Document Document Title
US07829143B1 Solvent vapor annealing of organic films
Organic films can be annealed by exposure to a solvent vapor. The solvent vapor annealing renders the organic film insoluble even in a solvent of a solution from which it was deposited. This enables deposition of two or more organic films in sequence without having one deposition alter an underlying organic film. Devices can be easily fabricated with organic films annealed in this manner when no other solution processing method is possible.
US07829142B2 Method for aluminizing serpentine cooling passages of jet engine blades
Disclosed herein is a method for aluminiding an internal passage of a metal substrate comprising injecting a slurry composition that comprises a powder comprising aluminum, a binder selected from the group consisting of colloidal silica, an organic resin, and a combination thereof, into the internal passage; applying compressed air to the internal passage to facilitate distribution of the slurry composition throughout the internal passage; and, heat treating the slurry composition under conditions sufficient to remove volatile components from the composition, and to cause diffusion of aluminum into a surface of the internal passage.
US07829138B2 Metal material for parts of casting machine, molten aluminum alloy-contact member and method for producing them
A Ni alloy layer is formed on a surface of a steel base on the side to be in direct contact with a molten aluminum alloy, and titanium carbide (TiC) is bonded in a particulate state to the surface of the Ni alloy layer. This makes it possible to provide a metal material having materially enhanced melting loss resistance without resorting to conventional techniques, such as the provision of a ceramic coating by PVD or CVD.
US07829136B2 Production method of cell electrodes
The invention relates to fuel cells and methods of making bipolar fuel cell electrodes. The invention provides a method of producing bipolar fuel cell electrodes, including providing a collector having a first side and a second side opposite the first side, coating the first side with a first active material, coating the second side with a second active material, and compressing the coated collector to form a bipolar cell electrode. The invention also provides a method of producing bipolar fuel cell electrodes wherein the first side of the collector is first coated with the first active material and compressed at a first pressure, and subsequently the second side of the collector is coated with the second active material and compressed at a second pressure. The invention further provides an improved bipolar electrode for fuel cells.
US07829131B2 Package for molded food product and method
A solid food product is molded in a mold cavity and is thereafter packaged in the mold cavity. The mold cavity is formed in a sheet and includes a side wall which extends from the sheet and a bottom wall which includes an inverting portion which extends from said side wall and a central portion. The central potion of the bottom wall includes a plurality of ridges which form a decorative design. A liquid food product is introduced into the mold cavity and allowed to solidify to form a molded solid food product. The central portion of the bottom wall is thereafter pushed into the mold cavity to invert said inverting potion and to push the molded food product away from the central portion of the bottom wall. The molded food product includes ridges which correspond to the ridges in the bottom wall of the mold cavity. A lid is attached to the sheet to enclose and package the molded food product within the mold cavity.
US07829129B2 Method to reduce corrosion during fermentation of microalgae
Methods for production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine microorganisms, including the heterotrophic marine dinoflagellate Crypthecodinium, using low levels of chloride ion are disclosed. Specifically, methods of increasing production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine microorganisms while growing in low chloride media by manipulating sodium ion and potassium ion levels. The invention also relates to methods of production of highly unsaturated fatty acids by marine organisms at low pH levels, and includes methods for generation of low pH tolerant strains.
US07829128B2 Production of whole grain-containing composite food products
Shelf-stable whole grain-containing composite food products, such as savory and sweet snacks and cereals, are continuously produced by preparing a dough comprising cooking whole grain cereal grain particles in the presence of water effective to gelatinize starch content of the whole grain cereal particles to provide gelatinized whole grain cereal grain particles, and mixing the gelatinized whole grain cereal grain particles with starch, whole grain flour, optional minor dough ingredients such as leavening agent, and a food component selected from the group consisting of vegetables and fruits, effective to prepare dough. The dough is formed into discrete dough units, which are baked or fried to provide a whole-grain containing composite food product that is nutritious, low fat, multi-flavored, and a good source of dietary fiber.
US07829127B2 Fortification of syrup with calcium and other minerals and vitamins
A calcium fortified syrup is disclosed which provides between 10-70% of the US RDI of calcium per 2 tablespoonfuls. The calcium remains uniformly dispersed and the product has no harsh off-notes or bitter after taste.
US07829115B2 Pharmaceutical composition based on micronized progesterone, preparation method and uses thereof
The present invention relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising micronized progesterone, soya bean lecithin, and at least one oil selected from the group consisting of sunflower oil, olive oil, sesame seed oil, colza oil, almond oil, to the method for the preparation thereof and to the uses thereof for treating a physiological condition linked to insufficiency of progesterone secretion.
US07829114B2 Capsules containing aqueous fill compositions stabilized with derivatized cyclodextrin
A capsule containing an aqueous fill composition that comprises water, a derivatized cyclodextrin, such as sulfoalkyl ether cyclodextrin (SAE-CD) or hydroxypropyl cyclodextrin (HPCD), optionally one or more active agents and optionally one or more excipients is stabilized from degradation, erosion, swelling or dissolution of its shell during storage. The derivatized cyclodextrin is present in an amount sufficient to reduce, eliminate or inhibit degradation, erosion, swelling and/or dissolution of the shell by water present in the fill composition. Alternatively, the derivatized cyclodextrin and another shell-stabilizing material together stabilize the shell from degradation, erosion, swelling and/or dissolution by water present in the fill composition. The derivatized cyclodextrin can reduce the water activity of the fill composition.
US07829112B2 Methods and devices for the sustained release of multiple drugs
The invention relates to an drug delivery device and a method for delivering multiple drugs over a prolonged period of time. The drug delivery device has two or more unitary segments comprising a drug-permeable polymeric substance, wherein at least one of the segments further comprises a pharmaceutically active agent. The invention also relates to a method for the treatment of a benign ovarian secretory disorder in a female mammal, a method of contraception, and a method of relieving the symptoms associated with menopausal, perimenopausal and post-menopausal periods in a woman.
US07829111B2 Liquid and low melting coating for stents
Stents with coatings comprising a combination of a restenosis inhibitor comprising an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor and a carrier. Also provided are methods of coating stents with a combination of an HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor and a carrier. A preferred example of a restenosis inhibitor is cerivastatin. The stent coatings have been shown to release restenosis inhibitors in their active forms.
US07829110B2 Surgical implant comprising an anabolic and a corticosteroid
A surgical implant with a basic structure, preferably configured as an implant mesh, contains an anabolic steroid and a corticosteroid. The implant is preferably designed to release these active substances after implantation. It becomes incorporated rapidly and effectively, without any undesired scar contraction occurring.
US07829109B2 Catheter injectable depot compositions and uses thereof
Catheter injectable depot compositions are provided that include a bioerodible, biocompatible polymer, a solvent having miscibility in water of less than or equal to 7 wt. % at 25° C., in an amount effective to plasticize the polymer and form a gel therewith, a thixotropic agent, and a beneficial agent. The solvent comprises an aromatic alcohol, an ester of an aromatic acid, an aromatic ketone, or mixtures thereof. The compositions have substantially improved shear thinning behavior and reduced injection force, rendering the compositions readily implanted beneath a patient's body surface by injection.
US07829103B2 Methylated heparin-binding hemagglutinin recombinant mycobacterial antigen, preparation method and immunogenic compositions comprising same
The invention concerns a methylated immunogenic recombinant peptide sequence comprising mycobacterial heparin-binding hemagglutinin. The invention also concerns chemical and enzymatic methods for preparing such a sequence, the sequence being previously produced in a non-methylated recombinant form then methylated by post-translational modification. The invention further concerns recombinant tools, vectors and host cells for implementing post-translational enzymatic methylation of the recombinant HBHA. The invention finally concerns immunogenic compositions comprising methylated, native or recombinant HBHA, such compositions being useful for preparing vaccines against mycobacterial infections.
US07829099B2 Self-adhesive polymer matrix containing sea algae extract and glycerin
A self-adhesive polymer matrix which comprises a polymer that forms a gel in water, water, a sea algae extract, and a monohydric or polyhydric alcohol.
US07829097B2 Use of HMGB1 for protection against ischemia reperfusion injury
Methods and compositions are disclosed for protecting an organ or tissue from inflammation and organ injury following ischemia, reperfusion, and trauma through the administration of an HMGB1 protein within a time period sufficient to protect the organ or tissue from injury.
US07829095B2 Inhibitory monoclonal antibody against blood clotting factor VII-activating protease
A monoclonal antibody which inhibits the blood clotting factor VII-activating protease and its proenzyme and a blood clotting factor VII-activating protease, stabilized by the addition of said monoclonal antibody, and its proenzyme are described. A suitable monoclonal antibody is produced by hybridoma cell line DSM ACC 2533. The application of the inhibitory, monoclonal antibody in the stabilization of blood clotting preparations and in preparations for reducing the coagulability of the blood is disclosed.
US07829091B2 Therapy targeting FLT4 (VEGER-3) expressed in blood vessels
The present invention provide purified Flt4 receptor tyrosine kinase polypeptides and fragments thereof, polynucleotides encoding such polypeptides, antibodies that specifically bind such polypeptides, and uses therefor.
US07829089B2 Antibody to mammalian cytokine-like polypeptide-10
A mammalian cytokine-like polypeptide, called Mammalian Cytokine-like polypeptide-10, (Zcyto10), polynucleotides encoding the same, antibodies which specifically bind to the polypeptide, and anti-idiotypic antibodies which bind to the antibodies. Zcyto10 is useful for promoting the healing of wounds and for stimulating the proliferation of platelets.
US07829086B2 Humanized anti-CD22 antibodies and their use in treatment of oncology, transplantation and autoimmune disease
The present invention provides chimeric and humanized versions of anti-CD22 mouse monoclonal antibody, HB22.7. The anti-CD22 antibodies of the invention comprise four human or humanized framework regions of the immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region (“VH”) and four human or humanized framework regions of the immunoglobulin light chain variable region (“VK”). The invention further comprises heavy and/or light chain FW regions that contain one or more backmutations in which a human FW residue is exchanged for the corresponding residue present in the parental mouse heavy or light chain. Human or humanized VH framework regions of antibodies of the invention may comprise one or more of the following residues: a valine (V) at position 24 of framework region 1, a glycine (G) at position 49 of framework region 2, and an asparagine (N) at position 73 of framework region 3, numbered according to Kabat. The invention further relates to pharmaceutical compositions, immunotherapeutic compositions, and methods using therapeutic antibodies that bind to the human CD22 antigen and that preferably mediate human ADCC, CDC, and/or apoptosis for: the treatment of B cell diseases and disorders in human subjects, such as, but not limited to, B cell malignancies, for the treatment and prevention of autoimmune disease, and for the treatment and prevention of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD), humoral rejection, and post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder in human transplant recipients.
US07829084B2 Binding constructs and methods for use thereof
The invention relates to novel binding domain-immunoglobulin fusion proteins that feature a binding domain for a cognate structure such as an antigen, a counterreceptor or the like, a wild-type IgG1, IGA or IgE hinge-acting region, i.e., IgE CH2, region polypeptide or a mutant IgG1 hinge region polypeptide having either zero, one or two cysteine residues, and immunoglobulin CH2 and CH3 domains, and that are capable of ADCC and/or CDC while occurring predominantly as polypeptides that are compromised in their ability to form disulfide-linked multimers. The fusion proteins can be recombinantly produced at high expression levels. Also provided are related compositions and methods, including cell surface forms of the fusion proteins and immunotherapeutic applications of the fusion proteins and of polynucleotides encoding such fusion proteins.
US07829079B2 Lactobacillus iners for the enhancement of urogenital health
The present invention provides methods and compositions for administration of Lactobacillus iners alone or together with at least one other probiotic organism such as Bifordobacterium, or another Lactobacillus for reduction of the risk of urogenital infection and concomitant restoration and/or maintenance of a healthy urogenital flora. A method of treatment of vaginal infections is also contemplated.
US07829077B2 Treatment of hepatitis C with compositions comprising oncostatin M and interferon alpha
The invention relates to the use of at least one cytokine from the IL-6 family -gp130, preferably selected from among IL-11, the leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF), oncostatin M (OSM), cardiotrophin-1, ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), the cardiotrophin-like cytokine (CLC) and combinations thereof or a DNA sequence encoding same, in the preparation of a pharmaceutical composition which is intended for combined administration with at least one IFN-α or a DNA sequence encoding same, for use in the treatment of viral diseases. The invention also relates to a pharmaceutical composition comprising a pharmaceutically-acceptable quantity of at least one cytokin from the IL-6 family −gp130 or a DNA sequence encoding same and a pharmaceutically-acceptable quantity of at least one IFN-α or a DNA sequence encoding same, a pharmaceutical kit and a method for the treatment of viral diseases with the combined administration of the aforementioned cytokines and IFN-α.
US07829074B2 Hydroxypatite-targeting poly(ethylene glycol) and related polymers
Isolatable, hydroxyapatite-targeting polymeric structures, and biologically active conjugates thereof, are provided. The polymeric structure includes a linear or branched water-soluble and non-peptidic polymer backbone, such as a PEG backbone, having at least two termini, a first terminus being covalently bonded to a hydroxyapatite-targeting moiety, such as a bisphosphonate, and a second terminus covalently bonded to a chemically reactive group, wherein said chemically reactive group is protected or unprotected. Methods of preparing and using hydroxyapatite-targeting polymeric structures, and biologically active conjugates thereof, are also provided.
US07829071B2 Personal care fixative
The present invention is directed to bimodal polymer compositions and personal care fixatives containing bimodal polymer compositions. The present invention includes a bimodal polymer composition having a first polymer with anionic character and a second polymer with cationic character and wherein the polymers form an interpenetrating polymer network. In one embodiment, the present invention also includes personal care fixatives (e.g., health care, hygiene or cosmetic compositions) containing the bimodal polymer composition. The present invention also includes methods for forming bimodal polymer compositions.
US07829068B2 Cosmetic bronzing agent based on dihydroxyacetone
A novel cosmetic bronzing agent based on dihydroxyacetone. the bronzing agent contains 0.1-4.5 wt. % dihydroxyacetone (DHA) mounted in a lamellar structure, 0.15-3.5 wt. % free dihydroxyacetone, whereby the ratio between mounted lamellar DHA and free DHA is located in the region of 1:1.5 -1:0.25 and the total amount of DHA is equal to or less than 5 wt, %, also containing 0.01-10 wt % phospholipids and up to 100 wt % cosmetic auxiliary agents, carrier substances, additional active ingredients and mixtures thereof. The bronzing agent has a particularly durable, even and intensive synergistic action.
US07829065B2 CA IX-specific inhibitors
Therapeutic methods for inhibiting the growth of preneoplastic/neoplastic vertebrate cells that abnormally express MN protein are disclosed. Screening assays are provided for identifying compounds, preferably membrane-impermeant compounds, which inhibit the enzymatic activity of MN protein/polypeptides and that are useful for treating patients with preneoplastic/neoplastic disease. Further methods are disclosed for the preparation of positively-charged, membrane-impermeant heterocyclic sulfonamide CA inhibitors with high affinity for the membrane-bound carbonic anhydrase CA IX. Preferred CA IX-specific inhibitors are aromatic and heterocylic sulfonamides, preferably that are membrane-impermeant. Particularly preferred CA IX-specific inhibitors are pyridinium derivatives of such aromatic and heterocyclic sulfonamides. The CA IX-specific inhibitors of the invention can also be used diagnostically/prognostically for preneoplastic/neoplastic disease, and for imaging use, for example, to detect precancerous cells, tumors and/or metastases. The CA IX-specific inhibitors can be labelled or conjugated to radioisotopes for radiotherapy. The CA IX-specific inhibitors may be combined with conventional therapeutic anti-cancer drugs, with other different inhibitors of cancer-related pathways, with bioreductive drugs, or with radiotherapy to enhance the efficiency of each treatment. The CA IX-specific inhibitors may also be combined with CA IX-specific antibodies, preferably monoclonal antibodies or biologically active antibody fragments, more preferably humanized or fully human CA IX monoclonal antibodies or biologically active fragments or such monoclonal antibodies. Still further, the CA IX-specific inhibitors can be used for gene therapy coupled to vectors for targeted delivery to preneoplastic/neoplastic cells expressing CA IX on their surfaces.
US07829061B2 Zirconium oxide hydrate particles and method for producing the same
The zirconium oxide hydrate particles of the present invention are represented by the formula ZrO2.nH2O and have a mean primary particle size of 0.5 nm or more and 5 nm or less, and “n” in the formula represents a number greater than 2.5. Moreover, the method for producing of zirconium oxide hydrate particles of the present invention includes the step of preparing zirconium oxide hydrate particles by adding an aqueous zirconium salt solution to an aqueous alkaline solution while controlling the pH to 7.0 or more and 13.0 or less, and the step of subjecting the zirconium oxide hydrate particles to a hydrothermal treatment in the presence of water at a temperature of 50° C. or more and less than 110° C. for 3 hours or more.
US07829059B2 Rapid synthesis of ternary, binary and multinary chalcogenide nanoparticles
A method for synthesizing a chalcogenide nanoparticle is provided. The method comprises reacting a metal component with an elemental chalcogen precursor in the presence of an organic solvent. The chalcogenide nanoparticles include ternary, binary and/or multinary chalcogenide nanoparticles and the metal component comprises metal halides or elemental metal precursors. The alkylamine solvent has a normal boiling temperature of above about 220° C. and an average particle size of from about 5 nm to about 1000 nm.
US07829058B2 Process for the purification of (hydro) halocarbons
A process for treating a composition comprising one or more desired (hydro)halocarbons and one or more undesired sulphur containing impurities so as to reduce the concentration of at least one undesired sulphur containing impurity, the process comprising contacting the composition with an adsorbent comprising an acid stable molecular sieve having a pore size of from 2 to 10 Å and/or an activated carbon.
US07829053B2 Non-cementitious compositions comprising CO2 sequestering additives
Non-cementitious CO2 sequestering compositions are provided. The compositions of the invention include a CO2 sequestering additive, e.g., a CO2 sequestering carbonate composition. Additional aspects of the invention include methods of making and using the non-cementitious CO2 sequestering compositions.
US07829050B2 Methods of forming single-crystal metal-silicide nanowires and resulting nanowire structures
Various embodiments of the present invention are directed to methods of forming single-crystal metal-silicide nanowires and resulting nanowire structures. In one embodiment of the present invention, a method of fabricating nanowires is disclosed. In the method, a number of nanowire-precursor members are formed. Each of the nanowire-precursor members includes a substantially single-crystal silicon region and a polycrystalline-metallic region. The substantially single-crystal silicon region and the polycrystalline-metallic region of each of the nanowire-precursor members is reacted to form corresponding substantially single-crystal metal-silicide nanowires. In another embodiment of the present invention, a nanowire structure is disclosed. The nanowire structure includes a substrate having an electrically insulating layer. A number of substantially single-crystal metal-silicide nanowires are positioned on the electrically insulating layer.
US07829046B2 Scrubber for reactive gases
Scrubber media for reactive gases, that can include but are not necessarily limited to hydrogen chloride (HCl), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), hydrogen fluoride (HF), and ammonia (NH3), can include reactive particles, potentially as small as nano-scale, that can optionally be suspended on macro-scale carrier particles. Reactive gases can be converted to non-volatile compounds by being passed through a bed of such scrubber media. Such scrubber media can be used to remove reactive gases from gas mixtures. Potential applications include differential absorption spectroscopy, air pollutant emission controls, and the like. Methods of preparing scrubber media are also described.
US07829042B2 Personal sanitation device
A personal sanitation device comprises a container, a substrate disposed within the container and a disinfecting agent carried by the substrate. The personal sanitation device is utilized by the user, for example, by inserting a portion of their body into the container to contact the substrate. The disinfecting agent is transferred from the substrate to the inserted body portion to sanitize that portion of the user. Objects may also be placed within the container to come in contact with the substrate so as to have the disinfecting agent transferred to said objects, thereby disinfecting them.
US07829039B2 Mixer system, reactor and reactor system
A mixer system for mixing at least two fluids includes a plurality of micromixers that are fluidically connected in parallel. The micromixers are integrated into a guide matrix and are fluidically connected via feed lines for the fluids to be mixed.
US07829034B2 Catalytic air purification system
The instant invention provides for a gas purification system in which a reaction chamber combines with catalysts and heating to oxidize and reduce the compounds contained in a gas stream to oxygen and other non-deleterious components. By use of this system closed loop air systems can be effectively supplied with oxygen by chemically converting the volatile organic components to desired gasses and thereby remove unwanted contaminants.
US07829030B2 Fluidizing a population of catalyst particles having a low catalyst fines content
The present invention relates to processes for fluidizing a population of catalyst particles that are depleted of catalyst fines. In one embodiment, the process includes providing a plurality of catalyst particles in the reactor, wherein the catalyst particles have a d2 value of greater than about 40 microns. The catalyst particles are contacted with a fluidizing medium under conditions effective to cause the catalyst particles to behave in a fluidized manner and form a fluidized bed. The particles are contacted with one or more primary obstructing members while in the fluidized bed. By fluidizing the catalyst particles in this manner, the catalyst particles can be maintained at an axial gas Peclet number of from about 10 to about 20.
US07829026B2 Magnetic separation device
A magnetic separation device, comprising: at least a test tube base, for receiving at least a test tube; and a magnetic member, pivotally connected to the at least one test tube base and capable of generating a magnetic force. With the aforesaid device, the test tube being received in the test tube base can be moved toward/away from the magnetic member while the magnetic member and the test tube base are driven to rotate about a pivotal end connecting the two, and thereby, the strength of the magnetic force applied on a mixture containing in the test tube by the magnetic member is varied accordingly.
US07829021B2 Cell block processing station
A system for making cell blocks includes a cell block cassette and processing station, the cassette including a main body having a having a collection aperture formed therein and a filter assembly removably attached to the main body, the filter assembly defining a collection well in communication with the collection aperture, and having a filter positioned across a bottom surface of the collection well, the filter configured to retain cellular matter carried in a fluid that is dispensed into the collection well and flows across the filter. The cell block processor has a cassette interface removably seating the cell block cassette, and a sensor positioned or positionable to detect and monitor a fluid level in the collection well. The processing station includes an automated fluid delivery system operable to dispense a fluid into the collection well, and a controller operatively coupled to the fluid delivery system, wherein the controller causes the fluid delivery system to selectively dispense fluids into the collection well based at least in part on a flow rate across the filter determined at least in part based on changes in the monitored fluid level in the collection well.
US07829018B2 Active air removal from an extracorporeal blood circuit
A disposable, integrated extracorporeal blood circuit employed during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery performs gas exchange, heat transfer, and microemboli filtering functions in a way as to conserve volume, to reduce setup and change out times, to eliminate a venous blood reservoir, and to substantially reduce blood-air interface. Blood from the patient or prime solution is routed through an air removal device that is equipped with air sensors for detection of air. An active air removal controller removes detected air from blood in the air removal device. A disposable circuit support module is used to mount the components of the disposable, integrated extracorporeal blood circuit in close proximity and in a desirable spatial relationship to optimize priming and use of the disposable, integrated extracorporeal blood circuit. A reusable circuit holder supports the disposable circuit support module in relation to a prime solution source, the active air removal controller and other components.
US07829017B2 Sterilization system for sterilizing and/or neutralizing the activity of microorganisms in liquids and gases, and sterilization and/or neutralization process
In a sterilisation system for sterilising and/or neutralising the activity of micro-organisms in liquids and gasses, and in a sterilisation and/or neutralisation process, sterilisation is carried out by exposing the micro-organisms to a potential difference ranging from 200 to 1000 mV.
US07829016B2 C-band disinfector
A C-Band Disinfector disinfects objects placed within the interior of the device by subjecting the objects to emissions of UV-C radiation. Multiple UV-C sensors measure UV-C radiation dosage to the objects and control the period of operation of the device, terminating the emission of UV-C radiation only after all of the UV-C radiation sensors have received a minimum predetermined dosage.
US07829013B2 Components of earth-boring tools including sintered composite materials and methods of forming such components
The present invention includes consolidated hard materials, methods for producing them, and industrial drilling and cutting applications for them. A consolidated hard material may be produced using hard particles such as B4C or carbides or borides of W, Ti, Mo, Nb, V, Hf, Ta, Zr, and Cr in combination with an iron-based, nickel-based, nickel and iron-based, iron and cobalt-based, aluminum-based, copper-based, magnesium-based, or titanium-based alloy for a binder material. Commercially pure elements such as aluminum, copper, magnesium, titanium, iron, or nickel may also be used for the binder material. The mixture of the hard particles and the binder material may be consolidated at a temperature below the liquidus temperature of the binder material using a technique such as rapid omnidirectional compaction (ROC), the CERACON™ process, or hot isostatic pressing (HIP). After sintering, the consolidated hard material may be treated to alter its material properties.
US07829012B2 Enhancement of thermal stability of porous bodies comprised of stainless steel or an alloy
A method for treating a porous item constructed of metal powder, such as a powder made of Series 400 stainless steel, involves a step of preheating the porous item to a temperature of between about 700 and 900° C. degrees in an oxidizing atmosphere and then sintering the body in an inert or reducing atmosphere at a temperature which is slightly below the melting temperature of the metal which comprises the porous item. The thermal stability of the resulting item is enhanced by this method so that the item retains its porosity and metallic characteristics, such as ductility, at higher (e.g. near-melting) temperatures.
US07829011B2 Metal powder production system and method
A metal powder production system includes a vacuum chamber having a vacuum chamber interior, a stock feed mechanism communicating with the vacuum chamber interior, a radiation source provided in the vacuum chamber interior, a cooling chamber having a cooling chamber interior communicating with the vacuum chamber interior and a container communicating with the cooling chamber interior. A metal powder production method is also disclosed.
US07829009B2 Process for the production of a polymer layer of a flexible offshore pipe and a flexible unbonded offshore pipe
The invention relates to a process for the production of a polymer layer of a flexible unbonded offshore pipe. The process comprises the steps of shaping a polymer material by extrusion into or onto a supporting unit in an extrusion station and cross-linking said extruded polymer material, said polymer material comprising a polyethylene and a peroxide for providing a cross-linking of the polymer material. The peroxide has an activation temperature substantially above the temperature of the polymer material during the extrusion thereof. The cross-linking of the extruded polymer material is carried out by exposing the extruded polymer material to electromagnetic waves, selected from the group consisting of infrared radiation and microwave.The invention also relates to a flexible unbonded offshore pipe comprising such polymer layer.
US07829003B2 Method of making an article
A mask is used to make an article having two or more layers. The layers are formed from either a paint or polyurethane elastomer composition. The article is made in a mold including a surface defining a mold cavity and having a first and second effect region. For the method, a mask is placed into the mold cavity adjacent the first effect region. Pressure is applied to the mask to retain the mask adjacent the first effect region. A first composition is applied into the mold cavity to form a first layer adjacent the second effect region. The mask is removed from the first effect region. A second composition is applied into the mold cavity to form a second layer adjacent the first effect region. Benefits of pressure applied to a mask are also realized when making the article from a preformed part using the mask outside of a mold.
US07829000B2 Core-shell solid freeform fabrication
A method for creating a three-dimensional solid freeform fabrication object includes spreading a reactive powder on a substrate, selectively dispensing a core binder in the reactive powder to form a core material, and selectively dispensing a shell binder in the reactive powder to form a shell on the core material.
US07828999B2 Process and apparatus for producing fine particles
A fine particle producing process introduces a material for producing fine particles into a thermal plasma flame to make a vapor-phase mixture and quenches the vapor-phase mixture to form the fine particles. In the process, the material for producing the fine particles is dispersed or dissolved in a dispersion medium or solvent, preferably containing a combustible material to prepare a dispersion such as a slurry, a colloidal solution or a dissolution solution, the dispersion is made into a form of droplets, or the material for producing the fine particles is dispersed with a carrier gas and a combustible material and the dispersion in a droplet form or the dispersed material is introduced into the thermal plasma flame. In the fine particle producing process and apparatus, a gas of an amount sufficient to quench the vapor-phase mixture is supplied toward a tail of the thermal plasma flame. In the process and apparatus, primary fine particles are introduced into a cyclone to be subjected to cooling and classification and secondary fine particles having a particle size of 100 nm or less which are left upon removal of coarse particles are recovered.
US07828996B1 Method for the manufacture of stable, nano-sized particles
The current invention relates to methods of making nano-particles of a material with a narrow polydispersity. The particle materials are active agents, organic compounds, polymers, and combinations thereof.
US07828994B2 Conductive paint compositions for forming conductive coatings on substrates
A conductive paint composition includes a solvent, metal powder, a rheology control agent and a water-dispersible polyurethane resin therein. The water-dispersible polyurethane resin has at least one aromatic group and a repeat unit of ether therein.
US07828992B2 Composition comprising at least one type of liquid crystal
The present invention relates to a composition comprising at least one type of liquid crystal, to a liquid crystal cell and liquid crystal display device comprising such composition and to a method of preparing such a composition and/or such a liquid crystal cell.
US07828991B2 Polyether polyols based on cashew nutshell liquid and flexible foams
This invention relates to novel polyether polyols which are prepared by alkoxylation of renewable resource materials, and particularly cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL), and to a process for the preparation of these novel polyether polyols. This invention also relates to flexible polyurethane foams prepared from these long chain polyether polyols, and to a process for the production of these flexible polyurethane foams.
US07828990B1 Low-melting point heat transfer fluid
A low-melting point, heat transfer fluid made of a mixture of five inorganic salts including about 29.1-33.5 mol % LiNO3, 0-3.9 mol % NaNO3, 2.4-8.2 mol % KNO3, 18.6-19.9 mol % NaNO2, and 40-45.6 mol % KNO2. These compositions can have liquidus temperatures below 80° C. for some compositions.
US07828988B2 Anisotropic rare earth bonded magnet having self-organized network boundary phase and permanent magnet motor utilizing the same
An anisotropic rare-earth bonded magnet having a network boundary phase is provided by imparting melt fluidity accompanied by a slip to a composite granule and compressing and molding the composite granule in a magnetic field together with extensible polymer molecules and a chemical contact. In the bonded magnet, the maximum energy product is 147 kJ/m3 in the thickness of 1 mm, or 127 kJ/m3 in the thickness of 300 μm. This bonded magnet contributes to increase in output and decrease in size and weight of a permanent-magnet motor.
US07828986B2 Forming surface features using self-assembling masks
A method. A combination is provided of a block copolymer and additional material. The copolymer includes a first block of a first polymer covalently bonded to a second block of a second polymer. The additional material is miscible with the first polymer. The first polymer includes polystyrene and the second polymer includes poly(ethylene oxide). A first layer including polydimethylglutarimide is adhered onto a surface of a substrate including a dielectric coated silicon wafer. A film is formed of the combination directly onto a surface of the first layer. Nanostructures of the additional material self-assemble within the first polymer block. The film and the first layer are simultaneously etched. The nanostructures have an etch rate lower than an etch rate of the block copolymer and lower than an etch rate of the first layer. Portions of the film are removed. Features remain on the surface of the first layer.
US07828985B2 Method of producing thin film magnetic head
A method of producing a thin film magnetic head includes the steps of: forming a second lower magnetic pole layer in a part on a first lower magnetic pole layer; forming, over the entire wafer surface, an insulating layer so as to be thicker than the thickness of the second lower magnetic pole layer in the stacking direction, the insulating layer being less likely to be etched than the second lower magnetic pole layer; carrying out a planarizing process by CMP on the entire wafer surface until the second lower magnetic pole layer is exposed; forming a concave portion including the second lower magnetic pole layer and the insulating layer by ion beam etching on the entire wafer surface; forming a recording gap layer over the entire wafer surface; and forming a first upper magnetic pole layer in the upper magnetic pole layer so as to fill the concave portion.
US07828978B2 Simultaneous synthesis and purification of a fatty acid monoester biodiesel fuel
Simultaneous synthesis and purification of a fatty acid monoester biodiesel fuel from a triacylglycerol feedstock is described. In an exemplary method, the triacylglycerol feedstock is continuously contacted with a catalytic chromatographic bed comprising a first (solid phase) basic catalyst through a first port of a simulated moving bed chromatographic apparatus. A monohydric alcohol and optional second (mobile phase) basic catalyst is continuously contacted with the catalytic chromatographic bed through a second port and pumped in a first direction toward the triacylglycerol feedstock to contact the triacylglycerol in a reaction zone of the catalytic chromatographic bed where the fatty acid monoester and glycerol coproduct are formed. The fatty acid monoester is removed from the reaction zone through a product port of the simulated moving bed apparatus. Segments of the catalytic chromatographic bed are incrementally moved in a second direction, opposite the first direction, and the glycerol is removed from a raffinate port located opposite the product port of the apparatus.
US07828974B2 Method for the treatment of ground water and soils using dried algae and other dried mixtures
The induction of reducing conditions and stimulating anaerobic process through the addition of dried micro-blue green algae (Spirulina, Arthorospira Platensis, Arthrospria Maxima, Aphanizomen flos-aquae, and chlorella) and seaweed (Dulse, Nori, and Kelp) to accomplish accelerated dechlorinization of soil and groundwater contaminated with chlorinated solvents and heavy metals.
US07828970B2 Residential reverse osmosis system
A reverse osmosis system that includes a housing which receives feed water and a membrane element within the housing to filter the feed water. The membrane element includes a permeate outlet and a concentrate outlet. The reverse osmosis system further includes a sensor that monitors the condition of the water that exits from the membrane element. The reverse osmosis system further includes a first set of indicators that are located remotely from the housing. The first set of indicators showing a condition of the system based on data obtained from the sensor. The reverse osmosis system further includes a second set of indicators that are located near the housing to show a condition of the system based on data obtained from the sensor.
US07828965B2 Water preparation device, in particular for a drain cleaning vehicle
A water treatment arrangement which can, for example, be used in a sewer cleaning vehicle is described. An exemplary arrangement includes a separation device for a supplied mud-water mixture and a water tank which is connected to it for cleaned water. The separation device and the water tank can form a structural unit. The separation device for the mud-water mixture can be surrounded, at least in areas, by the water tank for cleaned water.
US07828964B1 Pool filter cleaner
The pool filter cleaner is a device for simultaneously cleaning the interior and exterior surfaces of a conventional cylindrical pool filter. The pool filter cleaner includes first and second elongated pipes, each having an upper end and a lower end. A hose connector provides fluid connection between an external hose, the upper end of the first elongated pipe and a first end of a cross pipe. A second end of the cross pipe is in fluid communication with the upper end of the second elongated pipe. A sprinkler head is mounted on the lower end of the first elongated pipe, and a nozzle is mounted on the lower end of the second elongated pipe. A cap is slidably mounted on the first elongated pipe, the cap being adapted for covering and sealing an upper opening of the pool filter when the sprinkler head is inserted within the pool filter.
US07828963B1 Pool jet filter cleaner
The pool jet filter cleaner includes a tube in fluid connection between a t-handle and a multi-directional nozzle, a coupling, sleeve, base, and shut-off valve. The cleaner works by resting the filter upon the base, inserting the coupling sleeve about the top end of the filter, and inserting the sprayer into the hollow cylindrical center of the filter. The pressurized water passes through the t-handle, down the tube, and out the multi-directional nozzle thereby cleaning the filter from the inside out.
US07828961B2 Sludge thickening device
A differential rate rotary thickener; a power detector which is disposed in a sludge receiver tank for thickened sludge thickened in the differential rate rotary thickener; a discriminator which receives an electric signal for a thickened sludge concentration (X) detected by the power detector and which calculates and discriminate the data; a first controller which receives an instruction signal being a discriminated result in the discriminator and which operates an outer cylinder driving machine and a screw driving machine; a ratio setter which receives a discriminated signal of the discriminator and which increases or decreases a chemical feed rate (α) of flocculant stepwise; and a second controller which receives an instruction signal from the ratio setter and which operates a flocculant-feeding pump are provided. Thickening of sludge is performed by controlling the chemical feed rate (α), a rotational speed (S) of a screw, and a rotational speed (C) of an outer cylinder screen.
US07828956B2 Method for measuring concentrations of gas moieties in a gas mixture
In at least one embodiment, a method is described for measuring concentrations of gas moieties in a gas mixture. A mixed-potential gas sensor is exposed to a gas mixture in order to obtain a first and a second mixed-potential gas sensor output responses. The first output response and a second output response are deconvoluted to measure a first analyte gas concentration and a second analyte gas concentration. Some of the output responses may be used as inputs to a control system.
US07828955B2 Ammonia gas sensors
One embodiment of an ammonia gas sensor includes: a reference electrode, an ammonia selective sensing electrode and an electrolyte disposed therebetween. The sensing electrode comprises the reaction product of a main material selected from the group consisting of vanadium, tungsten, molybdenum, vanadium oxides, tungsten oxides, molybdenum oxides, and combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing main materials, and an electrically conducting material selected from the group consisting of electrically conductive metals, electrically conductive metal oxides, and combinations comprising at least one of the foregoing.
US07828952B2 Methods of and apparatus for electrochemically fabricating structures via interlaced layers or via selective etching and filling of voids
Multi-layer structures are electrochemically fabricated by depositing a first material, selectively etching the first material (e.g. via a mask), depositing a second material to fill in the voids created by the etching, and then planarizing the depositions so as to bound the layer being created and thereafter adding additional layers to previously formed layers. The first and second depositions may be of the blanket or selective type. The repetition of the formation process for forming successive layers may be repeated with or without variations (e.g. variations in: patterns; numbers or existence of or parameters associated with depositions, etchings, and or planarization operations; the order of operations, or the materials deposited). Other embodiments form multi-layer structures using operations that interlace material deposited in association with some layers with material deposited in association with other layers.
US07828945B2 Plating barrel, barrel plating apparatus and drain equipment
The present invention can provide 1 which barrel plating apparatus where a plating barrel has permeable holes and slits in a size of order of micrometers on the wall thereof. The plating barrel is fabricated with porous plastic materials which have permeable holes and slits to the plating liquid and no piece materials to be plated are dropped thereof. Further advantage of the present invention is to provide a drain tool to drain the plating liquid L staying in the plating barrel.
US07828940B2 Onsite chemistry air filtration system
An onsite chemistry air filtration system to remove gaseous contaminants from air is disclosed. The onsite chemistry air filtration system of the present invention comprises: a conventional particulate filtration section, a photochemical filtration section, a static gas phase filtration section and a catalytic filtration section. The conventional particulate filtration section captures solids and condensables. In the photochemical filtration section, UV lamps generate bio-destruction and surface photochemical activity on a semiconductor catalyst material, provide a radiation source to irradiate airborne contaminant molecules and to energize their states to promote reactions and generate airborne ozone and radicals. In the static gas phase filtration section, gas phase filtration media is used to capture contaminants, concentrate them in a relatively confined space and allow airborne generated chemistries to concentrate and react in-situ, thereby creating a regeneration effect on the media. In the catalytic filtration section, catalytic media scavenges and converts airborne radicals and ozone to harmless by-products.
US07828934B2 Reactive cationic resins for use as dry and wet strength agents in sulfite ion-containing papermaking systems
This invention relates to resins useful for imparting strength to paper, the process of incorporating these resins into paper and the paper produced containing the resins. In particular the invention relates to resins useful for imparting dry-strength and wet-strength to paper under conditions of high sulfite ion concentrations.
US07828930B2 Use of polysulfide in modified cooking
A method for Kraft pulping employing a modified cooking process in conjunction with polysulfide pulping technologies to obtain higher pulping yields than obtained in the prior art. The total required alkali charge (polysulfide liquor) is added to the beginning of a cook, and after all polysulfide has essentially reacted with lignocellulosic material at temperature below that at which no significant carbohydrate degradation occurs, a first quantity of the cooking liquor high in effective alkali (EA) concentration is removed from a first point in the pulping process and replaced with a cooking liquor low in EA concentration removed from another process point. The first quantity is then added elsewhere in the pulping process, where the EA concentration is low. This cooking liquor “exchange” obtains the full yield benefit from polysulfide pulping and a more uniform EA concentration profile to retain the major benefits of modified cooking.
US07828926B1 Selective removal of resin coatings and related methods
The present invention provides assemblies and methods for selectively removing resin coatings from a radiation detector. A method includes positioning a cutting edge on a resin coating formed on a radiation detector. The method further includes positioning a bonding member on the resin coating, applying a force to the bonding member such that a portion of the resin coating is pulled away from the radiation detector, and cutting the resin coating so as to detach the portion of the resin coating pulled away from the detector, thereby selectively removing the portion of the resin coating from the radiation detector.
US07828924B2 Intermediate material for manufacturing circuit board and method for manufacturing circuit board using such intermediate material
An intermediate material which is adapted to manufacture a circuit board includes a prepreg sheet having a through-hole provided therein, a first film provided on a surface of the prepreg sheet and having a first hole communicating with the through-hole, a second film provided on another surface of the prepreg sheet and having a second hole communicating with the through-hole, and a conductive paste filling the though-hole, the first hole, and the second hole. The thickness t1 of the prepreg sheet, the minimum diameter rmin of the through-hole, the thickness tf1 of the first film, the diameter rf1 of the first hole, the thickness tf2 of the second film, the diameter rf2 of the second hole satisfy a relation: rf1/tf1≧3, rf2/tf2≧3, and rmin/(t1+tf1+tf2)≦1.5. This intermediate material provides a circuit board having a fine via-conductor connected to a metal foil securely and stably.
US07828921B2 Method of coating with a top coat a covering profile for floorings
The invention relates to a method for coating a cover profile and at least one compensation profile of a cover device, which can be connected to a cover flange of the cover profile and which is used for floor covering provided with a cover layer. The cover layer is stuck to a preprofile prior to the cover profile being produced from the preprofile which is coated by the cover layer. According to the invention, the advantages of the production is that the cover profile and the compensation profile which is connected to the lower side of the cover flange of the cover profile by at least one web, forms the preprofile, such that external surfaces of the preprofile, which form the visible sides of the cover profile and the compensation profile, are covered with protruding strips of the cover layer over the longitudinal edge of the visible sides and that the path passes between the cover profile and the compensation profile after bending the protruding strip areas of the cover layer about the longitudinal edge of the visible sides.
US07828915B2 Method for making Mg-based intermetallic compound
A method for making Mg(magnesium)-based intermetallic compound uses a thermal process during a melting process to produce largely the Mg-based intermetallic compound. The vapor pressure of Mg is high, thereby Mg is prone to be vaporized from a melt and a wrought solid alloy in the melting process of high temperature, for purifying the wrought Mg-based intermetallic compound. The method may simplify the process and devices for making the Mg-based intermetallic compound, and produce efficiently a larger of high purity Mg-based intermetallic compound.
US07828913B1 Peritectic, metastable alloys containing tantalum and nickel
A metastable, peritectic alloy contains nickel in addition to tantalum and, optionally, niobium and/or tungsten. The alloy typically contains between from about 60 to 70 weight percent nickel and between from about 30 to 40 weight percent tantalum. The alloy may be prepared by melting the nickel and tantalum and/or a tantalum-nickel alloy under an inert gas or under a vacuum to a temperature of approximately 1475° C. to about 1550° C. The molten metal is then poured through a ceramic nozzle fitted with gas jets to atomize the molten stream into small droplets. The metastable characteristics of the corrosion resistant alloy are attained due to the rapid solidification of the molten alloy during the atomization process. The metastable alloy may further be used as cermet binder wherein another metal or interstitial alloy is incorporated by communition and/or blending into the alloy. This provides a unique system of materials that will impart even higher oxidation resistance and/or chemical and/or wear resistance than the metastable alloy per se. Surface treatments, such as pulse laser, transferred arc plasma, etc. of the peritectic, metastable alloy further may serve to regenerate a surface containing the alloy which has been exposed to harsh environments.
US07828911B2 Colored conversion layers devoid of chrome formed on metal surfaces
A method for producing coloured layers on zinc, aluminium, magnesium or alloy surfaces. The surfaces are brought into contact with an aqueous treatment solution which is devoid of chrome, said solution containing, in total, 3-35 g/l persulfate ions and/or peroxodisulfate ions and not more than 10 g/l ammonia or ammonium ions, it has a pH value in the region of between 10-12 and a temperature in the range of between 30-80 ° C. The surfaces are brought into contact with the treatment solution for a period in the region of 0.5-5 minutes and optionally, they are covered with a coating based on organic polymers. The invention further relates to metal parts treated according to said method.
US07828908B1 Acid cleaning and corrosion inhibiting compositions comprising gluconic acid
A biodegradable acid cleaning composition for cleaning stainless steel, and other surfaces is disclosed. The composition comprises urea sulfate in combination with gluconic acid which serves as a corrosion inhibitor. The composition retains the cleaning and corrosion prevention properties of similar phosphoric acid solutions but is safe for the environment and is less expensive to produce. Applicants have surprisingly found that the traditionally alkaline corrosion inhibitor, gluconic acid, can work effectively in an acidic cleaning composition.
US07828906B2 Turbine cleaning method
Depending on the actual operating situation and the composition of the fuels used for driving the internal combustion engine, contamination of the moving blades, of the guide device and of the turbine casing parts occurs sooner or later in the exhaust gas turbine. According to the invention, a small quantity of cleaning fluid is fed continuously or cyclically into the exhaust gas flow of an exhaust gas turbine and is directed onto the components to be cleaned. The small quantity of cleaning fluid can be fed in with unchanged operation of the internal combustion engine, such that the exhaust gas turbine can be cleaned or kept clean within the entire operating range of the internal combustion engine. Fluctuations in the power output of the internal combustion engine on account of requisite cleaning of the exhaust gas turbine therefore do not occur. Furthermore, the formation of thermostress cracks in the critical turbine casing parts is largely avoided.
US07828898B2 CVD apparatus of improved in-plane uniformity
A CVD apparatus includes a vertical boat extending in a vertical direction and capable of holding plural substrates in a horizontal state such that the substrates are aligned in the vertical direction, an inner tube extending in the vertical direction and provided so as to surround the boat laterally, an outer tube surrounding the inner tube laterally from outside, the outer tube further covering a top part of the inner tube, a flange holding the inner tube and outer tube at respective bottom ends thereof, gas introducing nozzles provided on a flange sidewall at two locations thereof, the gas introducing nozzles introducing gases from outside to an interior of the inner tube at respective gas ejection ports, and a gas evacuation part evacuating a gas in the outer tube to outside thereof, wherein there is provided a guide part in the vicinity of the gas ejection ports of the gas introducing nozzles such that the gases ejected from the respective gas ejection ports are caused to flow generally parallel to a bottom surface of the flange along an inner surface of the flange sidewall.
US07828892B2 Inorganic board and a method for the manufacturing thereof
The object of the present invention is to provide an inorganic board whose dimensional stability, anti-freezing and fusing properties, and the like are much improved.To attain this object, an inorganic board is manufactured using a method comprising: preparing a raw material slurry by the dispersing of a cementitious material, silica-containing material, woody reinforcement, and mica in water, forming a papered mat by sheet forming the raw material slurry, pressing the papered mat, and curing the pressed papered mat in an autoclave at a temperature higher than 150° C., wherein the mass ratio of the cementitious inorganic material and silica-containing material is set to be in the range of between 35:65 and 45:55, to promote the curing reaction of the inorganic board and improve its dimensional stability and anti-freezing and fusing properties.
US07828889B2 Treatments and kits for creating transparent renewable surface protective coatings
Methods, treatment compositions and treatment systems are disclosed for forming a detachable and renewable coating on a receptive surface by a process of applying a treatment composition comprising a plurality of hydrophobically modified fumed silica particles colloidally dispersed in a volatile solvent; allowing the volatile solvent to evaporate; and thereby depositing a protective coating on the receptive surface consisting of a layer of the hydrophobically modified particles, which provide a substantially transparent coating with dirt- and water-repellency properties that effectively shed dry particulate soils as well as water from the treated surface or treated article bearing a receptive surface. The methods, treatment compositions and treatment systems employing the hydrophobically modified fumed silica particle are particularly useful in providing nearly invisible detachable coatings and treated articles featuring surface protective benefits including dirt- and water-repellency, self-cleaning with water, and easier cleaning benefits when applied to a variety of automotive and home surfaces, both interior and exterior, including articles and materials such as metals, painted materials, sealed materials, plastics and polymeric articles, wood, textiles and the like.
US07828887B2 Dye-based ink formulations
Dye-based ink formulations and methods of making dye-based ink formulations are disclosed.
US07828885B1 Anti-microbial compositions and polymers
Anti-microbial compositions, polymers and paints having incorporated therein at least one phenolic complex. Preferably a chloroxylenol complex is utilized for topical treatment of a patient with a bacterial or viral skin infection.
US07828883B2 Carbon ion pump for removal of carbon dioxide from combustion gas and other gas mixtures
A novel method and system of separating carbon dioxide from flue gas is introduced. Instead of relying on large temperature or pressure changes to remove carbon dioxide from a solvent used to absorb it from flue gas, the ion pump method, as disclosed herein, dramatically increases the concentration of dissolved carbonate ion in solution. This increases the overlying vapor pressure of carbon dioxide gas, permitting carbon dioxide to be removed from the downstream side of the ion pump as a pure gas. The ion pumping may be obtained from reverse osmosis, electrodialysis, thermal desalination methods, or an ion pump system having an oscillating flow in synchronization with an induced electric field.
US07828878B2 High frequency PSA process for gas separation
An improved gas separation PSA process, more particularly for oxygen production, utilizing adsorbents of Type X characterized by high frequency (i.e., cycle times of less than 4 s), bed length to square of mean particle diameter ratio within 200 to 600 mm−1, bed size factor of less than 50 lb/TPDO. The bed length, mean particle size, and cycle time are selected in a range such that axial dispersion becomes an important factor. In this way, low product recovery and high pressure drop (high power consumption) disadvantages often associated with the use of small particles are overcome.
US07828876B2 Systems and methods for organic particulate filtration
The present invention provides systems and methods for organic particulate filtration. An organic particulate filtration system is implemented within a fossil fuel power plant combustion system. The filtration system comprises a gas flow, in which gas are entrained particulates. The filtration system has a collection hopper located proximate a precipitator collection area. Within the collection hopper, a particulate baffle is provided in a downward-angled orientation. The particulate baffle is enabled to trap particulate, such as organic particulate, in the collection hopper, thereby preventing particulate re-entrainment in the gas flow.
US07828873B2 Forehearth
A direct smelting vessel (3) for operating a molten bath-based direct smelting process under pressure conditions in the vessel is disclosed. The vessel includes a forehearth (67) for tapping molten metal continuously from the vessel. The forehearth includes an open connection (97) that extends through a side wall of the vessel into the interior of the vessel. The open connection is formed to dampen the impact of sudden changes in pressure in the vessel on molten metal flow in the forehearth that could result in an undesirable surge of molten metal from the forehearth. The open connection is also formed so that molten metal does not freeze in the connection for at least 6 hours when molten metal is not being discharged from the vessel into the forehearth via the open connection.
US07828872B2 Copper microparticle and process for producing the same
There is provided a process comprising mixing a divalent copper oxide with a reducing agent in the presence of a complexing agent and a protective colloid in a liquid medium to thereby produce copper microparticles without formation of a univalent copper oxide from the divalent copper oxide. Further, there is provided a process comprising reducing a divalent copper oxide in the presence of a complexing agent and a protective colloid, such as a protein, to thereby form metallic copper microparticles, adding a protective colloid scavenger, such as a protease, to thereby remove the protective colloid and effect agglomeration of metallic copper microparticles, and filtering the mixture by means of a pressure filter, a vacuum filter, a suction filter, etc.
US07828871B2 Soluble fertilizer compositions comprising calcium and/or magnesium phosphates
The present invention provides fertilizer compositions comprising calcium and magnesium phosphates together with alkali metal double phosphates, and process for their preparation. The solid composition is freely flowing and well soluble.
US07828869B1 Space-effective filter element
A filter element is provided with a space-effective construction facilitating efficient space utilization in applications of constrained space requirements.
US07828864B2 Steam reforming fuel processor, burner assembly, and methods of operating the same
Systems and methods for producing hydrogen gas with a fuel processing system that includes a hydrogen-producing region that produces hydrogen gas from a feed stream and a heating assembly that consumes a fuel stream to produce a heated exhaust stream for heating the hydrogen-producing region. In some embodiments, the heating assembly heats the hydrogen-producing region to at least a minimum hydrogen-producing temperature. In some embodiments, the feed stream and the fuel stream both contain a carbon-containing feedstock and at least 25 wt % water. In some embodiments, at least one of the feed and fuel streams contain at least one additional component. In some embodiments, the feed and fuel streams have the same composition. In some embodiments, the feed and fuel streams are drawn or obtained from a common source or supply, and in some embodiments as a liquid stream that is selectively apportioned to form the feed and fuel streams.
US07828862B2 Highly effective fuel additives for igniting internal combustion engines, diesel engines and jet propulsion engines
The fuel additives of the present invention comprise essentially of about 10-50 weight % of terpene, 0-15 weight % of Alkylene Glycol Ether, and 40-80 weight % of 2-Propanone, 0-20 weight % of Dibasic Methyl Ester and 0-15 weight % of nonyl phenol ethoxylate and 0-15 weight % of mineral oil. This highly effective fuel additives can eliminate the formation of deposits and form air-borne micro-cluster molecules in internal combustion engines, particularly, in the fuel injection system and combustion chamber of such engines.
US07828858B2 Mixture of sulfide dyes
Disclosed are mixtures of sulfide dyes and dyeing compositions comprising mixtures of sulfide dyes. The dye mixtures are useful for the dyeing of organic materials, such as keratin fibers, preferably human hair.
US07828857B2 System for using a digit to position a prosthetic or orthotic device
A method and system for determining a grip or grasp pattern of a prosthetic terminal device or other orthotic device using the position of the thumb or other digit as the initial determination of the grasping function. The system comprising sensors, an electronic control system and a motor drive.
US07828853B2 Articular surface implant and delivery system
A method is provided for delivering an implant for replacing a portion of an articular surface. The method may include forming a socket in an articulating feature that is capable of moving relative to the articular surface. An implant may be placed in the socket and the articulating feature may be moved relative to the articular surface to generally align the socket with an implant site formed in the articular surface. The implant may be transferred from the socket into the implant site.
US07828852B2 Inlaid articular implant
A method is provided for performing a total knee arthroplasty. The method includes making a primary incision near a knee joint of a patient and resecting medial and lateral condyles of the femur of the leg to create at least one femoral cut surface. The resecting step is performed without dislocating the knee joint. The method also includes balancing various ligament tensions to obtain desired tension and moving a femoral component of a total knee implant through the primary incision. The method further includes positioning the femoral component with respect to the at least one femoral cut surface.
US07828851B2 Modular trial mechanism
A prosthetic trial for a joint prosthesis includes a stem having a proximal section and a distal section for implantation in a bone. A body includes a channel receiving at least the proximal section of the stem. A locking mechanism is at least partially disposed within the body. The locking mechanism is biased into a locking position in which the mechanism locks the stem within the first channel of the body. The locking mechanism is accessible outside said body to be pulled into a releasing position to unlock the stem from the body.
US07828850B2 Methods and devices for spinal disc annulus reconstruction and repair
The present invention provides methods and devices for annulus disc repair with and without the use of a patch or stent. The methods and devices are particularly suited to the repair and/or reconstruction of the spinal disc wall (annulus) after surgical invasion or pathologic rupture, with reduced failure rate as compared to conventional surgical procedures.
US07828848B2 Expandable osteosynthesis cage
An expandable osteosynthesis implant has branches each connected at one end to a seat which is pierced by an orifice, suitable for being slid from a posterior direction between the facing faces of two consecutive vertebrae in order to hold them a given distance apart and restore stability of the spinal column. The branches and the seat define a hollow cage which, in a “rest” position, has an outside general shape that is a cylinder of circular section, and a portion at least of the inside volume of the cage towards the distal ends of the branches is in the form of a circular truncated cone whose large base is towards the seat, which implant has at least three branches and, inside the inside volume at least one spacer suitable for passing through the orifice and the large base of the truncated cone.
US07828846B2 Space keeper for vertebrae or intervertebral disks
A space keeper for vertebrae or intervertebral disks is provided, which has a tubular section and teeth on the respective ends of the space keeper. On at least one end of the tubular section an element is provided, which has a top plate which is tiltable about an angle to the longitudinal axis of the tubular section.
US07828845B2 Laterally expanding intervertebral fusion device
Intervertebral spacers are provided for use in orthopedic treatment of spinals defects. The intervertebral spacer is formed of a shape memory polymer. The spacer can be fabricated into a desired configuration and then deformed into an alternative or deformed configuration. Cooling the deformed spacer effectively freezes the spacer into its deformed conformation. The deformed configuration can be selected to facilitate implantation of the spacer into a prepared disc space between adjacent vertebrae. During operation, the surgeon can heat the spacer to allow it to revert to its original configuration. The spacer in its original conformation is sized to restore and/or maintain the adjacent vertebrae in a desired conformation and disc space height.
US07828833B2 Composite ePTFE/textile prosthesis
A composite intraluminal prosthesis which is preferably used as a vascular prosthesis includes a layer of ePTFE and a layer of textile material which are secured together by an elastomeric bonding agent. The ePTFE layer includes a porous microstructure defined by nodes interconnected by fibrils. The adhesive bonding agent is preferably applied in solution so that the bonding agent enters the pores of the microstructure of the ePTFE. This helps secure the textile layer to the ePTFE layer.
US07828832B2 Intravascular deployment device with improved deployment capability
An intravascular delivery catheter includes a middle member or manipulator to ameliorate the effect of buckling of the graft cover during the tracking or positioning of the delivery device within a body flow lumen to deploy an exclusion device, such a stent graft. The delivery device/catheter includes a region or regions of lower resistance to bending than other portions of the delivery device, which are positioned, within the delivery device, to preferentially bend the delivery system at locations where buckling will have minimal effect upon the deployment of the exclusion device from the delivery system. The preferential bending is accomplished, by providing a middle member/manipulator that is a rod with laterally oriented slots, having different depth and spacing configurations, or by using a wire coil as a portion of the middle member where the variable stiffness is created either by providing a variable/multiple coil diameter or by using a wire having a variable diameter along its length while the wire coil diameter is relatively uniform.
US07828830B2 Dynamic spinal stabilization
A dynamic spinal stabilization apparatus comprises a stabilization device such as a rod or a plate. Elongated bores, interfaces, or terminations packed with elastic material provides relative movement between the devices to allow spinal flexion and extension. Initially, relative movement may be constrained by a degradable materials, such as a resorbable material, to allow and screws to fuse to the associated bone.
US07828823B2 Device for connecting bony portions
A device for connecting bony portions, such as a dynamic intervertebral connection device, includes a female member (2) having a cavity (5) and intended to be connected to a first bony portion, a male member (1) articulated in the cavity (5) and intended to be connected to a second bony portion, the male member (1) having a lateral articulation surface (13) coacting with a lateral surface (6a) of the cavity (5) to guide movements of inclination of the male member (1) relative to the female member (2), and resilient elements (8) arranged to exert an action countering the inclination movements. The resilient elements (8) are disposed in a recess (10) of the male member (1) delimited laterally by a surface (12) that is opposite the articulation surface (13).
US07828822B2 Spinous process implant
A spine distraction implant alleviates pain associated with spinal stenosis and facet arthropathy by expanding the volume in the spine canal and/or neural foramen. In an embodiment of the invention, the implant provides a spinal extension stop while allowing freedom of spinal flexion. In an embodiment of the invention, the extension stop consists of conically shaped members that snap or are otherwise fastened together. In an embodiment of the invention, the cones are made of a flexible material and the surfaces are flattened to carry and spread the load applied to the spinal processes. In an embodiment of the invention, the extension stop pieces are inserted after the spinous processes are spread apart.
US07828820B2 Method and apparatuses for securing suture
Various suture anchors and surgical methods are provided. A two-part suture anchor is provided having a continuously threaded anchor body defining an axial bore and a pin. The pin includes a tip and a plate defining at least two suture receiving openings aligned in a single plane that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the axial bore is disposed in anchor body. Methods of attaching soft tissue to bone are also provided.
US07828818B2 Heart septal defect occlusion devices with adjustable length tether adapting to the unique anatomy of the patient
The present invention relates to heart septal defect occlusion devices with adjustable length tether which can adapt the interseptal length of the device to the unique anatomy of the patient. The right disc as recited in the present invention is made from a double-deck metal mesh with contraction function, and the left disc is made from at least two skeletons covered by membranes. The two discs are active linked together. Because the connection of the two discs has gimbal function and the distance between the two discs may expand and contract suitably, the device can adapt to the unique anatomy of the patient. Therefore the two discs may attach to the heart valves closely and increase its closing ability. Furthermore it can reduce the thrombus and operate more easily.
US07828816B2 Method and device for filtering body fluid
Medical devices for filtering fluids flowing through a lumen and a method of forming medical devices. The devices can be used in vascular channels, urinary tracts, biliary ducts and the like, and filter emboli and other debris generated at a treatment site.
US07828813B2 Gastric band
The invention concerns a band not provided with a dilatable portion, characterized in that it comprises different successive separate zones (A, B, C) formed on its entire developed length, while forming a single-piece and single-unit assembly, and its two ends (1a), (1b) are specifically configured to form flexible nesting and position-locking male-female parts by defining a first head zone (A) and a second rear and anchoring zone (B) forming a main tip and integrated into each other, and between said two zones, the ring comprises a third intermediate connecting zone (C) with solid cross-section over the main part of its length, designed to be more specifically pressed on the part of the stomach to be enclosed.
US07828809B2 Device for immobilizing a primary instrument and method therefor
Devices and methods provide accurate targeting, placement, and/or stabilization of an electrode or other instrument(s) into the brain or other body organ, such as to treat severe tremor or other neurological disorders. Targeting is performed using any form of image-guidance, including real-time MRI, CT, or frameless surgical navigation systems.
US07828806B2 Accessory for implanting a hip endoprosthesis, and method for manipulating the same
Accessory for implantation of a hip joint endoprosthesis, with a manipulation cup, a manipulation joint head with means for orienting the manipulation cup in the acetabulum, and with a device to represent the correctly oriented position of the manipulation cup such that by means of this device a bone-milling cutter and an impact instrument can then oriented appropriately for placement of the prosthesis cup.
US07828801B2 External fixation device for fractures
An external fixation device and method, which is designed for the setting and corrective treatment of bone fractures. More particularly, the provision is made for an external orthopaedic wrist fixation device for the setting and corrective treatment of bone fractures which may be encountered in the distal radial portion of the forearm of a patient, through the utilization of novel cross pin arrangements extending through the site of the fracture for fracture fixation and with the absence of the risks and discomfort of encountered Ligamentotaxis.
US07828799B2 Probe arrangement
The disclosure provides a probe arrangement having a distal probe tip and a proximal hand portion for the electrothermal coagulation of tissue. The probe arrangement has at least a first and a second electrode in the region of the distal probe tip. An inner conductor of the probe arrangement extends from the distal probe tip to the proximal hand portion and contacts the first electrode in the distal probe tip. An outer conductor of the probe arrangement extends from the distal probe tip to the proximal hand portion and serves to electrically contact the second electrode in the distal probe tip. The inner and outer conductors of the probe arrangement are electrically insulated from each other. Furthermore the inner conductor is selected in such a way that the flexural stiffness of the probe arrangement is increased between the probe tip and the hand portion.
US07828797B2 Electrosurgical accessing of tissue with controlled collateral thermal phenomena
Method, system and apparatus for carrying out electrosurgical procedures interstitially. Elevated temperature fluid such as steam generated by an instrument born electrosurgical cutting arc is evacuated through an intake port located adjacent the cutting electrode. Instrument cannula surface heating caused by transport of the heated fluid is isolated. Such thermal isolation is provided by a thermal shield which may be configured as an enveloping sheath.
US07828788B2 Connector, container with such a connector and fluid preparation device with a mating connector for such a container
A connector for connecting a container with a fluid preparation device for preparing a fluid, in particular a container with a concentrate for the preparation of dialysis fluid, as well as the combination of the connector, the corresponding container and the fluid preparation device. In order to simplify the handling during both the manufacturing process of such containers and the connection of such containers to the fluid preparation devices, the connector connects a first and second fluid line of the container with a third and fourth fluid line of the fluid preparation device with two laterally spaced-apart mounting elements which each incorporate one of two orifices terminating the first and second fluid lines.
US07828786B2 Bicompartment bags for haemodyalisis machines and a process for manufacturing them
A bicompartment bag adapted to prepare a liquid solution has an assembly of two flexible outer sheets with an access bushing affixed through one of the sheets. The interior of the bag is divided into two chambers by a third flexible sheet having a screen-like stripe with its distal end located at the bottom of the bag. The third sheet has a bore affixed around its edge onto the annular plane of the bushing end projecting into the bag. The first chamber communicates with, through the bushing, a solvent inlet and is partially filled with powdered solute. The inside of the second chamber has a layer separate from the bag. The second chamber layer, constructed of a woven or injected material, extends from a semicircular recess made in correspondence with the bushing to the bottom of the second chamber. The bushing provides the opening for removal of the resulting solution.
US07828777B2 Sealing element
A sealing element is suggested, in particular one for closing primary packaging for medications, that has at least two parts, which touch each other at least in some areas. This is characterized in that steam-permeable channels are provided for sterilization of the contact surfaces. In addition, a method is suggested for manufacturing a syringe system with a sealing element. This is characterized by the steps—preliminary assembly of the sealing element, —sterilization of the sealing element, —final assembly of the sealing element.
US07828773B2 Safety reset key and needle assembly
A safety reset key is used to release a locking mechanism holding a safety shield in place over a sharp tip of a needle. In one embodiment, the reset key has ribs that are received in peripheral slots on the safety shield to engage an unlocking mechanism that unlocks a connection of the safety shield to the needle to allow the safety shield to be moved along the needle to expose the sharp tip, such as may be necessary for a second use of the needle. In another embodiment, the reset key includes a shroud that receives the shield to prevent the shield from being inadvertently pulled off of the needle when removing the key. The reset key may be associated with an obturator used to remove biological material from a central axial passageway of the needle.
US07828771B2 Systems and methods for delivering drugs
A patch pump device generally includes at least one fluid source, a fluid communicator, and an electrochemical actuator. The fluid communicator is in fluid communication with the fluid source. The electrochemical actuator is operative to cause fluid to be delivered from the fluid source into the fluid communicator.
US07828765B2 Method and device for administering two components into the teat canal of a non-human animal
The invention relates to a method and device for treating or preventing or suppressing a disease or condition in a non-human animal. The method comprises the steps of providing a single delivery device containing two components for sequential delivery from the delivery device. A first component is delivered from the single delivery device into a teat canal of a non-human animal and subsequently the second component is delivered from the single delivery device into the teat canal. The components are delivered without substantial mixing of the components.
US07828758B2 Ankle support with calcaneous control strap
A foot support having straps which receive the calcaneous and wrap around the midfoot in a tensioned state for stabilizing the rearfoot and the midfoot to avoid excessive inversion and eversion of the foot.
US07828756B2 Massage machine of chair type
A chair-type massage machine is provided which comprises a seat, backrest and leg portion having a plurality of preset reclining angles for giving an effective massage to the user in various postures. The massage machine comprises a seat pivotally movably supported by a base, a backrest pivotally movably supported by the seat at the rear end thereof, a leg portion pivotally movably supported by the seat at the front end thereof, control means for controlling seat moving means, backrest moving means and the leg portion moving means and a manual controller. The control means has stored therein a plurality of preset reclining angles with respect to the angle of the seat, backrest and the leg portion. The manual controller has reclining selection buttons for selecting one of the reclining angles and an initial position button. The control means operates the moving means for the seat, backrest and leg portion when the reclining angle is selected by the reclining selection button and pivotally moves the seat, backrest and leg portion to the selected angle.
US07828753B2 Electrode interface system
An electrode interface system for providing a connection between at least one electrode and a maternal-fetal monitor, wherein the interface system converts electrical muscle activity captured by the electrode(s) into uterine activity data signals for use by the maternal-fetal monitor. The electrode interface system of the invention preferably includes a conversion means for converting the signals from the electrode(s) into signals similar to those produced by a tocodynometer.
US07828751B2 Method and apparatus for retaining a fixation pin to a cannula
A medical device for placement in an anatomy and for use with a guide wire that generally includes a cannula member configured to be inserted into the anatomy. The cannula member has a wall that includes an outer wall surface and an inner wall surface. The inner wall surface defines an inner passage that extends along a longitudinal axis of the medical device. A guide wire holding member is formed in the wall of the cannula member. The guide wire holding member defines a cavity in the wall of the cannula member and an aperture in the inner wall surface in communication with the cavity that can receive the guide wire from the inner passage of the cannula member.
US07828745B2 Multiple biopsy apparatus and related method of use
An endoluminal biopsy device is provided with a proximal actuation mechanism attached to a distal sampler by at least one elongate member. The distal sampler includes a distal inner portion defining a plurality of chambers, each configured to receive a tissue sample, and a distal outer portion defining a cutting mechanism opening having a cutting edge adjacent the cutting mechanism opening. The distal outer portion is configured so that, when the cutting mechanism opening aligns with one of the plurality of chambers, the distal outer portion covers the remaining chambers. A related method for the use of such an endoluminal biopsy device also is provided.
US07828742B2 Method and system of monitoring respiratory signal by radio
A method and system is provided for monitoring a respiratory signal by radio. The method includes the steps of: converting a change in electric resistance, which is caused by a change in abdominal circumference measured through a rubber waistband that is made of conductive rubber and is mounted on a lower garment of a testee during respiration, into a voltage signal, performing A/D conversion on the voltage signal, and transmitting the converted digital signal to a short distance by radio using a wireless communication protocol for ZigBee; and receiving the respiratory signal transmitted by radio, transmitting it to a computer unit by wire through an RS-232 port that is a serial communication port, and enabling a tester to monitor the respiratory signal through a screen.
US07828740B2 Noninvasive apparatus and method for estimating blood pressure
Methods and apparatus for noninvasively estimating a blood pressure are provided. A pulmonic (P) component extracted from a second heart sound (S2) signal is analyzed to obtain a number of oscillations in the P component. A predetermined relationship between the number of oscillations and PAP is used to generate a blood pressure estimate. A PCG sensor including a mechanical filter for receiving heart sounds from a chest wall is also provided. The pressure of the PCG sensor on the chest wall is adjustable.
US07828739B2 Apnea detection system
A method and apparatus are described for utilizing a source of vascular pulse waveform data from a patient for the purpose of measuring pulsus paradoxus. The arterial pulse waveform data source described is a pulse oximeter plethysmograph but can be any similar waveform data source, including an intra-arterial transducer, external blood pressure transducer, or plethysmograph. Through incorporation of measurements of values, such as an area under a pulse waveform curve, that are time-domain functions of a change in amplitude of the pulse waveform over a duration of the waveform, embodiments of the present invention represent a significant improvement upon previously described methods of measuring pulsus paradoxus.
US07828736B2 Electronic scan type ultrasound diagnostic instrument
An electronic scan type ultrasound diagnostic instrument employing an ultrasound transducer which is constituted by an array of transducer elements in a predetermined direction and adapted to drive a plural number of adjacent located transducer elements in simultaneous or delayed action mode. Arrayed transducer elements are divided into a plural number of transducer assembly units in the arrayed direction. Each one of the transducer elements is provided with a separate electrode which is connected with a signal line separately from other transducer elements, and a common electrode which is connected commonly with one or a plural number of transducer elements. A signal line from a separate electrode of a transducer element is short circuited with a signal line from a transducer element in a different transducer assembly unit and connected together to a single wiring cable.
US07828731B2 Ultrasonographic apparatus, ultrasonographic data processing method, and ultrasonographic data processing program
An ultrasonographic apparatus in which the S/N ratio of a compound image is improved operates by combining a plurality of reception beam signals from probes arranged at different positions relative to a sample, converting the combined ultrasonic beam into a luminance signal, and displaying the luminance signal.
US07828727B2 Minimally invasive bone manipulation device and method of use
A surgical apparatus. The apparatus includes a handle structure, a shaft structure coupled to the handle structure, and a spreading structure coupled to the shaft structure and movable between a compact and an expanded configuration. The apparatus includes a protective sheath of shape-recovery material. The protective sheath covers the entire spreading structure in a substantially form fitting manner in any configuration of the spreading structure including the compact configuration, the expanded configuration and any configurations therebetween.
US07828723B2 Power driven bending endoscope with detachable insertion portion
A power driven bending endoscope with detachable insertion portion 2 is formed of an insertion body 3 having a flexible bending portion 3B, and a motor unit 4 having an electric motor 23 for driving to bend the bending portion 3B and a potentiometer 26 for detecting a bending state of the bending portion 3B, which are detachably coupled.
US07828718B2 Penis exercise machine
A penis exercise machine includes an attaching portion main body which is abutted against and mounted on a body surface side of a periphery of a man's penis, a pair of support rods whose one ends are turnably mounted on a surface of the attaching portion main body such that the support rods are located on both sides sandwiching the penis, a support portion which is mounted such that it can be attached to both end sides of the support rods and which is abutted such that a glans on the side of a tip end of the penis is supported, and a holding belt of the glans mounted on the support portion.
US07828715B2 Method of treating anal incontinence
A method for treating anal incontinence is provided, in which a support member is implanted in a tissue pathway extending from a first location posterior to and adjacent the anus, through the perineum anterior to the anus and terminating at a location posterior to and adjacent the anus opposite the first location.
US07828712B2 Frequency altered feedback for treating non-stuttering pathologies
Methods and devices treat treating non-stuttering pathologies having impaired or decreased communication skills by administering a frequency altered auditory feedback signal to a subject having a non-stuttering pathology while the subject is speaking or talking to thereby improve the subject's communication skills.Certain methods for treating subjects having non-stuttering pathologies or disorders presenting with an impairment or dysfunction in communication skills using frequency altered auditory feedback, comprise: (a) positioning a ear-supported device (devoid of external cabling during normal operation) for receiving auditory signals associated with a subject's speech in close proximity to at least one ear of an individual, the device being adapted to be in communication with at least one of the ear canals of the individual; (b) receiving in the device an audio signal associated with the subject's speech; (c) generating from the device a frequency altered auditory feedback signal having an associated frequency shift between about +/−2 octaves relative to the received audio signal; and (d) transmitting the frequency altered auditory feedback signal to at least one ear canal of the subject.
US07828711B2 Method and apparatus for modulating cellular growth and regeneration using ventricular assist device
A system delivers combined ventricular assist device (VAD) therapy and chemical and/or biological therapy to modulate myocardial tissue growth in a heart after myocardial infarction (MI). The system includes an agent delivery device to release one or more agents to an MI region to modulate myocardial tissue growth in that region, and a VAD to enhance the effects of the one or more agents by reducing myocardial wall stress and the overall cardiac workload. In one embodiment, the system is an implantable system including an implantable agent delivery device and an implantable VAD for long-term use in a patient.
US07828709B2 Blood processing apparatus with incipient spill-over detection
A density centrifuge blood processing system comprising a separation chamber rotating about a central rotation axis, the separation chamber being coupled to an elutriation chamber, a first detector for the separation chamber to detect light from an observation region, a computational apparatus distinguishing at least two regions in the observation region and distinguishing incipient spill over of cellular components out of the elutriation chamber as a function of light intensity received from the at least two regions in the separation chamber, and a controller regulating speed of at least one pump or of the separation chamber in response to signals from the computational apparatus to avoid spill over.
US07828706B2 Bilaterally actuated sculling trainer
An apparatus for simulating sculling or rowing on water includes a support frame with foot rests, a sliding seat, bilateral oars that are rotationally coupled to a set of actuators, integrated input velocity and torque sensors, computer and computer display. Each actuator incorporates a mechanical transmission, a rotational inertial mass, a variable linear and a variable non-linear damping element. The damping elements can be controlled manually or automatically by computer programs under user control.
US07828703B1 Portable exercise device
The present invention provides a compact, portable, centripetal force-driven exercise device. The device employs a handle equipped with a rotational member. One end of a strap is attached onto the rotational member; the other end to a soft bag. The soft bag, preferably of a heavy duty cloth or synthetic fiber construction, is capable of holding one or more water-refillable, reclosable plastic bags. The strap can have adjustable length. The soft bag itself is also capable of being filled with a desired amount of water. The handle preferably is covered on its exterior surface with a hand grip material. The user places the desired amount of contained water weight into the soft bag, holds the handle and swings the bag in an orbital pattern at a desired number of revolutions per minute to achieve the desired degree of centripetal force resistance to exercise, strengthen and condition the user's muscular system.
US07828702B2 Weight plate
A weight plate have integrally formed handles is provided. The weight plate has a weight plate body having an outer periphery, a first side, and a second side that is substantially flat. The weight plate also has a central bore extending through the body, a raised flange member forming a portion of the outer periphery on the first side, and at least one handle opening extending through the body and through ht least a portion of the outer periphery. The handle formed by each handle opening, the corresponding recess, and the raised flange member is sufficient for a human hand to grip.
US07828700B1 Exercise machine
An exercise machine has a stand, a linking assembly, an elastic member, a seat, two handles, two pedals and two wheels. The linking assembly is mounted pivotally on the stand. The elastic member is connected to the stand and the linking assembly. The seat is mounted on the stand. The handles, the pedals and the wheels are attached to the linking assembly. The handles are operated against the elastic members and the linking assembly moves to drive an exerciser's legs to stretch out. Therefore, the exercise machine provides the exerciser to train the muscles of the arms and the legs synchronously.
US07828695B2 Control apparatus and method for shift-position changing mechanism
A control apparatus for a shift-position changing mechanism that changes the shift positions of an automatic transmission mounted in a vehicle using a rotational force of an actuator based on the state of an operation member includes: a detection unit that detects a command to change the shift positions based on a change in the state of the operation member; a control unit that controls the actuator such that the actuator is rotated by a predetermined rotation amount, when a predetermined first condition concerning the state of the vehicle is satisfied in a case the command to change the shift positions is not detected; and a determination unit that determines that a failure has occurred in the shift-position changing mechanism, when a predetermined second condition on the control of the actuator is satisfied.
US07828693B2 Negative driveline torque control incorporating transmission state selection for a hybrid vehicle
In one embodiment, a hybrid propulsion system for a vehicle is provided. The system comprises at least one drive wheel; a first motor coupled to the drive wheel, said first motor configured to selectively generate electrical energy from kinetic energy received at the drive wheel; a second motor configured to selectively generate electrical energy from kinetic energy received at the drive wheel; a transmission including a first end coupled to the first motor and a second end coupled to the second motor; and a control system configured to vary a level of electrical energy generated by the first motor relative to the second motor in response to a thermal condition of at least one of said first and second motors to provide vehicle braking.
US07828692B2 Control device of vehicle, vehicle, and method of controlling vehicle
A control device causes a motor-generator to stop while a shift lever is set to a neutral position, and changes the rotation speed of an electric oil pump from a first rotation speed to a second rotation speed lower than the first rotation speed if a state of the electric oil pump in a hydraulic pressure control device enters a state where it is not preferable to continue operation at the first rotation speed. Preferably, the control device warns a driver to change the shift lever position from the neutral-position to another position if the vehicle satisfies a prescribed warning condition. Further preferably, the control device sets the vehicle to a running non-permitted state if the shift lever position is not changed from the neutral position to another position after warning.
US07828687B2 Modular planetary gear assembly and drive
An apparatus and method for a planetary gear assembly and drive is provided. The planetary gear assembly and drive has a space index of 60 and includes at least one planet gear with 15 teeth. The gear assembly and drive is capable of employing 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 planet gears and if multiple planet gears are employed, they are equally spaced about the circumference of the sun gear. The planetary gear assembly and drive further achieves a low frequency of tooth reconnection.
US07828685B2 Electromotive drives
A transmission having a plurality of tilting balls and opposing input and output discs provides an infinite number of speed combinations over its transmission ratio range. The transmission provides multiple powerpaths and can be combined with electrical components to provide motor/generator functionality, which reduces the overall size and complexity of the motor and transmission compared to when they are constructed separately. In one embodiment, rotatable components of a continuously variable transmission are coupled separately to an electrical rotor and to an electrical stator so that the rotor and stator rotate simultaneously in opposite directions relative to one another. In other embodiments, an electrical rotor is configured to transfer torque to or from a disc that is in contact with a plurality of speed adjusters, while an electrical stator is configured to transfer torque to a shaft that is operationally coupled to the speed adjusters via an idler.
US07828680B2 Cover for the shaft of a lacrosse stick
A sheath for a lacrosse stick includes a cap and a rolled sheath. The cap is mounted on the free end of a lacrosse stick and the sheath is unrolled onto the stick to the desired length or the entire length of the stick. The cap and sheath are preferably made from injection molded rubber, neoprene of other polymers that permit production in various thickness, colors and lengths. The elasticity of the material preferably gives it memory and durability. The diameter of the sheath is preferably smaller than the diameter of the lacrosse stick so that it stretches to a tight fit. After the sheath is unrolled to the desired length, excess material may be cut off, if desired.
US07828679B2 Toy for positioning a play implement
The present invention discloses a play implement positioning device including an implement support for holding a first play implement in a play position to be struck. The invention also discloses a mechanism for selectively, automatically placing multiple stored play implements onto the implement support after the first implement has been struck and dislodged from the implement support.
US07828678B1 Soccer goal for use on shared fields
A sports goal assembly having a goal frame defining an upright goalmouth on a shared soccer/football playing field is provided. The goal frame includes a spaced-apart, opposed pair of elongate base rails that each extend rearward of the goalmouth and along and parallel to an underlying surface of the playing field to support the goal assembly on the playing field. An elongate base crossbar interconnects the base rails and extends transversely therebetween. Each of the elongate base rails includes a front section adjacent the goalmouth, a rear section remote from the goalmouth, and an intermediate section. The base crossbar is connected to, and extends from, the intermediate sections of the base rails, and the rear sections of the base rails include counterbalancing weights to stabilize the goal assembly.
US07828677B2 Driving range golf tee
A molded plastic unitary driving range golf tee which has an outwardly extending flange at its base with a tubular member centrally disposed thereon and extending therefrom. The tubular member terminates at a rim and a plurality of discrete flexible fingers extend upwardly from the rim and terminate in distal ends which support a golf ball. The molded plastic tee is adapted to be received in an opening provided in a typical driving range mat with the discrete flexible fingers extending above the surface of the mat.
US07828675B2 Putter head
A putter-type club head (20) having a main body (25) and a removable aft member (30) is disclosed herein. The putter-type club head (20) has a main body (25) that is preferably composed of an aluminum alloy. The removable aft member (30) is preferably composed of stainless steel and preferably has a fang-like shape.
US07828664B2 Upholstery fabric tack strips and methods of making same
An upholstery tack strip includes a metal ribbon and a thermoplastic sleeve covering at least a portion of the ribbon. The sleeve includes at least one, and possibly a pair of, lengthwise removed strip section(s) so as to expose a corresponding lengthwise surface of the metal ribbon. The metal ribbon integrally includes nail sections which protrude outwardly from said tack strip. At least one, and preferably both, lateral edges of the metal ribbon are knurled or serrated so as to assist in anchoring the ribbon to the sleeve.
US07828656B2 Gaming method and apparatus utilizing secondary software applications
In a gaming method for facilitating game play via a gaming apparatus, the gaming apparatus comprising a controller and a first display unit, the controller communicatively coupled to the first display unit, a game software application may be executed, and value input data may be received. The first display unit may be caused to display a game image representative of one of the following games: poker, blackjack, slots, keno, or bingo. A secondary software application may be executed, and an icon associated with the secondary software application may be displayed simultaneous with the display of the game image, wherein a foreground of the game image is substantially unobstructed by the icon, and wherein the icon is substantially unobstructed by the foreground of the game image. Information may be conveyed using the secondary software application upon detecting an event, and a value payout associated with an outcome of the game may be determined.
US07828655B2 Application programming interface for geographic data in computer games
A computer game depicts or represents actual or imaginary geographic locales as part of the play scenarios of the games. The computer game uses a map database that contains data that represent geographic features, such as roads, in a locale. A game engine program presents a game play scenario to a user via a user interface of the game. An application programming interface program accepts requests for data from the game engine program, accesses data from the map database, and provides the data in a suitable format to the game engine program for use in presenting the game scenario to the user.
US07828650B2 Electronic delivery of gaming tickets
Systems and methods of generating electronic gaming tickets provide for receiving an asynchronous reply from an access device over a network. An electronic gaming ticket is sent toward the access device over the network based on the asynchronous reply. By providing asynchronous communication with the access device, a number of advantages are achieved.
US07828648B2 Single outcome game of chance with differing wagers varying among multiple paytables
Described is a method of playing a wagering game that comprises the player making multiple wagers to play a single-outcome game, the multiple wagers being made on multiple predetermined paytables for said game. One single-outcome game and at least two differing paytables for said game are offered to the player. The paytables may be for different game versions or for a single game version with differing risk levels. The payback percentage of each of the said differing paytables may vary according to the amount of the wager. The player makes one wager for each predetermined paytable to be utilized in the resolve of the wagers. Multiple same paytables, multiple differing paytables or combinations thereof may be wagered for the play of a single game having a single outcome. The said single outcome is then compared to each wagered predetermined paytable, and each wager is resolved according to that same wagered predetermined paytable.
US07828647B1 System and method for using time-sensitive tickets as player awards in gaming machines
Gaming machines, gaming systems, and methods for awarding time-sensitive tickets in a gaming environment are disclosed herein. According to one embodiment, a gaming machine includes a game display for presenting a game having one or more winning game outcomes. The gaming machine also includes one or more network interfaces that is in communication with a ticket database that provides time-sensitive tickets. The gaming machine also includes a game controller in communication with the game display and the network interfaces. The game controller awards one or more time-sensitive tickets in response to one or more triggering events.
US07828639B2 Method and system for monitoring the processing of items
A method for monitoring and tracking the processing of a plurality of meat items which originated from an animal, with the processing utilizing instructions, such as instructions from a customer. The method comprises the steps of registering one or more of an identification of one piece of meat from the plurality of meat items, an identification of a supplier of the one piece of meat, and an identification of the animal from which the one piece of meat originated; allocating the one piece of meat to one of a plurality of workstations; registering an identification of the workstation; processing the one piece of meat into a plurality of meat cuttings at the workstation utilizing the instructions; and further processing one or more of the plurality of meat cuttings, wherein traceability is established between the one or more of the plurality of meat cuttings and one or more of the one piece of meat, the supplier, and the animal from which the one piece of meat originated.
US07828638B2 Screw conveyor sections
A transport device having a screw conveyor for transporting products hanging on loops, in particular for transporting sausage products, the transport device includes a first screw conveyor section, a drive for the first screw conveyor section, wherein the drive torque is transferred to the screw conveyor section via an outer circumferential area of the first screw conveyor section, and further includes a first bearing assembly for the first screw conveyor section, wherein a second screw conveyor section that immediately adjoins the first screw conveyor section in the direction of transport is provided.
US07828636B2 Method and system for washing intestines
Methods, devices, and systems are provided for washing an animal intestine. The device may include one or more flushing arms connected to a rotating fluid tank. The rotating fluid tank provides the fluid to the flushing arms, which in turn provide the fluid to the animal intestine. The rotating fluid tank may be adapted to rotate about a substantially vertical axis and during such rotation moves the flushing arms through a number of working sections around the washing machine.
US07828626B2 Apparatus for conditioning processing pads
Embodiments of an apparatus for conditioning a processing pad are provided. In one embodiment, an apparatus for conditioning a processing pad includes a member having a bottom surface selectively maintained in a non-planar orientation and an abrasive disposed on the bottom surface of the member. The abrasive is configured for conditioning a processing pad. The member and abrasive have a profile that produces a non-planar processing pad surface.
US07828625B2 Method of supplying polishing liquid
The present invention relates to a method of supplying the polishing liquid by periodically interrupt the supply of the polishing liquid, thus avoid over-supply or wastage of the polishing liquid. Hence, the consumption of the polishing liquid can be decreased and the production cost can be lower.
US07828619B1 Method for preparing a nanostructured composite electrode through electrophoretic deposition and a product prepared thereby
A method for preparing a nanostructured composite electrode through electrophoretic deposition and a product prepared thereby are presented. A conductive material and an active material are suspended into a stable suspension in solution by ultrasonication. The conductive material includes functionalized carbon multi-walled nanotubes. The active material includes synthesized nanoparticles. A surface charge is applied to the active material by adding an electrolyte into the stable suspension. At least two electrodes are introduced into the stable suspension in opposing parallel orientation. A direct current electrical field is formed between the electrodes sufficient to cause conductive material and the active material formation thereupon.
US07828618B2 Super-thin OLED and method for manufacturing the same
A flat panel display includes a glass substrate, an organic light-emitting part, and a sealing part. The organic light-emitting part includes one or more organic light-emitting devices (OLED) formed on a surface of the glass substrate, which has a thickness of about 0.05 mm to about 0.5 mm. The sealing part seals the organic light-emitting part and protects it from damage during the manufacturing process. A method for manufacturing the flat panel display includes preparing a glass substrate of approximately 0.7 mm thickness or greater; forming a plurality of organic light-emitting devices on a surface of the glass substrate, wherein a group of one or more of the plurality of organic light-emitting devices constitutes an organic light-emitting part; sealing each organic light-emitting part; and etching the glass substrate to a predetermined thickness.
US07828617B2 Display apparatus
Provided is a display apparatus which can easily bond a drive panel (10) and a sealing panel (20) together. The drive panel (10) includes organic electroluminescence devices (10R), (10G) and (10B) on a substrate for drive (11) and extracts light from the side of the organic electroluminescence devices (10R), (10G) and (10B). The sealing panel (20) includes a color filter (22) on a substrate for sealing (21). The drive panel (10) and the sealing panel (20) are disposed to face each other, and the whole facing surfaces of the drive panel (10) and the sealing panel (20) are bonded together with an adhesive layer (30). The adhesive layer (30) is cured with at least heat, and is made of only one coating liquid or a combination of two or more coating liquids for curing. A temporary fixing portion (30A) is formed in an edge portion of the adhesive layer (30). The temporary fixing portion (30A) is made of, for example, an ultraviolet cure resin, and is formed so as to straddle between the sealing panel (20) and the drive panel to align their relative positions.
US07828605B1 Conducting mechanism for electronic device
A conducting mechanism includes a conducting member, an engaging member, a spring, and an insulting member. The spring connects the conducting member to the engaging member. The conducting member and the engaging member are slidably received in the insulating member, and a portion of the conducting member extends out of the insulating member.
US07828603B1 Electrical connector with crosstalk compensation
An electrical connector with crosstalk compensation includes a substrate (10), a first conducting group (G1), a second conducting group (G2), a first metal conducting wire (C1), and a second metal conducting wire (C2). A first conducting pair (S21) of the second conducting group (G2) is electrically connected to a first conducting pair (S11) of the first conducting group (G1) to form a first signal loop pair (L1). Furthermore, a second conducting pair (S22) of the second conducting group (G2) is electrically connected to a second conducting pair (S12) of the first conducting group (G1) to form a second signal loop pair (L2). The first metal conducting wire (C1) and the second metal conducting wire (C2) are electrically connected to a second conductor (R21) and a fourth conductor (R22) of the second conducting group (G2), respectively. Therefore, the first metal conducting wire (C1) and the second metal conducting wire (C2) are installed in parallel on the substrate (10) to obtain a compensation capacitance to reduce and even cancel a crosstalk noise induced between the first signal loop pair (L1) and the second signal loop pair (L2) when signals are sent through either of the two signal loop pairs (L1, L2).
US07828601B2 Data transmission connector system with free floating potential ring
The invention relates to a connector system for the transmission of high-frequency signals, in particular on twisted-pair lines, wherein the connector system has a socket for accommodating a plug, a terminal for the connection of an at least two-conductor cable and a printed circuit board with at least two electric signal conductors for connecting the socket to the terminal, wherein at least one conductor path section with free floating potential is provided in the area of the printed circuit board, which section is coupled capacitively and/or inductively to at least two different signal conductors.
US07828594B2 Coaxial connector with telescoping center conductor mechanism
A connector having a front end for attachment to a terminal and a back end for attachment to a coaxial cable includes a body, a post mounted within the body; and a contact assembly movably mounted within the post and body. The contact assembly includes a guide, a contact mounted to the guide, and preferably a clip mounted to the contact for making electrical and mechanical connection with the center conductor of the coaxial cable and a sabot. The contact assembly moves longitudinally toward the front end of the connector, such that the front end of the contact moves from a first position completely within the body to a second position proximate the connector interface, as the connector receives the coaxial cable. Preferably, the guide has an opening for the center conductor, which is viewable to a user during attachment until the center conductor enters the opening. The sabot moves with the contact assembly in a telescoping fashion enabling a greater distance of axial displacement. In addition, the contact assembly preferably contains a means to prevent the cable from being forced backward after installation.
US07828589B2 Cable assembly with improved grounding structure
A cable assembly includes an electrical connector and a cable. The electrical connector includes an insulative housing having a first wall and a second wall, and a plurality of contacts received in the housing and at least a shell attached on the first wall of the housing. The cable includes at least a grounding wire and a plurality of signal wires connected to their corresponding contacts received in the housing. The shell includes at least a grounding portion extending from the shell and located between the shell and the second wall of the housing. The grounding portion includes a strain relief and a crimping portion. The grounding wire includes an inner contact crimped by the crimping portion and an insulative jacket crimped by the strain relief.
US07828587B2 Power microconnector
Electrical connector for supplying electronic circuits with current. The connector comprises a flat metal bar and an insulating case comprising an open cavity extended by an inclined support covered by an end portion of the bar.
US07828585B2 Connector, plug connector and portable terminal equipment
A connector including a receptacle connector and a plug connector. The receptacle connector includes a receptacle insulator in which an accommodation recess is formed, and receptacle contacts mounted on a circuit board, supported by the receptacle insulator. The plug connector includes a plug insulator which is accommodated in the accommodation recess, plug contacts which are supported by the plug insulator, and cables, one ends of which are connected to the plug contacts. Each receptacle contact includes a bifurcated connecting portion. Each plug contact includes a contacting portion held between a bifurcated connecting portion. Engaging/holding grooves are formed on a portion of the plug insulator which faces a bottom surface of the accommodation recess. Each contacting portion is shaped into a flat plate which projects in an opposite direction to that of the other ends of the cables. The receptacle contacts are orientated in a common direction.
US07828584B2 Plug-type connector for printed circuit boards
The invention relates to a plug-type connector (1) for printed circuit boards, comprising a two-part housing and a number of contact elements (10), the contact elements (10) each having two connection sides the one connection side being in the form of a contact for connecting wires and the other connection side being in the form of a pluggable contact for a printed circuit board, the contact element (10) further having an interface, via which surge protection elements can be connected, the housing being formed with receptacles (20, 21), into which two-pole surge arresters (24) are inserted, the interfaces of the contact plane (10) protruding into the receptacles (20, 21) and each making contact with a first pole of the surge arresters (24), contact being made with the other pole of the surge arresters (24) by means of a ground element, in each case two receptacles (20, 21) being arranged in the transverse direction (Q) of the housing, which receptacles are separated by a common wall (22), the contacts for connecting the wires being arranged in a row which extends in the longitudinal direction, the interfaces of the contact elements being arranged in two rows which each extend in the longitudinal direction, the surge arresters (24) being aligned axially flush with one another in the transverse direction (Q).
US07828579B2 Latch locking type connector
A latch locking type connector has one elastic cantilever and an actuation plate respectively disposed with an inclined plate and a slide corresponding to each other. The upward movement of the inclined plate resulting from the sliding contact of the slide and the inclined plate raises a free end of the elastic cantilever to separate a connector casing from a lead frame. The elastic cantilever pushes and contacts in an opposite direction to return the actuation plate to its original place while allowing a free end of the elastic cantilever to return to its normal position to produce an expected latch locking function when the connector casing and the lead frame are connected to each other once again.
US07828577B2 Socket with improved load plate
A socket for electrically connecting an IC package to a printed circuit board, comprises an insulative housing, a stiffener surrounding the housing and having a front wall defining a hole; and a load plate pivotably mounted to the front wall of the stiffener. The load plate has a pivotal portion with a hook, the hook has a latching finger engaging with the latching hole of the stiffener, a protruding finger and a gap defined between the latching finger and the protruding finger. The protruding finger resists the stiffener when the load plate deflects on a top-to-bottom direction relative to the stiffener. The protruding finger also can engage with the stiffener to guide the load plate to rotate in a correct direction.
US07828575B2 Test and burn-in socket for integrated circuits (ICS)
Disclosed herein is a test and burn-in socket for integrated circuits. The socket includes a socket body (37). A lead guide (36) is provided under the socket body. A slide (35) is mounted to the socket body to move horizontally. A plurality of slide springs (39) is elastically supported between the slide and the socket body, thus allowing the slide to smoothly restore an original position thereof. A contact guide (31) is provided above the slide to guide positions of upper contact terminals of contacts. An IC guide (30) is provided above the contact guide to guide a position of an IC. A cover (21) is provided to move vertically from the socket body (37). A latch (29) presses the IC. The socket also includes the contacts (33).
US07828574B2 Edge connector for reverse insertion of daughter board
An edge connector assembly includes a PCB defining a first face, a second face opposite to the first face thereof and a notch therein, a daughter board defining a front mating portion and a rear retaining portion and an edge connector mounted in the notch of the PCB. The connector includes an insulating housing defining a longitudinal slot for receiving the front mating portion of the daughter board and a mounting face thereof to abut against the first face of the PCB, a plurality of contacts defining contacting portions extending into the slot. The daughter board is inserted into slot from the second face of the PCB in a slant direction and then pivots about the front mating portion and is retained in the notch.
US07828569B2 Receptacle with multiple contact sets for different connector types
A receptacle that is configured to receive connectors of different types. If a connector of one type is received into the receptacle, the connector contacts engage one set of receptacle contacts. If a connector of another type is received into the receptacle, the connector contacts engage another set of receptacle contacts, and so forth for potentially other connector types and other contact sets. A communication system may also control which PHY circuitry communicates with the receptacle depending on which connector type is plugged into the receptacle. The receptacle can include a connector detection mechanism configured to detect whether a connector of the first type or second type is inserted into the receptacle. Circuitry and pin design of the receptacle also depends on the first and second connector types.
US07828566B2 Electrical connector having an ejector for locking and ejecting a module
A card edge connector (100) for receiving a module (200) includes an elongated insulative housing (1) having a receiving slot (19) for receiving the module and at least one arm portion (10) positioned at one end of the insulative housing. The arm portion (10) has a pair of side walls (11) and a recess (12) located therebetween. Each side wall has a stopper (14) extending in the recess. A sets of terminals (2) are mounted on said insulative housing and extend into the receiving slot thereof. A latch (3) is adapted to be rotatably received in the recess (12). The latch includes an ejecting portion (33) for ejecting the module out of the receiving slot, a locking portion (34) for locking the module into the receiving slot and a pair of projections (31) formed on opposite sides thereof for cooperating with the stoppers (14). The projection (31) has a side surface (312) coated with a lubricant film (315) thereon for interfering engagement with the stopper (14) when the latch is rotated inwardly.
US07828565B2 Electrical connector assembly with pick up cap
An electrical connector assembly includes a socket body defining a receiving cavity, a pick up cap attached detachably onto the socket body and a movable fixing mechanism surrounding the socket body. The fixing mechanism includes a rotatable cover defining an open position and a close position and having two pressing portions extending towards the receiving cavity of the socket body. The pick up cap covers all terminals in the socket body and includes a planar body having concaved portions for receiving the corresponding pressing portions to prevent the pressing portions from interfering with top surface of the planar body of the pick up cap.
US07828559B2 Board-to board connector assembly
A board-to-board connector assembly includes a receptacle connector and a plug connector mated with each other. The receptacle connector has a receptacle housing, a plurality of first terminals disposed in the receptacle housing, and at least one first fixing member mounted to the receptacle housing and having a base portion. A top of the base portion is bent toward one side and then extends downward to form a propping portion defining a first fixing structure thereon. The plug connector has a plug housing, a plurality of second terminals disposed in the plug housing and contacting the corresponding first terminals electrically, and at least one second fixing member mounted to the plug housing and having a base board. At least one end of the base board extends downward to form a connecting portion defining a second fixing structure thereon which can be buckled with the first fixing structure.
US07828555B1 Power plug with a rotary body including a pivoting portion
A power plug connector for connecting with a wire includes a shell with a receiving cavity being opened through a rear end thereof, a pin assembly fastened in a front of the shell and stretching forward beyond the shell, and a rotating body including a pivoting portion rotatably pivoted in the receiving cavity of the shell. The rotating body defines a perforation penetrating through the pivoting portion. One end of the wire is passed through the perforation of the rotating body and then electrically connected with the pin assembly. The rotating body can rotate in the receiving cavity of the shell so that can avoid the wire twisting and fracturing in use and is further easy to arrange the wire in order. Therefore, it prolongs the use life of the power plug connector.
US07828552B2 Method and system for designing adaptive, diagnostic assessments
A method and system for administering an assessment to a student are disclosed. The expected weight of evidence may be calculated for each of one or more tasks based on a student model pertaining to a student. A task may be selected based on the calculated expected weights of evidence. The selected task may be administered to the student, and evidence may be collected regarding the selected task. The student model pertaining to the student may be updated based on the evidence. A determination of whether additional information is required to assess the student may be made. If additional information is required to assess the student, the above steps may be repeated. Otherwise, a proficiency status may be assigned to the student based on the student model.
US07828548B2 Reduction kiln
Disclosed is a process for reducing metallic oxide or sulfide materials in a rotary kiln and a rotary kiln for reducing such materials. The materials are heated in a reducing atmosphere as they travel along the axial length of the rotary kiln. The materials are discharged from the kiln at a discharge point in the kiln away from its lower material outlet end, wherein the temperature within the kiln at said discharge point is greater than the temperature at the lower material outlet end.
US07828546B2 Naturally aspirated fluidic control for diverting strong pressure waves
A pulse detonation device for dividing a pulse detonation shock wave into an primary and control portion to reduce the strength of a propagating shock wave and/or change its direction. The device contains a flow separator which directs a portion of the shock wave into itself, thus reducing the shock wave's strength. In one configuration, the control region converges in cross-sectional area so as to accelerate the flow in the control region, while the primary region diverges to slow the flow in the primary region. The flow in the control region is directed, at an angle, into the flow of the primary region to impede and/or redirect the flow of the primary region.
US07828542B2 Positioning device with bearing mechanism
A positioning device includes a first member and a second member. The first member defines an alignment axis and has a male portion. The second member is separable from the first member and defines a female portion for mating with the male portion along the alignment axis. A bearing mechanism is coupled to the female portion for reducing friction when the male and female portions mate and the bearing mechanism moves between first and second positions relative to at least one of the members. A resilient member is retained by the second member for resiliently supporting the bearing mechanism between the first and second positions. A retaining pin is coupled to the bearing mechanism and is retained between the second member and the resilient member. The retaining pin reacts against the resilient member as the bearing mechanism moves between the first and second positions.
US07828538B2 Method and apparatus for increasing an intrinsic viscosity of polyester
A method of increasing the intrinsic viscosity of polyester by means of solid state polymerization, wherein a polyester plastics melt is granulated and after granulation is conveyed into a thermal treatment container (13) for thermal treatment therein, the granules being produced slightly below their melting temperature and being fed into the thermal treatment container (13) immediately after granulation so as to utilize the residual heat in the granules, as well as an arrangement for increasing the intrinsic viscosity of polyester by means of solid state polymerization with a granulating and a thermal treatment unit, with an unheated, thermally insulated container (13) or a container (13) having wall heating means (15) being provided as the thermal treatment unit, which is directly connected to the granulating unit via a conveying device (11, 36, 37).
US07828532B2 Rotary vane machine
A rotary-vane machine, has a stationary tubular housing having a lubricated pump with an oil carter, and an oil-free section, with two pairs of ports through which a working medium enters or exits, a housing cover plate, a sun gear attached to a boss, a bearing and oil transferring member, a cover disc attachable to the end of the oil-free housing section, and a tubular rotor inside of which are fixedly attachable, two tapering vanes rotatable, together with the rotor, at a uniform speed. The machine has a first rotor end plate, attached to a drive shaft, a second rotor end plate attached to the rotor, a hollow oscillatable main shaft in bearings in the first and second end plates is concentric with the rotor, two substantially flat vanes fixedly attached to opposite sides of the hollow shaft define with, the hollow shaft, the tubular rotor, the tapering vanes and the first and second end plates, four chambers, a shaft rotatable in bearings mounted in the second end plate, and a connecting rod having a big end and a small end. The big and small ends are associated with the eccentrics and a rocker arm attached to the reduced main shaft end. Drive shaft rotation at uniform speed rotates the rotor at the same uniform speed, while oscillatory motion is superposed on the hollow shaft, whereby the chambers to successively vary between minimum and maximum volume.
US07828531B2 Vertical centrifugal pump assembly
A vertical centrifugal pump unit, in particular for wet installation in a closed container, including an intermediate pipe (17) which surrounds the shaft (3) of the pump unit and is arranged between the housing (11) of the centrifugal pump (12) and a bracket (5) which carries the electric motor (1) of the unit. The pump unit preferably is fastened in particular to a horizontal flat part (19) arranged beneath the flange (6) of the bracket (5), especially the cover of a container. Production is simplified and it is possible to readily adapt the intermediate pipe to different sizes by designing the intermediate pipe (17) without a flange or other enlargements on its end faces, and pressing the end faces against the bracket (5) and the pump housing (11) using screw connections (18, 20) distributed uniformly around the circumference. The bracket (5) and the flat part (19) arranged beneath the bracket are joined together by the screw connections (18, 20).
US07828530B2 Electric motor pump for swimming pool maintenance
The invention concerns a dual pump, comprising an electric motor (18) including a drive shaft, the shaft including, at each of its axial ends, a shaft output (21, 22), and two pump impellers, each shaft output driving a respective pump impeller, one first of the pump impellers (23) operating at low pressure and high flow rate, and the second of the pump impellers (30) operating at higher pressure and lower flow rate. The water pumped by the second pump impeller (30) is drawn proximate the outlet of the first pump impeller (23) and returns to the inlet of the second pump impeller. The drawing point is situated in a low pressure pump chamber, upstream of the low pressure outlet (16). The invention is applicable to swimming pool maintenance.
US07828521B2 Turbine module for a gas-turbine engine
A turbine module for a gas turbine engine includes at least an annular distributor and a turbine rotor inside a casing, where the annular distributor includes a plurality of elements in the form of a ring sector, of which a first part supports fixed blades positioned radially towards the turbine axis, and a second part forms a seal with the tips of the turbine rotor blades. The elements in the form of a ring sector are held inside the casing by attachment resources.
US07828518B2 Securing arrangement
A securing arrangement 32 for securing an actuating lever 20 to a spindle 14, for example a spindle 14 of a variable inlet guide vane 10 in a gas turbine engine, comprises a fastening formation 38 rotatably co-operable, in use, with a corresponding fastening formation 30 on the spindle 14. The securing arrangement 32 is rotatable relative to the spindle 14 to a securing position in which the respective fastening formations 30, 38 co-operate so that the securing arrangement 32 secures the actuating lever 20 to the spindle 14. The securing arrangement 32 includes anti-rotation means 42, preferably in the form of anti-rotation tabs 44, for preventing rotation of the securing arrangement 32 from the securing position.
US07828515B1 Multiple piece turbine airfoil
A turbine airfoil, such as a rotor blade or a stator vane, for a gas turbine engine, the airfoil formed as a shell and spar construction with a plurality of hook shaped struts each mounted within channels extending in a spanwise direction of the spar and the shell to allow for relative motion between the spar and shell in the airfoil chordwise direction while also fanning a seal between adjacent cooling channels. The struts provide the seal as well as prevent bulging of the shell from the spar due to the cooling air pressure. The hook struts have a hooked shaped end and a rounded shaped end in order to insert the struts into the spar.
US07828511B1 Axial tip turbine driven pump
An axial tip turbine driven pump in which a first fluid pumped by an inducer is driven by a second fluid that reacts with a turbine blade extending from a shroud on the inducer. The inducer includes a set of screw thread blades and a second set of partial blades that are covered by a shroud in the aft section of the inducer. A row of turbine blades extends from the shroud and into a manifold that forms the outer casing for the pump. The fluid flow through the manifold reacts with the turbine blades and drives the inducer to pump the fluid from the inlet and through guide vanes downstream from the inducer. The fluid passing through the turbine blades is collected in an outlet collector manifold and discharged into the fluid flowing through the guide vanes. The inducer with the turbine blades is rotatably supported within the housing formed by the guide vane support member and the manifold casing. The swirl flow direction of the turbine blades is opposite to that of the swirl flow in the inducer. The structure that rejoins the two fluids redirects the turbine blade flow into the same swirl direction as the inducer flow.
US07828505B2 Loading device for working machine
A lift arm having a plate-like structure that is capable of taking a large load is realized without increasing a plate thickness and at low cost. The structure with required strength and of low cost is realized by a simple construction and achieves, at the same time, both weight lightening of a loader and sufficient load bearing performance. In a loader (2) of a working machine (1), connection sections between a cross member (176) and lift arms (171) are each formed in a shape broadening from the cross member (176) toward a lift arm (171). Further, reinforcement plates are attached to outer surfaces of a front loader (2) so as to overlap the connection sections between the cross member (176) and the lift arms (171). Contact members (171b, 171b) are attached to lower side faces at the heads of the lift arms (171) to restrict the amount of rotation of a working device installed on the heads of the lift arms (171).
US07828501B2 Mounting mechanism
A mounting mechanism is provided for securing an article to a wall. The mounting mechanism can include an insertion member, a base member, and a tab member. The insertion member has at least one hub formed thereon. The base member has a flange and at least one arm depending from the flange. The flange defines an insertion hole, and the at least one arm includes a guide. When the insertion member is provided in the insertion hole, the guide receives the at least one hub. The guide directs movement of the insertion member relative to the base member. The insertion member and the base member include a ratchet mechanism for maintaining the position of the insertion member relative to the base member. The ratchet mechanism can include a pawl formed on the at least one hub and at least one indentation provided on the guide. The pawl can interact with the at least one indentation. The tab member can be removably coupled to the insertion member. The tab member can be used to articulate the insertion member from an insertion orientation to an installed orientation.
US07828498B2 Connection mechanism for large scale retaining wall blocks
A block assembly includes integral connection mechanisms specifically designed for incorporation into engineered retaining walls. These connection mechanisms specifically accommodate the use of reinforcing grids in the formation of a retaining wall which, when used, will stabilize the retaining wall and provide additional strength. The connection mechanism is formed prior to fabrication of the block itself, and thus can be integrally incorporated during casting/fabrication of the block itself. The connection mechanism defines a connection slot usable during retaining wall fabrication (by allowing easy connection to the reinforcing grid) while also accommodating holding and lifting of the block assembly. Due to the fabrication method, the configuration of the connection mechanisms inserted into the block can be uniquely designed to provide desired physical coupling once the concrete is hardened. This further allows the use of different materials and different structures to provide the desired strength and allow the use of optimal materials.
US07828496B1 Watertight joint seal for concrete structures
The invention is a watertight joint seal for precast concrete box modules used to form underground enclosures to control the discharge of water runoff from roads and parking areas. The modules become sections of a tunnel structure, and the joint seal of the invention is constructed by forming the end of the walls of each module with mating offset inside and outside edge surfaces that are joined by an intermediate surface, applying sealing strips to the inside and outside edge surfaces of one end wall, compressing the modules against each other, and injecting an expansive grout into the cavity formed by the sealing strips and the modules' end surfaces. After the grout cures under the pressure resulting from its own expansion, the joint is watertight and does not suffer from leakage through cracks caused by the creep and relaxation characteristics which generally occur in joints formed with conventional grout or only rubber gaskets.
US07828492B2 Vehicle barrier system
A security barrier system for use with a trafficable surface and a site requiring protection from advancing vehicles includes a composite bed system having a plurality of elevations and comprising a first layer beneath a second layer. The first layer includes a deformable material configured to collapse when subjected to vehicle loads, and the second layer includes a pedestrian cover surface over the deformable material that conceals the deformable material. The pedestrian cover surface is configured to support pedestrian traffic over the deformable material without permanently collapsing the deformable material and to collapse along with the first layer when subjected to vehicle loads. A structure beyond the bed system is provided to resist the impact of a vehicle that has traversed the bed system.
US07828487B2 Post-exposure baking apparatus and related method
A post-exposure baking apparatus comprising a supporting member, a heating member, and a cooling member is disclosed. A wafer is disposed on the supporting member and a photoresist layer is formed on the wafer. The heating member comprises electrical heating wires and is adapted to apply heat to the wafer to chemically amplify an acid generated in the photoresist layer through an exposure process using deep ultraviolet light. The cooling member is adapted to cool an outer edge of the wafer to suppress the amplification of the acid at the outer edge of the wafer.
US07828484B2 Radial antifriction bearing, particularly a single-row grooved antifriction bearing or angular contact antifriction bearing
The radial antifriction bearing has an outer bearing ring, an inner bearing ring and roller bodies, which are arranged between the bearing rings, are held at uniform distances from one another in the peripheral direction by a bearing cage. The roller bodies are discs that each have two parallelly arranged lateral surfaces which are symmetrically flattened from a spherical basic shape. In order to prevent edge stresses between the discs and the raceways, at least the raceway in the inner bearing ring, on its outer edge areas, transition into a logarithmically decreasing profile.
US07828476B2 Infrared inspection and reporting process
An infrared inspection and reporting process and system obtains inspection data on site via a portable computer. An actual temperature of a component derived from an infrared image and a temperature delta between the temperature of the component and the maximum temperature for the component is calculated to determine if there is a problem. A criticality level is assigned for each problem component from a plurality of criticality levels each having a predetermined range for the temperature delta. The criticality level provides an accurate and consistent assessment of component conditions. The inspection data is up linked to a home server from the portable computer and is made available to the customer via an interactive, on-line web application. The customer can interact with the inspection dating including an interactive prediction of energy savings if the problem component is repaired.
US07828474B2 Shot pump and variable-speed-type two-liquid metering and mixing apparatus
A shot pump including a cylinder standing upright and an inlet having a check valve which allows a paste-like transferred substance to only flow into the cylinder therethrough. The shot pump also includes an outlet having a check valve which allows the transferred substance to only flow out of the cylinder therethrough. Additionally, a piston is configured to vertically reciprocate in the cylinder, causing the transferred substance to be sucked from the inlet and then to be discharged from the outlet. The ratio of a clearance between a side face of the piston and an inner side face of the cylinder to an outside diameter of the piston is 1/50 to ½. The transferred substance is sucked from the inlet, is then caused to pass through the clearance between the side face of the piston and the inner side face of the cylinder, and is discharged from the outlet.
US07828472B2 Light guiding strip and backlight module and display using the same
A light guiding strip and a backlight module and display using the same are provided. The light guiding strip of the present invention includes a plurality of light reflecting surfaces and a plurality of light emergent surfaces. Each of the light reflecting surfaces has a light diffusion pattern. The light guiding strip of the present invention has the advantages of light weight, wide LED pitch, low cost, thickness and so on.
US07828469B2 Light source module of projector
A light source module adapted to a projecting device including a light bulb, a fan, and an air tunnel structure is provided. The fan is located by the light bulb for cooling the light bulb. The air tunnel structure is located respective to the location of the light bulb, for removing the heat generated by the light bulb. The air tunnel structure has a curved inner wall, a plurality of fins, and a tank. The curved inner wall is located inside the air tunnel structure respective to the location of the light bulb. The fins are formed on the curved inner wall for blocking the fragments generated by the explosion of the light bulb. The tank is located by a side of the curved inner wall for carrying the fragments clashing the fins.
US07828468B2 Louver assembly for a light fixture
A louver assembly is disclosed for use in an overhead lighting system. The louver assembly comprises a series of thin, lightweight stringers and blade ribs arranged perpendicular to one another such that the respective side surfaces of the respective stringers are positioned at an acute angle with respect to a ceiling plane and the reflective faces of the blade ribs are positioned substantially transverse with respect to the ceiling plane.
US07828466B2 Light-emitting device
A light-emitting device of a very simple configuration in which uniform LED light illumination can be obtained with a low light quantity loss, the device having a low production cost, improved emission characteristic and excellent cost efficiency and reliability. A transparent body is disposed in the vicinity of a LED, and a light-scattering layer that scatters the light of the LED is formed by coating on the light-illuminating surface of the transparent body through which the light of the LED passes. The light-scattering layer contains 2.5 parts by weight to 4 parts by weight of a filler and has a thickness of 5 μm to 20 μm.
US07828462B2 Imitation candle with simulated lighted wick using external light source
A decorative, imitation candle effectively simulates a lighted wick in a darkened environment by location of a light source at the tip of an imitation wick. The light source is provided by an LED located at the tip of the wick for direct viewing in order to obtain maximum brightness and high contrast to an observer in a darkened environment. The light source and its support structure are incorporated into the imitation wick so that they do not detract from the imitation candle's realism when the imitation candle is viewed from the side or from above under higher ambient lighting.
US07828456B2 Roadway luminaire and methods of use
A lighting apparatus having a base member and a directional member are shown and described. The base member includes a first surface having a plurality of reflective elements extending therefrom. The base member also including a plurality of openings arranged in a pattern. Each openings is configured to receive a respective light source. The directional member has a portion of a reflective surface positioned relative to at least one opening to reflect light radiating from a lighting source disposed within the opening towards a portion of at least one of the reflective elements extending from the base member.
US07828454B2 Machine tool comprising a protective cabinet and an illumination system
A machine tool having a protective cabinet and an illumination system comprising at least one discharge lamp installed in the interior space of the protective cabinet. The discharge lamp is formed as a flat lamp radiating over a large area with a uniform luminous intensity and disposed on a cabinet wall in order to obtain an enhanced illumination of the entire workspace of the machine as well as of the interior space of the protective cabinet.
US07828453B2 Light emitting device and lamp-cover structure containing luminescent material
An LED lamp cover structure containing luminescent material, its fabrication methods, and an LED package using the LED lamp cover are disclosed. The LED lamp cover is comprised of a first lens cap providing the outer surface of the lamp cover, a second lens cap providing the inner surface of the lamp cover, and an encapsulating layer sandwiched between the first and second lens caps. The lamp cover of the invention covering a color LED package such as blue color can provide white light output.
US07828452B2 Vehicle mirror support assembly with cast brace
A mirror support assembly for a motor vehicle comprising an upper support arm, an upper mounting element for mounting the upper support arms to the vehicle, a lower support arm, and a lower mounting element for mounting the lower support arm to the vehicle. A mirror head brace for uniting the upper and lower support arms includes a cast structural member made by pressure casting. The mirror head brace includes at least one longitudinal groove which determines a defined angular setting between the mirror head brace and the upper and lower support arms. The plurality of scorings functionally determine different angular settings relative to the mirror support arms of a mirror head 12 which is carried by mirror head brace.
US07828451B2 Deep shadow occulter
Methods and apparatus are disclosed for occulting light. The occulter shape suppresses diffraction at any given size or angle and is practical to build because it can be made binary to avoid scatter. Binary structures may be fully opaque or fully transmitting at specific points. The diffraction suppression is spectrally broad so that it may be used with incoherent white light. An occulter may also include substantially opaque inner portion and an at least partially transparent outer portion. Such occulters may be used on the ground to create a deep shadow in a short distance, or may be used in space to suppress starlight and reveal exoplanets.
US07828447B2 Projector with a removable color wheel
A projector includes a light-source unit, a color wheel, and a connecting portion. The light-source unit with a first support structure is configured for providing light beams. The color wheel includes a color filter, a rotating portion, a motor and a second support structure. The color filter is rotatable together with the rotating portion driven by the motor, which is fixed on the second support structure. The connecting portion is configured for connecting the first and second support structures together and aligning the light-source unit with the color wheel.
US07828440B2 Method of detecting glaucoma
A method of testing for an ocular disease in an eye includes measuring a condition of the eye to receive a first value, placing an instrument adjacent the surface of the eye, changing the pressure in the eye using the instrument after measuring the condition, measuring the condition of the eye, after changing the pressure, to receive a second value, and comparing the first value to the second value.
US07828439B2 System and method for measuring fixation disparity and proprioceptive misalignment of the visual system
In accordance with the invention there is disclosed a method for determining the amount of prism needed to be placed in spectacle lenses to correct ones fixation disparity and or proprioceptive misalignment, wherein target objects viewed by each eye will be perceived to be at optical infinity and the objects to be viewed by each eye are seen separately but also simultaneously, the method comprising: adding Base Out prism in a smooth and continuous manner until the target objects jump together, switch sides or are suppressed; decreasing Base Out prism and thereafter continuing to add Base In prism until the target objects return to their original position; and recording amount of prism needed to achieve the target objects returning to their original position.
US07828435B1 Method for designing an anterior curve of a contact lens
In accordance with the disclosure there is described herein a method of designing an anterior curve of a contact lens for the eye of a patient comprising the steps of providing a contact lens material having a posterior, a posterior curve having a predetermined asphericity, an anterior, an index of refraction and a center thickness; providing a geometry of a cornea, a distance power correction for the cornea and a near power correction for the cornea; determining a central distance power of the contact lens in air; calculating a central anterior radius of the contact lens using the posterior curve of the contact lens material, the index of refraction of the contact lens material, the center thickness of the contact lens material and the central distance power of the contact lens in air; calculating a center power of the contact lens on the eye of the patient using the index of refraction of tears at the posterior of the contact lens; and using an on-eye ray trace, said on-eye ray trace having a null lens compensation to create a targeted on-eye power profile.
US07828431B2 Junctionless ophthalmic lenses and methods for making same
Methods for producing a junctionless ophthalmic lens are provided. Additionally, ophthalmic lenses having junctionless, three dimensional surfaces, for example, asymmetrical anterior and/or posterior surfaces, as well as molding tools used in the production of such lenses, are also provided. The method generally include providing sample data points to define a surface contour, and interpolating between these data points using an algorithm to produce a simulated three dimensional surface. The simulated three dimensional surface is used in producing an ophthalmic lens, for example, in cast molding a contact lens.
US07828426B2 Inkjet printing system and fluorinated ink
An inkjet printing system, comprising an inkjet printer and an ink composition comprising: (a) water; (b) dispersed pigment particles; (c) a humectant; and (d) a fluorinated polyurethane additive which is different from any pigment polymeric dispersant in the ink, the additive having a weight average molecular weight of at least 10,000 daltons.
US07828422B2 Liquid container
A liquid container contains a liquid therein and is detachably mountable to a liquid ejection device. The liquid container has a liquid lead-out port for supplying said liquid to the outside, the liquid lead-out port being disposed in a connection surface, and an abutment surface for opening a channel valve by abutting against part of said channel valve provided in said liquid ejection device, the abutment surface being disposed in said connection surface.
US07828420B2 Continuous ink jet printer with modified actuator activation waveform
A drop generator is operated to form large-volume and small-volume droplets by providing a droplet generator having a nozzle and an adjustable stimulation device; supplying liquid to the droplet generator such that a stream of diameter D emanates from the nozzle; activating the stimulation device to produce a first set of perturbations on the liquid stream, the perturbations having a period x such as to cause the liquid stream to form into small-volume droplets; selectively adjusting the stimulation device to produce a second set of perturbations on the liquid stream, the second set of perturbations having a period Nx such as to cause a segment of the liquid stream to form into a large-volume droplet, whereby the large-volume droplet is N times the volume of the small-volume droplets; and further adjusting the stimulation device to produce a third set of perturbations on the liquid stream during the period Nx.
US07828417B2 Microfluidic device and a fluid ejection device incorporating the same
A microfluidic device includes first and second glass substrates bonded together. The first glass substrate has first and second opposed surfaces. A die pocket is formed in the first opposed surface, and a through slot extends from the die pocket to the second opposed surface. The second glass substrate is bonded to the second opposed surface of the first glass substrate whereby an outlet of a channel formed in the second glass substrate substantially aligns with the through slot. The channel of the second glass substrate has an inlet that is larger than the outlet.
US07828415B2 Ink cartridge holding device
An ink cartridge holding device for holding an ink cartridge includes a holder holding the ink cartridge and having an opening so as to allow the ink cartridge to be inserted thereinto and withdrawn therefrom through the opening, a door which is attached to the holder and is pivotable between (a) an open position at which the opening is uncovered for permitting insertion and withdrawal of the ink cartridge through the opening into and from the holder and (b) a closed position at which the opening is covered for inhibiting the insertion and withdrawal of the ink cartridge through the opening, a locking member which is attached to the door for locking the door at the closed position, and an interference preventing portion which is provided at the door for preventing an interference of the locking member with the withdrawal of the ink cartridge when the door is placed at the open position.
US07828413B2 Positioning apparatus and printer using the same
A positioning apparatus and a printer using the same are provided. The positioning apparatus includes a slide rod, a carrying base, and a light detecting module. The slide rod has a plurality of positioning grooves on one side surface thereof, and the carrying base is slidingly disposed on the slide rod. The light detecting module is integrated with the carrying base and corresponds to the side surface of the slide rod having the positioning grooves. The light detecting module determines a relative position of the light detecting module with respect to the slide rod according to the intensity change of a reflection light reflected by the slide rod.
US07828410B2 Ink-jet recording apparatus
An ink-jet recording apparatus includes a brush, a suction unit, and a wiper. The brush brushes off matters adhering to an ink ejection face of an ink-jet head. The suction unit sucks the matters brushed off by the brush. The wiper has a contact face to be brought into contact with the ink ejection face to remove matters adhering to the ink ejection face. A brush moving mechanism is provided for moving the brush in parallel with the ink ejection face. A wiper moving mechanism is provided for moving the wiper in parallel with the ink ejection face. The wiper moving mechanism can move the wiper with bringing the contact face of the wiper into contact with the ink ejection face. A controller of the ink-jet recording apparatus controls the brush, the suction unit, and the wiper.
US07828406B2 Print head error checking apparatus and method
Provided are a print head error checking apparatus and method in which the residual oscillation of a piezoelectric element corresponding to each nozzle of a print head is sensed, the sensed residual oscillation of each piezoelectric element and a predetermined residual oscillation of the piezoelectric element are compared to each other, and whether a print head normally operates is checked in consideration of the results of the comparisons.
US07828404B2 Ink jet printer, method of controlling an ink jet printer, and computer program product for an ink jet printer
A printer is provided with an ink jet head and a controller. The ink jet head prints on a print medium by discharging ink. The ink jet head comprises a plurality of units. Each unit comprises a nozzle for discharging ink, a pressure chamber communicating with the nozzle, and a piezoelectric element facing the pressure chamber. The piezoelectric elements form at least two element lines. Each element line is formed by at least two piezoelectric elements aligned in a first direction. Each element line is aligned in a sec direction which is different from the first direction. The controller controls the ink jet head to print on the print medium by changing voltage applied to each piezoelectric element of the ink jet head. The controller controls timings at which the controller changes voltage applied to each piezoelectric element by the element line. It is preferred that a timing at which the controller changes voltage applied to one of the two adjacent element lines is different from a timing at which the controller changes voltage applied to the other of the two adjacent element lines.
US07828403B2 Printer control system and method for changing print mask height
A system and a method for improving the quality of prints using a print mask for a printer with at least one printhead with a plurality of dot forming elements arranged in dot forming element sections, and at least one of the masks are altered so that mask data corresponding to at least one complementary set of dot forming elements is activated or deactivated in response to the paper location and the dot forming element section is shifted as the printhead passes a transition position. As the mask size is reduced, for example, the mask contents are shifted to one end of the printhead. This remapping of the mask within the head allows the page advance distance to be changed to the new page advance distance only once.
US07828400B2 Image forming apparatus having position detection mechanism
In an image forming apparatus having a recording head including a plurality of nozzle arrays for ejecting each ink droplet per color for plural colors respectively onto a transported recording medium, a positioning mechanism of the image forming apparatus having a detection mechanism for preventing a printing quality on a recording medium from degrading by comprising a transport mechanism for transporting in order to form an image on the recording medium, and a carriage placed on an opposite positions of the transport mechanism and a belt platen; placing a sensor for detecting a relative inclination between the transport direction and the recording head; detecting and calculating an inclination of the transport direction vis-à-vis the recording head, and controlling the relative inclination based on the calculation result.
US07828395B2 Regenerative brake system and hydraulic pump/motor for use therein
A regenerative brake system and a variable displacement pump/motor for use therein. Each cylinder of the pump/motor having a main piston and a second piston between which is defined a space for hydraulic fluid, and a resilient element acting on the second piston to bias it toward the main piston. Variable displacement is achieved by controlling a volume of pressurized fluid that is injected and exhausted between the main and second pistons. Brake, drive and neutral modes of operation of the pump/motor are achieved by controlling the timing (relative to a drive shaft phase) of the injection and exhaust of the fluid. Regeneration is achieved by storing pressurized fluid generated by the pump/motor in an accumulator in brake mode and using the stored pressurized fluid to power the pump/motor in drive mode.
US07828393B2 Continuous vibratory milling machine
A vibratory milling machine has a vibratory housing confined to substantially linear reciprocating motion relative to a base, causing a tool carried by the housing to impact a mineral formation or other work piece substantially in a primary milling direction. The vibratory motion may be generated by two or more eccentrically-weighted rotors rotated by a common drive mechanism. The rotors may be arranged in pairs with the rotors of each pair rotating in opposite directions about parallel axes so that lateral oscillations cancel and longitudinal vibrations in the milling direction reinforce one another. In one embodiment, a hydrostatic fluid bearing is provided between the outer surface of each rotor and the housing.
US07828391B2 Seat belt device
The seat belt system includes a locking device for locking the retractor having a sensor-weight type acceleration sensor for activating the locking device, a posture controller for controlling a posture of a sensor weight of the sensor-weight type acceleration sensor, an angle detection device for detecting a rotation angle of a backrest, and an interlocking member for allowing the angle detection device to interlock with the posture controller. The angle detection device allows the interlocking member to rotate in accordance with the reclining angle of the backrest. The posture controller F is controlled by means of the rotation of the interlocking member 11 so as to keep the sensor-weight type acceleration sensor horizontal when the reclining angle is within a range where a passenger wears the seat belt and not to interlock with the angle detection device K when the reclining angle is outside of the range.
US07828390B2 Vehicle seat armrest assembly
A vehicle armrest assembly (20) includes an armrest (22), a ratchet mechanism (24) having a linear ratchet plate (36) that cooperates with a pawl locking assembly (38) to permit vertical adjustment of the armrest. An upper armrest portion (100) is mounted on an armrest housing (96) by a track (102) for adjustable movement. An adjuster (114) of the armrest permits pivotal adjustment of the armrest as well as pivoting to a nonuse position.
US07828387B2 Seat back structure of upside-recessed-and-headrest-storage type of seat
A headrest storage recession of seat back in an upside-recessed-and-headrest-storage type of seat has, provided at the backward side thereof, an integral combination of a cover element and an upward extension of a back board disposed behind the seat back. Namely, the cover element is connected continuously with the back board upward extension, without any connection line therebetween. A thin hinge portion is defined in boundary between those cover element and upward extension, and the cover element is folded relative to such thin hinge portion and securely attached to the upward extension, thereby constituting a backward wall of the headrest storage recession.
US07828385B2 Articulation mechanism with pivoting locking elements for a vehicle seat and a seat comprising such a mechanism
A articulation mechanism for a motor vehicle seat is disclosed. The mechanism may include a first end-plate, a second end-plate mounted so as to pivot relative to the first end-plate about a main axis of rotation, locking elements comprising a first locking element and a second locking element that can be moved between an active position and an inactive position, a cam that can be moved between a locked position in which it holds the locking elements in the active position and an unlocked position in which it holds the second locking element in the inactive position, guide elements capable of guiding in rotation each of the locking elements, and a bearing surface preventing the first locking element, but not the second locking element, from being in the active position in a range of angular tilting positions.
US07828382B2 Vehicle seat having an operation lever arrangement structure
The present invention relates to an operation lever arrangement structure of a vehicle seat. The seat is provided with a tilt down operation lever and a walk-in operation lever. These operation levers are disposed on a side surface portion of a shoulder portion of a seat back, so as to be in a condition in which the operation levers are laterally aligned with each other along a widthwise direction of the seat back, and are rotatably supported by a rotational shaft positioned parallel to a connection shaft so as to be rotated in the same direction as a rotating direction of the seat back. When the operation levers are rotated in a forwardly tilting direction of the seat back, the seat back can be tilted down forwardly. An end portion as an operating portion of the walk-in operation lever disposed on an inner side is shaped to have an extended portion that is extended to an upper surface position of the tilt down operation lever disposed on an outer side.
US07828375B2 Outer sliding sunroof apparatus
An outer sliding sunroof apparatus having a roof panel attached to an opening of a fixed roof of a vehicle, a drive device for opening and closing the roof panel, and a control unit for controlling the drive device. The apparatus further includes a load detector for detecting load applied to the drive device when the roof panel in a closed state is tilted up and moved toward a rear of the vehicle. When the load detector detects the load not less than a predetermined amount of load, the control unit is configured to move the roof panel in the closing direction.
US07828370B2 Vehicle body structure
A vehicle body structure in which the rigidity of a flat floor panel is increased by increasing the rigidity of intersecting portions between a cross member and floor frames. A plurality of floor frames extending in the longitudinal direction of a vehicle body are aligned in straight rows in the longitudinal direction on either sides of a cross member extending in the vehicle width direction. Terminal ends of the plurality of floor frames are positioned in proximity to the cross member. The intersecting portions between the floor frames and the cross member are joined together by T-shaped connecting members in order to increase rigidity.
US07828368B2 Vehicle underbody fairing
A vehicle underbody fairing apparatus for reducing aerodynamic drag caused by a vehicle wheel assembly, by reducing the size of a recirculation zone formed under the vehicle body immediately downstream of the vehicle wheel assembly. The fairing body has a tapered aerodynamic surface that extends from a front end to a rear end of the fairing body with a substantially U-shaped cross-section that tapers in both height and width. Fasteners or other mounting devices secure the fairing body to an underside surface of the vehicle body, so that the front end is immediately downstream of the vehicle wheel assembly and a bottom section of the tapered aerodynamic surface rises towards the underside surface as it extends in a downstream direction.
US07828365B2 Window arrangement for a motor vehicle
The present invention relates to a window arrangement for a motor vehicle, comprising a window pane and a trim element arranged on each side of the window pane. In order to improve the conventional window arrangement of the generic type to the effect that mounting can be made easier while the appearance is improved visually and esthetically, the invention provides that the trim elements and the window pane are connected to one another in a materially joined and/or frictionally locking fashion.
US07828364B2 Durable soft-top vehicle cover
A durable soft-top cover used to cover the passenger compartment of a vehicle. The durable soft-top cover includes a rigid member that prevents the annoying and turbulent flapping of the soft-top at high rates of speed when the vehicle velocity and wind speed is increased. The durable soft-top cover is reinforced with rigid members that support the canvas-like material of the soft-top. The rigid members are disposed adjacent to and/or within a material making up the durable soft-top. The durable soft-top may be portably rolled and/or folded and compactly stored. The rigid construction may be composed of at least one or more rigid member to provide the rigidity to the durable soft-top.
US07828361B1 Tonneau cover
A tonneau cover and a method of operating a tonneau cover that covers a cargo box on a pickup. The tonneau cover is positionable in a closed configuration, a rolled-up configuration and a front access configuration. The method includes rolling up the tonneau cover to uncover a first part of the cargo box. The method also includes pivoting a portion of the tonneau cover to uncover a second part of the cargo box.
US07828360B2 Modular and detachable fairing for a motorcycle
A method and apparatus for providing a modular fairing configured to attach to a front portion of a motorcycle. The modular fairing 110, 300 includes a fairing frame member 120, 301, multiple coupling portions and at least one flexible fairing cover portion 150, 304. The fairing frame member may include multiple support members 121, 302 operable to be removably coupled to each other to form the fairing frame member. The multiple coupling portions extend from the fairing frame member and are configured to removably couple the frame member to the front portion of the motorcycle. The at least one flexible fairing cover portion includes a face portion and an attachment portion and is operable to be removably attached to and at least partially cover the fairing frame member. With this arrangement, the fairing frame member is detachable from the front portion of the motorcycle and operable to be folded or reconfigured 310 into a smaller configuration 312 for storing.
US07828359B2 Detachable split windshield
The current invention is a split windshield which can be stored on a vehicle or deployed into a single windshield to provide protection for a rider on the vehicle. The windshield includes an upper and lower portion and also includes an upper and lower frame attached to the upper and lower portion of the windshield. There are mounts for attaching the windshield to a vehicle.
US07828357B2 Welding arrangement for vehicle body panels
An aluminum roof outer panel (2) is spot welded to a roof side rail (3) consisting of galvanized steel sheet. The outer panel (4) of the roof side rail is made of galvannealed steel sheet that has a favorable property but cannot be favorably welded to the aluminum roof outer panel, but the inner panel (5, 6) of the roof side rail is made of non-galvannealed steel sheet that can be favorably welded to the aluminum roof outer panel. Flanges of the outer panel (4) and inner panel (5, 6) overlap each other, and the flange of the outer panel is provided with a plurality of notches (11) along an edge of the outer panel. A corresponding flange of the roof outer panel is welded to the parts of the inner panel exposed by the notches of the outer panel.
US07828356B2 Cargo management system
A cargo bed management system including a storage system composed of a receptacle integrated into a sidewall of a bed of a motor vehicle and a dividing system that divides or extends a bed of the motor vehicle. The dividing system includes a main panel having a length approximately equal to a width of the bed, and a pair of side panels hingedly connected to the main panel so that the side panels may rotate relative to the main panel from a stowed position where the side panels are integral with the main panel to an extended position where the side panels extend outward from the main panel. At least one bumper is affixed to an end of each of the side panels that are hingedly connected to the main panel such that the bumper increases a length of the main panel when said the panels are in the stowed position. The bumpers compress to secure the main panel and the side panels to the bed.
US07828351B2 Manipulator robot tools with ramps bearing equipment items for gripping objects
A manipulator robot for handling objects and in particular bottles. The manipulator robot includes a body whereon are fitted equipment items for gripping the bottles and the lower part of the body includes slide-shaped devices connecting the body and elongated support members whereon is arranged the equipment items. Fast fixing devices are also interposed between the body and each elongated support member to facilitate changing the elongated support members. The elongated support members may include all sorts of equipment items such as pneumatic bell-shaped gripping heads or handling suckers and/or claw systems for handling cartons.
US07828345B2 Shipping container security system including RF door alarm module
The system described here is a shipping container security system which includes an RF data communications device; and an RF device mounted on an interior surface of a door of the shipping container and configured to form a short-range communications link with the radio communication component inside the shipping container via the antenna mounted on the exterior of the shipping container when the RF device and the radio communication component are within radio communications range. The RF device is mounted on the interior surface of the door such that, the RF device and the radio communication component are within radio communications range when the door is closed, and the RF device and the radio communication component are outside of radio communications range when the door is opened, whereby the opening and closing of the door of the shipping container is determinable.
US07828343B2 Reusable locking body, of bolt-type seal lock, having open-ended passageway
The system described here is a bolt-type seal lock which includes a bolt, having a shaft with proximal and distal portions and a head that is wider than the distal portion of the shaft and located at the proximal portion of the shaft; and a locking body having a passageway therethrough with first and second open ends on opposite sides of the locking body. The locking body is configured to receive and retain the shaft in locking engagement after the shaft has been inserted a predetermined extent into the first open end of the passageway, at which point the shaft cannot be withdrawn from the first open end of the passageway, and to permit passage of the distal portion of the shaft through and out of the second open end of the passageway after separation of the head and the distal portion of the shaft.
US07828339B2 Banded flexible pipe coupling
A coupling assembly is disclosed for joining pipe elements to one another end-to-end. First and second rings are attached to an end of each pipe element. Each ring has an outwardly facing surface with a groove which receives a sealing member. A band is positioned in overlying relation surrounding the rings when the pipe ends are arranged in end-to-end relationship. The band has an inwardly facing surface engaged with the sealing members. The band also has oppositely disposed end faces. End plates are attached to each end face. The end plates project radially inwardly in overlapping engagement with the rings to retain the pipe elements in end-to-end relation within the band.
US07828337B2 Threaded connection with wedge segments
A threaded connection includes a pin member having a pin thread having a pin load flank and a pin stab flank. The threaded connection includes a box member having a box thread having a box load flank and a box stab flank. The pin thread includes a first wedge segment on the pin stab flank and the box thread includes a second wedge segment on the box stab flank. Upon make-up of the pin member with the box member, a contact stress results from engagement of the first wedge segment with the second wedge segment.
US07828334B2 Joint part for resin fuel tank
A joint part including a welding portion with a rim of an opening of a fuel resin tank as well as a high barrier property on its interface. The joint part has a multi-layer structure including a barrier layer and at least one of an inner layer and an outer layer coaxially laminated on an inner periphery and/or an outer periphery of the barrier layer, respectively, wherein the barrier layer is formed by a compound material composed of one or more of fuel permeation-resistant resin, such as ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer, polyamide polyester or liquid crystal polymer, and polyethylene, while the inner layer and the outer layer are composed of high-density polyethylene or modified high-density polyethylene.
US07828332B2 Seat belt tensioner
A seat belt tensioner includes a guide, which has a pair of opposing plates connected by a connector, a wire, a first end of which extends upward to be connected to a seat belt, a central portion of which is curved to extend around the connector, and a retracting mechanism, which is connected to the second end of the wire and is operated by an external signal in an emergency. Here, the connector is integrally formed with at least one of the plates. Thus, the seat belt tensioner enables structural simplification, easy assembly, and a reduction in the number of parts.
US07828325B2 Air-bag and a method of controlling pressure within an air-bag
An air-bag (1) is provided with a vent aperture (2). A membrane (3) extends across the vent aperture, the membrane defining a smaller aperture (4) than the vent aperture (2). The periphery of the aperture is defined by a thickened part of the membrane. The membrane is formed of an elastic material such as a silicone rubber material. When a very high pressure exists in the air-bag the vent becomes deformed, thus increasing the size of the aperture defined by the membrane, permitting a relatively large flow of air from the air-bag to reduce the pressure within the air-bag.
US07828324B2 Gas generator, in particular for a vehicle occupant restraint system, and method of activating a vehicle occupant restraint system
A gas generator, in particular for a vehicle occupant restraint system, has a pyrotechnical propellant (16), a combustion chamber (12) filled with the pyrotechnical propellant (16), an igniter (14) associated with the combustion chamber (12), a pressure chamber (18), filled with compressed gas, which is adjacent to the combustion chamber (12) and has a first opening (22) remote from the combustion chamber (12) closed by a first diaphragm (26), the diaphragm (26) being destroyed upon activation of the igniter (14), and a second pressure chamber (28) which is filled with compressed gas and has a second opening (34) closed by a second diaphragm (36). The second diaphragm (36) is likewise destroyed upon activation of the igniter (14), and the openings (22, 34) and the gas volumes of the pressure chambers (18, 28) are adapted so that compressed gas flows out from the second pressure chamber (28) for a longer period than compressed gas from the first pressure chamber (18) to increase a gas supply time of the gas generator (10). Further, a method of activating a vehicle occupant restraint system is described.
US07828323B1 Air bag deployment chute and method
An integrated air bag support structure that includes a support base for attachment to the rear side of a substrate. The support base is configured to surround a door support panel and both are configured for attachment to the rear side of a substrate in an area that is pre-weakened to define an air bag deployment door in a vehicle instrument panel or a steering wheel air bag module. The upper surfaces of the support base and door support panel are attached to the rear surface of the substrate, and a test tab extends from the base that is attached to the rear surface of the substrate in the same manner as the support base and the door support panel. The test tab has an unattached extension portion for the purpose of gripping and pulling to test the integrity of the attachment without affecting the attachment of the support panel.
US07828320B2 Knee protecting airbag device
In a knee protecting airbag device of the present invention, in the lower area inside a column cover, a case housing an airbag is attached to a steering column. The steering column includes a movable member for moving toward the front side of a vehicle along the axial direction of the column at the time when an impact on the front of the vehicle acts, and an unmoving stationary member, so that the column can absorb the impact when the movable member moves. The case is attached to such an area of the movable member that the case hits the stationary member when the moving member moves and absorbs impact, and the case can be deformed before or at the time of hitting the stationary member so that the moving stroke of the movable member is preserved when it moves.
US07828319B2 Airbag for pedestrian and airbag apparatus for pedestrian
An airbag is disclosed, in which at least a part of the inside thereof is partitioned into cells. In one form, an airbag apparatus for a pedestrian includes a case for housing a folded airbag, an inflator for inflating the airbag, and a lid that closes an opening of a hood, the opening allowing the airbag to pass through. The inside of the airbag is partitioned by linear stitched portions and. A gas blowing portion of the inflator is disposed to correspond to the stitched portion.
US07828315B2 Adjustable attachment apparatus for a footpeg assembly
An adjustable attachment apparatus for adjusting the position of a footpeg of a motorcycle relative to a frame of the motorcycle includes a primary adjuster, a secondary adjuster and a tertiary adjuster. The primary adjuster and the secondary adjuster adjust the footpeg in a first direction. The tertiary adjuster is spaced apart from the primary adjuster and the secondary adjuster, and adjusts the footpeg in a second direction that is different than the first direction. The second direction has a vector component that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The second direction can includes a first vector component that is substantially similar to the first direction and a second vector component that is substantially perpendicular to the first direction. The adjustable attachment apparatus can also include a footpeg positioner. The primary adjuster can include a plurality of sets of at least two attachment holes. Further, the footpeg positioner can be secured to at least one set of attachment holes. Movement of the footpeg positioner relative to the plurality of sets of attachment holes moves the footpeg along the first direction. The secondary adjuster can include a slot within which the footpeg is adapted to slidably move. A distance between adjacent sets of attachment holes is not greater than a distance that the footpeg slidably moves within the slot.
US07828313B1 Adjustable bicycle seat
An adjustable bicycle seat which is supported on a seat tube. The seat is vertically adjustable and held in place by a clamp. A spring is located within the tubular seat frame. The lower end of the spring is supported within the tubular seat frame. A seat tube clamp is positioned about the tubular seat frame which adjustably holds the seat tube at a desired height. Means are provided for limiting the upward movement of the seat to retain the seat tube within the tubular seat frame.
US07828312B1 Folding bicycle
A folding bicycle includes: a front body having a front frame and a front wheel pivotally coupled to the front frame; a rear body having a rear frame axially coupled to and freely separable from the front frame and a rear wheel pivotally coupled to the rear frame; a folding mechanism provided between the front frame and the rear frame and configured for connection thereof; and a fastening mechanism for fastening the folding mechanism to at least one of the front frame and the rear frame so as for the front frame and the rear frame to be coupled together axially, firmly, and integrally, and allowing the folding mechanism to be received in at least one of the front frame and the rear frame.
US07828306B2 Skateboard truck with an offset axle
A skateboard truck with an offset axle is described. The skateboard truck includes a base plate and a kingpin attached with the base plate. A hanger is also attached with the base plate by the kingpin. The hanger includes an axle pin cast therein. The axle pin has a center axis and an arched portion and is positioned through the hanger such that the center axis of the axle pin passes through the kingpin, with the arched portion passing around the kingpin, thereby offsetting the axle pin and providing additional strength to the skateboard truck.
US07828304B2 Pneumatic vehicle jacking system
The present invention is an apparatus or device for jacking an individual axle of a truck or a truck trailer having an air line. The device includes a valve in fluid communication with the air line, a first air bag in fluid communication with the valve, and a second air bag in fluid communication with the first air bag.
US07828299B2 Fluid-activated shaft seal
Systems and methods associated with a fluid-activated shaft seal are provided. The systems, which feature multiple components, include a support component defining an exterior surface, a carrier component including an interior surface to slideably engage the exterior surface of the support component, and a seal disposed relative to the carrier component. The seal includes a lip portion and a fluid-responsive gel material that expands when exposed to a fluid to urge the lip portion towards or into contact with a shaft. The gel material contracts in the absence of the fluid to form or increase the size of a gap between the shaft and the lip portion. Methods of assembling and installing such a system are also described.
US07828294B2 Gaming system having a dice-based game with a plurality of wager areas
A gaming system and method involving a dice game. The gaming system displays a plurality of wager areas. Each wager area is associated with a wager area value. The gaming system indicates a plurality of different reward ratios associated with the wager areas. One or more of the wager areas are selectable by the player for wagering. A plurality of dice are simulated as rolled. If the sum of the stopped dice is equal to the value of any of the wagered upon areas, the gaming system provides an award. If a bonus condition is satisfied, the gaming system provides a bonus outcome.
US07828290B2 ADU transport roller driving device, image forming apparatus, ADU transport roller driving method
An ADU transport roller driving device, an image forming apparatus and an ADU transport roller driving method, in which a phenomenon of a warp does not occur on a succeeding sheet, are provided. There are included one drive motor that drives plural transport rollers to transport sheets in an ADU, a first one-way clutch that transmits only rotation force of the drive motor in a forward direction to an entrance side transport roller disposed at an ADU entrance side in a sheet transport direction among the plural transport rollers, a second one-way clutch that transmits only rotation force of the drive motor in a reverse direction of an opposite direction to the forward direction to an exit side transport roller disposed at an ADU exit side in the sheet transport direction among the plural transport rollers, and an electromagnetic clutch capable of transmitting only the rotation force of the drive motor in the forward direction to the exit side transport roller.
US07828287B2 Printer star wheel
A printer includes a housing, one or more print cartridges, and a positioning system configured to position print media for printing by the one or more print cartridges. The positioning system including a rotatable star wheel for translating the print media relative to the housing, the star wheel including a plurality of teeth disposed around an outer perimeter of the star wheel. At least the tips of the star wheel teeth are formed from plastic.
US07828285B2 Sheet media input system
The present invention provides a removable input tray to be used in an image forming device, such as a printer. The input tray includes a front wall with a sloped surface for sheet separation, an opening in the front wall, and a retractor pivotally mounted in the opening. The retractor is movable between a stopping position and a retracted position, the stopping position provides a stop to the leading edge of a stack of media sheets when the stack is being inserted into the input tray, and the retracted position is triggered when the input tray is fully inserted into the image forming device.
US07828280B2 Paper feeding apparatus and image forming apparatus having the same
A paper feeding apparatus capable of preventing noises generated when picking up and transferring paper, and an image forming apparatus having the same. The paper feeding apparatus according to the present invention comprises a pickup unit, which is disposed upstream of a paper cassette relative to the direction in which the uppermost sheet of paper loaded in the paper cassette moves, to pick up the uppermost sheet of paper, and a lifting unit which lifts the sheet of paper vertically to reduce friction between the paper and the paper beneath it when the pickup unit picks up the sheets of paper.
US07828277B2 Sheet storing device storing sheets upright, post-processing apparatus equipped with the device and image forming system equipped with the apparatus
A sheet storing device that has a conveyance device that holds a folded sheet to convey and a sheet storing section on which a sheet falling after being released from holding is placed, and allows a position of holding lower end position of the aforesaid conveyance device to be variable, a post-processing apparatus equipped with the sheet storing device and an image forming system equipped with the aforesaid items.
US07828276B2 Sheet processing apparatus and sheet processing method
There is provided a technique which can greatly improve throughput at the time when, after a folding process is performed to a bundle of sheets, the bundle of sheets subjected to the folding process is transported to a downstream side, and can prevent a wrinkle from occurring in the bundle of sheets at the time of the folding process. A sheet transport speed of a pair of rollers is changed from a first transport speed to a second transport speed at a specified timing between when a folding blade finishes a pressing operation of the bundle of sheets and starts a return operation to a waiting position and when a rear edge of the bundle of sheets pressed into a nip of a pair of rollers by the folding blade passes through the nip of the pair of rollers.
US07828274B2 Method and apparatus to help promote contact of gas with vaporized material
Vaporizable material is supported within a vessel to promote contact of an introduced gas with the vaporizable material, and produce a product gas including vaporized material. A heating element supplies heat to a wall of the vessel to heat vaporizable material disposed therein. The vessel may comprise an amoule having a removable top. Multiple containers defining multiple material support surfaces may be stacked disposed within a vessel in thermal communication with the vessel. A tube may be disposed within the vessel and coupled to a gas inlet. Filters, flow meters, and level sensors may be further provided. Product gas resulting from contact of introduced gas with vaporized material may be delivered to atomic layer deposition (ALD) or similar process equipment. At least a portion of source material including a solid may be dissolved in a solvent, followed by removal of solvent to yield source material (e.g., a metal complex) disposed within the vaporizer.
US07828262B2 Damping and mounting structure for a motor
A damping and mounting structure for a motor includes a bracket to which a motor is mounted, the bracket being provided with a plurality of through-holes; a housing having a driven element which is driven by the motor on the bracket; a plurality of threaded holes and positioning recesses coaxial to the threaded holes, provided in the housing; a plurality of cylindrical damper bushes made of an elastic material, mounted in the through-holes; a plurality of retainer bushes made of a material harder than the damper bushes and inserted in the damper bushes, the retainer bushes being provided, at the front ends thereof, with positioning projections which are inserted into the positioning recesses; and a plurality of set screws which extend through the retainer bushes from a surface of the bracket and are screwed into the threaded holes of the housing.
US07828260B2 Deployable support unit for reading material
A support unit is provided for supporting reading material at a selected and convenient angle and height for facilitated viewing. The support unit is deployable between a collapsed and generally flat or two-dimensional non-deployed position, and a deployed position with a support platen at an adjustably selected angle and height for comfortable viewing. In one embodiment, the support platen is pivotally mounted onto a base plate for swinging movement between the non-deployed and deployed positions. In another embodiment, the support platen is pivotally mounted onto an intermediate bracket plate which is in turn pivotally mounted onto the base plate, wherein the bracket plate permits the support platen to be raised or lowered relative to the base plate with the support platen oriented in one of multiple angular settings relative to the bracket plate. The support platen and base plate may respectively incorporate a computer screen and a keyboard/processor unit.
US07828259B2 Electronic device holder
An electronic device holder includes: a base; a pivot seat extending uprightly from the base; first and second pivot joints; a connector having front and rear end portions, the rear end portion of the connector being pivoted to the pivot seat through the first pivot joint so as to permit rotation of the connector relative to the pivot seat about a first axis; and a device holding seat having front and rear sides. The rear side of the device holding seat is pivoted to the front end portion of the connector through the second pivot joint so as to permit rotation of the device holding seat relative to the connector about a second axis.
US07828252B2 Adjustably positionable display and lighting arrangement
An electronic display and lighting arrangement for viewing by, and illumination for, a person in a resting position includes: an electronic display assembly including a first carriage movable along a translation axis, a first pivot arm coupled to the first carriage with the first pivot arm pivotable about a first pivot axis, and an electronic display coupled to the first pivot arm; and a lighting assembly including a second carriage movable in a direction parallel to the translation axis, and a light coupled to the second carriage and adjustably positionable by movement of the second carriage. The electronic display is adjustably positionable both along the translation axis by movement of the first carriage, and about the first pivot axis by movement of the first pivot arm about the first pivot axis.
US07828251B2 Interconnecting alignment and support system with latching mechanism
An interconnecting alignment and support system for supporting and maintaining alignment of at least one conduit or pipe is disclosed. The system may be used, for example, during a concrete pour operation or other construction operation. The system comprises a base spacer and, optionally, one or more of an intermediate spacer and/or another base spacer. The base spacer is constructed to be capable of interlocking with another spacer on each side and the top. The intermediate spacer is constructed to be capable of interlocking with another spacer on each side and both the top and bottom. The interlocks on the spacers may be releasably latched when fully interlocked. By interlocking the spacers, a matrix structure for aligning and supporting conduit or pipe may be created. The base spacer is attachable to a surface, so that the alignment and support system may be fixed in place.
US07828250B2 Leading edge flap apparatuses and associated methods
The present invention is directed generally toward leading edge flap apparatuses and corresponding methods. One aspect of the invention is directed toward an aircraft system having an airfoil, an actuator driver, and a leading edge device with two flow surfaces and six links. In a further aspect of the invention, the flow surfaces of the leading edge device are at least approximately located in the same position when the actuator driver is in two different positions. Another aspect of the invention is directed toward an aircraft system having an airfoil and a leading edge device movable between at least a retracted position and an extended position along a motion path having two segments. The second flow surface can be positioned generally behind and/or generally above the first flow surface when the first and second flow surfaces are located in the first segment of the motion path.
US07828249B2 Docking system
First and second releasably connectable portions of a docking system are moved together. A relatively central concave element of the second portion of the docking system contacts a corresponding relatively central mating convex element of the first portion of the docking system. A plurality of relatively distal coupling elements rigidly connected to one of the first and second portions of the docking system are inserted into a corresponding plurality of relatively distal sockets of the other of the first and second portions of the docking system. The plurality of relatively distal coupling elements are captured with a corresponding plurality of relatively distal latch mechanisms associated with the plurality of relatively distal sockets responsive to inserting the plurality of relatively distal coupling elements into the corresponding plurality of relatively distal sockets.
US07828247B2 Automatic recycling ice detector
An automatic recycling ice detector includes a sensor for sensing the formation of ice on an aircraft surface and a heater for melting the detected ice. The detector also includes a timing circuit for indicating the time to melt any detected ice and automatically recycling the detector when the ice is melted. A computer including a look up table or the like are provided for measuring and indicating the thickness of the accumulated ice based on a relationship between melting time and thickness.
US07828244B2 Supply system for an aircraft
A supply system that encompasses a vapor generator, may be used to generate water. The vapor generator is supplied with hydrogen and oxygen, and generates hot water vapor, which may be used for supplying energy and water. For example, using the supply system reduces a take off weight for an aircraft and supply redundancy.
US07828239B2 Paper feeding device
In order to enable a plurality of paper rolls having different diameters in an unused (new) state to be mounted freely according to a choice of a user, and to increase convenience for a user.A paper feeding device 3 that feeds a sheet of a paper roll 2a (2b) to a printing device 4, includes two side plates 8b vertically arranged along both sides of the paper roll 2a (2b), in which the side plates 8b are provided with a plurality of notches 11, 13 which are capable of bearing-supporting the paper rolls 2a (2b) having the different diameters in the unused state, and in which, when the notches 11, 13 are mounted with the corresponding paper rolls 2a (2b) in the unused state, end portions 14, 15 of outer peripheral surfaces of the paper rolls 2a (2b) on the printing device 4 side are arranged to be positioned in substantially the same vertical plane.
US07828238B2 Media-agitation type wet disperser and method for dispersing fine particles
A media-agitation type wet disperser is provided which eliminates the group motion of media, attains high dispersion efficiency, and avoids wear problem. A cylindrical vessel having a feed opening for the treating material and a discharge opening for the treated material is equipped with a cylindrical separator and a rotor rotating while being fixed to a rotary shaft. The rotor is composed of pluralities of small rotors each having a cylindrical agitation part and a disk-shaped holding part. The agitation part has pluralities of throughholes connecting the inside and the outside thereof.
US07828234B1 Basket media mill with porous containment wall and method
The containment wall of a basket media mill is constructed of a porous synthetic polymeric material having porous openings each of a pore size less than the predetermined size of the media for confining the media within the bed in the basket as feedstock is passed through the porous openings in the containment wall. The containment wall extends over an overall area and the porous openings provide an open area through which the feedstock flows as the feedstock passes through the containment wall, and the open area is at least about fifteen percent of the overall area of the containment wall for enabling a concomitant increased volumetric flow of feedstock through the containment wall. A substantially flat sheet of porous synthetic polymeric material having porous openings is formed into a cylindrical configuration to establish a cylindrical containment wall with porous openings each increasing in pore size from the interior of the cylindrical wall toward the exterior of the cylindrical wall.
US07828231B2 Discharge head for fluids
A discharge head for fluids, with a discharge nozzle (1) which has a discharge opening (2) and accommodates an internal sleeve (5) in which is arranged an internal body (4) which delimits an outlet channel (7) and has a connecting element (8) for connection to a counterpart (9) of a discharging apparatus, the internal sleeve (5) having, on the end side adjacent to the discharge opening (2), a sealing surface (10) against which a valve stopper (3) which is located on the internal body (4) and closes the outlet channel (7) is spring prestressed.
US07828222B2 Radio frequency identifier tag and method of fabrication
Disclosed is a radio frequency identifier tag having a microchip with first and second contact nodes, an antenna formed by a conductive line connected between the first and second contact nodes, and first and second conductive line segments connected in parallel and to the first and second contact nodes to form a tail capacitance modifying the antenna capacitance.
US07828221B2 RFID antenna and RFID tag
Provided are a radio frequency identification (RFID) antenna and an RFID tag including the RFID antenna. The RFID antenna includes an electric conductor and a conductor that radiate electromagnetic fields isotropically. The RFID tag including the RFID antenna can be installed on a metal plate.
US07828219B2 Printed document and control system
Printed document 3 includes at least one microcircuit capable of generating and transmitting a signal that allows identifying a microcircuit and contact parts in series with the microcircuit 5 for the activation of the microcircuit 5.
US07828217B2 Method and device for producing RFID smart labels or smart label inlays
The invention concerns a method and a system for production of RFID smart labels or smart label inlays, in which a multiplicity or RFID straps (11) are connected in succession with a multiplicity of antennae (20), where in a first step the RFID straps (11) to be arranged on a strap substrate band (5a) are separated (8, 9) and mounted on a substrate band (1, 1a, 1b, 1c; 10, 10a-c) for the smart labels or smart label inlays to be produced, and in a subsequent second step the antennae (20) are mounted on the substrate band (1, 1a, 1b, 1c; 10, 10a-c) and on first connection surfaces (26) of the RFID straps (11) such that the connection surfaces (26) of each RFID strap (11) electrically contact second connection surfaces of the antennae (20) allocated to the RFID strap (11) or the first connection surfaces (26) are positioned for electrical contact and fixed on the second connection surfaces.
US07828213B2 RF label identification
In an RF label identification system comprising a label reader and a plurality of labels, a unique and secret identifier being associated with each label, a first random number is sent from a label to the reader. A second random number is then sent from the reader to the label. In the RF label, a value of the encrypted identifier is then obtained by generating third and fourth random numbers in accordance with a probabilistic rule, by transforming the first and second random numbers in accordance with a determined function and by combining the identifier with the first and second random numbers, with the first and second transformed numbers and with the third and fourth random numbers. The value of the encrypted identifier is sent to the reader. After N repetitions of the above process, the reader identifies the RF label as a function of the N values of the encrypted identifier received, of the determined function, of the N first and second random numbers and of the probabilistic rule.
US07828212B2 Combined battery and smart card
An apparatus for seating within a battery compartment and a smart card compartment of a device, including a battery component and a smart card component. The battery component is coupled to the smart card component. The smart card component is configured to seat within a smart card compartment of a device. The apparatus is configured to be inserted into a smart card compartment of a smart card containing device substantially simultaneously with the insertion of the battery component into a battery compartment of the device. The smart card component may be a test smart card, and the battery component may be a battery emulator.
US07828207B2 Universal credit card apparatus and method
The apparatus and method described herein provides for creating multiple spatial patterns, such as magnetic patterns on credit cards. The invention includes storage of information from which patterns may be created, a pattern creation device for creating the spatial patterns, and control whereby the information which is stored is selectively utilized to cause the pattern creation. This allows multiple desired patterns to be simulated, allowing convenient replacement of a number of separate pattern carrying devices.
US07828206B2 System and method for exchanging loyalty points for acquisitions
Systems and methods are provided for facilitating an acquisition from a merchant, whereby payment for the acquisition is made at least partially through automated redemption of loyalty points from a loyalty account. In particular, information is received at a loyalty point exchange system from the merchant. The information may include loyalty data indicating that the acquisition was paid for using a transaction card account that is to be reimbursed using loyalty points from the loyalty account. The loyalty account is debited by an amount equal to a currency value of the acquisition and the transaction card account is credited the amount charged for the acquisition. Loyalty points may, alternatively, be used to directly pay for purchases without the steps of charging and crediting a transaction card.
US07828198B2 Pouring spout for a container and container provided with such a spout
A duct (1) applicable to a container (4) presents a connecting portion (9) with four substantially flat connecting surfaces (9a) and a internal bridging surface (13) by which the side walls (7a) of the container (4) are joined seamlessly to a spout (5) afforded by the duct (1); the bridging surface (13) is contoured in such a way that a flow of liquid food product can be directed through the spout (5) without becoming trapped and stagnating between the duct (1) and side walls (7a) of the container (4).
US07828197B2 Composite containers and methods for sealing the same
A container having an integrated bottom end closure subassembly. The container includes a top opening and bottom opening. The top opening is initially closed and sealed with a top membrane while the bottom opening is closed by the end closure subassembly. The subassembly includes an end cap and a bottom membrane. The subassembly is configured so that positioning the end cap onto the container to close the bottom opening positions the bottom membrane near the container. The bottom membrane may be sealed to the container. Once the bottom membrane is sealed to the container, the end cap may be removed from the container independently from the bottom membrane. The end cap provides protection to the bottom membrane during shipping and handling and then is used by the consumer to reclose the top opening once the top membrane is removed.
US07828196B2 Transport container with improved ventilation properties for flowers
A container for flowers and such includes a stackable holder with upright walls, a carrier supported on the walls, an upper holder being placeable on the carrier, and also A ventilation element located in at least one of the walls and also at the top of the carrier. The ventilation element includes at least one recess opening out at the upper edge of the wall.
US07828195B2 Bottle sleeves
The present invention provides bottle sleeves for bottles, such as beverage bottles. Bottle sleeves of the present invention include a rib. In one embodiment of the present invention, the bottle sleeves comprise a sleeve sidewall including a partially cylindrical sidewall section and a rib, wherein the sidewall is continuous with the rib. In another embodiment of the present invention the bottle sleeves comprise a substantially cylindrical sidewall and a rib such that the rib overlaps the sidewall. Ribs of the present invention include at least one rib stiffener that is positioned inside the rib interior.
US07828193B2 Method of mounting an electronic component and mounting apparatus
In a method of mounting an electronic component on a substrate, electrode terminals on at least one of the substrate and the electronic component are composed of solder bumps. The electrode terminals of the substrate and the electrode terminals of the electronic component are placed in contact and ultrasonic vibration is applied to at least one of the substrate and the electronic component to provisionally bond the electrode terminals together. A gap between the substrate and the electronic component is then filled with flux fill, and the electrode terminals of the substrate and the electronic component are bonded by reflowing the solder bumps.
US07828190B2 Ultrasonic mounting apparatus
In an ultrasonic mounting apparatus, a pressing shaft coupled with a voice coil motor to apply a load on a part to be mounted is placed independently from components including a bonding tool, ultrasonic horn, transducer, and horn support member. The components can move coaxially with the pressing shaft which is an application axis of a driving force. Abutting position of the bonding tool and pressing shaft is brought into coincidence with a node of a standing wave generated in the bonding tool.
US07828189B2 Surgical stapling instruments including a cartridge having multiple staple sizes
A surgical stapling apparatus includes a staple cartridge and an anvil member. The staple cartridge includes a plurality of surgical fasteners disposed in rows of retention slots. The staple cartridge may have an annular or linear configuration of retention slots. The tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge may be tapered or stepped. The anvil member has a tissue contacting surface that includes a number of pockets arranged for substantially aligning with the retention slots. In addition, the tissue contacting surface of the anvil member may complement the tissue contacting surface of the staple cartridge.
US07828187B2 Apparatus for applying surgical fasteners to body tissue
An apparatus for endoscopic application of surgical staples adapted to attach surgical mesh to body tissue includes a frame and an elongated endoscopic section connected to the frame and extending distally therefrom. A staple storage cartridge is removably supported on a pivotal support system at the distal end portion of the endoscopic section. An elongated pusher system is provided for individually advancing at least one staple at a time distally. The pusher system includes a trigger system to actuate the pusher. The trigger system is provided with perceptible tactile sensing means to indicate when the legs of the staple being advanced are exposed so as to be visible to the user for positioning and orientation purposes.
US07828182B2 Stapler switchable between various operation modes and switching method thereof
Disclosed is a stapler having various operation modes, as well as methods for switching the stapler among the operation modes. The stapler includes a primary staple magazine, a secondary staple magazine, a staple selector, a drive blade selector and a cover. The primary and secondary magazines respectively contain primary and secondary staples. The staple selector and the drive blade selector are movable for switching the stapler between primary and secondary staple modes. The stapler also includes a perforation for performing a perforating operation, and a switch for securing the stapler in a collapsed, compact form to simplify storage thereof. The stapler is switchable among a primary staple mode, a secondary staple mode, a perforation mode and a storage mode by means of the staple selector and the drive blade selector.
US07828181B1 Universal pill splitter and method of use
A universal pill splitter as an upper pill splitter body with a cutting blade affixed to a lower side of the upper body and a lower body rotating affixed to the upper body, with two pill stops affixed to the upper side of the lower body, with a slide slidingly affixing to the lower body, wherein the slide further contains two pill guides at either side of a slot centrally located in the slide body, so that when a pill is place on the lower body against the pill stops and the slide is pushed forward so that it engages the pill, pressing it securely against the pill stops, the pill may be split by rotating the upper body toward the lower body, thereby driving the cutting blade against a top of the pill.
US07828178B2 Quick load cartridge holder for a caulking gun
A caulking gun cartridge caddy has back to back cartridge clamps which surround a portion of the circumference of two caulking gun cartridges, holding them in parallel juxtaposition whereby one cartridge is held in readiness for replacing another while the latter is in use. The caddy holds the cartridges oriented in opposite directions to minimize interference by the spare cartridge with using the caulking gun. The caddy may include a tool holder on its side for also holding a smoothing tool commonly needed by users to smooth a bead of the fill material after it has been distributed from the cartridge nozzle.
US07828176B2 Fluid dispenser with internal pump
A hand operated fluid dispensers comprised of a sealed flexible reservoir chamber containing a fluid, a flexible pump chamber encased by and drawing fluid from the reservoir, and a pump cycled by external pressure applied through a reservoir wall. This class of simple, inexpensive, disposable dispensers is particularly useful in packaging cosmetics, foodstuffs, and healthcare products. As pocketable dispensers they are popular for dispensing small amounts of stored viscous liquids easily damaged when exposure to the atmosphere, a condition where sealed reservoirs coupled with airless pumps working together successfully prevent such product contamination and deterioration. A method of improved healthcare employing such pump dispensers containing a hand sanitizing fluid is also discussed.
US07828170B2 Rim-mounted drinking aid for liquid containers
A drinking aid adapted to engage, and facilitate drinking by a user from, a liquid container having a rim and an opening. The drinking aid has a body at least a portion of which defines a U-shaped groove adapted to receive the rim of the container when the rim slips into the groove and to create a mechanical engagement between the rim and the drinking aid. The body also engages the container to create a frictional fit between the drinking aid and the container. At least one of a column or angled arms disposed on the body form a V-shaped or U-shaped funnel directing and centering fluid from the container to an orifice either formed in the column or defined by the angled arms. The drinking aid prevents spillage of the liquid from the container when the user tilts the container to pour liquid through the orifice.
US07828169B2 Merchandiser
A merchandiser (10) is disclosed having a main body (20), top shelf (110) and bottom shelf (31). A slidable graphics panel (90) with a bumper (100) formed in the back thereof is positioned such that the interlocking channels (60,61) permit the graphics panel (90) to move between upper and lower positions relative to the main body (20). When the graphics panel (90) is in the upper position, the wares (200) on the bottom shelf (31) are viewable to potential purchasers and when the graphics panel (90) is in the lower position, the wares (200) on the upper shelf are viewable to potential purchasers. A sample opening (80) is also constructed in the body (20) wherein a product sample (200) may be conveniently removed, tested or demonstrated and returned to the merchandiser (10).
US07828165B2 Fully vented wide rim nursing bottle with contoured vent tube
A nursing bottle formed of a large volume container, incorporating a vent tube that extends to vent pressure at all times. The nursing bottle may have a cylindrical shape or other configuration that prevents formula placed therein from blocking the vent tube regardless of its angular disposition. The vent tube extends distally from the vent insert, operatively associated with a collar, that holds the vent structures and the nipple to the wide rimmed opening. In addition, the vent tube has a conical shape of decreasing diameter distally toward the center of the bottom to dissipate the pressure that may cause leakage from the bottle. Further, the vent insert has a major and minor seal that prevents leaks out of the collar and onto an infant.
US07828164B2 Suspended platform for overhead traveling carriage
A suspended platform is provided which can prevent an article from overturning and falling even when a great quake such as an earthquake occurs. The suspended platform is intended for an overhead traveling carriage which transfers an article having an abutting surface facing upward in a transfer direction on a horizontal plane and mounts the article on the suspended platform, the suspended platform including a tilt regulating part positioned, in relation to a receiving part on which the article is mounted, such that the tilt regulating part (i) does not touch the article when the article is transferred and mounted on the suspended platform, (ii) is above the abutting surface of the article when the article is transferred and mounted on the suspended platform, (iii) and regulates, by abutting the mounted article at the abutting surface, the tilt range of the article.
US07828160B2 Storage rack
A storage rack a base frame rod structure formed by bending one single metal wire rod into a predetermined shape and a top frame rod structure formed by bending one single metal wire rod into a predetermined shape and welded to the base frame rod structure such that multiple storage racks can be received together by inserting one storage rack of another storage rack to save storage space, or multiple storage racks can be stacked together, constituting a multi-deck combination storage rack.
US07828158B2 Merchandise dispensing apparatus providing theft deterrence
A box structure has a plurality of walls positioned and configured to prevent access to an interior space housing merchandise in a secure manner. A first movable wall permits manual access to a frontal portion of the interior space while at the same time moving a barrier strip to prevent manual access to other than said frontal portion of the interior space. A roll-out shelf mounts merchandise supporting modules with pushers to move merchandise toward the front of the structure where ejection mechanisms in each of the modules are able to direct selected items to the front of the structure where they can be accessed by consumers. The ejection process creates a characteristic noise to alert store personnel that products are being dispensed.
US07828152B2 Carrier tape, electronic-component accommodating member and method of transporting electronic component
The invention provides carrier tapes in which, when the carrier tapes are wound up, regardless of the positions of accommodating portions of the upper and lower carrier tapes that overlap each other, electronic components accommodated in the accommodating portions can be reliably secured, so that the electronic components can be prevented from becoming dislodged from the accommodating portions; and electronic-component accommodating members including the carrier tapes.In each carrier tape having the plurality of accommodating portions that accommodate the electronic components and that are formed in a longitudinal direction, a plurality of protrusions are disposed at the bottom surfaces of the accommodating portions, and surfaces of interval portions provided between the accommodating portions that are adjacent to each other are formed lower than surfaces of guides of the carrier tapes.
US07828151B2 Corner protector
A corner protector, e.g. for a sheet of glass, has a pair of generally triangular side walls connected by a pair of substantially perpendicular bridging walls. The internal faces of the bridging walls are substantially flat and are separated by a recess. Internal channels are provided along the junction between the side walls and the bridging walls. The margins of the side walls which extend between the outer ends of the bridging walls are curved such that they are mutually offset from each other for most of their length. At least one of the side walls contains a through-aperture for receiving an adhesive pad which adheres to the protected article in use to hold the corner protector in place. A finger notch provides access to an edge of the adhesive pad to facilitate peeling in order to remove the corner protector.
US07828150B2 Container for medicament powder
There is provided a container for a medicament powder formed from a material comprising a desiccant. In one embodiment the container is a medicament dispenser comprising a body defining a reservoir for medicament in powder form, and an outlet in communication with said reservoir. In another embodiment the container is a medicament dispenser comprising a body defining a chamber for receipt of a medicament carrier, and an outlet in communication with said chamber. Methods of controlling moisture flow are also described.
US07828147B2 Multi-layer medication carrier
A multi-layer medication carrier or blister card may comprise a plurality of layers. A support layer is provided with one or more openings to receive corresponding blisters formed in a blister layer. A backing layer is provided over the blister layer to form one or more enclosures capable of holding unit doses of a medication. Perforations provided in at least the blister layer define unit dose packages. Dimples may be provided in the blister layer within a boundary defined by the perforations, which dimples may be used to ensure subsequent ejection of each unit dose package. An adhesive-free region in the backing layer may be provided in alignment with the perforations defining each unit dose package to further ensure proper ejection. Additionally, a partial-depth cut in the backing layer may be provided in substantial alignment with each blister, thereby facilitating removal of the unit dose of medication.
US07828144B2 Clothes hanger storage device
A clothes hanger storage device includes a container and a plurality of pillars inside the container for retaining a multitude of variously-sized and -shaped hangers. The plurality of pillars may be arranged as two sets of pillars, or two elongated pillar units, wherein large triangular hangers extend around both sets of pillars or around the two elongated pillar units, and small triangular hangers extend around only one set of pillars or one elongated pillar unit. Non-triangular hangers, such as hangers only comprising two shoulders, may be stored in the container by being trapped between the container wall and the pillars, but not extending around the pillars. The clothes hanger storage device may be adapted to be hung from a door, stored underneath a counter or in a closet, or attached to the door of a cabinet. In an optional embodiment, the container may be fitted with a releasable lid that fits over the top of the container. The preferred lid may be moved to a dispensing position, which leaves room between the container and the lid through which one or more hangers may be removed.
US07828141B2 Container closure having a capsule inside it
The invention relates to a closure for a container having an adapter part which can be fastened to the container connecting piece forming the container opening and on the external thread of which a hood-shaped part is screwed which forms the upper removal opening, wherein a capsule which is filled with an active substance and the contents of which can be moved into the interior of the container lies on the upper edge of the container connecting piece, wherein the capsule can be cut open by blades which protrude on a blade ring which can be rotated by rotation of the hood-like part and can be moved downwards, wherein the blade ring can be moved downwards during a first rotational range of the hood-shaped part until the blades stab into the capsule, and wherein the blade ring can be rotated by the hood-shaped part during the subsequent second rotational range of the hood-shaped part, in particular without a further movement downwards.
US07828140B2 Structure of cap having storage space
A cap with a storage space for containing a secondary material includes a storage portion having a storage space and provided with a seal plate formed on a lower end of the storage space, an outer cap foldably formed on the storage portion and coupled to a spouting portion, a spouting member inserted in the spouting portion, and an operational member for breaking the seal plate when the spouting member is in operation.
US07828139B2 Closure mixing apparatus for a drinking container
A closure apparatus is fitted onto a container opening of a drinking container with an inner space for reception of a drinking liquid. The closure apparatus includes a chamber body that defines therein a receiving chamber, the content of which is introducible into the inner space of the drinking container. The closure apparatus further includes a closure element that selectively closes a first opening of the chamber body, and an axially slidably displaceable cover element that selectively closes a second introduction opening of the chamber body. The content of the receiving chamber is releasable into the inner space of the drinking container through the second introduction opening by an axial sliding displacement of the cover element.
US07828138B2 Case
A case, in particular for writing utensils, has a shell-like lower part and a shell-shaped upper part. The two parts are pivotally connected to one another. The upper part has a viewing window. A holding device for a decorative material blank is disposed on the inner side aligned with and covering the viewing window on the inside.
US07828131B2 Clutch-manipulation assist mechanism
A clutch-manipulation assist mechanism of a vehicle clutch mechanism is capable of disconnecting power of an engine and is provided to a power transmission path which transmits the power of the engine to a rear wheel. The clutch-manipulation assist mechanism includes a push rod member which is arranged near the clutch mechanism and which is movable in the axial direction interlockingly with a power cutoff of the clutch mechanism due to the manipulation of a clutch lever by a rider. An axial movement of the push rod member is assisted by an actuator in response to a detection of the clutch lever manipulation by the rider using a stroke sensor, thus reducing a manipulation force of the clutch lever. A detection lug of the stroke sensor detects a movement quantity of a shaft end of the push rod member.
US07828130B2 Torque coupling with disconnectable fluid pump
A pump system that pressurizes a fluid includes a shaft, a first rotor and a second rotor that is selectively driven by the shaft. Relative rotation between the first rotor and the second rotor generates variable sized pockets therebetween to pressurize the fluid. A clutch regulates a degree of coupling of the rotor to the shaft between a decoupled state and a coupled state to regulate the relative rotation between the first and second rotors.
US07828128B2 Control of fluid pressure in a torque converter of an automatic transmission
A system for controlling hydraulic fluid supplied to a torque converter of an transmission includes a torque converter including a chamber containing an impeller and a turbine, and a bypass clutch having a variable torque capacity, a source of variable control pressure, a latch valve changes in response to the variable control pressure alternately between an unlatched state, wherein the latch valve produces a low pressure output, and a latched state, wherein the latch valve produces a high pressure output, a first valve for limiting hydraulic pressure in the chamber alternately at two magnitudes of pressure in response to the low pressure output and the high pressure output, and a second valve responsive to the variable control pressure for regulating a magnitude of hydraulic pressure that actuates the bypass clutch and changes the torque capacity of the clutch.
US07828125B2 System for controlling electric device
A system for controlling an electric device comprises: a power supply for supplying electric power to an electric device; switch portion connected between the power supply and the electric device for controlling the electric power supplied to the electric device; an LC filter disposed between the switch portion and the electric device; and current detection portion for detecting an electric current supplied to the electric device.
US07828124B2 Electric disk brake
An electric disk brake is capable of determining an abnormality of a parking brake mechanism while the parking brake mechanism is in operation. A brake force is generated in the following manner. A rotation of an electric motor is slowed down by a differential speed reducing mechanism, and is converted into a linear motion by a ball ramp mechanism so as to advance a piston, which then presses a brake pad against a disk rotor to generate a brake force. A parking brake mechanism can lock a rotation of a rotor of the electric motor and maintain a braked state by rotating an engagement pawl through a plunger of a solenoid and causing the engagement pawl to be engaged with a ratchet wheel coupled to the rotor of the electric motor. A play is provided at a coupling portion of the engagement pawl and the plunger. The play enables the plunger to move within the range of the play while the engagement pawl is engaged with the ratchet wheel, thereby enabling the determination of whether the parking brake mechanism operates normally or abnormally based on whether the plunger moves or not upon application of an electric current to the solenoid while the parking brake mechanism is in an actuated state.
US07828123B2 Caliper and brake lining for a brake caliper
A brake calliper for a disc brake, in particular for motor cycles and/or bicycles, includes a housing (30) for accommodating brake linings (40) which grip a brake disc during braking, with the housing having an abutment area (33) for contact with the brake linings during braking in the forward direction of travel and an assembly opening (29) which is opposite the abutment area (33) and through which the brake linings (40) can be inserted into the housing (30). A brake lining securing device (50) secures the brake linings in the housing (30) on the side opposite the abutment area (33), and a brake lining support device (31) supports the brake linings (40) between the abutment area (33) and the brake lining securing device (50). The brake linings can be arranged so that firstly the danger of undesired blocking during the braking process and secondly the danger of vibration of the brake during driving are substantially reduced. Specifically, the brake calliper has a prestressing device (32) which prestresses a brake lining (40) inserted into the housing (30) in a defined position.
US07828122B2 Vibration damping device for an elevator
In a vibration damping device for an elevator, an actuator for generating a vibration damping force acting on an elevator car is provided in parallel with a spring for urging a guide roller against a guide rail. The actuator is controlled by a controller. The controller determines the vibration damping force to be generated by the actuator based on information from a car frame acceleration sensor for detecting horizontal acceleration of a car frame and a car cage acceleration sensor for detecting horizontal acceleration of a car cage.
US07828119B1 Grease gun applicator system
A grease gun applicator system for making it easier to use a battery powered grease gun by freeing up one hand while greasing. The grease gun applicator system includes a powered grease gun, a dispensing hose extending from the powered grease gun, a dispensing nozzle attached to a distal end of the dispensing hose and a control switch attached to or adjacent to the dispensing nozzle to control the powered grease gun. A sling is preferably attached to the powered grease gun for allowing easy transportation of the powered grease gun.
US07828115B2 Weight-releasing ladder lockstep
A novel lockstep mechanism for a rolling ladder is described. The weight-releasing ladder lockstep allows a ladder to be relocated on wheels but when a person climbs the ladder, the front wheels are automatically retracted and the ladder rests firmly with its front feet on the floor. When in the climbing (stationary) position the front wheels of the lockstep are retracted and the ladder rests on the lockstep's feet. When in the rolling position, the ladder is tilted slightly back on its rear wheels and the wheels of the lockstep are pushed down to allow the ladder to roll. When in the rolling position, the lockstep wheels are held in place via a latch which is isolated from rolling vibrations through pivoting shock links and springs.
US07828113B1 Methods and apparatus for controlling vibration of enclosures, particularly loudspeaker enclosures
A beam 14 having, at one end, a tie-point 11 screwed to reference location 12 of vibrating panel 15. At the other end of beam 14 is rubbing-point 13. Rubbing-point 13 is pushed into contact with panel 15 at contact location 17 by the flexibility of beam 14. Direct rubbing occurs between 13 and 17 during vibration. But a friction linkage 18 (FIG. 1B) can be mounted between beam point 13 and panel location 17 to redirect rubbing direction and/or to amplify friction movement. Vibration of panel 15 will cause slippage (rubbing) between point 13 and location 17, therefore creating friction dissipation of vibration energy. Construction of beam 14 can be complex to include more rubbing-points (FIG. 2, 3, 4) or more rubbing pieces (FIG. 1A, 1C) that can rub with each other to create more friction dissipation.
US07828108B2 Rear drive and suspension for an all terrain vehicle
A vehicle, including an independent rear suspension and a rear drive mechanism including a pair of dual offset joints mounted in a sprocket hub. Each dual offset joint is connected to a half shaft coupled to a wheel. A driven sprocket is connected to the sprocket hub at a location offset from a centerline of the vehicle. An external chain coupled to a drive sprocket coupled to the vehicle's engine and the driven sprocket to transfer rotational movement of the drive sprocket to the driven sprocket, thereby causing rotation of the sprocket hub, the dual offset joints, the half shafts, and the wheels.
US07828107B2 Forward/backward movement operation device for work machine
A forward/reverse control system for a work machine cancels a second control state, in which forward/reverse switching control is performed by a second forward/reverse control means, by an operation of a first forward/reverse control means to return to a first control state in which forward/reverse switching control is performed by the first forward/reverse control means. The system is provided with a F-N-R lever unit 30 (the first forward/reverse control means) and F-N-R switch unit 40 (the second forward/reverse control means) that instruct forward, reverse or neutral, a controller 42 which performs forward/reverse switching control by giving priority to an instruction from the F-N-R lever unit 30 over an instruction from the F-N-R switch unit 40, and a selector switch 41 which by an operation of a switching control member 41a, instructs the controller 42 to switch to the second control state or to cancel the second control state. As a consequence, the system has made it possible to return to the first control state without an operation of the first forward/reverse control means.
US07828101B2 Self-propelled wheel for bicycles and similar vehicles
A wheel with a self-contained drive mechanism is provided to propel (or assist in propulsion of) bicycles, tricycles, and similar vehicles. The wheel preferably takes the form of a detachable wheel which is readily received within the dropouts of a bicycle frame or fork to be attached therein by a standard quick-release mechanism. Thus, the wheel may be added to (or removed from) preexisting standard bicycles and the like.
US07828098B2 Battery arrangement structure of a vehicle
A battery arrangement structure for a vehicle that concentrates a mass of a vehicle body while effectively making use of a space in the vehicle body. The engine of the vehicle is mounted on a vehicle body frame, an intake device which includes a throttle body is connected to the engine, and a battery is arranged inside a pair of left and right upper frames which constitute the vehicle body frames. The throttle body is arranged on either one of left and right sides with respect to a vehicle body center line which extends in the longitudinal direction of a vehicle body, and the battery is arranged on anotheer side with respect to the vehicle body center line.
US07828097B2 Construction machine
An object is to provide a construction machine containing an engine (30) and a heat exchanger (31) in a bonnet (14), adapted for easy cleaning of a side of the heat exchanger (31) toward a cooling fan.A space (29) into which a hand can be put is provided between a cooling fan 33 attached to the engine (30) and the heat exchanger (31) arranged so as to face to the cooling fan (33). A part covering a region from the cooling fan (33) to the heat exchanger (31) in the bonnet (14) from above and sides includes a separate cover (34). An opening part having a guard (36) is provided through a portion of the cover (34), the portion facing to the heat exchanger (31). The cover (34) is configured to be openable and closable. The cooling fan (33) is adapted to be of a discharge type. A plurality of the heat exchangers are arranged in a same plane.
US07828095B2 In-wheel motor and wheel assembly with this in-wheel motor
A motor has a stator core, a coil, a rotor, and a motor case in which the stator core, the coil, and the rotor are housed. The motor is also provided with a fluid carrying member that is arranged around a coil end of the coil in the motor case and has an inlet hole that is communicated with a fluid supply source and a distribution hole that is communicated with a space inside the motor case.
US07828094B2 Driving system, control method of driving system, and vehicle equipped with driving system
A driving system, vehicle, and control method in which a difference between the detection value of an intake air pressure sensor and an atmospheric pressure sensor is computed as a detection value difference in the engine stop condition. An estimate of a potential for an abnormality of the detection value difference is determined, or the abnormality of the detection value difference is determined according to the duration time of an unusual state having the detection value difference of greater than a preset reference value. In an ignition-on state, when a delayed activation is requested, it is identified whether the abnormality in the detection value difference is to be determined. The delayed activation is requested in response to confirmation of a potential abnormality condition where there is a potential for an abnormality in the detection value difference but the abnormality in the detection value difference is not determined.
US07828092B2 Motorized traction device for a patient support
A patient support including a traction device for powered movement of the patient support. The traction device includes a storage position and a use position.
US07828088B2 Thermally stable ultra-hard material compact construction
Thermally stable ultra-hard compact constructions of this invention comprise an ultra-hard material body that includes a thermally stable region positioned adjacent a surface of the body. The thermally stable region is formed from consolidated materials that are thermally stable at temperatures greater than about 750° C. The thermally stable region can occupy a partial portion of or the entire ultra-hard material body. The ultra-hard material body can comprise a composite of separate ultra-hard material elements that each form different regions of the body, at least one of the regions being thermally stable. The ultra-hard material body is attached to a desired substrate, an intermediate material is interposed between the body and the substrate, and the intermediate material joins the substrate and body together by high pressure/high temperature process.
US07828087B2 Rocket rig drilling apparatus
A well drilling apparatus includes multiple, transportable, modular, pre-assembled sections which include a substructure and multiple mast sections. These pre-assembled sections allow for a quicker complete rig-up of the well drilling apparatus at ground level in a horizontal direction, without the use of a crane. Once the assembly has been completed at ground level, the mast is raised to its vertical operating position via mechanisms for raising and lowering dog tails. During transport, the guide rails are built-in to the mast sections and the crown block is attached to the traveling block, thereby facilitating the rigging-up process. The mast may be lowered after the drilling operation has been accomplished without interfering with any blow-out preventer devices that may have been placed on the wellhead while the structure was at its raised operational level.
US07828082B2 Methods and apparatus for attenuating drillstring vibrations
Apparatus and methods are described for highly attenuating vibrations of a drillstring assembly while drilling. In one embodiment, vibrations are attenuated by introducing one or more vibration attenuation modules at appropriate assembly locations. For example, vibration attenuation modules may be inserted at locations where vibration energy is expected to be maximal. In one embodiment the vibration attenuation modules include cavities loosely packed with particles of solid material such as sand or metallic powder. In one embodiment, the cavity walls are rough and/or include geometric features that enhance vibration energy transfer to the loosely packed particles in the cavity(ies). The vibration energy is dissipated via friction and inelastic particle-particle and particle-wall collisions that occur as a result of drillstring motion.
US07828077B1 Rotary angle tool
A rotary angle tool is provided for driving a fastener while controlling the rotational speed of the chuck by varying the pressure or force of the tool against the fastener. The tool includes an angled chuck assembly that is drivable by a motor, an output shaft of the chuck assembly having a rotational axis that is non-parallel to the rotational axis of the motor drive shaft. A sensor is responsive to the proximity of or movement of a detectable element at the chuck output shaft. The sensor generates a signal for controlling the output of the motor in response to detection of the proximity or movement of the detectable element. Moving the chuck output shaft by urging the rotary tool against a fastener varies the proximity of the detectable element relative to the sensor and the sensor output or control proportionally varies the power supplied to the motor.
US07828068B2 System and method for thermal change compensation in an annular isolator
In accordance with the teachings of the present invention, a system and method for forming an annular isolator between production tubing and a borehole wall is provided. A section of expandable tubing is installed in a borehole, and a sleeve disposed around a surface of the tubing cooperates with the tubing to form a fluid chamber. The sleeve includes a first portion that is predisposed to expand outwardly under fluid pressure from the fluid chamber, and a second portion that is configured such that, when expanded due to fluid pressure, the second portion stores energy that is biased to sustain the fluid pressure within the chamber, in response to a change in fluid volume. The tubing may be expanded using a tool disposed within the tubing.
US07828065B2 Apparatus and method of stabilizing a flow along a wellbore
A system that is usable with a well includes a closed loop network that is located entirely downhole in the well. The system also includes valves that are located in a wellbore of the well and are interconnected by the closed loop network. Each valve is associated with a different isolated region of the wellbore and is adapted to regulate a flow through the valve based at least in part on a flow condition of the isolated region associated with the valve and a flow condition of each of the other isolated regions.
US07828057B2 Microwave process for intrinsic permeability enhancement and hydrocarbon extraction from subsurface deposits
Hydrocarbons are extracted from a target formation, such as oil shale, tar sands, heavy oil and petroleum reservoirs, by apparatus and methods which cause fracturing of the containment rock and liquification or volatization of the hydrocarbons by microwave energy directed by a radiating antenna in the target formation.
US07828054B2 Packer cable sealing system
A packer for temporarily closing a well or a pipe including a support and an inflatable tubular element attached to the support, the element having a wall of elastic material that is deformable radially outwards under the action of internal pressure so as to press hermetically against the wall of the well or pipe and is reinforced with multistrand metal cables embedded in the wall of the material, wherein the spaces between the strands forming the metal cables contain a fluid impermeable material so that fluid is unable to flow through the spaces of the cables.
US07828049B2 Heat exchanger
A heat exchanger includes left and right header tanks disposed in parallel; top and bottom side plates that couple respectively both ends of the pair of the header tanks; a first plurality of tubes connected between the pair of the header tanks at both ends that are disposed in a region nearer the bottom side plate as a condenser; and a second plurality of tubes that are disposed in a region nearer the top side plate as an oil cooler. Each tube in the second tubes has a cross-sectional shape identical to that of each tube in the first tubes and the top side plate is formed to have a squared U-shaped cross section so that a return pipe communicating with the second tubes can be disposed along a groove having the squared U-shaped cross section of the top side plate.
US07828047B2 Cooling unit
A cooling unit has a heat receiving unit that receives heat from a body radiating heat; a radiator disposed at a distance from the heat receiving unit and radiating recovered heat; a liquid coolant transporting heat generated at the heat receiving unit to the radiator; and a hollow tube disposed so that the liquid coolant circulates between the heat receiving unit and the radiator, a circulating flow of the liquid coolant formed by an elevating force of air bubbles generated from the heat received at the heat receiving unit, the radiator having an air pocket forming one part of the circulation path of the liquid coolant together with the hollow tube and capable of collecting the air bubbles.
US07828044B2 Charge air cooler
A charge air cooler comprising at least one tubular element with an internal flow duct for leading compressed air between an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture. A medium at a lower temperature than the compressed air is caused to flow in contact with an outside surface of the tubular element cooling the compressed air in the tubular element when the air is led through the flow duct. A movable control element is arranged close to the inlet aperture or the outlet aperture of the flow duct. A control for the control element provides a variable flow of compressed air through the flow duct as the movable control element is placed in various positions.
US07828043B2 Non-invasive real-time level sensing and feedback system for the precision sand casting process
A level sensing system and method for determining the level of a conductive material in a casting mold are disclosed, wherein the level sensing system a drive circuit and an inductive component disposed adjacent to the casting mold, and a position of the conductive material in the casting mold may be determined by a change in an electrical characteristic of the drive circuit.
US07828038B2 Universal lightweight portable concealment means and methods
An easy to use, universal, simple, lightweight, compact, portable system of concealment and methods for its construction and use. The concealment system comprises a support and a curtain. The support attaches to a structure and pivots on the attachment. Various embodiments include multiple supports and multiple curtains. A method of hiding in front of a similar pattern. An alternate support may be used to form both tree blinds and ground blinds.
US07828036B2 Wind sensing awning control having arm-mounted sensor
A powered awning assembly has an awning frame with a first side arm member having a first distal end and a first proximate end for attachment to a wall and a second side arm member having a second distal end and a second proximate end for attachment to a wall. A connecting member has a first end attached to the distal end of the first side arm and a second end attached to the distal end of the second side arm. A roll awning is attached to the awning frame. A wind sensor assembly is attached to one of the first side arm and the second side arm.
US07828033B2 Method of manufacturing multilayer capacitor and multilayer capacitor
A method of manufacturing a multilayer capacitor comprises a first layer forming step, a first electrode forming step, a second layer forming step, a second electrode forming step, a separation step, an element forming step and a terminal forming step. In the first layer forming step, a first ceramic green layer is formed on a supporting body. In the first electrode forming step, a first electrode pattern is formed on the first ceramic green layer. In the second layer forming step, a second ceramic green layer is formed laminated on the first ceramic green layer. In the second electrode forming step, a second electrode pattern is formed at the second ceramic green layer. In the separation step, the support body is separated from the laminated body. In the element forming step, elements are formed by laminating a plurality of the laminated bodies.
US07828031B2 Apparatus and method for aligning and fixing ribbon on a solar cell
An apparatus and a method are proposed for aligning and fixing a ribbon onto the groove of a solar cell for avoiding undue stress on the ribbon as well as crystal damage of the solar cells by hardening of the ribbon. The apparatus includes a frame, a leading arm, and a trailing arm, the leading and trailing arms being movably mounted on at least one linear guide arranged on said frame. The apparatus further provides for upward and downward movement of the at least one linear guide, and a shear for cutting said ribbon. Both the leading arm and the trailing arm have a gripper for gripping the ribbon. These grippers are provided to apply a predetermined longitudinal tension to the ribbon when the leading and trailing arms are moved relative to one another.
US07828028B2 Pneumatic tire for two-wheeled vehicle
Providing a pneumatic tire for two-wheeled vehicle which is capable of enhancing the braking performance and the high-speed turning performance, while assuring the ride comfort.The carcass has a semi-radial construction, whereby the necessary and minimum rigidity is ensured with the ride comfort being assured. In the crown part of the semi-radial bias carcass 16, a belt layer 26, which is a crossed belt layer, is provided, and inside of the tread end parts, a radial reinforcement band layer 22 in which a plurality of reinforcement cords 24 extending in the radial direction are arranged is provided. By disposing the radial reinforcement band layer 22, the section flexural rigidity (the flexural rigidity in the tire width direction) for the crown part is improved, and further the reinforcement cords 24 in the radial reinforcement band layer 22 restricts the pantograph (the rhombus) made up of the reinforcement cords 11 of the two carcass plies from being extended in the radial direction, which provides a great reinforcement effect. The cornerability at the time of banking depends particularly on the ground contactability for the tread end part, and in the present invention, no radial reinforcement band layer is added to the tread end part with priority being given to the ground contactability and the section flexural rigidity therefor being not increased, thus a high turning performance can be obtained.
US07828025B2 Apparatus for cleaning a wood chipper
Apparatus for limiting the amount of debris that is disbursed in and around a disc type wood chipper when the disc is being treated with high pressure air. The apparatus includes a casing that surrounds the chipper disc having a stationary section and a removable section that can be detached from the stationary section to provide access to about 90° of the disc. A shield is hinged to the stationary section of the disc that has a vertical wall and an arcuate cover that can be moved over the exposed section of the disc which contains and directs debris in the chippers exhaust system when removed by high pressure air that is directed at the front face of the disc.
US07828021B2 Method of storing (meth)acrylic ester
A method of storing (meth)acrylate in a tank of a less expensive and highly versatile material without losing stability of the stored (meth)acrylate. To be specific, a method of storing (meth)acrylate in a tank, including supplying an appropriate gas for storing (meth)acrylate into the tank, in which: the tank is made of a carbon steel material; the gas has a water concentration of 100 ppm or less; and the (meth)acrylate has a (meth)acrylic acid concentration of 30 ppm or less.
US07828019B2 Fabric for detecting vital signals from human body
A fabric for detecting vital signals from human body includes a layer of fabric and electrically conductive yarns. The layer of fabric is formed of weft and warp electrically insulating yarns woven together. Electrically conductive yarns is woven in parallel with weft or warp electrically insulating yarns and interval-spaced from one another. Each of the electrically conductive yarns has a wave-shaped detecting section. All wave crests of the wave-shaped detecting section are protruded out of a surface of the layer of fabric while all wave troughs of the wave-shaped detecting section are woven within the layer of fabric. Each of electrically conductive yarns has its all wave crests misaligned in position with all wave crests of its immediately adjacent electrically conductive yarn. Each of electrically conductive yarns has its all wave troughs misaligned in position with all wave troughs of its immediately adjacent electrically conductive yarn.
US07828018B2 Light diffusing yarn and surface-form structure
Four light-transmitting mono filaments each having an almost circular cross section and surface substantially being mirror surface are arranged in a single layer and in parallel, and a flat yarn formed by fusing or melt-bonding adjacent mono filaments to each other and fixing them is twisted. Twisting is imparted over a full length of a light diffusing yarn continuously at a frequency of more than one time with a length five times as long as the width of the flat yarn. The twisting cyclically reverses the front and rear surfaces of the flat yarn along the longitudinal direction of the light diffusing yarn to continuously change the longitudinal-axis direction of each mono filament along the longitudinal direction of the light diffusing yarn. Therefore, when parallel lights enter the light diffusing yarn, the center axis directions of conical-surface-like diffused lights differ from each other according to individual portions in the longitudinal direction of the light diffusing yarn even if the incident angle of the parallel lights is constant to produce wide-range diffusion light at one cycle of twisting.
US07828017B2 Valve tester suspension enhancements
A valve tester assembly is disclosed that includes an articulated arm assembly having a first end and a second end, with the second end of the articulated arm assembly being movable away from and toward the first end such that when the first end of the articulated arm assembly is connected to a vehicle, the second end of the articulated arm assembly is movable away from and toward the vehicle. The assembly includes a rotation mechanism that is mounted on the articulated arm assembly toward the second end of the articulated arm for rotating a shaft for exercising a valve. The assembly further includes a moving mechanism that is mountable on a vehicle for moving the first end of the articulated arm assembly away from and towards the vehicle.
US07828015B2 Adapter plate for fastening and locking of components
A stack or assembly of fluid, mechanical, and/or electrical components permits removal of some components for maintenance, without compromising the fluid integrity of the remainder of the assembly. A fastening bolt, attached to at least one fluid component, is screwed into a stacking bolt, attached to another fluid component, the bolts being screwed together inside the bore of an adapter plate. A resilient insert sits between the head of the stacking bolt and the bore. At least a portion of the bore has a continuous taper, such that the diameter of the bore decreases in the vicinity of the insert. The taper creates a reduced diameter hole on one surface of the adapter plate, thus preventing interference between fluid ports on an adjacent fluid component. The taper also prevents loss of the insert during transportation and storage, and prevents undesired extrusion of material of the insert when the components are fastened together.
US07828012B2 Port integrated within valve stem
A valve body defines a fluid passage and a valve sealing body is positioned there. The valve sealing body is operable between open and closed positions which allow for fluid-flow and non-flow, respectively. The valve stem has a free end and an engagement end where the engagement end engages the valve sealing body so that rotation of the valve stem operates the valve sealing body between the open and closed positions. A measurement passage is defined through the valve stem from the free end to the engagement end. The measurement passage is in fluid communication with the fluid passage when the valve sealing body is in the open position, and at least one sealing member is positioned within the measurement passage.
US07828011B2 Pneumatic safety valve
A pneumatic safety valve prevents dangerously rapid outflow of pressurized air in the event that an air hose ruptures or a pneumatic tool is accidentally decoupled from the hose downstream of the valve. The valve has an internal air conduit in fluid communication with the inlet and outlet ports. The air conduit cooperates with a pivotal flap that selectively closes to prevent a sudden discharge of air in the event of a hose rupture or an accidental decoupling of the pneumatic tool from the hose. By containing the highly pressurized air and preventing the air from rapid discharge, the valve prevents the air hose from flailing or whipping violently, thus eliminating the physical dangers to operators and other personnel in the vicinity of the rupture. This simple and inexpensive valve ensures safe containment of hose ruptures or of accidental disconnections of the pneumatic tool from the high-pressure hose.
US07828007B2 Automatic pump control device
An automatic pump control device for an injection pump used to inject fluid (typically methanol) into oil or natural gas wells to prevent freezing. The device enables the pump to operate at rates as low as one full stroke per 1.5 minutes (i.e., 0.67 stroke/min), substantially slower than current rates of approximately fifteen strokes per minute. The device comprises a main body; an extension air pilot; a retraction air pilot; a toggle mechanism that actuates the extension air pilot to extend the pump piston, that at the end of the extension stroke actuates a retraction air pilot to retract the pump piston, and that automatically continues the two stroke cycle; a drive mechanism for driving the toggle mechanism; an overstroke mechanism to prevent over driving the retraction air pilot at the end of its stroke; an optional stroke speed adjustment valve; a circuit to circulate and transport a gas; and piston, spool, and sleeve for switching the path of the gas. The automatic pump control device operates over a wide range of flow rates and pressure ranges, thus enabling installation of the automatic pump control device to virtually all manufacturers' injection pumps.
US07828000B2 Cosmetics vessel
A cosmetic case is provided. The cosmetic case includes: a first casing having a first container; a second casing which is connected with the first casing in a sliding manner, opens and closes the first container, and has a second container; and a third casing which is connected with the second casing, and opens and closes the second container, wherein, when the first container is open by sliding the second casing with respect to the first casing, the third casing is lifted at the same time, thereby opening the second container.
US07827995B2 Interlocking hookah pipe
An Interlocking Hookah Pipe is disclosed. The pipe incorporates a positively-lockable interface between the stem assembly and the base assembly of a hookah pipe. The interlocking stem assembly has an interlock element upon which are pins, channels or other interlocking features. The stem assembly further has a sealing gasket to seal to the base assembly. The base assembly includes a shoulder insert that inserts into the glass base jar and is then adhered thereto. The shoulder insert has interlocking features that cooperate with the interlocking features disposed on the stem assembly interlock element. The pins or channels creating the interlocking mechanism may be disposed on either the stem assembly or the shoulder insert.
US07827994B2 Method for producing a tobacco rod with a hollow passageway extending therethrough
The present invention is directed at various apparatus and methods for forming a sealed hollow core tobacco rod. The methods of the invention at least comprise passing a trimmed tobacco column and paper under a tongue that widens and flattens the column and paper; forming the tobacco and paper into a cylindrical shape; forming an inner hollow core; maintaining the hollow core shape; and outputting the sealed hollow core tobacco rod.
US07827993B2 Skin pressure reduction to prevent decubitus ulcers by partial magnetic levitation
A magnetic levitation system for immobile patients in a wheelchair is disclosed. A magnet multi-pole configuration that is mechanically stable is provided that lifts the body and/or load shifts (rotates the body from side to side) the body. Based on a multi-pole configuration of permanent magnets in the pelvis, a corresponding multi-pole configuration for magnet repulsion is placed below the patient, typically as part of the wheelchair. Alternatively, a unipolar repulsion with mechanical patient restraint is implemented to achieve body lift or levitation. Either permanent magnets or electromagnets, optionally with magnetic sensor-mediated active computerized feedback control below the body, are sufficient to implement a complete multi-pole repulsive configuration that is mechanically stable. The apparatus reduces compressive force on soft tissues disposed between a human pelvis and a wheelchair seat.
US07827988B2 Auto-titration pressure support system and method of using same
A pressure support system and method of treating disordered breathing that optimizes the pressure delivered to the patient to treat the disordered breathing while minimizing the delivered pressure for patient comfort. The controller in the pressure support system operates as a set of prioritized control layers, wherein each control layer competes for control of the pressure generating system to implement a unique pressure control process. The pressure support system also controls the pressure provided to the patient based on the variability of the monitored data and a trend analysis of this data, including an indication of the skewness of the patient's inspiratory waveform.
US07827985B2 Insertion aid for oral and nasal medical devices
An insertion aid device includes a handle to hold the insertion aid device and a tongue depressor to depress the tongue of the patient. A curved wedge-shaped tongue depressor maintains the patient's mouth in an open position.
US07827984B2 Inhaler device
The invention relates to a hand-held device for apportioned delivery of sprayable substances, in particular inhaler medicaments the device, having a cartridge which is displaceable by pressing in a housing into the open position for delivery, and an indexing mechanism which is moved along by the cartridge during the opening stroke of the cartridge for registering and displaying delivery actuations which have been carried out. The feeding mechanism, which indexing mechanism is disposed in a housing centrally below the opening-side end wall of the cartridge, overlappinqly with respect to the valve tube of the cartridge. In order to configure a hand-held device of the type in question in a spatially advantageous manner with a simplified construction and such that it is more reliable in terms of handling, it is proposed to displace plate-shaped housing as a whole with the cartridge, except for a step-by-step indexing finger star disposed therein.
US07827983B2 Method for making a pharmaceutically active ingredient abuse-prevention device
A method of making a pharmaceutically active ingredient abuse-prevention device includes providing a pharmaceutically active ingredient and providing an antagonist of the pharmaceutically active ingredient. The antagonist is in selective fluid communication with the pharmaceutically active ingredient. Electronic circuitry is configured to selectively operate the fluid communication between the antagonist and the pharmaceutically active ingredient so as to mix the pharmaceutically active ingredient with the antagonist upon recognition of one or more predetermined fault conditions. Mixing the pharmaceutically active ingredient with the antagonist renders the pharmaceutically active ingredient substantially ineffective.
US07827981B2 Method for reducing the work of breathing
The present invention relates to a method for reducing the work of breathing. Heated and humidified air is delivered through a nasal cannula to the nasal passageway of a patient at a flow rate above 20 liters/min thereby reducing inspiratory work.
US07827979B2 Arrow rest
Certain embodiments of the present invention provide an arrow rest usable with an archery bow to support an arrow shaft in a ready-to-draw position during the draw and until the release of the arrow by an archer. The arrow rest preferably aligns an elongate axis of the arrow shaft in a desired path which the arrow follows during release from the bow and at least initially towards the target. In certain embodiments, the arrow rest includes a support frame mounted to an archery bow riser. At least one resilient, inwardly extending support piece made from a sheet-based material extends across the frame to radially support portions of the arrow shaft. In use, arrow rests according to preferred embodiments of the present invention preferably support the arrow in place and impede the arrow from laterally escaping from the arrow rest.
US07827975B1 Direct-start engine operation utilizing multi-strike ignition
A method for operation of a vehicle having an internal combustion engine is provided. The internal combustion engine may include one or more combustion chambers, a fuel delivery system including a direct fuel injector coupled to each combustion chamber, an ignition system including one or more spark plugs coupled to each combustion chamber, a piston disposed within each combustion chamber, and an intake and an exhaust valve coupled to each combustion chamber, the internal combustion engine providing motive power to the vehicle. The method may include discontinuing combustion operation within the internal combustion engine responsive to idle-stop operation. The method may further include, during a direct-start, performing multi-strike ignition operation per combustion cycle via one or more selected spark plug(s) for at least a first combustion cycle in a combustion chamber following the discontinuation of combustion operation, the one or more selected spark plug(s) coupled to the combustion chamber.
US07827973B2 Integrated positive crankcase ventilation channel
An integrated positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) channel is formed along a structural weld line between two shell components that are welded together to form an air intake manifold. The integrated PCV channel can be used to uniformly distribute blow-by gases from the crankcase of an internal combustion engine to a plurality of combustion chambers via the air intake manifold.
US07827971B2 Engine assembly with fuel filter gas removal apparatus
An engine assembly may include an engine defining a cylinder bore, a fuel tank, a fuel supply assembly in fluid communication with the fuel tank and the cylinder bore, a fuel return assembly in fluid communication with the fuel supply assembly and the fuel tank, and a fuel filter assembly. The fuel filter assembly may include a filter casing having an inlet, an outlet and a bypass opening, and a filter media located within the filter casing. The filter media may be located between the inlet and the outlet, defining a dirty fuel region of the filter assembly between the inlet and the filter media and a clean fuel region between the filter media and the filter outlet. The bypass opening may be in fluid communication with the dirty fuel region and the fuel return assembly to draw gases out of the dirty fuel region.
US07827968B2 Direct injected fuel pump diagnostic systems and methods
An engine control system comprises a camshaft, a cam phaser module, a pressure sensor, and an engine control module. The camshaft is operably coupled to a crankshaft of an engine. Rotation of the camshaft operates a fuel pump in driving communication with a cam of the camshaft. The cam phaser module provides hydraulic pressure to change a rotational position of the cam about the camshaft. The pressure sensor determines a cam phaser pressure signal based on a pressure of fluid in the cam phaser module. The engine control module diagnoses a condition of the fuel pump based on the cam phaser pressure signal.
US07827961B2 Fluid pump
A pump is provided for pumping two or more different fluids. The pump comprises a body having a longitudinal bore and at least first and second inlets selectively communicating with and providing passage to the bore via non-return valves. A plunger is mounted for reciprocation within the bore and at least one piston is also mounted for reciprocation within the bore so as to permit at least one type of fluid to pass into the bore through one or both inlets.
US07827958B2 Gas exchange valve actuating device
In a gas exchange valve actuating device having a lever for transmitting a drive movement to at least one gas exchange valve of an engine braking control unit of an internal combustion engine, the internal combustion engine includes a compact braking control unit which is coupled to the valve operating lever for controlling actuation of the gas exchange valves in a braking mode of engine operation.
US07827955B2 Engine for leisure vehicle
An engine for a leisure vehicle including a crank chamber in which a crankshaft is disposed, a transmission chamber in which a transmission unit of the vehicle is disposed, the transmission unit having an input shaft that is coupled to the crankshaft and configured to be driven by the crankshaft, a cylinder extending from the crank chamber, and a cylinder head attached to the cylinder. The crank chamber is located above the transmission chamber, and the cylinder is disposed in such a manner that an axial direction thereof is oriented in a substantially longitudinal direction of a vehicle body of the leisure vehicle.
US07827953B2 Switchable support element for a valve train of an internal combustion engine
The invention proposes a switchable support element (1) for a valve train of an internal combustion engine, said support element comprising a housing (2) in whose bore (3) an axially displaceable inner element (4) is received, a coupling means (6) extending in the inner element (4) can be brought partially into engagement with an entraining surface (7) of the housing (2) for achieving coupling, and said support element (1) further comprising at least one vertical stop means (10) that overlaps an annular groove (9) between the inner element (4) and the housing (2) for defining a coupling position of said coupling means (6) with coupling lash relative to said entraining surface (7), the vertical stop means (10) is constituted by at least one thin-walled ring comprising a slot (11), the ring is placed or slipped, slot (11) ahead, onto an outer peripheral surface (12) of the housing (2) to extend parallel to a transverse plane of the support element (1), the housing (2) comprises at least one aperture (13) through which an inner peripheral segment (14) of the ring extends, a longitudinal groove (16) extends in the outer peripheral surface (15) of the inner element (4), and an underside (18) of the inner peripheral segment (14) comes to abut against a lower end (17) of said groove for defining the coupling position.
US07827951B2 Gas exchange valve actuating apparatus
In a gas exchange valve operating apparatus with at least one overhead camshaft for actuating the gas exchange valves, with a hydraulic medium supply passage extending through the camshaft and with at least one hydraulic switchable support unit cooperating with a lever-like cam follower which is disposed on a switchable support unit and on a gas exchange valve and is furthermore in contact with the overhead camshaft, the support unit is disposed in communication with at least one pressure medium supplied via the hydraulic medium supply passage of the camshaft.
US07827948B2 Variable valve timing control apparatus of internal combustion engine
A variable valve timing control apparatus of an internal combustion engine has a drive rotary member rotated by an engine crankshaft, a driven rotary member fixedly connected to a camshaft and transferring a turning force from the drive rotary member to the camshaft, and a phase-change mechanism changing a relative rotational phase between the drive and driven rotary members and having an intermediate rotary member installed between the drive and driven rotary members for a relative rotational phase control. The variable valve timing control apparatus further has a holding mechanism and a releasing mechanism. The holding mechanism forces the intermediate rotary member and holds the relative rotational phase between the drive and driven rotary members, and the releasing mechanism releases a holding state of the holding mechanism.
US07827946B2 Engine valve lifter mechanism of internal combustion engine
An upper surface of a head part of a valve lifter has a predetermined turn back portion at which, with a variable valve control device kept controlled to induce a maximum lift of an engine valve, a swing stroke of a rounded cam surface of a swing cam relative to the upper surface of the head part changes a traveling direction from a radially outward direction for opening the engine valve to a radially inward direction for closing the engine valve. An inlet end part of an oil hole formed in the head part is placed at a radially inside position of the upper surface other than a position where side edges of the rounded cam surface of the swing cam are in contact with the inlet end part of the oil hole when the rounded cam surface is placed in the vicinity of the turn back portion.
US07827938B2 Method for operating a feces conveyor device
A system and method for operating a manure conveyor device. The method includes driving a first return roller about which a manure conveyor belt circulates at a first rotational speed, and driving a second return roller about which the manure conveyor belt circulates at a second rotational speed. During a first interval the first rotational speed exceeds the second rotational speed, and during a second interval the second rotational speed exceeds the first rotational speed.
US07827937B1 Marine line form habitat
Providing underwater marine structures having a primary component of sedimentary rock of biochemical origin that is fixated into an assemblage forming structure that is anchored into the marine environment to foster establishment of a reef ecosystem.
US07827935B1 Restricted access animal feeder utilizing vibratory means to deter access to food
A restricted animal access feeder which includes the concept of having vibratory means and noise emitting means which will scare an animal away from eating food in a desired dish. The vibratory means and noise emitting means are generated by closing of a magnetic circuit so that the vibratory mechanism and noise activating mechanism is activated. An animal who is desired not to eat from a specific food dish will wear a specific magnetic collar that will close the activation circuit. An animal that does not have such collar will not close the activation circuit and therefore, will have access to the food. The invention also includes means to enable the magnet to detach from a magnetic object so that the animal will not be permanently attached to a magnetic object such as a refrigerator.
US07827934B2 Cattle management method and system
An automated method and system for individual animal electronic identification, measurement, and management of cattle in a feedlot. Through the use of a computer system integrated with individual animal identification, multiple measurement and remeasurement systems, and a handling and sorting system, animals are individually identified and measured. The computer system calculates optimum slaughter weight, economic end point and marketing date for shipment to a packing plant. Individual animals are sorted by the computer in response to calculations from the measurements. The computer system stores individual animal measurement, performance and location data, which is used to select animals for shipment to slaughter at the optimum time. At the slaughter facility, the animal's identification is used to correlate the live animal physical characteristics and performance data to the carcass characteristics data and build a database to more accurately identify and measure value-based characteristics in subsequent animals for more effective selection and management.
US07827933B2 Combination of a teat cup and a flexible milk tube, a coupling piece, and a method of monitoring the integrity of the flexible milk tube
A combination of a teat cup and a flexible milk tube is shown. The flexible milk tube has a main duct and a plurality of secondary ducts for discharging milk from the teat cup and for applying vacuum in the teat cup. The main duct is confined by a duct wall extending around the main duct. The secondary ducts are included in the duct wall of the main duct. By including the plurality of secondary ducts in the duct wall of the main duct the flexible milk tube as a whole has a smaller cross-section than that of the known milk tube. The plurality of secondary ducts no longer need separate duct walls forming separate tubes either connected or not with the flexible milk tube comprising the main duct. This results in space saving.
US07827931B2 Plasma processor electrode and plasma processor
A plasma processor electrode includes a support member disposed to face to an electrode that holds a substrate to be treated, an electrode plate fixed to the support member and equipped with gas injection holes and a screw hole open and facing to the support member to supply a processing gas through the gas discharge hole into a processing space formed between the electrode plate and the electrode to generate a plasma in the processing space, and a fastening unit that clamps the electrode plate on the support member by fastening the electrode plate to the support member with a screw driven into the screw hole from the support member.
US07827928B2 Tactile warning pad with shearable anchor members
A tactile warning pad composed of a polymer material, the pad comprising contact structures on its upper surface and embedded shearable anchor members in the form of a corrugated mesh webbing, wherein the upper portions of the mesh webbing are embedded within the pad and the lower portions of the mesh webbing extend below the pad, such that the pad may be positioned atop an uncured concrete base with the lower portions of the mesh webbing embedded within the concrete, and further such that the anchor members retain the pad on the concrete base once the concrete has hardened, and further such that the pad is removable from the concrete by shearing the anchor members at the interface between the concrete base and the polymer pad using a bladed shearing implement.
US07827926B2 Profiled pontoon for watercraft
A pontoon for a watercraft. The pontoon has a vertical inboard side and a generally angled bottom defined by the inboard side height of the pontoon being greater than its outboard side height. The bottom has planing surfaces that define one or more channels, which produce lift upon the watercraft increasing its speed on water. An inboard horizontal planing surface allows relatively low speed planing.
US07827924B1 Boat mooring device
A mooring device is disclosed for securing a boat to an object. The boat has a first cleat and the object has a second cleat. The mooring device comprises a bar having a proximal end and a distal end. A first clamp integral to the proximal end of the bar engages the first cleat. A second clamp integral to the distal end of the bar engaging the second cleat. The first clamp and the second clamp couple the bar between the first cleat and the second cleat for securing the boat to the object.
US07827921B2 Tilting nestable table and chair set
A portable chair and table set is provided that is tiltable and nestable to simplify and accommodate compact storage. The chair includes a seat shell that is pivotably mounted to a nestable support frame. Hinges connect the shell to the frame and are configured to hold the seat shell in a tilted configuration for storage. In this tilted configuration, several chairs can be horizontally nested so that the overall length of the nest chairs is minimized. Similarly, the table includes a table top having a unitary desk surface and modesty panel that is pivotably mounted to a support frame by hinges that are configured to hold the table top in a tilted configuration that allows horizontal nesting of several tables in a minimal overall length. The hinges can be easily disengaged by manual movement of the table top to its in use position.
US07827920B2 Work space management and furniture system
A system for defining a plurality of work zones within an otherwise open area. The system includes a framework formed from a plurality of spaced apart poles extending upward from a base surface. The poles are interconnected by a plurality of crossbeams at a height substantially above a standing user. At least some of the poles are adapted to provide a raceway for the delivery of utilities. The framework is capable of being arranged in a plurality of substantially non-linear patterns and includes an at least partially open area between adjacent poles.
US07827919B2 Multiple track railroad system
A multiple track railroad system for use with two adjacent sets of parallel continuous tracks with the tracks having a distance therebetween and each set of tracks including two continuous rails having a distance therebetween. The railroad system includes an engine for pulling a train that has a set of wheels riding on at least two of the rails, and the engine has a width equal to at least one set of the tracks. The railroad system also includes at least one rail car connected to and propelled by the engine, wherein the rail car spans and extends beyond the outer rails of both sets of tracks. The railroad system further includes at least four car-trucks supporting the rail car, with two of the car-trucks on each of the sets of tracks, and each car-truck includes at least four wheels, with two wheels each riding on opposing rails of a set of the tracks; and trundle carrier assemblies, one each mounted to a bolster on each of the car-trucks with the upper end of the carrier assemblies being attached to the rail car to permit the car-trucks to move vertically or horizontally transverse on the tracks relative to the rail car to accommodate variations in the elevation or distance between the tracks.
US07827917B1 Redundant steering system for guideway vehicle
A guideway system and method of operating a guideway is included comprising a guideway with entrance and exit ramps and vehicles having both a smooth, servo-based primary steering systems based upon proximity sensing of the side of the guideway and a backup mechanical steering system. The backup steering system is selectively engaged and disengaged based on location with respect to the entrance and exit ramps and provides vehicle wheel steering in the event of a failure of the primary servo steering system. The backup steering comprises one or more vertical members affixed to the guideway and one or more steering elements engageable with the member(s). The elements may be pivoted into and out of backup steering engagement.
US07827912B2 Hybrid optical head for direct engraving of flexographic printing plates
An optical imaging head for direct engraving of flexographic printing plates, comprising: at least two groups of radiation sources, each group comprising at least one radiation source, wherein the radiation sources within each group emit radiation having the same intensity and spot size, different from the intensity and spot size of radiation sources in the other groups, said groups of radiation sources operating simultaneously.
US07827904B2 Apparatus and method for brewer control
A beverage making apparatus, method, method of using such a beverage making apparatus and method of cleaning a beverage making apparatus is disclosed. The beverage making apparatus includes a liquid basin (16) for receiving a quantity of liquid and is in communication with a reservoir (20) for retaining a volume of heated liquid. A control valve (40) is provided and positioned for communication with the basin and reservoir for controlling flow of liquid from the basin to the reservoir. A controller (14) is coupled to the control valve for at least selectively operating the control valve for selectively controlling the flow of liquid from the basin to the reservoir. The control valve can be selectively operated to produce a generally continuous flow of liquid from the basin to the reservoir or may be controller for multiple dispensings of liquid from the basin to the reservoir during a brewing cycle. A liquid delivery assembly shown in one form as a tube (18) which communicates with the reservoir and a beverage substance retaining funnel (28) is provided without any interruptions along its length. The absence of any control devices along the length of the tube allows for particles, lime and other mineral deposits to be removed from the tube along its entire length extending from a spray head to a port in the reservoir.
US07827903B2 Fluid operated device with improved seal valve
A seal valve arrangement is provided for a hydraulic device (10). The hydraulic device has an inner bore (14). The seal valve arrangement includes an element (45) disposed in the bore. The element is constructed and arranged to define a fluid passage (47) so fluid can move from one side thereof to a side opposite the one side. An elastomer seal member (39) is adjacent to the fluid passage and to a seal portion (r) of the element. A spring member (41) biases the seal member to engage the portion (r) to maintain sealing of the fluid passage under certain fluid pressure conditions, and under different fluid pressure conditions, permits the seal member disengage from the portion of the element to open the fluid passage. A tipping point is disclosed as a point when a fluid pressure condition alone causes the seal member (39) to fully engage the portion of the element and fully seal the fluid passage.
US07827897B2 Light ballistic protection as building elements
The present invention concerns a ballistic protection against objects such as projectiles from fire arms, alternatively scatter from for example hand grenades. The protection comprises an enclosure (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9) adapted so that the object (10) can penetrate the enclosure (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9) in at least one area (2); at least one intermediate layer (3) comprising granules (27) arranged within the enclosure (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9), which intermediate layer (3) and enclosure (1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9) are arranged to decelerate said object (10). The invention is further characterized in that: the granules (27) are movable arranged with respect to each other; the space in the intermediate layer (3) that is not occupied by granules (27) is filled by a gas medium to enable contact between adjacent granules (27); the granules (27) have mechanical properties so that a granule (27) is crushed and spread in the intermediate layer (3) when it is hit by an object (10), at the same time as adjacent granules (27) are subjected to impulses with a subsequent energy dissipation so that the object and fragments thereof remains in the protection with a reduced risk for ricochets.
US07827896B2 Firearm remote cocking method and arrangement
A remote cocking and charging device for a weapon on a mount, the weapon having a bore axis and a rope actuated cocking and charging mechanism having a rope end exiting from the weapon. The device includes a first rotatable pulley having an axis of rotation fixedly connected to the mount and positioned adjacent to and below an exit point of the rope from the weapon positioned in the mount, a second rotatable pulley having an axis of rotation fixedly connected to the weapon mount and positioned below and spaced from the first pulley, and a linearly moveable actuator arm having a longitudinal axis situated substantially in a plane and substantially parallel to the bore axis, the actuator arm at an end thereof including a rope engagement element.
US07827895B2 Safety elastic rope
A safety elastic rope includes an elastic outer tubular rope having two longitudinally opposite first fixing ends, and an elastic inner rope inserted into the outer tubular rope and having two longitudinally opposite second fixing ends. The inner rope is more elastic than the outer tubular rope, and has substantially the same length as the outer tubular rope. The second fixing ends are connected respectively to the first fixing ends.
US07827891B1 Device for cutting a work piece in a transport line
A shears device including a rolling table, a rail-guided drive carriage coupled with the rolling table, a U-shaped frame mounted on the drive carriage, and a drive apparatus arranged on the drive carriage for driving the shears. The frame has a first side adjacent the drive apparatus and a second side opposite the first side on which holding elements for the shears are provided. At least one of the holding elements on the second side of an upper of the horizontal arms includes a pressure plate. A drive is provided for moving the drive carriage transverse to the transport line. A clamping element is arranged at the second side of the frame and has congruent gliding plates that overlap the pressure plate. The clamping element together with the gliding plates is movable along a horizontal path across the pressure plate to couple the clamping element and the holding element.
US07827890B2 Table saws with safety systems and systems to mount and index attachments
Table saws having a mounting system configured to hold a riving knife or splitter adjacent a blade. The mounting system includes a clamping structure having a handle adapted to pivot between a first position where the clamping structure is open and a second position where the clamping structure is closed, and where the handle can be pivoted from the first position to the second position by hand without using tools. The clamping structure may include a spring to help open the clamp.
US07827887B2 Ratchet wrench
A ratchet wrench allowing ratcheting rotations for applying a series of turning strokes to a bolt without disengaging between the strokes. The ratchet wrench has a wrench body and a ratcheting jaw. The wrench body has a head and a curved slot. The head has an inner surface. The curved slot is formed in the inner surface of the head. The ratcheting jaw is slidably mounted in the curved slot for applying a torque to a blot head during a rotation in the forward direction as well as for ratcheting rotation during a backward rotation.
US07827885B2 Drive extension wrench
An driver extension wrench having a pair of elongate housing members with openings at opposing ends of the housing members, with a plurality of interior posts at a predetermine spacing. The openings have sockets with exterior gear teeth. Gears are mounted on each of the posts and cooperate with each other and the sockets so that rotational force applied to the first opening is transmitted through the gears to the second opening to be applied to a fastener.
US07827881B2 Bicycle pedal
A pedal with a body has two opposing plates on different sides of the pedal that can be easily removed or displaced by sliding to access the inner surfaces of the pedal and the backside of traction pins. In this way, traction pins can be replaced even after the pins have been worn out or broken.
US07827878B2 Bevel gear mechanism, especially bevel spur-gear mechanism
A bevel gear mechanism, especially a bevel spur-gear mechanism having one or more gear mechanism stages, including a gear mechanism housing that surrounds the gear mechanism stages, and a motor cage, which is connected via a spacer flange to the gear mechanism housing, and is connected to an electric motor. The drive side shaft of the bevel gear mechanism stage is supported in a flanged bushing. Spacer flange and drive side end wall of the gear mechanism housing have a common bore. The common bore extends around the flanged bushing of the drive side shaft. The flanged bushing has a cylindrical outer surface that centers the gear mechanism housing, the spacer flange and the flanged bushing. Furthermore, the flanged bushing, the spacer flange and the drive side end wall are interconnected by screws.
US07827877B2 Gear-rolling apparatus
A gear-rolling apparatus includes two gear units and a base. Each gear unit has a rolling portion, a rolling shaft extends from the rolling portion, a clicking column and two location columns extend from edges of a free end of the rolling shaft along an axle direction of the rolling shaft. The clicking column and the two location columns are spaced out from each other to form three grooves therebetween, a clicking clasp extends inward from the top of the clicking column. The clicking clasp has an inclined inner surface which inclines inward from top to bottom. The two rolling shafts are inserted into the hole of the base, the clicking column of one of the rolling shafts mates the groove opened between the location columns of the other rolling shaft, the location columns of one of the rolling shafts mate the grooves opened between the clicking column and the location columns of the other rolling shaft respectively, bottom surfaces of the two clicking clasps are against each other.
US07827875B2 Gyro precessional automatic transmission
An automatic transmission consisting of a planetary gear unit comprising in combination an input shaft (1), an input gear (2), a key planet gear (3), an output gear (4), an output shaft (5), a bearing planet gear (6), a rotating frame (7), a rotor (8), wherein the planet shaft is the rotor (8) having a certain inertia moment, so its revolving is equivalent to the precession of a gyroscope due to an external force wherein the precession-production external force is the load acting on the output shaft (5). Hence the revolutionary speed of the rotor (8) varies depending upon changes in the output load and the same holds true for the rotational speed of the output shaft (5), which makes the speed ratio spontaneously vary with changes in the outpot load. Accordingly, the transmission of the present invention operates at speed ratios spontaneously varying with changes in load, without any controlling operation.
US07827871B2 Antifriction bearing provided with polymer electronics
An antifriction bearing provided with sensors for recording physical quantities that act upon the hearing and with strip conductors and electronic components for evaluating and/or transmitting sensor output signals or characteristic values derived therefrom to electrical or electronic devices located outside of the bearing. To this end, the sensors, strip conductors and electronic components are placed on at least one bearing part while forming a measurement data recording and/or measurement data processing system. The sensors, strip conductors and/or electronic components are made from at least one electrically conductive or semiconducting organic material.
US07827870B2 Meter
A fluidic oscillator liquid flow meter comprising a body having an inlet portion to receive a flow of liquid to be measured, an outlet portion, a main channel defining a flow path between the inlet and outlet, the flow path including feedback structure to induce oscillations in the flowing fluid, the oscillations being detected by detector comprising means to apply a magnetic field across the flow path and sensing electrodes to detect the resulting e.m.f., the electrodes being positioned such that they protrude from the body into the flow path. A meter having driving signal means, which applies an alternating driving signal to the sensing electrodes, is also disclosed.
US07827869B2 Multiphase flowmeter for measuring each phase flow rate of a three-phase flow consisting of gas and two kinds of liquid
In order to extract a part of a three-phase flow from a pipe line, a pair of communication pipes, which are connected to upstream and downstream sides of an orifice provided in the pipe line, and a gas-liquid extraction tank are used. Flowing of a slag flow or the like into the pipe line causes a periodical change in a pressure difference between input and output sides of the orifice. This causes extraction of gas-liquid and discharge mainly of gas to be simultaneously effected in the pair of communication pipes and the gas-liquid extraction tank. Within the gas-liquid extraction tank, the gas-liquid is forcibly shaken horizontally, vertically, etc. for agitating, whereby gas-liquid of high liquid-phase rate remains. Then, the gas is removed from this gas-liquid of high liquid-phase rate to thereby extract mixture liquid, which is accumulated in a liquid storage tank. The mixture liquid flows from the liquid storage tank in an amount required at a Coriolis meter. As a result, high precision density measurement is performed at the Coriolis meter.
US07827861B2 Position correction in sodar and meteorological lidar systems
A system and method for correcting wind speed and direction data collected by a sodar or lidar apparatus for the orientation and/or position of the apparatus. There are sensors mounted to the sodar or lidar apparatus that detect the orientation and position of the apparatus. Software is used to adjust in situ the calculations of wind speeds and directions in three dimensions for deviations from some nominal orientation. Software and data structures can be used to cause the inclusion of the orientation and position of the system with the collected data.
US07827858B2 System for estimating the maximum adherence coefficient by measuring stresses in a tire tread
A system for estimating the maximal grip coefficient μ in the contact area of a tire on a road. A tire tread is fitted with at least one tread sensor for measuring at least the tangential stresses which the tread experiences locally when the tire rolls on the ground. A signal processing unit and means for transmitting to the processing unit at least one signal delivered by the tread sensor are provided. The processing unit comprises means for finding in the signal the values corresponding to the sensor passing through the contact area of the tire on the ground, means for calculating an instantaneous value of a preselected criterion as a function of a series of values chosen from those relating to the sensor passing through the contact area, and means for extracting an estimate of the maximal grip coefficient μ by using the said instantaneous value.
US07827857B2 Method for estimating the crank angle at which 50% of the fuel mass has been burnt in a cylinder of an internal combustion engine with spontaneous mixture ignition
An estimation method of the crank angle at which 50% of the fuel mass has been burnt in a cylinder of an internal combustion engine with spontaneous ignition of the mixture provided with a drive shaft coupled to a phonic wheel presenting a number N of teeth; the method contemplates the steps of: reading the passage of each tooth of the phonic wheel in front of a sensor; determining the angular speed of the drive shaft at each tooth event of the phonic wheel; determining at least one harmonic of the speed signal; determining an inverse mechanical model of the transmission; determining at least one torque harmonic by applying the inverse mechanical model to the speed signal harmonic; determining an algebraic function which puts a combustion index into relation with the phase of the nth torque harmonic; and determining the combustion index by applying the algebraic function to the nth torque harmonic.
US07827850B2 Gas-liquid two-phase flow chromatographic analyzer and method of analysis using the same analyzer
This invention provides a chromatographic apparatus comprising an introduction part for a carrier gas as a main mobile phase medium, a sample injection part, a separation column comprising a stationary phase formed by coating a polymeric material, a part for housing the separation column, and a detector. The sample injection part is provided between the carrier gas introduction part and the inlet of the separation column. The chromatographic apparatus further comprises a solvent introduction means for adding a liquid solvent as a second mobile phase medium to a carrier gas and mixing them together, a mechanism for regulating the amount of the carrier gas introduced and the amount of the solvent added, and a mechanism for regulating the temperature of each flow passage. A plurality of clogging liquid stoppers, of which the liquid film thickness is equal to the inner diameter of a capillary column, are partly provided at predetermined intervals within the column in a longitudinal direction of the column. In such a state that a gas phase and a liquid phase are intermittently alternated, a mobile phase medium is moved toward a column outlet and a sample is separated by utilizing distribution between the solvent liquid film of the mobile phase medium and the column stationary phase. There is also provided a chromatographic analytical method utilizing this apparatus. According to this method, a sample can be separated without using any high pressure pump.
US07827848B2 Oxygen sensor and method for manufacturing the oxygen sensor
An oxygen sensor and a method for manufacturing the oxygen sensor are provided. The oxygen sensor includes a zirconia layer having first and second sides. The second side is opposite the first side. The oxygen sensor further includes a first electrode disposed on the first side of the zirconia layer. The oxygen sensor further includes a second electrode disposed on the second side of the zirconia layer. The oxygen sensor further includes a porous channel structure configured to route air therethrough to the first electrode while preventing hydrocarbons from flowing therethrough and contacting the first electrode, such that a signal between the first and second electrodes is indicative of an amount of oxygen in exhaust gases contacting the second electrode.
US07827847B2 Gas sensor
This gas sensor is provided with: a detection element that measures a gas concentration of a detection target gas contained in an examination gas; a substrate having a heating element; and a supporting member that is fixed to the substrate, protrudes from the heating element, and supports the detection element.
US07827843B2 Device for controlling the drawing process in a transfer press
A device for controlling the drawing process in a transfer press has two tool parts which act in opposition to one another and between which the workpiece to be deformed is held. One tool part is moved between two reversal points by a mechanical crank mechanism driven at a constant rotational speed. The second tool part is connected to the piston of a hydraulic differential cylinder via a piston rod. The movement of the piston is controlled by the supply of pressure medium into a first chamber and by the discharge of pressure medium out of the second chamber of the differential cylinder. During a first time segment within a range delimited by the first and the second reversal point, the rod-side face of the piston is acted upon by a pressure which is sufficiently high to accelerate the second tool part as that, when the two tool parts impinge one onto the other, both tool parts move virtually at the same speed.
US07827842B2 Hot forging facility
A hot forging facility enabling the manufacture of a hot forged product excellent in fatigue properties and cold workability is provided. A heating furnace for heating a steel material and a hot forging apparatus for performing forging of the heated steel material are sequentially arranged on a transport line. A partially cooling apparatus/apparatuses for partially cooling a forged product after hot forging is provided on an exit side of the hot forging apparatus.
US07827841B2 Method of and system for processing different sized long products
A method of processing different sized long products delivered from a rolling mill, comprising forming products within a first range of sizes into helical formations of rings having a first diameter, and alternatively forming products within a second range of sizes larger than the largest product size within said first range into helical formations of rings having a second diameter larger than said first diameter. The helical formations of rings are deposited on a conveyor for transport to a reforming station where they are gathered into coils.
US07827839B2 Profile element pipe for hydraulic bulging, hydraulic bulging device using the element pipe, hydraulic bulging method using the element pipe, and hydraulically bulged product
According to a bulging device and a bulging method using a profile element pipe, for example, even when a profile steel pipe having a cross sectional shape varying in the axial direction as in a tapered pipe is hydraulically bulged, a bulging in which an internal pressure loading and an axial pressing are combined with each other can be performed to provide a larger expansion ratio than a conventional case and a joining and socket connection thereof to the other part can also be easily performed.
US07827838B2 Pulsed electro-hydraulic calibration of stamped panels
A tooling method for calibrating a partially formed metal part in an electro-hydraulic forming tool. The method includes loading a partially formed metal part onto a forming surface of a die. The part is then clamped onto the forming surface and the part is pulsed with a high rate energy pulse to overcome a spring-back effect in the part. The EHF calibration tool includes a punch to which a part is held by clamps while a capacitive discharge circuit is discharged through electrodes provided in the tool. Upon discharge of the capacitive discharge circuit through the electrodes, a high rate energy pulse is applied through a liquid to calibrate the part.
US07827836B2 Power release double-locking latch
A power-release door lock system for an automotive door having a latch, including a ratchet (18) and pawl (20), and an electro-mechanical exterior latch release mechanism (220) for actuating the pawl to release the ratchet. The system includes a controller (210) and a pressure sensitive switch (216) mounted to an outside door handle (214) of the automotive door and electrically connected to the controller. The controller is programmed to disable the pressure sensitive switch in response to a predetermined “lock” signal and enable the pressure sensitive switch in response to a pre-determined “unlock” signal, in which case the controller energizes the exterior latch release mechanism to release the ratchet in the event the pressure sensitive switch is actuated. The system eliminates the need for an exterior lock assembly and its attendant inside lock button or rod.
US07827834B2 Bearing housing assembly of drum-type washing machine and drum-type washing machine with the same
A bearing housing assembly and drum-type washing machine having the same are provided. Bearings are received in the bearing housing assembly. The bearing housing assembly may be formed by insert injection molding, and a damper for damping vibration of a drum may be connected to a tub by a damper bracket.
US07827830B2 Washing machine having filtering lifters
Disclosed herein is a washing machine that includes a lifter capable of removing foreign matter from water while agitating laundry. The washing machine includes a tub containing water supplied from an outside source, a drum disposed inside the tub, a lifter body mounted to the drum; a filtering unit disposed in the lifter body to collect foreign matter from wash water as it circulates within the machine, and a water supply part guiding the water being introduced from the tub to the filtering unit of the lifter
US07827829B2 Elastic fabric and elastic face material
An elastic fabric useable for covering pillows, seats, mattresses and the like is disclosed. The fabric is formed from elastic yarns having a breaking elongation greater than 60%, a rate of elastic recovery after 15% elongation of more than 90% and a stress at 10% elongation greater than 150 N/5 cm and less than 600 N/5 cm oriented in a direction parallel to the elastic yarn, and a rate of hysteresis loss between 20% and 45%. The fabric may be woven or knitted and provides a stable, comfortable feeling for sitting or reclining and deforms when supporting weight but returns readily to its undeformed shape.
US07827825B2 Tool-holder device for cooperating with glass
A tool holder device supporting at least one tool configured to collaborate with at least one substrate positioned on edge. The tool holder device makes the tool move translationally and rotationally relative to the substrate, it being possible for the substrate to be moved translationally relative to the tool as the tool is operating. Collaboration between the tool and the substrate occurs with or without contact relative to the edge face of the substrate.
US07827823B2 Optical glass, precision press-molding preform, process for producing the preform, optical element and process for producing the element
An optical glass having high refractivity and a low sag temperature and having a low-temperature softening property that enables precision press-molding is provided, and the optical glass contains, by mol %, 5 to 50% of B2O3, 3 to 50% of SiO2, 5 to 40% of TiO2, 1 to 40% of ZnO, 5 to 20% of La2O3, 0 to 10% of Gd2O3, 0 to 15% of Nb2O5, 0 to 10% of ZrO2, 0 to 5% of Ta2O5, 0 to 10% of Bi2O3, 0 to 10% of MgO, 0 to 8% of CaO, 0 to 10% of SrO, 0 to 10% of BaO, provided that the total content of MgO, CaO, SrO and BaO is 15% or less, 0 to 20% of Li2O, and 0 to 5% of Na2O, optionally containing Sb2O3 as a refining agent, and having a refractive index (nd) of 1.8 or more and an Abbe's number (νd) of 35 or less.
US07827819B2 Indoor unit of an air conditioner
An indoor unit of an air conditioner is capable of both enhancing the design thereof and preventing the reduction of the air blowing performance. The indoor unit of an air conditioner has a front grill and a design panel. The front grill is provided with an outlet. A front panel covers the outlet in the front view during shutdown, and moves so as to open the outlet during operation.
US07827818B2 Conveyor belt having rotating drive shaft
An apparatus and method for processing products by chilling or freezing includes a conveyor for conveying the products along a plane of travel; lifting means disposed for intermittent contact with the conveyor during processing; cam means rotatable for contacting and displacing the lifting means to contact and displace the conveyor from the plane of travel, thereby displacing the products on the conveyor to prevent the products from adhering to the conveyor and other of the products; and drive means operatively associated with the cam means to impart rotational movement to the cam means for intermittently contacting and displacing the lifting means.
US07827816B2 Front cover for transport refrigeration unit
A transport refrigeration unit has a front cover that includes a grille supported by and attached to a surround assembly by means of latch members.
US07827815B2 Apparatus and method for cooling liquid in intravascular cooling system
A portable apparatus and method for providing a cooled liquid for vascular administration are disclosed. The portable apparatus includes a source of liquid for vascular administration, a cooling reservoir for receiving liquid from the source, and a sorption-based heat exchanger for cooling liquid in the cooling reservoir by a sorption-based process. The heat exchanger may include an evaporative area for receiving and vaporizing a refrigerant, a sorptive material for sorping vaporized refrigerant, and a heat exchange member for conducting thermal energy from liquid in the cooling reservoir into the evaporative area. Additional componentry may be provided for fluidly interconnecting and controlling the flow of liquid from the source to the cooling reservoir and from the cooling reservoir to a vascular interface device. Such componentry may be conveniently packaged in a sterilized manner together with at least the cooling reservoir.
US07827813B2 Adaptive real-time optimization control
Systems and methods to regulate the amount of outdoor air that is introduced into a building. These systems and methods determine the mechanical load requirements based on adaptive control functionality. These systems and methods utilize extremum seeking control logic to vary the flow of outdoor air into the building in response to these load determinations.
US07827811B2 Refrigerator control including a hidden features menu
A refrigerator includes a cabinet within which is defined a fresh food compartment and/or a freezer compartment. The refrigerator further includes a control panel or user interface that enables a consumer to input desired operating parameters. The interface is also provided with a plurality of temperature control elements and at least one auxiliary control element. The temperature control elements enable a consumer to set compartment temperatures in a first or basic mode. The auxiliary control element, in addition to serving a function in the basic mode, provides access to a hidden or advanced features menu. Once the hidden menu is accessed, the temperature control elements enable a consumer to select and adjust advanced operating parameters, such as enabling a Sabbath mode, setting a temperature display, altering an intensity of ambient light required to activate a dispenser light, activating an audible warm alarm and initiating a super cool feature.
US07827810B2 Air conditioner
An air conditioner includes a case having an inlet provided at a front surface thereof to suck in air and an outlet provided at a lower surface thereof to discharge the air, and at least one displaying member provided at an outer border of the inlet so as to display operating information and control operation of the air conditioner.
US07827809B2 Flash tank design and control for heat pumps
A method includes operating a compressor with a vapor injection system and selectively supplying vapor to the compressor during compressor operation through actuation of a first control valve. The method further includes closing the first control valve to prevent vapor from entering the compressor for a first predetermined time period leading up to stopping operation of the compressor and stopping the compressor with the first control valve in the closed position. The compressor is started with the first control valve in the closed position and the first control valve is maintained in the closed position for a second predetermined time period following starting of the compressor. The first control valve is opened to supply vapor to the compressor after the second predetermined time period.
US07827804B2 Process for production of electric energy and CO2 from a hydrocarbon feedstock
A process for production of electric energy and CO2 from a hydrocarbon feedstock includes steams reforming of the feedstock, separation and combustion of hydrogen and separation of CO2.
US07827802B2 Variable-section flow mixer for a double-flow turbojet for a supersonic airplane
The invention relates to a variable-section flow mixer for a double-flow turbojet for a supersonic airplane, the mixer comprising a central body, a primary cover, a secondary cover, and a nozzle extending the secondary cover. The nozzle has a plurality of external-air admission openings having mounted therein lobes that are movable between two positions: a closed position in which they close the openings; and a deployed position in which they disengage said openings and deploy into the nozzle so as to allow external air to be admitted. All of the lobes present a common azimuth component in a common direction, and the mixer further includes a plurality of longitudinal grooves occupying at least a portion of the central body, all of the grooves presenting a common azimuth component in a common direction that is opposite to the direction of the azimuth component of the lobes.
US07827800B2 Combustor heat shield
A combustor heat shield comprises a heat shield member defining at least one opening for receiving a fuel nozzle. A louver is received in the opening. The louver has a flow diverting portion extending radially outwardly from the opening for directing air along the hot side of the heat shield member.
US07827794B1 Ultra low emissions fast starting power plant
The power plant combusts a hydrocarbon fuel with oxygen to produce high temperature high pressure products of combustion. These products of combustion are routed through an expander to generate power. The products of combustion are substantially free of oxides of nitrogen because the oxidizer is oxygen rather than air. To achieve fast starting, oxygen, fuel and water diluent are preferably stored in quantities sufficient to allow the power plant to operate from these stored consumables. The fuel can be a gaseous or liquid fuel. The oxygen is preferably stored as liquid and routed through a vaporizer before combustion in a gas generator along with the hydrocarbon fuel. In one embodiment, the vaporizer gasifies the oxygen by absorption of heat from air before the air is routed into a separate heat engine, such as a gas turbine. The gas turbine thus operates on cooled air and has its power output increased.
US07827793B2 Power generation system
To provide a power generation system that prevents a reduction in the efficiency of a steam turbine due to an aperture adjustment of a turbine governing valve. There is provided a power generation system comprising: a furnace in which a solid fuel or a liquid fuel is combusted; a steam turbine that generates electric power by rotating a turbine rotor using steam generated by the furnace; a superheater that is provided between the furnace and the steam turbine and that superheats the steam; a first steam piping that connects the furnace to the superheater; a second steam piping that connects the superheater to the steam turbine; a first valve provided in the first steam piping; a turbine governing valve provided in the second steam piping; and a control section that adjusts an aperture of the first valve according to a load of the steam turbine.
US07827789B2 Linear free piston stirling machine
A linear-free piston Stirling machine comprising a displacer and a power piston. A rod is attached at one end to the displacer, extends through the power piston and is mounted to the casing at its opposite end via a spring. A resilient stopper at the opposite end is arranged to contact the engine casing if the displacement of the displacer exceeds a predetermined limit.
US07827783B2 Exhaust gas purifying apparatus for internal combustion engine
An exhaust gas purifying apparatus for an internal combustion engine having a NOx removing device provided in an exhaust system of the engine and at least one fuel injector for injecting fuel into a combustion chamber of the engine. A temperature of the NOx removing device is detected and a regeneration process, which removes sulfur oxide accumulated in the NOx removing device, is performed. The regeneration process is performed by performing at least one post injection after performing a main injection by the at least one fuel injector to raise a temperature of the NOx removing device or by increasing a main injection amount of fuel to raise the temperature of the NOx removing device without performing the post injection. The exhaust gases are then controlled to flow into the NOx removing device in the reducing state.
US07827781B2 Liquid propellant rocket engine with pintle injector and acoustic dampening
A liquid propelled rocket engine comprising a unique pintle injector, radial injector plate and ablative insert to improve combustion stability and reduce harmonic disturbance within the chamber. The injector plate is generally in the shape of a ring surrounding a combination spud and pintle injector, the two allowing at least one liquid propellant and one liquid oxidizer to be injected into the chamber. The injector plate has an array of injectors for injecting liquid propellant into the chamber and a series of cavities within allowing the harmonic disturbance to be damped and providing a more stable combustion environment. The number of cavities and the unique pintle injector's length and width are chosen to reduce harmonic disturbance in the longitudinal, radial and lateral modes. A method for designing engine components and tuning harmonic frequencies within a combustion chamber is also disclosed.
US07827779B1 Liquid metal ion thruster array
A Liquid Metal Ion Thruster (LMIT) has a substrate having a plurality of pedestals, one end of the pedestal attached to the substrate, and the opposing end of the pedestal having a tip, the pedestals having grooves and the substrate also having grooves coupled to each other and to a source of liquid metal. An extractor electrode positioned parallel to the substrate and above the pedestal tips provides an electrostatic extraction field sufficient to accelerate ions from the tips of the pedestals through the extractor electrode. A series of focusing electrodes with matching apertures provides a flow of substantially parallel ion trajectories, and an optional negative ion source provides a charge neutralization to prevent space charge spreading of the exiting accelerated ions. The assembly is suitable for providing thrust for a satellite while maintaining high operating efficiencies.
US07827778B2 Power plants that utilize gas turbines for power generation and processes for lowering CO2 emissions
Power plants and process for lowering CO2 emissions generally includes extracting a portion of the recirculated CO2-rich flue gas mid-way through the compression pathway of a gas turbine and removing the CO2 in a separation unit. The remaining portion of the CO2 rich flue gas (i.e., the portion of the recirculated flue gas that was not fed to the separation unit) is mixed with fresh air coming from an additional compressor-expander and then fed back to the compression pathway. As a result, flue gas recirculation increases the CO2 concentration within the working fluid, leading to an additional increase in CO2 partial pressure. As the concentration and partial pressure of CO2 is increased, a lower energy penalty is observed to remove the CO2. Moreover, a reduced volume is fed to the CO2 separation unit during operation. Consequently, the size of the separation equipment can be reduced as well as the energy required for the separation process.
US07827776B2 System and method for separation and control of entrained gas mixture
A power generation system. The exemplary system shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a gas turbine (28), a gasifier (10) for generating gaseous fuel and a gas combustor (26) configured to receive the fuel and power the gas turbine (28). A drain collection and separation system (5) is positioned to collect gaseous fuel entrained in liquid and to separate the gaseous fuel from the liquid so the gaseous fuel can be cycled or disposed of separately from the liquid.
US07827774B2 Windrow merging apparatus
A windrow merger has a frame supporting first, second and third pickup assemblies, with the two outside pickup assemblies foldable between an extended use position and a retracted travel position. Each of the pickup assemblies includes a reversible conveyor providing multiple windrow merging configurations. The pickup assemblies are interchangeable and aligned to define an unobstructed pickup face.
US07827768B2 Device and a method for controlling a twist of a tube
A device for controlling a twist of a tube of packaging material in relation to an apparatus for transverse sealing of the tube comprises a number of rollers forming an aperture through which the packaging material is arranged to pass. A roller surface of each of the rollers is arranged to be in contact with an outer surface of the tube. The direction of the rotation axis of at least one of the rollers is adjustable to control the twist of the tube. A method for controlling a twist of a tube of packaging material comprises allowing the packaging material to pass through an aperture formed by a number of rollers with a rolling surface in contact with an outer surface of the tube, and adjusting the direction of the rotation axis of at least one of the rollers to control the twist of the tube.
US07827765B2 Method for forming a slider reclosure segment
A method of forming a reclosable fastener track having a slider. The process provides a reclosable fastener track, forms a slit in the fastener track, attaches a slider to the fastener track, seals the slit in the fastener track after the slider attaches, and creates a first and a second end stop on the track.
US07827757B2 Brackets and bracket system for assembling playground equipment
A bracket system for assembling playground equipment includes a plurality of deck support brackets, at least two vertical frame brackets, at least two horizontal frame brackets, a swing bracket, and at least two ladder brackets. The deck support brackets secure horizontal deck support beams to vertical frame beams at first points along the vertical frame beams. The vertical frame brackets attach to at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at second points above the first points. The at least two horizontal frame brackets fix at least one horizontal frame beam to the at least two adjacent vertical frame beams at the second points; the horizontal frame brackets and the vertical frame brackets interconnect. The swing bracket fastens a swing support beam to the at least one horizontal frame beam at a third point along the at least one horizontal frame beam. The at least two ladder brackets connect a ladder to one of the horizontal deck support beams. A piece of playground equipment assembled with the bracket system and a method of assembling playground equipment with the bracket system also are disclosed.
US07827754B2 Floor panels with edge connectors
Floor covering, including hard floor panels which, at least at the edges of two opposite sides, are provided with coupling parts, cooperating which each other, substantially in the form of a tongue and a groove, wherein the coupling parts are provided with integrated mechanical locking elements which prevent the drifting apart of two coupled floor panels in a direction (R) perpendicular to the related edges and parallel to the underside of the coupled floor panels, and provide a snap-action coupling.
US07827751B2 Moisture barrier underlayment with intermediate layer to accommodate expansion and contraction
A sound and/or moisture barrier underlayment suited for use on a roof or floor surface to provide a substantially flat and level surface, comprises at least first and second strips of insulation membranes (10) laid down one next to the other in a coplanar relationship. The first and second strips (24, 26) have a thickness W1. An overlap joint (28) is provided between the first and second strips (24, 26). The overlap joint (28) has a thickness W2 substantially equal to or less than W1 to provide a free-bump transition between the first and second strips (24, 26) while preventing straight-through infiltration.
US07827750B2 Profile-rail system
The profile-rail system (1) serves for bridging expansion joints. It is held by means of undercut tongue and groove profilings (3, 4) such that it can be held in a click-in arrangement against flooring elements. In order to obtain a width adjustment and an adjustment to movements of the floor covering, the profile-rail system (1) has at least two telescopable profiled rails (5, 6). These profiled rails (5, 6) can be held against the flooring elements (2) exclusively on the end face.
US07827747B2 Footing form for upright structural members of buildings
A footing form for supporting posts or other upright structural members of buildings and the like includes a primary web, and a plurality of structural webs extending upwardly from the primary web. The webs include structural webs that extend radially outward from a center portion of the base web, and a plurality of ring-like concentric webs that provide additional structural support. The webs form a plurality of upwardly-opening pockets, and apertures through the base web provide for drainage of water and the like from the upwardly-opening pockets. The footing form may have a one-piece molded construction. The footing form provides sufficient support to thereby eliminate the need for concrete or the like to support the posts.
US07827746B2 Hybrid window wall/curtain wall system and method of installation
There are currently two major types of exterior building envelope finishing systems: window wall systems, and curtain wall systems. Window wall systems use panels which fit between concrete floor slaps, and hence, are prone to leakage and are not aesthetically appealing. Curtain wall systems are installed proud of the concrete slabs, so have better performance, but are expensive to install. The system of the invention has the high performance of a curtain wall system, with the ease of installation of a window wall system. The invention uses rigid panels which cover the face of a building like a curtain wall system, providing a complete gasketed seal without the need for caulking as in the case of window wall systems. The vertical mullions are notched, so that the mullions can be easily anchored to the upper and lower surfaces of the concrete slabs.
US07827739B2 Wind flow body for a structure
The present invention provides wind flow bodies for use with a structure for decreasing the carrier wing effect on the structure by the formation of turbulence or reducing the dynamic pressure by deflecting the wind flow. The invention further provides a method for securing the composition of a structure against the onslaught of heavy winds, whereby zones, which are suitable for the formation of a critical carrier wing effect during heavy wind flow are identified on the structure, and the position of a wind flow body for generating turbulence for dampening the carrier wing effect, is then determined. Further zones are identified which are suitable for the formation of the dynamic pressure, and the operating position of a wind flow body is then determined for deflecting the corresponding wind flow for reducing the dynamic pressure.
US07827734B2 Window assembly with sash frame interlocking system to resist wind load and impact
A window assembly includes a main outer support frame supporting at least one movable rectangular sash frame enclosing an insulated glass panel. The sash frame is supported for vertical or horizontal movement between open and closed positions, and an interlocking system is effective to lock adjacent overlapping sash frame members. The interlocking system includes an angular metal clip member mounted on one sash frame member and having a flange projecting into a slot within the adjacent sash frame member. A pair of clip members are located under the tilt latches on single and double hung window assemblies and are secured to a vertical sash frame member on a horizontal sliding window assembly. The interlocking system responds to a substantial positive or negative wind load or such a wind load after an impact which breaks a glass panel, to limit deflection and prevent permanent deformation or release of the movable sash frame.
US07827732B2 Fish catcher
A fish catcher having a handle connected to a base wherein the base is tubular in shape having two ends. On a first end is a large opening less than the diameter of the tube. On the second or distal end is an opening smaller than the large opening. The body is made of an opaque rigid material.
US07827730B1 Fishing lure having a controlled rattle
A fishing lure includes a rattle that is adjustable between a rattling mode and a muted mode. The fishing lure includes a body having an outer surface and an inner surface. Inside the body is a rattle chamber and a muted chamber, with a channel connecting the rattle chamber with the muted chamber. The rattle is moveable between the muted chamber and the rattle chamber to determine when rattling is available and when the rattle is muted.
US07827727B2 Night sight and method of making the same
A night sight includes a notched bottom portion, permitting the use of a large objective lens for maximized light gathering capability while also permitting the night sight to be mounted with its center line relatively close to the center line of the barrel of the weapon with which it is used. This configuration permits the night sight to be mounted so that its center line is the same as the center line of a daytime telescopic sight used in conjunction with the night sight. The night sight includes a focusing assembly having decreased sensitivity to tilt or decenter, and a collimator mounted within a spherical bearing so that the collimator may be precisely aligned during assembly of the night sight. The night sight thereby ensures that an image viewed through the night sight appears to originate from the same angle as that with which the image entered the objective lens, and further resists a need to compensate for parallax during aiming.
US07827725B1 Scope assembly
A scope assembly includes an elongated viewing scope and a scope mount adapter. The viewing scope has first and second opposite ends, and at least one externally-threaded mounting post located between the opposite ends. The scope mount adapter includes a first connector having an internal screw thread mating with the external thread of the mounting post and a second connector designed for releasably engaging an accessory mounted to the scope.
US07827724B1 No-drill rear sight scope mount base
A scope mount base design which readily accepts onto a preexisting rear sight base without any alteration of the sight base except for the easy removal of the original sight leaf and mainspring. This scope mount invention achieves solid lockup by the use of the appropriate sized threaded support fixtures and scope mount configuration to successfully engage these rear sight slots that originally contained the sight leaf and mainspring, and thus achieve strong lockup of the scope mount to the sight base.
US07827722B1 Rifle
A rifle with an upper receiver and a barrel attached to the upper receiver and including a bolt carrier, and operating, buffer, and cooling systems. The operating system includes a cylinder and a piston coupled to receive propelling gases from the barrel. As the piston moves between retracted and extended positions the bolt carrier is moved between closed and open positions. The bolt carrier includes a weight movable within a guide frame between rearward and forward limits. The buffer system includes a compression spring in a tube attached to the upper receiver in abutting engagement with the bolt carrier. A partially fluid filled cylinder is attached to a coil of the spring and includes a piston and shaft. The piston is formed so that fluid in the cylinder restricts movement in one direction and allows free movement in a second direction.
US07827720B1 Autoloading handgun
The autoloading handgun is a short recoil, locked breech, semiautomatic service pistol. A rear located safety latch is provided for ambidextrous usage. A hold-open lever opens the pistol after the last round in the magazine is fired. A recoil spring guide rod, which alone is used for field stripping, is provided. Only three moving elements, a trigger, trigger bar, and a striker are required for firing. The hold-open lever is formed from a single piece lever acting laterally and cooperating with the magazine follower. A standard Browning swinging barrel lock is utilized wherein at the instant of firing, barrel and breechblock remain locked with each other, recoil backward for a small distance, and then swing vertically away from each other via cam elements. The swinging barrel lock construction has no intermediate parts.
US07827717B1 Foldable traffic sign
A foldable traffic sign system comprises a relatively rigid sign panel and a plurality of folding lines disposed in the sign panel, for permitting ready folding of the sign panel into a substantially smaller configuration. In a preferred embodiment, at least one cut is disposed partially along a dimension of the sign panel, to further facilitate ready folding of the sign panel. One of the folding lines is disposed substantially horizontally across a center region of the sign panel, and at least one of the folding lines is disposed substantially vertically on the sign panel, and intersects with the horizontal folding line. The plurality of folding lines creates a plurality of sign sections, preferably six, defined by a combination of the folding lines and cuts in the sign panel. The sign system further comprises a folding sign stand, and a tote for containing both the sign panel and sign stand.
US07827716B2 Mounting for sheet signage
A mounting for sheet signage which includes a base structure of frame elements, an elongate support having frame members and sheet attachments. Mounts on the base and on the elongate supports facilitate placement of the mounting on the base structure. Interlocking elements are engageable through relative longitudinal displacement between the elongate supports and the base which are neither engageable nor disengageable through relative lateral displacement between these elements. A mounting for sheet signage also contemplates the integration of a vehicle frame with sheet attachments.
US07827712B2 Lighted signage using reflected light behind the signage
An apparatus and method for displaying back-lighted images to viewers moving along a path of travel past viewing boxes containing transparent images illuminated by substantially vertical light sources which are then reflected to obtain a shallow light box depth relative to the transparent images, the light sources being located behind the transparent images, relative to the viewer.
US07827711B2 Automatic rotating decoration
An automatic rotating decoration includes a rotating body, a support, a driving device connecting the support, and a transmission member connecting the driving device and the rotating body. The support, the driving device and the transmission member all are received in the rotating body. An opening is defined in the rotating body. The support is exposed to the opening. The driving device includes a driving body and an output shaft extending from the driving body. The driving body includes a motor body and a battery seat electrically connecting the motor body. The automatic rotating decoration of the present invention may automatically rotate around the support on another object without additional housing thereby simplifying the structure of the automatic rotating decoration, increasing fun of the automatic rotating decoration and facilitating the handling.
US07827709B2 Linen spreader apparatus and method
An article is selected and spread from a load of articles. A first clamp moves along a run to remove an article. By changing orientation of the run, articles may be removed from different locations. A second clamp rotates while holding the article. The rotation generally flattens out the article. A third clamp grabs a portion of the article and further spreads the article. This process may detangle or untwist the article. The untwisted article is dragged over a belt. The belt adjusts the amount of overhang on each side. A plate lifts a resulting edge. The article is clamped at that edge and dragged over a roller. The roller moves into contact with a conveyor. The conveyor conveys the article to find a leading edge. The article is then conveyed in a spread position.
US07827706B2 Detachable cleat system
The present invention relates to a sole made from a first material, at least one receptacle made from a second material, and at least one stud, which can be releasably mounted within the receptacle by inserting a fastening projection of the stud into the receptacle. The fastening projection includes a first locking member, and the receptacle includes a flexible wall having a second locking member. The flexible wall is deflected when the fastening projection is inserted into the receptacle until the first and the second locking members engage.
US07827704B2 Methods of making polymeric articles and polymeric articles formed thereby
Methods of making molded articles and the articles formed by the method, particularly viscoelastic gel articles.
US07827698B2 Orientation-sensitive signal output
Orientation-sensitive signal output, in which a neutral position of a device is automatically determined in relation to at least a first axis, an angular displacement of the device is measured about at least the first axis, and shaking of the device is detected. A selection of the first control is received, and an output signal is output based at least upon the selection and the angular displacement or based upon detecting the shaking of the device.
US07827697B2 Low friction folding knife
A low friction folding knife has a blade with a distal end and a tang. The tang has a slot disposed in the thickness of the tang with a roller cam extending slightly outside of the perimeter of the tang and rotatably attached within the slot. There is a safety assembly disposed within the first outer handle that has a safety stud extending through a safety slot in the first outer handle for moving the safety assembly between a safe position and a safe off position. There is an adjustable bias element disposed between the first liner and the second liner. The adjustable bias element is positioned to assist the blade in exiting the blade slot.
US07827696B2 Corn scraper
A corn scraper for removing whole kernels from the core of a corn includes a handle portion and a utility portion connected to the handle portion. The utility portion includes a bridge member and a base plate. The bridge member is connected to the base plate against which an ear of corn is put in use. The bridge member is provided with at least one tooth means for engagement and cutting into the root of the kernels of the corn.
US07827691B2 Method for manufacturing a nozzle plate
A method for manufacturing a nozzle plate, which has a nozzle hole, includes radiating of a plurality of laser beams. The method further includes applying of the plurality of laser beams to at least one axial end surface of a plate member substantially throughout an inner circumferential periphery, which defines a boundary between a small hole defining the nozzle hole and the plate member.
US07827685B2 Seals and a method of making seals
A seal and method of making seals utilises folds in order to form creases in a length of material such that the creases reinforce individual seal elements or surfaces whilst perforations or slots in a seal edge allow air leakage from one side of the seal element or surface to the other. Thus, air pressurisation can take place between spaced seal elements or surfaces and this allows air flotation or riding of a rotating component relative to a static housing component. The perforations are typically graduated from the seal edge in order to provide the best pressurisation and air-riding effect for proximity or gap control between the sealing edge and the rotating component surface. The slots effectively provide flexibility to the sealing edge such that the seal component emulates a brush seal.
US07827683B2 Method for forming tapered piston pins
A method is provided for cold forming center web or webless tapered piston pins in one forming sequence. The method eliminates secondary operations such as but not limited to machining, annealing, coating and secondary forming.The method includes the steps of cutting a metal rod into a substantially cylindrical slug piece, die extruding the slug piece to form a first cavity in the slug piece, optionally die extruding the slug piece to form a second cavity in the slug piece, piercing the slug piece to form the slug piece into a hollow cylindrical piece, die extruding the hollow cylindrical piece at either end to form a hollow cylindrical piece having a taper on an internal surface of the hollow cylindrical piece at either end.
US07827680B2 Electroplating process of electroplating an elecrically conductive sustrate
An electroplating process of electroplating an electrically conductive substrate is described. The process includes electroplating intermittently to a predetermined plating thickness using the substrate surface as a cathode and a plating metal as an anode at a constant voltage between the anode and the cathode by repeating application of a voltage between a cathode and an anode and interruption of the application alternately. It is described that a voltage time/interruption time ratio is 0.1 to 1.0, a voltage time is not longer than 10 seconds, and an interruption time is not less than 1 x 10-12 seconds.
US07827678B2 Longitudinal shield tape wrap applicator with edge folder to enclose drain wire
A device for making a shielded electrical wire comprising a first folding die that folds a first and second edge of a shield tape in an opposite direction from the central portion of the shield tape, a second folding die that wraps the shield tape around the insulated conductors and folds the first edge back over onto the central portion of the shield tape to form a receiving area, a third folding die that tightens the shield tape around the plurality of conductors while positioning the receiving area to receive a drain wire, a wire guide that installs a drain wire in the receiving area, and a closing die that closes the shield tape around the plurality of conductors and the drain wire to form an enclosure around the plurality of conductors with the second edge overlapping the receiving area at an outside surface of the enclosure, in order to better define the claimed invention.
US07827671B2 Method for the manufacturing of balanced transducers
The present invention is intended as a method for producing an electromagnetic transducer of variable reluctance type, where the transducer's seismic mass side and load side are mounted together in a first step while the inner and/or outer air gaps are supplied with shims in order to create balanced air gaps in an axial direction between the bobbin core's arms and the inner and outer yokes, whereupon in a second step the bobbin core is fixed through the side piece to an adapter already attached in a corresponding free moving end of a spring suspension, with compliant properties working in an axial direction and arranged between the seismic mass side and the load side in resting state in order to maintain balanced air gaps when finally, in a third step, the shims are removed and the air gaps are released.
US07827669B2 Drill guide
A method of joining together a first and second workpieces. The method comprises; drilling a first hole at least partially through the first workpiece with a drill bit oriented in a first direction; drilling a second hole at least partially through the first workpiece with a drill bit oriented in a second direction which is not parallel with the first direction, the drill bit passing through the first workpiece into a side of the first hole; inserting a fastener through the second workpiece and into the first hole; inserting an anchor into the first hole via the second hole; and securing the fastener within the first hole with the anchor. The invention also relates to a drill guide for use in such a method.The drill bit is aligned by placing a target magnet in the first hole without completely filling it; placing a drill guide with a guide magnet or magnetic field sensor next to the first workpiece; adjusting the position of the drill guide until the guide magnet or magnetic field sensor indicates that the drill guide is aligned with the target magnet; and drilling the second hole by passing the drill bit through the drill guide and at least partially through the first workpiece, the drill bit entering the side of the first hole at a location where the first hole is not filled by the target magnet.
US07827661B2 Control of white-etched layer during machining
A machining system includes a support configured to retain an article, such as a rotor disk, having an area, such as a surface of a slot in the disk. A cutting tool, for example, a broach, is movable relative to the support to cut the area. A heating member, such as a laser, is configured to locally heat the area of the article. In one example, the cutting tool includes a body having a cutting edge. The heating member is supported by the body and is configured to provide heat adjacent to the cutting edge. The cutting edge cuts the locally heated area while the area is still heated.
US07827660B2 Bimorphic structures, sensor structures formed therewith, and methods therefor
A bimorphic structure responsive to changes in an environmental condition, sensor structures incorporating one or more of such bimorphic structures, and a method of forming such bimorphic structures. The sensor structure has an electrically-conductive first contact on a substrate, and a bimorph beam anchored to the substrate so that a portion thereof is suspended above the first contact. The bimorph beam has a multilayer structure that includes first and second layers, with the second layer between the first layer and the substrate. A portion of the first layer projects through an opening in the second layer toward the first contact so as to define an electrically-conductive second contact located on the beam so as to be spaced apart and aligned with the first contact for contact with the first contact when the beam sufficiently deflects toward the substrate.
US07827655B2 Hinge for folding container
A hinge for folding container comprises an inner hinge, an outer hinge and a locking device for locking the inner and outer hinge. Wherein, the inner hinge and the outer hinge are pivotally connected by a pivot pin, the outer hinge comprises at least two outer hinge plates provided in parallel, and the inner hinge comprises at least two inner hinge plates provided in parallel. Compared with the prior art, without changing the standard operating hole, the hinge for folding container disclosed by the present invention can widen the transverse width of the inner hinge, and so that the rigidity of the inner hinge is effectively enhanced. Therefore, the hinge according to the present invention can be applied to any types of folding container, especially the folding container mounted with an independent corner post.
US07827654B2 Self-traveling cleaner
In a self-traveling cleaner of the present invention, a cleaning mechanism includes a brush mechanism rotatable along a floor surface and a driving mechanism for rotatingly driving the brush mechanism. The brush mechanism includes a rotation axis extending perpendicular to the floor surface, one arm projecting laterally from a lower end of the rotation axis, and a brush planted on the arm. The rotation axis is provided within a reverse side of the main body, and the arm has a rotation angle range in which the arm projects outwardly from an outer periphery of the main body and a rotation angle range in which the arm is contained within the outer periphery of the main body.
US07827642B2 Hollow prestressed concrete (HPC) girder and spliced hollow prestressed concrete girder (s-HPC) bridge construction method
Provided is a hollow prestressed concrete girder for forming an I-type prestressed concrete girder bridge, in which at least one hole is formed in a body portion of the I-type prestressed concrete girder. A spliced hollow prestressed concrete girder bridge, in which a plurality of holes are formed in a body portion of the girder to reduce the weight of the girder, is constructed by carrying a plurality of spliced girders manufactured in a factory to a construction site, assembling the spliced girders in the construction site, first tensing steel wires installed at the entire girder, reinforcing a connection portion between spliced members by a steel rod or steel wire which is connected by welding or using a coupling or anchoring device at the spliced portion that connecting the spliced girders, installing the assembled girders that are first tensed on a pier, installing a continuous steel wire for connecting the installed spliced girders for a continuous bridge, pouring slab in the upper portion of the installed spliced girders, after the slab is cured, second tensing steel wires that have not tensed or the tensed continuous steel wire, and when cracks are generated or excessive sagging occurs after the bridge is constructed, additionally tensing the steel wires.
US07827640B2 Shoe outsole made using composite sheet material
Provided are, among other things, systems, methods and techniques for making a shoe outsole and to shoe outsoles made using such techniques. In one such technique, a sheet of composite material is produced by extruding a base material together with a sheet of fabric material. The sheet of composite material is then cut into an outsole component, and a shoe outsole is fabricated using the outsole component.
US07827638B1 Multi-function tool and battery tester device
A multi-function tool with a battery tester. The multi-function tool has a scissors-like cutter and a ceramic tool for scoring thin plastic wrap, such as cellophane type wrap. The battery tester can test a variety of battery types and voltages, especially 9 volt and 1.5 volt batteries due to distinct terminal pair arrangements carried on one or both handles.
US07827637B2 Mattress with flame resistant moisture barrier
A flame resistant moisture barrier and a mattress having such a barrier and related methods of manufacture provide mattresses, furniture cushions and other products that provide resistance to flame and moisture.
US07827634B2 System and method for bed transport
A system and method for a bed transport. The system may include a drive system configured to couple to a bed frame and to provide powered movement of the bed frame. The system may also include a substantially vertical control arm and a control handle coupled to the control arm. The system may also comprise a switch on the control handle, and the switch may be configured to control a function of the drive system.
US07827632B2 Bariatric bed apparatus and methods
A bariatric hospital bed with full feature capability to enhance the care and treatment of bariatric patients. Among the features are fully adjustable and retractable siderails, bed raise-and-lower features, head-up and leg-down features for converting to a seated position, as well as Trendelenburg and reverse-Trendelenburg features. An integral scale assembly and radioluscent capabilities with a built'in X-ray tray are also provided together with redundant, easy-access controls in a pendant as well as in both siderails. An improved footboard is also provided for use as both a foot-rest and a step.
US07827630B2 Home lift position and rehabilitation (HLPR) apparatus
The invention disclosed herein is a novel Home Lift Position and Rehabilitation (HLPR) apparatus designed to provide stable movement along several critical axes of motion including lift capability. The HLPR apparatus is capable of moving along a desired floor path (“x-axis”), moving on a vertical axis to lift a patient (“z-axis”), rotating the HLPR apparatus itself (along an “outer rotational axis”), and rotating a patient within the HLPR apparatus while the HLPR apparatus itself remains stationary (along an “inner rotational axis”). The telescoping, double-nested C-frame structure of the HLPR apparatus and pivot assembly allow any patient support structure known in the art to be suspended securely and to move in a stable, torque-resistant manner to assist patients in rehabilitation and in independently performing activities of daily living.