roofing membrane
A method for affixing covering products to building structures is described. The covering product includes a thermoplastic membrane, a layer in which a fabric that includes an adhesive coating, and a release liner. The layer is affixed to a primary surface of the membrane. After the covering product is transported to the building structure, the release liner is removed, and the covering produce is adhered to the building structure.
US07776174B2 Embossed headliner and method of making same
An interior trim component, such as a headliner, includes a decorative covering, a substrate and a piece of a material, such as foam material, placed between the decorative covering and the substrate. After the molding process, the piece of material expands due to its resiliency to form a raised relief in the decorative covering, thereby providing a headliner with an embellished appearance. The method of manufacturing the embossed headliner requires no special tooling and is very cost effective.
US07776171B2 Arrangement and method for treatment of a material by means of an ultrasonic device
An arrangement (1) for the treatment of a material (7, 8; 7′, 8′; 7″, 8″; 18) having at least two layers of material by an ultrasonic device (2) having an ultrasonic horn (3) arranged in conjunction with an abutment (5), in conjunction with which the material (7, 8; 7′, 8′; 7″, 8″; 18) is positioned in a gap (6) that is defined between the ultrasonic horn (3) and the abutment (5), and the ultrasonic horn (3) and/or the abutment (5) is/are so arranged as to be capable of displacement to permit adjustment of the size of the gap (6), for which purpose the arrangement (1) also includes a control unit (13) for the regulation of the size of the gap (6) dependent on the energy supplied to the material in the course of the treatment. The arrangement further includes a detection device (16) for the determination of at least one predetermined dimension (b1; d1; b3) of the material (7, 8; 7′, 8′; 7″, 8″; 18), in conjunction with which the control unit (13) is arranged for the regulation of the size of the gap (6) dependent on at least the dimension (b1; d1; b3).
US07776165B1 Method of modifying a workpiece following laser shock processing
A method of manufacturing a workpiece involves performing any one of various post-processing part modification steps on a workpiece that has been previously subjected to laser shock processing. In one step, material is removed from the compressive residual stress region of the processed workpiece. Alternately, the workpiece may be provided with oversized dimensions such that the removal process removes an amount of material sufficient to generate a processed workpiece having dimensions substantially conforming to design specifications. Alternately, the material removal process is adapted to establish a penetration depth for material removal that coincides with the depth at which the workpiece exhibits maximum compressive residual stress. Alternately, a first high-intensity laser shock processing treatment is performed on the workpiece, followed by the removal of material from the compressive residual stress region, and then a second low-intensity laser shock processing treatment is performed on the workpiece. Material may be removed from the compressive residual stress region through a workpiece surface different from the laser shock processed surface. Material may also be deposited onto the laser shock processed surface.
US07776161B2 Cold-rolled steel sheet excellent in workability
The present invention provides a steel sheet excellent in workability, which may be used for components of an automobile or the like, and a method for producing the same. More specifically, according to one exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a steel sheet excellent in workability, including in mass, 0.08 to 0.25% C, 0.001 to 1.5% Si, 0.01 to 2.0% Mn, 0.001 to 0.06% P, at most 0.05% S, 0.001 to 0.007% N, 0.008 to 0.2% Al, at least 0.01% Fe. The steel sheet having an average r-value of at least 1.2, an r-value in the rolling direction of at least 1.3, an r-value in the direction of 45 degrees to the rolling direction of at least 0.9, and an r-value in the direction of a right angle to the rolling direction of at least 1.2.
US07776159B2 Methods and apparatus for controlling a dishwasher
A control system for controlling a fill operation of a dishwasher having a pump and a pump motor driving the pump, and the dishwasher having a valve for controlling the flow of water to the dishwasher includes a monitoring device configured to be coupled to at least one of the pump and the pump motor. The monitoring device generates an output relating to at least one of an operating current and a speed of the pump motor. The control system also includes a controller configured to be operatively coupled to the valve, wherein the controller receives the output and is configured to operate the valve based on the output. The output relates to a fill condition of the dishwasher.
US07776154B2 Preparation method of a coating of gallium nitride
The invention concerns a monocrystalline coating crack-free coating of gallium nitride or mixed gallium nitride and another metal, on a substrate likely to cause extensive stresses in the coating, said substrate being coated with a buffer layer, wherein: at least a monocrystalline layer of a material having a thickness ranging between 100 and 300 nm, preferably between 200 and 250 nm, and whereof crystal lattice parameter is less than the crystal lattice parameter of the gallium nitride or of the mixed gallium nitride with another metal, is inserted in the coating of gallium nitride or mixed gallium nitride with another metal. The invention also concerns the method for preparing said coating. The invention further concerns electronic and optoelectronic devices comprising said coating.
US07776148B2 Hardenable mixture based on products of hydrolysis of organosilanes and blocked polyisocyanates
Curable compositions with at least one hydrolyzis products from an organosilane of a general formula R1aR2bSiX(4-a-b, or oligomer therefrom, wherein R1 represents a non-hydrolyzable radical, R2 represents a non-hydrolyzable radical that includes a functional group and X represents similar or different radicals that are hydroxyl-groups and hydrolyzable products of substitution reactions of hydroxyl groups and wherein a is 0 or 1, b is 0 to 3 and the sum of a and b can be 1, 2 or 3, and at least one substituent R2 is an epoxy group and at least one blocked polyisocyanate. The invention also includes mixtures which contain pigments and/or fillers, the process for the production of crosslinked masses through reaction of the hydrolyzis products, namely modified polysiloxanes, with blocked polyisocyanates as well as therewith produced coatings and molded bodies.
US07776144B2 Ink and ink set for inkjet recording
To provide inks and ink sets for inkjet recording, which have good fastness and good jet-out stability and which give good images with no bleeding trouble, yellow ink, black ink and magenta ink for inkjet printing contain at least two dyes each having an oxidation potential over 1.0 V (vs SCE).
US07776142B2 Bubble damper of slurry supply apparatus
Provided is a bubble damper of a slurry supply apparatus, more particularly, a bubble damper of a slurry supply apparatus in which a bubble damper removes bubbles generated by a slurry supply apparatus. The bubble damper system includes a slurry drum in which slurry is stored, a vessel to which the slurry is supplied from the slurry drum, and a bubble damper that is provided between the slurry drum and the vessel. The bubble damper collects bubbles generated from the slurry that is supplied from the slurry drum.
US07776134B2 Molten metal treatment, method for treating molten metal, and apparatus and method for feeding cover gas to molten metal
A molten metal treatment consisting of a liquid mixture in which fluorinated ketone is dissolved in liquid carbon dioxide at 0.01 to 10 wt % is put in a container, and the molten metal treatment is vaporized, and is fed as a cover gas to be contacted with the surface of a molten metal.
US07776133B2 Method of operating non-ferrous smelting plant
In the operation, a flux mainly composed of silica ore and a non-ferrous metal-ore raw-material are charged into a smelting furnace via a conveying system. In order to increase the production amount of the metal, the flux is conveyed and treated through a first system, in which the flux is crushed in a ball mill and dried in the bail mill, and the crushed and dried flux is conveyed directly before the smelting furnace. The non-ferrous metal ore is treated and conveyed through a second system, in which it is dried with a drier and then conveyed directly before the smelting furnace. In the drier of copper concentrate, the flux is not dried at all.
US07776131B2 Manufacturing method for oxide dispersed alloy
A manufacturing method for an oxide-dispersed alloy wherein dispersed particles consisting of oxides of one or two or more additive metals are dispersed in a matrix metal, comprising the steps of (a) manufacturing alloy powder or an alloy wire rod consisting of the matrix metal and the additive metal; (b) oxidizing the additive metal in the alloy powder by water to form dispersed particles by introducing the alloy powder or alloy wire rod into a high-energy ball mill with water and by making agitation; and (c) moldedly solidifying the alloy powder or alloy wire rod after oxidation. The present invention is especially useful in manufacturing oxide-dispersed alloys in which the free energy of oxide formation of the matrix metal is higher than water standard free energy of formation, and the free energy of oxide formation of the additive metal is lower than water standard free energy of formation.
US07776129B2 Apparatus and process for making high purity nickel
An improved method of reducing a mixed metal oxide composition comprising oxides of nickel, cobalt, copper and iron in a hydrogen atmosphere to produce a mixture of the respective metals, the improvement wherein the atmosphere further comprises water vapour at a concentration, temperature and time to effect selective reduction of the oxides of nickel cobalt and copper relative to the iron oxide to produce the metallic mixture having a reduced ratio of metallic iron relative to metallic nickel, cobalt and copper.
US07776127B2 Use of a channel induction furnace to process at least one of a molten metal product, a vapor phase metal product and a slag product from a variety of feed materials
A method of operating a channel induction furnace to process a feed material and obtain therefrom at least one of a molten metal product, a vapor phase metal product and a slag product. The method involves the use a variety of feed materials that contribute to the molten metal product and/or the vapor phase metal product and/or the slag product and/or function as a binder for briquetting or pelletizing the feed material.
US07776121B2 Dust collecting unit of vacuum cleaner
Provided is a dust collector of a vacuum cleaner. The dust collector includes a dust separating unit forming a separation space for separating dust from air, a collector body forming a dust storage for storing the dust separated in the dust separating unit, and a dust guide passage connecting the separation space to the dust storage and guiding the separated dust to be discharged from the separation space in a tangential direction.
US07776116B2 Cyclone dust-separating apparatus of vacuum cleaner
A cyclone dust-separating apparatus of a vacuum cleaner is disclosed. The cyclone dust-separating apparatus includes at least one cyclone having a cyclone body, which rotates air to separate dust or dirt therefrom, which has an air inflow part and an air discharging part, and which is installed in such a manner that a longitudinal axis thereof is substantially horizontally arranged, and a dust collecting unit to store the dust or dirt separated by the cyclone unit. The cyclone body is formed in a convex cylinder shape, so that a diameter thereof in the vicinity of an entrance of the air discharging part through which the air is discharged comes maximum.
US07776115B2 Multi cyclone dust-separating apparatus of vacuum cleaner
A multi cyclone dust-separating apparatus is disclosed that includes a cyclone unit having a first cyclone, a plurality of second cyclones, and a dust collecting unit. The first cyclone is disposed so that a longitudinal axis thereof is substantially vertically arranged. The first cyclone separates relatively large dust or dirt from air drawn in through a first air inflow part. Each of the second cyclones is disposed so that longitudinal axes thereof are substantially vertically arranged. Each of the second cyclones has a second air inflow part to communicate with the first cyclone and an air discharging part to discharge the air. The second cyclones separate relatively minute dust or dirt from the air drawn in through the second air inflow part. The dust collecting unit is disposed below the cyclone unit to collect and store the dust or dirt separated from the air by the cyclone unit.
US07776114B2 Process and apparatus for the endothermic gasification of carbon
A process for the endothermic gasification of solid carbon in an entrained bed facility comprises partial oxidation of fuel(s) and endothermic gasification of solid carbon, preferably preceded by low temperature carbonization such that the carbonization gas is passed to the partial oxidation and the carbonization coke is passed to the endothermic gasification. The hot gas streaming downwardly from the combustion chamber is deflected to produce separation of the liquid slag and is then passed to the endothermic gasification that operates with a rising gas stream and with addition of solid carbon having a grain diameter of up to 20 mm. The speed of the gas at the carbon inlet is higher than, and the speed of the gas at the end of the endothermic gasification is lower than, the suspension rate of the reactive carbon particles, to produce an increase of the relative speed difference between the gas and the carbon particles. Apparatus is also disclosed for carrying out the process.
US07776109B2 Method for producing acylphosphine oxide solids
The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of solid acylphosphine oxides by converting an acylphosphine oxide which is in the form of a melt or in dispersed form into the solid state of aggregation with mechanical stress, shearing/internal agitation of the melt.
US07776101B2 Soft tissue defect repair device
An inguinal hernia repair device in the form of an implantable plug that is affixed at one end to the center region of a sheet of implantable material. The plug takes the form of a plurality of hollow members, arranged so as to be in substantially parallel relationship when implanted into a defect. The hollow members are preferably tubular members and are preferably bundled together by various means, such as bonding or wrapping a band or strand about the plurality of hollow members to maintain them in adjacent and contacting relationship during insertion into a defect. The device is provided with a base member for anchorage made of a composite material having a non-bioabsorable component and a bioabsorbable component.
US07776099B2 Bone implant and device for forming a socket for same
A bone implant having a core section to which a prosthesis is eventually secured, and rib-like projections or anchoring prongs enhancing the hold of the implant in the bone. The invention is particularly, but not exclusively, intended as a dental implant. The socket for the implant is drilled in a bone using a suitable template which is subsequently inserted in an original pre-drilled bore and which serves as a guide for subsequent drilling of bores for the anchoring prongs or rib-like projections. Several different types of the templates are disclosed together with a number of compatible implants. A specific tool is also disclosed which reduces the damage to the bone by reducing the volume of the initial portion of the socket adapted to receive the associated template.
US07776095B2 Spinal system and method including lateral approach
Embodiments of the invention include devices and methods for implanting a vertebral body spacer. A lateral surgical approach is contemplated with some disclosed procedures. Instruments of some embodiments are insertable into a disc space to achieve distraction, to determine a desired disc space height, and to select a corresponding implant.
US07776087B2 Intraocular implants
An intraocular implant including a sealed capsule adapted for intraocular placement upstream of a retina, an electronic display located within the sealed capsule, electronic circuitry located within the sealed capsule for operating the electronic display, the electronic circuitry and the electronic display operative to selectably provide multiple display options, the multiple display options including allowing at least some light from the outside to pass through the electronic display and focusing optics located within the sealed capsule.
US07776086B2 Aspherical corneal implant
A corneal implant having an aspheric surface for modifying the cornea curvature and altering the corneal refractive power. The corneal implant has a lens body formed of an optically clear bio-compatible material, preferably with an index of refraction substantially similar to that of human corneal tissue (1.376). The aspheric surface is comprised of a continuous aspheric surface from the apex of the implant to beveled surface. The beveled surface, positioned near the outer diameter of the implant, is used to reduce the thickness of the aspheric surface on the periphery of the lens to the outer diameter edge. The body of the implant has a diameter between about 2.0 mm and 7.0 mm and a thickness less than about 0.150 mm.
US07776085B2 Knee prosthesis with ceramic tibial component
An improved knee prosthesis includes a ceramic tibial component for articulation with natural or prosthetic (re-surfaced) femoral surfaces. The ceramic tibial component is provided in the form of a ceramic monoblock adapted for fixation relative to the patient's tibial bone, or alternately in the form of a ceramic bearing insert component carried by a tibial baseplate member which is adapted in turn for fixation relative to tibial bone. In either form, the ceramic tibial component includes at least one upwardly concave articulation surface for movable bearing engagement by a generally convex or condylar shaped femoral articulation surface. The ceramic tibial component provides improved wear characteristics with extended service life.
US07776084B2 Prosthetic mitral heart valve having a contoured sewing ring
A prosthetic mitral heart valve including a contoured sewing ring that better matches the mitral valve annulus. The sewing ring includes an inflow end and an outflow end, the outflow and having at least one raised portion. There may be two raised portions located approximately 120° apart from each other and designed to register with two anterior trigones of the mitral valve annulus. The sewing ring may be formed by a suture-permeable annular member surrounded by a fabric covering, the annular member desirably being molded of silicone. The raised portion(s) may gently curve upward to a height of about 2 mm above the adjacent portions of the outflow end of the sewing ring. The sewing ring may also be constructed so as to be more flexible around a posterior aspect than around an anterior aspect to accommodate calcified tissue more commonly found around the posterior annulus. The contoured sewing ring can be combined with various types of heart valve including bioprosthetic and mechanical valves. A bioprosthetic heart valve of the present invention may include a support stent having three outflow commissures alternating with three inflow cusps, with two of the commissures being located at the same place as two raised portions of the sewing ring. A method of implant includes tilting the prosthetic heart valve in the mitral annulus so that a posterior commissure angles away from the ventricular wall and reduces the chance of contact therebetween.
US07776079B2 Conical balloon for deployment into side branch
A bifurcated catheter assembly has an undeployed state and a deployed state. The assembly comprises a bifurcated inflation shaft defining a shaft inner lumen, a first balloon defining a first balloon lumen, and a second balloon defining a second balloon lumen. The inflation shaft has a first inflation shaft defining a first lumen and a second inflation shaft defining a second lumen. The first balloon defines a first balloon lumen which is in fluid communication with the first lumen. The second balloon defines a second balloon lumen which is in fluid communication with the second lumen. The second balloon has a conical shape.
US07776075B2 Expandable spinal rods and methods of use
A spinal rod having first and second end members. The end members may be flexible or rigid. An expandable intermediate section is positioned between the first and second end members. The intermediate section may be axially expandable upon the introduction of a substance into a port that may be located in either of the first and second end members or the intermediate section. The intermediate section may be expandable between a first size, where the first and second end members are spaced a first distance apart, and a second enlarged size, where the first and second end members are spaced a second greater distance apart.
US07776074B2 Procedure for aligning and stabilizing bone elements
The magnitude of the force that can be created when each of a plurality of bone elements, such as the vertebrae of the human spine, is brought into alignment and stabilized by a corrective appliance comprising bone fasteners, such as pedicle screws attached to the bone elements, and one or more aligning devices, such as fixation rods, is measured and constrained. The force required to bring the bone element into alignment with the aligning device is maintained below a selected magnitude. In some instances, in order to maintain the magnitude of the force below the selected magnitude, it may be necessary to make an adjustment so that the bone fastener can be secured to a respective aligning device without increasing the force to or beyond the selected magnitude.
US07776072B2 System and method for aligning vertebrae in the amelioration of aberrant spinal column deviation conditions
A system and method for ameliorating spinal column anomalies, such as scoliosis, includes bone screws which are to be implanted in the pedicle region(s) of individual to-be-derotated vertebrae and in vertebrae to which balancing forces must be applied as the spinal column is manipulated en mass to achieve an over-all correction of the condition. A pedicle screw cluster derotation tool simultaneously engages multiple pedicle screws and transmits manipulative forces to multiple vertebrae to effect a whole-spine correction. Pre-contoured spinal rods are engaged post-derotation to secure the correction.
US07776071B2 Flexible vertebral linking device
A flexible intervertebral linking device (1) is provided. The device (1) utilizes two sets of structures. A first structure (11) is a rigid structure (110, 112, 114, 116) preferably made of biocompatible metallic materials providing the device with good mechanical resistance by integral load transmission without deformation. A second structure (12) is a flexible or damping structure (121 and 122) made of biocompatible viscoelastic materials, permitting repeated elastic deformations. The combination of the two structures providing the device with both resistance and mechanical dampening of forces to which it is subjected, with the purpose of compensating for any deficiency in the flexibility of certain anatomical links of the human body.
US07776070B2 Occipital plating systems and methods
An occipital plating system includes an occipital plate extending along a medial-lateral oriented axis when engaged to the occiput. The plate body includes a housing portion and at least one wing portion extending from the housing portion that is adjustable relative to the housing portion along the medial-lateral axis. The plate body further includes receiving members mounted to the plate body that receive connecting elements extending along the spinal column to the occiput.
US07776067B2 Polyaxial bone screw with shank articulation pressure insert and method
A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper portion, a receiver member or head, a retaining and articulating structure, and a pressure insert disposed between the shank upper portion and a rod. The receiver has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod and a receiver cavity. The retaining and articulating structure attaches to the shank and rotates with the shank in the cavity during positioning. The pressure insert presses upon the shank upper portion and not the retaining and articulating structure.
US07776064B2 Tourniquet article
The present invention relates generally to first aid articles and more specifically tourniquets. One embodiment of the claimed subject matter includes a tourniquet article comprising a base, a cap disposed on said base, a strap having one free end and one end attached to said base, a buckle attached to said base, a handle with an aperture to accommodate a portion of said strap, a ring attached to said base positioned adjacent to said base, wherein said tourniquet article is positioned around a limb, wherein said free end of said strap is pulled through both said ring and said handle aperture whereby said article is initially tightened around the limb, wherein said handle is turned until adequate pressure is applied to the limb, and wherein once adequate pressure is applied to the limb, one end of said handle is inserted into said ring to secure the tightened tourniquet in place. Another embodiment includes a safety screw disposed in said buckle, wherein said screw is tightened to prevent said strap from slipping. Another embodiment has a ring that is movable along the base. Another embodiment of the tourniquet article further includes a second ring disposed on said base positioned adjacent to said buckle.
US07776062B2 Self-activating endoluminal device
An improved endoluminal device. The device includes at least a control element (such as a guide wire) connected to a surrounding sheath and an elastic bias section to control changes to a bias force formed between the control element and the sheath. By applying an external force at a proximal end of the device, the shape can change between varying degrees of deformed shapes and an undeformed shape. In this way, both ease of insertion into the body lumen and anchoring to the lumen is promoted. A distal end of the assembly can be made to change shape for improved steerability, anchoring or both. In a particular form, the anchoring section can work as a floating parachute-like device to pull the assembly by means of the flow in the body lumen, while in a more particular form, the floating parachute-like device may be modified to act as a filter for trapping emboli.
US07776051B2 System and method for displacement of bony structures
Systems and methods for displacing bony structures relative to each other using a single device is disclosed. Displacement includes distraction and compression. Bony structures are engaged with displacement arms. The user selects one of a plurality of manners in which to manipulate a user interface, where a first manner results in compression and a second manner results in distraction. The user interface is manipulated in the selected manner until a desired amount of displacement has been reached. This displacement is performed in a manner that is minimally invasive to the patient.
US07776050B2 Insertion instrument for a pair of sliding prostheses
An insertion instrument for a pair of sliding prostheses has, on a support plate, two clamps which are arranged at a predetermined spacing from one another and receive the sliding prostheses. The clamps are connected to the support plate via a releasable coupling and may be provided in any position in the lateromedial (LM) direction, i.e. the clamps can adopt different positions in the LM direction. They are clamped securely in the respectively chosen position by a fixing device.
US07776046B2 Method and instrumentation for vertebral interbody fusion
A method and instrumentation particularly adapted for disc space preparation from an anterior approach to the spine. In one aspect, an expandable template is provided having guides to guide a cutting device for bilateral formation of openings in the disc space. In another aspect, an improved guide member is provided for guiding a cutting tool. Still further, the invention provides an improved double barrel guide sleeve with a central distraction extension and lateral non-distracting extensions. Optionally, the guide sleeve includes windows and covers to selectively cover the windows. An improved reamer with an internal chamber and optional modular coupling is also provided. A depth stop is provided to selectively engage a tool shaft and a guide sleeve to control tool penetration into the disc space. A method of using the disclosed instruments is also provided.
US07776044B2 Tibial tray inserter
A tibial tray inserter for use during knee joint replacement surgery is provided.
US07776043B2 Osteochondral implant fixation procedure and bone dilator used in same
A surgical procedure for implanting a graft according to which a dilator is inserted in a recipient opening and the graft is inserted in the dilator to cause outward expansion of the dilator into engagement with the portion of a bone surrounding the opening. After the dilator is removed from the opening, the bone surrounding the opening collapses around the graft to secure the graft in the opening.
US07776042B2 Methods and apparatus for provision of therapy to adjacent motion segments
Disclosed are methods and apparatus for the provision of spinal therapy to two or more adjacent motion segments accessed through a trans-sacral approach. The spinal therapies include fusion and dynamic stabilization with and without a distraction of the most cephalad motion segment of the two or more adjacent motion segments provided therapy. The disclosure includes methods and apparatus to impart a distraction on a second more caudal motion segment after providing therapy to the more cephalad motion segment. Related concepts for the extraction of previously inserted devices and the delivery and removal of plugs for plugging the interior cavities of implantable devices are disclosed.
US07776041B1 Method and apparatus for implanting a suture anchor
An apparatus and method for delivering biologic material to a bone hole includes a delivery structure defining a proximal end and a distal end. The delivery structure includes a first longitudinal member defining a first cavity and extending between the distal and proximal end. A second longitudinal member is disposed around the first longitudinal member and extends between the distal and proximal end. The first and second longitudinal members define a second cavity therebetween. The first cavity is adapted to receive a flexible member therethrough. The second cavity is adapted to receive the biologic material and deliver the biologic material out of the distal end into the bone hole. The first longitudinal member precludes the biologic material from contacting the flexible member while the biologic material is delivered to the bone hole.
US07776039B2 Anterior cruciate ligament tether
A device and method to provide a surgically inserted internal tether between the femur and tibia is provided which will prevent distraction of the healing anterior cruciate ligament in all degrees of flexion and extension, at all times. The anterior cruciate ligament tether preserves the four-bar cruciate linkage, critical for normal knee mechanics. In addition, placement of the tether provides bleeding into the knee in the region of the anterior cruciate ligament attachment sites and the consequent inflow of pluripotential cells and healing mediators.
US07776022B2 Apparatus and methods for making, storing, and administering freeze-dried materials such as freeze-dried plasma
A freeze-dried material is stored in a first chamber of a container along with a reconstituting liquid for the freeze-dried material, which is stored in a second chamber of the container. A sealing wall within the container forms a barrier between the first chamber and the second chamber preventing contact between the freeze-dried material and the reconstituting liquid. At least one valve assembly in the sealing wall selectively opens a region of the sealing wall to establish fluid flow communication between the first and second chambers, allowing the freeze dried material to be reconstituted. The reconstituted freeze-dried material can be administered from the same container to a recipient.
US07776020B2 Absorbent articles having an aliphatic-aromatic copolyester film
An absorbent article comprising a laminated outer cover is disclosed. The laminated outer cover comprises an aliphatic-aromatic copolyester film including a filler material. The aliphatic-aromatic copolyester films have suitable breathability, vapor transfer and tensile strength properties while being substantially biodegradable.
US07776019B2 Breast milk absorbent pad
A breast milk absorbent pad which includes first and second sections adapted to cover respective breasts and a third section extending between these first and second sections wherein at least one of upper and lower edges of the third section is concavely curved toward a transverse axis of the breast milk absorbent pad.
US07776017B2 Catheter clamp
The present invention is directed to a catheter clamp that is affixable to a patient's skin to hold a catheter in position while in use within a patient's body. In one embodiment, the clamp has a base adapted to be removably adhered to the patient's skin, two clamp members supported on the base and defining a region therebetween to receive the catheter body, the clamp members being adapted to move between an open position and a closed position, and locking means for releasably locking said clamp members in said closed position to hold the catheter body in a generally fixed position relative to said clamp. In another embodiment, the clamp includes a base adapted to be removably adhered to the patient's skin, two clamp members supported on the base and defining a space therebetween to receive the catheter body, the clamp members being adapted to move between an open position and a closed position, and an elongated release tab extending between the two clamp members and configured to releasably lock the clamp member around the catheter body. The two clamp members may be pivotably coupled to each other and the tab may be pivotably attached on one of the clamp members.
US07776009B2 Breast cup
A breast cup for use with a breast pump for expressing breast milk is provided. The breast cup sealingly separates the air flow from the breast milk, provides a barrier against impingement of the flexible insert by the user's breast and provides a massaging member for facilitating expression of the breast milk.
US07776008B2 Manual breast pump
A manually actuated breast pump is provided. The breast pump has a breast cup, pump mechanism and a container. The components of the breast pump are easily assembled and disassembled to facilitate use, cleaning, manufacture and transport. The breast pump can apply a negative pressure, a positive pressure or both to a user's breast. The breast pump provides fluid isolation between the pressure source and the expressed milk.
US07776007B2 Device for readying a needle free injector for delivery
A needle-free injector device comprising a latch having a safe position which disables the triggering of the device, and a ready position which restrains movement of a dispensing member but enables triggering and a triggered position which permits movement of the dispensing member is disclosed. An additional safety mechanism blocks the triggering of the device until removed. A cap is provided to maintain the sterility and stability of the drug formulation and is configured such that the cap removal is required prior to placing the device in a ready to trigger state.
US07776006B2 Medical fluid pumping system having real time volume determination
A medical fluid pumping system includes a medical fluid pump; a first pressure chamber connected fluidly to the medical fluid pump; a second pressure chamber connected fluidly to the medical fluid pump; first and second pressure sensors connected operably to the first and second pressure chambers, respectively; and at least one processor operable with the pressure sensors to calculate a volume of gas in the medical fluid pump prior to a pump-out stroke using a reading from the first pressure sensor after exposing the pump to gas pressure from the first pressure chamber and to use the calculated volume of gas in combination with a known volume of the second pressure chamber and a pressure decay reading taken via the second pressure sensor during the pump-out stroke to calculate at least one volume of fluid pumped during the pump-out stroke.
US07776005B2 Triple lumen catheter with occlusion resistant tip
A catheter is provided that includes an elongated tubular body extending to a distal end. The tubular body has a first and a second lumen with a septum disposed therebetween. The tubular body includes a first wall that defines the first lumen and a second wall that defines the second lumen. A portion of the septum extends distally beyond the first lumen and the second lumen. The first wall includes a first wall extension that extends distally beyond the first lumen and is spaced apart from the portion of the septum. The first wall extension defines a concave surface facing the portion of the septum. In an alternate embodiment, the catheter includes a tip with spiraled configuration. The catheter may include a third lumen.
US07776000B2 Non-invasive system for fixing navigational reference
A fixing system and method for fixing a navigational reference array for image-assisted medical treatment with respect to a patient, wherein the reference array is arranged the patient's body with the assistance of an immobilizing device, and wherein the immobilizing device is a vacuum mattress or a vacuum mattress patient jacket, and at least one anchoring for the reference array is provided on or in the vacuum mattress or a vacuum mattress patient jacket.
US07775997B2 Non-electrical driven dental hygiene pulsating sprayer
A dental hygiene pulsating sprayer has a handle and a pulsating engine having a turbine rotor. The handle is adapted to connect to a water source. The turbine rotor is rotatably received in the pulsating engine and has a curved wall, a top cover and multiple extension blades. The top cover is attached to the curved wall to construct a circle in cooperation with the curved wall. The extension blades are formed on and extend radically from the top cover and the outer periphery of the curved wall. Accordingly, the sprayer can provide a pulsating massage effect and is not driven by electrical power.
US07775994B2 Ultrasound medical systems and related methods
Ultrasound medical systems and related methods are described.
US07775993B2 Detecting sleep
A system includes one or more sensors and a processor. Each of the sensors generates a signal as a function of at least one physiological parameter of a patient that may discernibly change when the patient is asleep. The processor monitors the physiological parameters, and determines whether the patient is asleep based on the parameters. In some embodiments, the processor determines plurality of sleep metric values, each of which indicates a probability of the patient being asleep, based on each of a plurality of physiological parameters. The processor may average or otherwise combine the plurality of sleep metric values to provide an overall sleep metric value that is compared to a threshold value in order to determine whether the patient is asleep.
US07775992B2 Bending resistant male connector for a guide wire
During use there is a risk that a male connector for a guide wire is bent. With the present male connector (1) more material with high modulus of elasticity can be provided inside the male connector (1), which makes the male connector (1) more bending resistant. The male connector (1) comprises a core wire (3), a plurality of conductive members (4) spaced apart longitudinally along said core wire (3), a plurality of conductors (5) disposed along the core wire (3), each of the conductors (5) being connected to a respective conductive member (4). The connector (1) has such a configuration that the conductors (5) are protected from damage at the location where the conductors (5) connect to the conductive members (4).
US07775986B2 Therapy device with a time-variable blood regulation
A therapy device having a blood pressure device and a regulating device for a time-variable regulation of the blood pressure, which decides, during a therapy procedure, dependent on detected blood pressure value, whether the blood regulation is continued with hypothetical or with real blood pressure values. The regulating device processes various categories of blood pressure values, i.e. blood pressure values obtained by the regulating device according to an implemented time schedule, blood pressure values requested by measurement and evaluation device, and blood pressure values requested by medical staff. Besides the regular triggers (RT) generated at regular intervals, the irregular triggers (IRT) and the quasi-regular triggers (QRT) requested externally at respective times are also evaluated.
US07775985B2 Method for analysing pressure signals derivable from a body cavity
A method for analysing pressure-signals derivable from pressure measurements on or in a body of a human being or animal, includes the steps of sampling said signals and converting the signals to pressure-related digital data with a time reference, wherein the method comprises the further steps of: identifying from said digital data features related to absolute pressures relative to atmospheric pressure, recording repeatedly at specific time intervals, intermittently, in any reiterated manner, or continuously absolute pressure data to create a pressure trend plot against time, determining from said recording either a) a plurality of different pressure levels and duration thereof, or b) a plurality of different pressure changes of different levels and duration thereof, and presenting a) numbers of different pressure levels of various time durations in format of a matrix, or b) presenting numbers of different pressure change levels of various time durations in format of a matrix.
US07775974B2 Force-determining retraction device and associated method
A retraction device including at least one pair of opposed retraction members, with each retraction member being capable of operably engaging the tissue to be retracted. A drive mechanism is operably engaged with at least one of each pair of retraction members for separating one of each pair of retraction members from the other to retract the tissue. A measuring device is operably engaged with at least one of the drive mechanism and one of each pair of retraction members, for determining and/or controlling a magnitude and/or rate of a force and/or strain imparted to the tissue by the drive mechanism via the retraction members as the tissue is being retracted. Associated devices and methods are also provided.
US07775971B2 Capsule apparatus with rigid and flexible wiring board sections
An capsule-type medical apparatus includes a sealed container; and a wiring board which is housed in the sealed container and on which a functional circuit performing a predetermined function while the capsule-type medical apparatus is inserted into a subject is mounted. The wiring board includes a plurality of comparatively rigid wiring board sections on which parts constituting the functional circuit are mounted, and a comparatively flexible wiring board section that connects the plurality of the rigid wiring board sections. The flexible wiring board is extended from a straight-line portion formed on the rigid wiring board sections, and the flexible wiring board section is folded so that the adjacent rigid wiring board sections oppose to each other.
US07775970B2 Harvesting device for endoscope
A harvesting device for an endoscope includes a harvesting member inserted through an outer tube member, including a harvesting portion arranged at the distal end portion of the outer tube member and to perform a harvesting, and configured to move so that the harvesting member moves and positions the harvesting portion at a harvesting position and a standby position, a wipe member inserted through the outer tube member, including a wipe portion arranged at the distal end portion of the outer tube member, and configured to move so that the wipe member moves the wipe portion to wipe a distal end portion of the endoscope, and a conversion mechanism to convert the movement of the harvesting member into that of the wipe member to interlock the wiping of the wipe portion with the positioning of the harvesting portion.
US07775965B2 Decellularized grafts from umbilical cord vessels and process for preparing and using same
A tissue graft is disclosed that includes a decellularized umbilical vessel having a luminal surface and an ablumenal surface, wherein the decellularized umbilical vessel is prepared by an automated dissection process. The decellularized umbilical vessel has not been substantially cross-linked. In one method of use, the decellularized umbilical vessel is capable of having at least one cell type seeded at least a portion of at least one of the luminal and ablumenal surfaces thereof. A process of preparing the tissue graft, methods of using the tissue graft, and kits which contain the tissue graft are also disclosed.
US07775964B2 Active vibration attenuation for implantable microphone
The invention is directed to an implanted microphone having reduced sensitivity to vibration. In this regard, the microphone differentiates between the desirable and undesirable vibration by utilizing at least one motion sensor to produce a motion signal when an implanted microphone is in motion. This motion signal is used to yield a microphone output signal that is less vibration sensitive. In a first arrangement, the motion signal may be processed with an output of the implantable microphone transducer to provide an audio signal that is less vibration-sensitive than the microphone output alone. Specifically, the motion signal may be scaled to match the motion component of the microphone output such that upon removal of the motion signal from the microphone output, the remaining signal is an acoustic signal.
US07775963B2 Liquid driven centrifugal separation apparatus and open vessel rotor with improved efficiency
A centrifugal separation rotor for an apparatus, which removes contaminants from a pumped liquid, such as engine lubricant, by rotating it about axis at high speed includes a separation and containment vessel that permit liquid to leave the vessel as fast as it can enter, so that a zone is defined adjacent a side wall that holds a volume of liquid less than the whole volume encompassed by the vessel walls and filled in conventional high speed separators. A divider wall surface is interrupted by a set of upstanding vanes, which extend along it and around the axle as a helix of such pitch as to form both collector vanes to guide liquid entering between the rotating vanes towards the transfer passage. Motor vanes receive one or more jets of liquid impinging thereon at a glancing angle to drive the rotor before being guided along the inlet zone.
US07775960B2 Drum for a creasing device
A drum for a creasing device, a resilient creasing ring and method are provided. The drum includes first and second drum parts that cooperate with one another to define a circumferential channel of the drum a base and two side wall for receiving a resilient creasing ring. At least one of the side walls includes recess for receiving a portion of the resilient creasing ring such that the resilient creasing ring cannot be removed radially from the channel. The creasing ring may be continuous or a split ring. A method of mounting the creasing ring includes mounting the resilient creasing ring on a first drum part and axially sliding a second drum part into cooperation with the first drum part to mount the creasing ring within a channel formed therebetween.
US07775956B2 Process and apparatus for processing filter tow strip
A processing unit for processing at least one filter tow strip to produce filters for rod-shaped smoking articles includes at least one tow guidance section along which the filter tow strip is moved in a direction of a longitudinal extension of the filter tow strip. The tow guidance section includes processing devices used for processing the filter tow strip. The processing devices are arranged in a sequence essentially one above the other, so that at least a segment of the tow guidance section that is located in a region of the processing devices is oriented at an angle to a horizontal line.
US07775954B2 Cutter shifting mechanism for center machine
A cutter shifting mechanism includes a main body having a longitudinal cylinder casing and a shaft is located in the longitudinal cylinder casing. An arm is connected to a lower end of the shaft so as to be connected with cutters. A longitudinal pushing device is connected to a top end of the shaft and a gear is rotatably mounted to the shaft. The gear is movable along a longitudinal axis of the shaft. A threaded rod is engaged with the gear and connected with a latitude pushing device. Each of the longitudinal and latitude pushing devices includes a pneumatic cylinder. The mechanism includes simple structure and can be manufactured at low cost. The pneumatic cylinders accurately operate the parts of the mechanism.
US07775951B2 Integrated leg press for gym
The present invention is a lower body workout apparatus that is a part of a gym and supports leg press exercise feature and may be combined with a leg extension/curl feature. The seat on the apparatus or the feature station may be used with upper body exercises. The apparatus comprises a base frame that is on a floor surface and can be a part of a gym unit frame, and a seat frame that supports a seat pad and moves relative to the base frame, a guide that relates the seat frame to the base frame mechanically and guides the motion of the seat frame relative to the base frame, and a cable system comprising a force source that relates either the seat frame or the guide or both to the base frame.
US07775949B2 Shoulder stretcher assembly
The shoulder stretcher assembly detachably connects to a chair frame of a chair. It includes an elongated support assembly that includes a substantially vertical portion securely supportable adjacent to a rear portion of a chair frame of a chair. An upper portion of the elongated support assembly projects forwardly from the substantially vertical portion so as to extend over the chair. The upper portion includes a pulley assembly attaching element for attaching a pulley assembly for supporting a cable assembly.
US07775946B2 Multifunctional trainer for strength training
The invention relates to a multifunctional trainer for strength training. The trainer comprises a body (1), a counterforce unit (2) for generating a counterforce to resist the exercise movements, a set of movement arms (31, 32) supported to the body (1) for performing different exercise movements, and a set of elongated tensile elements (41, 42) arranged to act between the counterforce unit (2) and the movement arms (31, 32) for applying the counterforce resisting each exercise movement from the counterforce unit to the movement arms. The trainer comprises an automatic mechanical coupler (5), to which the tensile elements (41, 42) are connected, and which coupler is adapted to, immediately at start of each exercise movement, automatically couple the tensile element corresponding to each separate movement arm for said exercise movement, to the counterforce unit (2) in a force-applying manner, for applying the counterforce of the counterforce unit to said exercise movement, without the need for manual connection prior to performing said exercise movement, and without affecting, during said exercise movement, the tensile elements connected to the other movement arms, which are not subject to tension during said exercise movement.
US07775945B2 Arm assembly for exercise devices
Aspects of the present invention involve an exercise device with an arm assembly that provides linear, converging, and/or diverging hand grip motions during use and also has an adjustable starting position. The arm assemblies described and depicted herein include arm members that are pivotally coupled with a frame of an exercise device. During exercise, the arm members engage an arcuate surface defining the arm path. The arcuate surfaces which guide the converging and/or diverging hand grip motions as the arms pivot relative to the frame. Some embodiments of the present invention include a releasable locking mechanism that allows a user to pivot the arm members to a desired starting position without altering the relative positions of the hand grips.
US07775940B2 Folding elliptical exercise machine
A folding elliptical exercise machine is disclosed. The folding elliptical machine has a frame that comprises a base support structure and an upright support structure, wherein the base support structure has a front portion and a rear portion, the front portion having a first end and a second end, wherein the rear portion is rotatably attached to the front portion at a pivot mechanism such that the elliptical exercise machine is selectively moveable between an operating position and a storage position. The upright support structure extends upward from the first end of the front portion of the base support structure. The folding elliptical machine further comprises first and second reciprocating foot supports, each foot support having a first end and a second end, a drive assembly situated on the rear portion of the base support structure, and a ramp assembly situated at the first end of the front portion of the base support structure. The respective first ends of the first and second foot supports are releasably attached to the drive assembly and the ramp assembly has first and second guide rails for guiding the respective second ends of the first and second foot supports such that the foot supports move in an elliptical path.
US07775939B2 Balance exercise machine
In a balance exercise machine (1), a swing mechanism (3) that swings a seat (2) in both of an anteroposterior direction (direction X) and a widthwise direction (direction Y) is rotatably supported on a supporting unit (119 around a predetermined rotation axis (T0). A first inclination mechanism (12) that stands up or down the rotation axis (T0) is provided between the supporting unit (11) and a pedestal (4). A second inclination mechanism (20) that can compensate the posture of the seat (2) is provided between the seat (2) and the swing mechanism (3). By driving the swing mechanism (3), the first inclination mechanism (12) and the second inclination mechanism (20) independently with each other, a stroke of swing motion of the seat can be expanded or contracted. Alternatively, by driving the swing mechanism (3), the first inclination mechanism (12) and the second inclination mechanism (20) in conjunction with each other, the trace of the motion of the seat (2) can be varied.
US07775938B1 Exerciser for muscles that protract and depress the mandible
An exerciser for muscles that protract and depress the mandible. A headpiece is adapted to fit around an upper rearward portion of a human head. A chin strap extends around the chin and is coupled to the headpiece at such an angle that the chinstrap is urged against the chin in opposition to both protraction and depression of the chin. The exerciser finds an application in treating temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD).
US07775935B2 Overrun prevention system for an automatic transmission
A system and method for overrun prevention is disclosed. Overrun of a one-way clutch may be prevented by determining a current torque value. When a current torque value approaches a negative value, a shift to a gear without a one-way clutch may be performed. Driving control may be increased by shifting from a gear associated with a one-way clutch when a current torque value approaches a negative value or another shifting parameter determines a shift is necessary.
US07775930B2 Multi-speed transmission
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, four planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes first, second and third members. The torque transmitting devices may include clutches and brakes.
US07775928B2 Differential and bearing arrangement
An axle assembly with an axle housing with a pair of bearing journals, a differential assembly disposed between the bearing journals, a pair of differential bearings and a pair of hollow adjusters that can be threaded into the bearing journals to preload the differential bearings and control gear lash between a pinion and a ring gear. Retaining members can be non-rotatably engage to the hollow adjusters and can be press-fit into counterbores in the outboard sides of the bearing journals. The axle housing can include an unitarily formed differential housing with a body and an axle tube structure, and a first axle tube that can be discretely formed and coupled to the body.
US07775926B2 Differential device for vehicle
A differential device includes a differential casing 15 having a cylindrical part 3, first and second sidewalls 5, 7 formed on both sides of the cylindrical part 3 and a flange part 13 formed on the outer circumference of the first sidewall 5, a differential mechanism 23 having a differential member 17 to which a driving force is transmitted from the differential casing 15 and first and second output members 19, 21 both engaged with the differential member 17 to distribute the driving force, a diff lock mechanism 29 having a clutch member 25 rotatable integrally with the first sidewall 5 and connectable with the first output member 19 by a relative movement of the clutch member 25 to the first sidewall 5 in the axial direction of the cylindrical part 3 and an actuator 27 for moving the clutch member 25 in the axial direction of the cylindrical part 3 and a differential restraint mechanism 33 having a frictional clutch 31 arranged on the side of the second sidewall 7, for restraining a relative rotation of the differential casing 15 to the second output member 21.
US07775923B2 Chain tensioner for two-wheeled vehicle engine
A chain tensioner for use with a chain of a vehicle engine, includes a housing and a plunger slidably mounted in a cylinder chamber formed in the housing. The plunger is biased outwardly by a return spring mounted in a pressure chamber defined in the cylinder chamber by the plunger. A check valve is provided in the cylinder chamber to prevent backflow of hydraulic oil in the pressure chamber. A relief valve, provided in the plunger, opens above a relief pressure, thereby discharging hydraulic oil in the pressure chamber. An oil leakage clearance is defined between the plunger and the inner wall of the cylinder chamber. The relief pressure and the oil leakage clearance dimension are determined such that the tension in the chain is kept at such a level that vibrations of the chain are minimum at any temperature of hydraulic oil and at any engine revolution speed.
US07775922B2 Tension adjusting device for engine accessory driving belt
In a tension adjusting device for an engine accessory driving belt by tightening a bolt 7 threaded into an engine block 8, a fulcrum shaft 6 is fixed. A tension pulley 1 is rotatably supported by a pulley arm 2 pivotally supported about the fulcrum shaft 6. A regulating force of a hydraulic auto-tensioner is applied to the pulley arm 2 to press the tension pulley against the belt B. A washer 10 is disposed between a boss 3 formed on the pulley arm 2 and the head 7a of the bolt 7. The washer 10 has an outer cylindrical portion 11 covering one end of the boss 3. A slinger 12 is mounted on the end of the boss 3 to define a labyrinth 13 between the slinger 12 and the cylindrical portion 11, thereby preventing entry of muddy water and dust into the bearing portion pivotally supporting the pulley arm 2.
US07775920B1 Elastomeric pitching shoe
A pitching shoe configured to have a size, shape, and weight of a conventional metallic shoe is made of elastomers having specific gravities in the range between 1.8 and 2.0 to enable reintroduction of the sport to correctional facilities and other applications where metallic shoes create too great a risk of injury. Suitable materials include neoprene, natural rubber, SBR, natural/SBR blend, or other natural or synthetic rubbers and rubber blends, and plastics which include high density fillers compounded into or mixed with a base plastic material.
US07775919B2 Camouflage system
A camouflage system, comprising an article having a surface and a camouflage pattern covering a portion of the surface, is disclosed. The camouflage pattern may comprise a geometric shape section and an image section. The geometric shape section may comprise a plurality of geometric shape elements and a geometric shape section boundary. The image section may comprise an image element comprising a graphic image and an image section boundary. The image element may comprise a graphic image of a portion of a natural scene. An archery arrow system, comprising an archery arrow and a camouflage pattern on a portion of the archery arrow, is also disclosed. The camouflage pattern on the portion of the archery arrow may comprise a geometric shape section and an image section.
US07775914B1 Baseball swing training device
Baseball swing training apparatus having elongate base member and forward stop member, step member and connecting member extending laterally therefrom. Pivot stop member extends rearward from connecting member. Baseball swing training apparatus having elongate base member with forward member and rear member slidably engaged thereto. A forward stop member and a step member extend laterally from the forward member. A connecting member extends laterally from the elongate base member. A pivot stop member extends rearward from the connecting member. Means such as pins, holes, latches and the like secure the forward member in longitudinal position and the connecting member in transverse position. A method of teaching a batter to swing a bat including providing an apparatus having elongate base member and forward stop member, step member and connecting member extending laterally therefrom is also disclosed.
US07775912B2 Soccer training device
A soccer training device for enhancing ball-handling and physical coordination of a soccer player, includes a base member, a rotary member, an elongated arm having a free distal end and a proximal end pivotally attached to a top portion of the base member via the rotary bearing, wherein the elongated arm is adapted for pivotal movement in at least one axis of direction about the point of attachment, an articulated member extending from the distal end of the elongated arm, wherein the articulated member is adapted for movement from a rest position in any axis of direction independent of the elongated arm, a biasing mechanism operatively associated with the articulated member for biasing the articulated member into alignment with the elongated arm, and a ball retaining member operatively associated with the free end of the articulated member for retaining a soccer ball thereon.
US07775910B2 Ball game kit
A ball game kit is easily carried and readily assembled to facilitate play in recreational areas such as parks or beaches. The kit includes a container housing paddles, balls, and a unilateral court assembly appointed to be laid on a ground surface and secured thereto by way of securing mechanism to yield a playing field. The playing field is divided into two opposing player courts separated by a middle zone or dead zone. The court assembly includes a continuous rope or cord-like member. The court can be readily and accurately adjusted from a singles playing court to a doubles playing court by condensing and/or expanding the court assembly, without having to add sections or dismantle the court assembly. Glow in the dark properties may be provided to the court assembly, paddles, and/or balls for play in dimly lit or foggy conditions.
US07775909B2 Golf ball which includes fast-chemical-reaction-produced component and method of making same
Disclosed herein is a golf ball comprising fast-chemical-reaction-produced component, such as a component which comprises a reaction injection molded polyurethane material. The golf ball has excellent light stability. Also disclosed is a method making a golf ball by forming a cover component of the ball by mixing two or more reactants that react and form a reaction product with a flex modulus of from about 1 to about 310 kpsi in a reaction time of about 5 minutes or less, the component having a thickness of at least 0.01 inches and a demold time of 10 minutes or less.
US07775902B2 Golf club capable of disassembly
A separable or collapsible golf club, comprising a first shaft member and a second shaft member, which are secured together by means of a connector having two or more biased releasable ring-shaped fasteners positioned apart from one another to provide counterbalanced engagement, to afford an interconnection of the shaft members to form a single golf club when assembled, but that allows for prompt disconnection, through the remote actuation of the fasteners, when the golf club members are to be separated or collapsed, or a different club head is to be installed for usage and application for driving or putting of a golf ball.
US07775901B2 Golfing equipment
A lightweight golfing kit particularly suited to use on pitch-and-putt courses comprises one or more golfing shafts, two or more clubheads demountably attachable thereto, and a carrier assembly including a holster open at both ends for supporting the shaft or shafts. The carrier may include a case for the clubheads supporting the holster in an upright position, and loops for supporting the assembly from a golfer's shoulders. Optionally a golfing shaft may be adjustable in length. The assembly may also include a detachable belt.
US07775900B1 Golfer alignment system
A golfer alignment system for efficiently assisting a golfer in aligning their golf club and body properly while hitting a golf ball. The golfer alignment system generally includes a first alignment member comprised of an elongated configuration, a second alignment member comprised of an elongated configuration, wherein the second alignment member is substantially parallel to the first alignment member and at least one diagonal member attached between the first alignment member and the second alignment member. The diagonal member is attached in an oblique configuration with respect to the first alignment member and the second alignment member.
US07775898B1 Golf robot arm
A golf swing training system that straps to the rear or trailing arm of the golfer and guides movement of that arm to correctly delay release of the golf club on the downswing until the trailing arm bicep is approximately pointing toward the ground. A servo motor locks the trailing arm at the elbow from extension near the top of the backswing as the trailing arm reaches its fully bent position preventing premature club release during the initial downswing, and releases the elbow when the upper arm reaches a near vertical position on the downswing. The entire system is controlled by an on-board microprocessor encoded by input angle signals of the trailing arm bending movement adapted to the swing cycle of the individual golfer under study.
US07775893B2 Children's riding device
A riding device for a child is disclosed, as are different embodiments relating to same. The device preferably includes a seat portion and a base portion, where the seat portion is capable of up and down bouncing motion and forward and back rocking motion. This is preferably achieved by providing the base portion with one or more springs which act to counteract or provide force to the seat portion during operation by a child. The device is capable of being modified to provide different types of movement/motion and to emulate different objects.
US07775892B2 Endpiece for a welded tube shaft and a corresponding shaft
A shaft includes endpieces welded to a tube shaft. The endpieces include a central axis; a first portion having a first end that is a connection end; and a second portion that is tubular and that is adapted to be welded to the tube. The second axial portion defines a second free end and has an outer surface, an inner surface, and an end-wall surface defined by an end-wall generatrix. The inner surface is of a shape that flares towards the second free end and is defined by an inner generatrix different from the end-wall generatrix. The endpiece is applicable to transmission shafts in motor vehicles.
US07775890B2 Flexible drivetrain having axial and radial motion limiter
A drivetrain for use with a power unit is disclosed. The drivetrain may have a crankshaft, a flywheel having spline teeth, and a flexible plate connecting the crankshaft to the flywheel. The drivetrain may also have a driven member having spline teeth configured to mate with the spline teeth of the flywheel, and a limiter associated with at least one of the flywheel and the driven member. The limiter may be configured to limit a maximum axial movement and a maximum radial movement between the flywheel and the driven member.
US07775887B2 Casino table systems with multiple displays and below table processor
Systems and methods for playing live casino games involving multiple participants. The systems have casino tables with changeable displays which portray virtual playing cards or symbols to the live participants. The systems may include audio output to make the gaming experience more realistic. Shuffling, cutting, dealing, betting, audio output and return of playing cards are accomplished using data processing functions within an electronic game processor or processors which are mounted below the table and enable these functions to be performed quickly and without manual manipulation of playing cards.
US07775869B2 Player choice game feature
A gaming machine has display means and a game control means arranged to control images displayed on the display means An underlying game is played in which one or more random events are caused to be displayed on the display means and, if a predefined winning event occurs, the machine awards a prize. On the occurrence of a predefined event, the player is offered a choice of two or more different prize sets. Each set containing a plurality of prize outcomes, from which prize sets a prize is to be drawn and awarded to the player, typically by a random process. The prize is drawn from the prize set or sets selected by the player from the two or more different prize sets. The sets of prizes may be presented on segments of wheels that can spin or simulate spinning before stopping randomly on a segment which defines the prize outcome won by the player. Alternatively the sets of prizes are presented on the faces of dice which are arranged to spin or turn or simulate spinning or turning before stopping with the front face of the die defining the prize won by the player.
US07775868B2 Gaming machine for playing baccarat with multiple bet modes displayed in the alternative and with different bet limits
A gaming machine has a mode information storage section in which first bet mode information corresponding to an normal bet mode and second bet mode information corresponding to a score bet mode are stored, and a terminal-side game control section for running a game on the basis of one, selected by a player, of the first bet mode information and the second bet mode information. Each of the first bet mode information and the second bet mode information is information including plural bet subjects, bet factors for the respective bet subjects, a lower limit bet amount, and an upper limit bet amount. The lower limit bet amount of the first bet mode information is larger than that of the second bet mode information. The maximum value of the bet factors of the first bet mode information is smaller than that of the bet factors of the second bet mode information.
US07775862B2 Horns for producing encased products and related horn rotor assemblies
Methods for producing encased products using selectable first and second horns to thereby produce products in selectable different casing types include: (a) providing an apparatus having a first horn that, in operation, is configured to be in fluid communication with a filler pump located upstream thereof; (b) removing the first horn from the apparatus; and (c) mounting a second horn assembly comprising an intermediate pipe segment in fluid communication with a casing horn to the apparatus. The casing horn can pivot side-to-side. Related apparatus, systems, kits, assemblies and computer program products are configured to allow dual operational modes of producing encased products using first or second horns.
US07775860B2 Systems with horns that extend into netting chutes and having cooperating deruckers for producing encased products and related devices, methods and computer program products
Apparatus for engaging a filler/product pump that include: (a) a horn having a length, an outer surface and an internal product channel extending therethrough; (b) a forming collar in communication with the horn, wherein, in operation, the forming collar is configured to cooperate with the horn to direct planar casing material to take on a generally tubular shape over an outer surface of the horn while product travels through the internal channel; (c) a netting chute sized and configured to receive a portion of the horn therein, the netting chute configured to hold a sleeve of elastic netting material thereon; and (d) an automated derucker operatively associated with the netting chute whereby the derucker is configured to automatically travel through a derucker stroke cycle comprising upstream and downstream locations to pull segments of netting material toward a downstream end portion of the netting chute while product is pumped out of the horn.
US07775858B2 Machine for dressing the edges and outer surfaces of flat workpieces
In a machine for processing the edges and outer surfaces of flat workpieces, including a machine frame with a workpiece support surface 12 and at least one dressing head 14 with a work tool carrier, which work tool carrier is rotatably supported on the machine frame for rotation about a first axis perpendicular to the workpiece support surface 12 and is driven by a drive, and which work tool carrier carries at least two work tools 32 rotatably supported eccentrically to the first axis on the work tool carrier each for rotation about a second axis perpendicular to the workpiece support surface 12, and each of which tools is connected with a planet gear 44 which stands in meshing drive engagement with a sun gear 26 coaxial to the first axis so that each circulating work tool carrier defines an effective circle 46 of its work tools 32, with at least two dressing heads 14 being so arranged next to one another that the effective circles 46 of their work tools 32 overlap, with the movement of the work tool carriers of neighboring dressing heads 14 being so controlled that the work tools 42 arranged on their work tool carriers are displaced from one another in the circulating direction.
US07775856B2 Method for removal of surface films from reclaim substrates
Embodiments of the invention describe a method for reclaiming a substrate by removing surface films with media blasting. A substrate is provided having a surface film. Media blasting is performed on the substrate to remove the surface film from the surface. In one embodiment media blasting removes a film from the substrate top surface. In another embodiment media blasting removes a film from the substrate top surface and side surface.
US07775855B2 Sanding tool with rotatable handle
A hand-held, manually-operated sanding tool includes a base body, a handle, and a coupling device. The base body defines an aperture extending from a first surface of the base body to a second surface of the base body. The handle includes a grip and a post. The coupling device is coupled with the post of the handle through the aperture. The handle and the coupling device are positioned near opposite surfaces of the base body to rotatably couple the handle to the base body such that the handle is rotatable about an axis defined by the post.
US07775854B1 Water jet machining with abrasive recovery and filtration
A continuous flow recirculating jet machining system incorporates a dynamic particle separator downstream of the fluid collection reservoir, for directing the water or other liquid in a serpentine path to promote separation of larger-diameter particulates. A filter bank downstream of the dynamic separator removes fine particles in several stages, providing several alternative fluid flow paths at each stage to facilitate filter replacement and other maintenance at each stage without interrupting system operation. The system further can incorporate a settlement tank between the dynamic separator and the filter bank to separate larger and intermediate sized particles upstream of the filter bank.
US07775853B2 Configurable polishing apparatus
A polishing apparatus for polishing semiconductor wafers comprises a main polishing structure, which includes a plurality of polishing tables, a plurality of polishing heads and a plurality of load-and-unload stations, and an add-on polishing structure, which includes an additional polishing table and an additional polishing head. The add-on polishing structure can be attached to the main polishing structure to form a larger polishing structure with the additional polishing table and the additional polishing head.
US07775847B2 Method for manufacturing hot cathode fluorescent lamp
A method for manufacturing a hot cathode fluorescent lamp can ensure or facilitate stable initial luminous intensity and provide improved product life characteristics even when the hot cathode fluorescent lamp employs a glass tube with an outer diameter of less than 7 mmφ. One end of a glass tube can be sealed with a glass bead of a mount structure. The other opening end of the glass tube can be welded with an opening end of an exhaust pipe with bent portions of lead wires being sandwiched between the opening ends of the glass tube and the exhaust pipe. After evacuating a vacuum system that is constituted by the inner spaces of the glass tube and the exhausted pipe communicating with each other, the bent portions of the lead wires which extrude outside the vacuum system can be clamp-connected to power source lines extending from an external power source. The emitter of the filaments can be activated by the generated heat of the filament. After supplying mercury and a rare gas into the glass tube, the glass bead can be sealed, and unnecessary portions of the glass tube, the exhaust pipe, and the lead wires can be removed to complete the hot cathode fluorescent lamp, in accordance with one aspect of the disclosed subject matter.
US07775839B1 Connector and manufacturing method of the same
A connector includes a plate-shaped contact; and an insulator including a fixing hole into which the contact is pressed to be fixed. At least a part of the fixing hole has a cross section in a cruciform shape.
US07775832B2 Holding structure of a contact member for an electrical connector
An electrical connecter capable of preventing a contact member from being lifted up without inhibiting reduction in height is provided. A contact member of an electrical connector, which is held in a housing including a press-fit hole and a support surface, and is to be connected to a mating contact member is provided. The contact member includes a flat contact portion for contact with the mating contact member, and is disposed along the support surface, a flat press-fit fixing portion, which is connected to the contact portion, and is press-fitted into the press-fit hole, a tine portion connected to the press-fit fixing portion, and a lug extending from a side surface of the press-fit fixing portion, and the lug includes a support piece and an inclined piece.
US07775831B2 Connector
An accommodation recess (17) is formed in the front surface of a housing main body (11). A plate-like lance housing (70) including locking lances (19) for primarily locking terminal fittings (130) by resiliently deformably projecting at inner surfaces of terminal accommodation holes (71) is accommodated into the accommodation recess (17). A plate-like retainer (50) movable to a partly locked position for permitting the insertion of the terminal fittings (130) into the terminal accommodation holes (71) and to a fully locked position for secondarily locking the terminal fittings (130) is also accommodated into the accommodation recess (17). The rear surface of the lance housing (70) and the front surface of the retainer (50) are arranged in contact with each other.
US07775829B2 Electrical connector
A modular jack assembly (100) for being mounted to a mother board includes an insulative element (10) and an electrical unit (20) mounted to the insulative element. The electrical unit has a housing (21), a terminal module (23) assembled to the housing, a daughter board (27) attached to a side portion of the housing, a LED (Light Emitting Diode) (271) disposed on the daughter board and a connecting module (25) mounted bellow the housing. The connecting module has a base (251) and a mating portion (259) extending from the base, a number of pins (250) assembled to the base, and a number of contacts (257) located to the mating portion and mounted to the mother board. The contacts electrically connect with the LED by electrically connecting to the pins.
US07775828B2 Electrical connector having improved grounding member
An electrical connector (1) mounted on a mother printed circuit board (2) includes an insulative housing (3), a contacting module (4) having a pair of daughter printed circuit boards (42), a grounding member (6) and an outer shield (5) enclosing the insulative housing. The grounding member has a base portion (61) connecting to the daughter printed circuit board and a contacting portion (62) extending downwardly for connecting with the mother printed circuit board. The outer shield has a protruding member (522) for contacting with the grounding member and a number of tines (53) extending downwardly therefrom in contact with the mother printed circuit board for grounding.
US07775826B1 Card connector
A card connector includes an insulating housing defining a receiving room for receiving an electronic card, a cover coupled on the insulating housing, and a monitoring member having a base plate disposed in the insulating housing, a monitoring means extending along the insertion direction of the card, and a connecting arm perpendicularly connecting the monitoring means to the base plate. The connecting arm is inclined upward into the receiving room to make the monitoring means locate in the receiving room. One end of the monitoring means is higher than the other end thereof for electrically abutting against the cover, wherein the lower end of the monitoring means is adapted for being pressed downward by the card to make the connecting arm move downward and further make the upper end thereof disconnect from the cover so as to monitor whether the card is fully inserted in the card connector or not.
US07775822B2 Electrical connectors having power contacts with alignment/or restraining features
Preferred embodiments of power contacts have alignment features that can maintain conductors of the power contacts in a state of alignment during and after insertion of the power contacts into a housing.
US07775820B2 High temperature connector body
A ceramic connector body for a high temperature electrical connector, such as those used in high temperature gas sensors, incorporates a pair of opposing ceramic body portions which are operative for pivoting engagement and to be fixed in a connector body retainer which also enables their pivoting, hinged movement. The pivoting engagement permits the ceramic body portions to hinge open to receive a gas sensor with a low insertion force and a hinge close to provide the desired contact force. The ceramic body portions are also operative to house conductive terminals which provide electrical contact for power and signal communication with a gas sensor.
US07775819B2 Buss plate bushing retainer and assembly thereof
A method and apparatus for the economical and reliable assembly of buss plates and components thereon, having a bushing positioned on one or more surfaces or therebetween. A resilient retainer is employed to retain bushings in proximity to buss plate through holes to facilitate easy assembly. The use of the resilient retainer eliminates the requirement for costly and potentially adverse pre-assembly soldering of the bushing into position.
US07775818B2 Bus bar connection for a gas-insulated switchboard system
A bus bar connection which electrically interconnects switchboard sections by at least one electrical connection element, the bus bar connection including bellows which can be mounted between the switchboard sections, can be filled with insulting gas, and surround the electrical coupling element of the bus bar connection in a gas-tight manner.
US07775804B2 Interposer assembly with flat contacts
Interposer assembly includes an insulating plate with slots extending through the thickness of the plate and a flat metal contacts confined in the slots.
US07775794B2 Mechanical device for use in orthodontics
The invention relates to a mechanical device for use in orthodontics. The inventive device has a base (2) which is cemented onto a tooth (1) and a cap or closure element (3) which is mounted on the base (2).According to the invention, the device has the following functional characteristics: an orthodontic wire insertion groove which is provided on the cap or closure element instead of at the base of the bracket as is usual; the adjustment of the wire by means of a pull mechanism which is provided on the cap or closure element; a self-closing system for the wire; an aesthetic, functional design with minimum friction on soft tissues (lips); customization of the torque and the tip, such that suitable values can be applied according to the requirements of each case and treatment phase; and minimization of the time required to adjust arcs in the mouth.
US07775792B2 Combustion head for a gas burner
A combustion head comprising: a pipe, having a central axis of symmetry, suitable for conveying a flow of comburent air in a combustion chamber, and a plurality of gas tubes spaced out along a circumference. Each gas tube has a first portion, having an axis of symmetry parallel to the axis, and a second portion, placed in series with respect to the first portion. The second portion in inclined at an angle with respect to the axis.
US07775782B2 Variable capacity rotary compressor having vane controller
A variable capacity rotary compressor capable of reducing collision noise of a vane with a roller. The variable capacity rotary compressor includes a vane controller controlling the operation of a vane in order to vary compression capacity. The vane controller includes a control valve that switches a fluid channel so as to selectively apply discharge pressure and intake pressure to the vane guide slot, a connection channel that connects the control valve with the vane guide slot, a high-pressure channel that connects the control valve with a discharge side of the compressor, and a low-pressure channel that connects the control valve with an intake side of the compressor, and a throttle section that reduces the fluid channel of at least one of the high-pressure channel and the connection channel in order to reduce an initial discharge pressure applied to the vane guide slot.
US07775779B2 Pump apparatus, systems and methods
Pump apparatus, systems and methods of making and using same are disclosed. One inventive system includes a coupling member, a first shaft and a second shaft, the coupling member connecting the first shaft with the second shaft, the coupling member defining a first axial chamber accepting the first shaft, and a second axial chamber accepting the second shaft, the chambers separated by a coupling plate, the chambers including torsional motion transmitting elements and axial motion securing elements in the first and second axial chambers for axially securing the shafts in the coupling member. This abstract allows a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure. It will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).
US07775778B2 Heat dissipation module
A heat dissipation module including a supporting frame, a driver, a linkage, a first magnet and a plurality of magnetic blades is provided. The supporting frame has a chute. Moreover, one end of the linkage has a protrusion passing through the chute. The other end of the linkage is connected to the driver. The first magnet is disposed on the protrusion. In addition, the repelling magnetic blades are pivoted on the supporting frame. The outermost magnetic blade faces the first magnet and they repel each other.
US07775777B2 Fuel pump provided for installation inside a fuel container, with an adapter
In a fuel pump (9) with an adapter (12) there are provided latching means (16, 16′) disposed opposite one another and arranged at opposite ends of rocker elements (18, 18′) having a release mechanism (17, 17′) which can be actuated by hand. The rocker elements (18, 18′) are produced integrally with the adapter (12). By pressing together the release mechanism (17, 17′) the latching mechanism (16, 16′) are released from the fuel pump (9). The adapter (12) has a non-return valve (22) and/or a pressure-limiting valve (23). The fuel pump (9) can therefore be adapted to the particular application by simply exchanging the adapter (12).
US07775776B2 Method and apparatus to pump liquids from a well
A single conduit lift pump is disclosed that only requires a single fluid conduit for both the driving fluid and the pumping action of the pump in a well bore. Fluid pressure communicated to the pump by the single fluid conduit drives the pump to load a resilient member. The fluid pressure is cycled off to allowing the lift of fluid by action of the resilient member upon the single fluid conduit. The single fluid conduit makes this pump suitable for downhole operations for the oil and gas production industries in wells that have substantial water cut that inhibits the production of gas.
US07775774B2 System and method for driving a monopile for supporting an offshore wind turbine
A method for installing an offshore wind turbine system includes driving a cylindrical annular monopile or a substructure into the soil. The monopile includes a flanged portion configured to support a wind turbine tower or a superstructure. The flanged portion extends radially from a peripheral surface of the monopile. The method further includes mounting a wind turbine tower directly on to the monopile, wherein the wind turbine is supported by the flanged portion of the monopile.
US07775766B2 Gas turbine component
A static gas turbine component, especially for an aircraft engine, is formed at least partially region-wise of metal foam. An abradable shroud lining of metal foam and a carrier allow a radial through-flow of gas.
US07775764B2 Gas turbine engine rotor ventilation arrangement
A rotor assembly for a gas turbine engine, the rotor assembly comprises at least two rotors defining a cavity therebetween. A first rotor defines a cooling air inlet in its radially inward portion. A second rotor defines a cooling air outlet in its radially outward portion, such that the cooling air passes radially outwardly through the cavity.
US07775762B2 Pump header body and modular manifold
A modular header body is described for distributing fluid to an individually pumped fluid circuit. The modular header body has a valve to selectively isolate the header body's suction chamber from its volute, which permits a pump motor to be disconnected from the header body while the valve is closed. Each modular header body is constructed so that adjacent header bodies can be connected to each other to form a common suction chamber. Each header body's isolation valve operates independently so that the volute of one header body can be isolated from the common suction chamber without affecting fluid supply to the other header bodies.
US07775760B1 Turbine wheel
A wind driven energy source is providing utilizing a turbine wheel comprising a peripheral rim attached to a central hub via a series of spokes. A plurality of airfoil blades are assembled to the wheel, each blade being secured to a pair of spokes and positioned proximate an interior edge of the rim and extend only partially down the length of the spoke. This provides a central opening allowing airflow through the innermost region of the wheel. The blades are pivotally assembled to the spokes and can include an incident angle adjusting mechanism as well as a breakaway feature.
US07775758B2 Impeller rear cavity thrust adjustor
An apparatus for adjusting a thrust load on a rotor assembly of a gas turbine engine includes an impeller rear cavity defined between a rear face of an impeller of the rotor assembly and a stationary wall spaced axially apart from the rear surface of the impeller. A pressurized air flow with a tangential velocity is introduced into the impeller rear cavity at a tip of the impeller to pressurize the cavity. Means are provided in the cavity for directly interfering with the tangential velocity of the pressurized air flow to affect an average static pressure of the pressurized air flow within the cavity in order to adjust the thrust load on the rotor assembly caused by the average static pressure in the cavity.
US07775756B2 Bucket transfer apparatus
A bucket carrier for carrying buckets (2) to store them in each storage shelf of a cart (4), the bucket carrier comprising a holding means (20) for holding buckets (2), and carrier means (28) for carrying the buckets (2) held by the holding means (20) to each storage shelf (49) of the cart (4). The arrangement is such that the holding means (20) and a transfer means (49) are drive-controlled so that the buckets (2) are stored in the storage shelves (49) obliquely from above. Thereby, the buckets (2) can be automatically stored in the cart (4).
US07775752B2 Simultaneous pipe cutting and chamfering device
A mobile device for simultaneously cutting and chamfering a pipe is provided having a frame, at least one pipe collet-clamp attached to the frame and defining a principal axis, a split carriage rotatably mounted with respect to the frame about the axis and adjacent to the clamp(s), a router affixed to the split carriage and having a cutting-chamfering bit, and a drive motor for rotating the carriage. The router orbits around the pipe and simultaneously cuts it into two chamfered pipes. A method is also provided for cutting through a pipe and chamfering the cut ends thereof.
US07775750B2 Tangential cutting insert having a base protrusion
A tangential cutting insert has an insert body provided with a convex upper surface, a bottom surface provided with a cylindrical insert protrusion, and a peripheral side surface including a pair of opposing major side surfaces and a pair of opposing minor side surfaces. A sloped, major cutting edge in formed at the intersection of each major side surface with the top surface, the rake surface being formed in the major side surface. The bottom surface is provided with an insert protrusion abutment surface for seating the cutting insert. An insert recess is formed in the cylindrical insert protrusion, and this recess communicates with the insert's through bore. The cutting insert is seated in an insert pocket with the insert protrusion abutment surface in abutment with the pocket case. A cylindrical pocket protrusion rising from the pocket base and having a threaded bore formed therein enters the recess and is aligned with the insert's through bore. This allows the threads of a clamping screw to engage complementary threads formed in the threaded bore at a point that is close to the through bore.
US07775743B1 Erosion control device and method of use
An erosion control device is provided, comprising a panel having a concrete matrix having a top surface and a bottom surface; a turf reinforcement material contained within the concrete matrix; and a geotextile material bonded to the bottom surface of the concrete matrix. The device includes a plurality of shear connectors inserted through the geotextile material, the concrete matrix, and the turf reinforcement material, and at least one flap of geotextile material extending along an edge of the device for overlapping by adjacent panels. The top surface includes score lines adapted to permit the panel to crack and bend along the score lines to adapt to uneven terrain, and also includes installation holes adapted to anchor the device to a levee or shoreline.
US07775739B1 Method and device for reducing construction track out
A method for shaking vehicles comprises driving them over a series of appropriately spaced-apart, mutually parallel bars to vigorously shake the wheels, undercarriage, and body to free them of dirt, gravel and debris. An apparatus may have bars with the appropriate spacing. A track may include a frame and the spaced-apart bars may form part of the frame. The track may be large enough to accommodate all the wheels of a vehicle at once. Alternatively, smaller tracks may be flexibly connected end-to-end to form a shaker that will receive right and left hand wheels of the vehicle on respective rows. The shaker may be deployed onto a bed of aggregate that is sufficiently coarse to allow the fallen dirt to sift or be washed through the bed of aggregate. The aggregate may also assist in holding the shaker in place and may provide ramps at the ends of the shaker.
US07775738B2 Vehicle barrier system
A modular vehicle barrier system includes a reaction mass for installation in the earth; at least one post immovably anchored in the reaction mass and extending upwardly therefrom; the reaction mass having a forward member for confronting and compressing the surrounding earth and absorbing energy from the impact of the vehicle with the post.
US07775737B2 Hand-held cosmetic powder applicator brush apparatus
A hand-held cosmetic powder applicator brush apparatus for applying cosmetic powders such as facial powders and other powders to a user. The brush apparatus comprises a housing having a chamber for holding a powder to be dispensed and a valve mechanism for selectively opening and closing the chamber to a brush mounted on the housing so that powder in the housing may be dispensed to the bristles of the brush. The valve is operable by rotating an upper housing section such as a sleeve on the housing in a first direction to cause such opening. When the brush is not used, the upper housing section is rotated in the opposite direction to cause the valve mechanism to close. There is also a shield which extends around a portion of the brush to engage and protect the bristles when an outer cap is placed over the brush.
US07775736B2 Portable conversion washing device
A portable conversion washing device includes a pole, a brush support having a soap container, a brush, and a soap dispensing device that has a soap plug that plugs a dispensing opening, an actuator that moves the soap plug away from the dispensing opening whereby soap is dispensed out of the soap container, and a return device that moves the soap plug back to the dispensing opening. The washing device also includes a running water supply device having a first pipe connected to a running water supply hose, a second pipe that is in fluid communication with the first pipe, an angle adjusting device that adjust the angle between the first pipe and the second pipe. The second pipe has a tapered water conduit, a water flow plug that is moved along the conduit, and a water flow shaft that moves the water flow plug within the conduit.
US07775723B2 Assembly including a rotary shaft and a roller bearing
An assembly composed of a rotary shaft and of a roller bearing supporting said shaft, the bearing including a ring interconnected with the shaft and forming a raceway. The assembly provides that the ring is immobilized in rotation on the shaft by a coupling formed by a plurality of teeth on the shaft cooperating with lugs interconnected with the ring, the lugs being received between said teeth. The ring is retained in an axial direction by a snap ring transversal in the form of a ring portion.
US07775716B2 Piping bag, blank for manufacturing a piping bag and method of manufacturing a piping bag
A disposable piping bag (1) comprises a container of polymer film. The piping bag is formed essentially from a thin-walled polymer tube, and an outwardly oriented surface of the piping bag has a rough surface structure.
US07775709B2 Temperature control system for food items
A program comprises a code for implementing a method for regulating the temperature of an environment containing a product when the program is run in a computer system. The method includes measuring an environment temperature; detecting a product temperature; comparing the product temperature with a reference temperature; and varying the environment temperature on the basis of the outcome of the comparing. The detecting includes acquiring the product temperature internally of the product near its outside surface.
US07775701B2 Backlight assembly and display device having the same
A backlight assembly includes a light source, a light-guide plate and an integrally formed frame. The light-guide plate guides light generated from the light source. The integrally formed frame includes a chassis and a mold frame integrally combined with the chassis as an indivisible unitary element through insert/outsert injection. The integrally formed frame receives the light source and the light-guide plate. A hemming part is formed on a sidewall of the chassis to increase strength of the integrally formed frame. Therefore, the number of elements is decreased, and strength against bending stress, impact resistance and heat dissipation are improved.
US07775699B2 Projector lamp having enhanced low to high beam contrast ratio
A bifunctional vehicle headlamp is described. In one embodiment, a headlamp comprises a light source and a reflector, which cooperate to form a light pattern, a lens positioned forward of the reflector and configured to project a desired beam pattern, and a light shield disposed between the lens and the reflector. The light shield has a first shade that selectively blocks a first portion of the light pattern to form a first beam pattern, and a second shade that selectively blocks a second portion of the light pattern to form a second beam pattern.
US07775698B2 Vehicle lamp
A vehicle lamp including a projector headlight for a low beam can include a light source, an ellipsoidal reflector, a projector and shade. Light emitted from the light source can form a fundamental light distribution pattern from the projector lens via the ellipsoidal reflector by shielding an upwards portion of the light with the shade. The shade can form respective thin blurred parts on and/or underneath a horizontal cut-off line for both a driving lane portion and an oncoming lane portion using a top edge line and a top surface of the shade. Therefore, a contrasting difference between the upper and lower sides of the horizontal cut-off line can be reduced so as to be able to conform to a light distribution standard for a headlight. Adjustment of the light distribution pattern can be facilitated due to tonal difference between the horizontal cut-off line of the driving lane and the oncoming lane.
US07775696B2 Vehicle headlamp
A reflector reflects a light from a light source. A projector lens projects a reflected light from the reflector ahead of a vehicle. A shade is used to switch the reflected light into a plurality of beams in a plurality of light distribution patterns. A spring member and a drive unit switch a position of the shade between an obliquely upward and backward position and an obliquely downward and forward position to obtain the light distribution patterns.
US07775695B1 Retractable rotationally adjustable lighting assembly and method
A multi-functional vehicle lighting assembly includes a controller, an housing, a plurality of light-emitting sources, a mechanism for selectively pivoting the light-emitting sources, and a mechanism for selectively swiveling the light-emitting sources along clockwise and counter clockwise directions when the light-emitting sources are adapted to the vertical position. The swiveling mechanism further includes a ball and socket coupling and a support beam with axially opposed proximal and distal ends directly coupled to the second beveled gear and one of the light-emitting sources respectively.
US07775693B2 Vehicle interior light assembly
An interior light assembly for providing lighting in a vehicle includes a light housing mounted in the vehicle interior. The light housing has an open side. At least one main light source is received in the light housing for providing diffuse lighting in the vehicle interior. An outer diffuser lens closes the open side of the light housing and is disposed over the at least one main light source for diffusing light from the at least one main light source throughout the vehicle interior. The outer diffuser lens has at least one opening defined therein. At least one secondary light source is received in the light housing and is directed toward the at least one opening for providing spot lighting in the vehicle interior. At least one focusing lens is disposed over the at least one opening and the at least one secondary light source for focusing light from the at least one secondary light source to a specific limited location of the vehicle interior. The at least one focusing lens has a textured outer surface to reduce color separation from the at least one secondary light source.
US07775692B2 LED street lamp
The present invention relates to a LED street lamp, and more particularly to LED street lamp which is easy to maintenance. The LED street lamp comprises street lamp pole, lamp body and LED bulbs, said lamp body is mounted on the top of said street lamp pole, said LED bulbs is mounted in said lamp body, wherein the LED street lamp further comprises Power supply adapter and constant current actuating device, said Power supply adapter is mounted at the bottom of said street lamp pole, said constant current actuating device is mounted in said lamp body. The LED street lamp involved in the present invention is easy to maintenance.
US07775690B2 Gas cooled reflector structure for axial lamp tubes
A light weight reflector structure for an axial UV lamp wherein a shell-like channel housing supporting spaced apart ribs that in turn support flexed reflective spars that take the shape of the ribs. A preferred shape for the ribs and spars is parabolic about the axial UV lamp so that a beam is formed and directed out of the channel housing. The spars have a gap partially blocked by a deflector spar for creating a tortuous path for air forced direct into a tunnel between the channel housing and the spars. Forced air swirls through the gap and cools both the lamp and the spars.
US07775689B2 Lamp unit and projector employing same
A lamp unit includes a reflector with a lamp mounted therein, a reflector holder holding the reflector, and an ejector member fixed to the reflector holder, for ejecting air to cool the lamp, the ejector member including an insertion member with a tubular stud inserted therein for supplying compressed air, a fluid passage forming member having a fluid passage for being supplied with air from the stud, and a hole defined in a distal end of the ejector member.
US07775685B2 Power surface mount light emitting die package
A light emitting die package includes a substrate, a reflector plate, and a lens. The substrate has traces for connecting an external electrical power source to a light emitting diode (LED) at a mounting pad. The reflector plate is coupled to the substrate and substantially surrounds the mounting pad, and includes a reflective surface to direct light from the LED in a desired direction. The lens is free to move relative to the reflector plate and is capable of being raised or lowered by the encapsulant that wets and adheres to it and is placed at an optimal distance from the LED chip(s). Heat generated by the LED during operation is drawn away from the LED by both the substrate (acting as a bottom heat sink) and the reflector plate (acting as a top heat sink).
US07775679B2 High intensity light source for a machine vision system and method of making same
A light source for machine vision applications includes a housing having a thermally conductive base plate which supports an array of high intensity LEDs. The LEDs are fitted with secondary lenses which are aimed such that the light beams from the LEDs illuminate fixed targets having a predetermined spatial relationship so that the light source produces a very uniform light field. After the lenses are aimed, they are secured in the desired position relative to their associated LEDs using a UV-curable adhesive.
US07775677B2 Adapter device for compact fluorescent lamp having eyesight protection function
Disclosed herein is an adapter device for enabling the use of a compact fluorescent lamp in a lighting apparatus having a socket for an incandescent lamp. The adapter device includes a fastening structure, a cap, green and red Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), and a Direct Current (DC) power supply. The fastening structure fastens the compact fluorescent lamp. The cap supplies Alternating Current (AC) power to the fastening structure. The green LEDs emit light in a wavelength range of 498-530 nm, and the red LEDs emit light in a wavelength range of 620-700 nm. The LEDs are installed around the compact fluorescent lamp. The Direct Current (DC) power supply supplies DC power to the green LEDs and the red LEDs.
US07775671B2 Lens cap set and a lens device utilizing the same
A lens cap set for covering an opening defined by a peripheral edge of a lens assembly includes a mounting seat adapted to be disposed on the peripheral edge of the lens assembly, and a lens cap. At least a portion of one of the mounting seat and the lens cap is made from a magnetically attractable material, and at least a portion of the other one of the mounting seat and the lens cap is made from a magnetic material. The lens cap is coupled magnetically and removably to the mounting seat for covering the opening defined by the peripheral edge of the lens assembly.
US07775667B2 Optical device and projector
An optical device is provided which includes a plurality of optical modulation devices, a plurality of optical elements, and a prism having a plurality of luminous flux incidence surfaces positioned on a luminous flux irradiation-side of each optical element. The optical device includes a holding member which holds at least one of the plurality of optical modulation devices and a pair of light-transmissive substrates. In one implementation, an irradiation-side substrate disposed on the luminous flux irradiation-side of the optical element has a dimension larger than that of the optical element, and the irradiation-side substrate is secured to the luminous flux incidence surface of the prism, an aperture is formed in the holding member, and the holding member is attached to the irradiation-side substrate so as to cover the optical element.
US07775666B2 Three-dimensional image communication terminal and projection-type three-dimensional image display apparatus
It is possible to provide a three-dimensional image display apparatus which can reproduce a three-dimensional image having an appearance of solidity with a simple configuration. The three-dimensional image reproduction apparatus includes: a display device 2 for displaying two-dimensional element images having a plurality of horizontal and vertical parallax images 1 containing information on a parallax and an image at the time of reproducing a three-dimensional solid image 7; and a lens 3 for forming the three-dimensional solid image 7 at a predetermined spatial intersection from the element images displayed by the display device 2. Here, the lens 3 diffracts the element images and forms the three-dimensional image by the use of a diffraction effect when the element images are emitted from the display device 2.
US07775664B2 Instrument for measuring a refractive power
An instrument for measuring a refractive power including an astigmatic axis with retinoscopy is provided, which includes a projector, a light receiving device, a detector, and a notification unit. The projector projects light into a pupil of an examined eye. The light receiving device receives light reflected from the examined eye. The detector detects a tilt angle of the light receiving device with respect to a measurement reference. The notification unit conveys information related to a result of detection performed by the detector.
US07775661B2 System and apparatus for object based attention tracking in a virtual environment
A system and operational method that supplies visual stimuli to each subject in the form of a virtual environment in which at least the objects of interest have a three dimensional wire frame or mesh frame of a number of polygons that is surrounded with at least one skin or surface; wherein the visual stimuli is presented in a test session to the subject on a display device including an eye tracking sub-system that can effectively track the subject's gaze direction and focus on the display device throughout the test session; wherein unique colors are assigned to the mesh frame and/or an eye tracking skin of each object of interest whereby the system can evaluate the obtained eye tracking data and assign attention data to specific objects of interest resulting in object specific attention data.
US07775660B2 Electro-active ophthalmic lens having an optical power blending region
The present invention generally relates to an electro-active optic incorporating a blend region between two regions each having different optical properties.
US07775659B2 Sunglass lens
A polarized tinted lens for sunglasses includes a first polarizing tinting member and a second tinting member. The first polarizing tinting member is capable of reducing the transmission of glare through the lens. The second tinting member at least partially overlays the first tinting member so that light passing through the lens in the portion where the first and second tinting members are overlain must pass through both the first and second tinting members. Preferably the sunglasses created thereby are polarized sunglasses with two tints in one lens. The user can adjust the tint though which he sees by tilting his head or adjusting the angle of his eyes.
US07775656B2 Image recording apparatus
An image recording apparatus configured to record images on a front surface and a back surface of a recording sheet, the image recording apparatus including: a recording head which ejects ink onto the recording sheet for recording; and a controller configured to execute controls for operations of the image recording apparatus, wherein the controller includes a sheet-stopping control section configured to execute a control for stopping the recording sheet for a specific time after the image has been recorded on the front surface of the recording sheet and before the image is recorded on the back surface of the recording sheet, and wherein the image recording apparatus further comprises a biasing device configured to bias the recording sheet, so as to retain the recording sheet in a specific shape, in a state in which the recording sheet is stopped by the control of the sheet-stopping control section.
US07775649B2 Printer ink supply cartridge incorporating internal support ribs and tapered ink reservoirs
The present invention relates to a printer ink supply cartridge assembly. The assembly includes an elongate printer ink supply cartridge including a pair of internal walls separating a triplet of longitudinally extending ink supply reservoirs for storing respective colored inks. The ink supply cartridge defines a plurality of support ribs extending between the internal walls. The walls extend toward each other so that the ink supply reservoirs taper. An elongate ink ejection printhead unit is received within the ink supply cartridge so that ink from the tapered ends of the ink supply reservoirs can be supplied to the printhead unit.
US07775647B2 Liquid container, head cartridge, ink jet printing apparatus, and stirring method for liquid container
A swing member that is provided in an ink containing chamber is swung according to movement of a carriage of a printing apparatus. Accordingly, an ink flow occurs in a hollow portion of the swing member from one of openings to the other opening, such that ink in an ink tank is stirred.
US07775644B2 Printhead assembly with an ink supply carrier supporting an ink distributing molding
A printhead assembly with a printhead integrated circuit (IC) for ejecting ink, an elongate molding which defines a recess for holding the printhead IC, and an elongate support member which supports the elongate molding. The molding defines a plurality of separate ink passages, each in fluid communication with the printhead IC. The elongate support member defines a plurality of separate ink reservoirs each in fluid communication with a respective ink passage. Each of the ink reservoirs extends axially along the support member. The support member has a core element that defines the ink reservoirs and a shell in which the core element can be received.
US07775643B2 Printing cartridge having self-referencing printhead under thermally expansive conditions
A printing cartridge for an inkjet printer is provided having an ink supply and a printhead assembly which has at least one printhead integrated circuit having ink ejection nozzles and an ink distribution support mounting the printhead integrated circuit(s). The ink distribution support distributes ink from the ink supply to the nozzles. The printing cartridge is mounted to the printer at the ink distribution support which is provided with at least one reference feature. The reference feature(s) serves to provide information on the location of the nozzles upon mounting of the printing cartridge to the printer. The ink distribution support is a molding formed from liquid crystal polymer. The liquid crystal polymer of the ink distribution support having thermal expansion characteristics similar to those of a silicon wafer of which the printhead integrated circuit is formed.
US07775640B2 Printhead ink delivery system with clamping endcap
The present invention relates to an ink delivery system for a printhead. The ink delivery system includes an ink delivery extrusion defining a plurality of ink flow passages. The ink delivery extrusion also defines a series of patterned holes in fluid communication with the passages and through which ink can be provided to printhead modules. At least one endcap has a spine from which a pair of plates is integrally hinged so that the extrusion can be clamped between the plates. The spine includes a row of plugs that can be received within respective flow passages of the extrusion.
US07775633B2 Pagewidth printhead assembly having a plurality of printhead modules each with a stack of ink distribution layers
Provided is a pagewidth printhead assembly having a plurality of printhead modules. Each of these modules includes a printhead integrated circuit (IC) having a plurality of ink ejection nozzles, and an ink distribution assembly formed from a stack of ink distribution layers. Each layer defines apertures therein at predetermined locations, with the layers laminated together so that the apertures complementarily define ink distribution channels to the printhead IC. Each module also includes a tape automated bonding (TAB) film connected to the printhead IC for arranging said IC in signal communication with a controller of the printhead assembly.
US07775631B2 Modular pagewidth printhead assembly having a fluid distribution assembly with elastomeric pads for taking up tolerance
A modular pagewidth printhead assembly includes a plurality of printhead modules, a fluid delivery structure and a flexible printed circuit board. Each printhead module includes a printhead integrated circuit with a plurality of micro-electromechanical nozzle arrangements, and a fluid distribution assembly of liquid crystal polymer micromoldings defining a plurality of discrete fluid paths when joined for supplying discrete fluids to the nozzle arrangements. The fluid delivery structure is configured to receive the printhead modules and to supply said modules with discrete fluids. The flexible printed circuit board is sandwiched between the supply structure and the printhead modules, and is bonded to the supply structure to keep it in place. The circuit board extends around one edge of the supply structure for carrying data and power to said modules. The fluid distribution assembly includes at least one elastomeric pad to take up tolerance when the relevant module is located on the supply structure.
US07775625B2 Printer having capper for duplexed printheads
A printer is provided having a pagewidth printhead assembly having opposed pagewidth printheads, a pagewidth capping member located adjacent the printheads, and an actuating mechanism arranged to move the printheads and capping member. Each printhead has a plurality of ink ejection nozzles arranged across the pagewidth to deliver ink onto opposite faces of print media as it is transported between the printheads. The actuating mechanism moves the printheads between respective printing positions and a non-printing position, and the capping member between the printheads in the non-printing position to cap the nozzles.
US07775622B2 Inkjet printing apparatus and preliminary discharge control method of said apparatus
In an inkjet printing apparatus which performs printing on a printing medium using an inkjet printhead for discharging ink, preliminary discharge, where ink discharge irrespective of printing is performed at the time of print execution, is performed under a predetermined condition. The printing apparatus includes a control section and a setting section. The control section executes a preliminary discharge by the printhead, which has a plurality of discharge orifices, before a predetermined time has elapsed since a latest preliminary discharge, in printing of an image, and the setting section sets the predetermined time. The setting section obtains an elapsed time after executing the preliminary discharge until a discharge failure occurs in any one of the plurality of discharge orifices, and sets the elapsed time as the predetermined time.
US07775620B2 Substrate for ink jet recording head, driving control method, ink jet recording head, and ink jet recording apparatus
A substrate for an ink jet recording head, the substrate provided with an electrothermal transducer for generating thermal energy used for discharging ink and a driving circuit for driving the electrothermal transducer, the substrate having a logical circuit for outputting, at a second voltage amplitude level based on an input signal of a first voltage amplitude level, a selection signal for designating the electrothermal transducer to be driven, a driving circuit for driving the electrothermal transducer based on the selection signal from the logical circuit in units of blocks, and a buffer circuit which has current supply capability enabling gates fed with one selection signal to be all driven in the driving circuit and relays the selection signal between the logical circuit and the driving circuit.
US07775618B2 Recording apparatus and data processing method
An object of the present invention is to provide a recording apparatus in which the occurrence of smearing and bleeding in the borders between black and color pixels can be reduced, and in which high-quality black characters and black images can be recorded. Black adjacent pixels, in which pixels adjacent to their periphery are black pixels, and color adjacent pixels, which are composed of pixels wherein pixels adjacent to their periphery are recorded with colored ink, are extracted from each pixels constituting a black image, and color ink data is created so that color ink is applied according to a certain ratio for the black adjacent pixels or color adjacent pixels. The occurrence of smearing and bleeding is suppressed by performing recording according to original data and the created color ink data.
US07775617B2 Printing apparatus and control method of the printing apparatus
In an ink jet printing apparatus using a plurality of printing heads arranged in a convey direction of a printing medium, an inclination angle of the printing medium to a predetermined convey direction is detected to adjust, in accordance with the resultant inclination angle, timings at which ink is jetted from the plurality of printing heads. This allows, even when the printing medium being subjected to a printing operation has a slight meander shape, an image to be formed on a printing medium so that printing positions of the plurality of printing heads have no dislocation.
US07775607B2 Antiskid control—combined paired/individual wheel control logic
An anti-skid brake control system for a multi-wheeled vehicle includes both a paired function and an individual function. The paired function controls the wheels of the vehicle in unison. The individual function controls the wheels of the vehicle individually. A paired/individual logic circuit alternatively activates and deactivates the paired function and the individual function. A method for controlling the skid of a vehicle utilizing a paired function and a individual function is also provided.
US07775606B2 Motor vehicle brake power proportioning method and device with an elastic element
A motor vehicle brake power proportioning device has a brake control force proportioned by a balance-beam-type device at a variable ratio onto different brake cylinders, particularly to the master brake cylinders of the front and rear axle of the motor vehicle. The balance-beam-type device is configured so that a lever arm adjustment, that is continuously a function of the brake control force, can be achieved for a constant course of the proportioning of the brake control force onto the brake cylinders. For achieving the lever arm adjustment as a function of the brake control force, at least one section of the balance-beam-type device is continuously deformable as a function of the brake control force.
US07775605B2 Vehicle wheel with rock guard
A wheel assembly for a vehicle includes a wheel having a first rim half and a second rim half secured together to form an annular outer rim for receiving a tire. The rim halves have aligned central openings and aligned apertures for receiving fasteners for mounting a wheel hub on the wheel. In one embodiment, at least the central opening of one of the rim halves includes a plurality of spaced recesses around its periphery. A rock guard built into the wheel includes a plurality of rock guard formations each forming a shield which fills at least a major portion of any space between a respective recess and the wheel hub to block at least some debris from passing through the wheel while allowing airflow through the wheel.
US07775604B2 Interlocking method and its structure for wheel-rim cover
An interlocking method and its structure for wheel-rim cover is provided and includes a plurality of engaging seats integrally formed along the peripheral edge of the rear side of a wheel-rim cover body. Each engaging seat has an interlocking block pivotally coupled thereto. An inner edge of the interlocking block forms the pivotal axis thereof and is displaceably disposed on an inclined surface of an engaging slot formed in the engaging seat. The outer edge of the interlocking block is displaceably disposed in an engaging groove of the wheel-rim body. By that arrangement, displacement of the wheel-rim cover body toward the hub of the wheel-rim body results in a displacement of the interlocking block to provide respective frictional engagement of the inner and outer ends of the interlocking block with the inclined surface of the engaging slot and the surface of the engaging groove.
US07775598B2 Fitting for a vehicle seat
In the case of a fitting (10) for a vehicle seat, in particular for a motor vehicle seat, having a first fitting part (11), a second fitting part (12) in geared connection with the first fitting part (11), and a rotatably mounted eccentric (26, 27) driven by a driver (21, 26) to cause relative rolling between the first fitting part (11) and the second fitting part (12), a third fitting part (54) can be both pivoted freely relative to the first fitting part (11) in an unlocked state and locked with respect to the first fitting part (11) in a locked state, wherein a disengagement mechanism (80) is provided for maintaining the unlocked state of the third fitting (11) part during pivoting freely.
US07775597B2 Folding seats
A folding seat has a support structure, a backrest and a seat base. The seat base is pivotally mounted on the support structure for pivoting between a seating position with the seat base extending generally horizontally and the backrest generally vertically, a stored position with the base and backrest both extending generally vertically, and a table position with base and backrest both extending generally horizontally. A first over-centre spring biases the seat base towards its generally horizontal position or its generally vertical position depending on the location of the base. Also, a second over-centre spring biases the backrest towards its generally vertical position or its generally horizontal position depending on the location of the backrest.
US07775596B2 Smartfold electronic actuation
An electronic trigger assembly for triggering an actuator, the electronic trigger assembly having a trigger member capable of connection to the actuator. The trigger member may be configured for rotation between a first position and a second position and the trigger member may be able to trigger the actuator as the trigger member rotates between the first position and the second position. The trigger member may also include a guide. A shape memory alloy member may be connected to the trigger member and may be received by the guide such that a substantial portion of the shape memory alloy member is disposed in a curvilinear arrangement. The shape memory alloy member may contract when electrified. The shape memory alloy member may be confined by the guide to contract along a path such that the shape memory alloy member exerts torque on the trigger member and causes the trigger member to rotate from the first position to the second position.
US07775593B2 Adjusting device of a chair backrest
An adjusting device of a chair backrest includes a movable base, a connecting block and a positioning unit. The movable base encompasses an adjusting opening having plural continuous V-shaped grooves in two vertical sidewalls, a stopping groove and a projecting-downward portion, and two sliding rails. The connecting block is fitted in the movable base, possessing a rectangular recess. The positioning unit is installed in the rectangular recess, having two upholding feet fixed with the connecting block and respectively having a locking projection and a locking groove corresponding to each other. A spring is put between the upholding feet to elastically expand them. With the movable base fixed with the backrest and the connecting block fixed with a connecting rod, the movable base can be moved up and down together with the backrest, with the height of the backrest adjusted.
US07775592B2 Seat frame of a motor vehicle seat with a seat carrier having two side parts
The invention relates to a seat frame of a motor vehicle seat with a seat carrier having two side parts that are oriented transverse to a front axis and to a rear axis, a pivotal bridge being pivotal about at least one of said axes, said bridge comprising a tie bar and two side arms, and with an adjustment device having a motor-driven drive unit. The drive unit is arranged for pivotal movement about a hinge shaft that is substantially centered on that axis of the two axes about which said pivotal bridge is pivotal. Said hinge shaft is shorter than the distance between the two seat parts and is not in contact with said two seat parts, but if at all with only one side part. There is provided at least one inner arm that connects said tie bar to said hinge shaft and is located in proximity to said drive unit.
US07775591B2 Fitting system for a vehicle seat
In a fitting connected at one side to a backrest structure of a backrest and at the other side to the supporting structure of a seat part, having a first actuating element, by way of which the fitting can be activated to adjust the inclination of the backrest between use positions in a first angle range, having a second actuating element, by way of which the fitting can be activated so as to pivot the backrest freely from a use position in the first angle range into a pivoted-free position in a second angle range, and having a ring which is rotatably mounted on the fitting, when the fitting is activated, the second actuating element couples the backrest to the ring, so that the backrest, as it is pivoted freely, drives the ring at least when the second angle range is reached, and the ring then unlocks a longitudinal adjuster.
US07775587B1 Sport/pak/chair
A compact portable chair with attachable combination padded seat and backrest. The chair further includes a backrest framework hingeably joined with the seat framework. A back support framework is rotatable between an upwardly extended position for establishing a backrest and a laid-over position to parallel with the seat framework. Back and front leg support frameworks are hingeably joined to the underside of the seat framework and are rotatable inward and upward to parallel positions with the seat framework. The four legs are individually adjustable by means of a sliding sleeve and button locking system. The compact portable chair is further mountable onto a person's back by means of a detachable pair of shoulder straps connected to the backrest and seat frameworks. The chair further has cup holders included with a pair of armrests that are detachable. A further embodiment includes an attachable backpack.
US07775585B2 Fender configuration
A fender configuration for a motor vehicle has a fender and a deformation element which is C-shaped in cross section. For the substantially vertically oriented supporting of an upper edge of the fender, an upper limb of the deformation element is connected to the fender and a lower limb is connected to the vehicle body. It is important that the C-shaped deformation element is arranged such that it is open toward the associated fender.
US07775583B2 Force and deceleration delimiting devices and methods for operating the same
Force and deceleration delimiting methods for operating the same in a vehicle generally include an open celled material expandable from a non-expanded to an expanded state, wherein the material is sandwiched between first and second end cap members; an optional support surface cooperatively positioned with the material to cover a surface of the material in the expanded and non-expanded states; an optional shield cooperatively positioned with the material to cover a surface of the material in the expanded and non-expanded states; and an activation mechanism adapted to regulate selective expansion of the material from the non-expanded to the expanded state in response to a triggering event, wherein the support surface and/or shield have a compact shape when the material is in the non-expanded state and an expanded state when the material is in the expanded state.
US07775582B2 Pivotally deployable air dam utilizing active material actuation
An active air dam adapted for use with a vehicle, includes a deflector pivotally translatable relative to the vehicle, so as to be caused to achieve stowed and deployed conditions, wherein the deflector, when in the deployed condition, is configured to occlude air flow beneath the vehicle, and further includes an active material actuator comprising an active material drivenly coupled to the deflector, and configured to cause the deflector to pivot to one of the stowed and deployed conditions as a result of activating the material, and the vehicle is preferably configured to cause the actuator to pivot the deflector when a pre-determined vehicle or external condition is detected.
US07775574B2 On-vehicle stretcher and litter
A stretcher fixture installed on the floor surface of the cargo bed of an ambulance or the like to fix a stretcher on the cargo bed of the ambulance or the like, characterized by having a front hook which is mounted on the front floor surface of the cargo bed of an ambulance or the like to fix the front part of the stretcher; and a lock plate which is installed on the rear floor surface and has a lock piece engaging with a lock supporter installed in the rear part of the stretcher.
US07775562B2 Quick connector
A quick connector includes a female pipe having a flange in the outer peripheral part thereof, a male pipe having a retainer mounting part, and a retainer slidably mounted on the retainer mounting part of the male pipe to slide at a right angle to the axial direction of the male pipe, in which the female pipe and the male pipe are connected with each other by the retainer holding the flange of the female pipe, and the retainer is allowed to move from a temporarily fixed position to a completely pushed-in position on the retainer mounting part only when the female pipe and the male pipe are in a completely connected state, so that a worker can easily and reliably check whether the pipes are in an incompletely connected state or in a completely connected state by means of hand feeling only without relying on a visual check.
US07775551B2 Inflatable protection device with manifold
An apparatus (10) for helping to protect an occupant of a vehicle (12) includes an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (14). The protection device (14) includes panels (40 and 42) and a plurality of chambers (54) at least partially defined by the panels. An inflation fluid source (24) is actuatable to provide inflation fluid for inflating the protection device (14). The protection device (14) further includes a manifold (100) at least partially defined by the overlying panels (40 and 42). The manifold (100) includes a plenum portion (102) for receiving inflation fluid from the inflation fluid source and duct portions (104) that branch from the plenum portion and distribute inflation fluid into the chambers (54).
US07775550B2 Airbag cover with an emblem
The present invention relates to an airbag cover (11) for automotive vehicles comprising means to predetermine its breaking during deployment of the airbag cushion, incorporating an emblem (13) formed by at least two independent parts (21, 23) and which is fixed to the cover (11) by means of the aid of one or more rods arranged on its inner face and comprising at least two areas (31, 35), each of which includes snap-fitting means cooperating with the rods of each of said at least two parts (21, 23) and an intermediate area (33) between them which is configured such that it can work as a bending area of the snap-fitting plate (17) during deployment of the airbag cushion, allowing relative movement between the parts (21,23) of the emblem (13).
US07775549B2 Roof-lining module
The disclosed roof-lining module is used for installation in a motor vehicle. The roof-lining module comprises a roof-lining covering for covering an inside of a motor vehicle roof skin, wherein a side of the roof-lining faces the vehicle floor; and an airbag module secured on the roof-lining covering with at least one gas generator. The gas generator extends longitudinally over at least a partial region of the roof-lining covering.
US07775548B2 Standing baby stroller
A stroller for transporting a child includes a wheeled frame including at least two base rails interconnected by a cylindrical hub, a spine, and a bracing linkage. A basket attaches to the spine, confining the child and supporting a seat ring. The seat ring includes upper and lower connected concentric arcs having different radii and supports a seat back on its lower arc. The seat back reclines, and the seat ring rotates from center. A seat base is supported on the frame and includes a platform movable between an extended position disposed inside the seat ring and a retracted position withdrawn from the seat ring. The stroller permits the child to be safely and comfortably transported in a standing, seated, or reclined position.
US07775545B2 Retractable hitch-ball mechanism
This invention is related to a retractable hitch-ball mechanism adapted for coupling to a frame of a vehicle, such as a pickup truck. The mechanism includes a support structure that is secured to the frame by a mounting-frame assembly, a housing having a tubular sleeve, a hitch ball member slidably disposed within the tubular sleeve, a drive plate, and a linkage coupled to the drive plate at one end and having a user-engageable portion at an opposed end. Upon a user exerting force on the opposed end, the hitch ball member is selectively movable between an extended use position, wherein a portion of the hitch ball member extends upwardly from the tubular sleeve, and a retracted storage position, wherein the ball portion is substantially hidden. Selective adjustment is facilitated by an inclined edge on the drive plate that slidably engages at least a portion of the hitch ball member.
US07775537B2 Ingress/egress steps for a highway truck
A truck cab has a side door (14) via which a person enters and exits the cab by ascending and descending steps (22, 24, 26; 40, 42, 44) on a side of the truck. At least one of the steps is selectively positionable to a deployed position for use by a person ascending or descending the steps and to a non-deployed position when the truck is to be driven. The deployed position is relatively more outboard on the side of the truck than the non-deployed position.
US07775533B2 Payload-carrying motor vehicle with tag axle having disableable brakes
A payload-carrying motor vehicle comprises a steer axle, at least one drive axle and a tag axle. All of the axles have wheels with tires and air brakes and a tag axle suspension system is adapted to suspend the tag axle in an active condition wherein the tag axle is pivotal about a first axis parallel to the other axles and also about a second axis located equidistant from the tag axle wheels and laying in a plane at right angles to the first axis and wherein the tag axle is forced to urge the tag axle tires against a road surface to aid in supporting the vehicle. An air brake system is adapted to operate the air brakes of all the wheels and a tag axle operating system is adapted to establish the tag axle in the active condition while enabling operation of the air brakes of the tag axle wheels and to disable operation of the air brakes of the tag axle wheels when the tag axle pivots about the second axis and reaches a predetermined tilt angle in maintaining contact of the tag axle tires with a road surface.
US07775532B2 Stroller connectable with a car seat
A stroller is connected with a car seat, and includes a frame, a seat portion disposed on the frame, and a supporting member mounted to the seat portion. The supporting member is convertible between a supporting state where the supporting member stands on the seat portion, and a retracted state where the supporting member is disposed under the seat portion.
US07775523B2 Card game
A method and apparatus for assembling one or more coherent images from a plurality of segments of the coherent image reproduced on parts, pieces, blocks, cards, or the like is disclosed. In one embodiment of the present invention, the face of each segment includes a portion of the resulting single coherent image. When all segments are correctly arranged and stacked, or overlapped, with the correct orientation, the visible images on the faces of the segments mesh to form one or more larger coherent images. A variety of plates or stands are disclosed to aid the player in stacking the segments and arranging them with the proper orientation during the reassembly process. Additionally, information or images may be included on the portions of the faces of each segment that are obscured by other segments when the segments are properly assembled, thereby allowing such games to have multiple uses.
US07775519B2 Large capacity sheet feeding apparatus having an intermediate conveying device
A sheet feeding apparatus includes a sheet stacking section configured to stack a number of sheets, a sheet feeding mechanism configured to feed the sheet stacked on the sheet stacking section one by one, and an intermediate conveying device configured to convey the sheet fed from the sheet feeding mechanism to an image forming apparatus. The intermediate conveying device includes a plurality of sheet conveying devices arranged in an intermediate sheet conveying path at certain intervals to convey the sheet fed from the sheet feeding mechanism, at least one driving device configured to drive each of the plurality of sheet conveying devices, and a plurality of sheet detecting devices arranged in the intermediate sheet conveying path at certain intervals to detect a sheet length by detecting at least one of a leading edge and a trailing edge of the conveyed sheet. The sheet feeding apparatus further includes a control device configured to judge the length of a first sheet according to signals sent from the plurality of sheet detecting devices at an initialization time at which the conveying operation for the first sheet is completed, in which when the sheet feeding apparatus and the image forming apparatus are mechanically connected and are allowed to communicate with each other, the control device stops a sheet conveying operation of the image forming apparatus if the length of a sheet is judged to be different from the length of the first sheet after the initialization time.
US07775517B2 Card collection mechanism and card issuing device
A card collection mechanism may include a card collection box for collecting a card, a feeding roller for carrying the card from a feeding passage to the card collection box, and a guide part for guiding the card to the card collection box. The guide part guides the card while the guide part causes the card to be resiliently bent in a direction where an urging force directed to a surface of the feeding roller is applied to the card when the card is fed to the card collection box, and the feeding roller carries the card to a state in which the card is capable of being collected in the card collection box. The card collection mechanism may be used in a card issuing device having a card issuing part.
US07775513B2 Mobile feeder system
A mobile feeder system is provided including a feeder having a center of gravity, and an intermediate feeder base supporting the feeder for horizontal movement between a cantilevered position in which the center of gravity lies outside the intermediate base and a non-cantilevered position in which the center of gravity lies over the intermediate base. A gathering device is also provided.
US07775511B2 Stitching device and method for stitching printed products
According to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, a stitching device comprises a stitcher and a conveyor for moving unbound printed products past the stitcher for stitching. According to a feature of the present invention, the conveyor includes a timing belt having a plurality of pushing elements for engaging and moving the unbound printed products past the stitcher.
US07775506B2 Lift assembly, system, and method
A lift assembly system and method can include a substantially rectangular tube, a motor operably connected to first and second traction drives and a rotatable drum and structurally connected to one end of the tube, a head block fixed to the opposite end of the tube, and a plurality of loft blocks positionable at an infinite number of locations within the tube. An elongate member attached on one end to the drum can be routed through a generally horizontal path from the drum to the first and second traction drives, the head block, and the loft blocks, and then through a generally vertical path from the loft block to an attached article. The elongate member can be wound about the drum to raise the article, and unwound from the drum to lower the article. The system can further include a load-side braking mechanism. The tube can include a compressible material adapted to absorb at least a portion of a horizontal load placed on the lift system.
US07775505B2 Butterfly valve having improved sealing between a shaft seal part and a valve disc
A butterfly valve includes a seat ring fitted to an inner peripheral surface of a hollow cylindrical valve body, and a discal valve disc in which a shaft is mounted. The shaft is rotatably mounted in through-holes of the seat ring. An annular protrusion having a first tapered surface inclined at 20°-40° with respect to the valve axis is formed at the peripheral edge of each of the through holes of the seat ring. A bowl-shaped annular depression at each end of the valve shaft hole includes a second tapered surface inclined at 25°-45° with respect to the axis and engaged with a respective first tapered surface.
US07775504B2 Fluid flow control device
A fluid flow control device (1) comprising at least one valve, the or each valve being controlled by an electrically-operate e actuator (32), a control means (27) for controlling the actuators and a communication means (28) to provide signals for the control means (27), wherein the device (1) includes an electrical power generation means (5) to generate electricity from the flow of fluid in the control device to operate the actuators (32), the control means (27) and the communication means (28). The device does not require an external electricity supply as it generates its entire electricity requirement locally. The device (1) may also receive instructions wirelessly to control the at least one valve.
US07775502B2 Ball valve with a rotatable body capable of being kept out of substantial contact with a seat member
A ball valve having a reduced sized is provided, that includes a first shaft that extends into a housing accommodating a valve body along a rotational axis of the valve body and is connected to the valve body; and a second shaft that extends into the housing to be oppositely located to the first shaft and is rotatable about an axis line, and has a pressing part that projects radially outwardly from at least a part of the outer circumference of the second shaft. The ball valve is capable of instantly and securely opening and closing communication passages, and changing the direction of fluid flow, while being capable of minimizing the wearing of a seat member for shutting off the communication passages, by having a valve body rotatable while being kept out of contact or substantial contact with the seat member.
US07775498B2 Anti-tip device for an appliance with an interlock switch
An appliance includes a leg for support upon a support surface, an interlock switch mechanically coupled to the leg and electrically coupled to control circuitry of the appliance, an anti-tip bracket having an aperture configured to receive a portion of the leg, and means for operating the interlock switch when the leg is properly positioned within the aperture. In one example, an actuator is coupled to the leg and is movable relative to the leg when the leg is positioned within the aperture. In another example, the interlock switch includes a first and second electrode, and selective electrical contact occurs between the first and second electrodes when the actuator is moved. In another example, a member projects from the appliance and the anti-tip is configured to receive a portion of the member. A method is also provided for preventing use of an appliance due to improper installation of the appliance.
US07775496B2 Metal support column shipping assembly
A metal support column shipping assembly, including a metal tubular support column with a shaft protruding from a top end of the support column. A top plate is provided having an aperture extending therethrough adapted to engage a remote end of the shaft. A bottom plate is provided which has a collar adapted to engage a bottom end of the support column. The bottom plate also has an aperture extending therethrough. The assembly has the shaft extending through the aperture in the top plate and the aperture in the bottom plate. A nut positioned on the shaft prevents the top plate and the bottom plate from being removed from the shaft.
US07775495B2 Adapter assembly including telescoping links
An adjustable clamp apparatus for use in automated handling equipment includes a ball mount portion that provides rotational adjustment and a clamp portion for securing a support arm in a plurality of different positions. The clamp portion comprises an opening having a rectilinear cross-section.
US07775490B2 Suction cup and fabrication method therefor
A suction cup, includes: a suction cup body made of a synthetic resin material having elasticity; and a gel layer bonded to the suction cup body and having a surface serving as a suction face; the suction cup body being made of thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer, the gel layer being made of two-pack thermosetting polyurethane gel, the suction cup body and the gel layer being bonded to each other by bonding of an isocyanate group which the thermoplastic polyurethane elastomer has and a hydroxyl group which the two-pack thermosetting polyurethane gel has.
US07775489B2 Support foot for cabinets
The present invention refers to a support foot for cabinets, in particular outer casings of home electric appliances.The support foot (1) according to the present invention comprises a bush (3) provided with at least one lug (4) for said bush (3) to be able to be clamped and fastened within an aperture (5) provided in the bottom wall (2) of a cabinet; the foot (1) further comprises a resting member (9) associated to the bush (3), and is characterized in that said at least one lug (4) comprises one or more serrations or teeth (8) adapted to cooperate with at least a protrusion (6) provided on said bottom wall (2) in proximity of said aperture (5).
US07775485B2 Display support arm and ultrasonic imaging apparatus
A display support arm includes a first swing arm having a first end portion positioned vertically on top of a housing and further having a second end portion, the first swing arm causing the second end portion to rotate in a horizontal plane with the first end portion as a rotational center, a second swing arm having a third end portion joined vertically to the second end portion and further having a fourth end portion, the second swing arm causing the fourth end portion to rotate in a horizontal plane with the third end potion as a rotational center, a display joined vertically to the fourth end portion, a first lock device for locking a rotational motion of the first swing arm automatically when the housing and the first swing arm reach a predetermined relative position, a second lock device for locking a relative rotational motion of the first and second swing arms automatically when the first and second swing arms vertically reach a position where the two overlap each other, and a lock setting device for switching the first and second lock devices in one behavior to a lockable state able to effect locking automatically in the predetermined relative position and the overlapping position or an unlockable state failing to perform the locking in the predetermined relative position and the overlapping position.
US07775482B2 Aircraft icing sensor
An apparatus for detecting the presence of ice includes a sensory circuit including a sensor operable to be coupled to a surface exposed to moisture. The sensory circuit is operable to create an electromagnetic standing wave. A heating element is coupled to the surface and a first transmission line. A first source is coupled to the first transmission line and is operable to inject a driving signal into the first transmission line, the driving signal being operable to drive the heating element. A mixing element is coupled to the sensory circuit and first transmission line and is operable to produce a mixed signal from the driving signal and a measure of the standing wave. A comparator is operable to compare at least one characteristic of the mixed signal with reference data for determining the presence of ice contacting the sensor.
US07775479B2 Lining framework for an aircraft
Disclosed is a lining framework for fastening seats in an aircraft. The lining framework preferably comprises three seat rails, which are arranged in a spaced apart manner parallel to each other along both side walls of the fuselage cell. Sitting surfaces of a plurality of seats are suspended on the seat rails by textile straps consisting of high-strength, woven plastic material. At least two straps are arranged between the upper seat rail and two frames of the fuselage cell of the aircraft. In this case, a strap length is measured so that forces from the fuselage cell cannot be transmitted into the lining framework. By the same token, however, forces from the lining framework can be introduced into the fuselage cell by means of the straps so that the lining framework can be designed statically lighter. This leads to a weight reduction of the lining framework.
US07775478B2 Floor beam assembly, system, and associated method
A floor beam assembly, system, and method for installing floor beams within a structure are provided. According to one embodiment, a floor beam assembly for installing a floor beam within a structure is provided. The assembly includes at least one floor beam and at least one floor beam bracket attached to a respective floor beam. The assembly also includes at least one pivot arm pivotally attached to the structure. In addition, the assembly includes a pad attached to the at least one pivot arm, wherein the at least one pivot arm is configured to pivot the pad to a position proximate to a respective floor beam bracket to be attached thereto.
US07775475B2 Winding drum for sheet-like member
The object of the present invention is to provide a winding drum for a sheet-like member which can change reliably the range of air sucking intake holes by a simple structure, and to provide a winding drum which can prevent the generation of an unwanted contact mark on the sheet-like member. This winding drum having a hollow portion which is in communication with the intake holes of the drum body, a changeover member which is releasably attached in the hollow portion and which is formed so as to extend along the inner peripheral surface of the hollow portion, and an air passage (second communicating holes, first communicating hole, and hole) which is provided on the changeover member and which communicates intake holes of a predetermined range in the axial direction of the drum body with the suction device when the changeover member is attached in the hollow portion. So the range of air sucking intake holes is switched by changing the changeover member to another changeover member with another air passage.
US07775474B2 Wire winding apparatus
A wire winding apparatus can reduce the burden of momentum on the side of the nozzle cooperated with the spindle shaft in winding operation, thereby enabling an effective winding operation. The winding apparatus comprises a carrier carrying at least one bobbin to be wound with wire, a nozzle for supplying the wire to be wound around the bobbin, a spindle shaft for rotating the bobbin, a working table disposed opposite to the nozzle and spindle shaft so as to introduce the carrier into between the nozzle and spindle shaft, wherein the spindle shaft is retractable relative to the bobbin carried on the carrier fed onto the working table so as to allow the bobbin to move between the carrier and nozzle.
US07775472B2 Information medium
An information medium capable of preventing inclination of tape reels driven for rotation. The information medium includes a pair of tape reels around which a magnetic tape is wound, a casing body rotatably accommodating the tape reels, and a pair of sheets in which a pair of insertion holes are formed, respectively. A pair of plate-shape spring members for urging at least one end of each reel body via an associated one of the sheets having opposite ends of respective hubs inserted into the insertion holes formed in the sheets are arranged at least one of a gap between one of the sheets, disposed toward one ends of the respective reel bodies, and one of main boards, and a gap between the other of the sheets, disposed toward the other ends of the respective reel bodies, and the other of the main boards.
US07775461B2 Nozzle devices
This invention relates to pump-action nozzle devices methods of making the same. The nozzle devices of the invention comprises a body which defines an internal chamber having an inlet through which fluid may be drawn into said chamber and an outlet through which fluid present in the chamber may be expelled from the nozzle. The inlet comprises an inlet valve and the outlet comprises an outlet valve. Fluid is dispensed from the dispenser nozzles by applying pressure to an actuator member that engages and resiliently deforms or displaces a portion of the body of the device that defines the chamber, thereby compressing the chamber and actuating the dispensing of fluid. In preferred embodiments, the actuator provides a rigid actuator surface that an operator can apply a pressure to.
US07775458B2 Automated cleansing sprayer
The invention relates to an automated sprayer for spraying the walls of a bath and shower enclosure with a cleanser. The sprayer has a housing that can be mounted inside the shower enclosure and that defines a tray in which an inverted bottle of cleanser is stored. The bottom of the tray has a tube extending downwardly along a longitudinal axis through which the cleanser can pass. A motorized head disposed beneath the tube can be rotated about the axis for metering cleanser from the bottle and spraying cleanser outward. The sprayer includes timer circuitry that delays commencement of a spray for a set time and automatically stops spraying after a predetermined period. The sprayer also includes a system for signaling the beginning of a spray cycle including audio and visual alarms. The invention focuses on methods of using such equipment, as well as a container for supplying such equipment.
US07775455B2 Railway rail supporting pad
An object of the invention is to provide a railway rail supporting pad that allows easy operations at a field site. In the invention, there is provided an outer bag made of a synthetic resin sheet housing a first inner bag and a second inner bag, the first inner bag containing a first reaction solution, the second inner bag containing a second reaction solution, the first and the second inner bags being configured to open at least partly due to outer pressure, the outer bag being provided with a separable sub bag in a communicative manner, an inlet of the sub bag as a communication part between the outer bag and the sub bag being closed by an easily debondable sealed portion, an interior of the sub bag being formed with a plurality of partitioning spaces partitioned by another easily debondable sealed portion.
US07775454B2 Load management thermostat
A thermostat is provided that is capable of reliably reducing the operation of an air conditioner and other systems to provide energy cost savings to the consumer and load reduction to a utility provider. The thermostat includes at least one sensor configured to communicate information indicative of the temperature within the space, and a memory for storing at least one temperature offset value associated with a request for reduced heating or reduced cooling operation. The thermostat further includes a controller in communication with the at least one sensor, which is configured to periodically determine a temperature value for the space and to control heating or cooling of the space until the determined temperature value has substantially reached the set-point temperature. The periodically determined temperature value is in part based on information received from the at least one sensor, and may include at least one temperature offset value when a request for reduced operation has been received by the thermostat.
US07775453B2 Vehicle air-conditioner control system
A vehicle air-conditioner control system according to the present invention activates an air conditioner in response to a command from an air-conditioner remote controller before a passenger is onboard, controls the air conditioner based on a heat load detected by a heat load detector, controls the air conditioner to be set in a silent mode so as not to make the passenger feel uncomfortable due to an air-conditioning wind when a passenger-proximity determiner determines that the passenger is proximate to the vehicle.
US07775452B2 Serial communicating HVAC system
An HVAC system is provided with control communication over a serial data bus. In this manner, the hard wired controls of the prior art are eliminated. A thermostat includes a central control microprocessor that communicates control signals to and from a microprocessor at an indoor unit. The indoor unit may be a furnace or a fan/heater combination. The microprocessor on the indoor unit is operable to receive signals from the central control microprocessor and control the indoor unit accordingly. Moreover, the microprocessor at the indoor unit is operable to pass control signals on to an outdoor unit such as an air conditioner or heat pump. Most preferably, this outdoor unit is provided with its own microprocessor. Further, other peripheral units may be incorporated to be controlled over the same data bus from the thermostat. Installation and updating of HVAC systems is greatly simplified by this control arrangement.
US07775451B2 Variable flow mixing valve
The invention relates to a variable flow mixing valve for use in a Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning module. The module is particularly suited for use in a vehicle. The variable flow mixing valve includes drive means which drive a mixing door and a baffle between various positions in order to allow a relatively warm flow of air, from a first chamber, to mix with a relatively cool flow of air from a second chamber. The baffle and door are linked in such a way as to provide an aperture therebetween through which, in use, the first and/or second flows of air pass. A parking area is also provided for the baffle and is shaped in order to reflect airflow back toward the first and second chambers.
US07775450B2 Thermostatic mixing valve for vertical mounting upon a horizontal bathtub deck
An adjustable height housing enables a thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) with a dial permitting manual control of bathtub shower water temperature to be vertically mounted in a horizontal bathtub deck. The housing can be installed on a narrow bathtub rim yet also accommodates substantial substrate thickness of bathtub decks where required. Manual adjustment of hot and cold ring stops is performed from the top-side using only a screwdriver to gain access. The housing includes a long threaded outer sleeve which extends from near the top deck surface to the thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) cartridge body housing below, thereby accommodating any deck thickness from a 1/16 inch thick stainless steel tub edge to a compound deck construction up to 2¾ inches thick. The rotatable temperature dial is coupled to a cap rotatable by the adjustment handle which, in turn, rotates an adjustable extension shaft within the housing.
US07775449B2 System and method for controlling a multi-zone heating or cooling system
A control system is provided for automatically setting up and controlling a climate control system for a building having one or more zones and one or more thermostats in communication with the associated heating or cooling components of the climate control system. In some embodiments, the climate control system comprises one or more heating or cooling systems which may be controlled by one or more thermostats. In other embodiments, the climate control system comprises a thermostat, a heating and cooling system, one or more remote temperature sensors corresponding to at least some of the one or more zones within the building, and one or more dampers corresponding to at least some of the one or more zones within the building.
US07775445B2 Reference equipment for testing contactless payment devices
Reference equipment including a reference card and a reference reader is provided for testing electronic payment devices such as cards and card readers. The reference equipment is designed to simulate the external behavior of a variety of payment devices that are currently or expected to be deployed in electronic payment systems. Further, the reference equipment is configured to subject devices under test to extreme behaviors which are expected in field use or which are representative of a large class of payment devices. The external behaviors may relate to functional parameters, for example, power consumption, resonance frequency, Q-factor, modulation depth, noise, and timing. Exemplary reference devices are configured to exhibit representative external behavior, which is an empirically determined average behavior of the product devices in the field. Use of the reference equipment for product specification compliance testing will enhance the interoperability of product payment devices.
US07775443B2 Portable data storage device and packaging method
A portable data storage device (such as a USB flash drive) including a housing shaped to facilitate a reversible packaging of at least one such portable data storage device into an object having a shape of a ring, preferably having dimensions of a standard CD ROM, a non-volatile memory within the housing for storing digital information, and a connecting mechanism protruding from the housing for reversibly operationally connecting the non-volatile memory to a host. The housing includes a mechanism for reversibly packaging together the portable data storage device to other such portable data storage devices. The scope of the invention also includes a method of distributing such portable data storage devices.
US07775441B2 Card issuing device
To provide a card issuing device which can be manufactured smaller and at lower cost. The card issuing device includes the card storage in which a plurality of cards are stacked up, the card processing section to which the card is extracted from the card storage and at which information recorded on the card is read or information is recorded on the card, and the card extracting mechanism which extracts the card stored in the card storage toward the card processing section. At the card processing section, a card exposing section is formed so that a portion of the card extracted by the card extracting mechanism is exposed.
US07775438B2 Integrated housing and battery pack for portable data terminals
A housing for a portable computing device. An upper surface of the housing facilitates access to at least one interface component. A lower surface of the housing defines a cavity to receive a battery pack. A battery pack, adapted to fit within the cavity, defines at least a portion of a first ridge for receiving an operator's finger, the first ridge having a generally curved configuration enabling said housing to be comfortably held in an operator's hand when the operator's hand is in its naturally relaxed position.
US07775437B2 Methods and devices for detecting linkable objects
A camera portion of a portable consumer device obtains data from a field of view, and at least a portion of the data is used to determine existence of an object in the field of view for which the information is available from a reference source. An indication is then provided to the user that the object is in the field of view. This can all be accomplished by a functionality, such as computer software, that executes on one or both of the device and a distal server. Objects within the field that the system can identify and provide information are deemed “linkable.” Once a user is presented with an indication of which objects around him are linkable, he can then directly point and click on the linkable objects without the “trial-and-error” process of pointing and clicking on non-linkable objects.
US07775436B2 Method of driving a plurality of visible and invisible LEDs so as to produce an illumination beam having a dynamically managed ratio of visible to invisible (IR) spectral energy/power during object illumination and imaging operations
A method of driving a plurality of visible and invisible laser diodes so as to produce an illumination beam having a dynamically managed ratio of visible to invisible (IR) spectral energy/power during object illumination and imaging operations. The method involves supplying a plurality of visible laser and invisible laser diodes with a predetermined/default values of diode drive currents so as to illuminate the object with a spectral mixture of illumination during object illumination and imaging operations. One or more digital images of the illuminated object are captured and the image contrast quality thereof is measured, in real-time, so as to generate feedback or control data. This feedback or control data is used to dynamically generate the necessary values for the adjusted diode drive currents that are used to drive the visible and invisible laser diodes and produce an illumination beam having a dynamically managed ratio of visible to invisible (IR) spectral energy/power required to produce images of sufficient image contrast to ensure satisfactory image processing, while minimizing visual brightness to humans, at a POS station during object illumination and imaging operations.
US07775435B2 Systems and methods for preserving and maintaining document integrity
Systems and methods consistent with embodiments of the present invention provide for a method for preserving and maintaining document integrity. In some methods for preserving and maintaining document integrity, the contents of a document, or contents of a document layer may be encoded into a machine-readable form. In some embodiments, the encoded information may be represented using a 2-dimensional bar code. In some methods for preserving and maintaining document integrity, the machine-readable code is printed along with contents of the document based on space available in the document. In some embodiments, a printed document containing the machine-readable code may be scanned and digitized, and content extracted from the scanned data. In some embodiments, the machine-readable code printed on the document is used to recreate layer data from the printed document.
US07775433B2 Optical deflection apparatus, image forming apparatus, and method of driving optical deflection apparatus
An optical deflection apparatus including a light source; an optical deflector including first and second oscillators and first and second torsion springs, the first torsion spring connecting the first and second oscillators, the second torsion spring being connected to the second oscillator, and the first and second torsion springs sharing a common torsion axis; and a driver that applies a driving force to the optical deflector; and a driving controller that supplies a driving signal to the driver. The driving controller sets a reference frequency on the basis of a resonant frequency of the optical deflector, calculates a target time at which one of the first and second oscillators makes a predetermined deflection angle on the basis of the reference frequency, and supplies such a driving signal that the one of the first and second oscillators passes through a point corresponding to the predetermined deflection angle at the target time.
US07775432B2 Terminal, method and computer program product for interacting with a signaling tag
A terminal for interacting with a signaling tag includes a controller capable of receiving information regarding a signaling tag at least partially over an air interface. The controller is also capable of determining whether the controller is actively operating an application. In this regard, if the terminal is actively operating an application, the controller is capable of performing a predefined action based upon the application and a state of the application.
US07775426B2 Method and system for facilitating electronic funds transactions
A method and system for executing electronic funds transactions using a merchant-issued payment (MIP) card in a merchant-centric system having benefits which include reduced fees to acquiring merchants and optionally remitting a portion of the collected fees, or other incentive, to issuing merchants. The system also preferably provides information sharing on consumer transactions with merchants to facilitate consumer based incentive programs and the like. The system operates over conventional card processing infrastructure and utilizes the ACH network, or equivalent, to settle the transaction from a consumer checking account, or a merchant account in the case of a prepaid MIP card. Using the system, merchants may elect to qualify customers based on their own criterion. Embodiments are described for prepaid, fixed value, programmable, and refillable, forms of merchant-issued payment cards.
US07775425B1 System and method for approving a limit of check cashing over time
The invention involves a system and a method of approving a money limit of check cashing for a time period during which a check writer may cash checks up to the limit. The invention provides for an improvement of approving a money limit of check cashing in order to provide in advance a check cashing limit for at least one period of time. The invention includes storing historical check writing information of check writers, receiving identification information to access respective check writing information, processing the respective check writing information to determine a score for the check writer, classifying the check writer in a predetermined category, and determining the limit over the time period during which the check writer may cash checks up to the limit based on the category in which the check writer is classified. The invention further includes declining the check writer from cashing checks for the time period of the check writer is classified in one category, and approving the check writer to cash checks for the limit over the time period if the check writer is classified in another category.
US07775423B2 Portable electronic device and control method of portable electronic device
An IC card used as a portable electronic device includes a CPU which performs various processes by executing control programs, a memory which stores data files, and a communicating portion which communicates with an external device. When receiving a command from the external device via the communicating portion, the CPU of the IC card determines whether or not a process corresponding to the command for the data string specified by the command received from the external device can be performed based on one of access conditions set for the respective data strings in the files stored in the memory and performs a command process when it is determined in the above determining process that the command process for the data string specified by the command can be performed.
US07775421B2 Device for determining the sex (gender) of fish by measurement of morphological characteristics
This measuring tool permits the measurement of all critical morphological characteristics of fish, including the new ones identified by the author in May 2005*, thereby allowing for the determination of gender (sex). The device incorporates three measurement scales in metric and standard units and a calibrated gender bar. In combination, these permit the determination of sex of a fish at any size, any age and at any time of the year. There are several variations of the device, which include: 1. Placement of the measuring arm in relation to the measurement scales and its size (to accommodate larger or smaller fish). 2. Variations of the range for male and female fish on the gender bar. 3. Inclusion of log-log scales for statistical applications. Clary, S.L., 2005. Age and Morphological Differences between Male and Female Kokanee Salmon, Fish and Wildlife Service Conservation Library, US Dept. of the Interior, Washington, D.C.
US07775420B2 Apparatus and methods for reusing a mailer
In some embodiments, a reusable mailer capable of preventing the undesirable positioning during re-mailing thereof of at least one postal marking that may be made to the mailer during processing of the initial mailing thereof includes a removable initial seal flap disposed near the bottom of the mailer during the initial mailing thereof.
US07775414B2 Consumable insert and method of using the same
A consumable insert (10) formed of material particles (14) contained within a sheath (12). The particles may be a melting point depressant that has a concentration that is greater in a center region (16) of the insert than in the surface region (18) of the insert, thereby facilitating complete melting of the insert during a transient liquid phase bonding process. Alternatively, the particles may be a low-ductility material, such as a superalloy or an MCrAlY alloy, contained within a high ductility sheath material formed into a ribbon shape, thereby allowing the low-ductility material to be delivered in ribbon form during a coating process.
US07775408B2 Head cap for aerosol type atomizer
A head cap for an aerosol type atomizer is proposed in which a residual gas that remains in the container after the use of the aerosol type atomizer is ended are discharged easily and safely, and which is so structured that the aerosol type atomizer cannot be falsely operated while it is being used. It comprises a cap body mounted over a top of a container accommodating its contents, and a movable member for spray operation disposed inside of the cap body and having a fluid channel extending from a stem fitting part for fitting with a stem and leading to a spray port, the movable member for spray operation having a push button such that pushing down the push button to take a spray position sprays contents of the container from the spray port via the fluid channel, wherein the cap body has a side face elastically deformable so that when the push button of the movable member for spray operation is pushed down to take the spray position, pressing the side face of the cap body inwards locks the movable member for spray operation with the side face to hold the movable member for spray operation at the spray position.
US07775407B2 Contents extractor for jars
The contents extractor for jars is a device that is inserted into a food jar or household container. The extractor has a handle with an actuator that the operator squeezes; an elongated mechanized shaft that transmits movement from the actuator; and, a flexible material that retracts and transforms into a 360° disk shape to the inner surfaces of container. When the extractor is inserted into the jar and retracted, the operator pulls the entire device upward out of the container, thus removing the residue remaining. The extractor allows the consumer to use more of the product than would otherwise be possible, thereby saving money for the consumer and reducing resources used to make the product.
US07775405B2 Sprayer including pressure build-up discharge valve assembly with poppet valve having integrated spring
A sprayer includes a discharge valve assembly and includes an integrated poppet valve, spring and volume reducer. The spring includes more than omega-shaped form, each with relatively flat sides. The spring can have sides with portions sufficiently wide to substantially extend across the valve chamber to provide stability to the spring and prevent buckling. The flat sided omega-form construct is relatively easy to manufacture via molding and the ends of such construction provide suitable locations for integrated molding with the valve and the volume reducer.
US07775404B2 Pump for dispensing fluid products
A pump for dispensing fluid products includes a pump body, a pump chamber, at least one piston sliding inside the pump chamber for dispensing a fluid product, a dispensing orifice, and a shutter which interacts with the dispensing orifice and is embodied in such a way that it is movable and/or deformable between the closed position of the dispensing orifice and the open position thereof, the shutter being elastically driven to a closed position. The pump includes only one elastic element in the form of a spring for bringing at least one piston to a rest position after actuation and for driving the shutter to a closed position and the at least one piston is embodied in one piece with the shutter.
US07775398B2 Container and one-way valve assembly for storing and dispensing substances, and related method
A device for storing and dispensing a substance includes a storage chamber for the substance. The container includes a passageway in fluid communication with the storage chamber. The container includes a pierceable wall located on an opposite side of the passageway relative to the storage chamber. The device includes a one-way valve assembly including a piercing portion. At least one of the piercing portion and the pierceable wall is movable relative to the other between a first position wherein the pierceable portion is not piercing the pierceable wall, and a second position wherein the pierceable portion is piercing the pierceable wall allowing the flow of substance from the storage chamber. A removable member is disposed intermediate the valve and the container that prevents movement of at least one of the piercing portion and pierceable wall to the second position until the removable member is removed.
US07775395B2 Hinged lid for a food container
A hinged lid for a food container is provided. The lid structure includes a rim with an attached cover member. The lid structure also includes a mounting structure for mounting the lid structure to a food container. A tamper evidence latch is provided to releasably secure the rim in a closed configuration overlying the open end of the food container. The rim engages an upper rolled lip of the food container sidewall when the lid structure is in a closed configuration.
US07775388B2 Transport container for hazardous material
A container system and a method for transporting hazardous materials is disclosed. One embodiment of the container system includes a soft-sided outer shell and an inner frame. The outer shell is at least partially collapsible when unsupported. The outer shell may include a plurality of vertical walls integrally formed with a bottom and an open top. A lid may be adapted to be selectively secured to the vertical walls to close the outer shell. A fastener, such as a zipper, may be provided to secure the lid to the vertical walls. The inner frame has rigid walls and is adapted to support the outer shell when the inner frame is inserted inside the outer shell. The inner frame is at least partially collapsible. One embodiment of the method includes providing a soft-sided container that is at least partially collapsible when unsupported. Hazardous material is positioned into the container. The hazardous material supports the container from within and causes the container to assume an at least partially assembled configuration. In another embodiment of the method, a soft-sided outer shell that is at least partially collapsible when unsupported is provided. An inner frame is inserted into the outer shell. Hazardous material for transport, for example, is then positioned into the outer shell in an assembled configuration.
US07775387B2 Eyewear receptacle
An apparatus for collecting selection devices or eyewear is provided. The apparatus comprises a collection bin component and at least one receptacle panel component or receptacle lid component positioned adjacent to said collection bin component. The at least one receptacle panel covers at least a portion of the collection bin component. The apparatus further includes receptacle panel openings formed in at least one receptacle panel component. Openings are arranged in proportions configured to receive the selection devices and enable the collection bin component to collect said selection devices. Signage may be provided in association with the apparatus.
US07775386B2 Closure element
A cap comprises an opening indicating element provided with a flap arrangement suitable for interacting with an abutment arrangement associated with a neck of a container, said flap arrangement comprising at least one first portion and at least one second portion arranged alongside one another along a peripheral edge of said opening indicating element, a dimension of said at least one second portion measured transversely in relation to said peripheral edge being greater than a corresponding dimension of said at least one first portion measured transversely in relation to said peripheral edge; a container comprises a neck from which an abutment arrangement projects and a cap provided with a flap arrangement suitable for interacting with said abutment arrangement, said abutment arrangement comprising a plurality of distinct abutment elements and said flap arrangement comprising at least one portion suitable for being received in a gap defined between two abutment elements of said plurality of abutment elements.
US07775384B2 Electric motor driven traversing balancer hoist
A balancer hoist has an electric servomotor driving irreversible gearing in turn driving a hoist chain drive. A float mode and a manual mode are provided using two independent load sensors for sensing the load weight and force applied to a control grip. A traversing control is produced by a tractor carriage rolling on an overhead rail connected to a trolley also traveling on the rail and supported on upper hoist assembly. A load sensor interconnects the tractor carriage and upon hoist assembly to sense forces created by an operator pulling on the chain, which are used to control an electric motor on the tractor carriage driving a pinion gear engaged with a gear rack on the overhead rail to positively drive the carriage, trolley and upper hoist assembly along the rail. A stationary dual hoist system is also described in which two hoist assemblies are interconnected by a chain and sprockets to provide synchronized operation.
US07775383B2 Hoisting device with vertical motion compensation function
A hoisting device can be small-sized and energy can be saved. A hoisting device 10 according to the present invention has a hoist 30 and a control unit 32. The hoist 30 rotates a drum 12 having a wire 14 wound thereon by an oil pressure motor 42 rotatable in normal and reverse directions. To the oil pressure motor 42, operating oil is supplied from an oil pressure pump 44. The oil pressure pump 44 is a two-way discharge fixed capacity type, and rotated by a servomotor 46. An acceleration/displacement transducer 34 in the control unit 32 finds a moving direction and a moving speed of a wire hanging point in the vertical direction from an output signal of an acceleration sensor 24. The control unit 32 outputs a drive control signal of the servomotor 46 according to a paying-out speed or a rolling-up speed of the wire 14 offsetting the vertical motion of the wire hanging point caused by the heaving of a hull based on a speed instruction Vi of the paying-out or rolling-up speed of the wire, a detected signal of the acceleration sensor 24 and a detected signal of a wire speed sensor 26.
US07775380B2 Utensil holding retainer block for use with dish rack
A dish rack has a collector tray that has a compartment. A retaining block is seated in the compartment for holding knives or other utensils having sharp edges.
US07775377B2 Hair rack
A rack for holding and organizing hair extensions comprises a vertical stand upon which a cylindrical member is attached at the upper end. A plurality of rack arms radiate outwardly from the cylindrical member. Each rack harm comprises a plurality of parallel and spaced apart teeth, the teeth having a groove between them. The width of the groove is sized such that the individual strands of hair of the extension fit through the groove, but the protein polymer at the end of the extension is too large to fit through the groove, such that the extensions may be suspended from the rack arms. The rack arms may be angled to facilitate placing extensions within the grooves, and removing the extensions from the grooves.
US07775376B2 Filter for the separation of leukocytes from whole blood or blood preparations, method for production of said filter, corresponding device and use thereof
The invention relates to a filter for the separation of leukocytes from whole blood, comprising a hydrophobic support material and a polymeric coating material, whereby the surface of the filter has a critical surface wetting tension in the range 50 to 80 dyn/cm and the polymeric coating material may be obtained by polymerisation reaction of mixtures comprising hydrophobic and hydrophilic monomers. The invention further relates to a method for production of said filter and devices for the separation of leukocytes from whole blood and the use of the filter.
US07775375B2 Redundant ultrafiltration device
According to one aspect of the present invention, a dual stage filtration apparatus includes a cartridge having a first end and an opposing second end and a first filtration stage including a first bundle of first semi-permeable filtering elements and a second filtration stage including a second bundle of second semi-permeable filtering elements. The cartridge has a fluid inlet port for receiving raw unfiltered fluid into the first filtration stage and a fluid outlet port for discharging purified fluid after it has passed through the first and second filtration stages. The apparatus has an intrastage space that receives fluid that has been filtered in the first filtration stage prior to being filtered again in the second filtration stage, and the fluid inlet port is in fluid communication only with the first filtration stage, while the fluid outlet port is in fluid communication only with the second filtration stage. According to one aspect of the present invention, both ends of the first semi-permeable filtering elements are disposed and open at the first end and both ends of the second semi-permeable filtering elements are disposed and open at the second end.
US07775369B2 Separating device and sorting apparatus with two-dimensionals array of nozzles and method of sorting objects
Sorting apparatus comprising conveying means for conveying input objects into to the apparatus, extraction means for extracting from the conveying means input objects identified as belonging to a particular object-class processing means arranged to received input data corresponding at least to the portions across the conveying means of said identified input objects and to output control signals corresponding to the input data to the extraction means to effect extraction of said identified input objects, where the extraction means comprises an array of nozzles extending in a direction (z) across the conveying means, each of which is independently operable under control of the processing means to produce an air jet in a generally upward direction (y), and is arranged to activate sub-groups of nozzles corresponding to, and in response to, said control signals, characterised in that the conveying means has a partially open surface arranged to convey input objects over the array of nozzles, in that the array of nozzles is two-dimensional and also extends in a direction (x) substantially parallel to the direction of motion of the conveying means when the apparatus is in use; and in that the input data further corresponds to the outline shapes of said identified input objects.
US07775362B2 Substrate accommodating apparatus with loop-shaped binding member
A substrate accommodating apparatus (10) is constituted by stacking a plurality of accommodation bodies (20) on an upper surface of a rigid plate (15). Each accommodation body (20) is provided with a buffer (21) having elasticity and some conductivity and a load receptacle (22) having a frame-shaped body, while an upper surface of the buffer (21) is provided with a substrate protect layer (23) made of cellulose. The substrate accommodating apparatus (10) is arranged to enclose a substrate (S) therein by stacking the accommodation bodies (20) where the substrates are placed, and when the accommodation bodies (20) are stacked, each load receptacle (22) places the load of the respective accommodation body (20) on a periphery of the adjacent lower accommodation body (20) so that any load is not placed on the central portion of the lower accommodation body (20) where the substrate (S) is placed.
US07775356B2 Laptop computer case and stand
A laptop computer carrying case and stand includes a substantially planar bottom panel, two planar side walls parallel to one another and fixedly attached perpendicular to and adjacent opposing edges of the planar bottom panel, and the side walls have top edges distal the bottom panel. A substantially planar rear wall is fixedly attached perpendicular to the planar bottom panel and the two planar side walls. A top member having at least two substantially planar and rigid sections is hingedly connected adjacent a top edge of the rear wall panel and hingedly attached at an opposing edge to a second of the rigid sections. A top member positioning means is included for removably engaging the sections of said top member in at least one inverted V pattern for the purpose of supporting a laptop computer an angle to a user.
US07775354B2 Waterproof cover for personal music player
A waterproof enclosure for use with personal music players has a case formed of a flexible material and creates an interior sized to receive a personal music player. The case in one example can have a first part and a second part that together define the interior The case can be opened to expose the interior and can be closed along a joint. A watertight seal can be provided along the joint between the first and second parts when closed. In one example, a tether can connect the first and second parts of the case. In one example, the tether can be configured to create an attachment loop with the case in the closed position. The enclosure can also have a sound emitting device extending from the case. In one example, the sound emitting device can include a jack adapter integrally formed with the case.
US07775352B2 Spindle packaging
A spindle packaging tray for holding a plurality of discs, the tray including: a depression designed to hold the plurality of discs, the depression including an inner wall that is at least partially ridged to provide stability for the plurality of discs to stay snug inside the depression; a spindle formed inside the depression, the spindle designed to help keep the plurality of discs in place; and a plurality of holes designed to allow consumers to easily insert or remove the plurality of discs to and from the depression. Keywords include spindle, ridged inner wall, and tray.
US07775350B2 Systems and methods for improved bathroom tissue
A bathroom tissue including a tissue roll core substantially cylindrical in shape. The tissue roll core includes a void for receiving a rod of the standard sized bathroom tissue roll dispenser. The tissue roll core may be substantially impermeable to moisture and include an aperture. A dry tissue roll is wound about the tissue roll core. An opening in the wound dry tissue roll extends to the aperture. A wet tissue roll is housed within the tissue roll core, and may be accessed through the opening and aperture. The wet tissue roll may rotate independently of the dry tissue roll. The wet tissue roll may be pre-moistened with any suitable solution including at least one of a saline solution, alcohol, amphoteric surfactants, humectants, thickeners and preservatives. The bathroom tissue roll includes a weight, or the void is off-center, for orientating the bathroom tissue roll such that the opening is accessible. Both wet and dry tissue roll may be perforated, and may include at least one of lotions, medications, perfume and coloring.
US07775345B2 Conveyor and belt with clutch-driven flights
A belt conveyor having clutch-driven flights for extremely low-torque operation. The flights have pivot members that rotate about an axis over a limited range of angles. A clutch mechanism includes a spring pushing a clutch wheel against a pivot member. The clutch wheel is arranged to rotate as the conveyor belt advances. Frictional contact between the rotating wheel and the pivot member imparts a moment on the flight to raise it to an extended position. When the flight is encumbered even by a light load, the low-torque mechanism automatically slips to prevent the flight from rising to the extended position.
US07775342B2 Scrapers for link chains of scraper chain conveyors and scraper-securing element thereof
The invention relates to scrapers for link chains of in particular double center scraper chain conveyors, comprising a one-part scraper body with a head web connecting two lateral scraper wings and at least one insertion pocket for insertion of a horizontal chain link of the link chain and securing scraper by means of a detachable scraper-securing element. In order to improve the entrainment of scrapers connected to the horizontal chain links and to be able to use the scrapers even with novel link chains, grooves extend in insides of scraper wings and outsides of an intermediate web over the height of limb beds up to head web and form receivers for entrainment projections on the outer surfaces of limbs of horizontal chain links. The invention also relates to scraper-securing element.
US07775336B2 Friction engagement device
Lubricating oil supply holes are drilled into a first member that is fitted to a plurality of first annular plates by a spline. Of splines to which each lubricating oil supply hole corresponds, lubricating oil grooves provided in the plurality of first annular plates do not overlap the splines on at least one of the front and rear surfaces of the first annular plates, and therefore lubricating oil flowing out of the lubricating oil supply holes is dispersed in a circumferential direction and flows from the inner periphery to the outer periphery of the first annular plates, rather than gathering in each lubricating oil groove and flowing in an outer peripheral direction. As a result, a force generated by an axial lubricating oil flow, which acts in a direction for causing the second annular plates to contact friction materials on the first annular plates, is suppressed, leading to a reduction in drag torque.
US07775334B2 Rotatable handle and method for attaching a first carry bag system to a second carry bag system, and carry bag having same
A system for releasably attaching an article of luggage such as a first carry bag, with or without a pair of upright support members, to a second carry bag system or wheeled luggage cart having at least a pair of upright stationary support members is disclosed in which a handle is resiliently attached to the first carry bag, and a device is provided for resiliently attaching the handle to the first carry bag in a manner to permit rotation of the handle between a first storage position between a pair of upright support members of the second carry bag system and a second interference position with the upright support members of the second carry bag system to thereby attach the first carry bag to the upright support members of the second carry bag system. The handle is preferably in the form of a zippered pouch having a planar plate attached thereto for engagement with the upright support members.
US07775332B2 Bi-metal disc brake rotor and method of manufacturing
The invention provides a method for manufacturing a friction damped disc brake rotor, including the steps of: (A) positioning at least one insert into a mold, wherein the insert has a body with tabs extending therefrom to hold the insert in a desired position within the mold; and (B) casting a rotor cheek of the disc brake rotor in the mold around the insert such that a portion of each tab is bonded with the rotor cheek and the body is substantially non-bonded with the rotor cheek so that the body provides a proper interfacial boundary with the cheek for damping while the bonding of the tabs with the rotor cheek prevents corrosion-causing exterior elements from reaching the interfacial boundary.
US07775323B2 Silencer with fin outlet
A motor chain saw includes a housing with a housing wall, which has an opening for exhaust gases and a hood extending outside the housing through the opening, with a hood opening pointing to one side. Exhaust gases flowing from an interior of the housing in an exhaust jet (S) are guided to the outside through the opening. A fin is arranged on the opening and provides a silencer for exhaust gases directed towards a flow direction of the exhaust jet (S) escaping from the hood.
US07775319B2 Diaphragm for speaker and manufacturing method therefor
A diaphragm for use in a speaker is manufactured using a plurality of thin wooden boards having flat rectangular shapes. The thin wooden boards are impregnated with a resin; then, a plurality of cutouts, which are elongated along wooden fiber directions or which are elongated in directions crossing wooden fiber directions, are formed in the thin wooden boards. Instead of the cutouts, it is possible to form a plurality of folded portions elongated in directions crossing wooden fiber directions. The thin wooden boards are integrally laminated together in such a way that the wooden fiber directions thereof mutually cross with a prescribed angle therebetween. The thin wooden boards integrally laminated together are subjected to thermal pressing so as to form a wooden vibrator serving as the diaphragm. Thus, it is possible to easily produce the diaphragm having a high strength and superior acoustic characteristics without causing defects.
US07775317B1 Multi-directional operator controls for an industrial vehicle
A control assembly for an industrial vehicle is herein disclosed as including a first control arm oriented in a substantially upright position, and a second control arm extending from the first control arm in a reclined position. The first control arm is operable to control a speed of the vehicle from a first operator position, and the second control arm operable to control the speed of the vehicle from a second operator position oriented opposite the first operator position.
US07775316B2 Colliding object determination device and collision information detector for vehicle
A colliding object determination device for a vehicle having a bumper reinforcement member (12) includes a sensor (20) and a determination circuit (40). The sensor (20) is located in a front portion of a vehicle for measuring a collision state quantity correlating with a collision load generated in a collision of a colliding body with the vehicle. The determination circuit (40) determines whether the colliding body is a pedestrian based on the measured collision state quantity. The sensor (20) is located on an upper half region of a front end face of the bumper reinforcement member (12). Thus, accuracy of discriminating the pedestrian from other objects can be improved.
US07775313B1 Integral tunnel heat exchanger for a snowmobile
A snowmobile includes a frame, a motor supported by the frame, an endless belt assembly supported by the frame, and a tunnel coupled to the frame and extending above the endless belt assembly. The tunnel includes an item attachment member accessible by a user and extending along a surface of the tunnel. The item attachment member is configured to couple to a fastener to mount an item on the tunnel.
US07775306B1 Motorized wheelbarrow and associated method
A motorized wheel barrow includes a storage pan, a handle assembly, an electrical control assembly, and a wheel assembly with an axle transversely spanning across a width of the storage pan and coupled to the handle assembly while remaining spaced from the storage pan. The device further includes a mechanism for automatically generating a torque at the wheel assembly to thereby selectively propel the motorized wheel barrow along first and second opposed directions based upon first and second user inputs respectively.
US07775304B2 Apparatus and method for driving casing or conductor pipe
Apparatus for driving an open-ended conductor pipe into the ground. The apparatus includes, in combination, an open-ended conductor pipe capable of being driven into the ground, a drill string, a device for pumping fluid through the drill string, an arrangement for supporting the conductor pipe on the drill string, and a reciprocable impact driver supportable by the drill string within the conductor pipe. The apparatus further includes a device for reciprocating the reciprocable impact driver using fluid pumped through the drill string, an anvil capable of transferring the percussive force of the reciprocable impact driver to the conductor pipe, and jets for jetting fluid into the lower portion of the conductor pipe.
US07775298B2 Drilling assemblies and methods of drilling
Drilling assemblies and methods of drilling are disclosed. In one implementation, a drilling assembly includes a rotary drive apparatus configured to rotate a string of drill pipe having a cutting head at a drilling end thereof. A longitudinally elongated torque transfer tube apparatus is mounted to and extends downwardly from the rotary drive apparatus and is configured to longitudinally receive the string of drill pipe rotatably there-through. The torque transfer tube apparatus is isolated from rotation relative to the rotary drive apparatus and the string of drill pipe during drilling with the drilling assembly. A torque receiving structure is provided, and through which the torque transfer tube apparatus is upwardly and downwardly slidably received. The torque transfer tube apparatus and the torque receiving structure are isolated from rotation relative one another and the string of drill pipe during drilling with the drilling assembly.
US07775297B2 Multiple input scaling autodriller
A wellbore drilling system is disclosed herein, in which the system includes a weight on bit controller configured to generate a normalized weight on bit output, a drilling torque controller configured to generate a normalized toque on bit output, and a differential pressure controller configured to generate a normalized differential pressure output. The system further includes a rate of penetration controller that is configured to multiply a rate of penetration setpoint with the normalized weight on bit output, the normalized torque on pit output, and the normalized differential pressure output to generate a rate of penetration output.
US07775294B2 Percussion toggle device of a percussion driller
This invention discloses a percussion toggle device of a percussion driller. It includes bottom ratchet wheel that joggles the top ratchet wheel fixed in the output main shaft of the percussion driller, the locking ring used to lock the rotating direction of bottom ratchet wheel, the ejector rod to eject the locking ring, the slide rod that works with ejector rod to make it rise or fall, the percussion button connecting the slide rod, the positioning device to fixate the position of slide rod, and the reset device that works with the positioning device to remove the position limitation by the positioning device. This invention locks the rotating direction of bottom ratchet wheel through the independent percussion button, slide rod and ejector rod. In this way, the percussion toggle and the adjustment of torque force of the percussion driller can be separated. When using the percussion button, the user can toggle their operation between percussion and torque force. The user can do the toggle operation even when the motor is working. It is convenient, safe and effective.
US07775293B2 Furrow closer
A furrow closer apparatus has a bracket extending down from an upper forward portion of an implement shank. Right and left spring arms with soil moving elements at lower ends thereof are attached at top ends thereof to right and left coil springs connected by a cross member. A spring tube extends through the coil springs and through the bracket aperture to attach the spring arms such that a spring arm extends rearward and downward on each side of a shank location. Clips are attached to the spring tube on each side of the bracket aperture and define clip apertures. The cross member extends through the clip apertures, and the clip apertures are larger than the cross member such that the cross member is movable in the clip apertures. Rotatable discs with a twine wrap inhibiting ring can provide the soil moving elements.
US07775292B1 CO2 fire suppression monitoring apparatus and method
A monitor apparatus and method for monitoring, verifying, and prompting an existing CO2 type fire suppression system in a room or building protected by the suppression system. In its most preferred form the monitor apparatus is a unit contained in a cabinet or housing placed in the protected room, with only a signal connection to the suppression system. The monitor apparatus has a suppressant gas concentration sensor enabled by a discharge signal received from the suppression system, and a datalogger to keep a verifiable record of the suppression system's discharge performance. The monitor unit sends a continue-discharge signal back to the suppression system independently of the continuity of the suppression system's discharge signal if a desired gas concentration level in the room is not reached or held per the suppression system's own requirements.
US07775290B2 Apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming a tubular member
An apparatus for radially expanding and plastically deforming a tubular member.
US07775289B2 Equipment for installing a spoolable connector in coiled tubing
A technique facilitates joining of coiled tubing sections. A framework has one or more movable stands with features designed to grip and manipulate an end of a coiled tubing section. The ability to hold and selectively move an end of a coiled tubing section or the ends of both coiled tubing sections enables an operator to easily prepare the coiled tubing ends and to couple the coiled tubing ends with a coiled tubing connector.
US07775283B2 Valve for equalizer sand screens
A series of screens with restrictors to equalize flow through base pipe perforations downstream or upstream of each restrictor features a valve member in the openings so that the screens are closed to flow for run in. Pressure can be developed within the base pipe for operation of downhole equipment below the screens such as a mud motor or in the screen liner such as a packer with no need for an internal string or wash pipe. The openings can be opened selectively when the associated equipment connected to the base pipes has been operated. The valve member can be actuated to open in a variety of ways such as applied pressure, temperature or a change in well fluid condition.
US07775282B2 Methods of limiting leak off and damage in hydraulic fractures
Methods for treating a formation penetrated by a wellbore which improves fluid loss control during treatment. In some aspects, the treatments include preparing an aqueous fluid including one or more water inert polymers and an optional viscosifier, injecting the aqueous fluid into the wellbore at a pressure equal to or greater than the formation's fracture initiation pressure, and thereafter injecting into the wellbore a proppant laden fluid at a pressure equal to or greater than the formation's fracture initiation pressure. The water inert polymer may be a polymer such as an emulsion polymer or a latex polymer. Some methods of the invention use a fluid which may have a normalized leak off coefficient (Cw/sqrt(K)) equal to or less than about 0.0022, 0.0014, or 0.0010. A conventional fluid loss additive may or may not be used in conjunction with the treatment fluid and/or the proppant laden fluid. The water inert polymer may or may not substantially enter formation pores. In another aspect, methods for reducing matrix damage to a formation during a treatment operation include preparing an aqueous treatment fluid formed of at least one water inert polymer, and injecting the fluid at a pressure equal or greater than the formation's fracture initiation pressure.
US07775280B2 Jars for wellbore operations
An example of an apparatus for jarring a wellbore tool from an obstruction includes four sub-assemblies in communication with three springs such that the springs may be compressed forcing the subassemblies to become adjacent to one another. When the springs are actuated, the sub-assembly units spring apart from one another force dislodging the lower most sub-assembly component from the obstruction.
US07775276B2 Method and apparatus for downhole sampling
An embodiment includes an apparatus that includes a sample carrier adapted to receive a sample and return it to the surface. An embodiment includes a formation tester adapted to load the sample carrier. An embodiment includes a retriever to remove the carrier from the drilling mud. The retriever also includes a device for removing the sample from the carrier.
US07775275B2 Providing a string having an electric pump and an inductive coupler
A system for use in a well includes a string for placement in the well, where the string including an electric pump and a first inductive coupler portion. A completion section is deployed in a zone of the well to be developed, where the completion section includes a second inductive coupler portion for inductive coupling to the first inductive coupler portion. An electrical device is electrically connected to the second inductive coupler portion.
US07775274B2 Method for detecting fluid leakage from a subterranean formation
A method for the detection of a carbon dioxide leak from a plugged well extending from a surface of the earth to penetrate a subterranean formation which contains carbon dioxide by logging a collection chamber positioned in the plugged well.
US07775272B2 Passive centralizer
A passive centralizer for stably centering within a well. The centralizer may be of a retracted profile for advancement within the well and deployable for centralization upon reaching an operation site. Deployment may be achieved in an automated manner without the requirement of operator interaction therefor. Furthermore, the centralizer may be truly passive in that energy for deployment may be stored entirely within the passive centralizer prior to its insertion within the well. The passive centralizer may also be compressed following centralization by any number of downhole restrictions. In this manner the passive centralizer may also be readily withdrawn from the well.
US07775271B2 Device and system for well completion and control and method for completing and controlling a well
An injection fluid distribution configuration including a tubular having a plurality of openings therein and a plurality of beaded matrixes disposed within the openings. At least one of the beaded matrixes having an injection fluid permeability different than an injection fluid permeability of at least one other of the plurality of beaded matrixes. A method for distributing an injection fluid in a wellbore. A method for making an injection fluid distribution apparatus for distributing an injection fluid in a wellbore.
US07775270B1 Spider with distributed gripping dies
The spider has a body with a slip bowl of extended vertical length to enable gripping diameters having a gripping range of at least twenty percent greater than the minimum diameter to be gripped. A plurality of slips are distributed about the slip bowl surface, each slip carrying a plurality of dies vertically distributed on and affixed on the slip. Each die has a vee shaped surface, each face of the vee shaped surface provided with the equivalent of teeth to engage the outer surface of pipe to be gripped. The vee shaped dies, collectively, provide pipe contact lines about equally spaced about the outer periphery of gripped pipe.
US07775269B2 Communication tool for accessing a non annular hydraulic chamber of a subsurface safety valve
A communication tool (100) includes a housing (102) having recesses (110) and a set of axial locating elements (112) radially extendable through the recesses (110) and engageably positionable within a profile of a tubing retrievable safety valve (50). An anti rotation device (140) is radially outwardly extendable relative to the housing (112). The anti rotation device (140) operably engages the tubing retrievable safety valve (50) to substantially prevent relative rotation between at least a portion of the communication tool (100) and the tubing retrievable safety valve (50). A cutting tool (148) is radially outwardly extendable relative to the housing (102). The cutting tool (148) is operable to create a fluid passageway (150) between a non annular hydraulic chamber (60) and an interior the tubing retrievable safety valve (50).
US07775266B2 Heat exchanger, especially for an intercooler
A heat exchanger, especially an intercooler for a motor vehicle. The heat exchanger comprises a box, a chamber in which a flowing medium is distributed and/or accumulated, a bundle of tubes, tubes, a tube base, openings, a housing lid, two lateral walls, a stabilizing element, a first receiving element, a first transmission element, a second receiving element, a second transmission element, a force transducing element and a flow guide surface.
US07775265B2 Side tank design
A cooling system for a reciprocating engine includes a main cooling device and a side tank. The main cooling device includes at least one heat dissipation tube that contains an internal fluid for transporting excess heat developed by a reciprocating engine. The side tank is attached to the main cooling device and includes a plurality of exterior fins for dissipating heat to cool airflow. The exterior fins form an adjustable mounting location.
US07775264B2 Plate heat exchanger
A plate heat exchanger comprising plates (21, 31) interconnected by soldering and adapted to exchange heat between a high and a low temperature fluid may be designed to improve the cooling of the parts of the plates located near inlets (3) for the high temperature fluid by providing separate fluid channels (23, 26) in pairs of plates (21, 31) guiding low temperature fluid, said separate channels (23, 26) at least partly surrounding said inlets (3) for the high temperature fluid.
US07775261B2 Capillary condenser/evaporator
A heat transfer device is disclosed for transferring heat to or from a fluid that is undergoing a phase change. The heat transfer device includes a liquid-vapor manifold in fluid communication with a capillary structure thermally connected to a heat transfer interface, all of which are disposed in a housing to contain the vapor. The liquid-vapor manifold transports liquid in a first direction and conducts vapor in a second, opposite direction. The manifold provides a distributed supply of fluid (vapor or liquid) over the surface of the capillary structure. In one embodiment, the manifold has a fractal structure including one or more layers, each layer having one or more conduits for transporting liquid and one or more openings for conducting vapor. Adjacent layers have an increasing number of openings with decreasing area, and an increasing number of conduits with decreasing cross-sectional area, moving in a direction toward the capillary structure.
US07775260B2 Expansion tank with alarm system
An expansion tank comprising a bladder style water storage tank and method of use. The expansion tank includes an alarm module to sense a flooded tank condition. The system also has the ability to sense a bladder over-extended condition. The expansion tank use includes a sonic alarm and/or a visual alarm and is used in combination with a boiler or related hot water system. Method steps using the described design are also included. The hydro-pneumatic expansion tank has important utility in HVAC, boiler and potable water systems.
US07775257B2 Casting method and apparatus
The invention concerns a casting apparatus which includes a crucible support and induction heating means (14, 16, 18) arranged to receive and support a crucible (10) containing material which is to be melted and poured from an outlet (38). The outlet is positioned on a vertical axis (40). The support and induction heating means also operates to apply induction heating to the material to melt it in the crucible. There is also a translation mechanism which tilts the crucible while the crucible is still supported and while heat is continuously applied to it. This mechanism operates in such a way that during tilting, the outlet of the crucible is maintained on the vertical axis so that the molten material pours from the outlet on the vertical axis. In the embodiments described, the crucible is simultaneously moved vertically towards the mould into which the melt pours.
US07775253B1 Security shutters
A security shutter having two units. Each unit has two panels hingedly connected to one another with one panel permanently affixed to a structure near one side of an opening. When closed, the panels of each unit cover the opening, and a securing mechanism is used to secure their positions. Further, each panel includes a plurality of spaced apart slats aligned in an alternating pattern relative to the plurality of slats on the adjacent panel such that, when the shutter is not in use and one panel overlays the other against the structure, the shutter unit appears as a traditional panel without spacing between slats.
US07775249B2 Tire stand
A method and apparatus for centering a tire on a wheel for concentrically mounting the tire on the wheel. The tire and wheel assembly are placed on an arched member which gravitationally centers assembly on the arched member. Further, the arched member is also a rest for the tire sidewall to seal the bead of the tire on the wheel. A tire stand for handling, positioning and assisting in seating a bead is also provided. The tire stand also has an arched member to center the tire on the wheel. Two forks cradle a vertically positioned tire to initially position the tire and wheel assembly over the arched member. The tire stand is configured to be tilted to a horizontal position with the tire and wheel assembly inserted, thereby centering the assembly on the arched member. A beading device can then be activated to the concentric tire and wheel assembly.
US07775247B2 Steel cord for reinforcement of off-the-road tires
A steel cord, formed of a plurality of steel filaments, has a construction of N×(7×2) wherein N=1 to 7 and within the circumference of the cross-sectional area, not more than 60% of the cord area is comprised of the steel filaments. The steel cord has an elongation at break of at least 3%.
US07775241B2 Slide valve control device and a drive device for use with it
A valve control device. In some embodiments, the valve control device includes a housing with bore sections and a slide movable relative to the bore sections, first and second flow holes for connection of a feed line from a fluid pressure hose with one actuator, or of the actuator to a return line, wherein in each case one of the connections is made and the other is interrupted, and first and second valve elements assigned to the flow holes, wherein each valve element has a closed position and a connecting position. In the connection position of the first flow hole, the second valve element is in the closed position and pressed onto a valve seat at a bore section. In the connecting position of the second flow hole, the first valve element is in the closed position and pressed onto a valve seat at a bore section.
US07775238B2 Vacuum vessel wall element with a line leadthrough
A vacuum vessel wall element is presented and described with a fixed flange element, with a separable flange element and with a line running from the inside of the vacuum vessel to the outside, the separable flange element being separably connected to the fixed flange element, with the line being held in the separable flange element and with an annular sealing area being provided between the fixed flange element and the separable flange element. The object of providing a vacuum vessel wall element with at least one line running from the inside of the vacuum vessel to the outside, where the separable flange element is connected to the fixed flange element vacuum-tight in such a way that during installation it is not necessary to lay the part of the line that is later in the vacuum through an opening provided in the fixed flange element is achieved in that the separable flange element is arranged on the side of the wall element facing the inside of the vacuum vessel and in that a bolt connection is provided inside the annular sealing area.
US07775236B2 Method and apparatus for controlling gas flow to a processing chamber
A method and apparatus for delivering gases to a semiconductor processing system are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus for delivering gases to a semiconductor processing system includes a plurality of gas input and output lines having inlet and outlet ports. Connecting lines couple respective pairs of the gas input and gas output lines. Connecting valves are arranged to control flow through the respective connecting lines. Mass gas flow controllers are arranged to control flow into respective inlet ports. In another embodiment, a method includes providing a manifold having at least a plurality of inlet that may be selectively coupled to at least one of a plurality of outlets, flowing one or more gases through the manifold to a vacuum environment by-passing the processing chamber prior to processing or to a calibration circuit, and flowing the one or more gases into the processing chamber during substrate processing.
US07775235B2 Apparatus and methods for containing a fuel pressure regulator
An apparatus includes a first portion and a second portion. The first portion includes a mounting surface configured to support a mounting portion of a pressure regulator. The first portion defines a cavity configured to receive at least a portion of the pressure regulator, and an opening configured to provide fluid communication between the cavity and an area outside of the first portion. The second portion includes a mounting surface configured to support the mounting portion of the pressure regulator. The second portion defines a cavity and an opening configured to provide fluid communication between the cavity of the second portion and an area outside of the second portion. The second portion is configured to be coupled to the first portion to form a fluid-tight seal.
US07775231B2 Retrofitting a fire hydrant with a replacement hydrant body containing a secondary valve
The present invention relates to methods and devices for retrofitting fire hydrants with additional structure for reducing the potential that those with ill intent can foul municipal water supplies by introducing toxins or other materials into fire hydrants. Various embodiments include a replacement hydrant body having an enlarged diameter portion that can be installed to replace an existing hydrant body. The replacement hydrant body can include a secondary valve comprising a seat, biasing structure, and a restriction member to close off portions of the hydrant otherwise available for receipt of toxic or other materials when the fire hydrant nozzle cap is unscrewed and open.
US07775230B2 Collapsible hunting blind
A collapsible hunting blind includes a blind awning and a collapsible frame to fold the blind awning between a folded position and a setup position. The blind awning comprises two sidewalls, a front wall, a rear wall, and a top wall. The collapsible frame includes a retention frame and two tensional loops. The retention frame is detachably coupling between the sidewalls to retain a distance therebetween, wherein when the retention frame is released from the sidewalls, the sidewalls are adapted to overlap with each other. The two tensional loops are provided at the sidewalls respectively for providing a tensional force thereat at the setup position to stretch out the sidewalls in a tensional manner, wherein when each of the tensional loops is twist-folded to reduce the tensional force at the respective sidewall, the overlapped sidewalls are adapted to twist-fold into a compact structure at the folded position.
US07775229B2 Canopy with one or more side awnings
The technology of the present application provides a collapsible canopy shelter having one or more side awnings that are pivotally coupled to the canopy frame. The canopy shelter for this has reinforced eaves for additional structural integrity, as well as at least one collapsible ventilation flap in the canopy cover that is capable of moving between a closed position and an open position to ventilate air from beneath the canopy cover as desired. Further, the collapsible canopy shelter comprises a canopy frame with a robust, spring-loaded pull latch, allowing the user to quickly and easily assemble and, collapse the shelter without risking injury.
US07775225B2 Washing and storing systems for machinery
A device for washing and storing machinery is provided. This device includes a storage apparatus and a washing apparatus formed integrally with the storage apparatus. The storage apparatus further includes: a housing defining an internal chamber therein; a base attached to the bottom portion of the housing, wherein the base further includes at least one aperture formed therein; a debris tray attached to the base, wherein a portion of the tray is positionable beneath the aperture formed in the base; and a door for gaining access to the internal chamber, wherein the door further includes a floating upper portion and a lower portion connected to the base. The washing apparatus further includes: a plurality of directional sprayers, wherein the plurality of directional sprayers are located within the housing and the base; and plumbing for connecting the plurality of sprayers to one another and to a source of pressurized fluid.
US07775220B2 Parts washer
A parts washer having a cleaning chamber and a receptacle into which parts to be cleaned are placed. The receptacle is rotatably mounted within the cleaning chamber and is rotated by a drive device. One or more spray manifolds are provided, each having a plurality of spray jets arranged to spray cleaning fluid onto the parts in the receptacle. The spray manifolds are moveably mounted within the cleaning chamber and are coupled to the drive device such that the drive device causes reciprocating motion of the spray manifolds.
US07775217B2 Methods and apparatus for manufacturing cigarettes
Cigarettes are manufactured using modified automated cigarette making apparatus. Those cigarettes possess smokable rods having paper wrapping materials having additive materials applied thereto as patterns. The additive material can be applied as a coating formulation in an off-line manner to a continuous paper sheet web that is later used for cigarette manufacture. The additive material can be applied as a coating formulation in an on-line manner to continuous paper web moving through an operating cigarette making machine. The coating formulation is applied to the paper web using roll applicator techniques, ink jet printing techniques or electrostatic precipitation techniques. Liquid coating formulation are curable, and are virtually absent of solvent or liquid carrier. Radiation, such as ultraviolet or electron beam radiation, is used to solidify and fix polymerizable liquid components of the coating formulation that have been applied to the paper web. Heating and subsequent cooling of the coating formulation used to fix solid components of the coating formulation that have been applied to the paper web. Registration techniques are used to ensure proper positioning of the additive material on the smokable rods so manufactured, and to ensure proper quality of those cigarettes.
US07775216B2 Carbonaceous heat source composition for non-combustion-type smoking article
A carbonaceous heat source composition for a non-combustion-type smoking article contains calcium carbonate in an amount of 30 to 55% by weight.
US07775214B1 Sporting prophylaxis
An interocclusal sports prophylaxis includes a core having an arch shaped occlusal plate with upwardly extending buccal and lingual walls. A labial force dispersal shield and molar framing braces extend downwardly from the plate at incisor and lingual zones of the plate. The occlusal plate is thickened at the molar and incisor zones so that breathing spaces are provided between mandibular occlusal surfaces not registered with the zones and a mandibular face of the plate. A shock absorption dentition encasement is molded over the upper surface of the core and also covers the molar and incisor zones. The prophylaxis is heated in water, seated in the mouth and then biting pressure is applied to embed the maxillary dentition in the encasement and the lower incisor and molar occlusal surfaces in the encasement covering the zones.
US07775211B2 Snoring treatment and associated apparatus, system and method
The disclosed apparatus, systems and methods are effective in treating snoring behavior. Exemplary embodiments of the disclosed treatment apparatus include a mouthpiece, a first chamber in communication with the mouthpiece, and a displaceable member mounted with respect to the first chamber for applying a resistive force as gas is withdrawn from the first chamber. A second, substantially airtight chamber is generally defined on the opposite side of the displaceable member. The evacuation force required to deflect, deform or otherwise is increased due to the force required to displace the displaceable member positioned within the disclosed treatment apparatus. In exemplary embodiments of the disclosed apparatus, the displaceable member may take the form of a flexible membrane, piston or diaphragm that is mounted with respect to the inner wall of the first chamber or the second chamber. Use of the treatment apparatus is effective in reducing and/or eliminating snoring behavior for extended periods.
US07775208B2 Device for supplying breathing gas, particularly for mouthpiece of a diver
Device for supplying breathing gas, particularly for a mouthpiece of a diver, including a casing incorporating, between an inlet orifice for the supply gas and an orifice or the outlet of the gas for the purpose of breathing: a pressure-reducing valve system having a member for controlling the force necessary to open the valve, a member for controlling the flow rate of the gas let into the outlet orifice, the supply device also including a manually actuatable control element capable of interacting with the control member in order to adjust the force necessary to open the valve, characterized in that the control element is capable of interacting also with the member for controlling the flow rate of gas in order to ensure both the adjustment of the force for opening the valve and the adjustment of the flow rate of outlet gas.
US07775207B2 Reliability-enhanced apparatus operation for re-breathing and methods of effecting same
An apparatus and method for affording a re-breathing capability to a breathing circuit. The apparatus includes a valve that permits air flow through or re-breathing in the breathing circuit. A CO2 sensor and an air flow sensor detects CO2 a rate of air flow in the breathing circuit, respectively. A processor computes a parameter based on the CO2 waveform feature and a volumetric CO2 waveform feature based on signals from the air flow sensor and/or the CO2 sensor. An alarm is triggered when the parameter deviates from a selected magnitude. In a further embodiment, at least one parameter associated with an energy source for actuating the valve is monitored. Deviation of the value from at least one selected value of the at least one parameter is corrected.
US07775206B2 Neonate suction catheter assembly
A suction catheter assembly, particularly adapted for neonatal use includes a distal manifold body including a rotatable connector for connection to an endotracheal tube, a ventilating port member and an ancillary catheter receiving port member. The manifold body is rotatably joined to a catheter tube seal housing. The seal housing includes an irrigation port member. A catheter tube wiper seal and a filter member are disposed in the seal housing which is joined to a suction control valve assembly by an elongated flexible sheath defining an enclosed space through which the catheter tube extends between the valve assembly and the manifold. A resilient closure member actuator and slide lock member are engageable with a closure member of the valve assembly.
US07775204B2 Warming shoe pad
A device for warming a shoe is disclosed. An insole has a top cavity. A releasable shoe pad includes a top padding member and a recess between forward and rearward bottom portions. The device includes a thin metal member formed on the pad and including an intermediate conductive member, a forward conductive section extended from the conductive member, and a rearward conductive section extended from the conductive member, and a heater unit fastened in a space defined by the recess. The heater unit includes a fuel chamber, a combustion chamber filled with zirconia fibers, and a channel interconnected the fuel and the combustion chambers, the channel including fibers and a wick having one end immersed in the fuel chamber and the other end connected to the fibers.
US07775196B2 Fuel supply apparatus
A fuel supply apparatus that supplies fuel to an internal combustion engine by injecting liquid fuel from a fuel injection valve into a suction port is configured by a microbubble generator that generates microbubbles and an ultrasonic wave generator that generates an ultrasonic wave depending on a gas in the microbubbles generated by the microbubble generator. In the fuel supply apparatus, the generated microbubbles are mixed into the liquid fuel that is supplied to the fuel injection valve, and the liquid fuel in which the microbubbles are mixed is irradiated with the ultrasonic wave depending on the driving state of the internal combustion engine. When the liquid fuel in which the microbubbles are mixed is irradiated with the ultrasonic wave, a temperature of the liquid fuel is raised instantaneously due to contraction of the microbubbles.
US07775192B2 Radial piston pump for fuel injection system having improved high-pressure resistance
A radial piston pump has a pump housing containing pump elements and whose high-pressure conduits extending in the pump housing are embodied so as to significantly increase the permissible operating pressures.
US07775191B2 Constant-speed multi-pressure fuel injection system for improved dynamic range in internal combustion engine
A fuel injection system operates under a predetermined substantially constant pump speed and creates multi-pressure levels by diverting the fuel flow. Fuel pressure can be switched from one steady pressure level to another level on-demand instantly. This superimposes and overlaps typical fuel injection events in the linear operating ranges under different pressure levels, significantly increasing the fuel injection dynamic range. The dynamic range is further increased when another predetermined constant pump speed is assigned. Thus, the system saves fuel and reduces exhaust emission in city driving when gas pedal is released including idle. The same system can instantly deliver additional fuel on-demand for extra power beyond engine rating producing a sport-car-like performance.
US07775189B2 Fuel system with drain unit
A fuel system for a carburetor that supports operation of an engine includes a body with a bore, a fuel source communicated with the bore and from which fuel is supplied to the bore for delivery to the engine, a drain unit and a control. The drain unit is communicated with the fuel source to selectively receive fuel from the fuel source and has a fuel chamber and an actuator operable to vary the volume of the fuel chamber. The control is communicated with the actuator to permit fuel flow from the fuel source to the fuel chamber when the engine is shut down and to cause fuel to flow from the fuel chamber to the fuel source prior to starting the engine.
US07775183B2 Electronic voltage remover
The present invention removes voltage that accumulates over a period of time in an automotive engine cooling system. This accumulation of voltage is provided a path to travel inside the engine and cooling system by the cooling liquid used to cool the vehicles engine. This accumulation of voltage looks for a likable metal to bond with and the constant colliding of the voltage trying to bond with the metal creates damage know as electrolytic metal erosion. Overtime this act of nature erodes and weakens metal cooling system components causing them to fail. This process can lead to the vehicle breaking down due to its engine overheating. The electronic voltage remover is designed to remove and dissipate this harmful voltage from the vehicle's engine cooling system.
US07775182B2 Boiler
Provided is a boiler equipped with a burner capable of realizing a reduction in emission of harmful substances using a liquid fuel such as kerosene or A-type heavy oil. A burner (20) is equipped with a nozzle part (22) spraying a liquid fuel into a combustion chamber (16) in a boiler body (10) formed by using a plurality of water tubes; provided around the nozzle part (22) is an air jetting part (27) constructed to control flow of air jetted from the air jetting part (27) so as to avoid short-passing of a gas produced by the burner (20) through a gas discharge port provided in the boiler body (10).
US07775178B2 Stent coating apparatus and method
An apparatus and method for coating abluminal surface of a stent is described. The apparatus includes a stent support, a coating device, and an imaging system. The coating device includes a solution reservoir and transducer assembly. The transducer assembly includes a plurality of transducers and a controller. Each transducer is used to generate focused acoustic waves in the coating substance in the reservoir. A controller is communicated to an image system to enable the transducers to generate droplets on demand and at the predetermined ejection points on the surface of the coating substance to coat the stent. A method for coating a stent includes stent mounting, stent movement, and droplet excitation.
US07775175B2 Mooring pull-in system
System for anchoring of a vessel, preferably at deep waters, comprising a number of anchoring lines, each anchoring line extending from a fastening means on the vessel to an anchor at the seabed, and the anchoring lines are preferably arranged tightly, obliquely down into the sea around the vessel in the form of spread anchoring, such that the vessel is maintained in a fixed, intended position, distinguished in that each anchoring line is fastened to an anchor and extends out in one length, without joinings, to an upper end where a coupling part is fastened, and the fastening means comprises a crib for each anchoring line, where each coupling part can be laid down in an intended, fastened position.Method for anchoring of a vessel, with use of the system according to the invention.
US07775167B2 Custom planter and method of custom planting
A planter for planting multiple rows of seeds in which the spacing between rows and the spacing between seeds in a row can be varied includes at least two planting units, each planting unit adapted for planting a row of seeds, the planting units being mounted so that the spacing between the at least two of the planting units can be changed, and the rate of planting of at least one of the planting units being independently changeable. A method of planting seeds in a field with a multi-row planter having a plurality of planting units each adapted for planting a row of seeds, includes selectively changing at least one of the spacing between at least two adjacent planting units and the rate of operation of at least one of the planting units during the planting so that at least one of the row spacing or the seed spacing in the rows is not uniform across the planted field.
US07775166B2 Method of using nanoalloy additives to reduce plume opacity, slagging, fouling, corrosion and emissions
A process for improving the operation of combustors includes the steps of burning a carbonaceous fuel in a combustor system and determining combustion conditions within the combustor system that can benefit from a targeted treatment additive, wherein the determinations are made by calculation including computational fluid dynamics and observation. The process further includes locating introduction points in the combustor system where introduction of the targeted treatment additive could be accomplished. Based on the previous steps, a treatment regimen for introducing the targeted treatment additive to locations within the combustor system results in one or more benefits selected from the group consisting of reducing the opacity of plume, improving combustion, reducing slag, reducing LOI and/or unburned carbon, reducing corrosion, and improving electrostatic precipitator performance. The targeted treatment additive comprises an alloy represented by the following generic formula (Aa)n(Bb)n(Cc)n(Dd)n(. . .)n, wherein each capital letter and (. . .) is a metal, wherein A is a combustion modifier, B is a deposit modifier; C is a corrosion inhibitor; and D is a combustion co-modifier/electrostatic precipitator enhancer, wherein each subscript letter represents compositional stoichiometry, wherein n is greater than or equal to zero and the sum of n's is greater than zero, and wherein the alloy comprises at least two different metals, with the proviso that if the metal is cerium, then its compositional stoichiometry is less than about 0.7.
US07775165B2 Collapsible furniture and method to collapse and assemble using a plug joint system
Plug joint system and method of use are described for collapsible furniture. This new type of furniture joinery results in furniture which can quickly and easily be assembled, disassembled, transported, stored and reassembled. The joint comprises a tapered plug, a square hole at the top end of one furniture part for receiving the plug, and another furniture part with an opening through which the first furniture part is inserted. Each corner of the square hole has a vertical relief cut, allowing the four sides to expand outward when the plug is driven into the hole, securely fixing the two furniture parts together. The plug can easily be dislodged from the square hole by applying pressure from the bottom of the hole.
US07775163B2 Rail road car and bearing adapter fittings therefor
A rail road freight car truck, which may be a Barber S2HD truck or other kind of truck, has a truck bolster and a pair of side frames, the truck bolster being mounted transversely relative to the side frames. The sideframes are mounted on a pair of wheelsets. The bolster may be resiliently sprung and may have friction dampers. Either the friction dampers or the sideframe column wear plates may have a non-metallic wear plate, or wear surface, which may be replaceable, and which may tend to exhibit non-stick slip, or reduced stick slip behaviour in use. Bearing adapters may be mounted on the bearings of the wheelsets, and resilient pad members may be mounted on the bearing adapters. The pedestal seats may sit over the resilient pads. There may be a discontinuity in the vertical load path between the pedestal roof and the bearing. The discontinuity in the vertical load path may tend to shed a portion of the vertical load to either side of the top rollers of the bearing races to a greater extent than if the vertical load path discontinuity were not present.
US07775159B2 Cantilevered blanket cylinder lifting mechanism
An offset print unit includes a plate cylinder, a blanket cylinder having an end and a blanket gear coaxial with the blanket cylinder, a drive axle or pinion supporting a gear driving the blanket gear and a blanket lift arm for selectively supporting the end to cantilever the blanket cylinder, the blanket lift arm being rotatable about the drive axle or pinion. A method is also provided.
US07775157B2 Tofu prepper
An apparatus for easily removing excess moisture from blocks of tofu. The apparatus comprises a container which holds the tofu. A first substantially flat plate member is disposed within such container and placed on top of the tofu. A second substantially flat plate member which has a spring attached thereon engages a pair of arm like projections disposed on upper surfaces and on opposite sides of the container member. The other end of the spring engages the upper surface of the first flat plate member that sits on the top of the tofu so that as the spring exerts pressure on the first flat plate member water is removed from the tofu.
US07775156B2 Fry basket for processing of bulk food items and method
An open top fry basket device suited for use in a semi-automated food processing station, system and method is provided that allows cooked food items to be dispensed through a pivotable bottom of the fry basket actuated by the operator. The efficient and ergonomic design permits emptying of the fry basket without necessitating the turning over of the basket to dump the contents into a food storage bin.
US07775155B2 Rotary cooker for use with chamfered, stackable cans
A rotary cooker and/or sterilizer is provided with a novel rail design to facilitate processing of chamfered, stackable cans and which prevents damage to the protective coating of chamfered, stackable cans which occurs in prior art rotary cookers. A split rail is provided having an inclined track for carrying and guiding one end of chamfered, stackable cans and a flat track for carrying and guiding the other ends of the cans so that the side wall of each can does not contact the rail and is not subjected to the abrasion of the side wall of the can otherwise caused by prior art flat rails used to carry and guide both ends of the cans. The rail design includes flanges for limiting side-to-side motion of the cans as well as rail segments which are placed in the rotary cooker wherein each rail segment supports and guides the top ends of cans in one row of cans and the bottom ends of cans moving in an adjacent row of cans.
US07775150B2 Law enforcement carbine with one piece receiver
An indirect gas operating system for an M4 type automatic or semi-automatic firearm. The indirect gas operating system has a gas block having a cylinder. The gas block is fitted to a barrel assembly having a bore with the cylinder in communication with the bore. A piston having a piston end and a striking end has the piston end fitted to the cylinder. A bolt assembly having a striking surface is provided. When a cartridge is fired, gas displaces the piston end and causes the striking end to strike the striking surface displacing the bolt assembly. The cylinder and the piston are together removable as an assembly from the firearm without removal of the gas block.
US07775145B2 System for neutralizing explosive and electronic devices
A system for executing a method for neutralizing an explosive device disposed within a targeted area. In operation, an artificial lightning generator of the system generates one or more electric sparks. Additionally, a spinning breakout apparatus of the system spins a spark emission point in a predetermined pattern within the targeted area, and for neutralizing the explosive device, discharges the electric spark(s) into the targeted area via the spark emission point.
US07775142B2 Method and device for processing carbon bodies
The present invention concerns a method and a device for processing calcinated carbon bodies such as anodes or cathodes for use in connection with electrolytic production of aluminum. The carbon bodies are processed using a rotating processing tool that includes a mainly circular disc with cutting edges mounted at its periphery. The cutting edges may be made of polycrystalline diamond (PCD) or an equivalent material. Thus, it is possible to create slots in calcinated carbon bodies in an efficient manner with low tool wear.
US07775134B2 Transmission system for tractor
The invention relates to four wheel drive switching device of a tractor which use the hydraulic pressure to move a sliding gear of the devices, and the four wheel drive switching device is controlled by means of one-touch button operation of a user. The four wheel drive switching device has a rear wheel drive shaft, a second drive gear, a third drive gear, a sliding gear, a hydraulic flow path, a cylinder room, a return spring and a front wheel drive gear. The hydraulic pressure force is acted on the sliding gear through the flow path, and the sliding gear is moved to one side, and the hydraulic pressure force holds the third drive gear to remain power transmission state.
US07775130B2 Capacitive sensor based inventory control
A method, apparatus and system of capacitive sensor based inventory control is disclosed. In one embodiment, an inventory management system includes a first conductive surface and a second conductive surface substantially parallel to the first conductive surface, a sensor to generate a measurement based on a change in a distance between the first conductive surface and the second conductive surface, a scale formed with a set of plates having inserted between the set of plates the first conductive surface and the second conductive surface and a container placed above the scale such that an item (e.g., a liquid, a solid, a discrete part, a powder and/or a gas, etc.) of the container is weighed through the measurement. The inventory management system may further include a reference capacitor associated with the apparatus to enable the sensor to adjust the measurement based on the environmental condition.
US07775129B2 Rotation angle sensor
A rotation angle sensor is provided with a shaft portion having a torsion bar, a rotation angle sensing portion for detecting rotation angle of the shaft portion, and a torque sensing portion for detecting angle of torsion of the torsion bar. The rotation angle sensing portion and the torque sensing portion improve their own detecting accuracies by using each other's detecting result, whereby the rotation angle sensor can detect rotation angle and angle of torsion of a multi-turn rotatable body with high accuracy and high resolution.
US07775128B2 Cassette-based power meter
A cassette-based power measuring apparatus includes a power sensing arrangement mounted within a cavity defined by a hollow bicycle cassette. The power sensing arrangement includes a torque sensing assembly including torque sensing elements configured to measure a user applied torque. The torque sensing elements are in communication with an electronics assembly configured to process the measured data and transmit it to a receiver. The torque sensing assembly may comprise a torque tube or a series of bending beams secured between a rear plate of the cassette and a freehub. The torque tube or bending beams may include strain gauges bonded thereto for measuring strain induced by application of forces in response to user-applied power.
US07775126B2 Fluid flow monitor
A differential force sensor method and apparatus for automatically monitoring manual injections through an intravenous line. The differential force sensor includes two piezoresistive sense die that are packaged in close proximity utilizing a number of packaging processes. The two piezoresistive sense die can be utilized to measure forces exerted on a diaphragm on either side of an orifice. The piezoresistive sense die can be packaged in close proximity to make intimate contact with the diaphragms on either side of the orifice. The differential force sensor further includes two plungers that make intimate contact with the diaphragm and transfer the force into the piezo-resistive sense dies. Additionally, one or more ASICs and microcontrollers can be utilized to provide thermal calibration and differential calculation.
US07775123B2 Weld inspection rig and related method for use
A weld inspection device is disclosed. The weld inspection device comprises a first annular engagement portion surrounding a central axis and a second annular engagement portion. The first annular engagement portion has a first holed segment extending circumferentially around an outer edge of the first annular engagement portion and having a first hole adapted to receive a threaded member and a standoff segment extending in a first direction along the central axis from the first holed segment, the standoff segment having a concavity. The second annular engagement portion surrounds the central axis and has a second holed segment extending circumferentially around the central axis and having a second hole adapted to receive and threadedly engage a threaded member, and a retaining flange extending radially inward toward the central axis.
US07775118B2 Sensor element assembly and method
Described herein is the sense element assembly for a capacitive pressure sensor and method for creating same that has increased sensitivity without additional size. The sense element assembly and method includes fabricating an off-centered elliptically shaped center electrode, at least one elliptical annular-like electrode around the center electrode, a ground electrode and a method for fusing the layers together to optimize sensitivity.
US07775116B2 Pressure transducer with eccentric sleeve for adjusting the position of a pressure port
This invention relates to a pressure measuring instrument, as well as a dedicated liner, especially for subsea use and adapted for coupling to a pressurized medium in a container or pipe through at leas tone opening therein and thus measure the pressure in the medium at this location, wherein the pressure measuring instrument is provided with at least one insertion part for positioning in said opening, the insertion part comprising a outward protruding liner, said liner being rotatably coupled to the insertion part and having an inner cylindrical or conical surface and an outer cylindrical or conical surface, said inner and outer surfaces having non-coinciding parallel or essentially parallel centre axis.
US07775112B2 Method of sector probe driving and ultrasound diagnostic apparatus
The transmitter/receiver for a convex probe and linear probe are used to drive a sector probe. Usually, when an ultrasound diagnostic apparatus using a convex probe and linear probe uses a sector probe, it selects vibration elements of N in number, which is equal to the number of channels of the sector probe, out of vibration elements of L in number (N is smaller than L), so that the selected elements are distributed at a virtually constant pitch in the alignment of vibration elements, and turns on only high voltage switches which are connected with the selected vibration elements to implement the sector scanning with the transmitter/receiver. It becomes possible to implement the sector scanning by using the transmitter/receiver having channels less than the number of vibration elements of the sector probe.
US07775111B2 Method of analyzing ultrasonic inspection data from turbine wheel finger dovetails to identify the presence of cracks on the finger ledges
A method of analyzing ultrasonic inspection data from turbine wheel or bucket dovetail fingers for a crack about a ledge thereof with the turbine wheel or bucket having a number of adjacent holes therethrough. The method may include inserting an ultrasonic probe into a first hole, rotating an ultrasonic beam of the ultrasonic probe to scan the adjacent holes, scanning each adjacent hole, and determining the presence of the crack in the ledge by the failure to receive a signal from one or more of the adjacent holes.
US07775110B2 Ultrasonic sensor
An ultrasonic sensor includes an ultrasonic detecting element, an acoustic matching member, and an oscillation damping member. The ultrasonic detecting element detects an ultrasonic wave. The acoustic matching member has a receiving surface that is adapted on a side of the certain object to be exposed to a space, in which the detected body exists. The receiving surface receives the ultrasonic wave reflected by the detected body. The acoustic matching member is made of a material having an acoustic impedance larger than that of air and smaller than that of the ultrasonic detecting element. The oscillation damping member is disposed between an attachment portion and the acoustic matching member. The attachment portion is adapted for attaching the ultrasonic sensor to the certain object. The oscillation damping member damps transmission of oscillation from the certain object to the acoustic matching member.
US07775105B2 Multi-function sensor
A multi-function sensor is disclosed which provides a reliable and simple device for accurately measuring and/or monitoring the ambient conditions within a container or the like, such as the level of a fluid, the turbidity of a fluid, the temperature of a fluid or surrounding environment and the ambient pressure. The sensor incorporates a fluid level sensor module, a turbidity sensor module, a temperature sensor module and a pressure sensor module. The fluid level sensor module utilizes a plurality of thermocouple junctions grouped in pairs with the pairs being spaced along a line extending generally in the direction in which the liquid level may vary. The thermocouple junctions are connected in series and produce a signal indicative of the level of liquid along the sensor. A turbidity sensor module is also integrally included on the multi-function sensor. Additionally, temperature and pressure sensor modules may also be incorporated in the multi-function sensor. Alternatively, a fluid flow rate sensor module may be included in place of the liquid level sensor module.
US07775104B2 Thermal flowmeter in which relationship among length of heat resistor, heating temperature for the heat resistor, and power supplied to the heat resistor is prescribed
To reduce power consumption by a thermal flowmeter while good flow-rate detection sensitivity is maintained, it is only necessary to reduce power consumption by a heat resistor under predetermined conditions. Specifically, provided that a width Wh of the heat resistor is between 100 micrometers and 400 micrometers inclusive (100≦Wh≦400), it is only necessary that a relationship among the length Lh of the heat resistor, a temperature increase ΔTh for the heat resistor, and a maximum permissible power Phmax to be supplied to the heat resistor be set so as to satisfy a formula 1.4≦ΔTh·Lh/Ph max≦2.8 in order to maintain good flow-rate detection sensitivity. Accordingly, the length of the heat resistor and the temperature increase in the heat resistor are set so that the maximum power consumption can be reduced within a range in which the formula is satisfied.
US07775103B2 Rain sensor with sigma-delta modulation and/or footprinting comparison(s)
A system and/or method for sensing the presence of moisture (e.g., rain) and/or other material(s) on a window such as a vehicle window (e.g., vehicle windshield, sunroof or backlite). In certain example embodiments of the invention, at least one sensing capacitor is supported by a window such as a vehicle windshield, the capacitor(s) having a field that is affected by moisture (e.g., rain) on a surface of the window. A sensing circuit outputs an analog signal that is based on and/or related to the capacitance(s) of the sensing capacitor(s). The analog output of the circuit may be converted to a digital signal via sigma-delta modulation, and subjected to processing (e.g., correlation) for determining whether moisture (e.g., rain, dew, fog, etc.) or the like is present on the surface of the window.
US07775101B2 Dynamic gear inspection system
A universal dynamic gear quality and consistency verification inspection system and method is provided. The system and method provides a dynamic gear verification inspection station including a Double Flank master gear and a probe for inspecting gear features and an electronic plug having pre-reference pads and mechanical rests for supporting and locating the part to be inspected. The probes are provided to verify all angles and functional parameters relayed to appropriate software for evaluation and record maintenance. A probe may also be provided for face checking.
US07775097B1 Tire pressure detector
A tire pressure detector, which is installed on an air tap of a wheel to detect the tire pressure, comprises an air-intake device, a bidirectional sleeve and a cap. The air-intake device includes an air-intake seat. The air-intake seat has an air-intake member and an engagement member. The air-intake seat is installed on the air tap via the air-intake member. The bidirectional sleeve has a first connection member and a second connection member, which are respectively formed on two sides of a separating member. The first connection member engages with the engagement member of the air-intake seat to form an air chamber accommodating a detection device detecting the tire pressure. The cap has a connection wall, which cooperates with the second connection member to form an accommodation space receiving a power source powering the detection device.
US07775096B2 Wheel based sensor assembly
A wheel and sensor assembly includes a U-shaped bracket assembly mounting to and moving with a wheel assembly. One or more sensor device(s) such as camber angle and slip angle sensors mount to the bracket assembly for operatively measuring one or more wheel assembly parameter(s) during vehicle use. The bracket assembly mounts to the wheel assembly and turns therewith. The bracket assembly positions the sensor device(s) in operative optimal proximity to the road surface during vehicle use under actual operating conditions.
US07775091B2 Method and apparatus for determining intake air mass
A method for determining intake air mass into the engine includes equipping an air intake system with an air meter system configured to generate a signal output having a cycle period correlatable to an intake air mass. The signal output from the air meter system is monitored during an event, and successive cycle periods of the signal output from the air meter system are determined. Intake air mass for each of the successive cycle periods is determined and integrated.
US07775087B2 Microchannel forming method and nanotipped dispensing device having a microchannel
A method of forming a microchannel as well as a thin film structure including same is made by forming a first thin film on a side of a substrate, forming a fugitive second thin film on the first thin film such that the second thin film defines a precursor of the elongated microchannel and a plurality of extensions connected to and extending transversely relative to the precursor along a length thereof A third thin film is formed on the first thin film and the fugitive second thin film such that the second thin film resides between the first thin film and the third thin film. A respective access site is formed in a region of the third thin film residing on a respective extension and penetrating to the fugitive second thin film. The fugitive second thin film forming the precursor is selectively removed from between the first thin film and the third thin film using an etching medium introduced through the access sites, thereby forming the microchannel between the first thin film and the third thin film. The method preferably further includes forming a sealing layer on the third thin film in a manner to close off open access sites remaining after selective removal of the second thin film.
US07775086B2 Band excitation method applicable to scanning probe microscopy
Methods and apparatus are described for scanning probe microscopy. A method includes generating a band excitation (BE) signal having finite and predefined amplitude and phase spectrum in at least a first predefined frequency band; exciting a probe using the band excitation signal; obtaining data by measuring a response of the probe in at least a second predefined frequency band; and extracting at least one relevant dynamic parameter of the response of the probe in a predefined range including analyzing the obtained data. The BE signal can be synthesized prior to imaging (static band excitation), or adjusted at each pixel or spectroscopy step to accommodate changes in sample properties (adaptive band excitation). An apparatus includes a band excitation signal generator; a probe coupled to the band excitation signal generator; a detector coupled to the probe; and a relevant dynamic parameter extractor component coupled to the detector, the relevant dynamic parameter extractor including a processor that performs a mathematical transform selected from the group consisting of an integral transform and a discrete transform.
US07775085B2 High water cut well measurements with hydro-separation
Methods and systems for determining the water, oil, and gas fractions in hydrocarbons from high water cut hydrocarbon wells. A hydrocarbon flow stream discharging from a well is subjected to hydro-separation to produce an oil-enriched fractional stream upon which water content measurements can be more accurately and reproducibly made. Calculations based on the water content of the oil-enriched fractional stream and the flow rate of at least one of the streams through the separator are conducted to determine the water content of the original stream. This provides a simple approach to measuring the water content in high water cut hydrocarbons that is real-time, accurate, and reproducible.
US07775080B2 Rolling method and rolling apparatus for flat-rolled metal materials
A rolling method and a rolling apparatus for flat-rolled metal materials that stably produces flat-rolled metal materials having no or extremely little camber. The rolling mill having work rolls with split backup rolls supporting at least one work roll is provided with at least one pair of pinch rolls for clamping the rolled material on the exit side of the rolling mill. The difference between the rolling direction force acting on the work rolls at the right and left sides is calculated. The left-right difference of the roll gap of the work rolls is controlled as a result of the calculated difference.
US07775072B2 Safety switch for a moveable guard door
There is disclosed a safety switch for generating an enable signal as a function of the position of a moveable guard door. The safety switch comprises a door part and a frame part. The door part has an activator, which can be displaced between a first and a second position. The frame part has a cutout, in which the activator can engage in the second position. A locking element is arranged on the door part in order to lock the activator in the second position. A sensor is designed to detect at least one of the positions of the activator in order to generate the enable signal as a function thereof.
US07775069B1 Therapeutic stocking
A therapeutic compression stocking is knitted in an integrated knit format to have an oversized heel pocket from which an ankle arch portion extends that is knitted in a rib stitch format that is free of wrinkles when donned. The foot portion has a constant compression force while the leg portion has a graduated compression force. The leg portion compression force being less than the foot portion compression force.
US07775067B2 Heat exchanger header tank and heat exchanger comprising same
A heat exchanger has header tanks each including a header forming plate, a tube connecting plate, and an intermediate plate interposed between the two plates, the plates being arranged in superposed layers and brazed to one another. Each of the plates is made from a metal plate by press work. The header forming plate has an outward bulging portion. The tube connecting plate has tube insertion holes. The intermediate plate has communication holes causing tube insertion holes to communicate with the interior of each outward bulging portion therethrough. Heat exchange tubes have opposite ends placed into the respective insertion holes and brazed to the respective tube connecting plates. The heat exchanger including such header tanks is reduced in the number of components, can be fabricated with a high work efficiency, and exhibits improved heat exchange performance.
US07775063B2 Method and apparatus for harvesting water and latent energy from a gaseous mixture
An apparatus harvests latent energy and water by adiabatically decompressing a controlled volume of atmospheric air to lower its pressure and temperature below the saturation point of included water vapor, thus causing the water vapor to change state to nonvaporous water and release to the decompressed air thermal energy associated with the change of state. The apparatus then extracts the nonvaporous water, leaving the released thermal energy in the decompressed air. The apparatus then recompresses the decompressed air, which will have a resulting temperature, and thus a thermal energy, greater than those of the initially ingested air, and harvests the recompressed air and its increased thermal energy. The apparatus can also humidify and warm atmospheric air before it is ingested to increase appreciably the amount of harvested thermal energy.
US07775061B2 Unit arrangement
A unit arrangement having a receiving housing, in particular a switchgear cabinet, in an interior of which electrical units are accommodated and having a cooling device which is in air-conducting communication with the interior of the receiving housing via at least one air inlet and at least one blower aperture, and a cooling operation monitoring device. A requirement-orientated control of the cooling operation is possible when the cooling operation monitoring device has an inlet temperature sensor which measures a temperature of the air to be cooled which is supplied to the cooling unit via the air inlet. An outlet temperature sensor measures a temperature of the cooled air which is supplied to the interior of the receiving housing via the blower aperture. A computing unit of the cooling operation monitoring device determines a temperature difference between the temperature measured by the inlet temperature sensor and the outlet temperature sensor.
US07775058B2 Cooler and refrigerator
In controlled cooling operation, data on the controlled cooling operation characteristics is read out from a memory and compared with a drop degree of an inside temperature actually measured by an inside temperature sensor 46, and a cooling device is operated so that the inside temperature drops following a temperature curve stored in advance. A state where the inside temperature is higher than the set temperature by 7 K or more lasts for 15 minutes, for example, the cooling capacity by the cooling device is increased than the cooling capacity based on control of a controlled operation controller so that even if a door 17 is frequently opened/closed and the inside temperature tends to gradually rise, it can be detected at an early stage and kept close to the set temperature.
US07775055B2 Sub-cooling unit for cooling system and method
A system for cooling a medium includes a line having coolant flowing therein, and a sub-cooling unit in fluid communication with the line. The sub-cooling unit receives a portion of the coolant diverted from the line to cool coolant flowing in the line. A method of cooling a medium is further disclosed.
US07775051B2 Arrangement for a jet engine combustion chamber
The combustion chamber includes a chamber endwall perforated by at least one passage hole. An injection system is mounted so that it can slide diametrically with respect to the passage hole. A deflector is mounted on the chamber endwall. The deflector includes a fitting ring which includes first tenons. A sleeve which is coaxial to the fitting ring includes second tenons. The first and the second tenons allow the passage of the first tenons between the second tenons and then the engagement of the first tenons behind the second tenons. The injection system is slidably mounted in the sleeve. Antirotation means are provided to prevent a rotation of the injection system with respect to the sleeve.
US07775047B2 Heat shield with stress relieving feature
A heat shield for a fuel member of a gas turbine engine having at least one heat shield segment having a connection edge with at least one joint receiving portion defined therealong for receiving a welded joint attaching the heat shield segment to a fuel member, each joint receiving portion including a stress relieving feature defined along at least one end thereof.
US07775046B2 Method and apparatus for augmented heat up of a unit
A system and a method of augmenting the heat up of a unit using a compressed, heated gas that contains moisture such as steam or vaporized water such that the specific heat of the gas is increased. In a preferred embodiment, steam in compressed inert gas such as nitrogen is capable of augmenting the heat up cycle for units such as process reactor vessels, furnaces, process steam and power production boilers, turbines, and other production vessels.
US07775044B2 Low volumetric compression ratio integrated turbo-compound rotary engine
A compound cycle engine (10) comprises a compressor and a turbine section (14, 18), and at least one cycle topping device (16) providing an energy input to the turbine section (18). The compressor section (14) compresses the air according to a pressure ratio PRgt. The cycle topping device (16) further compresses the air according to a volumetric compression ratio Rvc, and wherein PRgt×Rvc are selected, according to one aspect of the invention, to provide a cycle which permit a more compact and lighter compound cycle engine to be provided.
US07775031B2 Recuperator for aircraft turbine engines
A recuperator for use in transferring heat from gas turbine exhaust gases to compressed air inlet gases before combustion. The recuperator utilizes a plurality (e.g., thousands) of microtubes or microchannels to form a heat exchanger having high effectiveness and low pressure drop while maintaining a low weight. Accordingly, the recuperator presented herein may be incorporated into light aircraft and helicopters without significantly compromising the performance thereof.
US07775027B2 Quick switching mechanism for side discharge unit and grass chopper unit of a lawn mower
The present disclosed invention relates to a quick switching mechanism for the side discharge unit and the chopper unit of a lawn mower: a side discharge unit and a chopper unit are mounted at the grass outlet on a cutting platform; wherein, the side discharge unit comprises a grass discharging gear shaft, a grass discharging hood mounted on the grass discharging gear shaft; the grass chopper unit comprises a grass chopping gear shaft, a grass chopping closing plate mounted on the grass chopping gear shaft; the small gear on the grass discharging gear shaft is engaged to the big gear on the grass chopping gear shaft; a guy wire is mounted on the cutting platform, and is connected to a rotary arm mounted on one end of the grass chopping gear shaft. In the invention, the current grass discharging hood is kept, and therefore the safety of grass discharging is not compromised; during the mowing process, when the mower runs into a place (e.g., a kerb, shrub, etc.) where the grass discharging process is difficult, the mower can be switched from grass discharging mode to grass chopping mode immediately; after the mower passes the place, it can be switched back to grass discharging mode quickly; if the mower runs into a narrow place (e.g., the space between two trees), the mower can be switching from wide discharging mode to narrow discharging mode immediately; the mower can be switched back quickly after it passes through the place.
US07775021B2 Antenna packaging method
An antenna packaging method is provided. First, a first dish, a second dish, a third dish, a first bracket, a second bracket, a third bracket, a first arm, a second arm and a third arm are provided, wherein each of the first, second and third dishes has a central area. Then, a packaging unit is provided. Next, the first dish, the second dish and the third dish overlap with other. Then, the packaging unit is fixed to the first dish, the second dish and the third dish. Next, the first arm, the second arm and the third arm are fixed to the packaging unit. Finally, the first bracket, the second bracket and the third bracket are fixed to the packaging unit, wherein the first bracket, the second bracket and the third bracket correspond to the central area.
US07775017B2 Sealing heater
A sealing heater for heat sealing a film onto a multi-compartment container comprises a heating block having a contact surface. The contact surface includes an outer sealing portion and an intermediate sealing portion. The outer sealing seals a film to a perimeter surface of a multi-compartment tray and the intermediate sealing portion seals a film to substantially all of an intermediate surface between the compartments of the multi-compartment tray. The outer sealing portion and the intermediate sealing portion defining recess perimeters in the contact surface that are positioned to correspond substantially to the compartment perimeters in the multi-compartment tray. A heating element is disposed within the heating block for generating heat at the contact surface of the heating block sufficient to heat seal the sealing film to the perimeter surface and the intermediate surface between the compartments of the multi-compartment tray.
US07775016B2 Stretch wrap machine with top corner film transfer
A stretch wrap machine for wrapping a product comprising a base, a turn table on the base for rotating the product, a source of stretch wrap connected to the base, and a wrapping assembly configured to bring an end of the stretch wrap above the product, cut the stretch wrap at a position above the product after the product has been wrapped and/or hold an end of the stretch wrap at a position above the product as the turntable begins rotating the product.
US07775015B1 System and method for high-speed insertion of envelopes
This invention overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art by providing a system and method for inserting contents into envelopes that generally reduces the number of operative device components, locates all components in a readily and accessible location, reduces the number of adjustments needed to change envelope size and contents size, provides an efficient and aesthetically pleasing design, allows for a highly flexible arrangement of backup hoppers to primary hoppers for feeding envelope contents and otherwise affords a substantial number of improvements over currently available envelope inserters. The illustrative embodiment includes a feed table with a low-slung swing arm for handling contents, a pivoting feed table that exposes the operative components on the underside, a novel raceway belt with projecting lugs for transporting contents to the insertion area, a primary and secondary contents hopper backup system, a mechanism for easily adjusting for different-sized envelopes, and a variety of other novel features.
US07775009B2 System for providing a decorative covering on a support surface using panels with interlocks
A system for decoratively covering a support surface is provided. The system comprises a plurality of panels. Each panel includes a top, a bottom, and first and second ends. Each panel includes a nailing hem for mounting the panel to the support surface. Each panel also includes first and second rows of decorative portions simulating building materials. A riser interconnects the first and second rows. Each panel further includes a flap extending from the riser at the first end and a catch extending from the riser at the second end. The flap and catch mate with a corresponding catch and flap of horizontally adjacent panels. The flap and catch are both sloped upwardly toward the top at an acute angle to provide a mating fit between corresponding flaps and catches.
US07775002B2 Portable hurricane and security window barrier
An apparatus for covering an opening of a building comprising a plurality of rectangular panels. The panels are sized such that when they are stacked for storage, the panels nest together.
US07774997B2 System comprising a glazing element and a gas supply device
The invention relates to a system (1) comprising a glazing element (2) and a gas supply device (4), whereby the glazing element (2) has at least two substrates (18, 19), which enclose a space (3), and at least one gas of a defined composition located inside the space (3). A coating whose physical properties, in particular, optical and/or electrical properties, which can be altered according to the composition of the gas, is at least applied to one of the surfaces of a substrate (18, 19), said surfaces facing the space (3). The gas supply device (4) has at least one electrolysis device that has a working electrode (9), a counter electrode (10) and at least one electrolyte (17) for producing gas. The glazing element (2) and the gas supply device (4) are connected to one another whereby enabling the gas inside a closed circuit (6) to be guided between the glazing element (2) and the gas supply device (4). In addition, means for influencing the moisture content of the gas are placed inside the system.
US07774995B1 Wall restraint system
An apparatus for bracing a masonry wall that is bowing or has begun to buckle as a result of hydrostatic pressure and/or other forces as may occur with the foundation or basement wall of a building. The wall restraint system includes a vertically disposed beam, which is positioned against a vertical concrete masonry wall and secured in place by a bottom bracket and a top bracket. The beam reinforces the wall and prevents further bowing, buckling, or potentially collapsing of the wall. One end of the beam is secured to the floor by a bottom bracket. The bottom bracket preferably receives the lower end of the beam. The upper end of the beam is secured against the basement wall by a top bracket or offset connector, which in turn is secured to one of the overhead floor joists. The beam may be offset to avoid piping or the like.
US07774994B2 Telescoping tower
A mast section for a telescoping tower system is made by aligning press brake tools along the length of the metal sheet at spaced width locations and forming the corners of the tube. After forming of the last corner, an opening remains along the length of the tube. The press brake male tool axis is offset sufficiently to permit the tool to apply forming force to the last corner of the tube through the opening, and is sized to remove the tool from the opening. At least three mast sections are nested to form the tower system. Pulleys for a cable extension system are mounted near the upper and lower ends of a wall of an intermediate mast section, with one of the pulleys being oriented at an acute angle to the mast section wall to permit routing of the cable.
US07774991B2 Portable ground flooring systems and methods of assembling and packing same
A portable flooring system has one or more hinge members which can be used to quickly connect and secure panels or slats of the flooring system for deployment, while also allowing fast disassembly and stacking for storage or transport. The hinge member(s) can comprise a living hinge element interfacing with a pair of female elements or a female element and a male element of adjoining flooring slats. In one embodiment, the hinge elements are welded or otherwise permanently affixed to the flooring panels.
US07774990B1 Roof hip and ridge anchor device (CIP)
A device for roof structures having a ridge or hip defined by the planes of two roof decks, disposed at an angle with respect to each other defining a longitudinal joint. A longitudinally extending cover with at least one coextensive channel defined by a bottom, two spacer walls and two lateral walls are mounted over the ridge or hip. The channel(s) increases the effective contact area to enhance the gripping action of the adhesive compound. From the longitudinal bends of the cover wall extend two perpendicularly extending walls with distal ends that continue with longitudinally coextensive flanges. The longitudinal flanges extend at an angle to be cooperatively and rigidly mounted over the roof decks with mechanical fasteners. An adhesive compound is positioned in the channel and over the cover. The adhesive is pressed so that part of it passes through and is lodged within the connected depressed slots positioned along the bottom, spacer and/or lateral walls that define the channel thereby creating a mechanical anchorage with the device. Tile accessories are placed over the cover and in contact with the adhesive compound to secure them to the device.
US07774988B2 Inspection chamber, as well as set of base parts therefor
An inspection chamber having a plastic sleeve, a plastic base accommodated in the sleeve and at least two branches connected to the sleeve, which base has a flow profile that extends between the two branches. The base is made up of at least two separate base parts that are permanently fixed to one another at their edges facing one another, such as by welding, fusing, gluing and the like.
US07774985B2 Drive apparatus for sliding member
A driving apparatus for a sliding member includes a housing, a cable, a drum to move the cable to open and close the sliding member, a motor arranged to drive the drum, and a tensioner supported by the housing arranged to provide a tensioning force to the cable, the tensioner is arranged: to be switched from a first state where an urging force of a spring is stored to a second state where the urging force of the spring is released, to be moved from a first position where the tensioner does not provide the tensioning force to the cable to a second position where the tensioner provides an initial tensioning force to the cable when the tensioner is in the first state, and to be fixed in the second position and to be switched to the second state to provide the tensioning force to the cable by the urging force of the spring.
US07774982B2 Turn-tilt window
A turn-tilt window includes a blind frame and a leaf, which can be tilted in relation to the blind frame about a first axis (X axis) and turned about a second axis (Y axis), fittings, located between the leaf and the blind frame, for moving the leaf in relation to the blind frame, the fittings including at least one turn-tilt bearing, a rocker bearing, and a turn hinge. An electromechanical or electromagnetic functional element is associated with at least one of the rocker bearing and the turn hinge in order to control movement the leaf in relation to the blind frame. The functional element is controlled by a handle which is connected thereto via a wireless manner or by electric lines and is not connected to the functional element, the rocker bearing, or the turn hinge by any mechanical linkages.
US07774976B2 Insect trap
An insect trap has a hollow body generally centered on an upright axis, having a central upwardly open output passage, and formed around the central output passage with an annular intake passage having a dark-colored inner surface. A light-colored foraminous wall upwardly covers the central output passage and has a surface area substantially greater than that of the intake passage. A blower in the body expels air from the body through the central output passage and through the foraminous wall at a predetermined low speed and draws air into the annular intake passage at a high speed substantially higher than the predetermined low speed. Insects attracted by the weak stream or by a contrast between the dark-colored inner surface and the light-colored foraminous wall are trapped in the annular intake passage.
US07774973B2 Fishing rod holder
A novel fishing rod holder is based upon a foundation member mountable on a vertical, horizontal or angled surface of a boat or other structure, and includes a socket member structured for releasably retaining a fishing rod; an adjustable attitude arm member coupled between the foundation and the socket member; a relatively rotatable and releasably interlockable ball-and-socket articulation mechanism coupled between the foundation and the arm adjacent to a first end thereof; and a relatively rotatable and releasably interlockable pivot mechanism coupled between the socket member and the arm member adjacent to a second end thereof.
US07774971B2 Muzzle loading firearm with removable breech cap
A muzzle loading firearm has an elongated barrel defining an elongated bore, with a muzzle end and a breech end. A breech cap is removably connected the breech end of the barrel to enclose a chamber at the rear of the bore. A portion of the breech cap may be external to the barrel, which may be externally threaded. The breech cap may be entirely clear of the breech bore, and the bore may have a consistent profile from end to end. The barrel threads may be standard, multistart or interrupted. The breech cap may overlay the face of the rear end of the barrel.
US07774968B2 Transportable electronic sign display system
A transportable electronic sign display system having modular cabinets which support electronic display modules and electronics having male and female latching assemblies connecting adjacent electronic display modules. Robust male and female latching assemblies at the top and bottom of electronic display modules provide for forcible positive action latching between vertically situated electronic display modules to provide a minimally visible horizontally oriented seam therebetween. Side latches between horizontally situated electronic display modules assemblies provide for latching to provide a minimally visible vertically oriented seam therebetween.
US07774963B2 Display device with a plurality of rotatable sleeve elements, each having a plurality of indicia thereon
A display device having a plurality of rotatable sleeve elements, with each sleeve element having a plurality of indicia on its outer surfaces and a through opening. The through opening has a uniform cross-sectional shape that is generally circular, with at least one notch extending beyond the perimeter of the circle. The opposing surface of each sleeve element has at least one protrusion (or indentation) that corresponds in shape and size to at least one corresponding indentation (or protrusion) on the mating surface. When a plurality of sleeve elements are slidably and axially placed over the body abutting each other, the unique shape of the through opening of and the protrusion-indentation combination on each sleeve element allow the frictional rotation of the sleeve element with ease, but locks it at a predetermined position to provide a message from the combined indicia on the sleeve elements.
US07774959B2 Dragline bucket, rigging and system
A dragline bucket includes a bottom wall, a pair of sidewalls and a rear wall that collectively define a cavity. The sidewalls each have a large downward taper of at least about 7 degrees in at least its forward area. In an alternative embodiment, the sidewalls each have an upward taper in its rearward area which alleviates the need for a spreader bar. The dragline bucket collects earthen material with minimal disruption of the material.
US07774958B2 Replaceable shoe cleat
A replaceable shoe cleat is provided having a receptacle element and a detachable cleat element. The receptacle element is adapted to be located within a sole of a shoe. The receptacle element has at least one detent receiving portion. The detachable cleat element is capable of insertion into the receptacle element. The detachable cleat element has a frame with at least one resilient detent portion. The cleat element has a movable lock element coupled with and movable relative to the frame. The resilient detent portion is adapted to enter the at least one detent receiving portion when the cleat element is located in the receptacle element. The movable lock element is movable relative to the frame to lock the at least one resilient detent portion relative to the frame.
US07774951B2 Sensing device with whisker elements
A sensing device includes an elongated whisker element having a flexible cantilever region and a base region where a change in moment or curvature is generated by bending of the cantilever region when it contacts an object. One or more sensor elements cooperatively associated with the whisker element provide one or more output signals that is/are representative of two orthogonal components of change in moment or curvature at the whisker base region to permit determination of object distance, fluid velocity profile, or object contour (shape) with accounting for lateral slip of the whisker element and frictional characteristics of the object. Multiple sensing devices can be arranged in arrays in a manner to sense object contour without or with adjustment for lateral slip.
US07774950B2 Leveling device
A leveling device comprises a generally horizontal frame configured to hold a number of parallel, closely spaced support legs in a generally vertical configuration. The support legs are slidably mounted in collars formed in the frame such that the legs may slide up and down within the collars. The support legs are configured to move independently of one another and to be locked into place using a locking mechanism configured to frictionally or mechanically engage the support legs once the legs are positioned to match the contour of the ground or other uneven surface. Multiple embodiments of the locking mechanism are disclosed. The leveling device of the present invention not only may be used to level an object on an uneven surface, but also can be used to adjust the height of an object on a even or uneven surface by adjusting the length of the support legs.
US07774948B1 Universal design straightedge
A universal design straightedge comprising a body having a top surface and a perimeter bounded by at least one edge, the top surface comprising evenly spaced apart linear rulings perpendicularly disposed to and extending from the edge, some of the linear rulings corresponding to a unit of measure, and some of said linear rulings corresponding to a fraction of the unit of measure, and numerical indicia associated with substantially all of the rulings, substantially all of the numerical indicia substantially centered about a centerline of respective linear rulings, the numerical indicia oriented in standard upright reading position with respect to the edge where the straightedge is arranged with the edge in an underlying relation with respect to the numerical indicia. The numerical indicia associated with the linear rulings corresponding to a fraction of the unit of measure may include a composite of full and fractional numerical indicia. The straightedge may also include a handle projecting generally perpendicularly from the top surface, the handle having a height substantially greater than a thickness of the body.
US07774946B2 Method and device for non-contact measurement of the alignment of motor vehicle wheels
The invention relates to a method for non-contact measurement of the alignment of the wheels of a motor vehicle. In practice, the method provides for the steps of: applying a plurality of markers to the wheels of the motor vehicle along a line approximately substantially coaxial with the wheel; positioning, at each wheel for which the characteristic angles must be acquired, two image acquisition devices, with different inclinations with respect to said wheel; acquiring for each of said wheels, through each of said two image acquisition devices, at least one image of said wheel with the relative markers; determining, through epipolar and triangulation geometrical calculations, the equation of an approximate plane in which said markers lie in space, with respect to a reference system; determining the camber and toe angles of said wheel on the basis of the equation of said plane and of the equation of the reference planes with respect to which the motor vehicle takes a known position.
US07774944B1 Saw blade adaptor and holder
An adaptor for attaching new, worn or broken blades to reciprocating saws. The adaptor has a slot wide enough to accommodate the working portion of the blade and includes a clamping member to clamp the blade in the slot. Since the blades are slightly flexible, the slot has a height slightly greater than the thickness of the blade, and the clamping member, such as a threaded member with a rounded end, will clamp and hold the blade by forcing it downwardly into a recess while forcing the edges of the blade upwardly into the upper shoulders of the slot. The adapter is provided with a tongue that allows the adapter to fit most, if not all, presently available saws.
US07774943B2 Knife
A knife comprises a body, a feed blade store, a return blade store, a feed path along which a blade can be fed from the feed blade store to an operative position, and from the operative position to the return blade store, and control means operable to ensure that a returning blade is returned to the return blade store.
US07774938B2 Method of production a tire rim having different wall thicknesses
Thus, the present disclosure includes a method of producing a weight-optimized pneumatic tire rim having rotationally-symmetrically partially different wall thickness. The steps include: providing a tube section having a first wall thickness and two end sides; leveling the first wall thickness starting from the two end sides over a defined rotationally-symmetrical area thereby forming two flanks by precontouring, each of the flanks having a second wall thickness, and pushing tolerance-caused excess material of the flanks into a well base zone between the two flanks; and contouring the flanks by pressure rolling while drawing each of the flanks toward an end area of each of the flanks and reducing the thickness of each of the flanks partially differently to predetermined measurements. The present disclosure also includes a device to implement the method.
US07774932B2 Circuit board process
A circuit board process is provided. First, multiple carriers is provided, and a first conductive layer having multiple concave structures is formed on each carrier. A dielectric layer is then provided, and the carriers with the first conductive layers are laminated on a first and a second surface of the dielectric layer respectively, wherein portions of the first conductive layers are embedded in the first and second surfaces. Next, the carriers are removed. Thereafter, the first conductive layer corresponding to at least one concave is removed to expose a portion of the dielectric layer. Next, the exposed dielectric layer is removed to form an opening. A second conductive layer is then formed on the inner wall of the opening, wherein the second conductive layer is electrically connected to the first conductive layers on both sides of the dielectric layer.
US07774931B2 Method of fabricating an integrated intraocular retinal prosthesis device
Intraocular retinal prosthesis devices and methods for fabricating the same. A prosthesis device includes a cable region that connects an electrode array region with a power and data management region. The electrode array region includes one or more arrays of exposed electrodes, and the power and data management region includes various power and control elements. The power and data management elements, in one aspect, include an RF coil or coils and circuit arrangements and/or chips configured to provide drive signals to the electrodes via a cable and receive power and signals from the RF coil or coils. Each region includes elements fabricated on or in a single polymer layer during the same fabrication process.
US07774921B2 Horizontal axis washing machine having 4 pole 36 slot motor
A horizontal axis washing machine includes a clothing receptacle rotated by a 4 pole rotor. A 36 slot stator having an interior bore with an interior diameter receives the 4 pole rotor in magnetic coupling relation and capable of operating within a flux weakening range of at least 5:1. The stator has a ratio of an interior diameter to a minimum exterior diameter greater than or equal to 0.63:1.
US07774920B2 Fabrication of metallic microstructures via exposure of photosensitive compostion
A method of forming microstructures. An article including a metal atom precursor is disproportionally exposed to electromagnetic radiation in an amount and intensity sufficient to convert some of the precursor to elemental metal. Additional conductive material may then be deposited onto the elemental metal to produce a microstructure.
US07774919B2 Method of use of collapsible container for air shipment of cargo
A collapsible cargo container (10) is configurable into an erected condition and a collapsed condition. The container (10) comprises a base (12), a pair of opposed side walls (14) hinged to the base (12), a top (16) hinged to the side walls (14), a front wall (18) hinged to the base (12), a back wall (20) hinged to the base (12), flaps (22, 24, 26, 28, 30 and 32) hinged to the side walls (14) and top (16), and a door (34) formed in one of the walls. Fasteners (36) secure the flaps (22, 24, 26, 28, 30 and 32) to the front and back walls (18, 20) when the container (10) is in the erected condition. The front and back walls (18, 20) are collapsible upon the base (12) and the side walls (14) and top (16) are collapsible upon the front and back walls (18, 20) when the container (10) is in the collapsed condition.
US07774918B2 Drilling apparatus and method
A method and apparatus are disclosed for securing a first target element to a second target element. The method includes the steps of locating a support member arranged to simultaneously support a drilling head device and a riveting head device at a predetermined location proximate to the first and second target elements, via the drilling head drilling at least one hole through the first and second target elements at a desired location and without relocating the support member via the riveting head device, inserting a rivet in said hole and securing the inserted rivet.
US07774917B2 Forge welding tubulars
Tubular ends are heated to a predetermined temperature above 1200 degrees Celsius and surrounded by a shield gas when the tubular ends are pressed together to form forge welded tubular ends. The forge welded tubular ends are then cooled down rapidly from said temperature above 1200 to at most 600 degrees Celsius within 3 minutes after the forge welding operation.
US07774916B2 Shrink fitting method including deformation
A new shrink fitting method including deformation is disclosed, in which a high bonding force can be obtained without accurate mechanical process such as forming an insertion body having an outer diameter greater than an inner diameter of an object for receiving the insertion body. The shrink fitting method comprises preparing a pipe and a rod material whose inner and outer diameters are different from each other; bonding the pipe and the rod material to each other in a state that the pipe or the rod material is deformed by heating; deforming the pipe to allow the inner diameter of the pipe to be equal to the outer diameter of the rod material; and cooling the bonded pipe and rod material. The shrink fitting method can be widely used for various mechanical parts.
US07774905B2 Element of a cable tie strap
A low profile locking tie head having a reduced wall thickness is provided for use in conjunction with a flexible strap. The low profile head comprises a wall, which circumferentially defines an opening, a reinforcement rib attached to the wall, and a pawl mechanism disposed at least partially inside the opening. A pair of clamping rails preferably provides a complete clamping surface, lowers the required tie head height, and assists in the transfer of force to the reinforcement rib. Further, a tie head retainer is provided to allow secure connection to a predetermined support structure.
US07774904B2 Apparatus in spinning preparation for separating foreign objects at a high-speed roll for opening or doffing fibre material
In an apparatus in spinning preparation for separating foreign objects at a roll for opening or doffing fiber material, at least one device for separating the foreign objects is associated with a face of the roll. That device comprises an arrangement for producing a current of blast air flowing onto the face for detaching the foreign objects and carrying them away. The arrangement comprises a plurality of blast nozzles arranged across the width of the roll. To permit separation and allow rapid changes of the action of the blast air current, a bar for mounting the blast nozzles is present and the outlet of the blast nozzles is locally displaceable in relation to the face of the roll.
US07774897B2 Vacuum cleaner having apparatus for giving off fragrant odor
The vacuum cleaner that includes a fragrant odor generating apparatus is provided. The fragrant odor generating apparatus is mounted to a discharge port of a grill member housed in a main cleaner body, to discharge an air freshener to an air being discharged through the discharge port after air containing dust is drawn in from a surface being cleaned and dust is separated from the drawn-in air. The fragrant odor generating apparatus includes a housing comprising a first air passing hole in fluid communication with the discharge port, and a second air passing hole in fluid communication with outside, an outer cover member pivotably mounted to the housing to selectively open and close the second air passing hole, and the air freshener containing a fragrant agent.
US07774895B2 Extraction with chemical exothermic reaction heating
An extraction cleaning machine comprising dispensing and recovery systems, the dispensing system including a system for generating heat with an exothermic reaction upon activation for heating the cleaning solution prior to dispensing of the cleaning solution onto a surface. The cleaning solution dispensing system comprises a cleaning solution reservoir to which the heat of the exothermic reaction can be added and a dispenser. The heat of the exothermic reaction can also be added in line to the cleaning solution between the cleaning solution reservoir and the dispenser. The recovery system includes a suction nozzle, a recovery tank and a vacuum source for drawing recovered liquid from the suction nozzle into the recovery tank. A method of cleaning a surface comprises the steps of heating a cleaning solution by an exothermic chemical reaction, applying the cleaning solution to the surface and recovering the cleaning solution from the surface.
US07774891B2 Toothbrush and process for producing the same
The invention relates to a toothbrush that is produced by AFT and has a head part and at least one carrier element connected thereto. A front surface of the head part is formed by the top surfaces of the at least one carrier element and has a non-planar three-dimensional configuration, or is capable of assuming such a configuration during intended use. The invention also relates to a process for producing such a toothbrush.
US07774882B2 Multi-function tool
A multi-function tool has a shank body including a first end, a second end and a plurality of positioning grooves formed between the first and second ends thereof. A pry bar includes a connected section and a working section extending from a side of the connected section for pulling nails. A through-hole pierces the connected section for slidably receiving the shank body, with a second receptacle piercing the connected section and in communication with the through-hole. A clutch is disposed in the second receptacle for alternatively engaging with a selected one of the positioning grooves.
US07774875B1 Swaddling blanket and pouch combination
A swaddling blanket and pouch combination (SBPC) (10) that allows an infant to be comfortably and easily swaddled. The blanket (12) is comprised of a right blanket flap (28) and a left blanket flap (46) and includes a designated area to which is removably attached the pouch (70). The pouch features a lower end (78) which includes an opening and closing means that allows an infant's soiled diaper to be easily removed and replaced or to take a rectal temperature. The SBPC (10) is used by first placing the left blanket flap (46) over the pouch (70), which is then followed by placing the right blanket flap (28) over the pouch. The right and left blanket flaps (28,46) as well as the pouch (70) are preferably held in place by hook and loop fasteners (88).
US07774873B2 Examination table
A wheelchair and an examination table is provided wherein there is provided a connector or connector assembly for connecting the wheelchair to the examination table. Once connected to the examination table, the wheelchair and patient sitting therein can be elevated, after which side frames of the wheelchair can be removed in order to facilitate examination of the patient. In addition, once elevated and the side frames removed, with the aid of a movable back that forms a part of the examination table, the back of the wheelchair can be reclined or positioned in various positions to facilitate examination and procedures.
US07774872B2 Fold down loft bed with modular furniture
A loft bed includes a framework including head and foot portions, each having front and back upstanding posts and connector members therebetween. Each portion includes a connector member defining a roller guide channel, each channel extending substantially between respective upstanding posts of the head and foot portions. Each front upstanding post defines a pin guide channel extending vertically therealong between upper and lower guide channel ends. An upper bed frame includes opposed end rails with opposed side rails extending therebetween. A pair of rollers is attached to the end rails of the upper bed frame and receivable in the roller guide channels. A pair of pins is attached to respective ends of the bed frame for receipt in the pin guide channels. Movement of the roller and pins in the channels enables movement of the bed frame between a sleep configuration and selectable folded out configurations.
US07774870B2 Elongated suction outlet assembly with intrinsically safe sump
An elongated suction outlet assembly is provided for use in swimming pools, hot tubs and the like. The suction outlet assembly includes an elongated sump having at least one longitudinal, raised island extending upwardly from inside the sump, and an elongated cover engaging the sump. Safety features of the suction outlet assembly are designed to inhibit human entrapment and thereby reduce the related risk of serious injury or death. The cover is long enough to prevent a bather's body from covering and blocking all of the openings therein, and thereby avoids the creation of a dangerous entrapping force. In the event the cover becomes separated from the sump, the raised island(s) provides a back-up safety feature by preventing a bather's access to the suction outlet nozzle via narrow axial flow channels, thereby virtually eliminating the risk of limb entrapment.
US07774869B2 Portable toilet seat cover
A protective toilet seat cover, particularly, but not by way of limitation, provides sanitary protection having a portion to overhang a side of a toilet and a forward bowl flap to hang down along the forward inside portion of a toilet bowl. A toilet seat cover made of a paper material is oversized to cover a toilet seat. Adhesive material may also be placed on the bottom of the toilet seat cover to prevent slipping on a toilet seat. A rear flap folds to contact a portion of the upper surface of the seat cover thereby forming a pocket. An edge of the rear flap may be provided an adhesive. The pocket may contain toiletries, such as personal wipes. The toilet seat cover may be folded and packaged with a disinfectant wipe, providing a convenient kit package for carrying and use.
US07774868B2 Toilet seat elevator assembly
A toilet seat elevator assembly includes a mounting bracket for connection to a toilet bowl and a seat elevator removably connected to the mounting bracket. The seat elevator has a generally ring-shaped portion for resting on the toilet bowl and a mounting portion with opposing mounting projections. The mounting bracket has a pair of opposing side panels and an elongate slot formed in each side panel. Each elongate slot is adapted for slidably and rotatably receiving the mounting projections of the mounting portion, so that the seat elevator may be slidably and rotatably mounted to the bracket to facilitate installation, adjustment and removal of the seat elevator with respect to the toilet bowl.
US07774864B2 Vest and pocket fastening system
A pocket fastening system for a vest wherein the pocket has a backing plate and a plurality of fasteners positioned on the backing plate for receipt into recesses formed on horizontal webbing strips on the surface of the vest.
US07774863B2 Combination hat-bag
A combination bag-hat contains bag-hat-received matter and comprises a body assembly, a continuous hat-to-bag cinching cord, and a continuous open end-encircling cord. The body assembly comprises a cord-concealing, intermediate fabric layer, and a matter-containing, outer fabric layer. The outer fabric layer comprises opposing pairs of cord-letting apertures. The cinching cord is substantially disposed between the outer and intermediate fabric layers, and extends through the cord-letting apertures for forming opposing cord-linking loops. The outer and intermediate fabric layers conceal, fabric-guide, and frictionally engage the cinching cord during hat-to-bag cinching action. The encircling cord is disposed externally relative to the outer fabric layer and extends through the cord-linking loops. The encircling and cinching cords are tensionable for closing the open end and converting the bag-hat combination from a hat to a bag.
US07779480B2 Identifying dependencies of an application upon a given security context
A technique for identifying dependencies of an application upon a given security context includes monitoring security checks generated by the application. The security checks requiring elevated rights are identified and the state of execution of the application corresponding to the identified security checks may be logged. The security checks requiring elevated rights may be identified by monitoring access checks, monitoring privilege checks, checking user/group identifiers against a list of known identifiers associated with elevated rights, or the like.
US07779475B2 Software-based method for gaining privacy by affecting the screen of a computing device
A method and apparatus for allowing the user of an electronic device to enhance privacy over a display with the use of software, are disclosed. A security window including a translucent graphical effects region may be displayed on the electronic device such that it overlays content the user may choose to protect. The security window allows the protected content to remain discernable for the user of the device yet substantially indiscernible to a person at a further distance and/or greater viewing angle from the screen of the device. One or more security windows, each of which may be of any size, shape, texture, translucency level and any other graphical or behavioral properties may be displayed on the display associated with the electronic device. The user may control the size, shape, texture, translucency level and any other graphical or behavioral properties of the security window and graphical effects region. The user may invoke or terminate a security window with the single click of a button. Security windows may automatically attach to applications in focus, or be attached in response to a user command, and allow uninterrupted usability of those applications.
US07779473B1 Dynamic detection of computer worms
Methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable media for detecting malicious computer code in a host computer (1). A method embodiment of the present invention comprises the steps of determining (32) whether data leaving the host computer (1) is addressed to exit a port (15) of the host computer (1) where outbound executable content normally does not appear; when the data is addressed to exit such a port (15), determining (33) whether a string (24) from a pre-established runtime database (9) of executable threads is present in said data; and when a string (24) from said runtime database (9) is present in said data, declaring (34) a suspicion of presence of malicious computer code in said data.
US07779471B2 Method and system for preventing DOS attacks
A method, system and apparatus for preventing Denial of Service (DOS) attacks on a device are provided. The method includes determining that the device is receiving DOS attack vectors. The method further includes identifying the attack vector with the highest idle time and removing the identified attack vector. Further, the method includes repeating identifying and removing the identified attack vector until the number of attack vectors falls below a threshold value.
US07779463B2 Systems and methods for correlating and distributing intrusion alert information among collaborating computer systems
Systems and methods for correlating and distributing intrusion alert information among collaborating computer systems are provided. These systems and methods provide an alert correlator and an alert distributor that enable early signs of an attack to be detected and rapidly disseminated to collaborating systems. The alert correlator utilizes data structures to correlate alert detections and provide a mechanism through which threat information can be revealed to other collaborating systems. The alert distributor uses an efficient technique to group collaborating systems and then pass data between certain members of those groups according to a schedule. In this way data can be routinely distributed without generating excess traffic loads.
US07779459B2 Method and apparatus for implementing a layer 3/layer 7 firewall in an L2 device
Methods and apparatus for transferring packets in a packet switched communication system. A system is provided that includes an L2 device including a controller determining for each packet received whether the received packet is to be inspected, an inspection device operable to inspect and filter packets identified by the controller including using a zone specific policy and an L2 controller for transferring inspected packets in accordance with L2 header information using L2 protocols.
US07779458B1 Situation aware mobile location ad hoc firewall
The present invention is a wireless communication system and method. In an exemplary embodiment, the wireless communication system includes a destination system and a source network. The source network provides network services to the destination system. Further, a plurality of mobile nodes are communicatively coupled with each other for allowing data packets to be transferred between the source network and the destination system. In addition, at least one firewall is communicatively coupled with the destination system and at least one of the mobile nodes included within the plurality of mobile nodes for monitoring data packet exchange between the source network and the destination system. The at least one firewall utilizes at least location as a controlling parameter for regulating data packet exchange as the at least one mobile end node moves into areas associated with varying degrees of threat.
US07779457B2 Identity verification system
An electronic system is provided to confirm the identity of an individual or customer. The confirmation process permits businesses and other entities to access a preapproved list of authorize customers for purposes of preventing identity theft or fraud. Biometric data obtained from the person of the customer is compared against an authorized version of customer biometric data for this purpose. Even if an individual customer is not an authorized customer, the biometric data may be compared to a known fraud database to see if this individual has perpetrated past instances of fraud.
US07779455B2 Procedure for monitoring the usage of a broadcasted content
Method for monitoring the usage of a service by a communication device coupled to a tamper resistant module, in particular a smart card. A said service is transmitted from a resource able to communicate with said communication device by way of a network. The service comprises a plurality of encrypted data flow and its use comprises successive decryption steps of data flow by a respective first key EK, said first key EK being encrypted in the data flow and decrypted in the tamper resistant module by way of a second key KEK stored in said tamper resistant module or derived inside said module. The invention is characterized in that said method comprises the following steps: a. A counting step, in which a memory location stores a count of occurrences of decryption steps of said first key EK attached to a same service; b. A using step, in which said counter is used to prove the amount of data flow which has been decrypted.
US07779454B2 System and method for virtualized hypervisor to detect insertion of removable media
A system and method for using a client-side hypervisor in conjunction with a secure network-side monitoring mechanism to detect removable media insertions since a client's last network session with the secure network is presented. The hypervisor uses a “client-side insertion value” to track the number of times that a user inserts removable media into a socket located on the client. When the client is connected to the secure network, the client's hypervisor notifies the secure network of each insertion and the secure network increments a “secure network-side tracker value.” For each login request, the client includes the client-side insertion value, which the secure network compares against its secure network-side tracker value. When the two values are different, the secure network sends an action request to the client, such as a request to perform a full system scan. Once the client performs the action, the client's hypervisor resets its client-side insertion value and attempts to logon to the secure network again.
US07779453B2 Routing method and system
A routing method and system. The method includes receiving by a computing system data associated with a business. The data includes a first list of authorization roles and a second list including locations. The computing system associates at least one authorization role of the authorization roles with each location of the locations. The computing system receives transaction documents associated with the business. The computing system receives a selection for a location of the locations. The computing system receives a selection for a transaction document of the transaction documents. The transaction document is associated with a specified authorization role of the authorization roles. The computing system determines if the specified authorization role is associated with the location.
US07779450B2 Information processing system, information processing apparatus and method, program, and recording medium
The present invention is intended to surely provide optimum information to users. A PK (Personal Key) stores PMDs (Personal Meta Data) that provide the information about each user. Of these PMDs, only those permitted for provision to a service system are transmitted to the service system by means of the quasi electrostatic field communication that is controlled by the range between the body of each user and an antenna. The service system receives the PMDs transmitted from the PK through the quasi electrostatic field communication. Further, on the basis of the received PMDs, the service system gets, from a content database, the content to be provided to each user and displays the obtained content onto an output device, thereby providing the content to each user. The present invention is applicable to a situated information presentation system, for example.
US07779444B2 System and method for video on request
A video on request (“VOR”) system is disclosed. The VOR system includes a producer having a location device for providing location data and a video recording device. The VOR system also includes an information exchange having a producer database configured to store a producer profile having current location and status of the producer. The current location and status are continually updated based on the location data. The VOR system also includes a viewer having access to the information exchange to search the producer database for available producers within a predetermined range of a desired location. Upon finding the available producer at the desired location, the viewer requests an information segment to be produced by the producer from the desired location. The producer thereafter records the information segment and transmits the information segment to the viewer.