Document Document Title
US07776354B2 Remedies for glomerular diseases
The present invention relates to a preventive or therapeutic agent for a glomerular disease which comprises an anti-thrombocytic agent and an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor as active ingredients.The above agent is useful for prevention and therapy of various glomerular diseases including chronic glomerular nephritis.
US07776346B2 Personal product compositions comprising structured benefit agent premix or delivery vehicle
The present invention relates to compositions comprising a structured benefit agent pre-mix or delivery vehicle comprising benefit agent structured with crystalline materials, as defined, which when separately prepared and combined after preparation, provides enhanced delivery of benefit agent to a carrying composition into which the premix is added.
US07776345B2 Gastric retention controlled drug delivery system
The present invention provides a gastric retention controlled drug delivery system comprising: (a) a controlled release core comprising a drug, a highly swellable polymer and a gas generating agent, said core being capable of swelling and achieving floatation rapidly while maintaining its physical integrity in gastrointestinal fluids for prolonged periods, and (b) a rapidly releasing coat composition comprising the same drug as in the core and pharmaceutically acceptable excipients, wherein the coating composition surrounds the core such that the system provides a biphasic release of the drug in gastrointestinal fluids.
US07776343B1 Immunogenic complexes and methods relating thereto
The present invention relates generally to an immunogenic complex comprising a charged organic carrier and a charged antigen and, more particularly, a negatively charged organic carrier and a positively charged antigen. The complexes of the present invention are useful, inter alia, as therapeutic and/or prophylactic agents for facilitating the induction of a cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response to an antigen.
US07776341B2 Biomarkers of tuberculosis that distinguish disease categories: use as serodiagnostic antigens
Mycobacterial proteins from culture filtrate or cytosol are disclosed as being useful B cell antigens for early diagnosis of mycobacterial disease, particularly in humans. These proteins include four that had not previously been recognized as B cell antigens (LppZ protein encoded by Mtb gene Rv3006; SodC protein encoded by Mtb gene Rv0432; BfrB protein encoded by Mtb gene Rv3841 and TrxC protein encoded by Mtb gene Rv3914). Antigenic compositions include these proteins and/or peptide fragments thereof, in various combinations with each other or with one or more of a set of 10 additional Mtb proteins known to be antigens (in particular early antigens. Methods and kits for using these antigenic composition for early diagnosis of mycobacterial infection and disease are also disclosed.
US07776340B2 Canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCV) spike protein, polymerase and hemagglutinin/esterase
A canine respiratory coronavirus (CRCV) that is present in the respiratory tract of dogs with canine infectious respiratory disease and which has a low level of homology to the enteric canine coronavirus, but which has a high level of homology to all bovine coronavirus strains (eg Quebec and LY138) and human coronavirus strain OC43. The CRCV spike, polymerase and hemagglutinin/esterase cDNA and protein partial sequences are listed in FIGS. (1) to (4), (13) and (14). ctcagatgaa tttgaaatat gctattagtg ctaagaatag agcccgcact gttgctggtg  60 tttccatact tagtactatg actggcagaa tgtttcatca aaaatgtttg aaaagtatag 120 cagctacacg tggtgttcct gttgttatag gcaccactaa attttatggc ggctgggatg 180 atatgttacg tcgccttatt aaagatgttg acaatcctgt acttatgggt tgggattatc 240 ctaagtgtga250
US07776337B2 Bacteriocins and novel bacterial strains
Novel bacteriocins and/or the novel lactic acid-producing strains are used for at least reducing the levels of colonization by at least one target bacteria in animals, especially poultry.
US07776335B2 Proteinase K resistant surface protein of Neisseria meningitidis
The identification of a highly conserved, immunologically accessible antigen at the surface of Neisseria facilitates treatment, prophylaxis, and diagnosis of Neisseria diseases. This antigen is highly resistant to Proteinase K and has an apparent molecular weight of 22 kDa on SDS-PAGE. Specific polynucleotides encoding proteins of this class have been isolated from three Neisseria meningitidis strains and from one Neisseria gonorrhoeae strain. These polynucleotides have been sequenced, and the corresponding full-length amino acid sequences of the encoded polypeptides have been deduced. Recombinant DNA methods for the production of the Neisseria surface protein, and antibodies that bind to this protein are also disclosed.
US07776333B2 Protein, a genes encoding therefor and a method of using the same
An object of the present invention is to search and identify novel antifungal proteins capable of inhibiting the growth of plant pathogenic microorganisms including Magnaporthe grisea and Rhizoctonia solani causing two major rice diseases at relatively low concentrations, and further to clone a gene for said protein. The present invention provides an antifungal protein which can be obtained from fraction(s) precipitated by ammonium sulfate precipitation using an aqueous extract from Pleurotus cornucopiae, wherein said protein has an antifungal activity against at least rice blast, and exhibits existence of a component having a molecular weight of about 15 kDa as determined by SDS-PAGE method; a gene encoding said protein and uses thereof.
US07776330B2 Humanized anti-CEA T84.66 antibody and uses thereof
Embodiments of the present invention utilize a more efficient CDR grafting technique to generate humanized versions of the T84.66 antibody. The technique used to generate these antibodies utilizes crystallographic structural data to select an immunoglobulin framework having maximum structural overlap with a non-human donor molecule. This technique was used to develop humanized T84.66 antibodies exhibiting in vitro binding affinity and specificity for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) nearly identical to that of T84.66 and the ability to specifically target tumors expressing CEA in vivo.
US07776323B2 Streptococcus suis vaccines and diagnostic tests
The invention relates to Streptococcus suis infection in pigs, vaccines directed against those infections and tests for diagnosing Streptococcus suis infections. The invention provides an isolated or recombinant nucleic acid encoding a capsular gene cluster of Streptococcus suis or a gene or gene fragment derived thereof. The invention further provides a nucleic acid probe or primer allowing species or serotype-specific detection of Streptococcus suis. The invention also provides a Streptococcus suis antigen and vaccine derived thereof.
US07776322B2 Modified viral vector particles
This invention relates to viral vector particles, including capsid proteins with an attachment site for the specific chemical modification of the vector particles. Furthermore, the invention relates to procedures for the production of these viral vector particles. Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of these viral vector particles as a therapeutic, prophylactic or diagnostic means in humans and primates as well as other vertebrates like cattle, pigs, birds, fish, or rodents.
US07776321B2 Mutable vaccines
The invention relates to methods and materials useful for targeting antigenic determinants of mutable pathogens for somatic hypermutation. These methods and materials can be used to induce an immune response against antigenic variants of mutable pathogens.
US07776317B2 Glycerol ether mixture, cosmetic composition containing this mixture and process for its production
The invention relates to a glycerol ether mixture which consists essentially of a) at least one C12-22 glycerol monoalkyl ether, b) at least one C12-22 glycerol dialkylether and optionally c) at least one C12-22 glycerol trialkyl ether and/or d) at least one C12-22 fatty alcohol, components a) and b) together making up at least 50% by weight of the glycerol ether mixture and the ratio by weight of component a) to component b) being in the range from 3:1 to 1:2. The invention also relates to a process for producing the glycerol ether mixture and to cosmetic compositions containing the glycerol ether mixture.
US07776315B2 Pharmaceutical compositions based on anticholinergics and additional active ingredients
A pharmaceutical composition comprising an anticholinergic and at least one additional active ingredient selected from among corticosteroids, dopamine agonistes, PDE-IV inhibitors, NK1-antagonists, endothelin antagonists, antihistamines, and EGFR-kinase inhibitors, processes for preparing them and their use in the treatment of respiratory diseases.
US07776314B2 Abuse-proofed dosage system
The invention relates to a solid administration form, protected from parenteral abuse and containing at least one viscosity-increasing agent in addition to one or more active substances that have parenteral abuse potential. The agent forms, when a necessary minimum amount of an aqueous liquid is added, on the basis of an extract obtained from the administration form, a preferably injectable gel that remains visually distinct when introduced into another quantity of an aqueous liquid.
US07776310B2 Flexible and/or elastic brachytherapy seed or strand
A flexible or elastic brachytherapy strand that includes an imaging marker and/or a therapeutic, diagnostic or prophylactic agent such as a drug in a biocompatible carrier that can be delivered to a subject upon implantation into the subject through the bore of a brachytherapy implantation needle has been developed. Strands can be formed as chains or continuous arrays of seeds up to 50 centimeters or more, with or without spacer material, flaccid, rigid, or flexible.
US07776309B2 Preparation and use of alkylating agents
Methods of alkylating target compounds are disclosed. The alkylating agent can be radiolabelled. In some instances, the alkylating agent is synthesized and then reacted with a target compound without an intervening purification step. The method comprises a) synthesizing an alkylating agent having the formula: X—(CR1R2)aCR3R4-LG wherein, a is 0, 1, 2 or 3, R1, R2, R3 and R4 are independently H, X or alkyl, X is a halogen or a label, with the proviso that at least one X is a halogen, LG is a leaving group; and b) directly reacting said alkylating agent with a target compound comprising an alkylation reactive group under conditions suitable for the alkylation of said target compound.
US07776305B2 Method for purification of nitrogen oxide and apparatus for purification of nitrogen oxide
A nitrogen oxide purifying apparatus includes a gas absorption vessel (1) and a condenser (6), where the vessel receives an absorption solution containing liquefied N2O4 for absorbing NO and also receives a source gas to vary the temperature and/or pressure of the source gas and the absorption solution, while the condenser receives a gas from the gas absorption vessel (1) to vary the temperature and/or pressure of the gas. In the gas absorption vessel (1), the absorption solution containing liquefied N2O4 may be applied to the source gas containing NO, so that NO is absorbed in the absorption solution. Then the absorption-solution is heated and/or depressurized to generate an intermediate gas containing a relatively large amount of NO and a smaller amount of NO2 from the absorption solution. In the condenser (6), the intermediate gas is cooled and/or pressurized to give condensed N2O3 and/or condensed N2O4.
US07776302B1 Fluorine extraction systems and associated processes
Fluorine extraction systems and associated processes are described herein. In one embodiment, a fluorine extraction process can include loading a mixture containing a uranium fluoride (UxFy, where x and y are integers) and an oxidizing agent into a reaction vessel. The reaction vessel has a closed bottom section and an opening spaced apart from the bottom section. The fluorine extraction process can also include heating the mixture containing uranium fluoride and the oxidizing agent in the reaction vessel, forming at least one uranium dioxide and a non-radioactive gas product from the heated mixture, and controlling a depth of the mixture in the reaction vessel to achieve a desired reaction yield of the non-radioactive gas product.
US07776301B2 Reducing mercury emissions from the burning of coal
Calcium bromide is a component of sorbent compositions that can be added on to coal to reduce the amount of sulfur gases released into the atmosphere from a coal burning facility. The sorbent components are added onto coal before the coal is added into the furnace and combusted. The fuel being burned is any fuel that contains sulfur, such as lignite, bituminous, and anthracite coal. The sorbent can contain other components such as silica, alumina, cement kiln dust, lime kiln dust, Portland cement, and aluminosilicate clay. Sulfur emissions are monitored during combustion of the fuel, and the rate of sorbent addition can be changed or a adjusted based on the monitored sulfur levels.
US07776293B2 Low-temperature, moving bed catalytic reactor for control of NOx emissions from combustion
An apparatus for low-temperature NOx-reduction is disclosed, which is useful in boiler installations used at electric-generating plants. The apparatus employs one or a plurality of moving-bed reactors wherein a moving bed of common base-metal catalyst is used for selective catalytic reduction of NOx present in flue gas. The moving bed permits continuous introduction of fresh or regenerated catalyst, thus obviating the conventional problems of sulfur-poisoning and consequent reduction in catalytic activity with such catalysts. Due to the lower activation energies of such catalysts, an SCR utilizing the moving-bed reactors disclosed herein can be located downstream of the air heater, further improving electric-generating efficiency. Methods for low-temperature NOx reduction are also disclosed.
US07776292B2 Method and apparatus for bioweapon decontamination
The present disclosure relates to the decontamination of articles contaminated (or thought to be contaminated) with bioweapons, such as methods and apparatus for decontaminating articles contaminated with sporualated bioweapons. In some embodiments, the methods are methods of decontaminating an environment, for example a room or building contaminated with a bioweapon.
US07776291B2 Apparatus for treating allograft products
There are disclosed systems and methods of delivering sterile fluids aseptically to a sealed canister. In an embodiment, a includes a canister having an inlet, a vent, and a drain outlet, a reagent manifold in communication with the inlet, a bubbler in communication with the vent, and a fluid communicator from the drain outlet. In another embodiment, a method includes providing a canister having an inlet, a vent, and a drain outlet; selectively providing reagents to the canister from a reagent manifold in communication with the inlet, allowing excess gasses to leave the canister with a bubbler in communication with the vent, and selectively purging the reagents from the canister through the drain outlet. Other embodiments are also disclosed.
US07776290B2 Container for a multi-component reaction
The invention relates to a container (10) for a multi-component reaction, having at least two chemical chambers (20) and at least one mixing space, the container (10) being formed from a base film (40) provided with recesses (30) and an upper film (50), which is optionally structured, the upper film (50) being joined, especially sealed, to the base film (40), at least over sections. The invention relates also to a method of filling such a container.
US07776288B2 Charging device for a tubular reactor
A charging device for a tubular reactor has metering chambers which can be filled with filling material, such as, for example, catalytically coated carrier material, it being possible for a respective tube of the tubular reactor to be filled via a feed device which adjoins the metering chamber. The metering chamber has a sloping surface and an opposing surface for supporting the filling material, which run at an angle to one another.
US07776285B2 Reactor and process for carrying out endothermic or exothermic catalytic reaction
A heat exchange reactor for carrying out endothermic or exothermic reactions comprising: a housing defining an external reactor wall (1), a plurality of heat transfer tubes (2) arranged within said housing for the supply or removal of heat in catalyst beds (3, 3′) disposed at least outside (3) said heat transfer tubes (2), and built-in elements (4) disposed in the outer periphery of said catalyst bed (3).
US07776282B2 Exhaust gas cleaning apparatus and retaining seal member
The present invention discloses a retaining seal member including a sheet material formed of an inorganic fiber. The sheet material has a protruding part on one end and a notch part on the other end. The protruding part and the notch part are engageable with each other. The protruding part includes a corner area having a rounded distal end. The notch part includes a side area having a rounded distal end.
US07776281B2 Substrates with small metal oxide particle coatings
A substrate having a coating of small size metal oxide particles, <5 microns and more particularly <3 microns, formed on the substrate surface and a micro-component reaction chamber assembly including such a substrate in which the substrate is produced by thermally spraying, plasma spraying, or flame spraying a homogenous particle composition of selected hydroxide, carbonate, nitrate and hydroxide compositions onto the surface of the metal substrate.
US07776280B2 Method and apparatus for selective catalytic reduction of NOx
An apparatus comprises parallel first and second exhaust gas passageways, a urea injection system, a hydrolysis catalyst, and an SCR catalyst. The urea injection system is configured to inject urea into the first exhaust gas passageway. The hydrolysis catalyst is positioned in the first exhaust gas passageway to generate ammonia at least partially from urea injected into the first exhaust gas passageway by the urea injection system. The SCR catalyst is positioned downstream to reduce NOx with the generated ammonia. An associated method is disclosed.
US07776274B2 Cassette and embedding assembly for handling and holding tissue samples during processing, embedding and microtome procedures, staging devices therefore, and methods therefor
The disclosure relates to a cassette, frame and mold for holding a tissue sample during an embedding and mircotoming process, and related methods. The cassette is sectionable in a microtome and includes a body with a bottom wall and a plurality of side walls. First and second side walls are generally V-shaped to present an apex of the “V” to the microtome blade. A lid of the cassette is stiffer than the bottom wall of the cassette to assist with positioning the tissue sample. The side walls of the cassette are perforated so as to significantly reduce the amount of cassette material that must be cut by the microtome blade. In one embodiment, to additionally reduce blade wear the ribs on one side wall are offset lengthwise relative to the ribs on an opposite side wall. An upper flange of the cassette includes depressions configured to register with detents in the frame.
US07776271B2 Clinical specimen processing apparatus and clinical specimen processing system
A clinical specimen processing apparatus that includes: a preparation device that is configured to conduct operations to perform predetermined processing of clinical specimen; a controller in communication with the preparation device, wherein the controller is configured to detect an operating condition of the preparation device which performs the predetermined processing; a central processing unit that is configured to: 1) compare a detection value detected by the controller to a first threshold value and a second threshold value; and 2) determine whether or not the preparation device is in any one of three condition stages.
US07776270B2 Resealer of test tubes for clinical analyses fed from ready-to-use containers of sealing tape
The invention relates to an automatic machine designed to reseal test tubes for clinical analyses with aluminum sealing tape housed in ready-to-use, cassette-type containers. The machine uses a heat-sealing process to apply a piece of aluminum foil, which will form the cap, over the mouth of the test tube, causing it to adhere to the edge of the test tube itself to achieve perfect resealing.
US07776268B2 User interface for a fluidic system of a flow cytometer
The fluidic system of the preferred embodiment includes a sheath pump to pump sheath fluid from a sheath container into an interrogation zone and a waste pump to pump waste fluid from the interrogation zone into a waste container. The sheath pump and/or the waste pump draw sample fluid from a sample container into the interrogation zone. The fluidic system also includes a controller to adjust the flow rate of the sample fluid from the sample container into the interrogation zone. The fluidic system is preferably incorporated into a flow cytometer with a flow cell that includes the interrogation zone.
US07776262B1 Waste processing
Disinfection of waste can be carried out by first cutting the waste into small pieces to expose surfaces in the waste and then simultaneously spraying the waste pieces with disinfectant and agitating them. The waste pieces are agitated by applying sufficient vacuum to suck the waste pieces through a processing system, the vacuum creating a wind inside the system that sweeps up the waste pieces, suspends them in air, and keeps them separate from one another, thereby exposing substantially all surfaces of the waste pieces to the sprayed disinfectant.
US07776261B2 Aqueous solution for the chemical sterilization of packaging materials, process for its preparation and its use
Aqueous solution suitable for the chemical sterilization of packaging materials, process for its preparation and its use Aqueous solution suitable for the chemical sterilization of packaging materials, comprising hydrogen peroxide and at least one foodstuff-compatible stabilizer. This solution but without the stabilizer has a maximum phosphorous content expressed as PO43 —of 10 mg/kg, and present a dry residue at 105° C. of at most 10 mg/kg. The same solution can be used as dip bath liquid in dip bath aseptic packaging processes and as well as spraying liquid in spray aseptic packaging processes.
US07776260B2 Apparatus and method for the irradiation of radiation sensitive materials
An apparatus for the irradiation of a radiation sensitive material. The apparatus includes at least one thermally conductive tank for containing a heat transfer medium therein, said at least one thermally conductive tank having a first wall and a second wall in a parallel spaced relationship, said second wall having an outer surface for placing a radiation sensitive material thereon. Also disclosed is a system and method of irradiating a radiation sensitive material.
US07776259B2 High-strength high-temperature creep-resistant iron-cobalt alloys for soft magnetic applications
A high strength and creep resistant soft magnetic Fe—Co alloy includes, in weight %, Fe and Co such that the difference between the Fe and Co is at least 2%, at least 35% Co, and 2.5%≦(V+Mo+Nb), wherein 0.4%≦Mo and/or 0.4%≦Nb. This alloy can further include B, C, W, Ni, Ti, Cr, Mn and/or Al. A vanadium-free high strength soft magnetic Fe—Co alloy includes in weight %, Fe and Co such that the difference between the Fe and Co is at least 2%, and at least 15% Co, the alloy further satisfying (0.1%≦Nb and 0.1%≦W) or 0.25%≦Mn. This alloy can further include B, C, Ni, Ti, Cr and/or Al.
US07776256B2 Earth-boring rotary drill bits and methods of manufacturing earth-boring rotary drill bits having particle-matrix composite bit bodies
Methods of forming bit bodies for earth-boring bits include assembling green components, brown components, or fully sintered components, and sintering the assembled components. Other methods include isostatically pressing a powder to form a green body substantially composed of a particle-matrix composite material, and sintering the green body to provide a bit body having a desired final density. Methods of forming earth-boring bits include providing a bit body substantially formed of a particle-matrix composite material and attaching a shank to the body. The body is provided by pressing a powder to form a green body and sintering the green body. Earth-boring bits include a unitary structure substantially formed of a particle-matrix composite material. The unitary structure includes a first region configured to carry cutters and a second region that includes a threaded pin. Earth-boring bits include a shank attached directly to a body substantially formed of a particle-matrix composite material.
US07776255B1 Hollow shell and method of manufacture
Hollow metal and/or metal alloy articles are fabricated by the reduction of metal containing compounds, particularly non-metallic metal compounds.
US07776250B2 Imprinted polymer support
There is disclosed an imprinted polymer support for solid phase organic synthesis (SPOS). The polymer support being obtainable from a method that comprises providing a substrate and a mold, the mold having a defined surface pattern. A composition is placed between the defined surface pattern of the mold and the substrate. The composition comprises a polymerisation medium with at least one functional monomer and a free radical initiator. The composition is polymerised to form an array of polymer imprints adhered to the substrate.
US07776242B2 Method for granulating flexible polyolefin resin and granule
A method for granulating a flexible polyolefin resin including: melting a flexible polyolefin resin by volatilization after polymerization; cooling the resin to a temperature in a range of the melting point of the resin (Tm-D) ±50° C.; and granulating the cooled resin by an underwater granulation method; the underwater granulation method using cooling water of 30° C. or less in which an antifusion agent is added.
US07776241B2 Method and apparatus for producing micro particles
The invention relates to a method and apparatus for producing substantially monodisperse micro particles mainly of heat sensible material using a carrier gas and a drying gas. Relatively dense micro particles with diameters in the range 1-120 μm with a very narrow span can be obtained.
US07776237B2 Polymer dispersion with a colour effect
Process for improving the brilliance of color and the stability of a colored polymer system, which is composed of a matrix and of discrete polymer particles distributed in accordance with a defined spatial lattice structure in the matrix, and which is obtained by filming of an emulsion polymer with core/shell structure, which comprises using an emulsion polymer obtainable by polymerizing monomers in at least one first stage (core monomers), then polymerizing monomers in at least one further, second stage (transition stage), and finally polymerizing monomers in a third stage (shell monomers), where, based on the percentage constitution of the monomer mixtures of the three stages, at most 30% by weight of the monomers of the first stage are identical with those of the third stage, and 5% of the monomers of the second stage are identical with, respectively, those of the first and those of the third stage, and not more than 60% by weight of the monomers of the 2nd stage here are monomers absent in the 1st stage and also absent in the 3rd stage.
US07776231B2 Chemical mechanical polishing slurries, their applications and method of use thereof
This invention disclosed a chemical mechanical polishing slurry, which includes at least one abrasive particle, an oxidant and a carrier. The oxidant is combined with a big metallorganic compound; and the applications and corresponding handling method are also disclosed. This invention slurry can realize high removal rate, no corrosion, low defectivity and high plan.
US07776229B2 Glass substrate provided with transparent electrodes and process for its production
An object is to provide a process for producing a glass substrate provided with transparent electrodes, whereby in the case of producing a glass substrate provided with transparent electrodes by a laser patterning method, no scratches are formed on the surface of the glass substrate, the resistance value of the formed transparent electrodes is not increased, and the surface roughness is not increased. The means to accomplish the object is to provide a process for producing a glass substrate provided with transparent electrodes, which comprises a pattern forming step of applying laser patterning on a glass substrate provided with a transparent conductive film to obtain a glass substrate provided with a thin film pattern, and an etching step of subjecting the glass substrate provided with a thin film pattern to etching treatment by means of an etching solution which dissolves the glass substrate and which has a characteristic such that its speed to dissolve the glass substrate is higher than its speed to dissolve the transparent conductive film.
US07776228B2 Catalyst-aided chemical processing method
A catalyst-aided chemical processing method is a novel processing method having a high processing efficiency and suited for processing in a space wavelength range of not less than several tens of μm. The catalyst-aided chemical processing method comprises: immersing a workpiece in a processing solution in which a halogen-containing molecule is dissolved, said workpiece normally being insoluble in said processing solution; and bringing a platinum, gold or ceramic solid catalyst close to or into contact with a processing surface of the workpiece, thereby processing the workpiece through dissolution in the processing solution of a halogenide produced by chemical reaction between a halogen radical generated at the surface of the catalyst and a surface atom of the workpiece.
US07776220B2 Pre-filled columns for flash chromatography with higher separating efficiency
A column for flash chromatography having spherical, or semi-spherical, and porous silica gel having a granule size between 3 and 45 μm and pores between 30 and 300 Å.
US07776216B1 Floating aquatic plant culture systems and associated methods
A floating plant culture system has improved strength and durability and includes a substantially planar platform having a length along opposed sides thereof and a width along front and back thereof generally perpendicular to the sides. The platform is adapted for growing a culture of attached plants including micro- and macrophytes thereon. Beneath the platform are affixed a plurality of cells extending in bridging relation to the sides and open at each end adjacent the sides. The cells are placeable in fluid communication with a body of water desired to be remediated. Affixed along at least a portion of the sides extend a pair of opposed hollow beams, for providing flotation to the platform. The beams are also placeable in fluid communication with the body of water, and an upper surface of the platform is floodable by the body of water from beneath for submerging plants attached thereto.
US07776214B2 Membrane element
A membrane element in which, after membrane breakage or deterioration, the filtration plate made of a thermoplastic resin can be reused to replace the membrane with a fresh one. The membrane element comprises a filtration plate made of a thermoplastic resin and, bonded to a peripheral smooth surface thereof, a microporous filter membrane which has fine pores formed therein and employs a nonwoven fabric comprising synthetic resin fibers as a support. A hot plate having a shape corresponding to the peripheral shape of the resinous filtration plate is brought into contact with a peripheral smooth surface of the plate so as to form a recessed part in the surface. The temperature of the hot plate is regulated so as to be not higher than the melting point of the nonwoven fabric serving as the support and not lower than the Vicat softening temperature of the filtration plate made of a thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic-resin filtration plate is pressed with this hot plate through the microporous filter membrane to bond it to the membrane.
US07776201B1 Electrochemical regeneration of chemical hydrides
A method for regenerating chemical hydrides from metal oxides and electrochemical cell for use in carrying out the method. The electrochemical cell has a cathode side with molten salt and a cathode, and an anode electrode side with an anode. The cathode side and the anode side are separated by an oxygen anion-conducting membrane. A metal oxide is placed in the molten salt of the cathode side and an electrical potential is applied to the cathode and anode while feeding hydrogen to the cathode electrode to effectuate conversion of the metal oxide to a metal hydride and feeding hydrogen to the anode to generate water and free electrons.
US07776198B2 Method for anodizing objects
A method and apparatus of anodizing a component, preferably aluminum, is disclosed. The component is placed in an electrolyte solution. A number of pulses are applied to the solution and component. Each pulse is formed by a pattern including having three magnitudes. The third magnitude is less, preferably substantially less, than the first and second magnitudes, and all three magnitudes are of the same polarity. The pulse pattern may include alternations between the first and second magnitudes, and following the alternations, the third magnitude. Other patterns may be provided. The solution is in a reaction chamber, along with at least a portion of the component. The fluid enters the reaction chamber from a transport chamber through a plurality of inlets directed toward the component, preferably at an angle of between 60 and 70 degrees. The inlet is preferably the cathode, and the component is the anode, whereby current flows between the cathode and the anode in another embodiment. The inlets are in a side wall such that the fluid enters the reaction chamber substantially horizontally. The reaction chamber has at least one outlet beneath the inlets. The outlet may be in a bottom wall. The fluid follows a return path, such that the fluid returns from the reaction chamber to the transport chamber. The component is held in a mounted position mechanically or pneumatically in various alternatives.
US07776184B2 Arrangement for the treatment of cellulose pulp in a washing apparatus adapted to facilitate service and inspection of the apparatus
The present invention relates to a washing apparatus (2) for washing of cellulose pulp, comprising a rotatable drum (4), a stationary support (6), a discharge device (8) that has an outlet orifice (9), a casing that surround the drum and that forms a longitudinal discharge opening (10) and a conveyer worm (12) arranged below the outlet orifice for reception and removal of washed pulp. The conveyer worm (12) is movably arranged relatively the support (6) between a first position (P1), in which the conveyer worm receives washed pulp during operation, and a second position (P2), in which the outlet orifice (9) is exposed and access to the drum (4) via the outlet orifice is possible for carrying out service, maintenance and inspection of the washing apparatus (2).
US07776182B2 Chlorohydrin and cationic compounds having high affinity for pulp or paper
Selected chlorohydrin and cationic compounds containing nitroxide or hydroxylamine moieties are effective in stabilizing pulp or paper, especially pulp or paper containing lignin, against yellowing and discoloration due to the adverse effects of light. These compounds are added at various points in the paper-making process, especially at the wet ends, making the need for water soluble or water dispersible materials having high affinity for pulp or paper essential. This performance is often further enhanced by the presence of one or more coadditives selected from the group consisting of the UV absorbers, the polymeric inhibitors, the nitrones, the fluorescent whitening agents and metal chelating agents. Combinations of hydroxylamines or their salts, benzotriazole or benzophenone UV absorbers and a metal chelating agent are particularly effective.
US07776181B2 Retention improving composition
A novel retention aid is provided, which can realizes not only high retention but also excellent paper formation and is easy to use, in various papermaking processes. A composition for improving retention is provided, which comprises (A) a cationic water-soluble polymer and (B) an amphoteric water-soluble polymer. The component (A) preferably is a copolymer having a cation equivalent of 0.05 to 4.00 meq/g or one having a 0.5% salted viscosity of 30 to 200 mPa·s. The component (B) preferably is either a copolymer comprising a cationic radical-polymerizable monomer unit, an anionic radical-polymerizable monomer unit, and a nonionic radical-polymerizable monomer unit, or an amphoteric water-soluble polymer obtained by polymerizing a cationic radical-polymerizable monomer with an anionic radical-polymerizable monomer in the presence of a polysaccharide. From the standpoint of attaining excellent formation, the component (B) preferably has a molar proportion of the cationic radical-polymerizable monomer unit to the anionic radical-polymerizable monomer unit (hereinafter referred to as Ca/An) satisfying Ca/An<1.2.
US07776179B2 Fire-retardant, method for manufacturing fire-retardant cellulose-based
The present invention imparts fire-retardancy upon cellulosic products utilizing a cost-effective, non-toxic, and reliable process. Unlike previous methods which impart superficial fire-retardant coatings upon finished products, the present process treats the individual cellulosic particles (i.e. fibers, chips etc.) that make up cellulose-based particle products. Treating the individual particles provides fire-retardancy throughout the entire length and width of the product. This full-depth retardancy provides superior protection, especially in catastrophic fires where the surface coat of other products can be compromised.
US07776178B2 Suspension for showerhead in process chamber
Stress within a suspension wall for suspending a showerhead in a process chamber is ameliorated by one or more of: (1) Openings in the suspension wall that reduce exposure of the suspension wall to process gas or ambient atmosphere when the chamber lid is opened. (2) A substantially vertical arrangement of one or more rifts in the suspension wall which facilitate horizontal buckling or flexing of the suspension wall. (3) A plurality of suspension walls whose respective central portions are coplanar. (4) A gas sealing skirt that helps protect the suspension wall from direct contact with process gas. The gas sealing skirt is connected to either the chamber wall or the showerhead but is not connected to both.
US07776172B2 Web joining apparatus and method
A web joining apparatus and related method. The apparatus includes a turret arm which supports an old roll and a new roll around which band-state flexible support bodies are wound, a front pasting drum including a holding device holding the tip end of the band-state flexible support body of the new roll and a cutting drum provided with a cutting member with substantially the same length as the width of the band-state flexible support body. A projection amount is set so that only a single sheet of the band-state flexible support body can be cut off. The flexible support body of the old roll is cut off and the tail end of the flexible support body of the old roll and the tip end of the flexible support body of the new roll are joined as the band-state flexible support body is conveyed.
US07776169B2 Water-based synthesis of poly(tetrazoles) and articles formed therefrom
A polyvinyl(tetrazole) is formed by a water-based method. A gas generating composition 12 containing the polyvinyl(tetrazole) is contained within an exemplary gas generator 10. An article or gas generating system 200 incorporates the polyvinyl(tetrazole) therein. A vehicle occupant protection system 180 incorporates the gas generating system 200. An article or substrate 300 containing a coating 302 formed from the product of the water-based method is also described.
US07776167B2 Edge-on stress-relief of aluminum plates
In accordance with the present invention, there are provided methods for the manufacture of aluminum alloy plates having reduced levels of residual stress as well as plates and products employing such plates. Processes of the present invention involve providing a solution heat-treated and quenched aluminum alloy plate with a thickness of at least 5 inches, and stress relieving the plate by performing at least one compressing step at a total rate of 0.5 to 5% permanent set along the longest or second longest edge of the plate. In the method, the dimension of the plate where the compression step is performed is along the longest or second longest edge of the plate, which is preferably no less than twice and no more than eight times the thickness of the plate. In further accordance with the present invention, there are provided stress-relieved alloys and plates that are provided with superior Wtot properties as well as reduced residual stress and heterogeneity values.
US07776166B2 Texture and grain size controlled hollow cathode magnetron targets and method of manufacture
The present invention relates to methods for improving deposited film uniformity and controlling the erosion of sputter targets. Improved methods for achieving predetermined microstructure orientation in copper hollow cathode magnetron (HCM) sputter targets and targets prepared by such methods are disclosed.
US07776162B2 Steels with few alumina clusters
A steel having few alumina clusters prepared by casting liquid steel deoxidized with Al, with the addition of one or more rare-earth metals (REM) selected from the group of Ce, La, Pr and Nd in which: (a) The REM-oxide-content in oxide-based inclusions consisting mainly of alumina and REM-oxides is 0.5 to 15 mass % of said oxide-based inclusions, or (b) The mass ratio of total REM to total oxygen (T.O.), REM/T.O., in liquid steel is not less than 0.05 and not more than 0.5, in addition to (a), or (c) The total REM-content is not less than 0.1 ppm and less than 10 ppm and the dissolved-REM-content is less than 1 ppm.
US07776160B2 Method of producing a cold temperature high toughness structural steel tubing
An apparatus (10) includes a low-carbon steel tube (24). The low-carbon steel tube (24) yields plastically more than about 5% before fracturing at temperatures down to about −40° C. when stress is applied to the low-carbon steel tube sufficient to cause the low carbon steel tube to so yield.
US07776158B2 Floor cleaning and care compositions
Aqueous floor cleaning and/or care composition, containing, based on the total composition, at least 3% by weight of a nonionic surfactant of formula I: wherein R1 represents hydrogen or an alkyl radical having 1 to 18 C atoms, and R2, independently of R1, represents hydrogen or an alkyl radical having 1 to 18 C atoms, and the sum of the C atoms present overall in R1 and R2 is between 6 and 18, and R3 represents an alkyl radical having 4 to 18 C atoms, and R4 hydrogen or an alkyl radical having 1 to 6 C atoms and n is a number from 1 to 30 and m a number from 0 to 5.
US07776157B2 Simplified device for cleaning an object
A cleaning device comprising an enclosure, a cover allowing it to be opened in order to place an object to be cleaned within the enclosure, a supply of cleaning fluid, the enclosure comprising a piston that can move thanks to a motor, a geometry allowing a contact with an external fluid reservoir when the piston occupies a certain position within the enclosure in order to generate a sudden release of pressure, the device comprising an outlet valve remaining closed when the piston increases the volume of the enclosure so as to cause the pressure reduction within the enclosures.
US07776156B2 Side RF coil and side heater for plasma processing apparatus
A RF plasma generation and temperature control system for an inductively coupled plasma process chamber. The plasma generation system includes a heater that includes an elongated upper heating element substantially parallel to an elongated lower heating element, where the upper and lower heating elements are joined by one or more posts substantially perpendicular to the upper and lower heating elements. The system also including one or more RF coils featuring a crease at points of overlap with the posts. Also, a RF plasma generation system for an inductively coupled plasma process chamber, where the plasma generation system includes a heater thermally coupled to the chamber, and one or more RF coils coupled to the chamber, where the RF coils include a hollow tube having at least one flat side.
US07776155B2 Surface modified quartz glass crucible and its modification process
A surface modified quartz glass crucible and a process for modifying the crucible includes a layer of a metal oxide on the whole or a part of the inside and/or outside of the crucible, and baking it. At least an inside surface of the crucible is coated with a said metal oxide of magnesium, calcium, strontium or barium. The coated layer of the crucible does not abrade easily and provides a high dislocation free ratio of silicon single crystals pulled by using the crucible.
US07776152B2 Method for continuous, in situ evaluation of entire wafers for macroscopic features during epitaxial growth
Apparatus and method for growing and observing the growth of epitaxial layers on a wafer. The apparatus includes: epitaxial growth apparatus; a source of light mounted to illuminate an entire surface of the wafer in the apparatus during growth of the epitaxial layer on the entire surface of the wafer; and apparatus for observing scattering of the light from the entire surface of the wafer during growth of the epitaxial layer on the entire surface of the wafer. The method includes growing the epitaxial layer on a surface of the wafer and observing scattering of the light from the entire surface of the wafer during growth of the epitaxial layer on the entire surface of the wafer. The growing process is varied in accordance with the observation. With an epitaxial layer of gallium nitride (GaN) the entire surface of the wafer is observed for balls of gallium.
US07776150B2 Process and apparatus for handling synthetic gypsum
Method and apparatus for converting wet synthetic gypsum from a flue desulphurization process (FGD) to easily handled and metered briquettes by mixing a hydraulic additive such as by-pass dust from a cement kiln with synthetic gypsum and allowing the heat from the resulting hydraulic reaction to reduce the water content of the mixture to a formable consistency without adding external heat to the mixture as it is formed into briquettes.
US07776149B2 Barium sulfate, process for its preparation, and its use
Barium sulfate particles having an average particle diameter d50 of from 0.1 to 10 μm which are produced by precipitation can be dispersed better if they are covered with at least one organic additive.
US07776143B2 Particulate corrosion resistant coating composition
A composition comprising a glass-forming binder component and a particulate corrosion resistant component. The particulate corrosion resistant component comprises corrosion resistant particulates having: a CTEp of at least about 4 and being solid at a temperature of about 1300° F. (704° C.) or greater; and a maximum median particle size defined by one of the following formulas: (a) for a CTEp of 8 or less, an MP equal to or less than (4.375×CTEp)−10; and (b) for a CTEp of greater than 8, an Mp equal to or less than (−4.375×CTEp)+60, wherein CTEp is the average CTE of the corrosion resistant particulates and wherein Mp is the median equivalent spherical diameter (ESD), in microns, of the corrosion resistant particulates. Also disclosed is an article comprising a turbine component comprising a metal substrate and a corrosion resistant coating overlaying the metal substrate, as well as a method for forming at least one layer of the corrosion resistant coating adjacent to the metal substrate. The corrosion resistant coating has a maximum thickness defined by one of the following formulas: (3) for a CTEp of 8 or less, an Tc equal to or less than (1.5×CTEp)−3.5; and (4) for a CTEp of greater than 8, an Tc equal to or less than (−1.5×CTEp)+20.5, wherein Tc is the thickness, in mils, of the corrosion resistant coating.
US07776139B2 Separator with transfer tube drainage
A dual stage coalescer includes a separator in a separator chamber separating gas and liquid by inertial impaction, and a coalescer filter element in a coalescer chamber separating gas and liquid by coalescence. A transfer tube extends between the separator chamber and a downstream subchamber in the coalescer chamber at the downstream face of the coalescer filter element, and supplies pre-separated liquid from the separator chamber through the transfer tube to the noted downstream subchamber as driven by pressure differential between the separator chamber and the downstream subchamber, to eliminate a dedicated housing drain outlet from the separator chamber. The coalescer may provide a crankcase ventilation filter for an internal combustion engine having blowby gas containing an air-oil mixture.
US07776137B2 Polyimide based mixed matrix composite membranes
A polyimide MMC membrane useful for the production of oxygen-enriched air or nitrogen-enriched-air, for the separation of carbon dioxide from hydrocarbons or nitrogen, and the separation of helium or hydrogen from various streams. Membranes of polyimide polymers, such as polyimide polymers sold under the tradename P-84, are mixed with molecular sieve materials, such as SSZ-13, to make MMC membranes. The MMC membranes of the invention provide improved membrane performance compared to polymer only membranes, particularly when used to form asymmetric film membranes or hollow fiber membranes. The MMC films exhibit consistent permeation performance as dense film or asymmetric membranes, and do not interact with components of the process streams, such as organic solvents. The membranes of the invention exhibit particularly surprisingly good selectivity for the fluids of interest.
US07776136B2 Apparatus for manufacturing molten irons by hot compacting fine direct reduced irons and calcined additives and method using the same
A method for manufacturing molten iron including the steps of producing reducing material of mixed hot fine direct reduced iron and calcined additives, the reducing material being produced from multiple fluidized beds; charging the reducing material to at least one pair of roller presses; roll pressing the reducing material through the one pair of roller presses to produce continuous compacted material having protrusions formed on pressed surfaces; crushing the compacted material; charging the crushed compacted material to a coal packed bed; and supplying oxygen to the coal packed bed to manufacture molten iron, wherein in the producing compacted material, the compacted material is formed such that acute and obtuse angles are formed between a center line formed along a length of a cross section that is cut along a lengthwise direction perpendicular to an axial direction of the roller presses and connecting lines that connect grooves closest to each other across the cross sectional area. An apparatus for manufacturing molten iron performs the inventive method for manufacturing molten iron. The processes involved in manufacturing molten iron using the invention are convenient, efficient, improve productivity, and allow for more flexibility with respect to equipment operation during the manufacture of compacted material.
US07776135B2 Method for the recovery of gold
The invention relates to a method for the recovery of gold in connection with the hydrometallurgical production of copper from a residue or intermediate product containing sulphur and iron generated in the leaching of copper raw material. The recovery of both copper and gold takes place in a chloride milieu. The gold contained in the residue or intermediate product is leached using bivalent copper and oxygen in copper (II) chloride-sodium chloride solution in the conditions, where the oxidation-reduction potential is a maximum of 650 mV and the pH at least 1. The iron and sulphur contained in the residue remain for the most part undissolved.
US07776132B2 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.
US07776125B2 Composition and method for inhibiting caking in a urea containing fertilizer
Compositions and methods are provided for inhibiting caking or clumping in urea containing fertilizers by reducing the crystal aspect ratios of the crystals formed in the fertilizer to a level sufficient to effectively eliminate caking in a treated fertilizer.
US07776122B2 Filter system
The invention pertains to a filter system, particularly for cleaning the air of a switchgear cabinet to be ventilated, wherein a filter housing can be inserted into an insertion shaft in a first direction and is subjected to a motion perpendicular to the first inserting direction during the course of the inserting motion in order to reach the desired end position of the filter housing.
US07776120B2 Vacuum cleaner with a moveable divider plate
A surface cleaning apparatus comprises a dirt inlet, a handle, a cyclone separator having an outer wall, a fluid inlet downstream from the dirt air inlet and a fluid outlet, a plate having a cyclone chamber surface and positioned to substantially divide the cyclone separator into a cyclone chamber and a dirt collection chamber, the plate being removably mounted in the cyclone separator, a passage extending between the cyclone chamber and the dirt collection chamber and a fluid flow motor.
US07776117B2 Air filtration units of the type comprising filtration bags
An air filtration unit, includes a filter cartridge (4) of the filtration bag (6) type, the bags (6) being arranged vertically and held extended by appropriate fixing elements (16, 17), between two support structures (12, 13). The upper ends (15) of the bags (6) are fixed to an upper support structure (13), in the form of a perforated sheet and the lower ends thereof (14) are fixed to a lower support structure (12), in the form of a grille. According to the invention, the fixing elements (16, 17), for the filtration bags (6), are embodied to permit the tensioning of the bags (6) at the upper end (15) thereof. The invention further relates to a particular method for assembly of a filtration bag within a unit as above, a tool for tensioning bags, embodied to be suitable for the unit.
US07776110B2 Agglomerated animal litter
Lightweight composite particles, primarily comprising various bentonite clays, but which may include other functional solid particles, are formed by introducing expanding gases or air into the particle forming process. The methods presented create the ability to reduce the bulk density of the composite particles while maintaining and in some cases even increasing the particle strength.
US07776107B2 Aminoindolizines, dyeing composition comprising at least one aminoindolizine, methods and uses thereof
A new class of chemical entities chosen from aminoindolizines of formula (I), acid addition salts thereof, and solvates thereof: their use for dyeing keratin fibers, including human keratin fibers such as the hair; dyeing compositions comprising such chemical entities; and to kits containing compositions comprising those chemical entities.
US07776106B2 Dyestuffs and hair dye compositions
The present invention refers to dyestuffs of the general Formula (I) wherein R, X, Y and Z are defined as given in claim 1, dyestuff mixtures and hair dye compositions comprising them, as well as a process for coloring hair.
US07776105B2 Hair dye composition
An air-oxidative type hair dye composition containing a melanin precursor prepared by a process including (A) an oxidation step for converting, into the melanin precursor, a tyrosine or derivative thereof used as a starting substance with an enzyme or cell that is derived from a fungus selected from the group consisting of fungi belonging to the genera Aspergillus, Neurospora, Rhizomucor, Trichoderma, and Penicillium and that exhibits a catechol oxidase activity.
US07776104B2 Oxidizing composition comprising insoluble compounds, and processes using this composition
A ready-to-use oxidizing composition for treating keratin materials, such as human keratin fibers, in particular the hair, comprising, in a cosmetically acceptable medium: (a) at least one oxidizing agent, (b) at least 30% by weight of at least one water-insoluble oxygenated organic no-dyeing particular compound relative to the total weight of the said composition, and (c) at least 20% by weight of water relative to the total weight of the said composition, and to processes for bleaching, stripping, dyeing, lightening or permanently reshaping human keratin fibers and in particular the hair, and also to the use of the said composition for bleaching, stripping, dyeing, lightening and permanently reshaping human keratin fibers and in particular the hair.
US07776100B2 Device for regeneration of articular cartilage and other tissue
An implantable device for facilitating the healing of voids in bone, cartilage and soft tissue is disclosed. A preferred embodiment includes a cartilage region comprising a polyelectrolytic complex joined with a subchondral bone region. The cartilage region, of this embodiment, enhances the environment for chondrocytes to grow articular cartilage; while the subchondral bone region enhances the environment for cells which migrate into that region's macrostructure and which differentiate into osteoblasts. A hydrophobic barrier exists between the regions, of this embodiment. In one embodiment, the polyelectrolytic complex transforms to hydrogel, following the implant procedure.
US07776096B2 Intervertebral disc annulus stent
A stent, or device for repair and reconstruction of the spinal disc wall, or annulus fibrosus, after surgical incision or pathologic rupture, which is inserted through an aperture into the subannular space. The stent has radial extensions which are caused or allowed to expand into an expanded configuration to bridge the aperture. The stent thereby occludes the defective region from the inside of the vertebral disc and prevents the migration of nucleus pulposus therethrough, while also providing a scaffold for tissue growth.
US07776094B2 Spinal implants and methods for inserting spinal implants into intervertebral spaces
A bone block for insertion into a patient's intervertebral space. A method for inserting a bone block into a patient's intervertebral space, comprising: supporting the bone block in an inserter; advancing the inserter into the intervertebral space; rotating the inserter, thereby separating adjacent vertebrae; separating the bone block and the inserter with a push rod; and removing the inserter from the intervertebral space.
US07776091B2 Adjustable posterior spinal column positioner
Height-adjustable devices suitable for insertion between posterior spinal processes that allow the surgeon to post-operatively adjust the height of the implant.
US07776090B2 Inter-cervical facet implant and method
Systems and method in accordance with the embodiments of the present invention can include an implant for positioning within a cervical facet joint for distracting the cervical spine, thereby increasing the area of the canals and openings through which the spinal cord and nerves must pass, and decreasing pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerve roots. The implant can be inserted laterally or posteriorly.
US07776089B2 Assembled bone-tendon-bone grafts
The present invention has multiple aspects. In its simplest aspect, the present invention is directed to an intermediate bone block comprising a machined segment of cortical bone, cancellous bone or both, the intermediate having a face comprising one to ten compression surfaces and one to ten cavities, the compression surfaces suitable for compressing soft tissue, the cavities for receiving and holding overflow soft tissue. The cavities are preferably channels, and more preferably channels having an omega cross-sectional profile. The invention is also directed to bone block assemblies suitable for binding to a soft tissue to form an implantable graft, and to such implantable grafts. A particularly preferred graft is a bone-tendon-bone graft.
US07776088B2 Intraocular lens system and method for power adjustment
An intraocular lens (IOL) that provides for optical power adjustment following its implantation, for example, for use in treating cataract patients. The lens body has first and second surface portions that bound at least one interior chamber or space that extends from the central optic portion to the lens periphery. The interior chamber or space has a microporous body that is intermediate inner and outer portions of the space. In one embodiment, the microporous body is capable of cooperating with an external Rf or light source to expose a charge to a charge-carrying fluid within the interior chamber. By this system, fluid flows are induced to alter the optical parameters of the lens.
US07776083B2 Bioprosthetic cardiovascular valve system
A cardiovascular valve system including a permanent base unit that is affixed to the patient using conventional sutures or staples, and a collapsible valve having a collapsible frame that mates with the permanent base unit, and supports valve leaflets. An installed collapsible frame may be re-collapsed and disengaged from the permanent housing. A new collapsible valve is then installed, to resume the function of the prosthesis.
US07776078B2 Catheter balloon with improved retention
A catheter for delivering a medical device into a body lumen, and method for preparing said catheter, wherein the catheter comprises an elongate body, at least a portion of which defines a medical device retaining region for retaining a medical device thereon. At least a portion of the medical device retaining region comprises a predetermined pattern of material. The predetermined pattern of material is a photoresist material that may be placed on the outer surface of the catheter to modify at least one physical property of the catheter.
US07776077B2 Method for soft tissue attachment
An apparatus and method for fixing a selected graft relative to a selected anatomical portion. An anchor may be provided that may be interconnected with a selected graft portion that is operable to pass through a selected bore and then moved into an operable position to engage a selected portion of the bore to substantially eliminate the possibility of the graft moving in an unselected direction through the bore.
US07776076B2 Bone plate
A bone plate has an upper surface, a lower surface, and at least one first hole extending through the upper and lower surfaces. The first hole has two or three vertically separate regions, each region communicating with or abutting an adjacent region. The first hole has a first unthreaded upper region, which has a curved inward taper from the plate's upper surface toward the plate's lower surface. The first hole has a second threaded middle region, which has a conical inward taper from the plate's upper surface toward the plate's lower surface. A third unthreaded lower region has a conical outward taper from the plate's upper surface toward the plate's lower surface. The bone plate may be straight, curved, or include a combination of both straight and curved segments.
US07776069B2 Posterior vertebral support assembly
The invention concerns an assembly (1) comprising an interspinous wedge (5) configured to be inserted between the spinous processes (9) of two vertebrae (2) to be treated, whereof at least one zone designed to be placed between the spinous processes of the vertebrae is made of an elastically deformable material. The assembly (1) further comprises: two compressive lateral elements (6), designed to be placed on either side of the wedge (5) in the longitudinal direction, said compressive lateral elements (6) being deformable between releasing positions, wherein they are relatively spaced apart from the wedge (5) in the transverse direction, and compressive positions, wherein they are relatively close to the wedge (5) in the transverse direction; and two lateral transmission elements (7), placed between the compressive lateral elements (6) and the wedge (5), configured to press against the wedge (5) in the transverse direction thereof, at the interspinous zone (10) of the wedge (5).
US07776065B2 End effector mechanism for a surgical instrument
Improved end effector mechanisms for a surgical instrument used in minimally invasive surgical instruments as well as instruments for general surgery or as part of robotically controlled end effectors. These end effector mechanisms include multiple grasping elements paired with drive links. Each grasping element also serves as a stabilizing link for the next most distal grasping element, forcing it to maintain its relative angle with respect to the opposing grasping elements.
US07776061B2 Fluid adjustable band
A surgically implantable fluid adjustable device, such as an adjustable gastric band, having an elongated substantially flexible inflatable portion, and an elongated flexible and substantially inextensible band portion attached to the inflatable portion. The device further includes a member for changing the shape of the device from a straight configuration to a curved configuration after being implanted within a body.
US07776059B2 Suturing method
An apparatus used with a helical suture device has a first end and a second end. The first end includes a spatulate member having a length along a first axis. The second end includes a guide shaped to receive a cylindrical axle of the helical suture device for rotation on a second axis. The guide is shaped to constrain the first axis in fixed position relative to the second axis, the first and second axes each lying within a plane. The spatulate member extends, typically symmetrically, in a first direction and a second direction from the first axis, the first direction and second direction being on opposite sides of the plane. The apparatus lies between a first tissue that is to be sutured, and a second tissue that is desired not to be sutured.
US07776056B2 Instrument guide system
A system is provided to align a surgical guide instrument over a burr hole in a patient's body. Adjustments of a surgical instrument can be made in x, y, z, and angular directions using the system. An instrument guide unit can include an instrument guide for guiding a surgical instrument into the body of a patient and a base unit operative to be secured to the body near an area in which surgery is to occur. The base unit is coupled to the instrument guide. An adjustment mechanism, coupled to the base unit and the instrument guide, is operative to adjust the instrument guide in lateral directions with respect the surface of the area.
US07776054B2 Apparatus for deployment of micro-coil using a catheter
The apparatus for deployment of a therapeutic device such as a micro-coil detachably mounts the therapeutic device to a distal portion of a pusher member. In one embodiment, the therapeutic device is detachably mounted to the distal portion of the pusher member by a tubular collar that can be heated by a heater such as an electrical resistance coil to expand the collar and release and deploy the therapeutic device. The apparatus for deployment of a therapeutic device such as a micro-coil may also provide for a pusher member and a connector fiber for securing the therapeutic device to the pusher member. The connector fiber passes through a heater within the distal portion of the pusher member, for heating and breaking the connector fiber to release the therapeutic device when a desired placement of the therapeutic device within the vasculature is achieved.
US07776052B2 Medical grasping device
A medical grasping device (10) for vascular use, having an outer sheath (12), an elongate control member (50) extending within an outer sheath (12) to a distal tip section (54), and a proximal control assembly (22) including an actuation section (24) joined to the elongate control member (50). Adjacent to the distal tip section (54) is a grasping portion (70,70′) that is extendable from the outer sheath (12) to create loops (74,74′) for grasping a target object (T) for repositioning within the vascular system, or for removal from the patient, with loops being retractable into the outer sheath to hold the target object against the device (10) during movement of the device. Elongate control member (50) is preferably a cannula or tube having a lumen (58) extending completely therethrough for placement over a guide wire (28) already in the patient.
US07776047B2 Guide for spinal tools, implants, and devices
A guide device is provided for use with a spinal fixation element that has at least one pair of thru bores formed therein. The guide device generally includes an elongate shaft having a proximal end and a distal end. A guide member is coupled to the distal end of the elongate shaft and it includes at least one pathway extending therethrough, and at least one alignment element that is positioned distal of the guide member. Each alignment element(s) is adapted to interact with a spinal fixation element to position the guide member with respect to the spinal fixation element such that the each pathway in the guide member is aligned with a corresponding thru bore formed in the spinal fixation element. The guide member can then be used to guide tools, devices, and/or implants through each pathway in the spinal fixation element and into bone.
US07776045B2 Instrumentation and methods for vertebral distraction
An instrument for distracting vertebrae includes a shaft assembly and a distraction assembly at a distal end of the shaft assembly. The distraction assembly includes first and second distraction members movable from an unexpanded configuration for insertion toward an expanded configuration to separate the vertebrae. The shaft assembly is movable relative to the distraction assembly to facilitate placement of the distraction assembly in the disc space.
US07776038B2 Intramedullary locking nail
An intramedullary locking nail for treating bone fractures and which have spaced apart regions has at least one transverse hole for receiving a bone screw and at least one transverse hole being configured as an elongate hole extending in the longitudinal axial direction of the nail. An end portion of the elongate hole being wider than an adjacent portion of the elongate hole. The adjacent portion of the elongate hole having a constant width over its length. A bone screw is provided having a cross-sectional contour having a flattened segment. The end portion of the elongate hole being formed such that the bone screw is locked in a first rotational position in the end portion, and in a second rotational position, may enter the adjacent portion unhindered from the end portion.
US07776036B2 Bipolar concentric electrode assembly for soft tissue fusion
A bipolar electrosurgical forceps for treating tissue includes a pair of opposing first and second jaw members each having a tissue engaging surface disposed thereon. Each of the jaw members is movable relative to one another from a first position to approximate tissue to a second position for engaging tissue therebetween. The first jaw member includes a plurality of ring electrodes disposed thereon having a first electrical potential and the second jaw member includes a corresponding plurality of post electrodes disposed thereon having a second electrical potential. Each of the plurality of post electrodes is inwardly disposed of a respective ring electrode to form an electrode micro-sealing pad wherein upon activation of the forceps tissue grasped between each electrode micro-sealing pad is sealed while tissue adjacent to each electrode micro-sealing pads remains viable.
US07776035B2 Cool-tip combined electrode introducer
The present disclosure relates to systems, devices and methods for positioning and placing multiple electrodes in a target surgical site. An introducer is provided for facilitating the insertion of a cluster of electrodes into the body of a patient for performing tissue ablation. The introducer includes a body portion including a plurality of holes formed therein for selectively receiving a respective elongate shaft of the electrodes therethrough, wherein the holes of the introducer orient and space each electrode relative to one another, wherein the introducer includes a centrally disposed hole formed therein for receiving a guide needle therethrough.
US07776033B2 Wettable structures including conductive fibers and apparatus including the same
An apparatus including a wettable structure and a plurality of conductive fibers carried by the wettable structure.
US07776032B2 Device for improved visualization of operative sites during surgery
This invention provides a novel surgical device well suited to use in laparoscopic or other (e.g. open surgical) procedures. In certain embodiments, the device comprises a surgical probe, including a handle comprising at least one channel passing through the handle; and at least one conduit passing through the handle, where wherein at least one effector element is inserted into or through the channel, which effector element effects one or more surgical functions; and where the conduit comprises a distal conduit port that directs gas out of the conduit to substantially remove debris and/or fluid from a surface disposed proximal to the effector and/or from the effector element.
US07776031B2 Method and apparatus to control drug therapy dosages in an implantable pump
An implantable drug infusion pump for delivering drug therapy to a patient and which also permits a patient to deliver or self-administer an additional bolus, reduces the likelihood of over dosage or under dosage by drug dosage characteristic limitations programmed into a microprocessor memory. The dose limits define the maximum and minimum amount of drug to be delivered per unit time or otherwise, reducing the likelihood that a patient may inadvertently or deliberately interfere with a treatment regimen.
US07776030B2 Operating an infusion pump system
Some embodiments of a medical infusion pump system include a pump device and a removable controller device. When the pump device and the removable controller device are removably attached to one another, the components may provide a portable infusion pump unit to dispense medicine to a user. In particular embodiments, the removable controller device includes a user interface to readily provide information, for example, about the operation of the pump.
US07776028B2 Adjustable overlay reduced pressure wound treatment system
A reduced pressure treatment appliance is provided for treating a wound on the body of a patient. In some embodiments, the appliance comprises an overlay, which is further comprised of cup members that may be detached or cut away from the overlay so that the overlay can be adjusted in size and shape. Also, in some embodiments, the overlay is further comprised of a pressure venting valve to maintain a predetermined level of reduced pressure at the site of the wound. In other embodiments, the wound treatment appliance also includes a vacuum system to supply reduced pressure to the site of the wound in the volume under the overlay. In yet other embodiments, the treatment appliance also includes wound packing means to prevent overgrowth of the wound or to encourage growth of wound tissue into an absorbable matrix comprising the wound packing means. In still other embodiments, a suction bulb may be used to provide a source of reduced pressure to an overlay that covers the wound. Finally, methods are provided for using various embodiments of the treatment appliance.
US07776027B2 Medical handpiece with automatic power switching means
A medical instrument includes a handpiece, an electromechanical transducer disposed in the handpiece, and an electrical circuit disposed at least partially in the handpiece for supplying alternating electrical current of a predetermined frequency to the transducer. A probe is operatively connected to the transducer for transmitting vibrations generated by the transducer to an operative site in a patient. A switching device is mounted to the handpiece and is operatively connected to the circuit and the transducer for enabling the supply of power to the transducer during a motion of the probe in a preselected direction relative to the handpiece and for disabling the supply of power to the transducer upon a termination of motion of the probe in the preselected direction.
US07776026B2 Method for vitreous liquefaction
A process is disclosed for liquefying the vitreous humor of an eye. The process includes the steps of delivering plasmin into the vitreous of the eye and incubating the vitreous and plasmin together for a period of time. Plasmin may be introduced through injection or a sustained release device. Plasmin may be used to treat a pathological condition of the eye such as diabetic retinopathy, macular hole, macular pucker, intraocular infection, foreign intraocular material and retinal detachment.
US07776025B2 Method for providing medicament to tissue
A system for delivering medicaments to tissue including a delivery member and an optical fiber formed together into a unitary structure. The optical fiber has an inlet attached to a laser energy source and an outlet for emitting laser energy. The delivery member has an inlet attached to a medicament source and an outlet for injecting medicament. A handpiece is adapted to receive the ablating and injecting device in a controlled and movable relationship and may include at least one tissue stabilizing member thereon. In use, the distal end of the handpiece is placed against tissue to be ablated. The optical fiber is advanced into the tissue while emitting laser energy thereby ablating the tissue and forming a channel therein. During retraction, medicament may be injected into the channel or into the tissue surrounding the channel.
US07776024B2 Method of actuating implanted medical device
Methods are provided for medical treatment or diagnosis of a patient. The method includes implanting into the patient a device which comprises (i) a substrate in which at least one reservoir is located and covered by a first reservoir cap, (ii) a drug or sensor located in the reservoir, and (iii) control circuitry and a power source for disintegrating or permeabilizing the reservoir cap, and (iv) an external interface to receive incident light energy; and directing focused light to the external interface of the implanted device to actuate disintegration or permeabilization of the reservoir cap to release the drug or expose the sensor. The device may implanted onto or into the sclera or other tissue surface of the eye of the patient. The focused light may be laser light, which may be used to transmit power or data to the device.
US07776023B2 Method and implement for opening hole in soft material
An hole-opening implement (5 or 50) for opening a hole in a soft material (2) has a first cutting part and a second cutting part. To pierce the soft material with the hole-opening implement, both cutting parts advances in the soft material while cutting the soft material. Such a state that the second cutting part remains in the soft material just after the first cutting part is passed through the soft material is assured so that a cut piece as bound to the soft material can remain after the opening. The first cutting part is formed at a tip of the hole-opening implement, and the second cutting part is disposed behind the first cutting part in the piercing direction of the hole-opening implement. Otherwise, the hole-opening implement may be constructed so that the first cutting part is sharp in section and the second cutting part is formed so as to have lower cutting force than the first cutting part.
US07776021B2 Micromachined bilayer unit for filtration of small molecules
Methods and materials for making an apparatus which duplicates the functionality of a physiological system id provided.
US07776018B2 Luer connector assembly
A luer connector assembly is provided for enhancing the frictional engagement between medical devices such as syringes and needle assemblies. The assembly needle includes a female luer fitting having a passageway and a relatively soft, resilient member bounding the passageway. The passageway is also bounded by the body of the fitting, which is harder than the soft, resilient member. A male luer fitting inserted into the passageway engages both the soft, resilient member and the body of the female luer fitting. A method of manufacturing such a connector assembly is further provided. A first material is injected into a mold to form the body of a female luer fitting, the fitting including a passageway and a recess extending into the body. A second material is then injected such that it extends into the recess and bounds the passageway. The second material, when cool, is softer than the first material.
US07776016B1 Huber needle safety enclosure
A safety enclosure which is designed for a hypodermic needle that is located in the shape of an approximate right angle (Huber needle). A safety enclosure has a needle housing within which the Huber needle is mounted. The needle housing is mounted in conjunction with a panel unit. The panel unit is composed of a series of planar panels which are edge connected together defining an enclosed area. The panel unit can be movable from a basically transverse position to an elongated position. When in the transverse position, the panel unit is to be mounted with adhesive tape onto the skin of a patient with the sharp end of the needle being inserted within the body of the patient. When the panel unit is in the elongated position, the needle is withdrawn from the body of the patient and the sharpened end of the needle is covered by the panels thereby preventing undesired needlestick injury to the medical practitioner that is installing and removing the enclosure.
US07776013B2 Intradermal syringe and needle assembly
A method for using a needle assembly for an intradermal injection, and a drug delivery device is provided, which includes a needle cannula and a limiter surrounding the needle cannula and includes a skin engaging surface on the limiter. The limiter is moveable from a first position in which an elongate portion of the needle cannula is exposed for access to a medication vial, to a locked second position in which the limiter is not movable from the second position to the first position. In the second position, the needle tip extends beyond the skin engaging surface a distance of about 3 mm or less.
US07776010B2 Syringe-in-syringe hollow inner barrel/plunger with integral seal and rupturable membrane and related kits, systems, and methods
A hollow inner plunger for use within a syringe-in-syringe mixing system for mixing a two-part dental composition. The hollow inner plunger includes a body having a continuous cylindrical wall defining an internal chamber for containing a first component. The body includes a proximal end and a distal end. A sealing plug and rupturable membrane are disposed at the distal end of the body, and the sealing plug and rupturable membrane are integrally formed together as a single piece (e.g., formed of a single piece of elastomeric material). An associated syringe-in-syringe mixing system includes a first plunger, the hollow inner plunger as described above, and a syringe barrel configured to contain a second component. When assembled, the first plunger is slidably disposed within the hollow inner plunger, and the hollow inner plunger is slidably disposed within the syringe barrel. The two components are initially separated by the rupturable membrane.
US07775998B2 Multi-component dressing for treating wounds of the human or animal body using a reduced pressure
A multi-component dressing (100) for treating wounds of the human or animal body, using a reduced pressure, comprising a wound-covering element (4) for mounting the dressing (100) at the surface of the skin and the mucous membrane having at least one connecting site (5) through which material in the wound space (10) can be evacuated. The multi-component dressing has super-absorbing polymers, the absorbed wound secretions remaining bound to polymers in the wound space until the latter are removed from the wound space and the polymers, due to their binding capacity, supporting reciprocal synergies with the sub-atmospheric pressures. Wound exudate, promoted by the reduced pressure, is also stored and controlled by polymerized granulates.
US07775995B2 Device for the generation of shock waves utilizing a thyristor
The invention relates to a device for the generation of shock waves for medical therapy, having a shock source, an energy storage and a switch, wherein the energy storage is a capacitor with a high capacity.
US07775989B2 Needle biopsy forceps with integral sample ejector
A sample ejecting safety biopsy needle forceps includes a pair of pivotable cups and a sample-spearing needle disposed between the jaws for holding multiple specimens. A tissue sample-contacting surface at a proximal end of a needle is movable relative to the needle to contact the samples and push them along the needle when the cups are in an open position. A control or actuator at a proximal end of the forceps accomplishes the relative movement.
US07775987B2 Computation of blood pressure using different signal processing channels
A blood pressure measurement system that utilizes a non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) monitor having a blood pressure cuff and pressure transducer. The measurement system provides a plurality of separate processing techniques that each receive a plurality of oscillometric data values from the pressure transducer. Each of the processing techniques separately constructs an oscillometric envelope based upon the oscillometric data values. Based upon the plurality of separate oscillometric envelopes, the system compares the envelopes and develops a calculated blood pressure from the plurality of envelopes. The calculated blood pressure is then displayed by the NIBP system. The plurality of oscillometric envelopes can be compared and combined in different manners to calculate the patient's blood pressure from the plurality of different processing techniques.
US07775984B2 Electronic blood pressure monitor and data processing apparatus
At the time of blood pressure measurement by an electronic blood pressure monitor, a calculation portion calculates a blood pressure based on a pressure within a cuff detected by a pressure sensor, and outputs blood pressure data. A data storing portion stores the blood pressure data in a memory in association with condition data indicating a condition concerning the blood pressure. A manipulation portion is manipulated by a user to designate a desired condition from among a plurality of conditions. When the manipulation portion is manipulated, a read and display portion searches the memory based on the condition designated by the manipulation, reads the blood pressure data associated with the designated condition from the memory, and displays the read data on a display portion.
US07775983B2 Rapid shallow breathing detection for use in congestive heart failure status determination
Systems and methods involve use of a medical device comprising sensing circuitry. One or more respiratory parameters are detected using the device. Patient baseline weight is provided, and an output signal indicative of a patient's congestive heart failure status is generated based on a change in the one or more respiratory parameters and a change in the patient's measured weight or predicted weight relative to the patient baseline weight. The respiratory parameters may include one or more of respiration rate, relative tidal volume, an index indicative of rapid shallow breathing by the patient, an index derived by computing a respiration rate and a tidal volume for each patient breath, and an index indicative of dyspnea, for example.
US07775982B2 Method and system for sub-aperture processing
A transducer assembly is provided including a transducer array comprising a plurality ‘M’ of transducer elements and a sub-aperture processor comprising a plurality ‘P’ of input channels and an output channel. The plurality ‘P’ of input channels is coupled to the ‘M’ transducer elements and a plurality ‘R’ of switching elements in operative association with the output channel of the sub-aperture processor to switchably couple the output channel to at least one of a plurality of ‘N’ system channels.
US07775980B2 Displacement measurement method and apparatus, strain measurement method and apparatus, elasticity and visco-elasticity constants measurement apparatus, and the elasticity and visco-elasticity constants measurement apparatus-based treatment apparatus
The present invention provides elastic constant and visco elastic constant measurement apparatus etc. for measuring in the ROI in living tissues elastic constants such as shear modulus, Poisson's ratio, Lame constants, etc., visco elastic constants such as visco shear modulus, visco Poisson's ratio, visco Lame constants, etc. and density even if there exist another mechanical sources and uncontrollable mechanical sources in the object. The elastic constant and visco elastic constant measurement apparatus is equipped with means of data storing 2 (storage of deformation data measured in the ROI 7 etc.) and means of calculating elastic and visco elastic constants 1 (calculator of shear modulus etc. at arbitrary point in the ROI from measured strain tensor data etc.), the means of calculating elastic and visco elastic constants numerically determines elastic constants etc. from the first order partial differential equations relating elastic constants etc. and strain tensor etc.
US07775979B2 Transmit and receive interface array for highly integrated ultrasound scanner
An ultrasonic transducer probe having a highly integrated interface circuit array. Low-voltage transmit control signals from the system are transmitted on the system transmit channels via the ultrasound probe cable and into the interface circuit array. These transmit control signals are routed through the interface circuit array using a dense switching matrix. Once the low-voltage transmit control signals reach individual cells within the interface array, they are decoded and used to control local high-voltage pulser circuits to drive individual ultrasound transducer elements made up of selected subelements that are co-integrated with the interface electronics. The interface cell circuitry further comprises a high-voltage transmit/receive switch, which is closed when the high-voltage pulser is transmitting to protect the low-voltage components.
US07775978B2 Cyclical information determination with medical diagnostic ultrasound
Without using ECG input signals or processor intensive correlation, cyclical timing is determined from ultrasound data. Cyclical timing includes determining the time of end diastole, time of end systole or heart rate. The ultrasound data is reduced, such as by projecting each frame of data onto two axes. For projection, data is summed along each dimension. The location associated with the maximum variance through the sequence is identified from the projected data. The ultrasound data associated with the location is used to identify cycle timing information, such as to provide a waveform representing the cycle. Lines from different frames of data in the sequence are also used to generate an image. The image shows cycle timing information.
US07775975B2 Analyte sensor
Systems and methods of use for continuous analyte measurement of a host's vascular system are provided. In some embodiments, a continuous glucose measurement system includes a vascular access device, a sensor and sensor electronics, the system being configured for insertion into communication with a host's circulatory system.
US07775969B2 Endoscope with an optical fiber embedded in a flexible sleeve and method for using the same
The present invention relates to an endoscope, in particular an ureterorenoscope. The endoscope comprises a lumen for insertion of a light and energy transmitting fiber. According to the invention during insertion of the fiber into a working channel of the endoscope the sharp edges of the fiber are protected by a flexible sleeve in order to avoid damages of a wall limiting the working channel. Prior to using the fiber for transmitting energy emitted by a laser the flexible sleeve is completely removed from the working channel in order to free a lumen that might be used for additional instruments or delivery of a fluid. Furthermore the stiffness of the endoscope is reduced by removing the flexible sleeve.
US07775968B2 Guided access to lung tissues
This invention relates generally to lung access devices and methods of using the devices to gain access to the interior of a lung or to the mediastinal space around the lung. In particular, the invention relates to auxiliary access devices and tools for use with conventional bronchoscopes or other endoscopes to enable the delivery of more and larger devices to a target site than is currently possible through a typical endoscope or bronchoscope.
US07775962B2 Centrifuge with polymerizing energy source
Methods for using a centrifuge are presented. A vessel containing a sample and a separator substance is placed within a centrifuge. Upon sufficient centrifugation, the sample separates into two or more fractions separated by the separator substance. The centrifuge exposes the separator substance to a sufficient energy to polymerize the separator substance to produce a hardened barrier between the fractions.
US07775961B2 Microwave assisted centrifuge and related methods
Centrifuge samples may be exposed to microwave energy to heat the samples during centrifugation and to promote separation of the different components or constituents of the samples using a centrifuge device configured for generating microwave energy and directing the microwave energy at a sample located in the centrifuge.
US07775959B2 Folding device with a folding drum
A folding device with a folding drum for producing the second longitudinal fold in products of a rotary press has at least two folding blades fixed in folding-blade carriers, a folding-blade shaft is mounted in the folding drum at both ends by means of bearings and between the latter by means of at least one further bearing, the bearing preferably being arranged between the folding-blade carriers.
US07775958B2 Sanitary tissue paper, method of producing the same, carton box for sanitary tissue paper, sanitary tissue paper package, interfolder, and apparatus and method of conveying sanitary tissue paper package
The present invention aims at preventing sanitary tissue paper from being torn when it is removed. The purpose is accomplished by sanitary tissue paper of single-ply or double-plies, characterized in that said paper has a lateral tensile strength on a dry condition of 32 N/m or more, a longitudinal tensile strength on a wet condition 32 N/m or more, and a longitudinal tensile strength on a dry condition which is 2.5 to 3.5 times higher than the lateral tensile strength on a dry condition.
US07775957B2 Apparatus for making plastic bags
A plastic bag including a pair of side gussets 1 is arranged to be free of leakage from one end portion of each of the side gussets. Each of the side gussets has opposite end portions one of which is folded obliquely along a folding line as it is folded into halves so that a triangular flap 13 can be formed by the end portion to be shaped into a triangle having a base formed by the folding line. The triangle has an apex formed by an intersection between one of the opposite end edges and the folded inner edge of each of the side gussets. The panels 2, the side gussets and the triangular flaps are heat sealed respectively along the opposite side edges 3 of panels.
US07775952B1 Balance training apparatus, and over and under combination
A balance trainer has a board with a notional nose and tail, a rolling fulcrum for the board to perch on, and at least one hold-down link extending between one end anchored to ground and another end secured to the notional tail of the board. The board as perched on the rolling fulcrum would—in the absence constraint—afford free tipping tilt along at least one axis. However, the hold-down link supplies constraint such that free leash is given to the to the notional tail of the board so long as the hold-down link is slack. But when the nose of the board dives furthest against the hold-down link, the board either deadens in a fixed pitch angle against the tautened hold-down link, or else can be swung laterally a bit, in sort of a monkey-swing fashion in inverse, giving a training experience like riding on a long surf board.
US07775948B2 Dumbbell structure
The present invention relates to an improved dumbbell structure, in which a clamping portion, used for mounting weights, is located on two ends of a hand grip of a dumbbell. A clamping hole, a press operation recess and a fixing hole are defined on each of the clamping portions, and a clamping column is located within each of the clamping holes. A press operation column is disposed within each of the press operation recesses. When force is applied to the press operation column, then the press operation column exerts force on the clamping column, and causes the clamping column to separate from the weight. Accordingly, a user is able to quickly change weights on the dumbbell.
US07775943B2 Resistance band exercise machine
An exercise machine, including an elastic band and a tension fulcrum positioned so that the band extends around the tension fulcrum to provide resistance exercise to the user.
US07775942B2 Recumbent stepper apparatus
A recumbent exercise device which provides lower body, upper body and cardiovascular conditioning is disclosed. A pair of leg assemblies and a pair of arm assemblies are pivotally supported by the frame for movement about a transverse pivot axis. The arm and leg assemblies each includes an upward and forward extending lever with the leg assemblies terminating in pedals and the arm assemblies terminating in handles. The arm and leg assemblies are connected to each other for contralateral movement. A resistance mechanism is positioned substantially between the legs of a user.
US07775941B2 Exercise apparatus for transport vehicles and related methods
Exercise apparatus including first and second foot pads coupled to a frame. The frame includes first and second telescoping members to enable the apparatus to be moved between a stored position and an exercise position. The apparatus may be conveniently stowed beneath a seat of a transport vehicle, and may be secured to the seat tracks aboard the vehicle. Foot pad supports provide resistance to movement of the foots pads, enabling a user to exercise his or her legs while seated to reduce fatigue, increase blood flow and decrease the formation of blood clots.
US07775932B2 Manual helical planetary transmission and power divider for motor vehicles comprising said transmission
A manual helical planetary transmission comprises a housing, a sun gear, a planet carrier with helical planetary gears and an axially displaceable ring gear which can be coupled to the housing or to the planet carrier. The transmission provides a compact and easy-to-produce solution for locking the gears. For this purpose, first saw-tooth coupling teeth are provided on both sides of the fronts of the ring gear and have a gently sloping first profile. Second saw-tooth coupling teeth provided on the housing and the planet carrier have a gently sloping profile and fit into the first coupling teeth. In the respective gear, the peripheral forces acting upon the ring gear force the gently sloping first profiles of the first coupling teeth against the gently sloping first profiles of the second coupling teeth on the housing or the planet carrier, thereby frictionally keeping the ring gear in the respective engaged position.
US07775924B2 Hydraulic tensioning device for a traction mechanism drive
A hydraulic tensioning device is provided for a traction mechanism drive, in particular for a chain or belt drive of an internal combustion engine. The device includes a tensioning piston which is guided in a displaceable manner in a cylinder, with a pressure chamber being defined between the tensioning piston and the cylinder which is used to receive hydraulic fluid. A pressure relief valve is provided which limits the pressure in the pressure chamber. The pressure relief valve (8) includes, at least partially, a pre-assembled assembly (10) which can be inserted or is inserted into the tensioning piston (4).
US07775916B1 Soccer goal structure
The present invention is a system for joining tubes in a structure. The system includes hollow tubes and pressure assemblies. The tubes have tool holes spaced from the ends which are to be joined together. The pressure assemblies include members which can be spread apart by threaded inserts threaded into one of the members. The threaded inserts are spaced to correspond to the spacing between the tool holes as occurs when the tube ends are placed together. Accordingly, a pressure assembly can be inserted into adjacent tube ends and then expanded with sufficient expanding force for joining the tube ends in a rigid, strong joint. The system of the present invention may be used to make highly versatile and portable structures such as soccer goals, American football uprights and basketball goals.
US07775915B2 Water disk sports game and target
A water disk sports game that includes a pair of floating goals located at predetermined distances from each other in a designated boundary area. Each goal includes a vertical scoring pole that extends upward from a large floating base. In a first embodiment, the floating base is a hollow circular floating disk with an upper, diagonally aligned skirt surface that leads to a circular recessed cavity coaxially aligned with the scoring pole. Attached to the scoring pole is an elevated lid which creates a narrow gap between the lid and the top rim of the floating base. In another embodiment, the floating base is a partially submerged rim with radially aligned spokes and a center hub designed to receive the scoring pole. During use, a specially designed aquatic disk is given to one team whose objective is to throw the aquatic disk at the opposing team's scoring pole. If the aquatic disk contacts the scoring pole or is retained in the recessed cavity, a point is awarded to the offensive team or against the defensive team.
US07775911B2 Apparatus and method for training players in sports
A ball-like target, which may be an actual ball used in playing a sport to be taught, for example in teaching batting to trainees, is attached to a rod, so that the trainer can precisely control the target's speed and attitude of the target during the entire course of presentation to a trainee. On the one hand, the target, rod and connecting mechanism are rigidly interconnected so that the trainer has complete control over the speed and trajectory of the presentation of the target. But on the other hand, the construction is such that the apparatus may be repeatedly struck by the trainee's bat at any speed, from slow to “full swing-away” without any substantial damage to the apparatus. In this manner the trainee can be quickly taught the eye-hand coordination and other skills needed to become an accomplished hitter.
US07775908B2 Golf balls having two core layers formed from HNP compositions
The present invention is directed to golf balls consisting of a dual-layer core and a cover. The core consists of a layer formed from a relatively soft HNP composition and a layer formed from a relatively hard HNP composition. The relatively soft HNP composition has a material hardness of 55 Shore D or less and comprises a highly neutralized ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid/alkyl (meth)acrylate copolymer. The relatively hard HNP composition has a material hardness of 45 Shore D or greater and comprises a highly neutralized ethylene/(meth)acrylic acid copolymer. The cover preferably consists of a single cover layer.
US07775907B2 Method for manufacturing golf club head
A method for manufacturing a hollow golf club head is disclosed, wherein a metallic main frame provided with a top opening and a bottom opening, a metallic crown plate and a metallic sole plate are prepared. The sole plate is placed in the bottom opening. A die is inserted into the inside of the main frame through the top opening. A protrusion of the sole plate is crushed onto the edge portion of the main frame around the bottom opening, by the use of the inserted die. Then the top opening is closed by the crown plate. The specific gravity SGm and proof stress YSm of the main frame, the specific gravity SGs and proof stress YSs of the sole plate, and the specific gravity SGf of the face plate satisfy: SGf=
US07775906B2 Golf club
A golf club has a shaft, and a head of a hollow structure fixed to an end of the shaft to be set to have a predetermined lie angle and a predetermined loft angle with respect to a reference horizontal plane. The head has a face portion which includes a ball hitting surface by which a ball is hit, a crown portion, a side portion, and a sole portion. A rib is provided at a part, which is lower than a central part of the face portion, on an inner surface of the face portion to protrude toward the center of the head.
US07775899B1 Method and apparatus for executing repeatable golf swings
The present invention helps golfers consistently execute the ideal golf swing. To consistently execute the ideal swing, golfers must consistently align the shafts of their clubs at the ideal angle with respect to the horizontal at setup, prior to executing the swing. The present invention helps golfers set their clubs at the ideal angle by attaching an angle indicating device to the club that indicates the angle of the club with respect to the horizontal. The preferred embodiment of the angle indicating device is a small, lightweight circular bubble level, that has angle markings around its edge, and quickly clips onto an off of the golf club. The angle indicating device is sufficiently small and lightweight that it does not affect the golfers swing. The same device may be used on different golf clubs to show the desired angle for the club in use.
US07775897B2 Mechanical semi-automatic tee-up device and method
An automatic tee-up device including a golf ball reservoir, a platform with a groove for a golf ball to travel from the reservoir to a tee, and a ball ejector disposed to eject golf balls one at a time from the reservoir onto the groove. The tee is movable from below a level of the golf ball in the groove to above the level of the golf ball in the groove. After the golf ball is ejected by the ejector, the golf ball travels on the groove to the tee and is raised by the tee into a position suitable for striking with a golf club.
US07775896B2 Methods and systems for self-contained floating marine parks
A water transportation system and method are described, generally related to water amusement attractions and rides. Further, the disclosure generally relates to water-powered rides and to a system and method in which participants may be actively involved in a water attraction. This transportation system comprises at least two water stations and at least one water channel connecting the at least two water stations for the purpose of conveying participants between the at least two water stations. In addition, a floating water park positioned in a body of water is described, as well as, a floating marine park. A floating marine/water park may include one or more floating containers positioned in a body of a first fluid. One or more of the floating containers may function to hold a second fluid, marine life, and/or participants in water amusement activities. A water transportation system may include a floating marine/water park.
US07775895B2 Water amusement park water channel and adjustable flow controller
A water amusement ride system is disclosed. The system may include a first channel of water. The first channel may function to convey participants in a first direction. The system may include a second channel of water. The second channel may function to convey participants in a second direction. The second direction may be different from the first direction. The system may include a first adjustable flow controller positioned in the first channel of water. The system may include a third channel coupling the first channel, upstream of the first adjustable flow controller, to the second channel. The first adjustable flow controller may function at least in part to control the flow of water through the third channel. The system may be part of a continuous water ride.
US07775891B2 Boot for joint
A boot for a joint, wherein an equal-diameter part and thick-walled parts are formed on the inner peripheral wall of a large diameter tube part. A first tapered part extending from the equal-diameter part is continued with a second tapered part formed at the thick-walled parts in the circumferential direction. The diameter reducing ends of the first tapered part and the second tapered part are located at the same position, and a thin-walled part engaged with an annular groove formed in the outer member of a constant-velocity joint is continued with the diameter reducing end.
US07775888B2 Gaming device having a movable top box
Various embodiments disclosed herein are directed to gaming machines having movable top boxes. According to one embodiment, the gaming machine includes a main cabinet having a first display for presenting a game and an extendable top box coupled to the top of the main cabinet. In one embodiment, the top box includes a front surface and an opposite back surface. The top box abuts the top of the main cabinet in a first position, and the top box is in a vertical position away from the top of the main cabinet in a second position.
US07775883B2 Video actuated interactive environment
A surface-based interactive environment that utilizes low cost equipment to create a highly interactive environment for participants. The game can include electronic versions of traditional games, such as air hockey, football, soccer, and the like. The game can also include one or more electronically generated characters with whom the participants can interact. The system utilizes a high-mounted projector to create the game environment and/or generate the characters. A remotely mounted infrared light source and infrared camera are used to detect the participants as they move around within the interaction area of the game.
US07775881B2 Gaming apparatus having a configurable control panel
A gaming method for facilitating game play via a gaming apparatus is provided. The gaming apparatus may include a value input device, a first display unit, and a configurable control panel unit. The configurable control panel unit may include a second display unit and a touch screen unit associated with the second display unit. A value input may be received from a player via the value input device, and the first display unit may be caused to display a first game display relating to one of the following games: poker, blackjack, slots, keno or bingo. One of a plurality of player input displays may be selected, and the second display unit may be caused to display the selected one of the plurality of player input displays. Player input data associated with the selected one of the plurality of player input displays may be received via the touch screen unit, and a value payout associated with an outcome of the game may be determined.
US07775880B2 Pari-mutuel sports wagering system
This invention relates to sports and event wagering, particularly to a new sport and event wagering game and system. This game and supporting system allows pari-mutuel wagering with respect to new areas other than horse or dog racing, which will expand the sports wagering industry to encompass new areas of interest and enjoyment to bettors. Specifically, pari-mutuel wagering is enabled with respect to the performance statistics of individual sport or event participants, combinations of sport participants, combinations of event participants, and sport teams. This wagering game is supported by an electronic system, which allows interaction with the game via various communications methods, remotely or in-person, which can allow or restrict wagering activity based upon bettor location.
US07775879B2 Method and apparatus for providing insurance policies for gambling losses
A system and method for providing a gambling loss insurance policy automatically computes insurance premiums and processes gambling sessions covered by the gambling loss insurance policies. The players may purchase the insurance policies using various means such as coins, earned winnings, or credit cards. The gambling loss insurance system provides a high level of flexibility for the players to define specific parameters of the insurance policy. Additionally, the players may purchase the insurance policies directly from the gaming machine, a custom terminal on casino floor, or cage personnel having access to a centralized network server.
US07775876B2 Method and apparatus for tracking game play
The invention is a method for tracking activities at a gaming machine and a system for player tracking. One embodiment of a method comprises generating data regarding individual activities associated with the operation of a gaming machine, transmitting the generated activity data to a remote location, storing the data at the remote location, and mining or manipulating the stored data based on one or more characteristics or criteria and generating an output. In one embodiment, the data is mined and the output is represented graphically, such as in a three-dimensional graph. In one embodiment, the generated data includes information regarding the identify of the player associated with the event, and the stored individual event data is mined to determine if the player has met criteria entitling the player to an award or “comp” separate from the awards provided by the gaming machine.
US07775873B2 Wagering game with shared payoff based on multiple player selections
The present invention is directed to a gaming terminal and a method of playing a wagering game at a gaming terminal whereby multiple players make selections and accumulate bonus awards as the game is passed from one player to another. Play continues until a game-terminating object is selected. At that time, each player that participated in the wagering game receives his or her accumulated awards plus any awards won by subsequent players.
US07775871B2 Apparatus and method for a gaming unit that changes with time
An electronic gaming unit for allowing a user to play a video gambling game, may generally include a time generator that may a time signal and the video gambling game may adapt in response to the time signal. The electronic gaming unit may further include a currency-accepting mechanism that is capable of allowing the user to deposit a medium of currency and a controller operatively coupled to the display unit and the input device.
US07775867B2 Storage medium storing a game program, game apparatus, and game control method
A game apparatus includes an LCD and a touch panel is provided on the LCD. On the LCD is displayed a game screen on which objects of different types are disposed so as to be aligned in a reticular pattern. By a player touching a desired object, a three-dimensional location of the object is set as a point of gaze of a virtual camera. Then, by the player moving a touch location, the location of the virtual camera (viewpoint) is changed according to the movement. In a virtual space, different layers are provided for the different types of objects. The objects are disposed so as not to overlap with each other between the different layers. When the viewpoint is fixed and a plurality of objects of different types intersecting a line of sight or a line parallel to the line of sight satisfy a predetermined condition, the objects are deleted.
US07775865B2 Set and forget exhaust controller
A controller automatically determines drive signals by testing an exhaust system, either immediately after installation or at selected times thereafter, to determine the drive signal values that correspond to each of one or more selected flow rates. The drive signals are stored. Thereafter, the controller uses the stored values of drive signals to control the exhaust system. This avoids problems with real time control such as drift or failure of sensors and such which are very common in commercial exhaust installations.
US07775864B2 Coin processor
A coin processor according to the present invention includes a temporary storage portion that temporarily stores coins, and the temporary storage portion includes: a conveyor belt; a one side conveyor guide that is disposed on one edge side of the conveyor belt in a width direction thereof; an other side conveyor guide that is disposed on an other edge side of the conveyor belt in the width direction with a spacing narrower than a diameter of a coin to be stored between the one side conveyor guide and the other side conveyor guide, and that slopes upward toward outside in the width direction; a drive portion that drives the conveyor belt; and a stacking surface guide that is provided at one end portion of the conveyor belt in a lengthwise direction thereof, and that slopes upward toward outside of the conveyor belt in the lengthwise direction.
US07775852B2 Apparatus and method for in-situ endpoint detection for chemical mechanical polishing operations
An apparatus and method of chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) of a wafer employing a device for determining, in-situ, during the CMP process, an endpoint where the process is to be terminated. This device includes a laser interferometer capable of generating a laser beam directed towards the wafer and detecting light reflected from the wafer, and a window disposed adjacent to a hole formed through a platen. The window provides a pathway for the laser beam during at least part of the time the wafer overlies the window.
US07775850B2 Water toy
To provide a water toy with which infants can play joyfully in a bathroom, which is easy to be fixed in place and which prevents the infants from losing their interests in playing therewith, there is provided a water toy including a pedestal portion having a pump, a circular cylindrical shaped column fixed to an upper portion of the pedestal portion, which includes a water flowing tube in an interior and a water outlet port at an upper end thereof, a spiral water flowing rail fixed to a circumferential edge of the column, a first water flowing rail detachably coupled to a lower end of the spiral water flowing rail, which includes a windmill portion having a rotor turned by using a flow of water, a second water flowing rail detachably coupled to a lower end of the first water flowing rail while being fixed onto an auxiliary fixing base, a third water flowing rail detachably coupled to a lower end of the second water flowing rail, a fourth water flowing rail detachably coupled to a lower end of the third water flowing rail, and a sliding element which slides on water flowing surfaces of the respective rails.
US07775849B2 Fencing, shooting and squirting toy
A toy fencing sword that is adapted to also fire its blade tip as a missile and to squirt water. The sword includes an internal piston activated by pulling and pushing the sword's handle to either fire the sword's tip as a missile or to inhale water and squirt it in a powerful stream. The sword is comprised of soft and buoyant materials which make it safe and painless during play and also make it ideally adapted for use in and around water, such as at a swimming pool.
US07775846B2 Method of manufacturing a flat panel display incorporating a power supply layer and a storage capacitor element
A flat panel display device which is capable of preventing in-line shorts by forming as a face plate a common power line impressing an equal power supply to all pixels. The flat panel display includes a power supply layer formed on an insulation substrate and connected with source/drain electrodes through contact holes; and an insulating layer formed with a contact hole to insulate the power supply layer and a thin film transistor, wherein the thin film transistor is formed over the insulating layer and includes the source/drain electrodes.
US07775844B2 Electronically assisted reverse gate system for a jet propulsion watercraft
An electronically assisted reverse gate system for a jet propulsion watercraft is provided. Control electronics are in communication with the operator interface of the watercraft to obtain commands from the operator, such as a selection between a forward, reverse or neutral mode, a braking command or a slow mode. The control electronics evaluates the target setting for these commands. This evaluation is made taking into consideration the operating conditions of the watercraft. Control signals are sent to an appropriate actuating device to adjust the gate orientation accordingly.
US07775842B2 Crimping structure and crimping method
A crimping structure for a conductor utilizes a crimp barrel, wherein the crimp barrel has a plurality of crimping parts that are provided continuously along an axial direction of the conductor. The crimp barrel is formed such that the widths of the plurality of crimping parts are different from each other in the expanded state, and the plurality of crimping parts are compressed to a uniform height along the axial direction.
US07775841B2 Hyperboloid electrical contact
A hyperboloid contact socket includes a tubular body of metal or other suitable conductive material. The tubular body includes first and second ends. The first end includes a lip defining an aperture entrance for receiving a mating pin terminal. At the second end of the tubular body, a spline is crimped or otherwise affixed to the confronting end of the tubular body. The spline has an integral termination extending therefrom. The tubular body contains a plurality of conductive wires affixed at their respective ends to respective inner surfaces at or near the outer and inner ends of the body and disposed in an angular disposition to form the shape of a single sheet hyperboloid. Permanent and conductive attachment of the wires to the tubular body and the spline is provided through deformation of the body by rolling, crimping, swaging or other suitable means.
US07775840B2 Female connector terminal with internal plate spring
A female connector terminal into which a rectangular male connector terminal is to be inserted includes a hollow conductor having a rectangular engagement portion for inserting the male connector terminal; a protrusion arranged at the engagement portion of the conductor and brought into contact with the male connector terminal; and a plate spring arranged at the conductor engagement portion to face the protrusion so as to sandwich the male connector terminal together with the protrusion. The plate spring has an abutment portion formed by bending a plate member and is brought into abutment with both sides of the male connector terminal contact surface which is brought into contact with the plate spring.
US07775837B2 Electrical connector with improved clip member
An electrical connector includes an insulating housing defining a receiving cavity opening forwards for receiving a mating plug in a mating direction and a mounting face, a plurality of contacts retained in the insulating hosing and having contacting portions projecting into the cavity, and a clip member retained in a rear portion of the housing and having a connecting portion and a pair of resilient arms extending from two opposite ends of the connecting portion. The two resilient arms and the connecting portion each define a clamping portion respectively to retain the mating plug in the receiving cavity.
US07775835B2 Electrical card connector
An electrical card connector (100) includes a metal shield (1), an insulated housing (2) and a terminal module (3) having a plurality of terminals (33) received therein. The metal shield covers the insulated housing to define a card receiving room and a card insertion/ejection direction. The insulated housing defines a receiving cavity (24, 25) and forms an elastic piece (26). The terminal module is slidably received in the receiving cavity of the insulated housing along the card ejection direction and is fixed in the insulated housing by the elastic piece.
US07775833B1 High speed intelligent cable
The high speed intelligent cable provided herein is multifunctional, lightweight, flexible and re-configurable. The cable assembly includes a low profile ribbon cable of multiple conductors. Built-in health indicators provide user assessment of, for example, connectivity. Active electronics and embedded intelligent firmware provide various functions, to include built-in test performance capability. Ready cable reconfiguration for system integration, or for other needs, is facilitated by logic and switching circuitry. Still further, built-in automatic multi-functional cable testing may include automatic reconfiguration. Testing and reconfiguration can be remotely activated. The cable described herein can reduce time and manhours needed for testing, installation, and maintenance. The lightweight multi-functional cable makes a positive contribution to the function/mass payload ratio in complex and mass-sensitive applications.
US07775830B2 Connector with metal fixing element and electronic device having the same
A connector including an insulating housing, a plurality of signal terminals, and at least a metal fixing element is provided. The signal terminals are disposed in the insulating housing, wherein a portion of each signal terminal is protruding out from the insulating housing. The metal fixing element has an inserting part and a fixing part connected to the inserting part. The inserting part is inserted in the insulating housing, and the fixing part is protruding out from the insulating housing at a same side with the signal terminals. The connector is suitable for welding on a circuit board through the fixing part.
US07775825B2 Cable connector assembly having strain relief member for cable
A cable connector assembly (100) in accordance with the present invention includes a housing (1), a terminal (2), a sleeve (5), and a strain relief member (7). The housing includes a mating end (11), a soldering end (12), and a passage formed through the mating and soldering ends. The terminal is received in the passage of the housing and includes a mating portion (21) exposed in the mating end and a soldering portion (22) extending beyond the soldering end of the housing and soldered to a cable (3). The sleeve is mounted to enclose a contact junction (8) between the cable and the terminal, and the strain relief member is molded over a part of the cable and the sleeve.
US07775824B2 Connection device and method for its use
Embodiments of the present invention provide a connection device for the transmission of optical and/or electrical signals, specifically for medical purposes, featuring a cable and a coupling element, which is designed to couple to a matching counterpart on the coupling side. The coupling side exhibits an inner part, having a connecting element for connection to the cable, and an outer part, with the outer part being detachably attached to the inner part. The outer part is capable of being detached from the inner part prior to use of the connection device involving the passage of the connection device through an area of the human body.
US07775814B1 System and method for providing a removable isolator for high current connections
Shipment and storage of systems poses integrity and economical issues. Such systems may require substantial packaging to protect components of the system during shipment and storage. Some components, such as a battery, may need to be separated from the system during shipment to prevent either actual or perceived damage by the user of the system. A battery directly connected to a system may discharge so as to be incapable of providing sufficient power to the system. Users may erroneously believe that the system is defective and place unnecessary service calls. Such service calls increase costs and affect future business activity. Configuring the terminals of high current connectors coupled to the battery and the system allow for an isolator to be inserted between the high current connectors to prevent conduction while allowing the connectors to mate which results in feasibly shipping the battery in tact within the system.
US07775813B1 Electrical outlet with lateral connection
A safety electrical outlet includes a socket body containing at least two electrical contacts, a pivotally mounted socket cap with at least two apertures and a safety mechanism that holds the socket cap in a first position where the apertures are not aligned with the electrical contacts. The socket cap is released when plug prongs are inserted, allowing the socket cap to be rotated so that the prongs can engage the contacts in the second position.
US07775812B2 Connection device to which electric device is connected and having dust-proof function
The convenience of operation is improved and the occurrence of connection failure between a connection-target terminal of an electric appliance and a connection terminal is reduced without requiring a complicated arrangement such as a fitting structure. A microphone charging device has a dustproof shutter provided so as to be movable with a microphone device setting/drawing-off operation between a covering position covering a charging terminal portion and an exposure position exposing the charging terminal portion, a torsion spring applies a fundamental urging force to the shutter between the covering position and exposure position, and plate springs apply additional urging force to the shutter in addition to the fundamental urging force in an additional urging section provided between the covering position and exposure position and thereby sets the shutter in an additionally urged state. When the shutter reaches the exposure position, the plate springs release the shutter from the additionally urged state.
US07775809B2 Electrical power distribution apparatus with switch
In one embodiment, an electrical power distribution apparatus is disclosed which includes a track made up of a plurality of track sections connected together by/to joints and end sections. The track sections are each provided with a slot with which a power point connector may be engaged at any point by inserting a contact member of the connector through the slot at a chosen point and then rotating the connector by 90 degrees to bring the contact member into engagement with electrical conductors, of the track. The apparatus may comprise a further conduit containing conductors used to distribute communication signals. Also included are a switch operable in response to rotation of the connector and a sound producer to indicate when the switch has reached one of its end positions.
US07775807B2 Electrical junction box
An electrical junction box has a casing for housing a circuit board on which electrically conductive paths are formed. Fuse-receiving sections in an upper wall of the casing are adapted to receive a mating member. Receiving ribs inward from an inside of a side wall of the casing at a position below the fuse-receiving sections to receive water that enters the casing from the fuse-receiving sections, guide ribs project inward from an inside of the side wall provided with the receiving ribs and extend from end edges of the receiving ribs to guide the water that is received on the receiving ribs to a bottom wall of the casing. A bottom wall of the casing defines drain holes.
US07775799B2 Glare reduction demonstrator
A glare reducing lens is demonstrated by a holder with a half-mirrored plate and a graphic image mounted on the holder at an angle to the plate. The plate has another graphic image positioned behind it and visible through the plate. The holder is adapted for movement on the base over a range of positions for convenient viewing by tall and short persons. Such positioning of the holder is controlled by mechanical interconnecting surfaces. The viewer sees the graphic image transmitted through the mirrored plate as well as a superimposed image reflected onto the mirrored plate from the separate graphic image. When a viewer does not use a glare reducing lens, the two images visually interfere with each other, while by viewing through a lens the reflected image is eliminated leaving the directly viewed graphic image sharp and clear.
US07775796B2 Bone-adaptive surface structure
The invention concerns bone-adaptive surface structures for lateral jaw implants. Micromechanical and/or macromechanical surface structures having various body forms are incorporated into selected segments of the surface of the base and of the bar that connects the threaded piece with the base to accelerate the healing process after the implant is inserted into the jaw bone and to make a critical improvement in holding the implant firmly in place without rotation.
US07775791B2 Method and apparatus for staged combustion of air and fuel
A method for operating a fuel-fired furnace including at least one burner is provided. The method includes channeling a first fluid flow to the at least one burner at a first predetermined velocity, and channeling a second fluid flow to the at least one burner at a second predetermined velocity during a first mode of operation of the at least one burner. The second predetermined velocity is different than the first predetermined velocity.
US07775789B2 Sprue bar shutoff device
An injection molding shutoff assembly that includes a chamber containing a movable body movable between rear and forward positions. In the rear position, the movable body provides a seal and prevents flow of molten plastic out the chamber inlet, called drool. When the movable body is in the forward position, one or more passages permit flow of the molten plastic around the movable body and to an exit in the chamber, leading to one or more molds. In an alternate embodiment, the apparatus also includes an elongate stem that maintains the movable body in the forward position allowing the injection molding system to decompress, thereby eliminating drool and decreasing downtime.
US07775788B2 Melt transfer components for a stack molding system
A stack molding apparatus is disclosed having a stationary mold platen and a movable mold platen defining a parting line. The apparatus has a melt transfer nozzle extending within a well in the stationary mold platen, the melt transfer nozzle defining a melt channel for receiving and transporting a melt stream. The apparatus also includes a melt transfer component having a spigot portion, a melt channel and an aperture in a sealing surface thereof, wherein the melt transfer component is fixedly attached to the stationary mold platen such that the sealing surface defines a portion of the parting line. The spigot portion is slidably fit within the melt channel of the melt transfer nozzle so that the melt channels are in fluid communication. When the stack molding apparatus is brought to an operating temperature, the melt transfer nozzle slides over the spigot portion to accommodate thermal expansion.
US07775784B2 Light-emitting diode packaging apparatus, mold base and supporting member thereof
A light-emitting diode packaging apparatus is disclosed, which is used for a supporting member having a plurality of supporting pieces to be inserted therein for the subsequent molding and packaging operations, including a mold base for a plurality of supporting pieces of a supporting member to be inserted therein, and a controller for inserting into the mold base and positioning the supporting member. This invention features forming a positioning foot at the periphery of at least one electrode pin of each of the supporting pieces, and also forming a corresponding first positioning aperture on the mold cup of the mold base for the positioning of the supporting pieces. The present invention also provides a mold base and supporting pieces for use with the light-emitting diode packaging apparatus.
US07775771B2 Quick assembly blade for a ceiling fan
A quick assembly blade for a ceiling fan includes a blade frame fixed inside with at least three studs respectively for a fastener to be inserted therein. A blade to be secured on the blade frame is bored with three assembling holes at the locations corresponding to the studs of the blade frame, and a clamping member made of elastic material is fixed on the blade. The clamping member is cut with three engage notches at the locations corresponding to the fasteners. The clamping member has its opposite sides compressed transversely to be received among the fasteners and, after released, the clamping member will recover its elastic force and have its engage notches respectively and quickly engaged on the fasteners, thus achieving effect of quickly and stably assembling the blade of the ceiling fan.
US07775769B1 Turbine airfoil fillet region cooling
A stator vane with a serpentine flow cooling circuit having a first leg extending along the leading edge of the vane to supply compressed cooling air to the vane, and a last leg extending along the trailing edge of the vane and connected to a row of exit holes to discharge cooling air out through the trailing edge region of the vane. Inner diameter and outer diameter turn manifolds connect the adjacent legs of the serpentine flow circuit. A local impingement cavity is formed within the fillet region of the outer endwall of the trailing edge portion of the vane, and is connected to the outer diameter turn manifold by a metering hole to provide cooling air from the serpentine flow circuit into the local impingement cavity. A plurality of cooling holes are connected to the local impingement cavity and discharge cooling air out the endwall through holes that extend around the airfoil trailing edge from the suction side to the pressure side of the airfoil.
US07775768B2 Turbine component with axially spaced radially flowing microcircuit cooling channels
An airfoil for a gas turbine engine component such as a turbine blade or a vane includes at least one microcircuit cooling channel having a plurality of sub-channels extending along a radial direction of the airfoil. The plurality of channels are axially spaced, and are fed by radially spaced inlets.
US07775765B2 Fluid pump
A pump pulley is supported on a pump body via a bearing interposed between the outer peripheral surface of the pump body and the pump pulley so that the pump pulley can freely rotate relative to the pump body. A pump shaft extends along the rotation axis of the pump pulley into a pump chamber formed by a pump base and the pump body, and one end of the pump shaft is fitted to the pump pulley and the other end is fitted to an impeller located within the pump chamber. A body side seal member and a shaft side seal member that form a mechanical seal to maintain the leak tightness of the pump chamber are in opposite to and contact each other in the direction of extension of the pump shaft to form a seal surface, and the plane that includes the load support center of the bearing and the plane that includes the seal surface of the mechanical seal are substantially coincidental.
US07775763B1 Centrifugal pump with rotor thrust balancing seal
A centrifugal pump or compressor with a labyrinth seal that produces an axial thrust balance when the impeller shifts in the axial direction due to fluid pressure forces acting on the impeller, and a process for reducing the axial thrust imbalance by regulating the fluid leakage from a front pressure cavity of the pump. The impeller includes a front face that forms part of a front pressure cavity in which fluid pressure acts that produces a thrust imbalance on the impeller. A labyrinth seal with a plurality of teeth is formed between the housing and the front face of the impeller near the impeller inlet. The teeth form gaps with lands formed on the impeller face, where the lands are slanted and stepped such that axial displacement of the impeller changes the gap space to regulate the fluid pressure acting in the front cavity. A self regulating fluid pressure is developed within the front cavity to produce a balancing force against the impeller.
US07775761B2 Systems and methods for tethered wind turbines
According to some embodiments, systems and methods for tethered wind turbines may be provided. In some embodiments, a system may comprise an airborne body extending horizontally along an axis between a first point and a second point, wherein the body is at least partially filled with a gas. The system may further comprise, for example, two or more vanes coupled to the body such that the vanes, when acted upon by a wind force perpendicular to the axis are operable to cause the body to rotate about the axis to generate a Magnus effect lifting force. According to some embodiments, the system may comprise one or more tethers coupled to anchor the body to a third point.
US07775757B2 Device for receiving and for transporting an article
A device for receiving and for transporting an article having a receiving plate which is slid under the article is provided in which the improvement involves a more effective way for an article to rest on the receiving plates during transportation. A more effective way for an article to rest on a receiving plate that is slid under the article is the addition of a hold down element.
US07775753B2 Transportation system for a wind turbine component, vehicle for a transportation system, displacement system, method of establishing a transportation or displacement and use thereof
A transportation system for a wind turbine component such as a wind nacelle or a section of a tubular wind turbine tower is provided, including a wind turbine component with a rigid structure. The system further includes at least two frame elements directly or indirectly connected to the rigid structure of the wind turbine component, where the at least two frame elements define a space enclosing the component. A a displacement system and a method of establishing a transportation or displacement system for a wind turbine component are also provided.
US07775748B2 Shield support
A shield support for underground mining has a slider and a roof bar between which a ram is arranged, with an inclination detector being provided with which the inclination of the roof bar can be measured.
US07775747B2 Multi-component retaining wall block
A multi-component segmented retaining wall (SRW) block that may form a mortarless retaining wall. Each SRW block includes an interlocking face unit and an anchor unit that together form a vertically oriented hollow core bounded by the inner walls of the face unit and the anchor unit. Each face unit and anchor unit pair are interlocked by complementary connector elements.
US07775742B2 Civil engineering compartmented roller
A roller for compacting a subsurface, in particular for road building, comprising a roller body with a central axis. The roller body is made up of a plurality of compartments (2), the compartments (2) being provided distributed in the circumferential direction around the central axis. In particular, each compartment (2) comprises at least one fluid chamber (3). More particularly, the fluid chambers (3) in the compartments (2) are in flow communication.
US07775741B2 Apparatus and method for surface finishing cured concrete
A method and apparatus for finishing cured concrete floors using a riding trowel to which large diameter pans are rotationally secured, the pans having abraders releasably secured to their undersides. The individual abraders are preferably individually removably secured to the pans by hook-and-loop fasteners, wherein the fasteners are selectively disposed on the flat bottom surfaces of the pans or within shallow depressions in the bottom surfaces of the pans. The riding trowel further comprises a vacuum system in fluid communication with a contained space formed by a shroud having a rigid upper portion and a flexible lower portion where it contacts the finished cured concrete floor surface.
US07775740B2 Concrete trowel steering system
A self-propelled concrete finishing trowel has a steering system that counteracts a portion of the load associated with operator manipulation of a steering handle. A steering linkage connects the steering handle to a rotor assembly. A steering assist mechanism, preferably including a torsion bar or a spring, imposes a preload on the steering linkage to reduce handle actuation forces. The steering assist mechanism reduces handle retention forces, required to maintain the handle in a particular position after moving the handle to that position, to less than about 20 lbs throughout the stroke of the operating handle.
US07775730B2 Method for detecting failure of a paper detector in a roll paper printer, and roll paper printer having control for detecting failure of a paper detector
The roll paper printer of the subject invention has a control to detect failure of a paper detector in accordance with a method for detecting such failure. The printer 1 is constructed so that the paper transportation path is open when the cover 3 to the roll paper compartment 10 is open and includes a paper detector 40 and a control unit 30 to determine if the paper detector 40 is faulty. A failure warning is provided by a warning indicator 7(S7, 8) to indicate failure of the paper detector 40 when the cover 3 has been open continuously for at least a first set time (S6) and the output state of the paper detector 40 has not changed even once to a no-paper state within the first set time. Preferably, the printing operation of the printer 1 is disabled upon determining that the paper detector 40 is faulty to permit replacement of the paper detector. Problems attributable to paper detector failure, such as soiling the platen with ink can thus be prevented.
US07775729B2 Developing apparatus, developing processing method, developing processing program, and computer readable recording medium recording the program
A developing apparatus, a developing processing method, a developing processing program, and a computer readable recording medium recording the program, which can reduce the consumption amount of the developing solution and the developing processing time irrespective of the type of resist materials or the shape of resist patterns, are provided. A step of horizontally holding a substrate and rotating the substrate around a vertical axis at a prescribed rotation rate, and a step of intermittently supplying a developing solution to a center of the substrate from a discharge port of a developing solution nozzle arranged opposing to the surface of the substrate are executed. In the step of intermittently supplying the developing solution to the center of the substrate, an intermittence time and a substrate rotation rate in the intermittence time are set to prevent the developing solution supplied to the substrate from drying.
US07775728B2 Focal plane shutter for cameras
A focal plane shutter for cameras includes: a shutter blade assembly; an electromagnet assembly; driving means that includes a mounting member mounted with an iron scrap member that cooperates with an iron core member of the electromagnet assembly; and a setting member that operates the driving means to a set position. The iron scrap member includes a shaft fitted in a mounting hole of the mounting member, an iron scrap portion provided at one end of the shaft and brought into contact with the iron core member, and a removal preventing flange provided at the other end of the shaft, a collar member is fitted to the shaft between the mounting hole and the flange, an edge of the mounting hole is formed to have an arcuate surface protruding toward the collar member, and the collar member is formed to have, on the edge side, an arcuate surface protruding toward the flange and substantially perpendicular to the arcuate surface.
US07775725B2 Single-channel expanded beam connector
A single-channel, expanded beam connector having a front and rear orientation and comprising: (a) a housing; (b) an outer sleeve at least partially contained by the housing; (c) a first inner sleeve disposed at least partially in the outer sleeve; (d) a ferrule disposed at least partially in the first inner sleeve; (e) a lens disposed at least partially in the first inner sleeve in front of the ferrule, wherein the lens and the ferrule have about the same outside first diameter which is just slightly less than that of the inside diameter of the first inner sleeve such that the ferrule and the lens are held in optical alignment in the first inner sleeve, and wherein the distal end of the outer sleeve extends beyond the inner sleeve to receive a second inner sleeve of a mating structure, the first and second inner sleeves having the same diameter which is just slightly less than the inside diameter of the outer sleeve such that the first and inner sleeves are aligned within the outer sleeve.
US07775721B2 Sealed roller bearing
A roller bearing which is sealed by a sealing washer that forms a rubbing seal and two gaps. As a result of positions which are spaced apart from one another in the axial direction of a pivot point and a center of mass of an elastic support part that bears the rubbing seal, the latter is loaded with an outwardly acting axial force in the event of an increased rotational speed as a result of the centrifugal force, with the result that the rubbing sealing lip is in contact with a lower force as the rotational speed increases.
US07775720B2 Bearing device
A bearing assembly comprises a bearing (200) having a central hole (250) and a shaft (280) received in the central hole. The bearing has at least one sloping inner surface (2522) facing to the shaft and around the central hole. A gap is formed between the sloping inner surface and shaft. A width of the gap is gradually reduced along an axial direction of the central hole. The central hole has two side holes (254, 255) each of which has a diameter smaller than that of a middle hole (252) of the central hole (250), wherein the sloping inner surface is located corresponding to the middle hole.
US07775713B2 Arrangement for dental imaging
An arrangement for dental imaging having an intraoral sensor, which receives radiation at the moment of exposure for providing image data. The intraoral sensor comprises a housing (1), which encloses a detector and electronics and an orientation sensor (5), which senses orientation of the intraoral sensor at the moment of imaging to provide orientation information. A display unit (6, 7) and data transfer elements (3, 4), are connected to the detector and electronics for transmitting the image data and orientation information to the display unit. The display unit has image processing software, which processes the image data and utilizes the orientation information relevant to the image data for having an image to be presented on a display unit shown the right way.
US07775712B1 Modified grid cabinet assembly
A modified grid cabinet or “bucky” assembly intended for use with a digital imaging system and dimensioned and structured to retrofit a conventional film type x-ray device originally intended for use in combination with a conventional film bucky. The bucky assembly includes a frame having an at least partially hollow interior and a tray movably connected to the frame and slidably positionable between an outwardly extending open position and an inwardly disposed closed position. The tray is structured to support and position a digital sensor into an imaging position relative to the operative image capturing components of the digital imaging system. The tray includes a retaining assembly disposed and structured to removably retain the digital sensor in any a plurality of operative orientations including a portrait orientation and a landscape orientation.
US07775711B2 Temperature measurement device and measurement method
An exemplary temperature measurement device includes a reference voltage source, a three-wire thermal resistor, a voltage drop amplifier, an operational amplifier and compensation resistors. By using connecting wires with resistance values of the compensation resistors, a relation between an output signal and a resistance of the thermal resistor gives rise to a monotonous function, which is independent of the resistances of the connecting wires. After A/D conversation of an output signal, the resistance of the thermal resistor and a temperature can be calculated based on known functions. Therefore, within an entire measurement range and any length of cable, an influence of the wire resistances can be compensated without switches or jumpers.
US07775694B2 Vehicle interior illumination lamp unit
A vehicle interior illumination lamp unit includes: a designed unit disposed on a lower side of a ceiling plate of a vehicle; and a functional unit disposed on an upper side of the ceiling plate of the vehicle and coupled to the designed unit. A spacer insertion space is provided on an outside of an operation plate of the functional unit, and an insertion plate portion of the spacer is inserted into the spacer insertion space, whereby engagement between an engagement hook and an engaged portion is inhibited from being released by an impact.
US07775688B2 Reflector device for a lighting device
A reflector device for a lighting device, having a reflector element that has a light emission side and a back side facing away from the light emission side. From the back side to the light emission side, at least one mounting opening is provided, through which an electrically conductive connection element is intended to be passed by its second end region and coupled with the reflector element. The connection element, in turn, serves the purpose of coupling to an individual lamp on the one hand and an electrical power source on the other, and in its first end region it has means for securing the reflector device in a retention device. It furthermore has a third region, adjoining the first end region, that has a round diameter in cross section, and this diameter does not increase between the third region and the second end region. The mounting opening and the connection element are structurally adapted to one another in such a way that the connection element cannot be passed all the way through the mounting opening.
US07775684B2 Wavelength selective element, manufacturing apparatus for manufacturing wavelength selective element, manufacturing method for manufacturing wavelength selective element, light source device, image display device, and monitor
A wavelength selective element includes: a base member; light selective regions formed in the base member, in which a predetermined selective wavelength is selected from the laser light emitted from a plurality of light emission elements that emit the laser light; and interference regions, each of which is provided in one of the light selective regions, each of which includes interference fringes having streaks, and including at least a first interference region and a second interference region in which a first distance between streaks of the interference fringes of the first interference region is different from a second distance between streaks of the interference fringes of the second interference region.
US07775683B2 Mechanical mounting for maze attraction
A mounting mechanism for a laser or reflector may consist of a gross adjustment mechanism and a fine adjustment mechanism. The gross adjustment mechanism may enable a laser or reflector to be oriented in an approximate orientation and locked in place. The fine adjustment mechanism may enable a fine and precise adjustment to be applied. The mounting mechanisms may include a mounting plate that may mount to the surface of a wall and protect the rest of the mounting mechanism from disruption, but may also allow the fine adjustment mechanism to be tuned. The mounting mechanisms may be used to create a durable yet easily adjustable laser maze amusement.
US07775682B2 Seven colors light emitting module and seven colors decorating lamp string including the same
A seven-color light emitting module and a seven-color decorating lamp string comprising the same. The seven-color light emitting module includes a lampshade made of a transparent plastic or synthetic resin, and a lamp socket on which three colors self-flashing light emitting diode, a zener diode, a current limiting resistance and a double-side printed circuit board (PCB) are sealed. The three colors light emitting diodes connect with PCB and connect with the zener diode in parallel. One end of the zener diode or two ends of the zener diode connects with the current limiting resistance in series. A transparent epoxy resin or silicon glue is filled in the lampshade. The seven-color decorating lamp string include a power supply plugs, a power supply module which has a PCB and a rectifying and filter circuit connected by wires and a plurality of said seven colors light emitting modules.
US07775670B2 Laser projection system
The present invention relates to a laser projection system (1) having means for reducing the coherence of a generated laser beam (3) in order to reduce the occurrence of annoying speckle artifacts in images produced by the system. Coherence is reduced by letting the laser beam (3) pass through a transparent cell (6) comprising first (A) and second (B) immiscible fluids having different refractive indices. The fluids are displaced in the cell, preferably using an electrowetting technique. The cell (6) may thus be realized as an electrowetting lens, which is driven with a pseudo random driving signal.
US07775665B2 Method for optically scanning objects
A method for clarifying an image of an object to perform a procedure on an object includes applying electromagnetic energy to the object to provide reflected and/or transmitted energy according to an interaction of the electromagnetic energy and the object, determining an image quality metric in accordance with the reflected and/or transmitted energy to provide a determined image quality metric, determining an image in accordance with the determined image quality metric to provide a determined image, and performing the procedure in accordance with the image quality metric and the determined image.
US07775663B2 Automatic lens design and manufacturing system
The present invention provides a method for designing and making a customized ophthalmic lens, such as a contact lens or an intraocular lens, capable of correcting high-order aberrations of an eye. The posterior surface of the customized contact lens is designed to accommodate the corneal topography of an eye. The design of the customized ophthalmic lens is evaluated and optimized in an optimizing routine using a computational model eye that reproduces the aberrations and corneal topography of an eye. The present invention also provides a system and method for characterizing the optical metrology of a customized ophthalmic lens that is designed to correct aberrations of an eye. Furthermore, the present invention provides a business model and method for placing an order for a pair of customized ophthalmic lenses.
US07775658B2 Frame for spectacles
Spectacles frame including a front component supporting a pair of lenses, two supporting temples each hinged by respective hinging elements to the front component, and cushioning and recall members associated with the hinging elements. Cushioning members include: elastic elements in an open seating, inside the respective temple bulk, configured so part of the elastic elements faces outside in the open seating, towards the front component; and a cursor element as an extension and completely inside the bulk of the respective temple, to slide longitudinally along it at the moment of opening-closing of the respective temple relative to the front component, and having a second surface, or external surface, contacting the front component, and a first surface, or internal surface, opposite the second surface, on which the part of the elastic elements facing outside in open seating acts, to keep the cursor element normally thrusting against the front component.
US07775657B2 Method for defining a supplementary face for spectacles
A method for defining a supplementary face for spectacles (or clip-on), comprising the steps of: i) choice of a lens suited to the wearer's prescription; ii) modelization of the position of the chosen lens and of the position of a supplementary face in front of the chosen lens; iii) choice of an optical function for the assembly of the chosen lens and supplementary face; iv) calculation of the characteristics of the supplementary face by optical optimization for a standard wearer, using the chosen optical function as optimization target. A supplementary face for spectacles, having: i) a detachable mounting device, suited to the detachable mounting of the supplementary face in front of a lens mounted in the spectacles; ii) a surface at least equal to the surface of the lens and iii) a continuous optical power variation over this surface.
US07775655B2 Printing system with a data capture device
Provided is a printing system for producing wallpaper. The printing system includes a frame, a cabinet on the frame, the cabinet configured to receive replaceable ink reservoirs and cartridges of blank wallpaper, and a pagewidth printhead arranged on the frame for printing images on the blank wallpaper. Also included are pilot guides for guiding the blank wallpaper fed from the cartridges via a media path defined in the cabinet past the pagewidth printhead to facilitate printing, and a dryer module configured to dry the printed wallpaper. The system further has a cutter module for cutting the printed wallpaper before the printed wallpaper is fed into a container which stores the wallpaper in a roll, and a data capture device configured to capture the identity of an identifier carried by a print sample. The printhead is configured, subsequent to the capture of the identity of the print sample, to print the pattern which corresponds to the print sample.
US07775653B2 Inkjet recording method and recorded matter
An inkjet recording method for producing a black image on a recording medium by using an ink set having two or more types of ink compositions including at least one black ink composition and at least one color ink composition, wherein the recording medium has a recording surface with a 20-degree specular gloss value as defined by JIS Z8741 of 10% or larger, and an image clarity value as defined by JIS K7105 of 15-95%; and wherein the discharged weight of the black ink composition upon producing the black image is 0-10 weight % in proportion to the total discharged weight (100 weight %) of the ink composition discharged upon producing the black image.
US07775648B2 Cartridge for an in-vehicle information retrieval system
This invention provides for a disposable print cartridge for an in-vehicle information retrieval system. The system includes a video output module, a display facility and a printer controller for a printer. The cartridge includes a base molding with a cover operatively locating a stack of paper therein and together defining a paper feed slot through which a sheet of such paper can be fed. A platen is housed within the molding and is biased via a plurality of leaf springs engaging a floor of the base molding for urging the stack of paper against the cover. The cartridge also includes an ink supply reservoir having an ink supply molding formed integrally with the base molding, the ink supply molding defining a number of ink channels each closed off by a flexible bladder-like membrane, the ink channels in fluid communication with a respective ink outlet.
US07775642B2 Docking port in a cover assembly
This invention relates to a cover assembly for a cradle unit of a pagewidth print engine. The cover assembly defines a docking port for a refill unit configured to refill a cartridge unit of the print engine. The cartridge unit is housed in the cradle. The docking port includes a rim portion, engagement means and a push rod. The rim portion is for receiving a base portion of the refill unit so that the refill unit is able to pass through the cover assembly, in use, to dock with the cartridge unit. The engagement means is located within the rim portion, the engagement means being configured to engage the refill unit to retain the refill unit securely in position to facilitate refilling of the cartridge unit. The push rod extends through a hole in the rim portion for operatively actuating the refill unit to incrementally dispense ink.
US07775641B2 Liquid ejecting head
There is provided a liquid ejecting head which can introduce a liquid in a liquid storage member to a pressure chamber side via a liquid flow path from a liquid introducing needle and which can eject a liquid in the pressure chamber from a nozzle opening as a liquid drop by operation of a pressure generator. The liquid introducing needle constructed in a hollow needle shape includes an introducing needle portion in which a liquid introducing through hole for introducing a liquid in the liquid storage member is opened, and a cylindrical enlarged diameter straight portion formed at the downstream side of the introducing needle portion and whose inner diameter is enlarged than the inner diameter of the introducing needle portion. The inner space of the enlarged diameter straight portion is to be a bubble chamber which can store a bubble and the enlarged diameter straight portion includes a groove portion extending from the upstream side toward the down stream side on the inner circumference surface.
US07775638B2 Ink jet recording head and recording apparatus
A highly reliable, small-sized, and inexpensive ink jet recording head includes an electrical wiring member that is joined with a back surface of a liquid discharge substrate and includes a liquid supply port communicating with a liquid supply port of the liquid discharge substrate and an electrical connection portion connected to the electrode; and a holding member that holds the liquid discharge substrate through the electrical wiring member and includes a liquid supply port for supplying the liquid to the liquid supply port of the liquid discharge substrate. The liquid supply ports of the electrical wiring member, the liquid discharge substrate, and the holding member communicate with one another. A sealing agent for sealing the electrical connection portion is filled up between the liquid discharge substrate and the electrical wiring member, and a side surface of the liquid supply port of the electrical wiring member is covered with the sealing agent.
US07775635B2 Method of producing thermoelastic inkjet actuator
A method of producing a thermoelastic actuator assembly having desired operating characteristics includes determining a desired negative pressure pulse characteristic for the actuator, determining a heat dissipation profile corresponding to the desired negative pressure pulse characteristic, and forming the thermoelastic actuator with a heat conduction means arranged to realize the profile.
US07775630B2 Printhead integrated circuit with high droplet ejector density
A printhead integrated circuit (IC) with a planar array of droplet ejectors, each having data distribution circuitry, a drive transistor, a printing fluid inlet, an actuator, a chamber and a nozzle, the chamber being configured to hold printing fluid adjacent the nozzle so that the drive transistor activates the actuator to eject a droplet of the printing fluid through the nozzle. The array has more than 700 of the droplet ejectors per square millimeter. With a high density of droplet ejectors fabricated on a wafer substrate, the nozzle array has a high nozzle pitch and the printhead has a very high ‘true’ print resolution—i.e. the high number of dots per inch is achieved by a high number of nozzles per inch.
US07775629B2 Image recording apparatus
An image recording apparatus that includes: a conductive cable and an ink supply tube each of which is fixed to a carriage at one end thereof and to an apparatus body at the other end thereof and is routed to form a curved portion; and a turn supporting member including an arm, a carrying portion provided on the arm, and a holding portion provided on the arm. The holding portion slidably holds a predetermined part of the ink tube. The flat cable is slidably supported on the carrying portion. The arm is supported on a turn supporting point on the apparatus body located at an inner part of the curved portion of each of the flat cable and the ink tube and is led from the turn supporting point in a substantially horizontal direction.
US07775628B2 Inkjet printer
An inkjet printer includes: a print head; a print data storing unit; a print executing unit; a maintaining unit; a maintenance necessity determining unit; and a printing results inquiring unit. The print head is formed with one or more ink ejection opening. The print data storing unit stores inputted print data. The print executing unit executes a printing operation with the print head based on print data stored in the print data storing unit. The maintaining unit restores the ink ejection state of the print head. The maintenance necessity determining unit determines whether or not it is necessary to perform an operation for restoring the ink ejection state with the maintaining unit. The printing results inquiring unit inquires whether to allow the printing results of a printing operation executed by the print executing unit when the maintenance necessity determining unit determines that it is necessary to restore the ink ejection state of the print head. The print data storing unit stores print data at least until a response allowing the printing results is received in response to an inquiry by the printing results inquiring unit, or at least until the maintaining unit has executed an operation to restore the ink ejection state and the print executing unit has repeated the printing operation after the printing results inquiring unit has issued an inquiry.
US07775627B2 Inkjet printer assembly
An inkjet printer assembly includes a cartridge which has a pagewidth printhead integrated circuit (IC) and a printhead auxiliary member. The auxiliary member is operatively rotatable between a platen position, to support a printing medium proximate the IC, a blotting position, to blot the printhead IC, and a capping position, to cap the printhead IC. The assembly also includes a cradle configured to receive the cartridge such that the printhead IC is adjacent a media feed path. The cradle has a transmission assembly arranged selectively to engage and rotate the printhead auxiliary member. The assembly also includes a controller arranged to determine a performance characteristic of the cartridge and to operate said transmission assembly, printhead IC and printhead auxiliary member in response to the determined performance characteristic.
US07775624B2 Ejection restoration apparatus for liquid ejection head and image forming apparatus comprising ejection restoration apparatus
The ejection restoration apparatus for a liquid ejection head having a plurality of nozzles which are disposed in a planar nozzle surface and from which liquid is ejected, includes: a first suction cap which covers a partial region of the planar nozzle surface and which has a contact portion being constituted by an elastic body and making contact with the planar nozzle surface, the partial region being smaller than area of the planar nozzle surface in which the nozzles are disposed and being larger than cross-sectional area of one of the nozzles; a suction cap movement device which moves the first suction cap in parallel with the planar nozzle surface while causing the contact portion of the first suction cap to make contact with the planar nozzle surface; a nozzle abnormality detection device which detects an abnormal nozzle suffering an abnormality, in the nozzles; and a suction control device which causes the first suction cap to suction the liquid in the abnormal nozzle detected by the nozzle abnormality detection device, wherein the first suction cap is moved on the planar nozzle surface in a state where a space defined by the first suction cap and the planar nozzle surface is set to a pressure lower than an atmospheric pressure, so that the first suction cap fulfills both a wiping function and a suctioning function.
US07775613B2 Storage assembly
An assembly includes a housing, one or more telescoping brackets movably secured to the housing, and a door portion movably secured to the housing and the one or more telescoping brackets. A method for providing increased access to a storage compartment includes the steps of movably joining one or more telescoping brackets to a housing, movably joining a door portion to the one or more telescoping brackets and the housing, and moving the door portion to cause the one or more telescoping brackets to telescopingly project the door relative housing to provide access to a storage compartment.
US07775609B2 Brake control apparatus and method for vehicle
A brake control apparatus for a vehicle includes an actuator and a controller that controls the wheel cylinder pressure to a target hydraulic pressure by driving the actuator in response to a braking request. The controller sets a ceiling value for the rate at which the wheel cylinder pressure is changed in accordance with a temperature, and the wheel cylinder pressure is changed at a rate that is equal to or lower than the ceiling value.
US07775608B2 Method for controlling a brake pressure
A method for controlling a brake pressure in at least two wheel brakes preferably mounted on one axle of the vehicle, is performed during a braking operation on a road surface having a heterogeneous coefficient of friction.This method works as follows: A low coefficient of friction side and/or a high coefficient of friction side is detected, a stability index representing the driving state of the vehicle is formed, the stability index is evaluated on the basis of the low coefficient of friction side and/or of the high coefficient of friction side and the brake pressure is altered in at least one wheel brake as a function of the value of the stability index and as a function of the result of the evaluation of the stability index on the basis of the low coefficient of friction side and/or the high coefficient of friction side.
US07775601B2 Back structure for a chair
A rack structure for a chair includes a chair back member having a frame and a mounting support. The frame includes a support cushion disposed on the front side thereof for supporting a user's waist correspondingly. The frame further includes two first connecting tabs fixed on the back sides of the top ends of two sides thereof individually and two second connecting tabs formed on and extending from the two sides thereof respectively. The mounting support is fixed onto a base and extends upwardly therefrom. The mounting support includes two coupling segments and two connecting projections arranged on the top ends and the intermediate sections of two sides thereof respectively. Between each coupling segment and each connecting projection is couplingly attached a resilient member. The first and second connecting tabs of the frame are connected with the coupling segments and the connecting projections of the mounting support individually.
US07775600B2 Seating construction and method of assembly
A seating unit includes a rearwardly-open base frame with a pair of uprights on opposite rear side portions in spaced apart positions. A molded back has corner sections with cavities for matably telescopingly engaging the uprights, and a beam section extending between the corner sections for stabilizing the rear side portions when the molded back is engaging the uprights. A seat fastened to the base frame engages the molded back to retain the molded back on the upright sections. A cushion attached by a line of adhesive is perforated inward of the line, such that a majority of the cushion can be pulled off by tearing along the perforation line, allowing quick separation for recycling. The uprights have reduced an upper diameter for aesthetics but extend upwardly sufficiently to support armrest on the back.
US07775589B1 Upholstery mounting system and mechanism
An upholstery mounting system for an article of furniture with a furniture member, such as a chair back, and an upholstery backing member for being removably coupled to the furniture member. A plurality of mounting clips are fixed to one of the upholstery backing member and the furniture member, and a corresponding a plurality of mounting brackets are fixed to the other of the furniture member and the upholstery backing member. The mounting clips can have raised central portions that define apertures, and the mourning clips have elongate engaging members for being matingly received through the apertures in the mounting brackets for coupling the furniture member and the upholstery backing member. One mounting clip can have a longer elongate engaging member to facilitate alignment during coupling. A protuberance on each elongate engaging member can enable a mechanical engagement between the mounting brackets and the mounting clips.
US07775588B2 Seat structure, particularly for cycle and human body support frames
The present invention finds application in the field of support structures, and particularly relates to a seat structure, particularly for cycle and human body support frames. The structure comprises a support element (2) having a lower surface (4) and an upper surface (3), the latter being designed to support at least partially the weight of a user, and anchor means (5) associated to the support element (2) for anchorage thereof to a bicycle or human body support frame (T) in a longitudinally and/or angularly and/or vertically adjustable position. The anchor means (5) include at least one longitudinal extension (6), which extends downwards from said support element (2) and has at least one substantially horizontal member (7), designed to be clamped by at least one substantially horizontal clamping member (S), which is associated to the frame (T), and acts in a substantially vertical direction.
US07775586B2 Roof structure for a motor vehicle with a flange having a longitudinal supporting section
A roof structure for a motor vehicle, which has a roof-supporting roof frame, which is suitable to receive different roof modules, such as panoramic roofs, sliding roofs etc. The roof frame of the roof structure according to the invention has a surrounding flange directed towards the roof centre. The flange is additionally formed on the side of the vehicle such that it has a longitudinal supporting section, which extends parallel to the roof frame over the length of the roof frame from the free end of the flange in the direction of the center of the vehicle roof. The flange and the supporting section are formed in one piece according to the invention.
US07775580B2 Door glass guiding structure for vehicle
A door glass guiding structure is provided which can be constituted by using a glass guide member made from a low-priced material such as rolled sheet, and is capable of satisfactorily maintaining required functions.The door glass guiding structure 3 comprises the glass guide member 10 which is disposed between two door glasses supported side by side on a door for example, the side door 2) of the vehicle so as to guide the vertical movement of at least one of the door glasses, the core bracket 21 which is constituted of a member different from the glass guide member 10 and is mounted on top end of the glass guide member 10 so as to extend the length thereof upward, and the guide upper end seal member 13 attached to cover the external surface of the core bracket 21 so as to provide water-tight sealing on the top ends of the two door glasses.
US07775579B2 Top drive for a flexible vehicle roof
A top drive for a flexible vehicle roof which can be transferred from a closed position into a storage position and vice versa. At least one roof link is movable via a linear drive, the roof link and a fixed end of the linear drive being fastened to a main bearing of the top, wherein an actuating end of the linear drive is fastened pivotably to a throw-over lever which is fastened to the main bearing of the top and at the free end of which there is arranged a drive connecting rod which is fastened at a first end in an articulated manner to the free end of the throw-over lever and at a second end in an articulated manner to a section of the roof link, which section is spaced apart from the pivot point on the main bearing of the top, as a result of which a driving movement of the linear drive can be transmitted to the roof link.
US07775578B2 Removable power seat connector
A vehicle seat assembly adapted to be removably coupled to a floor in a vehicle is provided. An electrical component is mounted to the seat assembly. A riser assembly is also mounted to the seat assembly. A first electrical connector is mounted to the riser assembly and electrically coupled to the electrical component. A second electrical connector is adapted to be mounted to the floor. The first electrical connector linearly slidingly engages the second electrical connector as the seat assembly is secured to the floor for electrically coupling the first electrical connector with a vehicle power source.
US07775577B2 Vehicle seat arrangement
A vehicle seat arrangement, e.g., for a motor vehicle, includes a base seat part and a folding seat part, with the base seat part including a vehicle seat and a side part, and with the folding seat part and the side part forming a further vehicle seat or a part of a further vehicle seat.
US07775575B2 Power management system and method for photographic wireless communication
A system and method for setting the power operating condition of a photographic wireless communication device. An information representing a shutter speed of a camera body is detected from the camera body. A shutter speed of the camera body is determined from the information representing a shutter speed. The power operating condition of the photographic wireless communication device is automatically set based on the shutter speed of the camera body.
US07775573B2 Automatic deploying handle
A trim assembly is disclosed. The trim assembly includes a vehicular trim panel and a portion mounted to the vehicular trim panel that is movable between a stowed position and a deployed position relative the vehicular trim panel. The portion is defined to include a shape-changing polymer. The assembly also includes an energy transfer device that provides energy to the shape-changing polymer to cause movement of the portion between the stowed position and the deployed position. A method is also disclosed.
US07775572B2 Gripping tool with fluid grip activation
A gripping tool has at least one body, including an associated load adaptor adapted to be connected to and interact with one of a drive head or reaction frame. A gripping assembly, carried by the body, has a grip surface adapted to move from a retracted position to an engaged position to radially engage one of an interior surface or an exterior surface of a work piece upon relative axial displacement of the body relative to the grip surface in at least one axial direction. A fluid activated grip activation assembly acts between the at least one body and the grip surface. Axial movement of the load adaptor displaces fluid into a fluid chamber between the at least one body and the grip surface to create relative axial displacement of the at least one body relative to the grip surface.
US07775571B2 Bottom block assembly with pivoting trunnion paddles
A bottom block assembly for an overhead crane includes a main bottom block, an outer frame carried by the main bottom block and rotatable relative to the main bottom block about a vertical axis of rotation, and a pair of paddles carried by the outer frame and downwardly extending from the outer frame on opposed sides of the main bottom block. Upper ends of the paddles are pivotably secured to the outer frame about horizontal axes so that lower ends of the paddles pivot toward and away from each other. The paddles are pivotable between a closed position wherein each of the paddles is substantially vertical and an open position wherein the lower end of each of the paddles is outwardly pivoted away from a vertical central axis. Each of the paddles has a keyhole-shaped closed-section opening near its lower end.
US07775570B2 Pole-mounted hook device for electric utility applications
A hook device for coupling with a universal pole such as a utility pole or hot stick performs a plurality of functions including at least physically engaging a component of a utility device. The hook device has a base having an axis with a pole attachment for coupling with the universal pole. An arm extends from the base along the axis of the base at the arm's upper portion and bends at an elbow at a right angle extending in a forearm, which, together with the axis of the base define a first plane. A hook portion is connected to the forearm and has a geometry in a second plane at the first angle from the axis of the forearm. An end portion is connected to the hook portion and has the same axis as the forearm. A finger is angled from the axis of the forearm at the third angle and angled from the axis of the base at the second angle.
US07775567B2 Magnetic latching mechanism
A magnetic latch for a display of a laptop computer uses magnetic attraction to maintain the display closed and uses magnetic repelling forces to pop-up the display when opened. The latch includes one or more magnetic elements in the body of the laptop and at least one magnetic element in the display. When the display is closed, the magnet element in the display is positioned adjacent the magnet element in the body having an opposite polarity so that the magnet elements are attracted to one another. To pop-up the display, the user moves the magnetic element in the display so that it meets the magnetic pole in the body having the same polarity. When these meet, the repelling force between them causes the display to open slightly so that a user can then readily open the display.
US07775566B2 Push-button box-opening structure
A push-button box-opening structure is provided in which a push button is pushed in from an unlocking starting position to an unlocking position to open a storage box. The unlocking starting position is set at a position where the push button is pushed in a given depth from a pushing-in starting position so as to prevent inadvertent opening of the storage box. The storage box does not open when the button is inadvertently pushed in up to the given depth.
US07775563B2 Mortise lock for a sliding door
The two-point mortise latch of the present invention includes, a central actuator having teeth that are meshed with the teeth of a gear wheel, wherein the gear wheel and the central actuator are pivotally connected to at least one hook, via the hook arm. Wherein the top and bottom surfaces of the hooks have guide protrusions that are set in a guide their respective guide areas. The hooks are designed to contact the bottom interior surface of the keeper housing when latched. The central actuator and gear are meshed together via teeth. In addition, the central actuator and gear wheel are biased with springs so as to facilitate opening and closing of the door latch. The components of the present invention are retained inside of the housing, which is set inside the lock stile of a door.
US07775560B2 Pressure-pulsation-damping fluid supply conduit
Described herein is a pressure-pulsation-damping fluid supply conduit comprising: a flexible covering pipe, which has end portions opposite to one another; tubular elements having respective first axes and being connected to the end portions; respective couplings, connected to the tubular elements in such a way that they are free to rotate; respective flexible pipes, which have respective fixed portions connected to the respective couplings and respective free portions located radially facing one another.
US07775559B2 Apparatus to mechanically load a compression member
A compression generator uses a plurality of jackbolts threadedly engaged at a spaced apart relation about a bolt circle in a main core element. The main core element is releasable interlocked by threads, bayonet connection or other form of fasting system with the mounting element forming a fixed part of the mechanical connection. The jackbolts torqued to generate a pushing force in an axial direction for compressing a moveable part of the mechanical connection against a compression seat for forming a mechanical connection between juxtaposition fixed and moveable parts.
US07775558B2 Webbing holding device
A webbing holding device is proposed, which prevents or controls abrupt reduction in take-up speed when taking-up of webbing is completed. In the webbing holding device, when the webbing is released from being fitted over an occupant, the webbing is wound to a retractor by biasing force. Here, immediately before taking-up of the webbing is completed, a guide strap is stretched by movement of a leading end portion of the webbing toward the back side of a vehicle, and thus the guide strap applies biasing force to the leading end portion of the webbing, so that the take-up speed of the webbing is reduced. Therefore, when winding of the webbing is finished, take-up speed of the webbing being abruptly reduced may be prevented or controlled, and therefore extraction of the webbing from the retractor being locked by a lock mechanism of the retractor may be prevented or controlled.
US07775557B2 Personal restraint system
A personal restraint system for a seat in a motor vehicle including a three-point belt system and a two-point belt system. The three-point belt system including a first belt retractor, and a first belt web having a first belt latch plate, and a first belt buckle. The two-point belt system including a second belt retractor, and a second belt web having a second belt latch plate, and a second belt buckle. The second belt retractor including a blocking device which engages a spool of the second belt retractor when both belt webs are wound up on their respective retractors to prevent engagement of the two-point belt system if the three-point belt system is not engaged.
US07775555B2 Break-away pedal assembly
A vehicle includes a first structure, a pedal pivotably connected to the first structure for pivoting between rest and fully-applied positions, a control attachment connecting the pedal to a vehicle system to be controlled, a second structure located rearward of the pedal, and an engagement bracket connected to the pedal to engage the second structure upon rearward movement of the pedal during a vehicle frontal collision. The control attachment is connected to the engagement bracket and disengages from the pedal so that the pedal pivots independent of the control system when the engagement bracket strikes the second structure with a predetermined force. There is a constant distance between the engagement bracket and the second structure as the pedal pivots so that the position of the pedal does not affect the disengagement of the control attachment during the frontal collision.
US07775553B2 Vehicle occupant protection apparatus
A vehicle occupant protection apparatus for use in a vehicle includes an occupant-protecting expansion part caused to expand in the form of a curtain in the vehicle cabin along windows. The expansion part is attached to the vehicle body at two attachment points positioned forward and rearward of the windows. A tension line that joins the two attachment points is in a position where the expansion part is extended between the two points, and is positioned below the lower edges of the windows.
US07775552B2 Occupant restraint device for a motor vehicle
An occupant restraint device for a vehicle, including a side cheek protruding from a backrest of a vehicle seat. A supporting structure of the vehicle has an outer side facing an exterior space of the vehicle and an inner side facing away from the exterior space of the vehicle and facing the outer side of the side cheek. An airbag arranged in the vehicle seat is supported on the inner side of the supporting structure and exerts an opposing force on the outer side of the side cheek when the airbag is inflated, the force being directed onto the outer side of the side cheek. A pre-crash detection device for identifying an imminent application of force on the outer side of the supporting structure from the exterior space, the pre-crash detection device activating an expansion of the side cheek in an expansion direction along the supporting structure.
US07775546B2 Collapsing vehicle tow hook
A collapsible tow hook for a motor vehicle includes a housing attached to a vehicle structure, a bracket pivotally mounted on the housing, a tow loop attached to the bracket and adapted to receive a tow cable that pulls on the tow loop in a towing direction. An interlocking structure acts between the bracket and the housing to normally support the bracket against pivotal movement but is yieldable to permit pivotal movement of the bracket relative the housing upon the imposition of a load on the tow loop in a direction opposite to the towing direction so that the tow loop is pivoted to a collapsed position relative to the vehicle structure.
US07775544B2 Pin box assembly
A pin box assembly comprising a first portion, a second portion, a connective member disposed between the first portion and the second portion, the first portion comprising a torque portion, the torque portion comprising a bar disposed within a tube and at least one resilient member disposed between the bar and the tube, the bar fixedly connected to the first portion, the tube fixedly connected to the second portion, the resilient member compressible between the bar and the tube upon rotation of the bar with respect to the tube, a connective member fixedly connected to the tube and to the second portion, and a hitch member connected to the first portion for engaging a hitch on a towing vehicle.
US07775543B2 Recreational vehicle
A trailer of the type that is intended to be towed with a towing vehicle has a trailer body with an elevated front portion. The towing vehicle has a vehicle hitch assembly, and the trailer body has an elevated front portion, with a mounting arrangement extending downward from beneath the front portion. A reflector is integral with the front portion of the trailer body. The reflector faces forward and downward such that the driver of the towing vehicle may view the reflection of the vehicle hitch assembly and the mounting arrangement extending from the trailer body as the towing vehicle is backed up. This facilitates positioning the towing vehicle for connection to said trailer.
US07775541B2 Hitch adapter for towing a fifth wheel trailer
A wheeled vehicle including a platform portion having a mounting bracket for coupling a fifth wheel hitch to the vehicle. A pair of elongate frame members are located beneath the platform portion, and each having a lengthwise axis oriented substantially parallel to a forward direction of travel of the vehicle. A brace frame beneath the platform that is coupled between the pair of elongate frame members. The mounting bracket is secured to the brace frame and includes a stabilizer including a pair of elongate support arms joined by a cross-member. An anchor arrangement fixes the bracket relative the platform with long axes of the pair of arms transverse to the forward direction of travel. The mounting bracket has a lower portion in abutting engagement with the platform portion of the vehicle and an upper portion configured for receiving fixed coupled engagement of a fifth wheel hitch.
US07775529B2 Independent adjustable axle suspension system
An independent adjustable axle suspension system for mounting a wheel to a frame of a trailer for transport of the trailer over a support surface. The axle suspension system includes a tower adapted to be attached to the frame and an axle unit adapted to receive the wheel. The tower is selectively moveable with respect to the axle unit along guide assemblies between extended and retracted positions to thereby selectively position the height of the frame with respect to the support surface.
US07775528B2 Bi-directional pattern for dynamic seals
A bi-directional dynamic seal advantageously provides for the return of captured lubricant to the lubricant side regardless of a direction of relative rotation between the seal and the shaft. The seal utilizes a pattern of symmetrical pumping elements to facilitate the hydrodynamic pumping of the captured lubricant in response to the relative rotation. The symmetrical pumping elements have ending points that stop short of the seal edge of the seal. The seal may utilize secondary pumping elements that communicate with the primary pumping elements to capture lubricant that is not captured by the primary pumping elements.
US07775526B1 Bullet trap
A bullet trap is disclosed which is formed without intervening sidewalls to enable cross-shooting and the like with reduced risk or ricochet or damage to the bullet trap. Furthermore, the bullet trap can be configured in a variety of ways to eliminate the need for facing plates while providing a removable attachment mechanism, to enable repair on the trap, to reduce bullet adhesion to the trap and to provide improved containment of lead and improved access to the trap.
US07775522B2 Automatic dice shaking system
An automatic dice shaking system includes multiple dice seat holders each having two locating grooves, multiple dice seats selectively attachable to the dice seat holders, each dice seat having an inner thread and locating rods attachable to the locating grooves of one dice seat holder to prohibit rotation of the respective dice seat relative to the respective dice seat holder, a dice cup connectable to one dice seat by threading an outer thread thereof into the inner thread of one dice seat and movable with the connected dice seat away from the dice seat holders to shake the respective set of dice, and a mechanical arm controllable to move the dice cup horizontally and vertically and to rotate the device cup.
US07775520B2 Paper sheet conveyance apparatus and image forming apparatus
There is described a paper sheet conveyance apparatus, which makes it possible to surely separate the overlapping paper sheets from each other irrespective of a kind of paper. The apparatus includes: a thickness detecting section to detect a thickness of a paper sheet, currently conveyed in the conveyance path; a first suction device to adsorb the conveyance paper sheet currently passing through the first suction device; a second suction device to adsorb the overlap paper sheet currently passing through the second suction device; an overlapping conveyance path that is branched from the conveyance path; and a control section that activates the first suction device and the second suction device so as to separate the conveyance paper sheet from the overlap paper sheet, and to introduce the conveyance paper sheet and the overlap paper sheet into the conveyance path and the overlapping conveyance path, respectively.
US07775518B2 Sheet carrying device and sheet carrying method
A technique is provided that can realize highly accurate skew correction without employing any particularly complicated device configuration. The quantity of skew of a sheet is determined in accordance with a detection result from a first pair of sensors. Driving of each of first rollers and second rollers is separately controlled to carry the sheet in such a manner as to reduce the quantity of skew determined in accordance with the detection result from the first pair of sensors. The quantity of skew of the sheet is determined in accordance with a detection result from a second pair of sensors. Driving of each of the first rollers and the second rollers is separately controlled to carry the sheet in such a manner as to reduce the quantity of skew determined in accordance with the detection result from the second pair of sensors.
US07775515B2 Sheet conveying device
In one aspect of a sheet conveying device, a sheet member is guided from a sheet feeding port through a reading position to a terminal end positioned above the sheet feeding port on a first path, guided from the terminal end through the reading position to the terminal end again on a second path, and guided from the terminal end through the reading position to a sheet discharging port on a third path. A transfer member rotates a conveying member and halts the rotation of the conveying member respectively according to first and second rotations of a driving source. A first detecting unit is provided downstream of the sheet feeding port on the first path. A control unit switches the driving source from the first rotation to the second rotation on the basis that the first detecting unit detects a trailing end of the sheet member.
US07775509B2 Method and arrangement for producing digitally printed newspapers
A method and apparatus for producing a digitally printed product that includes at least one section of sequentially printed sheets folded approximately in the center. The sequentially printed sheets are conveyed one after another on a conveying device and folded inside a folding apparatus to form a first fold. The folded sheets are gathered in a gathering station to form a section which is fed to a work station where the section is folded approximately in the center to form a second fold.
US07775501B2 Pinch valve
A pinch valve has a hose-like valve member with a flexible peripheral wall adjacent to whose outer periphery two diametrally opposite pinch elements are arranged able to be moved toward and away from one another with a greater or lesser pinching of the peripheral wall while performing an operating movement athwart the valve member longitudinal axis. An annular actuating ring coaxially surrounding the valve member may act on the pinch elements for causing the operating movement. The actuating ring is placed in a working space surrounded radially from the outside by a peripheral valve housing wall and is able to be acted on by drive means separate from the actuating ring with a drive force controlling the actuating movement.
US07775500B1 Concrete forming system with interacting brackets connecting stacked form panels
A modular forming system with nesting brackets between associated stacked modular panels to join modular panels when stacked. As a part of the forming system, a modular panel is described having a forming member with a plurality of studs affixed to the non-forming surface, and a plurality of stiff-back structures affixed in a spaced-apart relationship to the plurality of studs. Each stiff-back structure includes a lower bracket having a slot therein and an upper lifting bracket having a lifting member adapted to slidably engage the slot in a lower bracket of an associated stacked panel arranged above the modular panel, and allowing the engaged brackets to be removably joined together.
US07775499B2 Foundation footing form and wall form support apparatus
An improved moldable material forming system, including but not limited to concrete foundation footing and wall forming system, comprising at least one pair of prefabricated support units or structures designed to hold in place forms, and rebar or other materials intended to be placed within the structure, during the monolithic pouring of the moldable material for the structure, including method of using such support units to allow monolithic pouring of the moldable material for the structure.
US07775497B2 Article to cover mirror edge and conceal retaining portion of mirror support device
An article for covering the edge of mirror whereby said article may be used to conceal a variety of mirror mounting clips, and a method for covering the edge and concealing the clips of a mounted mirror are disclosed herein.
US07775494B2 Foldable holder
A foldable holder connecting to and supporting a display comprises a mount and a swinging part. The mount comprises a base and a pillar disposed on the base. The swinging part pivots around the pillar. The display, is disposed at a front side of the swinging part. The swinging part may be folded together with the display so as to be parallel with the base of the mount. Thus, the wasted space caused by the irregular geometry of the holder and the supported LCD can be significantly reduced. The design will greatly simplify the processes of packing, handling, and storage; therefore significantly lower the cost of business shipment. Since most of the unused space in the carton box is eliminated, the quantity of Styrofoam used as filler can also be significantly reduced, which contributing to environmental protection.
US07775492B2 Mounting system and apparatus for attaching accessories to a wall panel
A mounting apparatus has a wall panel accessory with at least one connector projecting from a portion of the accessory. The connector has a groove formed in a surface of the connector. A mounting body has a front and a back. At least one connector receptacle extends into a surface of the body and the connector is releasably received in the connector receptacle. A releasable retainer protrudes into the groove of the connector. A wall mounting projection extends from the back of the body and is configured to slidably mount in a channel in a wall panel.
US07775488B2 Support for a camera
A support for a camera comprises a central hub (45) adapted to releasably connect with a plurality of radially displaced interchangeable arm or foot sections (A, B), wherein the arm section is adapted to interconnect if desired with an additional arm section and/or foot section to form a radially extending leg of a desired length. The hub may have a Mitchell type plate and is provided with one or more access windows to allow access to a central cavity.
US07775468B2 Hammermill with rotatable housing
The invention includes a hammermill for comminuting material. The hammer includes a housing and a cutting plate disposed within the housing. A rotor assembly is rotatably mounted within the housing about an axis of rotation and a plurality of hammers are functionally coupled to the rotor assembly. The housing is rotatable about the axis of rotation.
US07775467B2 Electric condiment grinder
A cordless electric condiment grinder includes a hollow housing elongated to extend between a base for supporting the grinder uprightly and an opposing top, the top of the housing having a bulbous form to define a condiment reservoir. A rotary grinding mechanism is disposed in a lateral opening in the top of the housing and a tilt switch controls operation of the grinding mechanism, allowing freshly ground condiment to be dispensed automatically upon rotating the grinder through an acute angle and thus is particularly suited for use by people with limited dexterity.
US07775466B2 Production of glass powder from waste glass, and products made using the same, especially concrete
A clean dry glass powder useful as a substitute for Portland cement in concrete, in paints, and for other known uses for glass powder produced conventionally can be produced from unsorted post-consumer waste glass, including a substantial fraction of non-glass items, by employing glass pulverizing equipment to reduce waste glass to small fragments, allowing removal of trash, employing a multistep washing process to clean the glass fragments, in the preferred embodiment using aggregate cleaning equipment, drying the fragments, preferably using fluidized bed techniques, and grinding the glass to a desired particle size, preferably using a ball mill, in combination with an air classification step to produce a glass powder of uniform particle size.
US07775465B2 Method and apparatus for grinding iron ore or iron ore concentrate
A method and apparatus for grinding iron ore or iron ore concentrate is able to grind iron ore or iron ore concentrate economically. In the method and apparatus disclosed, the material is ground in circulation in a material bed roll mill, one fraction of the iron ore or iron ore concentrate ground in the material bed roll mill is recirculated to the material bed roll mill and the other fraction of the iron ore or iron ore concentrate is classified into oversize material and fines, and the oversize material is returned to the material bed roll mill.
US07775464B2 Electromagnetic fuel injection valve
In an electromagnetic fuel injection valve, a valve housing is formed by sequentially connecting a valve seat member, a magnetic cylinder, a nonmagnetic collar, and a stationary core. A coil housing is fittingly fixed to an outer periphery of the magnetic cylinder, and houses a coil assembly provided in an outer periphery of the stationary core. The coil housing includes a shell part surrounding the coil housing, an annular bent part bent radially inward from a front end of the shell part, and a cylindrical boss part projecting forward from a front end of the annular bent part. An inner peripheral surface of the annular bent part and an inner peripheral surface of at least a rear half part of the boss part are shrinkage-fitted to an outer peripheral surface of the magnetic cylinder. Thus, it is possible to eliminate distortion propagating to the magnetic cylinder, and eliminate a gap from fitted portions between the magnetic cylinder and the coil housing to improve magnetic efficiency, thereby exerting stabile fuel injection characteristics.
US07775463B2 Electromagnetic fuel injection valve
In an injector used for an internal combustion engine, a favorable magnetic attraction force is obtained to reduce a controllable minimum injection amount of a fuel injection amount. In a fuel injection valve in which a fixed core and a moving element is contained inside a pipe-shaped member, and a coil and a yoke are provided on an outer side thereof, a space for placing the coil is placed so that an inner circumference length in a vertical section of the space becomes smaller than an outside diameter of the yoke, or a height of the space in an axial direction of the fixed core becomes smaller than a diameter of the fixed core.
US07775442B2 Method for accessing after-operation information of secure element applications
In a mobile terminal device a Secure Element, a main controlling unit, and near-field-communication Module form a communication triangle. A method is disclosed for providing an interface communication in the mobile terminal device comprising an operation for detecting by the main control unit that a communication between a secure element and external device has ceased.
US07775439B2 Featured wands for camera calibration and as a gesture based 3D interface device
Passive wands, tracked by one or more cameras, are used as user interface devices. The wands are inexpensive, and are a natural way for users to interact with devices such as large displays. Each wand may be used to specify a full 6 degrees of freedom, which can be helpful for manipulation of 3D applications. The wands may also be used to identify 3D world points, which is useful for multi-camera calibration, and for building 3D models of physical spaces. The described methods provide a more precise estimation of wand pose, and can be implemented with a single camera. Also described is a method for estimation wand pose using information available along a one dimensional ‘line scan’ within the image, which simplifies processing.
US07775429B2 Method and system for controlling access to an enclosed area
A method and system for controlling access to an enclosed area is described. One illustrative embodiment is an access card reader and controller that is powered via a Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) interface. The access card reader and controller may include a plurality of operating modes, including a network mode in which the access card reader and controller relies on an external access control server to authenticate received card identifiers and a standalone mode in which the access card reader and controller authenticates card identifiers independently of the access control server based on information stored locally in the access card reader and controller.
US07775415B2 Method and apparatus for assessing the quality of spot welds
A method and apparatus for evaluating the size and/or quality of a spot weld. The apparatus includes a two-dimensional array of ultrasonic transducers arranged with a delay line for positioning adjacent a surface of a weld. A layer of gel is placed between the delay line and the weld surface. The array of transducers emit ultrasonic waves that pass into the weld. The reflected waves are received by the transducers and relayed to a central processing unit that analyzes the time delay, amplitude, and amplitude attenuation to calculate the border of the weld nugget, the thickness of the welded material, the thickness of the gel layer, and other factors contributing to weld quality.
US07775412B2 Nail and anchor driver
A nail is held within a cylindrical nail receiver by a magnetized tip of a cylindrical driver rod. As the driver sleeve is moved toward a surface, the driver rod drives the nail into the surface leaving a predetermine space between the head of the nail and the surface. A coil spring, attached to the nail receiver and allows for the nail receiver to be adjusted for several nail lengths thus allowing for an accurate placement of the nail against the wall. The nail receiver is interchangeable to allow use of the device with nails and anchors of differing diameters.
US07775411B2 Cycle bag with an adjustable retention device for securement to a rack
A cycle bag with adjustable retention device for securement to a rack includes a cycle bag, at least one adjustable attachment device and at least two strap retainers. The cycle bag preferably includes a compartment for storing objects and a cover hinged to the compartment. Each adjustable attachment device includes a base, two hooks and two straps. Each adjustable attachment device is attached to a bottom of the cycle bag. The two hooks are slidable retained by the adjustable attachment device and a single strap is attached to each hook. Strap retainers are located inside the cycle bag. The cycle bag is placed on a rack. The at least two hooks are slipped over rails of the rack. One of the first or second straps is pulled, until the cycle bag is centered on the rack. The first and second straps are then secured in their respective strap retainers.
US07775409B2 Valve for a pressurized dispensing container
An axially actuated valve for use in a pressurized container is controlled by a user to dispense the amount of product desired. The valve stem is moved in an up and down direction so that when dispensing, the user can control the amount of the valve openings that are in communication with the material to be dispensed. A resilient sealing grommet provides an interference fit around the lower part of the valve stem from the button up to the top of the valve stem openings. This interference fit effectively closes off the uncovered portion of the valve openings thereby permitting user control of the dispensing rate. The stem has openings partially tapered in the form of an inverted truncated pyramid to further facilitate user control of the dispensing of product.
US07775401B2 Fluid delivery system for dispensing primary and secondary fluids
A trigger operated fluid delivery system for dispensing two different fluids. The fluid delivery system includes a first container having a first fluid that dispenses to a fluid discharge orifice via a fluid inlet conduit by a pump and pump chamber. The fluid delivery system includes a second container having a second fluid, with a device for delivering the second fluid into the fluid discharge conduit. The two fluids mix in the fluid discharge conduit prior to dispensation through the discharge orifice.
US07775400B2 Rotatable, reclosable closure
Disclosed is a rotatable, reclosable closure (1) comprises a base (2) and a cap (3) which is mounted so as to be twistable about a common axis of rotation (D) relative to the base (2). The base (2) encompasses an outer sleeve (2a) that extends coaxial to the axis of rotation (D) and is provided with a laterally protruding spout (2b). The cap (3) is fitted with an inner sleeve (3a) that runs coaxial to the axis of rotation (D) and is disposed inside the outer sleeve (2a). The inner sleeve and outer sleeve (3a, 2a) are designed in a mutually adapted manner such that the closure (1) features a first defined rotary position (R1) in which the interior space of the outer sleeve (2a) extending into the spout (2b) is sealed by the inner sleeve (3a) while the closure (1) features a second defined rotary position (R2) in which the inner sleeve (3a) at least partly unblocks the interior space of the outer sleeve (2a) towards the spout (2b). The cap (3) is also fitted with an g outer jacket (3c) which extends in the M direction of the axis of rotation (D) outside the outer sleeve (2a) and is provided with a hole (3d). The outer jacket (3c) lies over O and covers the spout (2b) in the first defined rotary position (R1) while the hole (3d) lies over the spout (2b) and makes the same accessible towards the outside in the second defined rotary position (R2).
US07775397B2 Automatic valve assembly for a water cooler reservoir
An automatic valve assembly for a water cooler having a reservoir of the type that has its upper end generally sealed to the atmosphere by a water bottle adapter that receives and supports an inverted water bottle. The valve assembly includes a ventilation passageway providing for air to enter the reservoir, and an actuator arm hingedly mounted within the interior of the water cooler. The actuator arm is operable to move between an open and a closed position in response to changing water levels within the reservoir. When in its open position the actuator arm allows the unrestricted passage of air into the reservoir through the ventilation passageway. When in its closed position the actuator arm restricts the flow of air and fluids through the ventilation passageway.
US07775396B2 Automatic shoe cover dispenser
An automatic shoe cover dispenser includes a shoe cover feeding arrangement holding a plurality of shoe covers each having a shoe opening, a shoe cover pulling mechanism and a driving mechanism. The shoe cover pulling mechanism is capable of pulling one of the shoe covers from the shoe cover feeding arrangement as a standby shoe cover for being ready for wearing on a shoe of a user. The driving mechanism includes a pedal arranged in up and down movable manner for the shoe of the user to step thereon and a device for driving the pulling mechanism to deliver the standby shoe cover to the pedal and enlarging the shoe opening of the standby shoe cover to be large enough for the shoe of the user to place inside the standby shoe cover by means of up and down movements of the pedal.
US07775394B2 Opening-force-maximizing device of an underpressure-activated valve for a drinking container
An opening-force-maximizing device of an underpressure-activated valve for a drinking container (2). The device includes a partition wall (6, 106, 206) enclosing an outlet opening (4) and being provided with a wall opening (8, 108, 208) in pressure-sealing contact with an axially movable valve sealing member (22, 122, 222) being in position of rest. It also includes a continuous membrane (12, 112, 212) being arranged to the container (2) and about a valve axis (14) through the wall opening (8, 108, 208). The membrane (12, 112, 212) has an axial extent and consists of an attachment end (12a, 112a, 212a) fixedly connected to the partition wall (6, 106, 206), and a movable maneuvering end (12b, 112b, 212b) placed at an axial distance from the attachment end (12a, 112a, 212a). The maneuvering end (12b, 112b, 212b) is arranged in a tensile-force-transmitting manner to said sealing member (22, 122, 222). By arranging the membrane (12, 112, 212) with a maximum longitudinal extent when at rest in its inactive position, and by being arranged radially flexible and deflectable and also being arranged in a manner inhibiting axial stretching, a maximum valve opening force is achieved when underpressure-activated.
US07775393B1 Combination closure-cup assembly
A combination closure-cup assembly including a rotatably removable cup for securing to a bottle. The bottle having an inner cavity, frusto-conical neck and spout including external threading, and an annual peripheral flange extending outwardly from the frusto-conical neck below the external threading. The cup has a first end having a circular flat bottom including a scalloped rim, a second end, and a frusto-conical neck portion connecting the first and second end. The cup includes an outer surface, an internal cavity having threading, an inwardly recessed straw aperture, and a leak proof seal. The outer surface has a plurality of axial ribs.
US07775392B2 Double-walled baking tray having improved baking characteristics
A baking tray includes a top sheet and a bottom sheet. The top sheet has a first top side, a first bottom side, and a first outer perimeter. The first top side includes a first horizontal surface configured for supporting food for cooking in an oven. The bottom sheet has a second top side, a second bottom side, and a second outer perimeter. The second bottom side includes a second horizontal surface configured for supporting the baking tray upon an oven rack. The bottom sheet is attached to the top sheet at an interface adjacent to the first outer perimeter and the second outer perimeter. The second horizontal surface comprises dimple portions and flat portions. The flat portions separate the dimple portions and are spaced from the top sheet. Each of the dimple portions is indented toward the top sheet.
US07775379B2 Retail display for greeting cards
A greeting card display has frame-supported rails and card shelves with laterally adjustable dividers which form multiple adjustable card pockets for display and storage of greeting cards and envelopes. The number of card shelves and pockets can be easily set-up and altered by any desired arrangement of the card shelves and dividers. The card shelves can be use in combination with other types of product displays on the same supporting frame.
US07775372B2 Apparatus and method for separating materials
A material separator for separating at least two different materials of differing densities and/or sizes of particles. The material separator generally includes a tank containing a flocculent, a circulation system for circulating flocculent within the tank and a pair of conveyors for moving two different materials out of the tank. The tank may include an upper chamber and a lower chamber. At least a portion of each of the conveyors is located in the upper chamber to catch materials fed into the flocculent. Each of the conveyors may include a mesh belt that permits the flocculent to flow through the conveyor. The tank may include a clean out valve that permits fines and other debris accumulated within the upper chamber to pass into the lower chamber. The flocculent circulation assembly may include a nozzle that can be constructed in various configurations to create flows of flocculent of various velocities and trajectories. In one embodiment, the lower chamber includes a drag line assembly that removes fines and other accumulated debris from the lower chamber.
US07775370B2 Particle sorting by fluidic vectoring
Disclosed are embodiments of apparatus and methods for separating particles in a fluid stream by size. In one illustrative embodiment of an apparatus for separating such particles, a housing is provided, which defines a channel for a fluid stream containing particles. A suction channel is provided, which terminates at a suction port. The suction port is positioned adjacent to the fluid stream. A blowing channel terminating at a blowing port is also provided. The blowing port is positioned adjacent to the suction port such that the suction port is positioned in between the fluid stream and the blowing port. The blowing port and the suction port are configured to create a low pressure region and thereby redirect the first fluid stream towards the low pressure region.
US07775367B2 Suspension packaging assembly
A packaging assembly includes a frame member and a retention member which is not permanently affixed to the frame member. The frame member can include a variety of features which allow the retention member to be tightened around an article to be packaged and thus protected from shocks and impacts during transport, display, and/or retail use. The retention member can be formed as a sleeve or with pockets for engaging the frame member.
US07775366B2 Refill container
The present invention relates to a refill container that holds and protects an internal tray filled with a cosmetic material. The refill container that holds the internal tray filled with the cosmetic material is made up of a mounting portion and an engaging portion. The mounting portion has a structure to be mounted over the internal tray in such a manner as to cover an exposed surface of the cosmetic material. The mounting portion has a lid portion that faces the exposed surface and protects the exposed surface in a mounted state and a holding portion that holds the internal tray in such a manner that the internal-tray bottom surface of the internal tray is exposed in the mounted state. Further, in the mounted state of the internal tray being mounted in the mounting portion, the engaging portion catches the internal tray in such a manner as to prevent the internal tray from being disengaged from the mounting portion. Thus, it is possible to reduce the size of the refill container and improve the mounting operation of the internal tray.
US07775365B1 Prosthetic limb assistance kit
A prosthetic limb assistance kit that is used as a maintenance kit and carrying case for prosthetic limb users to house and have readily available necessary prosthesis supplies, which include adjustment tools, replaceable prosthesis components, socks, ointments, powders, cleaning devices, and other related items. The kit comes in a carrying case and also includes a cutout area for a umbrella-like stand, which allows for air drying of a prosthesis liner worn by an individual. The stand also allows the liner from sticking to itself when it is placed in the carrying case.
US07775364B1 Grasping closure system for container for frangible items
A container comprises a sheet of polymer formed into a base portion. The base portion has cavities for receiving and supporting frangible items. A cover portion has cavities for covering the frangible items. The cover portion has a flat peripheral wall defining concavities. A first hinge rotates the cover portion onto the base portion to hold the items captive. An elongated tab has male connectors oriented with a ramp portion. A female connector projects from the peripheral wall of the cover portion and is in vertical alignment with the male connectors. A second hinge rotates the tab toward the interior of the base portion. Connectors block the cover portion to the base portion when closed together. A grasping wall spans between and projects from the receiving cavities and from the container, defining a grasping surface. A clearance is positioned between the female connector and the base portion when the container is closed.
US07775363B2 High cleanliness article transport system
A semiconductor reticle transportation container includes a box and a base, the box having an opening and the base including a reticle support. The reticle is placed on the support and the box is placed on the base so that the reticle passes through the opening while being lifted off of the support by plungers contacting the lower edge of the reticle. After the box is closed, the reticle is compliantly constrained horizontally and vertically and is held away from the support.
US07775359B2 Packaging for paper roll
The packaging of the present invention is provided with a printing paper roll to which printing paper is wound; an ink ribbon unit having a sending roll, a winding roll arranged in parallel to the sending roll and an ink ribbon wound around the sending roll; a container for storing the printing paper roll and the ink ribbon unit; a partition member disposed in the container for partitioning the printing paper roll from the ink ribbon unit, wherein the partitioning member comprises a pair of plate-like holding members for holding the printing paper roll at its ends in the axial direction and a plate-like connecting member for connecting the holding members; and the connecting member obliquely extending relative to the axial direction, and partitioning the container in the radial direction of the printing paper roll into first and second storage regions in which the printing paper roll and the ink ribbon unit are accommodated respectively.
US07775358B1 Tool box with tilting and sliding cover
The present invention provides a tool box with tilting and sliding cover, including a box body, which contains a back surface, two lateral surfaces and an accommodation space. There is a track, set onto a lateral surface of the box body, and a tilting and sliding cover, used to cover the accommodation space of the box body. A mating portion is arranged onto one side of the tilting and sliding cover. A moveable connector is arranged between the track and the mating portion of the tilting and sliding cover. The moveable connector contains a rotary sliding seat and a cover coupling portion. The rotary sliding seat is fixed securely into the track in a rotary and slidable state, while the cover coupling portion is coupled with the mating portion set for the tilting and sliding cover.
US07775357B2 Syringe disposal device
The present invention discloses a syringe disposal device (10) for a single syringe (1) having an elongate body (2) with a needle (3) at one end and a finger engageable flange (4) at its other end. The device (10) comprises an elongate enclosed sheath (12) having a closed tip (14) at one end and a cuff (16) at the other end. A syringe detention device (26) is located adjacent the cuff (16) and has at least one inclined sloping surface (28) each of which has a frangible portion (31) rupturable by the syringe flange (4) passing the surface (28) to convert the sloping surface (28) into a cantilevered strip (28A).
US07775355B1 Decorative portable computer cover
A system and method by which interchangeable covers are provided for a portable computer comprising two (2) covers which are generally flat in shape is herein disclosed. A first cover would attach onto a top surface of the portable computer thus protecting an outward facing component of a display screen, while a second cover would attach onto a bottom portion of the portable computer. Both covers would extend around side surfaces thus protecting the sides of the computer as well. The covers would provide manually removable sections allowing access thereto computer features such as buttons, cooling vents, connection ports, and the like. It is envisioned that the covers would be made in multiple colors and styles with graphic printing to suit individual tastes. Such graphics are envisioned to be flames, sport heroes, music or movie icons, company logos, or the like. Additionally, plain covers could be adorned with stickers, paints, or other user applied items without fear of damaging the laptop, voiding warranties, or reducing resale value. To change the appearance of a portable computer, the user would simply attach new covers.
US07775351B2 System and method for packaging apparel
A package containing a plurality of articles of textile products, comprising one or more compacted articles and at least one un-compacted article. The un-compacted article is placed so that it is predominantly visible.
US07775348B2 Divisible container carrier
A flexible carrier for carrying a plurality of containers includes a flexible sheet having two rows of container apertures formed therein. The plurality of containers are each placed into a respective container receiving aperture and are thus unitized in a package. The flexible carrier further includes two panels and/or two handles, each panel and/or handle formed at a periphery of the flexible sheet along each longitudinal edge of the flexible sheet and a line of weakness formed between the longitudinal rows. As a result of the described configuration, flexible carrier is divisible into two sub-carriers, each unitizing a set of containers and each including a panel and/or a handle along a respective longitudinal edge of the resulting sub-carrier.
US07775346B1 Food buffet table system
A food buffet table system for conveying food articles around a tabletop to allow a person to access the food articles without reaching across the tabletop includes a base being positioned on and that extends upwardly from a support surface. A tabletop is coupled to the base and positioned above the support surface. The tabletop has a channel that extends into the tabletop through an upper surface of the tabletop in an approximate oval shape along the tabletop. A plurality of conveyor assemblies is positioned in and extends along the channel to receive and support the food articles. The conveyor assemblies are actuated to convey the food articles in an approximate oval path around the tabletop. A pair of drive assemblies is positioned in the tabletop. A plurality of the conveyor assemblies is coupled to one of the drive assemblies to actuate the conveyor assemblies.
US07775343B2 Manufacturing device for use with a vibratory conveyor, and method for manufacturing a product
A manufacturing device for use with a vibratory conveyor having a product transporting bed, and a method for manufacturing a product is described and which includes a flexible substrate having a first upper course, and a second lower course which rests upon a product transporting bed of a vibratory conveyor, and wherein a product which is being manufactured and transported by the vibratory conveyor travels between the upper and lower courses of the flexible substrate as the product moves along the vibratory conveyor.
US07775335B2 Torque transmitting device
The invention relates to a torque transmitting device having a hub arranged in the drive train of a motor vehicle for transmitting torque between a drive unit and a transmission, in particular a turbine wheel hub of a turbine wheel of a torque converter which is coupled to a damper hub with a rotational vibration damper connected in between via a driving plate, in particular of a converter bridge coupling. The invention is operatively arranged such that the rotational vibration damper is equipped with a mechanical stop mechanism that is in effect as soon as a maximum design load on the rotational vibration damper has been exceeded.
US07775330B2 Unintended movement governor
An electronic unintended movement governor is disclosed, which includes an input for car position data, a device for determining the speed of the elevator car, a plurality of limit values for permitted movement of the elevator car, such as the limit value of the maximum permitted speed of the elevator car, and which unintended movement governor also provides overspeed monitoring for controlling at least one stopping appliance of the elevator car when the speed of the elevator car exceeds the limit value of the maximum permitted speed. The unintended movement governor includes at least two separate controls for controlling a stopping appliance of the elevator car. Additionally, a method for controlling the aforementioned electronic unintended movement governor is disclosed.
US07775327B2 Method and system for stopping elevators using AC motors driven by static frequency converters
The invention relates to methods for stopping elevators especially when using at least one three-phase motor operated by a static frequency converter. According to the invention, a brake relay controls the brake of the motor such that releasing of the brake relay causes the motor to be decelerated while the brake relay is coupled to a protective circuit in such a way that the control pulses required for generating the driving motor field are safely blocked when the brake relay is released.
US07775322B2 Snap-action valve for exhaust system
A passive, exhaust pressure actuated valve assembly for placement inside a tubular exhaust conduit is pivotally mounted to an off-center axle for rotation between fully closed and fully opened positions. A bias element forces the valve flap toward the fully closed position. The valve flap is shaped in a manner enabling use of the interior surface of the exhaust conduit to define stops at the full closed and full opened positions. The valve flap shape, in conjunction with the bias element arrangement, enables the flap to lie substantially parallel to a longitudinal axis of the conduit in the fully opened position, which provides for minimum back pressure in the conduit. The valve assembly finds particularly advantageous use inside a bypass through pipe of a muffler assembly.
US07775318B2 Steering shaft joint structure
A steering shaft joint structure capable of absorbing a rotational phase difference between an input shaft of a power steering unit and an output shaft thereof includes an inner splined portion 53 of a steering joint member 51 joined to an input shaft of a power steering unit and an outer splined portion 55 of the steering joint member 51 joined to a steering shaft. A predetermined rotational phase difference is set between the inner splined portion 53 of the steering joint member 51 and the outer splined portion 55 thereof.
US07775311B1 Housing for vehicle power systems
A housing (10) is for containing an energy source (2), such as a fuel tank, battery or fuel cell, and other power system components of a vehicle having a seat (4). The housing includes a body (12), preferably a generally rectangular box, connectable with the vehicle and configured to support the seat. The body has an interior space sized to receive the energy source and the other power system components, such that the energy source and other components are supported by the body, including when the body is unconnected with the vehicle.
US07775310B2 Dynamic allocation of energy storage limits for a hybrid vehicle propulsion system
A system and method is disclosed for operating a hybrid propulsion system for a vehicle including at least an engine having a plurality of combustion cylinders, wherein the engine is mechanically coupled to at least a drive wheel of the vehicle, an energy conversion device mechanically coupled to at least one of the engine and the vehicle drive wheel, and an energy storage device coupled to the energy conversion device, the method comprising adjusting at least one of the engine and the energy conversion device so that an amount of energy stored by the energy storage device varies within a first range when the engine is operating in a first combustion mode and varies within a second range when the engine is operating in a second combustion mode, wherein the first range is different from the second range.
US07775309B2 Pump unit
There is provided a pump unit including plurality of hydraulic pump bodies respectively fluidly connected to plurality of hydraulic motor bodies, which are disposed away from the pump unit, so as to form closed circuits, the pump unit including: a housing accommodating the plurality of hydraulic pump bodies so that the plurality of hydraulic pump bodies are operatively driven by a common driving source; a charge pump body operatively driven by the driving source; a suction fluid passage fluidly connected to a suction side of the charge pump body; a discharge fluid passage fluidly connected to a discharge side of the charge pump body; a charge passage for replenishing a part of pressurized fluid in the discharge fluid passage into each of the closed circuits; and a working machine operating fluid passage for supplying a part of the pressurized fluid in the discharge fluid passage toward an external hydraulic actuator.
US07775308B2 Payload-carrying motor vehicle with tag axle having primary and secondary suspension
A payload-carrying motor vehicle comprises a frame, a steer axle, tandem drive axles, at least one pusher axle located between the steer axle and drive axles, and a tag axle. A steer axle suspension system suspends the steer axle from the frame, a drive axle suspension system suspends the drive axles from the frame, a pusher axle suspension system including gas springs suspends the pusher axle from the frame, and a tag axle suspension system including a primary tag axle suspension and a secondary tag axle suspension suspends the tag axle from the frame behind the drive axles. The primary tag axle suspension suspends the tag axle for pivotal movement about an axis parallel to the other axles and includes actuators incorporating a gas spring forcing the tag axle tires against a road surface to aid in supporting the frame. The secondary tag axle suspension supports the tag axle for tilting movement about a second axis and includes gas springs that have higher gas charging pressure and less spring compliance than the gas springs in the primary tag axle suspension and are arranged to support only lateral loads on the frame.
US07775307B2 Power wheelchair
A power wheelchair includes a frame, on which a pair of front wheel sets, a pair of middle wheel sets, a pair of rear wheel sets and a pair of elastic devices are provided. Each of the front wheel sets includes a front wheel mount having a first connection portion pivoted to the frame, and a second connection portion connected to a front wheel. Each of the middle wheel sets includes a middle wheel mount having a first connection portion pivoted on the frame, and a second connection portion, connected to a middle wheel. The elastic device are provided between the front wheel mounts and the middle wheel mounts respectively to cushion a swing of the front wheel set and the middle wheel set relative to the frame.
US07775302B2 Casing shoe and retrievable bit assembly
An earth boring bit assembly has a tubular mandrel carried by a casing shoe at the lower end of a string of casing. The casing shoe has stabilizer blades spaced circumferentially apart from each other. A cutter arm seat is formed on the leading edge of each blade at a lower end of the casing shoe. Windows are formed in and spaced circumferentially around the mandrel. A cutter arm is pivotally mounted within each window of the mandrel and movable from an extended position located within one of the cutter arm seats to a recessed position within its window. The cutter arm seats support the cutter arms for torque and axial weight. A sleeve inside the mandrel prevents the cutter arms from pivoting to a recessed position until the sleeve is moved to a released position.
US07775300B2 Earth drilling device
An earth drilling device includes an auger, an encasing tube that surrounds the auger, a rotary drive for driving at least the auger in a rotating manner about a drilling axis, and an ejecting device for discharging drill spoil from the auger. The ejecting device has a discharge duct for the drill spoil, and a mast element along which the auger can be moved together with the ejecting device. A device for changing the length of the discharge duct is provided.
US07775299B2 Method and apparatus for programmable pressure drilling and programmable gradient drilling, and completion
A method for creating a programmable pressure zone adjacent a drill bit bottom hole assembly by sealing near a drilling assembly, adjusting the pressure to approximately or slightly below the pore pressure of the well bore face to permit flow out of the formation, and, while drilling, adjusting by pumping out of, or choking fluid flow into, the drilling assembly between the programmable pressure zone and the well bore annulus to avoid overpressuring the programmable pressure zone unless required to control the well.
US07775291B2 Retrievable surface controlled subsurface safety valve
A safety valve apparatus has a housing with a bore and a projection disposed in the bore. A locking dog disposed on the housing is movable to engage an inner conduit wall surrounding the housing, and a flapper rotatably disposed on the housing is movable between opened and closed positions. A first sleeve disposed within the bore above the projection is mechanically movable between locked positions. In one locked position, the sleeve moves the locking dog to engage the wall. A piston disposed in the housing hydraulically communicates with a port in the projection and couples to a second sleeve disposed within the bore below the projection. The second sleeve conceals the piston and is hydraulically movable to open and close the flapper.
US07775288B2 Retrievable frac mandrel and well control stack to facilitate well completion, re-completion or workover and method of use
A retrievable frac mandrel and a well control stack are used to efficiently accomplish well completion, re-completion or workover. The retrievable frac mandrel is inserted in a tubing head spool of a well to be completed, re-completed or re-worked. The well control stack is mounted to a top of the tubing head spool and seals off against a top of the retrievable frac mandrel. Once well completion, re-completion or workover is completed, the frac mandrel can be retrieved from the tubing head spool without killing or plugging the well.
US07775285B2 Apparatus and method for servicing a wellbore
A wellbore servicing apparatus, comprising a housing comprising a plurality of housing ports, a sleeve being movable with respect to the housing, the sleeve comprising a plurality of sleeve ports to selectively provide a fluid flow path between the plurality of housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports, and a sacrificial nozzle in fluid communication with at least one of the plurality of the housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports. A method of servicing a wellbore, comprising placing a stimulation assembly in the wellbore, the stimulation assembly comprising a housing comprising a plurality of housing ports, a selectively adjustable sleeve comprising a plurality of sleeve ports, and a sacrificial nozzle in fluid communication with one of the plurality of the housing ports and the plurality of sleeve ports, the sacrificial nozzle comprising an aperture, a fluid interface, and a housing interface.
US07775284B2 Apparatus for adjustably controlling the inflow of production fluids from a subterranean well
A flow control apparatus (800) includes a tubular member (818) having a plurality of openings (820, 822, 824, 826) that allow fluid flow between an exterior and an interior flow path (828) of the tubular member (818) and a multi-stage flow restricting section (804) operably positioned in a fluid flow path between a fluid source disposed exteriorly of the tubular member (818) and the interior flow path (828). The flow restricting section (804) including a plurality of flow restricting devices (838, 844, 850) each operable to create a pressure drop. Actuatable devices (830, 832, 834, 836) operably associated with the openings (820, 822, 824, 826) are sequentially actuatable to allow fluid flow through the associated openings (820, 822, 824, 826), thereby sequentially reducing the pressure drop experienced by fluids flowing from the fluid source to the interior flow path (828).
US07775278B2 Degradable material assisted diversion or isolation
A method for well treatment by forming a temporary plug in a fracture, a perforation, a wellbore, or more than one of these locations, in a well penetrating a subterranean formation is provided, in which the method of well treatment includes: injecting a slurry comprising a degradable material, allowing the degradable material to form a plug in a perforation, a fracture, or a wellbore in a well penetrating a formation; performing a downhole operation; and allowing the degradable material to degrade after a selected time such that the plug disappears.
US07775268B2 Vehicle cooling system
A vehicle cooling system comprises a vehicle unit, a heat exchanger, a cooling fan, a coolant pump, a three-way valve, and a control unit. The heat exchanger is arranged in the coolant route to selectively receive a coolant from the coolant outlet of the vehicle unit. The cooling fan is arranged to blow cooling air to the heat exchanger. The coolant pump is arranged to circulate the coolant through the coolant route. The three-way valve is arranged to switch the coolant route between a heat exchanger route that passes through the heat exchanger and a bypass route that bypasses the heat exchanger. The control unit is configured to control operation of at least one of the cooling fan, the three-way valve and the coolant pump based on a temperature of the coolant at the heat exchanger and a temperature of the coolant at the coolant outlet of the vehicle unit.
US07775262B2 Loop-type heat exchange device
A loop-type heat exchange device (10) includes an evaporator (20), a vapor conduit (30), a condenser (50) and a liquid conduit (70). The evaporator contains therein a working fluid. The working fluid turns into vapor in the evaporator upon receiving heat from a heat-generating component. The condenser includes a housing member (52), a plurality of tube members (53) being in fluid communication with the housing member, and a fin member (54) maintained in thermal contact with the tube members. The vapor conduit and the liquid conduit are each connected between the evaporator and the condenser. The vapor conduit conveys the vapor generated in the evaporator to the tube members of the condenser. The vapor turns into condensate in the tube members upon releasing the heat to the fin member. The condensate is conveyed back to the evaporator by the liquid conduit.
US07775258B2 Method and apparatus for removing a casted part for use in a die casting machine
A method for removing a casted part, for use in a die casting machine comprises the steps of setting a position in which a chuck performs an operation to grasp a casted part attached to a movable mold as a position from which the casted part is to be removed, and setting a relative positional relationship between a handle portion which is a part of the casted part attached to the movable mold to be grasped by the chuck and a movable die plate. The method further comprises the step of advancing the chuck between the movable mold and the fixed mold and positioning the chuck at the position from which the casted part is to be removed, in parallel with the movement of the movable die plate. Additionally, the method comprises the steps of stopping the movable die plate when the handle portion of the casted part attached to the movable mold reaches the position from which the casted part is to be removed, grasping the handle portion of the casted part by using the chuck, and removing the casted part from the movable mold.
US07775256B2 Curved brace edge connection fitting of window
A curved brace edge connection fitting and a curved brace window sash edge connection fitting and a window structure are provided. A coupling intensity of existing modular edge connection fittings can be heightened to simultaneously enhance air-tightness and heat insulation and to further provide effects of curved design and easy cleaning. The curved brace window frame edge connection fitting and the curved brace window sash edge connection fitting are used in a push-to-open window called a slider and a rotate-to-open window called a casement.
US07775255B2 Shading device for motor vehicles
A darkening device (1) which has a shade fabric (10) which is mounted to be able to move for displacement between a receiving position in which it is taken up spaced apart from the region to be darkened, and a drawn position in which it extends underneath the region to be darkened, and supporting arrangement (30) which are able to support the shade fabric (10) in the transverse direction in the region to be darkened. The supporting arrangement (30) holds the side edges (11, 12) of the shade fabric (10), on the one hand, and on the other, tension the shade fabric (10) between the side edges (11, 12) in the transverse direction.
US07775252B2 Vertically movable door with safety barrier
A vertically moving door of a truck loading dock includes a disconnectable horizontal joint that provides the door with a barrier position, wherein an upper section of the door can be separated from a lower section to create a ventilation area between the two. The ventilation area allows fresh outside air to enter the building, while the lower section remains at its lowermost position for safety and security. More specifically, the lower section serves as a barrier that helps prevent someone or something from accidentally falling through the doorway when a truck is not present at the dock. A lightweight, resilient strap can be attached to the lower section of the door to help protect that section from an otherwise damaging impact. A lattice of straps or a mesh can be installed across the ventilation area to help secure the building against theft.
US07775251B2 Customizable snap-on garage door screen and method
A customizable garage door screen is disclosed that requires few components to deploy and store. Four elastic straps with hooks at each end are used with six grommets strategically placed on the screen for stability, and approximately one dozen screw and snap fasteners are installed around the perimeter of the screen and garage door frame for a tight enclosure to keep out pests. A partially oversized screen that can fit the average American garage door frame and requires little pre-fabrication effort is now possible with so few components. To open the garage door screen for egress and ingress, one simply unhooks one or both of the lower elastic straps, after unsnapping the desired number of end-caps, and latching upon the upper elastic straps or guide rails on either side. The elastic straps are also used to store the folded screen inside the top, backside of the garage door.
US07775250B2 Soft vertical end panel arrangement for a window blind
An end stem for a soft vertical blind includes an arm spaced from an end louver of the blind, and a fabric panel connected to the arm and the end louver forms a column surrounding the end louver.
US07775248B2 Cylndrical container sleeve formation
A system including a supply roll of a laminate, a mandrel for wrapping the laminate therearound, feed rollers that spool the laminate off the supply roll onto the mandrel, the feed rollers being attached to a mounting plate by an adjustable bracket that sets an angle of the laminate with respect to the mandrel, adjacent windings of the laminate being joined to one another at overlaps thereof, wherein each winding of the laminate makes at least one complete revolution around the mandrel before the laminate advances to its next adjacent winding so as to form a seal at the overlaps of the adjacent windings, and a cutting station adapted to cut cylindrical tubes formed by windings of the laminate about the mandrel.
US07775246B2 Bio-ejector filling stops to facilitate efficient filling
Disclosed is a small volume, liquid dispenser having particular application in the analytical fields. The liquid dispensers can be quickly and reliably filled to a predetermined volume without monitoring liquid flows or volumes or filling times. Various versions of the dispenser and systems utilizing one or more of the dispensers are disclosed.
US07775245B2 Secure loop system and method for supply and delivery of product contained in a carrier
Systems and methods for distributing a product releasably incorporated within a carrier, and for removing the product and returning the carrier for rehabilitation. In one embodiment, the system includes a first supply loop comprising a manufacturing facility for releasably incorporating a product into a first carrier to form fresh. The first loop further includes transportation means for conveying fresh to a first user, the first user including a fresh storage vessel for receiving and storage of fresh. The first user further comprises means for removing product from the carrier to form spent, and a spent storage vessel for receiving, storing, and dispensing of spent. The loop further includes means for returning the spent to a rehabilitation facility of the spent to form fresh wherein a product is contained in a carrier. The carrier may be in any physical state such as for example, solid, liquid, vapor, plasma, or any combination thereof. In addition, the carrier may involve any known mechanism to capture, retain, or release product, for example, chemical reaction, adsorption, dilution, among others. Optionally, the invention comprises a second supply loop that received product liberated from the first supply loop, without exchanging carrier, fresh, or spent with the first supply loop. The invention thus provides for product transfer efficiently and economically with minimal possible losses of the carrier quantity and quality. Contamination of a carrier and/or unintended mixing of different carriers is avoided, or at least localized to limited quantities.
US07775244B2 Liquid crystal dispensing system
A liquid crystal dispensing system includes a frame, a stage coupled to the frame; at least one liquid crystal dispenser moveably coupled the frame over the stage, and at least one measurement member operatively coupled to the liquid crystal dispenser, wherein the at least measurement member detecting an amount of liquid crystal material dispensed from the at least one liquid crystal dispenser.
US07775242B2 Solid state regulator for natural gas
An annular elastomer is provided in a housing orifice that does not require a large force for deformation. This makes possible a solenoid-type actuator that provides a large displacement of the elastomer, thus allowing higher and lower rates of gas flow through a gas line.
US07775239B2 Buffered rotary valve
There is provided a buffered rotary valve in which a valve is additionally installed in a rotary valve for supplying a fluid of high pressure and a fluid of low pressure being input from a compressor, thereby reducing the amount of fluid being supplied and unnecessarily consumed, and enhancing the efficiency of a freezing system.
US07775234B2 Valve-to-fitting converter for process piping systems
Valve-to-fitting converter that mounts on the body of an existing valve in a piping system in place of the actuator for the valve and has a dam that mates with a weir in the valve body to block flow between sections of piping connected to the valve body, and ports that provide communication between the sections of piping and fittings connected to the converter. With such converters replacing two or more of the valves in a system, sections of piping can be isolated and/or re-routed without having to shut down the entire system for an extended period of time.
US07775233B2 Choke or inline valve
Disclosed herein is an inline valve. The inline valve includes, a housing, a choke member in operable communication with the housing, a portion of the choke member being substantially immobile relative to the housing and a portion of the choke member being mobile relative to the housing. The inline valve further includes, an actuator in operable communication with the movable portion of the choke member, the actuator selectively causing the choke member to deform radially.
US07775226B2 Umbrella
The umbrella of the preferred embodiments includes a shaft, a canopy, and a spoke system, coupled to the shaft and to the canopy, which supports the canopy and provides a mechanism to open and close the canopy. The spoke system of the preferred embodiments includes a canopy spoke, coupled to the shaft and to the canopy, having a geometry that defines a canopy coupling element; a support spoke, coupled to the shaft and to the canopy spoke, having a geometry that defines a support coupling element; and a first release mechanism that includes the canopy coupling element and the support coupling element. The umbrella 10 is preferably designed to prevent the passage of precipitation or sun and, more specifically, designed to be an umbrella that can be easily assembled, disassembled, repaired, and recycled. The umbrella 10, however, may be alternatively used in any suitable environment and for any suitable reason.
US07775222B2 Single substrate cleaning apparatus and method for cleaning backside of substrate
Provided are a single substrate cleaning apparatus, and a method for cleaning the backside of a substrate, where a substrate reversing device for cleaning the backside of a substrate is installed inside a processing chamber.
US07775215B2 System and method for determining implanted device positioning and obtaining pressure data
A sense head comprises a plurality of coils and a needle window. The sense head is operable to receive RF signals communicated from a needle target such as an injection port located within a patient. A user interface is configured to visually display an indication to a user relating to the positioning and orientation of the sense head relative to the needle target. The positioning and orientation may be determined based on RF signals received by the coils in the sense head. With the sense head positioned based on information provided through the visual display, the user may insert a needle through the needle window to reach the needle target. The sense head may also receive communications relating to the pressure of fluid in an implanted device. The user interface may further display information relating to the fluid pressure in the implanted device.
US07775213B2 Medical procedure draping systems
A draping system for use in medical procedures includes a drape portion adapted to cover a surface, such as medical equipment or a patient, and serves as a barrier to fluid and debris during medical procedures. The draping system may have a fastening portion affixed to the drape portion and adapted to secure the drape portion to medical equipment. The drape portion may form a pocket for collecting debris resulting from a medical procedure. The drape portion may have an opening therein spanned by a non-porous, elastic membrane.
US07775212B2 Disposable, self-opening bodily fluid barrier
Shown is a disposable, self-opening bodily fluid barrier formed of a sheet of impermeable material. The device may include a main body panel, side panels, and a foot panel to fully wrap and encase an injured or diseased patient and contain any bodily fluids released from the patient. The device may also include fluid expansion chambers such that, when filled with a pressurized gas, will cause the device to fully open into position for use without assistance.
US07775210B2 Nasal cannula
The invention relates to a nasal cannula for an anti-snoring apparatus, comprising a forked tube pneumatically connected to apertures, which are embodied and positioned in such a way that air can be administered into the nose of a user via these apertures. The nasal cannula further comprises a heating wire extending in the interior of forked tube in such a way that the heating wire can heat the air supplied through the forked tube. The invention moreover relates to a nosepiece and to a Y-shaped element for nasal cannula including internal radius steps at tube connection points. The invention further relates to a nosepiece and to a Y-shaped element having rounded off transition regions. The invention finally relates to a method for avoiding condensation in nasal cannulas. To this end, the gas is heated as it flows through the tubes of a nasal cannula.
US07775209B2 Breathing mask for feeding a breathing gas to a mask user and discharge device for discharging breathing gas
A breathing mask arrangement for delivering breathable gas to a patient includes a frame having an open construction that provides an annular mask retaining portion, a nasal mask having a body portion structured to be removably attachable within the mask retaining portion of the frame and a sealing portion structured to engage a patient's face generally along nasal bridge, cheek, and lip regions of the patient's face, a conduit member in fluid communication with the nasal mask to deliver breathable gas into a nasal breathing space of the nasal mask, and a hose connector coupled to the conduit member. The hose connector is structured to be connected to a gas delivery tube.
US07775199B2 Paint ball gun having paint ball dispenser with threaded connector
A paint ball gun is disclosed including a dispenser having a locking connector designed to lockingly engage a locking connector on a gun feed tube or one end of a hollow connecting member.
US07775197B2 Engine sub-system actuators having variable ratio drive mechanisms
An EGR valve (20) comprises three gear parts (40, 42, 44) that provide a variable ratio drive system through which an electric actuator (34) operates a movable valve element (26). Each of the gear parts (40, 42, 44) is a single unitary part, with one part (42) containing two sets of gear teeth (46, 48) each associating with a set of gear teeth of a respective one of the other two parts. Limit stops (56, 58, 60; 68, 70) are integrally formed in two parts (42, 44).
US07775195B2 Method for fuel vapor canister purging
A method of controlling fuel vapor purging in a hybrid electric vehicle capable of selectively operating an engine includes initiating purging in response to an amount of liquid fuel residing in a fuel tank of the hybrid electric vehicle and a duration since the previous fuel tank filling event.
US07775193B2 High-pressure pump, in particular for a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine
A high-pressure pump having a housing containing at least one pump element that has a pump piston driven by a drive shaft; the piston is guided so that it can slide in a cylinder bore of a housing part and delimits a pumping chamber therein. A support element supports the pump piston against the drive shaft; and a prestressed return spring acts on both the pump piston and the support element in the direction toward the drive shaft. The support element is guided so that it can slide in a receptacle, which is contained in the housing part that also contains the cylinder bore, in the direction of the longitudinal axis of the pump piston, but cannot rotate around the longitudinal axis.
US07775190B2 Radial piston pump for supplying fuel at high pressure to an internal combustion engine
A radial piston pump for supplying fuel at high-pressure to an internal combustion engine has a compression chamber arranged in a displacement housing, a reciprocating piston arranged in a cylinder chamber, a suction valve connected to a fuel supply line and has a spring-loaded closure body, an intermediate piece, a threaded pin and a pressure valve which is connected to a fuel outlet line. The closing body of the suction valve is embodied as a valve end pad with the spring exerting a force on the front end thereof. The valve end pad has a closure collar and at least two channels that are distributed around the periphery and which adjoin the closure collar and a base plate. A stop plate comprising an additional base plate borders the closure collar of the valve end pad as an intermediate piece to which the threaded pin is connected.
US07775188B2 Plasma plug for an internal combustion engine
A plasma plug for an internal combustion engine includes a main body having an inner portion formed of ceramic and an outer portion formed of aluminum or other metal. A first electrode and a second electrode formed of Ruthenium dioxide are disposed axially within the electrically insulated portion of the main body. The plasma plug further includes a donut shaped toroidal capacitor situated circumferentially about the main body of the plasma plug, having an open center, an outer plate connected to a high voltage, direct current generator, an inner plate selectively connected to the first electrode through a spark switch and a dielectric situated between the outer plate and the inner plate. A resistive element connected in series to the first electrode and the second electrode is situated at the lower portion of the main body. The second electrode is either grounded or can float above ground to complete the circuit.
US07775186B2 Supporting structure for a camshaft, as well as methods for mounting and manufacturing a camshaft
A cam lobe is formed as a single part, not formed together with a shaft body. The shaft body penetrates through bearing holes, as well as a mounting hole provided in the cam lobe, which is arranged in between adjacent bearing holes. The bearing holes each in a perfect circular shape can be achieved, since there is no need to divide the bearing holes into two semi-circular arc shaped concave portions. Consequently, a camshaft can be supported so as to rotate smoothly.
US07775185B2 Lift amount adjusting device in lift-variable valve-operating mechanism
In a lift amount adjusting device in a valve-operating mechanism which changes at least a lift amount, a rocker arm is rockably arranged in a driving-force transmitting path for transmitting a driving force of a valve cam to an engine valve, and a jig abuts on the rocker arm to establish a rocking fulcrum in place of a hydraulic tappet which generates an urging force for adjusting a clearance of the driving-force transmission path. Even when an engine is stopped to make the hydraulic tappet inoperative, the jig secures a rocking fulcrum of the rocker arm, thereby enabling adjustment of the lift amount of the intake valve. Also, a load acting on the rocker arm during the adjustment of a lift amount of the intake valve is supported by the jig, and is not transmitted to the hydraulic tappet.
US07775180B2 Livestock blow dryer with diverter valve
A blower system for livestock may include a housing. An air inlet may be located on the housing. One or more motors may be located in the housing. One or more fans may be coupled to at least one of the motors. The fans may be located in the housing. The fans may draw air in through the air inlet and expel air out through an air outlet located on the housing. A valve may be coupled to the air outlet and the air inlet. The valve may recirculate at least some air back into the air inlet. The valve may selectively control the amount of air exiting the blower system and recirculating back into the blower system. The blower system may be portable. The blower system may allow a user to apply the air from the air outlet to livestock.
US07775177B2 Circuit pattern forming device and circuit pattern forming method
A circuit pattern forming device includes a liquid ejection device that ejects an insulating pattern forming solution and a conductive pattern forming solution onto a substrate to form insulating dots of the insulating solution and conductive dots of the conductive solution on the substrate. A control device controls an ejection operation that the liquid ejection device performs for each of the solutions. A moving device moves the liquid ejection device and the substrate relative to each other to form a circuit pattern composed of a plurality of the conductive dots and the insulating dots. The liquid ejection device includes a first nozzle array in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting the insulating solution are arranged along a crossing direction crossing a main scan direction, and a second nozzle array in which a plurality of nozzles for ejecting the conductive solution are arranged along the crossing direction. The first nozzle array is disposed in front of the second nozzle array with respect to the main scan direction and the second nozzle array is arranged between a plurality of the first nozzle arrays. When the insulating dots and the conductive dots are formed close to each other on the substrate, the insulating dots, which are positioned in a direction in which the liquid ejection device moves relative to the substrate, are formed on the substrate prior to the conductive dots in a same main scan performed by the liquid ejection device.
US07775176B2 Device for adjustably suspending a boat fender from a rod holder
A boat fender system is configured for suspending a boat fender from a conventional rod holder. The system includes a handle configured for engagement by a rod holder. A boat fender is coupled to the handle by a tether. The tether has a length to allow the fender to hang from the handle to a desired location. The length may be fixed or adjustable. A compartment in the handle stores excess and unused portions of the tether.
US07775170B2 Stitchbonded fabric with a discontinuous substrate
A process makes stitchbonded fabric having a regionally segmented discontinuous base layer of webs of substrate material extending in the machine direction which webs are laterally separated by a region devoid of substrate material. The region devoid of substrate is formed prior to stitching by either (a) slitting the substrate and folding the material adjacent the slits outwardly in contact with substrate material outboard of the slit, or (b) slitting the substrate while applying tension in the machine direction that moves adjacent lips of the slit material away from each other. Once the discontinuous base layer is formed, threads are stitched through the laterally separated webs of substrate material and the intermediate region devoid of substrate material.
US07775169B2 Access assembly between adjacent product storage tanks on a planting implement
An access assembly leading to first and second storage tanks of a planting implement is provided. The access assembly includes a central ramp located between and fixed in relation to the first and second storage tanks, and an extended ramp having a forward end opposite a rearward end aligned in a fore-and-aft direction relative to the direction of travel of the implement. The forward end of the ramp is pivotally connected about a first horizontal axis at a rearward end of the central ramp. The access assembly further includes a ladder pivotally independently coupled about a second horizontal axis at the rearward end of the extended ramp. The ladder and the extended ramp pivot together about the first horizontal axis at the forward end of the extended ramp between a lowered, operative position and a raised, inoperative position above the central ramp.
US07775168B2 Apparatus and method for the injection of viscous fertilizer below the surface of the soil
The invention pertains to apparatus and methods for injecting viscous fertilizer, such as dewatered biosolids, below the surface of the soil. The invention also pertains to apparatus and methods for creating a continuous flow of viscous material and for dividing a flow of viscous material.
US07775164B2 Combination table
A combination table (1) arranged for use as a baby changing table or a desk or a partition, including either two vertical side members (2) and one horizontal table top (5) and at least one horizontal shelf (7); or two vertical side members (2) and one horizontal table top (5) and one horizontal crossbeam (10) and alternatively one or more shelves (7) mounted between the side members (2); or at least two vertical side members (2) mounted together by its vertical edges.
US07775162B1 Roller for trolley assembly
A roller for a trolley assembly, which includes at least one track and at least one pin adapted to carry a hanger, includes, in one embodiment thereof, a bearing substantially split to define at least two independent parts of the split bearing. A housing rollingly engages along the at least one track and houses the bearing. A bushing is housed within the housing, carries the pin, supports the bearing about the bushing, and defines at least one shoulder adapted to substantially positively abuttingly engage the at least two parts of the bearing to substantially prevent rotation of the bearing about the bushing during rolling of the housing along the at least one track.
US07775161B2 Snowboarders chair for use on a ski lift
The present invention relates to a ski lift chair specifically designed for use by snowboarders. The chair comprises a plurality of seats facing in a perpendicular to the line of travel direction and can be either in-line back to back, in-line front-to-back or a combination of the two. The chair can be mixed on a ski lift with chairs designed for skiers or used alone with only snowboarder chairs.
US07775154B2 Pivot block assembly of an electric fryer
A pivot assembly for use in an electric fryer that rotates heating elements out of a frypot, and a pivot housing that prevents the passage of outside contaminants from entering the pivot assembly. The pivot assembly comprises a tube that has mounting position for heating elements, and the elements can be lowered and raised into the frypot. The pivot housing comprises a hood that fits over the pivot assembly and forms a seal around the assembly, preventing the passage of oil therethrough. The tube of the pivot assembly can comprise one or more heating elements, and the heating elements can be lowered or raised independently of one another.
US07775149B2 Action rate control system
An action rate control system for a gas operated firearm that includes an action sleeve and an action rate control cylinder. The action sleeve moves in a rearward direction in response to a volume of combustion gases that are generated during firing of the firearm and diverted from the barrel of the firearm through gas ports. The action rate control cylinder is connected to the action sleeve by a linkage that controls movement and slowing of the action sleeve as it approaches a rear limit for its movement. The resistance force generated by the rate control cylinder is a function of the velocity of the action sleeve during its movement. In another aspect, a gas operated firearm includes a barrel, a bolt assembly, an action system coupled to the bolt assembly, and a rate control cylinder coupled to the action system. The action system includes a sleeve assembly that is driven by a volume of combustion gases that are diverted from the barrel when a round of ammunition is fired. The rate control cylinder controls a terminal velocity of the sleeve assembly being driven by the volume of combustion gases. A resistance force generated by the rate control cylinder is a function of the velocity of the bolt assembly during the bolt assembly's rearward movement. The velocity of the bolt assembly follows a controlled and gradual reduction as the energy load associated with the firing is absorbed by the rate control cylinder.
US07775148B1 Multivalve hypervelocity launcher (MHL)
Launching payloads at high velocity uses high-pressure gas or combustion products for propulsion, with injection of high pressure gas at intervals along the path behind the payload projectile as it accelerates along the barrel of the launcher. An inner barrel has an interior diameter equal to the projectile diameter or sabot containing the projectile. An outer casing surrounds the inner barrel. Structures at intervals attach the outer casing and the inner barrel. An axial gas containment chamber (AGC) stores high pressure gas between the inner barrel wall, the outer casing wall, and enclosure bulkheads. Pressure-activated valves along the barrel sequentially release the high pressure gas contained in the AGC in to the barrel to create a continuously refreshed high energy pressure heads behind the projectile as it moves down the barrel. A frangible cover at the exit end of the barrel allows the barrel to be evacuated prior to launch. The launcher is rapidly recyclable. The valves close automatically after the projectile has exited the barrel, allowing a new projectile to be introduced into the breech and the AGC to be recharged with high-pressure gas.
US07775147B2 Dual redundant electro explosive device latch mechanism
A latch including a first electrical explosive device disposed between first and second surfaces and a second electrical explosive device disposed between said first and second surfaces in series with said first electrical explosive device. In the illustrative embodiment, the vehicle is a missile or torpedo, the first surface is a drag door and the second surface is a vehicle body. In this embodiment, the first electrical explosive device is coupled to the vehicle body on a first end of the device and to a common series attachment on another end thereof and the second electrical explosive device is connected to the common series attachment on a first end and to the drag door on a second end thereof. An arrangement is included for activating the electrical explosive devices to effect a deployment of the drag door with a high degree of reliability.
US07775146B1 System and method for neutralizing explosives and electronics
Disclosed is a system and method for neutralizing explosives and electronics utilizing a high voltage electrical discharge.
US07775141B2 Extended low-torque ratchet wrench
A reversible ratchet device is provided as a low-torque application wrench in the form of an elongated body carrying a ratchet mechanism thereon, the ratchet mechanism being operable under low-torque conditions such as are present with initial driving or final loosening of a workpiece. The device includes the ratchet mechanism carried directly on the body, both being co-axially rotatable with each other and with the workpiece.
US07775139B2 Steering wheel structure
A steering wheel structure, comprising: an internal member provided inside a vehicle steering wheel; a covering member, adhered to a surface of the internal member and covering the internal member; a first concave-convex portion, provided at the surface of the internal member and disposed in a predetermined pattern thereon; and a second concave-convex portion, provided at surfaces of the first concave-convex portion, is provided.
US07775138B2 Wire fixing structure
A Bowden wire is positioned at two points, that is, at a wire guide bracket and at a through-hole in a back plate between which a notch of an end edge of a plate-shaped trailing arm is interposed. A predetermined preset load is applied to and curves the Bowden wire, wherein the curved Bowden wire is pressed against and fixed to a groove-shaped recess provided in the notch of the trailing arm.
US07775137B2 Adjustable steering column for a motor vehicle
An adjustable steering column for a motor vehicle includes a steering spindle, a jacket unit bearing the steering spindle, a bracket unit, mountable on the chassis of the motor vehicle, with at least one side jaw, which extends laterally of the jacket unit and bears the jacket unit (3), an openable and closable securement device which includes a clamp bolt penetrating elongated holes in the jacket unit and in the at least one side jaw, as well as at least one bracing part penetrated by the clamp bolt. The at least one bracing part is implemented in the form of a substantially planar plate. A connection with the jacket unit and the side jaw, displaceable into the particular displacement direction of the steering column and nondisplaceable into the particular other displacement direction, is completed through at least one bolt penetrating an elongated hole, wherein the bolt is connected with one of the two parts to be connected nondisplaceably into both displacement directions and the elongated hole is disposed in the other of the two parts to be connected and extends in the particular displacement direction.
US07775133B2 Vehicle transmission
A vehicle transmission includes first and second main shafts that enable switching of power transmission from an engine; a counter shaft connected to a drive wheel; and gear trains with a plurality of shift stages provided between each of the first and second main shafts and the counter shaft. The vehicle transmission also includes shifters which switch between engagement with and disengagement from a gear constituting part of each of the gear trains so as to switch the established states of the gear trains, and to prevent, during running at the most frequently used shift stage, the occurrence of gear rattle produced by a gear train other than the gear train with such a shift stage. With this configuration, in the running state of using a particular gear train with the highest frequency of the established states among the gear trains, the gear trains, excluding the particular gear train, are in the non-established state.
US07775127B2 Method and system for measuring flow at patient utilizing differential force sensor
A fluid delivery system and method for measuring flow at a patient utilizing a differential force sensor in order to precisely control the flow of fluid at very low flow rates. The system includes a fluid line through which a fluid is conveyed to the patient, and a flow controller that selectively varies a rate of flow of the fluid through the fluid line. The differential force sensor can be mounted very close to a point of entry of the fluid into the patient's body. An onboard communications device is controllably coupled to the flow controller and to the force sensor, responds to an output signal, and provides a feedback to the flow controller in a closed-loop process. The system can pump the fluid at a higher frequency until the flow rate is actually reached at the patient and then adjust to the flow rate needed to ensure patient health.
US07775124B2 Ultrasonic sensor with reciprocal transmitting and receiving circuit
An ultrasonic sensor has at least two ultrasonic converters for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic signals, connected with a transmitting circuit and a receiving circuit. A switching device is provided, by which the ultrasonic converters are connected in series when in the transmission mode, and they are separated from each other when in the receiving mode.
US07775122B1 Tape overlay for laser bond inspection
Tape overlays for use in laser bond inspection are provided, as well as laser bond inspection systems and methods utilizing tape overlays.
US07775120B2 Electromechanical actuator test apparatus
An electromechanical actuator test system includes an inertia simulator, a first load actuator, a second load actuator, and a test system control. The inertia simulator simulates the inertia of at least a portion of a system that is moved by a test actuator. The first load actuator supplies a first load to the inertia simulator to simulate at least one or more dynamic system loads, and the second load actuator supplies a second load to the inertia simulator to simulate at least one or more steady-state system loads. The test system control supplies the first actuator commands and the second actuator commands.
US07775113B2 Sound sources separation and monitoring using directional coherent electromagnetic waves
An apparatus and a method that achieve physical separation of sound sources by pointing directly a beam of coherent electromagnetic waves (i.e. laser). Analyzing the physical properties of a beam reflected from the vibrations generating sound source enable the reconstruction of the sound signal generated by the sound source, eliminating the noise component added to the original sound signal. In addition, the use of multiple electromagnetic waves beams or a beam that rapidly skips from one sound source to another allows the physical separation of these sound sources. Aiming each beam to a different sound source ensures the independence of the sound signals sources and therefore provides full sources separation.
US07775109B2 Sensor device
A sensor device includes a time determining part that determines time point information, and adds the time point information to the output supplied from a part subjected to failure diagnosis and related to generation of a failure detection signal, and to the output related to generation of a sense signal. With this structure, the failure detection signal is correlated with the sense signal by the time point information. Alternatively, the sensor device includes an output circuit that correlates the failure detection signal with the sense signal supplied at the same time point as the failure detection signal, and outputs both signals using a time division method.
US07775106B2 Non-contact radar based level measurement device
A system and method for using a probe-based guided-wave radar sensor to measure fluid level in a container in a non-contact mode are provided. The system and method of the current invention replaces a wall section of the fluid container, such as a steel slurry tub with a panel of radar-transparent material, such as plastic. The level probe is mounted external to the container, adjacent to the radar-transparent panel. By avoiding contact between the sensor probe and the fluid, whether the fluid be cement slurry or another fluid prone to probe degradation, it is possible to eliminate the possibility of contamination, build-up, caking and/or damage to the probe along with the associated degradation in sensor performance.
US07775102B2 Method for testing a high-pressure pump in a fuel system
A method for testing the function of a high-pressure pump having a plurality of pump elements, which each define a respective work chamber which is in communication, via a suction valve with a low-pressure region, from which fuel can be aspirated, and via a pressure valve with a high-pressure region which includes a central high-pressure fuel reservoir, serving to supply fuel to an internal combustion engine, into which high-pressure reservoir the high-pressure pump pumps the fuel aspirated from the low-pressure region, and the pressure of which is detected by a rail pressure sensor. The values detected by the rail pressure sensor are used in the built-in state of the high-pressure pump in operation of the engine for testing the function of the high-pressure pump.
US07775100B2 Real-time management system for slickline/wireline
A real-time line management system and associated methods. A line management system for use in conjunction with an operation in a subterranean well includes a line installed in the well during the operation, and a computing device which indicates a used life of the line during the operation. A method of managing a line used in an operation in a subterranean well includes the steps of: installing the line in the well during the operation; and determining a used life of the line while the line is installed in the well. A method of managing a line used in multiple operations in one or more subterranean wells includes the steps of: estimating conditions which will be experienced by the line during a future operation; and predicting before the future operation what a used life of the line will be after the line is used in the future operation.
US07775099B2 Downhole tool sensor system and method
An apparatus and method for determining forces on a downhole drilling tool is provided. The downhole tool is provided with a drill collar operatively connectable to the drilling tool, and a sensor mounted about the drill collar. The sensor is adapted to measure deformation of the drill collar whereby forces on the drilling tool are determined. The sensor may be part of a force measurement system, a strain gauge system or a drilling jar system. The drill collar is adapted to magnify and/or isolate the deformation applied to the drill string.
US07775098B2 Method for Assigning a Tire Pressure Monitoring System After Driving Interruptions and Device and System for Measuring Air Pressure in a Vehicle Tire
A method for assigning a position of a tire, having a tire sensor, on a vehicle, includes transmitting, with the sensor, a signal including at least an identification number of the sensor following activation by a signal from an LF antenna connected to an evaluation unit. At a system start time, the evaluation unit first initiates an initialization including determination of the position of each tire having a sensor. The evaluation unit stores the identification number of each sensor together with the determined position of the tire having the sensor, before switching into a normal operating mode in which tire data, for example air pressure, is monitored by the sensors, with the position and preferably assignment of the sensor to a specific LF antenna, being stored in the sensor and kept available for retrieval. A device and a system for measuring air pressure in a vehicle tire are also provided.
US07775093B2 Apparatus for indicating loading in landing gear having exceeded a predetermined threshold
Apparatus for indicating loading in a structure having exceeded a predetermined threshold is disclosed in which deformation of a structural element is identified by the torque required to rotate a gauge assembly integrated in the structure.
US07775092B2 Fuel delivery system and method
Systems and methods for determining a plurality of characteristics of a fuel and controlling a fuel delivery system based on the characteristics of the fuel. A controller generates a plurality of control signals. The control signals are transmitted to at least one ultrasonic transducer, a capacitance sensor, and a temperature sensor. Each of the ultrasonic transducer, capacitance sensor, and temperature sensor generate at least one output signal which is transmitted back to the controller. The controller determines, based on the output signals, the plurality of characteristics of the fuel. The characteristics of the fuel can include, for example, temperature, density, dielectric constant, and the like. The controller then compares the characteristics of the fuel to a set of characteristics of a first fuel type and a second fuel type and controls a fuel delivery device based on the characteristics of the fuel.
US07775088B2 Atomic force microscope tip arrays and methods of manufacturing same
The present invention provides methods and apparatus for forming an array of multiple nanotube tips that can be utilized with AFM technology. The multiprobe tips may be independently modified or specifically left unmodified. Software can generate a composite image of data collected from two or more of the independently modified and unmodified tips.
US07775084B2 Fluid probe
A device for detecting a property of a fluid includes a body region and a flexible element having a first end and a second end. The first end is fixedly located on the body region. The flexible element is arranged to move from at least a first configuration to a second configuration via bending of the flexible element. The flexible element includes an actuating portion arranged to move the flexible element between the first configuration and the second configuration. The device also includes a movement detector for detecting movement of the flexible element.
US07775083B2 System and method for monitoring parameters in containers
A system for measuring parameters in a container is disclosed. A system for measuring multiple parameters includes a container having a solution, at least one sensor in conjunction with a tag is in proximity to an impedance analyzer and a reader that constitute a measurement device. The at least one sensor is configured to determine at least one parameter of the solution. The tag is configured to provide a digital ID associated with the sensor, where the container is in proximity to the reader and an impedance analyzer. The impedance analyzer is configured to send and receive a given range of frequencies from the sensor, based on the parameter and calculate parameter changes based on the response.
US07775082B2 Vehicle rollover test fixture
A test fixture for rollover crash testing of a test vehicle onto a moving surface employs a cradle to support and rotate the test vehicle. A vertical support structure to position and releasably holds the cradle. A moving sled having a contact surface and is carried by a guide extending beneath the structure and the cradle fixture. The cradle is rotated and released from the structure responsive to a sensor for contact within a drop impact zone on the contact surface of the moving sled. Vertical motion of the cradle is then arrested to prevent further damage to the test vehicle or the test structure.
US07775079B2 Rolling method and rolling apparatus for flat-rolled metal materials
A rolling method and a rolling apparatus for flat rolled metal materials stably produce flat-rolled metal 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. The pinch rolls apply tension to the rolled material. The difference between the rolling direction force acting on the pinch rolls at the right and left sides is calculated. Optionally, the rolling direction force acting on the work rolls at the right and left sides is also calculated. The left-right difference of the roll gap of the work rolls is controlled as a result of the calculated difference.
US07775077B2 Closing method and closing machine
In a closing machine (1), an inner diameter chuck (8) that grips an inner peripheral surface of a work piece (9), a work piece (9) introducing device that moves the inner diameter chuck (8) in a Y axis direction of the work piece (9), and an introduction stopper (12) that projects onto an introduction path of the work piece (9) are used in such a manner that the inner diameter chuck (8) grips the inner peripheral surface of the work piece (9) while the work piece (9) abuts against the introduction stopper (12), the introduction stopper (12) is removed from the introduction path of the work piece (9), and the work piece (9) is introduced into an outer diameter chuck (7) by moving the inner diameter chuck (8) in the Y axis direction of the work piece (9).
US07775076B2 Pinch-point lock-seam tubing, pinch point seaming devices, and methods for manufacturing stabilized lock-seam tubing
Many types of stabilized lock-seam tubing are provided, as well as devices, apparatus and methods for producing such stabilized tubing. Advantageously, pinch-locked tubing according to the invention, which comprise interlocking, spaced pinched deformations of the lock-seam, greatly resists side-slip and other shape deformations, including those typically produced by cutting the tubing, and by ovalizing it. Many permutations of lock-seam pinching rollers and related devices for producing stabilized lock-seam tubing are provided. Pinch roller assemblies of the invention are suitable for use with conventional machines as well as machines adapted specifically for them. Apparatus of the invention are suitable producing helically wound or straight lock-seam tubing.
US07775074B1 System for obstructing movement of lock pins
A system for obstructing movement of a pin in a pin tumbler lock is disclosed. The system includes a pin movable in a bore in a plug of a pin tumbler lock, and the pin has a channel formed thereon for receiving a portion of a sidebar of the lock. The system further includes a blocking member mounted on the pin and configured to obstruct movement of the portion of the sidebar along the channel of the pin.
US07775071B2 Pre-loaded barrel lock
A lock assembly including a first lock portion having an open end which receives a key. The assembly further includes a second lock portion operatively connected to the first lock portion and a spring operatively attached to the first and second lock portions. Wherein one of the first and second lock portions is capable of biased rotational movement independent of the other of the first and second lock portions.
US07775070B2 Door power interruption safety switch of washing machine and method of operation thereof
Door lock switch of washing apparatus, and method for controlling the same, the door lock switch for locking or unlocking a door, and cutting off a current applied to electric driving units under operation when the door is opened forcibly, thereby controlling electric driving units under operation effectively for improving operation efficiency and safety of the washing apparatus when the door is opened forcibly.
US07775068B2 Production method and production device for laminated glass
A production method for laminated glass capable of performing a firing step for a fired substance and a bend-forming step to an inner sheet and an outer sheet in the same forming furnace when laminated glass having a fired substance between an inner sheet and an outer sheet is produced, whereby the inner sheet and the outer sheet overlap each other with high accuracy and a production device thereof, are provided.A production method for laminated glass having a fired substance between an inner sheet 2 and an outer sheet 3 wherein a firing step for firing a fired substance in a state that the inner sheet 2 and the outer sheet 3 are kept away and a bend-forming step in a state that the inner sheet 2 and the outer sheet 3 overlap each other, is carried out in the same forming furnace.
US07775066B2 Method and device for rapid and high-power cold production
The invention relates to refrigeration using a thermochemical system based on the coupling of two reversible physico-chemical phenomena between a gas and a solid or liquid sorbent, one at low temperature (the LT phenomenon) and the other at a higher temperature (the HT phenomenon).The LT phenomenon is a liquid/gas phase change of the fluid G or an absorption of the fluid G by a liquid sorbent. The HT phenomenon is a reversible sorption of the fluid G by a liquid or solid sorbent. The endothermic phase of the LT phenomenon takes place in a reactor thermally isolated from the ambient environment. The exothermic phase of the LT phenomenon takes place in a condenser in communication with the reactor in which the HT phenomenon takes place, the condensed fluid G then being transferred to the reactor in which the endothermic phase of the LT phenomenon takes place.
US07775064B2 Evaporative cooler
The invention relates to an evaporative cooler having two medium circuits which are thermally coupled to one another by a number of heat-conducting vertical walls. These walls and the heat-conducting fins arranged thereon are provided with a hydrophilic, water-buffering covering layer, for example made from Portland cement. A humidification unit for moistening the covering layer is added to the dew point cooler. According to the invention, the humidification unit comprises a releasable cover which forms part of the casing of the dew point cooler and bears at least one sprinkler or nozzle for distributing water over the covering layer.
US07775057B2 Operational limit to avoid liquid refrigerant carryover
A refrigerant system comprising a compressor, a condenser, an electronic expansion valve, and an evaporator is controlled in a normal operating mode to meet moderate cooling loads; however, when the load approaches that which is sufficient to induce liquid refrigerant carryover from the evaporator to the compressor, the system is controlled in a capped operating mode to limit a certain thermodynamic variable rather than controlled to meet the high load. In the normal mode, the compressor and/or the expansion valve might be controlled in response to the amount of superheat of the refrigerant leaving the evaporator or the level of liquid refrigerant in the evaporator. In the capped operating mode, the compressor and/or the expansion valve might be controlled to limit a variable such as the compressor's capacity, the saturated pressure or dynamic pressure of the refrigerant entering the compressor, or the refrigerant's mass flow rate.
US07775056B2 Intelligent refrigerator for storing pharmaceutical product containers
Intelligent refrigerator system for storing pharmaceutical product containers, such as vials, ampules, syringes, bottles, medication tubes, blister packs and cartons, at the point of dispensing. Embodiments of the invention use product identification technology, such as radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags and readers, to uniquely identify containers as they are added to or removed from the cold storage compartment of the refrigerator, and automatically retrieve from a local or remote database a variety of details associated with the containers and their contents, such as manufacturing data, expiration dates, time out of refrigeration, inventory levels, safety information, usage statistics, known contraindications and warnings, etc. If the details indicate that there is a problem with a particular pharmaceutical (e.g., that it is counterfeit, expired, suspect, spoiled, recalled or almost depleted), then a message or warning is automatically delivered to a human operator via an attached output device, such as a display screen, speaker or printer. Embodiments of the invention may also be configured to monitor and report temperature faults, power failures and other anomalies associated with the refrigerator or cold storage compartment.
US07775054B2 Air conditioner
The air conditioner includes a first and a second heat exchanger, a plurality of compressors, a pipe for uniform distribution of oil, a plurality of oil separators, and an oil return opening. The first heat exchanger performs heat exchange between air of an indoor space and refrigerant to condition the air. The second heat exchanger is connected to the first heat exchanger through a pipe, to perform heat exchange between the refrigerant and water. The plurality of compressors is installed at one side of the second heat exchanger, to compress the refrigerant to a high temperature and a high pressure. The pipe for uniform distribution of oil communicates the plurality of compressors with each other, to guide a flow of oil within the plurality of compressors to flow between the compressors. Each oil separator is provided at an outlet of a respective compressor, to separate oil included in refrigerant discharged from the compressors. The oil return opening guides the oil separated by each of the oil separators to flow into all or any one of the plurality of compressors.
US07775050B2 Method and apparatus for reducing stresses induced to combustor assemblies
A method for assembling a combustor for use in a turbine engine is provided. The method includes providing at least one support leg, forming at least one opening in the support leg, wherein the at least one opening has a perimeter defined only by a plurality of non-linear segments, and coupling the support leg to the combustor.
US07775049B2 Integrated strut design for mid-turbine frames with U-base
A mid-turbine frame connected to at least one mount of a gas turbine engine transfers a first load from a first bearing and a second load from a second bearing to the mount. The mid-turbine frame includes a single point load structure and a plurality of struts. The single point load structure combines the first load and the second load into a combined load. The plurality of struts is connected to the single point load structure and transfers the combined load from the single point load structure to the mount.
US07775048B2 Seal assembly
A sprung seal assembly includes a flexible sprung seal having a center section disposed between opposing curved and cantilevered first and second end sections. First and second free edges of the first and second end sections respectively are trapped within a retainer. First and second sliding lugs attached to the first and second free edges respectively are slidably disposed in first and second channels respectively. The first and second free edges are trapped in the retainer by the first and second sliding lugs disposed in the first and second channels between a mounting surface and the retainer attached to the mounting surface. The center section may have a wear strip. The sprung seal assembly may be disposed between a relatively fixed sidewall and a relatively movable flap of a nozzle assembly. The retainer is mounted to the flap and the center section is in sealing engagement with a sealing surface of the sidewall.
US07775045B2 Method and system for producing power from a source of steam
The present invention provides a power plant system for producing power using a source of steam, comprising a vaporizer into which steam from a source of steam is supplied, for vaporizing organic working fluid flowing through the vaporizer; at least one turbine wherein one of the turbines is an organic vapor turbine to which the vaporized working fluid is supplied and which is suitable for generating electricity and producing; expanded organic vapor; a recuperator for heating organic vapor condensate flowing towards the vaporizer the expanded organic vapor exhausted from the organic vapor turbine and two or more stages of preheating means for additionally heating organic working fluid exiting the recuperator and flowing towards the vaporizer, wherein fluid extracted from one of the turbine is delivered to one of the stages of preheating means.
US07775042B1 Method of transforming thermal energy
A method of generating motion from a cool region that is proximal to a warm region, the cool region and the warm region defining a temperature range. The method uses an article of phase change material having a warm-to-cold phase transition and a cold-to-warm phase transition, both within the temperature range. This article is exposed to the cool region, thereby causing the phase change material to change size. When the warm-to-cold phase transition is substantially complete, this is detected. In response to this detection the article is exposed to the warm region, thereby causing the phase change material to change size. When this transition is substantially complete, the cycle is restarted with exposure to the cool region.
US07775040B2 Bidirectional hydraulic transformer
A hydraulic transformer is disclosed. The hydraulic transformer may have a housing, and a first pumping mechanism disposed within the housing and rotated in a first direction by fluid pressure. The hydraulic transformer may also have a second pumping mechanism disposed within the housing and rotated by the first pumping mechanism in the first direction to increase the fluid pressure. The hydraulic transformer may further have a common shaft connecting the first and second reversible pumping mechanisms. One of the first and second pumping mechanisms may also be rotated in a second direction opposite the first by fluid pressure. The other of the first and second pumping mechanisms may also be rotated by the one of the first and second pumping mechanisms in the second direction to increase the fluid pressure.
US07775037B2 Exhaust gas temperature control method, exhaust gas temperature control apparatus, and internal combustion engine system
The exhaust gas temperature control method includes executing an exhaust gas temperature control to raise an exhaust gas temperature upon determining that a purificatory performance of an exhaust gas purification device of an engine has declined. The step of executing of the exhaust gas temperature control includes performing a first fuel injection control in which a timing of a main fuel injection is retarded and a post fuel injection is executed after the main fuel injection when the internal combustion engine is operating in the first operating region, and performing a second fuel injection control in which the timing of the main fuel injection is retarded and an execution of the post fuel injection after the main fuel injection is prohibited when the internal combustion engine is operating in the second operating region.
US07775036B2 Exhaust gas subsequent treatment method and method therefor
A method and device for treating exhaust gases of an internal combustion engine with a reducing agent introduced into the exhaust gases. The reducing agent is pumped out of a reactant reservoir and to a dosing valve so that after the dosing valve is opened, the reducing agent can be introduced into the engine's exhaust gas line in a dosed manner. Reducing agent can be conveyed back from the delivery device to the reservoir via a return line. The reducing agent can circulate between the delivery device and the reactant reservoir thereby, particularly when the dosing valve is closed, preventing the reactant from freezing.
US07775035B2 Procedure to operate a metering device of an exhaust gas emission control system and device to implement the procedure
A procedure to operate a metering device of an exhaust gas emission control system of an internal combustion engine and a device to implement the procedure are proposed. At least one component in an exhaust gas emission control configuration of the exhaust gas emission control system requires at least in certain operating conditions a reagent substance, which the metering device provides, in which a connecting line is disposed. After the emergence of a metering demand signal a reagent substance rate-set point is established. The reagent substance rate-set point is either established immediately when the metering demand signal occurs and subsequently no longer changed until the connecting line is filled with the reagent substance; or the reagent substance rate-set point is only then established if the connecting line is filled with the reagent substance. An overdose of the reagent substance is avoided with the procedural approach according to the invention.
US07775032B2 Method of operating an exhaust nozzle assembly
A method of operating an exhaust nozzle assembly includes translating a translatable structure between a plurality of operational positions to open and close a flow diverting port extending in an exhaust duct. The longitudinal position of a throat constriction varies with translation of the translatable structure. Additionally, the cross-sectional area of the exhaust duct at the throat constriction may vary with translation of the translatable structure. An exemplary exhaust nozzle is operable in-flight for providing at least partial reverse thrust to at least partly control the velocity of an aircraft. An exemplary exhaust nozzle is operable on the ground to spoil ground idle thrust.
US07775029B2 Manufacturing method and apparatus for producing digital yarns using hybrid metal for high speed communication and digital yarns thereof
A manufacturing method and apparatus for producing digital yarns using hybrid metal for high speed communication, which can be connected to a network to exchange information in real time in the ubiquitous era, and digital yarns made using the method thereof. The manufacturing method and apparatus for producing digital yarns using hybrid metal for high speed communication and digital yarns thereof comprises producing a hybrid metal rod; drawing the hybrid metal rod; producing a micro filament; feeding the micro filament; softening the micro filament; forming a sliver; forming a spun yarn; winding the spun yarn; coating the spun yarn with an electromagnetic shielding resin; drying the spun yarn with the electromagnetic shielding resin; and covering the spun yarn with a textile yarn and the digital yarn made in accordance with this method.
US07775028B2 Annular metal cord and endless metal belt
An annular metal cord includes an annular core portion and an outer layer portion. The annular core portion is formed by connecting together both ends of a first strand material which is made up of six twisted first metal filaments. The outer layer portion is formed by winding spirally a second strand material which is made up of six twisted second metal filaments around the annular core portion. The second strand material is wound at a predetermined winding angle relative to a center axis of the annular core portion, and a winding initiating end portion and a winding terminating end portion are connected together. As a result, the breaking strength of the annular metal cord can be made large, and the production thereof can be facilitated.
US07775024B2 Offset floating hitch rotary mower apparatus
A rotary mower apparatus comprising a mower deck and two wings, with a plurality of rear wheels mounted behind the mower decks and at least two front wheels mounted ahead of the mower decks such that the mower decks ride along the ground; a floating hitch member is pivotally attached about a vertical and horizontal hitch axes to the front end of the central mower deck and pivotally attached at an opposite end to a tractor allowing the mower decks to float independently. The hitch member contains a mower angle control comprising a bell crank and a hydraulic actuator fixedly attached to a vertical shaft; and a driveline comprising gearboxes, drive shafts, universal joints, and double universal joints arranged such that the mower angle control can pivot the hitch about the vertical hitch axis moving the mower from a minimum offset position to the maximum offset position.
US07775022B2 Method for handling a gas turbine engine during packaging
The method is used for handing a gas turbine engine during packaging. The method comprises receiving the engine at a handling apparatus pivotally secured to the floor, removably connecting the engine to the handling apparatus, pivoting the engine while supported on the handling apparatus, lowering the engine into a container, and then removably connecting the engine to the container.
US07775019B2 Automated operation application module, in particular for a packaging machine
An automated operation application module for a packaging machine comprises a frame, a suspension joined to the frame for rolls of packaging material, and a pre-unwinding unit for supplying the packaging material to the film storage unit. The application module has a film storage unit joined to the frame, a sealing station joined to the frame, a film pre-drawing unit joined to the frame for supplying the packaging material to the sealing station, and a film-forwarding unit joined to the frame for forwarding the processed packaging material to a packaging machine.
US07775018B2 Reciprocating sealer for web converters
Various device embodiments include first and second plate assemblies. Each plate assembly includes a base, a seal plate, one or more air bladders and a servo motor to provide a linear motion of the seal plate with respect to the base. The device further includes at least one plate assembly motor operably linked to the bases of the plate assemblies to provide a linear motion of the first and second plate assemblies toward each other to perform a sealing operation and away from each other. The device further includes a controller connected to the at least one plate assembly motor and to the first and second servo motors to coordinate the motion of the first and second seal plates to perform a seal operation on a web while traveling with the web.
US07775014B2 Method and arrangement for studsystem
The present invention relates to a method for attaching a first stud (20) against a transverse second stud (30). The respective stud(s) include(s) at least two opposite flanges (5). A connector piece (40) is brought to extend at said first stud (20) into a longitudinal groove which is arranged at a flange inner side (6), whereby an outer locking end (42) arranged at said connector piece is brought into a locking engagement with a corresponding groove (12) in the other stud (30). The present invention also relates to a stud (20, 30) which includes opposite flanges (5) and a first longitudinal groove between said flanges. An additional longitudinal groove (12) extends in into the respective flange (5) and defines a retaining edge (14) for a connector piece (40) which extends in the groove. The present invention further relates to a connector piece (40) for connecting studs (20, 30). The connector piece (40) includes side portions (43, 44, 45) which in an engaging manner are enclosed by a groove (12) in the respective stud (20, 30).
US07775008B2 Continuous production of plastic siding panels with separate shingle appearance
A method and an apparatus for continuously producing elongated siding panels is disclosed. The apparatus includes a conveyor, a plurality of mold plates, and a die for extruding a sheet of material onto the mold plates. The mold plates are formed of a rigid material and positioned adjacent one another and supported by the conveyor for forming the elongated siding panels. Each of the mold plates has an upper edge portion and a lower edge portion with an intermediate portion therebetween. The intermediate portion has an aesthetic pattern for imparting the pattern to the sheet of material with the adjacent mold plates having different aesthetic patterns. The lower edge portion has a lower leg extending substantially perpendicular from the intermediate portion defining a horizontal plane and a projection portion between the lower edge portion and the intermediate portion extends beyond the horizontal plane for imparting a jagged pattern to the intermediate portion.
US07774999B2 Roof vent
A roof vent is provide. The roof vent comprises a top component coupled to a bottom component. The top component has a top wall, a side wall, a first louvered region disposed between said top wall and said side wall, and a top cylindrical baffle located inwardly of said first louvered region. The bottom component has at least a first cylindrical collar sized and shaped for mounting to a cylindrical exhaust stack of a first diameter, a second louvered region, and a bottom cylindrical baffle located below and inwardly of the top cylindrical baffle. The first louvered and second louvered regions are for helping to prevent insects, and moisture, such as snow and rain, from entering the roof vent. The top component may also be used separately from the bottom component to cover over aging or aesthetically unpleasing passive pot vents.
US07774998B2 Ventilated photovoltaic module frame
In one embodiment, a photovoltaic frame assembly comprises a photovoltaic module and a frame having a plurality of air vents. The air vents allow air to flow into the frame and thereby cool the photovoltaic module. The frame may be installed in-line with another such frame to allow air flow between frames. The air vents may be located within a perimeter of the frame to allow for structural integrity while remaining aesthetically pleasing. The frame may include an inner lip, an outer lip, or both to provide different mounting options to accommodate different sites. The frame may comprise a plurality of frame members, such as extrusions including the air vents.
US07774993B2 Elongated edging assembly
An elongated edging assembly for holding landscaping and/or paving materials and the like in place in a predetermined location. The assembly may be made up of first and second elongated edger members which each include an elongated upright material retaining plate and a connector located adjacent an end of the corresponding member. The connectors desirably include respective mating interengageable components located on the plates near the ends thereof. The components are configured and adapted to cooperate to interconnect the members and maintain the ends of the respective plates in substantial abutting relationship with the plates in substantial alignment. The members may ideally be arranged as a neat packet of related objects including a pair of elongated members configured, arranged, aligned and joined together so as to present a single elongated construct having an open interior. At least one accessory item for said members is arranged within the open interior.
US07774992B2 Tile and strut construction system for geodesic dome
The present invention sets forth a tile and strut construction system for a geodesic dome. The tile has a generally triangular shape, with the corners cut out to accommodate hubs which retain supporting struts in position. The tile has a faceted 3-dimensional upper surface, integrally molded reinforcing ribs, a recess in the lower surface at each of its 3 edges.
US07774989B2 Snow guard and method of attaching the same
A snow guard and a method of attaching a snow guard to a seam of a metal roof wherein the snow guard includes a base having a first side wall, a second side wall, and a top wall that define a seam receiving channel. The first side wall is provided with at least one opening. The second side wall has at least one fixed projection extending from the second side wall into the seam receiving channel and toward the opening. At least one moveable fastener extends through the opening into the seam receiving channel and toward the projection, and a blade is attached to a base receiving end of the base.
US07774987B2 Movable building
A mobile building module comprises rigid load-bearing surface elements and one or more inflatable flexible surface elements connected therewith. In the transport condition, several of the load-bearing rigid surface elements are disposed to form a parallelepiped container having a floor and surrounding rigid walls for accommodating the inflatable flexible surface elements, with the height of the container being lower than the height of the building. A building, which is assembled of several partial modules, which are constructed according to the above-mentioned principles, is also an object of the invention.
US07774984B2 Concentric cross mechanism for transiting torsion
A concentric cross mechanism for transiting torsion includes a main body unit of a concentric cross mechanism, a main body unit of the torsion-driven mechanism, a main body unit of the force-generating mechanism, and a restriction device. A center point is defined by crossing a vertical concentric axis and a horizontal concentric axis. The axle of the driven bevel gear and the scroll springs spin reversely with the axle of the torsion-generating bevel gear. The first bevel gear is provided for outputting the torsion on the upper and bottom ends thereof. Furthermore, when the rotary rod connected with one side of the torsion output axle is disposed between the positioning block and the positioning post, the door is driven by the other side of the torsion output axle to swing in a predetermined angle.
US07774983B2 Door opening device in a vehicle
A door is pivotally secured to the back of a vehicle. A door opening device comprises a connecting rod including an upper end and a lower end. The upper end of the connecting rod is pivotally mounted to the door. The door opening device further comprises a guide member having a guide slit, a rack bar which slides up and down in the guide slit, a connecting shaft that pivotally connects the lower end of the connecting rod to an upper end of the rack bar and a driving unit for opening and closing the door via the connecting rod. The lower end of the connecting rod is pivotally coupled to the upper end of the rack bar.
US07774981B2 Plant container and method
The invention includes an improved container and method for growing a plant to be subsequently transplanted. In one embodiment, an upwardly extending container wall is adapted for retaining soil. A plurality gutters are disposed on an interior portion of the container wall. The gutters extend along the container wall to one or more openings, thereby guiding roots to the openings for air pruning the roots. A root guiding surface of the gutter may extend downwardly and outwardly to the container wall, to form a substantially v-shaped gutter. Alternatively, an upwardly extending lip may be disposed on an inner portion of the root guiding surface, forming a substantially u-shaped gutter between the lip, ledge, and the interior portion of the container wall. The gutters may also slope downward in a direction along the container wall to better accommodate the geotropic nature of plant roots. An upwardly extending finger may also be disposed on the container wall above each gutter, to guide roots to the nearest opening.
US07774980B2 Hydromulch container medium
A hydromulch container medium including a container and a root system disposed in the container. A hydraulically compactable mulch is interspersed between the root system and the container to form a semi-solid container medium around the root system.
US07774978B2 Method of controlling the release of agricultural active ingredients from treated plant seeds
A method of controlling the release rate of an agricultural active ingredient from a seed that has been treated with that active includes providing a seed that has been treated with the active ingredient, applying to the treated seed a film that includes an emulsion of a polymer in a liquid in which both the agricultural active ingredient and the polymer have low levels of solubility, and then curing the film to form a water insoluble polymer coating on the surface of the treated seed. Seeds that have been treated by this method are also provided.
US07774974B1 Fishing lure
A fishing lure has a body and a tail. The tail is coupled to one end of the body. The tail has a center portion and an outside edge that is arcuate around the center portion. A gap extends from the outside edge to the center portion. In one embodiment, the outside edge is thicker than the center portion of the tail. When the lure is retrieved, the tail moves back and forth and creates a noise and also causes the body to move back and forth, thus producing a desirable action.
US07774972B2 Modular shooting rests and shooting rest assemblies
Modular shooting rests and associated assemblies are disclosed herein. One embodiment of the disclosure, for example, is directed to a shooting rest assembly for supporting a firearm. The shooting rest assembly can include a first base portion and a second base portion. The first base portion has an exterior surface, an inner surface, and a bottom surface defining a bottom surface plane. The first base portion also includes an inner volume defined, at least in part, by the inner surface and the bottom surface plane. The second base portion is engaged with the first base portion in a configuration selected from (a) a first shooting rest arrangement, and (b) a second shooting rest arrangement. In the first shooting rest arrangement, the second base portion is received at least approximately completely within the inner volume of the first base portion in a nested configuration. In the second shooting rest arrangement, the first base portion is positioned to support a first section of the firearm and the second base portion is positioned to support a second section of the firearm.
US07774970B1 Method for indicating loaded firearm chamber
A pistol including a loaded chamber indicator to identify the presence of a cartridge loaded in the firing chamber. The pistol may generally include a barrel, a receiver attached to the barrel thereby defining a barrel-receiver assembly, and a chamber associated with the barrel-receiver assembly. An indicating element is provided which in one embodiment may be pivotally mounted in the barrel-receiver assembly. The indicating element is displaceable in response to contact by the cartridge from a first position which may in one embodiment correspond to an absence of a cartridge loaded in the chamber, to a second position which may in one embodiment correspond to a presence of a cartridge loaded in the chamber. A biasing member, such as a spring, may be provided to bias the indicating element towards the first position. In one embodiment, the indicating element protrudes outwards from the exterior of the pistol in response to contact by the cartridge rim to provide a visual and tactile indication of a loaded chamber condition to a user of the pistol.
US07774969B1 Carrier for securing a portable digital information device on an identification badge or identification badge holder or information article
An identification badge holder includes a portable digital information device, which may be a USB flash drive secured directly or indirectly to the rear face thereof by any of a number of structures which would facilitate ready access, secure attachment and, in some instances, redundant securement employing two types of securement. A system for attaching a stand-alone identification badge to a card which has a USB flash drive secured or securable thereto.
US07774966B2 Signage system for a cargo vehicle
A system for mounting signage onto the door area of a vehicle is disclosed. The system includes a mounting assembly, a display pan, and one or more inserts removably received within the display pan. The fastener assembly permits the selective reorientation of the display pan from a first position, in which the pan is oriented along the rear face of the cargo area, to a second position, in which the display pan is oriented away from the rear face of the cargo area. The inserts may include an indicia panel, a backing panel, an electroluminescent panel, and/or a support or cushioning panel. In operation, the system is mounted onto the rear facing surface of a cargo vehicle containing overhead or swing-open doors.
US07774965B2 Illuminated emergency sign
An illuminated emergency sign comprises a main body, a rotary body, side covers, a circuit board, a LED lamp indicator, an acrylic sign panel, and a canopy. The acrylic sign panel is connected to the lower end of the rotary body. In the rotary body is disposed a LED lamp panel. The LED lamp indicator is disposed on the LED lamp panel. The rotary body is rotatably connected to the lower end of the main body. In the main body is disposed a battery. The side covers are connected to both ends of each of the main body and the rotary body. The canopy is disposed on the top of the main body. The sign panel of such an illuminated emergency sign can be rotated within 180 degrees and fixed at a proper angle under action of the friction.
US07774962B1 Removable and reusable tags for identifying bottles, cans, and the like
A removable and reusable tag for identifying bottles, cans, and the like includes a ring portion having an outer circumferential surface and an intermediate circumferential surface. A tab portion extends radially between the intermediate circumferential surface and an inner circumferential surface and is circumferentially bounded by at least one recess provided therein. An identification portion is provided on the outer circumferential surface.
US07774961B2 Luggage identification apparatus and method
A removable luggage identification apparatus includes a substantially planar body, a plurality of fastener seats, each fastener seat being located near the perimeter of the body, and a plurality of mechanical fastener members, each fastener member being located and configured so that a retaining head of each fastener member is significantly laterally shielded by physical structures of the indicia body, thereby preventing the fastener members from being snagged by lateral contact with external objects. A corresponding method of identifying luggage is provided.
US07774957B2 Padded shoe
A padded shoe, comprising a flexible, resilient sole having a substantially smooth surface; a shoe upper, wherein at least a portion of the shoe upper has padding; an ankle padding structure extending from the shoe upper, adapted to cover the medial malleolus of a wearer; a padded tongue; a means to retain the shoe on the foot of a wearer; an outer protective flap, the outer protective flap being located such that the outer protective flap covers at least a portion of the retaining structure; and an engagement structure for securing the outer protective flap to the shoe upper, the engagement structure being located such that the outer protective flap substantially covers the engagement structure, whereby the wearer can strike a target with the shoe, and the target and the wearer are protected from injury caused by direct impact with the retaining structure, the engagement structure, or the wearer's ankle.
US07774954B2 Article of footwear with a perforated midsole
An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper and a sole structure secured to the upper. The sole structure includes a midsole element, an upper sheet, and a lower sheet. The midsole element has an upper surface and an opposite lower surface. In addition, the midsole element defines a plurality of bores extending from the upper surface to the lower surface. The upper sheet is secured to the upper surface and extends over at least a portion of the bores. The lower sheet is secured to the lower surface, and the lower sheet is positioned to correspond in location with the upper sheet and extend under the portion of the bores.
US07774953B1 Athlete hand drying system
Disclosed is a system to dry the hands of individuals. The system may include a pedestal, an air pedal and powder pedal hinged to the pedestal, a chamber having a dome connected to a shroud to define a chamber interior. The chamber interior may be divided into a first divided area, a second divided, and an overhead area that connects the first divided area to the second divided area. Each dived area may include a perforated tube to deliver pressurized air and powder into the chamber interior. An air compressor may be connected directly to the perforated tubes and connected to a powder chamber. In addition to pressurized air being delivered to the chamber interior, powder optionally may be delivered to the chamber interior.
US07774952B2 Measurement of micromovements
A micromovement measuring device has a first element such as a probe tip or flat plate coupled to a test body (107) the movement of which is to be measured. A second element (104) is located adjacent to the first element, to form a gap (108) therebetween. As the test body and the first element gradually move away from the measuring element, so increasing the size of the gap, the second element is repeatedly moved up, to restore the gap to its original size. These repeated small quantized movements of the measuring element (104) are counted, and are used to provide an indication of how far the test body (107) has moved. In other embodiments, the first element may gradually move toward the second element, with the latter repeatedly moving away.
US07774949B2 Coordinate measurement machine
A portable coordinate measurement machine having three articulating arm transfer members can provide accurate measurements. The transfer members can be single tube assemblies. The transfer members can each be rotatably joined by relatively short articulating joint assemblies allowing relative rotation of adjacent transfer members about two degrees of freedom. Encoders can be used to measure the relative rotation about each of the degrees of freedom, and signals from the encoders can be digitized by processor boards positioned within the transfer members. Processor boards can be placed in tandem in the transfer members, and one or more of the processor boards can be mounted on a rotatable assembly. Slip rings can electrically couple all of the processor boards to allow for infinite rotatability of the articulating arm.
US07774947B1 Mitre tool guide
A tool and method for making precision cuts with conventional saws and other woodworking machines. The shape of an inside or outside corner of a construction, such as a wall construction, is obtained with the tool, and the tool is used to as a guide to set the blade of the cutting apparatus to the proper cutting position. The tool may be used to indicate the mitre cuts for both inside and outside wall corners without having to measure the angle with a measuring tool and determine the precise degrees of the angles to be cut.
US07774945B2 Rotary angle detecting device
A rotary angle detecting device includes a synthetic-resin wheel member which is provided with a shaft hole, into which a steering shaft having a pair of flat surfaces provided in a front end portion thereof is inserted, and a detecting portion and which rotates together with the steering shaft; a sheet-metal attachment member attached to the wheel member and engaged to the steering shaft; a signal detecting unit operable to detect a position variation of the detecting portion accompanied by the rotation of the wheel member; and a housing provided with a through-hole into which the steering shaft is rotatably inserted and accommodating the wheel member and the signal detecting unit.
US07774940B2 Folding knife with puzzle piece locking mechanism
A locking mechanism for a folding knife or tool with a handle having a cavity defined within the handle; a knife or tool blade having a heel-butt end with a female puzzle cavity portion cut out of a rear side of the heel-butt end, and the heel-butt end being rotationally interconnected to the front end of the handle wherein the knife or tool blade travels between an extended position and a closed position within the handle cavity; and a matching male puzzle portion at an end of a tang portion configured for engaging snugly and interconnectively with the female puzzle cavity portion at the heel-butt of the blade.
US07774937B2 Heat exchanger with divided coolant chamber
A heat exchanger has a shell and tube stack disposed within a shell inner chamber. A coolant chamber extends from a shell end, accommodates a portion of the tube stack, and has a sidewall that extends outwardly from the tube stack. A divider is disposed within the coolant chamber between the sidewall and tube stack, and extends axially along the chamber to the end of the shell splitting the coolant chamber into inlet and outlet coolant passages. For example, a pair of dividers are disposed within the coolant chamber and are attached to a respective sidewall surfaces. A coolant inlet and outlet is in fluid flow communication with respective inlet and outlet coolant passages. A cooling medium within the heat exchanger flows longitudinally within the inlet coolant passage along the tube stack in a direction opposite from the coolant flow path within the outlet coolant passage.
US07774936B2 Catalytic converter and associated method of assembly
A catalytic converter comprises an outer tube, a pair of catalyzed substrates positioned in the outer tube, and a heat shield positioned in the outer tube between the catalyzed substrates. A method of assembling the catalytic converter is also disclosed.
US07774933B2 Method of manufacturing ultrasound catheters
An ultrasonic catheter is manufactured by providing an inner tube having an inner diameter sufficient to accommodate a guidewire, and mounting a tubular ultrasound radiating member around a distal region of the inner tube. Two electrical conductors are positioned along the inner tube, such that one of the electrical conductors contacts an inner side of the ultrasound radiating member while the other electrical conductor contacts an outer side of the ultrasound radiating member. An outer tube is then concentrically translated over the inner tube and the ultrasound radiating member, and radially shrunken onto the inner tube.
US07774926B2 Bearing assembling apparatus
A bearing assembling apparatus is capable of assembling a bearing at a high speed and preventing an excessive unbalanced load from being applied to an outer ring and an inserting means at a time of inserting a rolling element. The bearing assembling apparatus has a compact size, with an inserting means arranged within an outer ring, and a feeding means guiding a needle to the inserting means. The feeding means is provided with two guide paths which can hold needles in line. The inserting means includes a receiving portion receiving the needles, guide grooves directed toward an installation space in the outer ring, and a cam member having two cam surfaces. The cam surfaces press the needles in the receiving portion toward the installation space. The guide grooves and the cam surfaces are provided at positions such that the last two needles can be simultaneously inserted into the installation space.
US07774925B2 Method for in-situ foaming of metal foam in hollow structure
A method is provided for filling a hollow structure with metal foam. A mixture is made of a metal powder and a foaming agent. An electric resistance heating wire is provided and the mixture is consolidated into a solid preformed charge with the wire embedded in the charge and extending from the ends thereof. The preformed charge is placed into the hollow structure and electric current is applied to the resistance heating wire so that the metal powder is melted and the foaming agent foams the melted metal to fill the hollow structure.
US07774924B2 Method of winding a dynamo-electric machine component
Stator designs have wide-mouth slots between adjacent poles. Wire coils with high slot fill conductivity are formed around the poles. In some designs, the wire coils are wave wound around the poles. Thick bar conductors can be used for making the wire coils. The wire coils may be inserted using nozzle dispensers or transferred from a pre-form mandrel. In other designs, the wire coils are pre-formed on transferable pockets that are then mounted on the poles. Optional pole extensions or shoes can be attached to the stator poles after the wire coils are formed around the poles.
US07774923B2 Method of fabricating cartridge for miniature optical data storage disc
A method of fabricating a cartridge for an optical data storage disc includes attaching a plastic shell and a sheet metal cover plate. The shell includes lateral walls and a floor that together define a disc cavity and a plurality of assembly posts. The sheet metal cover plate includes a plurality of holes. To attach the cover plate to the shell, the assembly posts are inserted into the holes, and the ends of the assembly posts are heated to form mushroom caps which hold the cover plate against the shell. The optical disc is housed in the disc cavity, with the data side of the disc facing the cover plate. A sheet metal shutter is wrapped around an edge of the cartridge and over the shell and cover plate.
US07774915B2 Ductile iron pressure fit gasket
A sealing gasket is shown for use in a ductile iron piping system to form a sealed joint between mating male and female pipe ends. A sealing gasket body is provided with a series of retainer inserts which extend outwardly from a leading nose region of the elastomeric gasket body. The mating male pipe end contacts the retainer inserts prior to contacting the remainder of the gasket body during the make up of the pipe joint. The inserts help to retain the gasket within its associated groove during high pressure field conditions. The inserts are spaced circumferentially about the gasket nose region, allowing the gasket the necessary flexibility to allow insertion within the groove provided in the female, belled pipe end.
US07774914B2 Method for stabilizing a compression head
A stabilizer kit for a compression head of a concrete block machine is provided, the kit including a stabilizer plate, a fiber disc, a stud, a pair of spacer plates and a set of bolts for attaching the stabilizer plate and a pair of spacer plates to and between an upper portion and a lower portion of a frame of the block machine.
US07774912B2 Continuously formed metal matrix composite shapes
Metal matrix composites having open or closed channels extending longitudinal through the length of the composite as well as methods and apparatus for forming the same are described. The shaped metal matrix composites are made of continuous fiber reinforced metal matrix composite materials. They have an integrally formed, non-cast, metal matrix composite body portion where the walls have a substantially uniform distribution of continuous fibers in a matrix metal throughout the volume of the walls and have at least one channel extending through the body of the shaped metal matrix composite.
US07774909B2 System for removing heat transfer fins from boiler tubes
A system is disclosed to use a rotary milling head to break or cut the bond of a heat transfer fin base to a boiler tube, thereby removing the heat transfer fins from the boiler tube to facilitate the more efficient repair of the boiler tube.
US07774907B2 Casket made of mechanical pulp board or of a similar material with a side entrance
A folding casket is cut from a sheet of a rigid material, such as cardboard or wood. The bottom, the top, and at least two of the four sides of the casket are produced as a single uninterrupted blank.
US07774903B2 Roller gin apparatus, method and system
A high speed roller gin for seed cotton with variable length fibers has its components defined in accordance with the formula RKBS<(2SR-2MD)*RKSS/GRSS where, the rotary knife circumferential blade (RKBS) spacing is less than 2-times the seed release distance from the tip of the stationary knife (SR) minus 2-times the minimum distance the seed surfaces are allowed to approach the tip of the stationary knife (MD) multiplied by the rotary knife surface speed (RKSS) and divided by the ginning roller surface speed (GRSS). A seed cotton infeed slide further limits the exposure of the seed directly against the tip of the stationary knife to reduce the ginning of the undesirable short fibers. A process for using such gins is also disclosed.
US07774900B2 Hinge for a motor vehicle
A hinge for use in a motor vehicle, including first and second members pivotably coupled to each other. First and second position retainers are coupled between the first member and the second member to releasably secure the second member in a first holding position relative to the first member. The first position retainer has a first holding portion and the second position retainer has a second holding portion such that one of the first and second position retainers is structured and arranged to move relative to the other of the first and second position retainers such that the first and second holding portions move into and out from a first holding position. The first and second holding portions are structured and arranged to be releasably secured to each other in the first holding position.
US07774899B2 Non-handed door closer cover attachment method
A cover for either a left-handed or right-handed operating automatic door closer including a body, and a pinion shaft extending from the top of the body, the cover comprising: a housing including a wall and an open rear, the wall having a rear edge and having therein first and second slots, each of the slots extending forward from the rear edge; and a clip including a base complementary to each of the first and second slots, and a flexible hook including a first end connected to the base and a floating second end, the base of the clip being insertable into either one of the slots so that the base substantially fills the one of the slots and the clip is secured to the wall of the housing with the hook positioned inside the housing and opening rearwardly; the housing with the clip inserted into one of the slots being positionable over the door closer with the hook of the clip receiving the door closer; wherein, when the housing is positioned over the door closer, the pinion shaft extends through the first slot and the clip is inserted in the second slot when the door closer is configured for left-handed operation, and the pinion shaft extends through the second slot and the clip is inserted in the first slot when the door closer is configured for right-handed operation.
US07774898B2 Vacuum cleaner and method for reducing noise generated thereby
A vacuum cleaner has a discharge flow path and a discharged-air filter optimally positioned to reduce noise. The vacuum cleaner includes a body, a dust collection unit positioned in the body to filter foreign matter, a blower fan unit including a blower fan and a motor to generate suction force, an air vent through which air drawn into the body is discharged, and a discharge flow path to guide the air discharged through a discharge port of the blower fan unit to the air vent. The discharge flow path comprises a space defined between the dust collection unit and the blower fan unit.
US07774896B2 Backpack suction/blower apparatus
A backpack suction/blower apparatus has a blower unit (1) which includes a drive motor (2), a blower (3), which is driven by the drive motor (2), and a blower tube (4) extending from the blower (3). A back carrier frame (5) is provided on which the blower unit (1) is attached at a spacing while forming an intake gap (6). The intake gap (6) is filled with a foam attenuating element (8) in the lateral direction (7) referred to the usual working position.
US07774894B2 Micro powered floor cleaning device
A floor-cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning head having a cleaning device, a control handle connected to the cleaning head for controlling the cleaning head and a micro power source in communication with the cleaning device. The micro power source is lightweight, compact, and rechargeable or replaceable for generating energy to power the cleaning device.
US07774893B2 Painting accessory
A painting device directed to an open-ended tray that can receive a brush or roller in either one of two possible orientations. The tray may be maintained in either a generally vertical alignment or a generally horizontal alignment. Also holding means extend from the tray whereby a paint applicator can be temporarily attached to the paint tray when not in use.
US07774892B2 Wiper coupler and wiper assembly incorporating same
The present invention relates to a wiper coupler and wiper assembly that includes a wiping element and a tournament-style superstructure to support the wiping element. The wiper assembly further includes a wiper coupler that releasably attaches the superstructure to a wiper arm attachment member. The wiper coupler includes a pair of sidewalls each having a flange to engage a portion of the guides of the attachment member and further includes an elevated platform and a deck each disposed between the sidewalls. The deck and a portion of the sidewalls define a rest to receive the track of the attachment member. The wiper coupler further includes an aperture between the elevated platform and the deck. The aperture receives a portion of the bent tab of the attachment member to facilitate attachment between the superstructure and the attachment member conventionally employed for use with a beam blade-style wiper assembly.
US07774890B1 Drain insert for scrubbing and scraping utensils
A sink drain insert for use with a sink equipped with a powered garbage disposal unit. The insert comprises a cylindrical base having debris dislodging means which may be one of brushes, a scraper or some combination thereof, wherein food debris that are adhered to utensils may be scrubbed or scraped to dislodged the debris, allowing the debris to fall into the garbage disposal. The outer wall of the sink drain insert further comprises a circular sealing member for affixing and restraining the insert into the sink drain at the user's discretion.
US07774889B2 Mop head connector
A connection system for securing a mop head to a mop handle. The system uses a handle connector component secured to the mop handle and a mop head connector component secured to the mop head. Through holes in the handle connector component are aligned with through holes in the mop head connector component. A resilient clip with protruding tabs is positioned in and around the mop head connector component, such that the tabs of the resilient clips extend through the aligned holes in the connector components. The resiliency of the clips compels the tabs into the holes, thus securing the components.
US07774888B2 Child's music-playing toothbrush configured for attractive display of graphics and improved sound quality
A music-playing toothbrush having a hollow handle housing containing suitable solid state electronic components for selectively playing a musical tune with improved sound quality. The sound quality is expressly addressed in the handle design with an interior sealed speaker enclosure configured to direct the sound toward the listener with little internal leakage and with an undulating violin-like cavity shape that suppresses internal standing waves. Moreover, the handle provides a relatively large, relatively flat, substantially uninterrupted surface for receiving attractive and motivational graphics such as licensed cartoon characters, which may be compatible with the musical selection.
US07774887B2 Scrubber box and methods for using the same
A scrubber box is provided that includes a tank adapted to receive a substrate for cleaning, supports outside of the tank and adapted to couple to ends of scrubber brushes disposed within the tank, a motor mounted to each of the supports and adapted to rotate the scrubber brushes, a base to which the supports are pivotally mounted via spherical bearings adapted to permit toe-in of the scrubber brushes, a brush gap actuator adapted, via a crank and rocker mechanism, to substantially simultaneously pivot the supports toward or away from each other so as to permit the scrubber brushes to substantially simultaneously achieve or break contact with the substrate, and a toe-in actuator adapted to move two of the spherical bearings toward or away from each other so as to adjust a toe-in angle between the scrubber brushes.
US07774886B2 Method and device for cleaning teeth
The invention is directed to a method and a device for cleaning teeth wherein a variety of cleaning tools are coupled to a common handle section for the individual cleaning of teeth. It relates in particular to a handle section of an electric-dental cleaning device, with a coupling section for coupling various cleaning tools thereto, as well as said cleaning tools. According to the invention the handle section detects a coding provided on the respective cleaning tool attached. In dependence upon the respective coding detected, various functions of the dental cleaning device are controlled.
US07774885B2 Brush head for a toothbrush
A toothbrush head has several bristle support segments movable relative to each other, and driving elements that change the position of the bristle support segments relative to each other. The driving elements have a cam control surface that causes the individual bristle support segments to execute an additional movement superposed upon the movement of the bristle support.
US07774884B2 Article of footwear having an upper with a matrix layer
An article of footwear is disclosed that includes an upper and a sole structure. The upper includes a matrix structure that defines a plurality of apertures. The apertures may have an elongate configuration to impart differences in the extensibility of the upper in different directions. For example, the matrix layer may be formed from a plurality of segments that cross each other to define the apertures. A method of manufacturing the article of footwear is also disclosed.
US07774883B2 Orthopedic insoles for protecting the metatarsal heads of the forefoot
A specially designed insert for orthopedic insoles and a process for manufacturing said insole, the use of which prevents the foot from bending excessively at the metatarsal joints, thereby protecting the skin in the area of the metatarsal heads of the forefoot on the bottom of the foot and preventing that skin from stretching, cracking or being otherwise damaged.
US07774880B1 Stadium seat cushion
A seat cushion for an individual stadium seat includes a cushion portion and a pouch on one side of the cushion portion. The pouch receives an end of the seat to secure the cushion to the seat with the cushion portion on the seat. The seat cushion also includes an adjustable length strap that can also secure the cushion to a stadium bench seat or can maintain the cushion in a rolled-up condition for easy carrying or storage.
US07774877B2 Evacuation mattress
An evacuation mattress comprises an integral mattress including a mattress interior, a mattress top face sheet, four mattress side face sheets, and a bottom sheet. The bottom sheet forms both the mattress bottom face sheet and an evacuation bottom sheet. The integral evacuation mattress also includes a top evacuation sheet configured to be deployed over a patient who is disposed above the mattress top face sheet. The integral evacuation mattress further includes securing structure configured to secure the top evacuation sheet to the patient and the integral mattress. Transport structure is also included in the integral evacuation mattress and is configured for a person to drag the secured patient and integral mattress from a hospital.
US07774876B2 Tilting bed
A bed includes a deck assembly that is supported by a base assembly. The base assembly includes a tilting actuator assembly. The base assembly is coupled to the deck assembly so that the deck assembly can be tilted from a prone position to an upright position. The base assembly and the deck assembly are coupled so that there are no easily accessible pinch points therebetween.
US07774871B1 Personal hygiene cleansing and irrigation device
A personal hygiene cleansing device is disclosed which attaches to the wall of a shower or bath stall and to the water supply at a shower head in the stall. The device is adjustable to meet the height and other personal requirements of the user. Two generally vertically oriented, rubber coated bars are adjusted to a proper height and spacing for a user. When the height and the spacing between the two vertical bars is correct, pushing a users' buttocks against the vertical bars causes the cheeks of the buttocks to be spread exposing the area to a vertical fan shape water spray from a spray head that is part of the device. The rubber piping on the generally vertical bars prevent the bars from slipping along the skin of the buttocks to maintain maximum spreading of the cheeks of the buttocks. Spray water with or without soap exits the elongated spray head to cleanse or rinse the rectal or genital area.
US07774867B2 Airbag jacket for a vehicle rider
An airbag jacket, to be fitted in a rider jacket, includes an airbag body configured to fill with gas from an inflator operatively connected with the airbag body. The airbag body includes a flat front piece, a flat back piece substantially identical to the flat front piece; the flat front and back pieces having an opening formed therein for permitting an user of the airbag jacket to pass his or her head therethrough. The flat front and back pieces are joined together along a peripheral boundary thereof and along a peripheral boundary of the opening by sewing or bonding so as provide a plurality of continuously formed body covering portions including at least a back covering portion, a shoulder covering portion and a front covering portion.
US07774860B2 Protective glove with independent pads
A protective glove having an elastic substrate, a first pad segment attached to the elastic substrate, and a second pad segment attached to the elastic substrate independently from the first pad segment. The elastic substrate can be disposed over an area intended to substantially cover a forearm, a wrist, a back of a hand, a finger, and/or a thumb of a user wearing the glove. The elastic substrate can be stretchable in different directions and to different degrees in the areas around each pad segment, thereby enabling independent movement of the individually attached pad segments to accommodate any number of contours and flex points. Other embodiments provide methods for manufacturing a protective glove having independent pads.
US07774858B2 Protective face mask
A protective face mask comprising: an eye-protecting shield made essentially from a plastics material, the eye-protecting shield being dimensioned to cover at least the eye portions of a human wearer, the eye-protecting shield having a perimeter defining a first surface facing the wearer's face, and a second surface facing away from the wearer's face; an adhesive forming an adhesive strip attached to the first surface of the eye-protecting shield for providing a substantially watertight and releasable sealing engagement between at least a portion of the perimeter forming an upper edge of the face mask and at least a portion of the skin of the wearer's face, wherein the upper part of the perimeter of the mask is provided with a continuous layer of adhesive along the perimeter, and the lower part of the perimeter of the mask is free of adhesive, the lower part of the perimeter forms a bottom edge of the mask being provided with at least one part forming a projection offset from the centre line of the mask, and wherein the mask extends along the contour of the wearer's face from the forehead to cheekbones and the lower perimeter thereof extends above the mouth provides a comfortable and flexible mask without the need for straps, elastic bands or side bars, avoids pressure on the skin in the contact zone, allows free eye movement and airflow and minimizes the formation of dew.
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.