| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07833409B2 |
Methods and systems for removing vanadium from low-grade fuels
A method for treating fuel containing vanadium including extracting vanadium from the fuel with an adsorption material and fractionating the fuel into a light oil fraction and a heavy fuel fraction. The light fuel fraction has a reduced amount of vanadium. Systems for fuel preparation are also provided. |
| US07833408B2 |
Staged hydrocarbon conversion process
Systems and methods for staging an investment in hydrocarbon processing are provided. In a first stage, a hydrocarbon feed can be apportioned equally or unequally into first and second portions. The first portion can be mixed with one or more oxidants and gasified to provide a first effluent, at least a portion of which can be combusted to provide steam. The second portion can be mixed with one or more solvents to provide one or more fungible hydrocarbon products, at least a portion of which can be sold to generate capital. In a second stage, the hydrocarbon feed can be mixed with one or more solvents and one or more non-catalytic solids and the resultant mixture thermally cracked to provide one or more hydrocarbon products and coked non-catalytic solids. The coked, non-catalytic solids can be regenerated and recycled. |
| US07833407B2 |
Method of blending high TAN and high SBN crude oils and method of reducing particulate induced whole crude oil fouling and asphaltene induced whole crude oil fouling
A high solvency dispersive power (HSDP) crude oil is added to a blend of incompatible oils to proactively address the potential for fouling heat exchange equipment. The HSDP component dissolves asphaltene precipitates and maintains suspension of inorganic particulates before coking affects heat exchange surfaces. An HSDP oil is also flushed through heat exchange equipment to remove any deposits and/or precipitates on a regular maintenance schedule before coking can affect heat exchange surfaces. |
| US07833403B2 |
Plating, chemical plating technique using partial chemical oxidation for aluminum or aluminum copper radiator
This invention involves the technological field of electroplating, chemical plating, specially involves a method for partially plating aluminum and aluminum copper radiators. A radiator is conducted partial chemical oxidation and enclosure before undergoing galvanization. Firstly oxidize the non-plate surface of the radiator by chemical oxidation, then utilize a sealing compound to fill up tiny holes of the porous layer to make a film thereon against the erosion of acid and alkali, and then process common chemical plating or electroplating. Only plate a weldable nickel-phosphorus alloy on the touching parts at where the aluminum radiator or the aluminums and copper radiator connect with the main frame. |
| US07833399B2 |
Concentration method of fine particle dispersion and concentration apparatus of fine particle dispersion
The present invention provides a concentration method of a fine particle dispersion containing fine particles to be electrophoretically migrated, for concentrating the fine particle dispersion by allowing the fine particle dispersion to flow in a laminar flow in a channel having a micro-width to which an electric field is applied in a direction intersecting the direction of a fine particle dispersion flow. The invention also provides a concentration apparatus of a fine particle dispersion using the concentration method. |
| US07833398B2 |
Length-dependent recoil separation of long molecules
Separation of long molecules by length is obtained by forcing such molecules to traverse a boundary between a low free-energy region and a high free-energy region. In one embodiment, the high free-energy region is a dense pillar region or other structure formed on a semiconductor substrate. One or more membranes are used in further embodiments. The low free-energy region is a larger chamber formed adjacent the high free-energy region. A recoil phase allows longer molecules not fully driven into the high free-energy region to recoil into the low free-energy region. In a further variation, the high free-energy region is a membrane having nanoscale holes. |
| US07833397B2 |
Amino-acid biosensor, Fischer-ratio biosensor and health information management system
Disclosed is a biosensor capable of measuring a total concentration of plural types of amino acids. An amino-acid biosensor (200) for measuring a total concentration of a plurality of specific amino acids, comprises a measuring electrode (202) which includes as components a mediator and an enzyme which selectively act on the plurality of specific amino acids each serving as a substrate, and a counter electrode (203). The enzyme has a substrate affinity to each of the plurality of specific amino acids. The enzyme is operable to catalyze a reaction in each of the plurality of specific amino acids as a substrate so as to form a reaction product, and the mediator is operable, during amino-acid concentration measurement, to carry electrons between the reaction product and the measuring electrode. The amino-acid biosensor is designed to apply a voltage between the measuring electrode and the counter electrode during the measurement in such a manner that, in an analytical curve representing a relationship between an applied voltage and a current value for each of the plurality of specific amino acids, the applied voltage includes a voltage allowing the variety of the current values for the amino acids at the same applied voltage to fall within a given range. |
| US07833395B2 |
Electrode system for an electrochemical sensor
An electrode system for an electrochemical cell is provided, including a substrate, a measuring electrode connected to the substrate and formed from a number of electrically conducting and mutually connected microdisks, and a generating electrode formed from an electrically conducting sheet and having a diameter that is greater than that of the microdisks. In one implementation, the microdisks are provided in cavities in the substrate. |
| US07833394B2 |
Housing, apparatus for generating hydrogen and fuel cell power generation system having the same
Disclosed are a housing, an apparatus for generating hydrogen and a fuel cell power generation system having the same. The housing in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes a case, a hollow space formed in the case, a cartridge being inserted in the hollow space, the cartridge configured to generate hydrogen; and a moisture removing layer, being formed on a wall of the hollow space and including chemical hydride. The housing is capable of removing both water vapor, included in the hydrogen generated by the apparatus for generating hydrogen, and dew, condensed in the housing, and obtaining additional hydrogen by hydrolyzing the water vapor and the condensed dew. |
| US07833390B2 |
Electrolyzer having radial flowing passage
An electrolyzer includes a housing having a space for receiving an electrolytic solution, and a cathode plate and an anode plate disposed in the housing and disposed horizontally and arranged one above the other and spaced from each other for forming a gap between the anode plate and the cathode plate, and arranged for guiding the electrolytic solution to flow radially through the gap formed between the anode plate and the cathode plate, and the cathode plate may attract catholyte of the electrolytic solution toward the cathode plate, and the anode plate may attract anolyte of the electrolytic solution toward the anode plate for allowing the anolyte and the catholyte to be separated from each other. |
| US07833385B2 |
Processes of making monohydrate form of magnesium ammonium phosphate and processes of making paper using same
Processes for producing the monohydrate form of magnesium ammonium phosphate in slurry from use of environmentally friendly reactants are described. Slurry containing the monohydrate form of magnesium ammonium phosphate can be fed directly to, and mixed with, paper making feedstock, such as feedstock for cigarette paper, without transformation of the monohydrate form to the hexahydrate form of magnesium ammonium phosphate. |
| US07833383B2 |
Method of manufacturing a multiple layer directionally oriented nonwoven fiber material
Disclosed herein are embodiments of a multi-layer nonwoven fiber material, and related methods of manufacturing the material. In one exemplary embodiment, the fiber material includes a first layer of directionally aligned fibers together with a second layer of randomly dispersed fibers dispersed over the first layer. Consistent with one exemplary method for manufacturing a nonwoven fiber material, the method includes dispersing a first plurality of fibers horizontally in one or more predetermined directions, as well as dispersing a second plurality of fibers horizontally in random directions. In such an embodiment, the second plurality of fibers is dispersed over the first plurality of fibers. Moreover, an exemplary embodiment of a roofing shingle employing a nonwoven fiber material as described herein is as disclosed. |
| US07833381B2 |
Optical emission interferometry for PECVD using a gas injection hole
The present invention provides a method and apparatus for improving optical sensing of a plasma process through the use of a fiber optic sensor placed within a standard showerhead hole of a standard gas showerhead positioned in an upper electrode of a plasma system during the plasma processing of a substrate. A film property can be calculated based on the measured plasma emission from the surface of the substrate. The film property can be film deposition rate, refractive index, film thickness, etc. Based on the measured film property, the plasma processing of the substrate can be adjusted and/or terminated. In addition, a window is provided that is positioned in the upper electrode assembly for viewing the plasma emission through the standard showerhead hole. |
| US07833377B2 |
Process for preparing an animal incontinence device
A process for preparing an animal incontinence device comprises: providing a base layer of tissue; applying a uniform layer of superabsorbent polymer particles to a major surface of the base layer of tissue; applying water to the base layer of tissue having the uniform layer of superabsorbent polymer particles thereon; applying a cover layer of tissue over the base layer of tissue having the uniform layer of superabsorbent polymer particles thereon, to form an absorbent layer assembly; passing the absorbent layer assembly between a heated nip roll and a laminating roll, to at least partially adhere together the cover layer of tissue, uniform layer of superabsorbent polymer particles, and base layer of tissue, to form an absorbent layer; inserting the absorbent layer intermediate a base layer of liquid-impervious polymer film and a top layer of porous, hydrophilic, woven or non-woven polymer fibers, to form an animal incontinence device assembly; and laminating together at least a portion of the animal incontinence device assembly. |
| US07833376B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing corrugated boards
A method and an apparatus for manufacturing corrugated boards are disclosed. The method may include the steps of supplying a first web of medium having a first and second sides, wherein each side of the first web having a plurality of flutes, and wherein each flute having a crest, applying a wetting agent and an adhesive composition in a sequential fashion to the plurality of flutes on the first side of the first web, and securing a second web of medium is to the plurality of crests on the first side of the first web to form a single-faced corrugated board. |
| US07833374B2 |
Radially expansible tire assembly drum and method for forming tires
A method of building a tire carcass onto a toroidally expanded building drum core is disclosed which comprises: transferring a breaker and tread package to a mold; loading the tire carcass at diameter D1 into the mold; toroidally expanding the tire carcass to a second diameter D2 wherein the tire carcass and the breaker and tread package form an uncured tire assembly; curing the uncured tire assembly to form a cured tire in the mold; and removing the cured tire from the mold. |
| US07833373B2 |
Guide for guiding reinforcement threads sprayed onto a surface during manufacture of a tire
Device for manufacturing a reinforcement from a thread laid directly in its final position by spraying lengths of the thread onto a receiving surface. The thread lengths are delivered from a conduit to a guide as the conduit rotates about an axis. The guide includes deflectors forming therebetween a slot having a thread inlet orifice and a thread spray (discharge) orifice spaced apart along the guide's height. The separation between the deflectors narrows toward the spray orifice, wherein the deflectors form therebetween an angle in the range of 3° and 7° when measured at any point along the height of the slot. |
| US07833370B2 |
Method for manufacturing a ceramic multi-layered substrate
A method for manufacturing a ceramic multi-layered substrate includes a first step of forming a green ceramic laminate including a plurality of stacked green ceramic base layers, a second step of firing the green ceramic laminate to sinter the green ceramic layers, and a third step of separating the sintered ceramic laminate formed by firing the green ceramic laminate into a ceramic multi-layered substrate. The green ceramic base layers stacked in the first step include a separation pattern formed along separation lines, the separation pattern disappearing during firing. In the third step, the sintered ceramic laminate is separated into a plurality of ceramic multi-layered substrates separated through a cavity formed by the disappearance of the separation pattern during the firing in the second step. |
| US07833364B2 |
Method of producing bicycle ratchet bushing
A method of producing bicycle ratchet bushing is provided, wherein an alloyed fundamental material is applied to the processes of a modeling process and a detailing treatment to form a product of bicycle ratchet bushing. Wherein, when the processes of drilling and tapping a hole of the modeling process are completed, the tapped hole of the workpiece is connected to a screw rod, and the screw rod is clamped by a drawing machine, so that the workpiece can be penetrated through the mold of the drawing machine to proceed with the drawing process. When the drawing process is working, it is not necessary to apply a head-hitting process to the workpiece as the conventional drawing method does, therefore the outer teeth of the ratchet of the workpiece will not be deformed by an external force, and can penetrated into the mold for further drawing process, therefore the whole manufacturing processes can be controlled efficiently. |
| US07833361B2 |
Alloy and method for producing magnetic refrigeration material particles using same
An alloy is used for production of magnetic refrigeration material particles. The alloy contains La in a range of 4 to 15 atomic %, Fe in a range of 60 to 93 atomic %, Si in a range of 3.5 to 23.5 atomic % and at lease one element M selected from B and Ti in a range of 0.5 to 1.5 atomic %. The alloy includes a main phase containing Fe as a main component element and Si, and a subphase containing La as a main component element and Si. The main phase has a bcc crystal structure and an average grain diameter of 20 μm or less. |
| US07833360B2 |
Method of producing grain-oriented electrical steel sheet very excellent in magnetic properties
The invention provides a method of producing a grain-oriented electrical steel sheet of the complete solid solution nitrided type that is good in glass film formation and excellent in magnetic properties, which method comprises: C: 0.025 to 0.09%, hot-rolling the steel slab containing Si: 2.5 to 4.0% and acid-soluble Al into a hot-rolled steel strip; controlling the rate at which N contained in the hot-rolled steel strip is precipitated as AlN to a precipitation rate of 20% or less; conducting hot-rolled strip annealing and cold rolling conducting decarburization-annealing combined with primary recrystallization by during the former part of the process in an atmosphere whose PH2O/PH2 is 0.30 to 0.70 and then during the latter part thereof in an atmosphere whose PH2O/PH2 is 0.20 or less, thereby making the circular equivalent average grain diameter of the primary recrystallization grains 7 μm to less than 18 μm; nitriding the strip as it travels in a mixed gas of hydrogen, nitrogen and ammonia; controlling the steel strip oxygen concentration before secondary recrystallization annealing calculated based on strip thickness of 0.30 mm (oxygen content: So) to 450 ppm to 700 ppm inclusive; applying a coat of annealing separator; and then conducting secondary recrystallization annealing in an atmosphere that, while the temperature at the hottest coil outer periphery point is between room temperature and 950° C., is controlled to a nitrogen atmosphere containing oxygen: 25 to 75% wherein the balance is hydrogen and PH2O/PH2 is 0.01 to 0.15. |
| US07833358B2 |
Method of recovering valuable material from exhaust gas stream of a reaction chamber
A semiconductor processing chamber is cleaned by introducing a cleaning gas into a processing chamber, striking a plasma in a remote plasma source that is in communication with the processing chamber, measuring the impedance of the plasma, vaporizing a ruthenium containing deposit on a surface of the processing chamber to form a ruthenium containing gas mixture, and flowing the gas mixture through an analyzer and into an exhaust collection assembly. The measurement of the impedance of the plasma in combination with the ruthenium concentration provides an accurate indication of chamber cleanliness. |
| US07833356B2 |
Method for preparing a gellable starch product
The present invention relates to a method for preparing a starch product, wherein an aqueous starch mixture containing 5-50% dsb amylose is provided and the starch mixture is heated to a high temperature of at least 170 C. The invention further relates to a product obtainable by such a method and to the use of such product in a variety of food applications. |
| US07833354B2 |
Multiple nozzle evaporator for vacuum thermal evaporation
Disclosed is a multiple nozzle evaporator in which a material to be evaporated in the evaporator can be deposited on a substrate with an improved efficiency of use of the material, thereby forming a large-area uniform thin film. The evaporator includes a cylindrical or rectangular post-shaped crucible 31 or 51 with an open top face; and a nozzle unit 32 having a body portion having a cylindrical or rectangular post-like shape with a height smaller than that of the crucible 31 or 51 and assembled to an upper portion of the crucible, and a plurality of evaporation tubes formed at an angle while penetrating through the body portion between top and bottom faces of the body portion. An evaporated material spouts toward peripheral areas of a substrate due to the inclined evaporation tubes, thereby improving the uniformity of a thin film to be deposited and the efficiency of use of the evaporated material, and preventing condensation of the evaporated material at a spouting portion. |
| US07833353B2 |
Liquid material vaporization apparatus for semiconductor processing apparatus
A liquid material vaporization apparatus for a semiconductor processing apparatus includes: a vaporization tank; an inner partition wall disposed in the tank for dividing the interior of the tank into a charging compartment and a vaporization compartment which are liquid-communicatable with each other over an upper edge of the inner partition wall. A liquid material charged in the charging compartment overflows over the upper edge of the inner partition wall toward the vaporization compartment to store and vaporize the liquid material in the vaporization compartment. |
| US07833349B2 |
Phase shifter for laser annealing
An object of the present invention is to provide a phase shifter for laser annealing which is capable of effectively preventing the sticking of particles. A first layer and a third layer are made of quartz glass, and a two-dimensional pattern of fine grooves is formed in the surfaces of the layers. The first layer and the third layer are arranged so that a second layer is sandwiched between the layers in a state in which the surfaces provided with the grooves face each other. A peripheral edge portion of the first layer is laminated on that of the third layer by a spacer. The second layer is made of an inactive gas introduced between the first layer and the third layer. |
| US07833346B2 |
Method and apparatus for manufacturing group III nitride crystals
There is provided a group III nitride crystal growth method capable of obtaining a material which is a GaN substrate of low defect density capable of being used as a power semiconductor substrate and in which characteristics of n-type and p-type requested for formation of transistor or the like. A growth method of group III nitride crystals includes: forming a mixed melt containing at least group III element and a flux formed of at least one selected from the group consisting of-alkaline metal and alkaline earth metal, in a reaction vessel; and growing group III nitride crystals from the mixed melt and a substance containing at least nitrogen, wherein after immersing a plurality of seed crystal substrates placed in an upper part of the reaction vessel in which the mixed melt is formed, into the mixed melt to cause crystal growth, the plurality of seed crystal substrates are pulled up above the mixed melt. |
| US07833345B2 |
Treatment of crystals in order to avoid light-induced modifications of the refractive index
A method for the treatment of a crystal, such as a lithium niobate crystal or lithium tantalate crystal, having nonlinear optical properties. The crystal comprises foreign atoms which bring about specific absorption of radiated light. The foreign atoms are transformed into a lower valent state by means of oxidation. Electrons, which are released during oxidation, are discharged from the crystal with the aid of an external power source. |
| US07833343B2 |
Universal stir-in pigments
The invention relates to a pigment preparation containing (a) 50-99 percent by weight of at least one pigment, (b) 1 to 50 percent by weight of an additive based on polyalkylene glycols, and (c) 0 to 10 percent by weight of an auxiliary agent from among the group comprising fillers, fire retardants, preservatives, light-stability agents, pigmentary and non-pigmentary dispersing agents, surfactants, antioxidants, foam inhibitors, resins, and antistatic agents, the percentages being in relation to the total weight of the pigment preparation. The additive that is based on polyalkylene glycols corresponds to formula Z′-[-(AO—)n1—B-T-X—Y]m—Z (1), wherein AO represents a C2-C10 alkyleneoxy unit, B represents a C2-C10 alkylene radical, and T represents —NR—, X represents one of the groups (formula), and Y represents a chemical bond or —NR3—. |
| US07833336B2 |
Pigmented inkjet ink comprising a bleed control agent
The present invention provides an ink for inkjet printing, comprising an aqueous vehicle, a pigment colorant and an effective amount of 3-butoxypropylamine as a bleed control agent. The ink exhibits reduced intercolor bleed when printed, for example, on plain paper. |
| US07833334B2 |
Ink composition for continuous deviated jet printing
Ink composition for continuous deviated jet printing, which is liquid at ambient temperature, comprising: a)—a solvent, representing at least 10% of the total weight of the ink composition; b)—at least one compound that can be dissociated into at least one anion and at least one cation, said compound representing at least 0.1%, preferably from 0.1% to 20%, more preferably from 0.1% to 10%, better still from 0.1% to 5% by weight of the total weight of the ink composition; c)—at least one compound that complexes said cation or said anion, representing at least 0.1% by weight of the total weight of the ink composition. Process for marking objects using this ink and substrate provided with marking obtained by drying the ink composition. |
| US07833331B2 |
Non-toxic corrosion-protection pigments based on cobalt
Corrosion-inhibiting pigments based on cobalt are described that contain a trivalent or tetravalent cobalt/valence stabilizer complex. An inorganic or organic material is used to stabilize the trivalent or tetravalent cobalt ion to form a compound that is sparingly soluble in water. Specific stabilizers are chosen to control the release rate of trivalent or tetravalent cobalt during exposure to water and to tailor the compatibility of the powder when used as a pigment in a chosen binder system. Stabilizers may also modify the processing and handling characteristics of the formed powders. Cobalt/valence stabilizer combinations are chosen based on the well-founded principles of cobalt coordination chemistry. Many cobalt-valence stabilizer combinations are presented that can equal the performance of conventional hexavalent chromium systems. |
| US07833326B2 |
Systems and methods for regulating heating assembly operation through pressure swing adsorption purge control
Pressure swing adsorption (PSA) assemblies with purge control systems, and hydrogen-generation assemblies and/or fuel cell systems containing the same. The PSA assemblies are operated according to a PSA cycle to produce a product hydrogen stream and a byproduct stream from a mixed gas stream. The byproduct stream may be delivered as a fuel stream to a heating assembly, which may heat the hydrogen-producing region that produces the mixed gas stream. The PSA assemblies may be adapted to regulate the flow of purge gas utilized therein, such as according to a predetermined, non-constant profile. In some embodiments, the flow of purge gas is regulated to maintain the flow rate and/or fuel value of the byproduct stream at or within a determined range of a threshold value, and/or to regulate the flow of purge gas to limit the concentration of carbon monoxide in a heated exhaust stream produced from the byproduct stream. |
| US07833325B2 |
Sorption column
A sorption column for waste-gas cleaning has a vat-shaped housing (1) for receiving a solid stationary sorbent, an inlet for waste gas to be cleaned into the housing (1) and an outlet for cleaned waste gas out of the housing (1). The housing circumferential wall (2) is provided in the area of the housing bottom (3) and the housing cover (4) in each case with a depression (9, 10) for receiving a ball valve (11) at the waste gas inlet or a ball valve (12) at the waste gas outlet. |
| US07833320B2 |
Method and apparatus for a self-cleaning filter
A method and apparatus for removing fine particulate matter from a fluid stream without interrupting the overall process or flow. The flowing fluid inflates and expands the flexible filter, and particulate is deposited on the filter media while clean fluid is permitted to pass through the filter. This filter is cleaned when the fluid flow is stopped, the filter collapses, and a force is applied to distort the flexible filter media to dislodge the built-up filter cake. The dislodged filter cake falls to a location that allows undisrupted flow of the fluid after flow is restored. The shed particulate is removed to a bin for periodic collection. A plurality of filter cells can operate independently or in concert, in parallel, or in series to permit cleaning the filters without shutting off the overall fluid flow. The self-cleaning filter is low cost, has low power consumption, and exhibits low differential pressures. |
| US07833318B2 |
Container
Containers, particularly to containers for storing dry granules and powders, for examples silos. A container can include an air filter for cleaning the air that pneumatically conveys bulk product into the container. A valve can be used to restrict the air flow through the air filter, thereby elevating the pressure within the container to above atmospheric pressure. |
| US07833316B2 |
Doped supported zinc oxide sorbents for regenerable desulfurization applications
Disclosed are sorbent compositions that include a silicon dioxide porous support impregnated with a mixture comprising zinc oxide and copper material. The sorbent compositions may be utilized in systems and methods for removing sulfur compounds from gaseous streams. |
| US07833312B2 |
Method of drying an air dehumidifier
The invention relates to a method for controlling a heatable dehumidifier. The heating of the dehumidifier is to be actuated only when several congruent time windows within which a temperature gradient is greater than or equal to 0 could be determined during a certain period of time, i.e. the heating is to be actuated only when no air flows into the interior of the expansion vessel of the transformer. |
| US07833309B2 |
Air treatment system
An air treatment system includes features for maximizing efficiency and effectiveness. In one embodiment, a sensor air passage utilizes a low pressure region created by the blower to draw air through the passage. In another embodiment, a filter frame includes a plurality of connectors formed integrally with the filter frame. In another embodiment, a screen is positioned adjacent to the blower intake. The screen includes a plurality of angled strands oriented in a particular direction. In another embodiment, a remote control holder is formed integrally with the housing. In another embodiment, a gasket is positioned between the blower and the housing, forming a seal between the blower and the housing. |
| US07833308B2 |
Filter assembly with multiple inlets and multiple filter members
The present invention discloses a filter assembly which includes a compartmented housing structure having a plurality of inlets and an outlet. A first inlet is positioned in flow communication with a first chamber portion and a first filter member. A second inlet is positioned in flow communication with a second chamber portion and a second filter member. A third chamber portion is located between the first and second filter members and is in flow communication with the outlet such that ambient air entering the housing through the first and second inlets will flow through the first and second filter members into the third chamber portion and through the outlet. |
| US07833301B2 |
Engine exhaust cooler and air pre-cleaner aspirator
A diffuser for a work machine having an air breathing fuel consuming internal combustion engine with an exhaust aftertreatment device periodically elevating the exhaust temperatures to a high level. The diffuser has a venturi section and the excess contaminants from an intake air pre-cleaner are directed to the throat of the venturi to aspirate and dispose of excess contaminants while cooling the exhaust flow. Additional openings in the divergent section of the diffuser assist in providing significant reductions in exhaust temperatures within a short axial envelope. |
| US07833297B2 |
Polishing pad containing interpenetrating liquified vinyl monomer network with polyurethane matrix therein
Provided is a polyurethane polishing pad. More specifically, the present invention provides a polyurethane polishing pad having an interpenetrating network structure of a vinyl polymer with a polyurethane matrix via radical polymerization and having no pores and gas bubbles. The polyurethane polishing pad having an interpenetrating network structure of a vinyl polymer exhibits uniform dispersibility and reduced changes in hardness of the urethane pad due to heat and slurry, thereby resulting in no deterioration of polishing efficiency due to abrasion heat and solubility in the slurry upon polishing, and also enables a high-temperature polishing operation. Further, according to the present invention, the interpenetrating network structure leads to an improved polishing rate and abrasion performance, thereby significantly increasing the service life of the polishing pad. |
| US07833295B2 |
Fuel composition
Unleaded blend compositions, as well as formulated gasolines containing them have a Motor Octane Number (MON) of at least 80 comprising either: (i) component (a) at least 5% (by volume of the total composition) of at least one hydrocarbon having the following formula I R—CH2—CH(CH3)—C(CH3)2—CH3 I wherein R is hydrogen or methyl, especially triptane, or (ii) at least 2% of component (a′), which is at least one branched chain alkane of MON value of at least 90 and of boiling point 15-160° C. or a substantially aliphatic hydrocarbon refinery stream, of MON value of at least 85, at least 70% in total of said stream being branched chain alkanes, said stream being obtainable or obtained by distillation from a refinery material as a cut having Initial Boiling Point of at least 15° C. and Final Boiling Point of at most 160° C., said Boiling Points being measured according to ASTMD2892, or (iii) at least 10% of component (a″), which is at least one branched chain alkane of 8-12 carbons with at least 4 methyl or ethyl branches The components (a), (a′) and (a″) give rise to reduced emissions to the composition or gasoline on combustion. |
| US07833293B2 |
Multiple electronic components: combination capacitor and Zener diode
A Zener diode-capacitor combination wherein a Zener diode is mounted in the capacitor body and connected in parallel with the capacitor after the capacitor has been voltage tested. A welded strap or jumper wire completing the diode circuit or a connection of separate terminations during soldering may be used to complete the circuit. |
| US07833292B2 |
Channel method for forming a capacitor
An improved method for forming a capacitor. The method includes providing a carrier with a channel therein, providing a metal foil with a valve metal with a first dielectric on a first face of the metal foil, securing the metal foil into the channel with the first dielectric away from a channel floor, inserting an insulative material between the metal foil and each side wall of the channel, forming a cathode layer on the first dielectric between the insulative material, forming a conductive layer on the cathode layer and in electrical contact with the carrier, lap cutting the carrier parallel to the metal foil such that the valve metal is exposed, and dice cutting to form singulated capacitors. |
| US07833289B1 |
Hair care component and method of manufacture for use in a hair coloring system
The present invention relates to a hair care component and method of manufacture for use in a hair coloring system. In one embodiment of the invention, a hair care component for use in a hair coloring system includes a mixture resulting from blending an aqueous solution, an emulsion, and a cationic water-in-oil liquid dispersion of an alkylene, olefinically unsaturated (alkyl)amide. The emulsion includes a polysiloxane (A)-polyoxyalkylene (B) block copolymer of an (A-B)n-type. The copolymer includes an aminofunctional silicone. The liquid dispersion inverts from the water-in-oil phase to an oil-in-water phase when mixed with the aqueous solution. |
| US07833287B2 |
Adjustable multi-axis prosthetic ankle and method of use thereof
A multi-axis prosthetic ankle having an adjustable range of articulation and a method of adjusting the range of articulation of such an ankle. A lower leg connection component extends from the receiving cavity of a prosthetic foot connection component. The remainder of the receiving cavity is substantially filled with an elastomeric material. An interchangeable external bearing resides atop a portion of the elastomeric material and includes an aperture through which a portion of the lower leg connection component passes. By exchanging an installed external bearing for an external bearing having an aperture of different size, the limits of movement of the lower leg connection component can be altered and the overall range of articulation of the ankle adjusted. |
| US07833280B2 |
Satiation devices and methods
A device for inducing weight loss in a patient includes a tubular prosthesis self-expandable from a collapsed position in which the prosthesis has a first diameter to an expanded position in which the prosthesis has a second, larger, diameter. In a method for inducing weight loss, the prosthesis is placed in the collapsed position and inserted into a stomach of a patient. The prosthesis is allowed to self-expand from the collapsed position to the expanded position and into contact with the walls of the stomach, where it induces feelings of satiety and/or inhibits modulation of satiety-controlling factors such as Ghrelin. |
| US07833279B2 |
Pancreatic exocrine secretion diversion apparatus and method
A method and apparatus for treating a patient's health condition by diverting pancreatic exocrine secretions include a flow diverter of material compatible with chronic residence within a small intestine of the patient. The flow diverter has a cover end and a discharge end. The flow diverter is sized to be placed within the small intestine with the discharge end placed distally from said cover end and with said flow diverter further sized so permit passage of chyme through the small intestine and past the flow diverter. The cover end is sized to cover a discharge papilla of the pancreatic duct. The diverter is adapted to divert at least a portion of pancreatic exocrine secretion from the papilla to the distal discharge end. |
| US07833273B2 |
Physiologically movable intervertebral disc prosthesis for the lumbar and cervical spine
Disclosed is an intervertebral disc prosthesis for the total replacement of a natural intervertebral disc within the lumbar and cervical spine, comprising of articulating sliding partners. The upper sliding partner has means for a firm assembly to an upper vertebral body and the lower sliding partner has means for a firm assembly to a lower vertebral body. At least one sliding surface is between two sliding partners. Two- and three-part functional designs are planned and both having in common, that, as a result of the shape of the articulating surface(s), the laterolateral and dorsoventral motion amplitudes differ. The resulting angles including the rotation around a fictitious vertical axis can be defined to a desired extent. |
| US07833270B2 |
Implant depots to deliver growth factors to treat osteoporotic bone
The present invention relates to the design and composition of a depot implant for optimal delivery of growth factors to treat osteoporotic bone, in that such depot implant is constructed to be in a cylinder (rod) or sphere shape and have a natural or synthetic polymer scaffold with or without impregnated calcium phosphate particles. The density of the depot is higher than a typical BMP sponge carrier to facilitate it's implantation and slower release of the growth factor. The scaffold is such that it has adequate porosity and pore size to facilitate growth factor seeding and diffusion throughout the whole of the bone structure resulting in increased bone mineral density in the osteoporotic bone. In addition, the shape of the depot implant allows for delivery through a cannula or large bore needle. |
| US07833264B2 |
Bifurcated stent
A stent, with expanded and unexpanded configurations, comprises a substantially tubular body having a proximal end region, a distal end region, and defining a first lumen therethrough. The tubular body comprises a plurality of adjacent deployable elements positioned between the proximal end region and distal end region. In the expanded configuration the deployable elements define a second lumen. The first lumen has a first longitudinal axis and the second lumen has a second longitudinal axis which is at an oblique angle relative to the first longitudinal axis. The first lumen is in fluid communication with the second lumen. The tubular body comprises a track region which further comprises at least two struts. The struts are substantially parallel to each other and the first longitudinal axis in the unexpanded configuration. The track region is comprised of at least one of the deployable elements. |
| US07833261B2 |
Severable support for a stent
A stent with at least one severable supporting device and methods of coating using the same are disclosed. The severable supporting device can be an end tube or a tab attached to some portion of the stent by at least one “gate” or attachment. The end tube or tab may be part of the design of the stent when it is originally manufactured, or it may be attached to the stent in a secondary process by a biocompatible glue or solder. The end tube or tab can be used to support a stent during a coating process eliminating the need for a mandrel which would otherwise contact the stent during the coating process. |
| US07833260B2 |
Bioabsorbable polymeric medical device
In embodiments there is described a cardiovascular tube-shaped lockable and expandable bioabsorbable scaffold having a low immunogenicity manufactured from a crystallizable bioabsorbable polymer composition or blend. |
| US07833259B2 |
Fenestrated endoluminal stent system
An intraluminal prosthesis is provided for strengthening a main lumen and a branch lumen in direct fluid communication with the main lumen. The prosthesis may comprise a tubular graft and a flexible stent. The tubular graft may include a flexible body having a wall with a fenestration. The flexible stent may include a body with at least one open space to encourage tissue prolapse. The flexible stent may be configured for intraluminal coupling to the fenestration of the tubular graft, so that the entire prosthesis may be assembled and anchored into a main lumen and a branch lumen with a minimally invasive procedure. The open space may encourage tissue prolapse, which may act to anchor the flexible stent to the branch lumen. |
| US07833257B2 |
Apparatus and methods for optical stimulation of the auditory nerve
A cochlear implant placed in a cochlea of a living subject for stimulating the auditory system of the living subject, where the auditory system comprises auditory neurons. In one embodiment, the cochlear implant includes a plurality of light sources, {Li}, placeable distal to the cochlea, each light source, L1, being operable independently and adapted for generating an optical energy, Ei, wherein i=1, . . . , N, and N is the number of the light sources, and delivering means placeable in the cochlea and optically coupled to the plurality of light sources, {Li}, such that in operation, the optical energies {Ei} generated by the plurality of light sources {Li} are delivered to target sites, {Gi}, of auditory neurons, respectively, wherein the target sites G1 and GN of auditory neurons are substantially proximate to the apical end and the basal end of the cochlea, respectively. |
| US07833255B2 |
Bone fasteners and method for stabilizing vertebral bone facets using the bone fasteners
A bone fastener for stabilizing bone fragments includes a single or multiple components coupleable with one another and displaceable to a locked position of the bone fastener. |
| US07833254B2 |
Device for the ostheosynthesis of proximal humerus fractures
A device for use in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures, comprising a substantially spoon-shaped body having a blade-like proximal portion intended to complement the humerus head and provided with at least one seat in which to insert a wire, a threaded nail, or a similar element to stabilize the fracture, a plate-like and elongate distal portion, intended to complement the humerus neck and provided with at least one seat in which to insert a screw or a similar element to fix the body to the humerus, and a central bulge, or block, interposed between the proximal portion and the distal portion and wherein a seat is obtained in which to insert a screw intended to stabilize the humerus head. |
| US07833251B1 |
System and method for performing spinal fixation
The present invention relates to medical devices and methods generally aimed at spinal surgery. In particular, the disclosed system and associated methods relate to performing spinal fixation. |
| US07833250B2 |
Polyaxial bone screw with helically wound capture connection
A polyaxial bone screw assembly includes a threaded shank body having an upper capture structure, a head and a closed retainer ring. The external capture structure surface and retainer ring internal bore surface are both threaded for rotatable attachment within a cavity of the head. The head has a U-shaped cradle defining a channel for receiving a spinal fixation rod. The head channel communicates with the cavity and further with a restrictive opening that allows for loading the capture structure into the head but prevents passage of the closed retainer ring out of the head. The retainer ring has an external substantially spherical surface that mates with an internal surface of the head, providing a ball joint, enabling the head to be disposed at an angle relative to the shank body. The threaded capture structure or the closed retainer structure includes a tool engagement formation and gripping surfaces for non-slip engagement by a tool for driving the shank body into bone. |
| US07833249B2 |
Formable orthopedic fixation system
An implantable inflatable orthopedic device is provided. The device comprises a flexible wall, defining an interior cavity, a reinforcing element exposed to the cavity, an inflation pathway in communication with the cavity, and a valve, for closing the pathway. A delivery catheter is also provided for removably carrying the orthopedic device to the treatment site. |
| US07833246B2 |
Interspinous process and sacrum implant and method
A minimally invasive implant for the lumbosacral region of the spine. One embodiment includes an implant with a brace movably attached to a base. The brace includes a spacer and a beam. The base may be adapted to be mounted onto a S1 vertebra. The brace may be selectively positioned on the base with the spacer extending outward to contact a second vertebra. |
| US07833243B2 |
Medical grasping and holding instrument
The invention relates to a medical grasping and holding instrument with a handle consisting of two handgrips and with a holding portion that consists of at least two jaw members and can be activated by the handle. The jaw members of the holding portion can be locked by means of a spring element both in an end position that releases the holding portion and in an end position that locks the holding portion. In order to create a medical grasping and holding instrument that is of simple construction, can be operated with just one hand, and is easy to clean, it is proposed with this invention that the spring element, configured as a flat spring, for locking the jaw members in their end positions is mounted between the handgrips of the handle so as to connect the two handgrips to one another in such a way that the spring element can be moved by way of a bearing point of a handgrip at the spring element between two end positions that release the spring element. |
| US07833242B2 |
Embolic protection device
An embolic protection device has a collapsible filter element (105) mounted on a carrier such as a guidewire (101). The filter element (105) collapses into the outer end of a catheter (118) for deployment and retrieval through a vascular system of a patient. The filter element (105) has a collapsible filter body with a proximal inlet end and a distal outlet end. The proximal inlet end has inlet openings sized to allow blood and embolic material enter the filter body. The outlet end has outlet openings which allow through passage of blood but retain embolic material within the filter body. After use, the catheter (118) is movable along the guidewire (101) to engage the proximal end of the filter element and close the inlet openings before sliding over the filter element from the proximal end to the distal end to progressively collapse the filter body on the guidewire (101) for retrieval. The filter element (105) may conveniently be mounted on a tubular sleeve (104) which is slidable and rotatable on the guidewire (101) between spaced-apart stops (106, 120) on the guidewire (101) which allows some manipulation of the guidewire independently of the filter when the filter is in use. |
| US07833241B2 |
Surgical saw blade coupler
A surgical saw blade coupler for removably holding a surgical saw blade. The surgical saw blade may be of various shapes and sizes, including, but not limited to straight or crescentic. The surgical saw blade coupler includes a cap, a pin and a driver. The driver is rotatably coupled to a motor within a housing. A cup is located within the housing within a bearing. The cap and the pin form a slot which receives a first end of the surgical saw blade. The cap and the pin also form a groove for receiving a back edge of the surgical saw blade. The surgical saw blade coupler is moveable between an open position in which the surgical saw blade may be removed, exchanged or inserted, and a closed position. A biasing spring acts against a button and the pin to close the coupler. |
| US07833238B2 |
Endoscopic anchoring device and associated method
An endoscopic fastening assembly having a diameter sufficiently small so that the fastening assembly is slidably insertable into a working channel of a flexible or rigid endoscope for performing a fastening operation, comprises one or more surgical anchors within an elongated tubular member configured for delivery and deployment of said anchors. One or more anchors being disposed in a substantially closed pre-deployment configuration inside the tubular body are configured for being delivered and deployed into a target tissue while remaining in a substantially closed configuration, and assuming its open anchoring properties only once embedded in tissue. |
| US07833235B2 |
Placing sutures
A suturing instrument including multiple needle and suture assemblies that are at least partially disposed within the suturing instrument allows a surgeon to place multiple sutures intercorporally without having to remove the instrument from a surgical site and reload the instrument between placing each suture. The suturing instrument includes an elongate body member that includes a distal portion defining an opening. The suturing instrument further includes a first needle disposed within the opening, a second needle disposed within the opening, and a needle deployment mechanism disposed at least partially within the elongate body member and connectable sequentially to the first needle and the second needle. |
| US07833234B2 |
Appliance for storing, distributing and placing surgical fasteners
An appliance for storing, distributing and placing surgical fasteners comprises a handgrip body and an elongate element attached to the handgrip. The elongate element includes a magazine slide adapted to be displaced in the elongate element by a control rod. The control rod can be, in turn, actuated by the handgrip. The magazine slide also has surgical fasteners. Each surgical fastener has an anchoring bar, a catching bar and a connecting strip. A distal part of the anchoring bar has a conical shape. A distal end of the distal part of the anchoring bar has a hemispherical shape. |
| US07833232B2 |
Epilator
An epilator with an improved structure is provided. The epilator may comprise a main shaft passing through epilating leaves, and a motor device that drives the main shaft. The epilating leaves may comprise a single structure and the two epilating leaves may form a gap therebetween in which hair may be trapped. |
| US07833227B2 |
Cable and crimp for bone surgery
A surgical cable and crimp device is provided. The cable has an enlargement (bead) affixed to one of its ends. The crimp member includes two holes. One of the holes includes a slot and a cavity. The cavity is sized to accept the bead of the cable, and the slot is sized to receive the flexible cable but not allow the bead to pass through. The other hole is a simple through hole. The cable can be inserted to loop the bone isolated from the crimp member. After the beaded end of the surgical cable is fastened to the crimp, the cable is passed through the simple through hole. The cable is then tensioned by the application thereto of a tensioning tool with the tool applied to the cable and to an abutment face of the crimp member. |
| US07833223B2 |
Tri-bending sphinctertome
Disclosed herein are devices and methods for forming multidirectional cuts in tissue. The tissue cutting devices disclosed herein generally include a flexible elongate member with at least first, second, and third wires that are at least partially constrained within or along a portion of the member. A distal portion of the wires is anchored on or within a portion of the elongate member. When tension is applied to at least one of the wires, such as by an actuator at a proximal end of the device, the elongate member bows while an unconstrained portion of the wire becomes exposed relative to the adjacent portion of the elongate member, assuming a tissue-cutting configuration. |
| US07833221B2 |
System and method for treatment of tissue using the tissue as a fiducial
A method and system for treating tissue with a surgical device includes the steps of displaying an image created by collecting imaging data from an imaging device, selecting at least one tissue target from the image, collecting image data and tracking the tissue target during at least one respiration cycle, determining the dwell position of the tissue target, and displaying an image created from image data collected with the tissue target at the dwell position. The method may further include determining the position and orientation of the surgical device with respect to the dwell position and indicating the trajectory of the surgical device on the display screen. The method may further include the steps of monitoring the respiration cycle, indicating when the tissue target is approaching the dwell position, positioning the surgical device in the patient based upon the dwell position and trajectory and treating the tissue target. |
| US07833219B2 |
Operation apparatus controller and surgery system
The operation apparatus controller controls a group of apparatuses including multiple medical apparatuses, which respectively can store patient IDs. Also, the operation apparatus controller has a patient ID comparing section which compares the patient ID stored in the various apparatuses within the group of apparatuses and a notifying section which notifies that the compared patient ID matches or does not match, based on the comparison results of the patient ID. |
| US07833218B2 |
Catheter with reinforcing layer having variable strand construction
A catheter includes an elongate member having a braided reinforcing layer encased within a polymeric bonding layer. The reinforcing layer comprises a plurality of continuous filaments that transform from a full complement braid configuration to a partial complement braid configuration in a least one location along the catheter. Also disclosed is a method of manufacturing a braided elongate member including providing a core, forming at least one full complement braid portion with a plurality of filaments and forming at least one partial complement braid portion with a portion of the same plurality of filaments. |
| US07833212B2 |
Disposable absorbent article designed to facilitate an easy change
A disposable absorbent article to be worn about the lower torso of a wearer that facilitates an easy, intuitive change is provided. The disposable absorbent article includes at least one serviceable indicium that facilitates an easy change by providing alignment of the article relative to an anatomical feature of the wearer or by externally highlighting one or more components of the article thereby indicating alignment and fit about the wearer's lower torso. |
| US07833209B2 |
Absorbent article
An elongated absorbent article including: an absorbent article body having at least: (a) a top sheet part which is at least partially liquid permeable and arranged on a first side in a thickness direction of the absorbent article; and (b) a liquid retainable absorber part arranged on a second side in the thickness direction of the absorbent article body; a cover member arranged on the second side in the thickness direction of the absorbent article body; an extensible belt-shaped member disposed between the absorbent article body and the cover member, a first end portion of the belt-shaped member being connected to the absorbent article body; an engaging part arranged at a second end portion of the belt-shaped member on a surface thereof on which the cover member is disposed; a peelable sheet arranged along a surface of the engaging part; and a fixing part for connecting and fixing the peelable sheet to the cover member; the fixing part being formed so that an end portion thereof in a direction of elongation of the belt-shaped member is arranged at either one of a position corresponding to an end portion of the engaging part in the direction of elongation, and a position more towards the direction of elongation. This improves the adhesion between the wearer's excretory part and the absorbent article, thereby preventing the leakage of excrement such as menstrual blood. |
| US07833202B2 |
Method of gastrostomy, and an infection preventive cover, or catheter kit, and a gastrostomy catheter
Disclosed is an infection preventive catheter kit for preventing the infection of the wound. A percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) catheter 20 is inserted into an infection preventive cover 10, which is provided with a socket 13 at a distal end thereof. A head portion 15a of a guide wire 15 which is inserted into the PEG catheter 20 through a top end thereof and an in-stomach remaining member 23 provided at a distal end of the PEG catheter 20 are engaged with (fixed to) the socket 13 of the infection preventive cover 10 by a pin 14 penetrating the socket 13. |
| US07833198B2 |
Blood collection device
A safety needle assembly has a needle hub and a needle cannula projecting from the hub. Wings project transversely from the hub to facilitate manipulation and positioning of the needle assembly. A shield is hingedly attached to the needle hub and can be rotated from a first position where the needle cannula is exposed to a second position where the needle cannula is shielded. At least one latch may be disposed on the shield for secure locked engagement with the hub, the wings and/or the tubing extending from the hub. A spring may also be provided for propelling the shield into the second position. |
| US07833197B2 |
Catheter incorporating a guidewire exit ramp
Guidewire exit ramp members that may be placed over a tubular member having a guidewire lumen, which longitudinally extending and laterally accessible, and methods of use. The guidewire exit ramp member can be placed to force a guidewire loaded through the lumen in a first direction to be forced out of the lumen via an opening, slit or channel. The guidewire exit ramp member, in an illustrative embodiment, takes the form of a relatively short member having a proximal portion and a distally extending flap. The flap may be designed to enter and remain in a longitudinally accessible guidewire lumen. Combinations of such ramp members and device shafts having longitudinally extending laterally accessible guidewire lumens are also disclosed, as are methods for securing such combinations together. A method of backloading a guidewire into a catheter while causing lateral exit of the guidewire at a desired location is also shown. |
| US07833193B2 |
Catheter shaft junction having a polymeric multilayered sleeve with a low processing temperature outer layer
One aspect of the invention is directed to a balloon catheter with a multilayered polymeric sleeve at the rapid exchange intermediate section, having an outer layer formed of a polymer with a relatively low processing temperature (i.e., melting temperature for semi-crystalline polymers or glass transition temperature for amorphous polymers), and having an inner layer. |
| US07833189B2 |
Controlled needle-free transport
A needle-free transdermal transport device for transferring a substance across a surface of a biological body includes a reservoir for storing the substance, a nozzle in fluid communication with the reservoir and a controllable electromagnetic actuator in communication with the reservoir. The actuator, referred to as a Lorentz force actuator, includes a stationary magnet assembly and a moving coil assembly. The coil assembly moves a piston having an end portion positioned within the reservoir. The actuator receives an electrical input and generates in response a corresponding force acting on the piston and causing a needle-free transfer of the substance between the reservoir and the biological body. The magnitude, direction and duration of the force are dynamically controlled (e.g., servo-controlled) by the electrical input and can be altered during the course of an actuation cycle. Beneficially, the actuator can be moved in different directions according to the electrical input. |
| US07833187B2 |
Systems and methods for improving image-guided tissue ablation
The cryosurgical kit and method of use relates to the combined use of biodegradable, imageable, drug(s) carriers, vectors or microcapsules deposited into a target tissue region inside a body and the controlled cooling of the target tissue region. A minimally invasive method of treatment that applies a cooling device to a selected tissue region, uses a vibrating resonant frequency delivery device to inject drug(s) carriers (microcapsules) containing therapeutic and contrast agents into tissue region(s) submitted to cooling temperatures, successive real-time imaging of the microcapsule deposition and later detection of the progressive degradation of microcapsules with ultrasound imaging which provides estimation of sustained release rates and for planning re-dosing regimens. The thermosensitive microcapsules preferably contain ethiodol, a contrast agent for Ultrasound and/or X-Ray imaging, and cytotoxic drug(s). |
| US07833185B2 |
Apparatus for separating a volume of whole blood into at least three components
A method and apparatus for separating a volume of whole blood contained in a separation bag into at least three components comprising centrifuging the separation bag so as to separate therein a first inner layer comprising plasma, a second intermediate layer comprising platelets, a third intermediate layer comprising lymphocytes, monocytes and granulocytes and a fourth outer layer comprising red blood cells, transferring, into a plasma component bag connected to the separation bag, a plasma component and transferring into a mononuclear cell component bag a mononuclear cell components. |
| US07833184B2 |
Device and method for treating foot with adustable bladder
A device and method for treating a foot and ankle with a splint and an adjustable bladder. The method includes providing a device including a rigid splint that maintains a heel of the foot and at least one adjustable bladder provided underneath only a front of the foot; adjusting an inflation of the at least one bladder to a treatment inflation state; and maintaining a foot and ankle within the device for an extended period of time such that the foot and ankle are substantially immobilized in a dorsiflexion position or the foot and ankle are substantially immobilized in a position whereby plantarflexion is provided to the ankle. |
| US07833182B2 |
Back support apparatus and method
A device to support the human back/spine and provide assistance in bending, lifting and standing upright comprises a strap and belt system for attachment to the body and one or more bias/tension member to provide the force necessary to urge the user's back to remain or return to a straight position. When used as intended, the device serves to encourage a healthy body position for lifting, and/or to alleviate or prevent back pain associated with bending or lifting. The bias/tension member preferably comprises at least one tension rod that is adjustably fixed to a waist belt, and slidably received by an upper bracket at or near the shoulder blade region of the back. The length of the preferred two tension rods, in effect, may be adjusted by adjusting how or where the rods are fixed to the waist belt, for example. The angle at which the tension rods are held by the upper bracket, and, hence, the angle the upper portions of the tension rods are held relative to the lower portions of the tension rods, may be adjusted to accommodate different body types. With the device installed on the user's upper body, bending over will tend to bend the rods, and, hence, the resilient rods will support or tend to suspend the upper body and will help the user to straighten when desired. |
| US07833181B2 |
Adjustable ergonomic brace
A knee brace has push button actuatable stops, wherein the stops are biased outward into angular locking positions and inwardly directed pressure on the push buttons releases the stops and permits angular adjustment of the stops. A pair of catch plates with locking recesses facing inward, are provided, and outwardly biased locking pins engage the recesses in both catch plates. Each of the stop assemblies has an outwardly directed plate extending over the outer cover plate, and this plate is coupled to the physical stop member around the outer edge of the outer cover plate. The cover plate has angular indicia thereon, which may be viewed through windows in the outwardly extending plate portions of the stop assemblies. |
| US07833177B2 |
Breast feeding quantification
Presented is a method for quantifying breastfeeding between a mother and a baby, the method including measuring a physiological volume indicative of stomach fullness volume for the baby; setting a signal threshold value of the physiological volume to correspond to a stomach level that is less than or equal to the stomach fullness volume; obtaining an objective measurement of the physiological volume indicative of a level of fullness of the baby's stomach; and providing an indication to the mother when the objective measurement equals or exceeds the signal threshold value. |
| US07833174B2 |
Method and apparatus for subcutaneously advancing a device between locations
A method and apparatus (10) for advancing a device (12) underneath the skin (102) in a mammalian body comprises a casing (50) made of a magnetic material. The casing (50) has a closed tip (64) at one end and an aperture (65) in an opposite end. The casing (50) includes an annular inner surface (70) that defines a cavity (76) within the casing for receiving a device (12) that projects through the aperture (65). The casing (50) further includes structure for attaching to the device (12). The casing (50) is operable to advance the device (12) through tissue (100) underlying the skin (102) in response to movement of a magnetic field across the skin. |
| US07833169B2 |
Device and method for the collection of a urine sample
A device and method for collection of a urine sample is disclosed which comprises a channel, an opening in the channel, and a collector associated with the opening. The channel is formed so that urine can flow through it from a first end to a second end thereof. The opening is provided in the channel at a point between the first and the second ends thereof. The collector is associated with the opening in the channel to be able to receive urine therein. In one embodiment, a member can cover the opening to permit urine to pass through it after contact with urine. Specifically, the member may dissolve or otherwise permit urine to pass through the opening after a period of time to test a urine sample which is not from the initial flow of urine to avoid bacteria contamination. |
| US07833166B2 |
Breath alcohol-measuring device with an illuminated mouthpiece
A breath alcohol-measuring device is provided, which includes a mouthpiece which can be inserted or attached, with a blow-in opening and with a blow-out opening and with a hole for breathing gas sampling in the breath alcohol-measuring device. The breath alcohol-measuring device (2) is equipped with a radiation source (3) and with a light guide (4) receiving the radiation of the radiation source (3). The light guide (4) is arranged extending from the housing of the breath alcohol-measuring device (2) up to the blow-out opening of the mouthpiece (1) such that the light guide (4) acts as an illuminating means for the mouthpiece (1). |
| US07833165B2 |
System for monitoring neural shunt function and associated methods
A system and method for evaluating neural shunt functionality is provided. Accordingly, in one aspect a method for monitoring neural shunt functionality may include measuring a first intracranial pressure pulse inside the shunt, measuring a second intracranial pressure pulse outside the shunt, and comparing pulsatile characteristics from the first measurement to the second measurement in order to determine shunt functionality. |
| US07833163B2 |
Steering angle varied pattern for ultrasound imaging with a two-dimensional array
Methods and systems for varying a pattern as a function of steering angle for medical imaging with a multidimensional array are provided. Transmit waveform, delay, phase or apodization patterns in addition to delays, phases or apodization for focusing are used with a multidimensional array. By applying a periodic variation perpendicular to the steering direction, the effects of grating lobes due to the variation may be reduced. Along the steering direction, additional offsets are not provided, but may be provided. This different or non-existent offsets provide less grating lobe clutter. The transmit aperture is adjusted to be parallel to a direction of steering of non-normal transmit scan line or scan lines. The variation pattern is selected to result in enhancement or isolation of one or more frequency bands from one or more other frequency bands, such as isolation of second harmonic information from fundamental transmit frequency information. |
| US07833160B2 |
Blood viscosity measurement device
A blood viscosity measurement device has a flow rate calculating section that calculates a flow rate of blood flowing through a blood vessel of a living body. An inner diameter calculating section calculates an inner diameter of the blood vessel. A blood pressure data acquiring device acquires blood pressure data corresponding to a blood pressure of the blood vessel. A viscosity calculating section calculates a viscosity of the blood flowing through the blood vessel using each of the calculated flow rate, the calculated inner diameter, and the acquired blood pressure data. |
| US07833159B2 |
Image processing system and method of enhancing the quality of an ultrasound image
The present invention relates to an image processing system for enhancing the image quality of an ultrasound image. The image processing system may include: an image data forming unit for forming image data based on image signals acquired from a target object; a log-compression unit for log-compressing the image data to provide a log-compressed image; a TGC processor for analyzing a vertical profile of pixel intensities in the log-compressed image and automatically setting a TGC (time gain compensation) parameter based on the analysis result; a gain processor for calculating mean brightness of pixels included in the log-compressed image applying the set TGC parameter and comparing the calculated mean brightness with predetermined brightness, thereby automatically setting a gain parameter based on a comparison result; a DR processor for automatically setting a DR (dynamic range) parameter by using edge contrast and background roughness of the log-compressed image applying the set TGC and gain parameters; and an image forming unit for applying the TGC, gain and DR parameters to the image data. |
| US07833157B2 |
Multilumen catheter
A multilumen catheter having tubings extending into lumens within the catheter. The lumens may be used for blood, drugs or other medicants. The lumens may also be used for sensors. The junction element, external to the patient, connects the tubings to the lumens. The tubings, also external to the patient, connect to infusion members, to which one or more infusion systems may be connected to deliver blood, drugs and other medicants to the patient. A sensor having a sensing element may extend through the sensor lumen and be positioned internal to the patient for physiological parameter sensing. An external portion of the sensor may be connected to associated electronics to provide automatic monitoring of the physiological parameters and automatic delivery and control of the infusants. Also, a central line catheter for delivering fluids directly into a main artery or vein near the heart, which contains a first lumen to deliver a fluid through the central line catheter and a second lumen containing a sensor capable indicating a characteristic level in blood. The first lumen delivers the fluid downstream of the sensor to prevent any interference between the fluid delivery and the sensor readings. In other versions, the central line catheter can have additional lumens for additional purposes. In addition, the central line catheter can further include a flush sleeve to remove debris around the sensor. |
| US07833155B2 |
Endoscopic passage confluent structure
An endoscopic flow-passage confluent structure that connects a gas-feed tube and a liquid-feed tube provided in an endoscope to a confluent tube communicating with an ejection nozzle arranged at a tip of an insertion portion of the endoscope and for ejecting a cleaning fluid toward a viewing window of the endoscope, the structure comprising: (i) a passage connection member having one end opened with two upstream-passage receiving bores in which the gas-feed and liquid-feed tubes are respectively inserted and fixed, other end opened with one downstream-passage receiving bore, and an intermediate region that communicates the upstream-passage receiving bores with downstream-passage receiving bore and comprises a passage confluent space having a diameter increasing in a taper-form in a direction of from the downstream-passage receiving bore toward the upstream-passage receiving bores; and (ii) a coupler pipe having one end connected to the downstream-passage receiving bore and other end connected with a base of the confluent tube. |
| US07833154B2 |
Autoclave sterilization-compatible endoscope
An endoscope is provided with a bending tube including sequentially connected plural bending pieces constituting a bending section which is provided in a slim and elongated insertion portion and which is brought into a bending operation by remote control, a distal end section which is provided in the front end side of this bending tube and which constitutes the front end side of the insertion portion, a flexible tube section which is provided in the base end side of the bending tube and which constitutes the rear end side of the insertion portion, and a covering member which is disposed to cover the bending tube and which has elasticity in order that both end portions of the covering member are fixed to the distal end section or the flexible tube section by being fastened radially inward, wherein the relationship represented by 0.3D |
| US07833147B2 |
Process for enriching a population of sperm cells
Processes for selectively enriching a population of viable sperm cells with respect to a characteristic without physically sorting the cells are disclosed. The cells contained in such an enriched population benefit from the advantage of not being subjected to a sorting process. Processes of inseminating a female mammal and processes of forming a sperm dispersion utilizing the processes of selectively enriching a population of viable sperm cells are also disclosed. |
| US07833145B2 |
Exercise pedal
An exercise pedal includes a plate member including a receiving cavity fixed on a bottom surface thereof, with the receiving cavity including a plurality of partitions to space a number of recesses. A seat formed in a semicircle shape is retained to the recesses to be horizontal or to be vertical either upside down or right side up according to the demands of the user, such that the plate member and two seats are capable of being used solely or together to vary exercise motions. Furthermore, the seats are placed in the first recesses of the plate member to reduce storing size and to be portable easily. |
| US07833139B1 |
Detachable pulley assembly
A pulley assembly for removably fastening an arm cord to an exercise apparatus is disclosed. The pulley assembly includes a yoke having a central portion and a pair of parallel leg portions, the central portion having a bore therethrough, a pulley wheel rotatably supported between the yoke leg portions by an axle, and an elongated stem having an axially extending shaft portion protruding through the bore. The shaft portion has distal end portion having an L shaped slot formed therethrough. The L shaped slot forms a hook shaped end to the shaft portion. A tapered coil spring over the shaft portion of the stem, has a small end and a large diameter around the shaft portion of the stem. The spring biases the hooked end away from an eyebolt on the exercise apparatus to keep the pulley assembly engaged with the eye bolt and hence fastened to the exercise apparatus. |
| US07833134B2 |
Exercise device
An exercise device upon which a user generally standing upright supported by foot platforms suspended from a frame via linkages in which the linkage lengths and pivot points correspond generally to the users upper and lower legs and hip and knee joints. This device not only allows natural free and spontaneous leg movement, able to simulate such exercises as walking, jogging, running, stepping, skiing or gliding, bicycling, climbing, reverse action and various isolated leg exercises, where the exercises can be performed at random generally without the need to reconfigure the device. This device preferably includes an isolation system capable of simulating natural forces throughout the entire range of movement in the horizontal and/or vertical plane. A safety/suspension system can be provided, alone or in combination with the isolation system, to resist sudden foot movement in the same direction, yet allows a slow and controlled tilting of the linkages whereby the user may simulate uphill and downhill travel. |
| US07833133B2 |
End of travel stop for an exercise device
An exercise apparatus for a user. The exercise apparatus includes a frame, a crank system coupled to the frame, a pivotal linkage pendulum system, a foot member and a foot member end of travel apparatus. The crank system includes one or more crank members. The pivotal linkage pendulum system comprises at least a first link member. The first link member is coupled to the crank system through at least a first pivot point. The first pivot point of the first link member is configured to move in a path during use. The foot member is coupled to the at least one first link member. The foot member end of travel apparatus provides a two-stage stiffness profile to the foot member indicating the end of travel to the user. |
| US07833132B2 |
Trampoline with inflated base
The trampoline with inflated base includes a generally toroidal shaped inflatable tube having an open center area. A mesh rebound member extends over the open center area and is secured around its entire periphery to the tube on the upper surface of the tube member. The tube includes a singular air duct or a plurality of air ducts extending radially which allow communication of air between the space interior to the tube and the space exterior to the tube. |
| US07833131B2 |
Rebounder exercise system
An exerciser includes a small trampoline, or rebounder (12), and a hand support (16) with handles (24, 26) that a person can grasp while jumping and rebounding to stabilize himself or herself, which is suitable for use in a commercial or public workout facility where there are likely to be many rebounders dedicated to such rebound exercising. The hand support lies immediately forward of the front end (46) of a rebounder that rests on a floor. The hand support includes a frame (40) that rests on the floor immediately forward of the rebounder front end and that has a top bar (44) that lies at least one meter above the rebounder mat (18). The top bar pivotally supports a handle device (22) that includes the handles (24, 26) at its lower end that can be grasped by a person who is jumping on the rebounder. The frame can be constructed with a plurality of top bars, all of the same length and forming the sides of a polygon, and a rebounder lies with its front end immediately rearward of each of a plurality of the top bars. |
| US07833130B1 |
Simulated edged weapon or toy with element actuated indicating device
A simulated sharp edged weapon or toy comprising a housing, an element mounted in and extending from said housing arranged such that said element has movement in relation to said housing in response to force upon said element, an electrical circuit mounted in said housing for providing an indication upon activation having a movement sensor actuator mounted in cooperation with said element to turn on at least one indicating device providing indication of movement of said element. |
| US07833129B2 |
Training apparatus
Training apparatus for physical exercise, preventive exercise and rehabilitation of injuries and increased balance, the apparatus designed as a stationary bicycle, similar to ergometer bikes or spinning bikes. The apparatus consist of a first lower stable frame configured to be supported on a floor and a second upper frame tiltable relative to the lower frame. The upper frame has an adjustable tilt movement relative the lower frame crosswise the flywheel's revolving motion. A steering gear is guided through the upper frame where a prolonged part of the steering gear is in contact with the floor, the part having a wheel suspension like design, consisting of barlinks, dampers, springs and wheels. Stabilizing of the upper frame is done by movement of the steering gear. |
| US07833127B2 |
Method for adjusting the clutch torque of a motor vehicle depending upon the driving resistance
A method for controlling or regulating a clutch torque of a startup clutch of a motor vehicle, which first of all reliably prevents an unintentional rolling of the motor vehicle down a gradient and second enables a comfortable maneuvering mode, which requires no separate actuation of an operating element for activating a maneuvering mode, and also enables a precisely dosed speed definition during maneuvering on gradients, wherein the adjusted speed is substantially independent from the gradient of the ground and the motor vehicle load. A startup and maneuvering control device is provided according to the invention, which reads in driving resistance data, determines therefrom a driving resistance value, and determines a base value of the clutch torque of the automated startup clutch in dependence thereof, which is adjusted in dependence upon the accelerator pedal. |
| US07833125B2 |
Hybrid powertrain and a method for controlling a hybrid powertrain
A hybrid powertrain includes a combustion engine operable to output rotational power thereat, an electric machine arrangement operable to output rotational power thereat, a gearbox arrangement for receiving rotational power from at least one of the combustion engine and the electric machine arrangement and being operable to couple motive power to a load coupled to the gearbox arrangement. The gearbox arrangement is operable to provide a plurality of gearing ratios. The electric machine arrangement is employable to extend a rotation rate range provided in a given gearing ratio: at higher rotation rates prior to a gear change from said given gearing ratio to a gearing ratio subsequent thereto; or at both lower rotation rates when accelerating from a standstill or from a preceding gear, and at higher rotation rates prior to a gear change from said given gearing ratio to a gearing ratio subsequent thereto. |
| US07833123B2 |
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission includes a first planetary gear set; a second planetary gear set; a third planetary gear set; and at least five friction elements. The at least five friction elements includes a first clutch adapted to selectively connect a first carrier with a second carrier; a first brake adapted to selectively stop a rotation of the second carrier; a second brake adapted to selectively stop a rotation of a rotating member having a first sun gear, a second ring gear, and a third carrier; a third brake adapted to selectively stop a rotation of a third sun gear; and a second clutch adapted to selectively connect the first carrier with a second sun gear. Each of at least seven forward speed-ratios and one reverse speed-ratio is achieved by engaging two friction elements selected from the first and second clutches and the first to third brakes. |
| US07833116B2 |
Lacrosse head having a skeletal member
A lacrosse head having a skeletal member and an outer skin that encapsulates the skeletal member. In an embodiment of the invention, the outer skin is made of a material that is more energy absorbing than the material of the skeletal member. Corresponding methods for making the lacrosse head are also disclosed. |
| US07833115B2 |
Wrist toy
A toy with a springable cord and an object at the other end of the cord, which object can be a ball of many kinds, or a device covering a ball. The ball may include electronics therein that are actuated when the ball is hit against a surface. |
| US07833113B2 |
Multi-layer golf ball
Multi-layer golf balls having a relatively hard outer core surrounding a relatively soft, low compression inner core are provided. The inner core generally has a compression of less than 50 and the inner core and outer core generally have a combined dual core compression of 50 or greater. The outer core generally has a Shore C hardness of 80 or greater. A cover, which can be a single-, dual-, or multi-layer cover, is provided to surround the outer core. A moisture barrier layer is optionally provided between the outer core and the cover. The moisture vapor transmission rate of the moisture barrier layer is preferably less than the moisture vapor transmission rate of the cover. |
| US07833109B2 |
Slow motion training for optimal point of impact
A device and method is disclosed for training a person in slow motion to hit a ball at the sweet spot on a sports implement. The device includes a housing and a plate. The housing preferably comprises a tube; a rod slidably fitting within the tube; a stop affixed to the end of the rod; a compression spring surrounding the rod; and a ball on the rod at the end opposite the stop such that the end of the rod protrudes from the ball. The plate is affixed to the sports implement at its sweet spot and has a center hole of sufficient size to contain the end of the rod protruding from the ball. In the preferred method, a player swings the sports implement in slow motion towards the ball on the housing engaging the plate at the center hole over the protruding rod. |
| US07833108B2 |
Training head for golf training putter, and method of training
The invention concerns a training head (20) for a golf training putter (14) and a method of using this training putter (14) to improve ones putting skill for side-swing type putting motion. The training head (20) may include two opposed hitting faces (28, 30), with each hitting face (28, 30) defining a portion of a cylinder about a vertical axis. This cylindrical surface is oriented so the face (28, 30) will strike a golf ball (24) perpendicular to the direction one desires the ball (24) to travel if hit at the central location of this surface (28, 30), but will deflect the ball (24) in a different direction if a location other than the central location of the face (28, 30) strikes the ball (24). This training putter (14) may have symmetrical hitting faces (28, 30) so that left-handed and right-handed golfers can use it. |
| US07833107B1 |
Apparatus to aid in diving techniques into a body of water
An apparatus to aid in diving techniques, comprising a base assembly having first and second frame arms and first and second transversal supports. The first and second frame arms are perpendicularly disposed to the first and second transversal supports. The first transversal support comprises a first L-bracket and the second transversal support comprises a second L-bracket. A slide assembly comprises first and second lateral sides and first and second ends. The slide assembly is hingedly mounted onto the base assembly by at least one hinge. Elevation means elevate the first end to place the slide assembly from an approximately horizontal position to an angled position. |
| US07833106B2 |
Dynamic decorative painting
The invention is directed toward an electro-mechanical simulated aquarium. It includes a novel combination of a planetary gear train driving two endless loops of transparent material in counter-rotating directions. Depictions of marine life are applied to the loops and the entire arrangement is housed in an aquarium-like enclosure in order to maximize its realism. |
| US07833104B2 |
Sealing ring for a universal joint bush
A universal joint bush for a universal joint of a universal joint shaft. In order to seal an annular gap, which is produced between the journal and the universal joint bush, a sealing ring is provided which encloses radially outwardly directed sealing lips. During assembly of the universal joint bush on the journal, the sealing lips, which are connected directly or indirectly to a radially inwardly directed rim of the universal joint bush, make a venting means possible, through which the air which is enclosed in the inner space of the universal joint bush can escape. |
| US07833102B2 |
Gaming machine with consolidated peripherals
Disclosed are gaming machines, including related methods, apparatus, and systems, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for providing a game of chance. Peripheral devices are consolidated in a first region of the gaming machine, behind a first door of the machine. The peripheral devices include a printer having a ticket stack and a bill acceptor having a cashbox. The printer is configured to print and dispense tickets from the ticket stack. The bill acceptor is configured to receive cash and store the cash in the cashbox. The ticket stack and the bill acceptor each have an access portion situated in the first region for access when the first door is open. A second door is mounted to the cabinet in a second region of the cabinet. The second door encloses a processor coupled to output game data to a display and control play of the game of chance. |
| US07833099B2 |
Game apparatus and recording medium recording game program for displaying a motion matching a player's intention when moving an input device
Operation information which is output, depending on a motion of an input device is successively obtained, and based on the operation information, a direction and movement velocity of the input device is determined. Next, it is determined whether or not the movement velocity is larger than or equal to a first threshold value. When the movement velocity is larger than or equal to the first threshold value, a path along which an object is moved in a virtual world is determined based on predetermined information about the movement path. When the movement velocity is smaller than the first threshold value, a path in which the object is moved in the virtual world is determined based on the determined movement velocity. Based on the determined movement path, it is displayed how the object is moved through positions in the virtual world. |
| US07833098B2 |
Input data processing program and input data processing apparatus
An information processing apparatus stores a series of input positions which are continuously detected by an input device in a memory thereof in order of the detection. An input position (B1) initially stored in the memory is stored as a reference point position in the memory. When each of the series of input positions is stored in the memory, an operation vector (vector v′1) connecting between an input position having been most recently stored in the memory and the reference point position in the memory is calculated. The information processing apparatus performs a predetermined processing using a magnitude and a direction of the operation vector. The reference point position stored in the memory is updated to a position obtained when the reference point position is moved toward a predetermined target position (point A) when each of the series of input positions is stored in the memory. |
| US07833097B1 |
Game pad controller and system for portable communication device
A game pad controller for connection to a portable phone has an outer casing and a game control unit within the casing. The front of the casing has a seat for locating the portable phone and at least one keypad adjacent the seat for user engagement to control a game. The seat has a channel for slidably receiving an adapter, which is either attached to the rear face of the phone or to a holder for the phone. A releasable latching mechanism at the inner end of the channel releasably secures the adapter in the channel. The adapter may be a dimpled hub device. The arrangement allows the game pad controller to be used with any type of portable phone. |
| US07833096B2 |
Button encounter system
A video game system and method is described in which map scenes and battle scenes are used. A player character may move through the map scene, and upon encountering enemies to battle, an encounter area may be generated and displayed to show the user which enemies will be included in the subsequent battle scene, and which enemies will not be initially included in the battle scene. |
| US07833095B2 |
Gaming device having an adjacent selection bonus scheme
A gaming device having a bonus game with an adjacent selection feature. In one embodiment of the present invention, the gaming device provides a plurality of adjacent player selectable selections. An award is associated with each player selectable selection. The award associated with each selectable selection is not initially displayed or revealed to the player. The player selectable selections are arranged or grouped into a plurality of associated or related selection sets. In one embodiment, each selection set has a different number of player selectable selections. In one embodiment, the related plurality of selection sets are arranged adjacent to each other to enable each player selectable selection in one set to be adjacent to at least one player selectable selection from another selection set. The player's pick in each selection set limits the available selections in the subsequent selection sets. |
| US07833092B2 |
Method and system for compensating for player choice in a game of chance
Disclosed are methods and apparatus, including computer program products, implementing and using techniques for compensating for a player choice in a game of chance. A plurality of outcomes is defined. A sequence of positions corresponding to the plurality of outcomes is provided, including a reference position. A plurality of pointers is situated at positions in the sequence. Each pointer has an offset value with respect to the reference position along the sequence of positions. Responsive to selection of one of the pointers, the reference position is moved according to the offset value associated with the selected one pointer, so that the selected one pointer points at the reference position. A number is received. The received number determines one of the plurality of outcomes according to a predefined probability associated with the reference position. The determined one outcome is output at the reference position. |
| US07833088B1 |
Construction method and tool supporting said method
A method for improving the appearance of a building, and a tool to support the method, especially where the tool uses a commercially available cutting blade used in a manner other than its intended use. |
| US07833083B2 |
Bra and/or bra pad for providing the appearance of symmetry to asymmetrical breasts
A breast covering garment apparatus having a first breast cup and a second breast cup. The first and second breast cups may have (i) an inner shell having a concave shape selected from a number of available cup sizes and (ii) an outer shell having a convex shape selected from a number of available cup sizes. The inner shell of the first breast cup and the inner shell of the second breast cup may be different cup sizes. The outer shell of the first breast cup and the outer shell of the second breast cup may be the same cup size. |
| US07833072B2 |
Jet propelled surfboard
A jet flow propelled surfboard assembly comprises a longitudinally forwardly elongated structure including a flotation board to support a surfer and two positive displacement pumps which pistons can be manually operated in seesaw-like actions by feet of the surfer to generate jet flows to propel the surfboard assembly. |
| US07833069B2 |
Battery connector with spacing structure limiting displacement of pressed contacts of battery connector
A battery connector (100) is generally assembled in a corner of a case and includes contacts (2) of the battery connector (100) each have a mating portion (21) defining a rib in the center of the mating portion (21). An insulative housing (1) defining a plurality of slots (111) receiving the contacts (2) therein has recesses (112) in the slots (111). When the contacts (2) is pressed by a battery, the rib (211) is plunged into the recess (112). |
| US07833067B1 |
Audio-video signal plug
An audio-video signal plug includes a shaft assembly comprising a shaft body, a shaft carried by the shaft body and a quick disconnect blade connector carried by the shaft body and disposed in electrical communication with the shaft. |
| US07833063B2 |
Card connector
A card connector (10) may receive first and second cards includes a housing (11) having an insertion opening for receiving cards (51a and 51b), a plurality of first connection terminals (15a) disposed in the housing and configured to engage pads of the first card (51a) and a plurality of second connection terminals (15b) disposed in said housing and configured to engage pads of the second card (51b). A guide member (21) is movably attached to the housing (11) at a position between the second connection terminals (15b) and the insertion opening and is adapted to engage an inserted card and direct the card to one of a first path and a second path to properly position the first and second cards upon insertion into the card connector. |
| US07833062B2 |
Phone jack connector
A connector includes an insulating housing and at least one inserting pin. The insulating housing includes at least one groove and at least one plug receiving hole. The inserting pin penetrates through the groove, and is secured by a sidewall of the groove. The inserting pin includes a resilient leg for being electrically connected to a plug received in the insulating housing. |
| US07833054B2 |
Connector
An insulative housing 21 holding a conductive contact 11 is provided with a receiving portion 26 for receiving an electric wire 51. The contact is provided with a connecting portion 13 disposed in the receiving portion. When the electric wire is received in the receiving portion, the electric wire is electrically connected to the connecting portion of the contact. |
| US07833052B2 |
Connector for coaxial cable
A connector for a coaxial cable has a connector body and a securing ring. The connector body includes a tubular insertion section that is insertable between an insulation member around a core conductor of the coaxial cable and a woven conductor around the insulation member, a flange section that is provided around the insertion section and with which both the woven conductor of the coaxial cable and a cover member around the woven conductor come into contact when the insertion section is inserted in the coaxial cable to position the insertion section, and an annular fitting section that is provided at the insertion section, on the opposite side of the coaxial cable, and into which an object to be connected is insertable. The securing ring is used to pressure-bond and fix the coaxial cable to the insertion section from the periphery of the coaxial cable after the insertion section of the connector body is inserted in the coaxial cable. The connector has a fixation section for fixing the connector body and the securing ring together. |
| US07833051B2 |
Integrated connecting port module and electronic device equipped with the same
An integrated connecting port module is suitable for an adapter having one terminal which is a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) adapting port and the other terminal which is a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) adapting port. The integrated connecting port module includes a case, an HDMI port and at least one expansion port. The case has a width not smaller than that of the DVI adapting port. The HDMI port and the expansion port are installed on the case and are stacked. An electronic device including the integrated connecting port module is also disclosed. |
| US07833048B2 |
Electrical connector assembly with a FFC module
An electrical connector assembly comprises an insulative housing defining a receiving cavity extending inwardly from a mating face thereof and a plurality of terminal receiving passages disposed in the insulative housing and in communication with the receiving cavity. A plurality of terminals are received into the corresponding terminal receiving passages. A FFC module defines a pair of FFCs with a pair of first mating portions at one end thereof and an insulative insert having a lower half section disposed between the pair of first mating portions. The FFC module has an inserting portion received into the receiving cavity of the insulative housing. |
| US07833045B2 |
Insulation displacement connector (IDC)
An electrical insulation displacement connector includes a body having at least one channel with an open top side configured for receipt of an insulated conductive core wire therein. A contact element is fixed in the body with a first insulation displacement end defined by opposed blades oriented across the channel, and a second end extending from a bottom surface of the body and configured for electrical contact with a PCB. The body includes retaining structure extending into the channel at a location relative to a depth of the blades within the channel such that the insulation portion of a wire inserted into the channel and pressed down into the first end of the contact element is pushed below the retaining structure, thereby preventing the wire from being inadvertently pulled out from the first end of the contact. |
| US07833041B2 |
Connector with a flexible printed circuit board
A connector has a base having an opening to be inserted with a tip portion of a flexible printed circuit board at a front surface, and having a plurality of insertion holes passing from the front surface to a rear surface juxtaposed at a predetermined pitch, a connection terminal arranged in a projecting manner with a substantially T-shaped operating piece having at one end a movable contacting point that comes into pressure contact with joints juxtaposed at the tip portion of the flexible printed circuit board, the connection terminal having one end that becomes a fixed contacting point inserted to the insertion hole from the rear surface side, and an operating lever in which a cam portion is fitted into a turning recessed portion arranged at an upper side of the connection terminal to act as a turning supporting point, the cam portion driving an operation receiving portion positioned at the other end of the operating piece. A position regulation contacting portion arranged at a lower surface of the operating lever locks to a slip-out preventing projection arranged in a projecting manner at an upper side of the connection terminal to prevent slip-out when the operating lever is turned and a locking operation is completed. |
| US07833040B2 |
Card socket assembly
A card socket assembly includes a body member defining a receiving cavity and a cover member. The cover member includes an elastic portion disposed at a first end thereof and abutting against the body member, and a latching portion disposed at a second end thereof opposite to the first end. The first end of the cover member is rotatably mounted to the body member. The latching portion is configured for being detachably latched to the body member. The cover member is configured for covering the receiving cavity and being capable of sliding against the elastic portion to release the latching portion from the body member. |
| US07833039B2 |
Electrical connector and conducting terminal used therein
The present invention provides an electrical connector and a conducting terminal thereof. Particularly, the present invention provides a conducting terminal having enhanced structural strength in virtue of a lumbar portion and a supporting means. The conducting terminal includes a longitudinal axis and a proximal end, a lumbar portion and a distal end extended along the longitudinal axis, respectively. The proximal end is bent in a waved form so as to provide an elastically deforming capability. A free end is provided with an engaging surface. The distal end is in a barrel shape. A prop surface is provided near the lumbar portion. The supporting means is protruded from the lumbar portion toward the prop surface. The engaging surface and the lumbar portion have respective normal lines thereof intersecting the longitudinal axis. |
| US07833037B2 |
Cordset assembly
An extension cordset assembly includes a receptacle and a sealing gasket. The receptacle includes a receptacle main body, a receptacle connecting interface and first and second spade mating holes extending into the receptacle main body from the receptacle connecting interface. The receptacle is configured to mate with a plug having a standard spade configuration. The sealing gasket is positioned on the receptacle connecting interface and includes first and second spade openings aligned with the first and second spade mating holes, respectively. The sealing gasket is configured to provide a water-resistant seal between the receptacle and the plug. |
| US07833035B2 |
Electrical connector
An electrical connector for connecting an FPC includes an insulating housing having a receiving space, a plurality of contacts received in the insulating housing and an actuator retained on two ends of said insulating housing. Each contact includes a pivot arm engaging with said actuator and frontwardly extending into said receiving space. Said pivot arm defines a first engaging notch and a protrusion on a bottom edge thereof. The actuator has a rotatable cam portion rotatablely engaged with said first engaging notch. Said protrusion is formed on a frontal tip end of said pivot arm and extends much lower than said rotatable cam portion in a vertical direction, which prevents the FPC from contacting with said rotatable portion firstly during the process of the insertion. |
| US07833026B1 |
Electrical connector system
An electrical connector assembly includes a circuit board having vias each extending at least partially through the circuit board along parallel via axes and an electrical connector configured to be mounted on the circuit board. The electrical connector includes a plurality of variable depth signal terminals configured to extend different depths into respective vias of the circuit board. The signal terminals each have a terminal axis, and the signal terminals are arranged in pairs carrying differential pair signals. The signal terminals of each pair extend to the same depth in the respective vias of the circuit board. The terminal axes of the signal terminals of each pair are offset with respect to the corresponding via axes along a majority of the signal terminals within the vias. |
| US07833020B1 |
Electrical connector with low profile terminal
An electrical connector 100 adapted for electrically connecting an IC package, comprises a base 1 and a plurality of terminals 2 received in the base 1. The base has a main body 10 defining a space for receiving the IC package and a plurality of passageways 101 extending vertically through two opposed sides of the main body 10. The terminal 2 comprises an insulated elastomer 21 acting as a resilient portion and a plurality of electrical elements 22 assembled on the insulated elastomer 21 acting as conductive portions to provide a plurality of electrical connecting paths for connecting the IC package. |
| US07833017B2 |
Self adjusting instrument
The invention is an instrument for cleaning and/or shaping and/or widening a channel that exists in or through a solid object. The design of the instrument the superelastic and shape memory properties of the material from which it is made, allow the inner volume enclosed by the instrument, its outer contour, or both to change as a result of the forces exerted upon it while working, thereby shaping the instrument to the three-dimensional contour of the channel. A preferred embodiment of the instrument is an endodontic file for use in the cleaning, shaping, and widening stages of a root canal procedure. |
| US07833016B2 |
Root canal filling materials and methods
In various embodiments of a method for filling root canal spaces, the root canal spaces are cleaned and irrigated, for example, by any suitable endodontic procedure, and the irrigating liquid is not removed from the canal spaces prior to filling. In some embodiments, a hydrophobic filler material is introduced into the root canal spaces while they are filled with liquid. As the canal spaces are filled, the hydrophobic filler material displaces the liquid and drives it out of the canal spaces, towards the crown of the tooth, where it can be removed. The hydrophobic filler material may comprise magnetically responsive particles having a hydrophobic surface coating that are compacted into the root canal spaces by application of a magnetic force field. In other embodiments, hydrophilic filler material in a flowable phase is introduced into the canal spaces where it partly displaces and partly absorbs the irrigating liquid before solidifying. |
| US07833014B2 |
Dental device and method of use
A prophy device incorporating a shaft and one or more corrugated members which eliminate the need for plastic gears of the prior art is disclosed. The corrugated members effectively transfer rotational energy from a shaft to an applicator. In another version, a flexible paste chamber contains polish within a housing of the device. A difference between a rotational speed at a front of the paste chamber and rear of the paste chamber causes the flexible chamber to contract on itself thereby automatically forcing polish from the chamber and into a polish applicator. A user dictates the amount of polish dispensed by controlling the rotational speed at the front of the paste chamber by pressing the polish applicator against the teeth of a patient. As the speed differential increases, the amount of polish dispensed increases as well. |
| US07833013B2 |
Device, method and kit for determining orthodontic dimensions
A device, method and kit for determining suitable orthodontic/dental dimensions for an individual's teeth as they relate to facial landmarks. The orthodontic dimensions are determined according to the Golden Proportion. The measuring device can be a pair of modified eyeglasses having a gauge thereon in the form of a transparent ruler body with a center marking line, or the measuring device can be a measuring grid having a center marking line and peripheral marking lines superimposed over a photograph of an individual's face. Peripheral marking lines are spaced at standard distances from the right and left of the center marking line. An orthodontist trained to use the invention can use the orthodontic dimensions for an individual in a treatment plan to alter the individual's teeth, to modify their function, or to improve their cosmetic appearance. The device can also be part of a kit for determining a suitable size and position for an individual's teeth as they relate to facial landmarks. |
| US07833007B2 |
Hot runner having a heat shrinkable tube covering
A hot runner (10) is provided including a canal (11) and a heat-shrinkable tube (12) covering on the canal (11). The heat-shrinkable tube (12) can shrink along the canal (12)'s contour when heated. The present invention further provides a mold (20) using the hot runner. |
| US07833006B2 |
Single-sided shuttle-type blow molding apparatus
A single-sided shuttle-type blow molding apparatus having an extruder for substantially continuously extruding a thermoplastic material in tubular form at a moldable temperature downwardly along a vertical axis. The apparatus includes a mold having a set of mold parts adapted to open and close relative to each other to define, when closed, a mold cavity. A shuttle having the mold mounted thereon is arranged to move along a closed path from a first position wherein the mold engages, when open, a finite length of the thermoplastic tube, to a second position away from the first position. The apparatus further includes a blow head adapted to blow the finite length of the thermoplastic tube to form the container as the mold moves from the first position to the second position of the closed path. The apparatus includes no more than one mold. A method is also described. |
| US07833005B2 |
Closed-loop system and a method for separating materials of differing melting points
A closed loop system for separating materials of differing melting points includes an ultrasonic bath including a solution configured to supply thermal energy and cavitation to the materials of differing melting points, a solution reservoir configured to adjust levels of the solution in the ultrasonic bath, and a filter configured to remove particles of one of the materials of differing melting points from the solution. |
| US07833002B2 |
Lift mechanism for tooling that acts on a web in a packaging machine
A packaging apparatus has a lift mechanism to lower and raise a tool, such as a formation box that functions to form cavities in a web of flexible material. The lift mechanism has a series of arms, supported by belt driven carriages, which move in tandem to raise and lower the formation box. The arms are arranged into two sets such that when the arms within each set are moved closer to one another, the formation box is raised, and when the arms within each set are moved away from one another, the formation box is lowered. The common driving of all arms by a belt allows the indexing of the formation box to be well controlled. |
| US07833000B2 |
Optical modeling apparatus
There is provided an optical modeling apparatus that forms a model of a desired shape by sequentially forming hardened layers by irradiating a light-curable resin with light. The apparatus includes a first light source that emits a light beam for plotting on the resin, a scanning device that scans the light beam from the first light source over the resin, a second light source that emits light that irradiates one fixed region of the resin at a time, and a spatial light modulator that spatially modulates the light from the second light source to blanket-expose a specified region of the resin. The light beam from the scanning device and the light from the spatial light modulator form each hardened layer. |
| US07832996B2 |
Hydrostatic rotary cylinder engine
The invention relates to a hydrostatic, slow-speed rotary cylinder engine comprising a power part (1) which acts as an output, said power part comprising a central, stationary stator (4), a rotary cylinder (6) which is used as a rotor and a shaft (2) which is mounted in a central manner on both sides of the roller bearings (10, 11) which are arranged directly adjacent to the power part (1). Supply and discharge of tooth chambers comprising the working fluid is controlled by means of a disk-shaped rotational valve (3) which is mounted in a continuously centered manner in relation to the shaft (2) and the stator (4). A toothed wheel drive is arranged between a shaft external toothing (14) and an internal toothing (17) of a stationary internal toothed ring (28; 92) as a synchronous drive for the rotational valve (3). The toothed wheel drive is subsequently arranged in the leakage oil region of the engine and is formed by a planetary gear (80) or, preferably, by an eccentric gear (30). |
| US07832994B2 |
Hermetic-type compressor
A hermetic-type compressor according to the present invention has a viscous pump part by combining a spiral groove formed on the outer periphery of a main shaft with the inner periphery of a main shaft bearing, and at least one sliding section being in a sliding engagement with the main shaft bearing and at least one non-contact sliding-section having a predetermined gap with the main shaft bearing are formed on the face at the outer periphery of the main shaft opposing to the main shaft bearing where the lower end of the groove is located at the non-contact sliding-section. |
| US07832993B2 |
Internal combustion engine having a compressor and a pressure damper
An internal combustion engine includes a cylinder crankcase, a mechanically driven compressor for compressing charge air, and a compressor mounting for the compressor. The compressor mounting is provided at the cylinder crankcase and a pressure damper is integrated into the compressor mounting. |
| US07832988B2 |
Turbine blade
A turbine blade with an aerodynamically profiled blade leaf which is produced from two assembled shell elements is provided. The shell elements forming the suction-side and the pressure-side blade leaf wall have been assembled by a high-temperature and high-pressure bonding process. In the region of the blade leaf tip, a cramp is provided which hooks the two blade walls together with one another with a form fit. |
| US07832987B2 |
Methods of handling a wind turbine blade and system therefor
A method of handling a wind turbine blade during storage, transport or mounting of the blade is presented. The method comprises the steps of: establishing at least one mounting hole penetrating the surface of the blade, mounting one or more handling means including mounting means in said at least one hole, and handling the wind turbine by at least said handling means on the wind turbine blade. A handling system and handling means for handling a wind turbine blade as well as a wind turbine blade and use hereof are also disclosed. |
| US07832979B2 |
Vortex hydraulic turbine
An apparatus for generating electric power from water currents comprises a housing having at least one pair of channel, at least one pair of turbine assemblies and at least one pair of generator assemblies. Each channel of the pair has an axial intake, an axial discharge opening and a side intake. Each side intake extends along a length of the channel and faces in an upstream direction to receive a side inflow of water and directs the side inflow up against an interior surface of the channel to create a vortical flow structure having a low pressure core. The vortical flow structures are produced downstream of the turbine assemblies to effect an increase in a pressure drop across each of the turbine assemblies. The apparatus also has partition extending between the channels near said axial intakes. |
| US07832976B2 |
Method and apparatus for the automatic feeding of metal section bars
The method for the automatic feeding of metal section bars provides for seizing a group of metal section bars (2) from a store (3) by means of gripping tools (11) and for transferring the said group of metal section bars (2) in a lifted position. The metal section bars (2) are arranged on a transfer device (20) suited to transfer the metal section bars (2) on receiving means (30). In a suitable phase relationship, the counting of the metal section bars (2) transferred on the said receiving means (30) is carried out. Such operating cycle is repeated until a prefixed number of metal section bars (2) is reached. The whole of the metal section bars (2) is disentangled through the progressive sliding of the receiving means (30) along the longitudinal axis of the metal section bars (2). |
| US07832970B2 |
Friction stir nut and method of joining therewith
A friction stir nut is disclosed. The friction stir nut includes a body, a cap, and an anti-rotation feature. The body has an elongated cylindrical shank extending between a first end and a second end, the cap being disposed at the second end, and the anti-rotation feature being disposed at the cap and/or an outer surface of the body. The body and cap have a blind axial hole extending from the first end to the second end, the first end being blind and the second end being open. The outer surface of the first end has a flat surface oriented substantially perpendicular to the axis of the shank, and the body has a cylindrical wall thickness suitable for receiving internal threads. In response to a mandrel tool friction stir welding the friction stir nut to a workpiece and then being extracted, uniform internal threads result at the body. The anti-rotation feature bonds to the workpiece by metallurgical bonding and/or mechanical bonding. |
| US07832969B2 |
Load restraining apparatus, system and method
Load restraining apparatuses, systems and methods are provided. In general, in the several embodiments, a load restraining apparatus can include a base, a load restraining component, and anchor. In other embodiments, a load restraining apparatus can include one or more strap blocks, each having a base block, top plate, and outer lip, the base blocks having through slots through which a strap can be threaded and wrapped upon itself with a ratchet. In other embodiments, a load restraining apparatus can include a mounting plate having orthogonally arranged ratchets each connected to a strap for wrapping around or along a load, one strap connected to a strap coupler having additional straps connected to the coupler. |
| US07832963B2 |
Cutter support and cutter head
The invention relates to a cutter support for fixing in a cutter head, comprising a shaft-like bar and a head with integrated cutters with minor cutters formed from a cutting surface and a free surface. According to the invention, a chamfer adjacent to the minor cutter is arranged on the free surface with a chamfer width decreasing outwardly to 0. |
| US07832960B2 |
All-conditions tunnel boring machine
A tunnel boring machine is provided comprising a cutter head, a main beam, a first, second, and third shield; and a ground conditioning work zone within the first shield, a gripper assembly, a segment erector arm for lining the tunnel, and at least one propulsion mechanism. The ground conditioning work zone includes at least one probing device for probing the terrain ahead of the cutter head. The first shield is configured to be retracted relative to the second shield to provide access for the ground conditioning work zone to apply at least one ground support device. The at least one propulsion mechanism moves the cutter head, the first and the second shield forward while the third shield and the gripper assembly remain stationary. The ground support devices can include filling a hole with a ground conditioning agent; and placing a bolt, ring beam, mesh, or shotcrete in/on the tunnel wall. |
| US07832951B2 |
Lens unit and digital camera
A digital still camera includes a camera main unit and a lens unit or lens assembly. The camera main unit has an image processor for image processing of an image being formed by image pickup. A frame memory stores the image during image processing. The lens unit is secured to the camera main unit removably, and has an image sensor for forming the image by detecting object light passed through a photographing lens. A subsidiary image memory has a storage capacity according to a pixel number of the image sensor, for storing the image in a temporary manner in addition to the frame memory, to shorten image processing time. In one embodiment, at least one of the frame memory and the subsidiary image memory is caused to store luminance component data and chrominance component data of the image obtained according to an image signal thereof. |
| US07832950B2 |
Iris diaphragm mechanism
A fixed aperture and a fixed shaft are formed in a fixed member. A drive shaft is formed in a driving member. A fixed shaft hole and a drive shaft hole are formed in a plurality of diaphragm blades, and the plurality of blades is connected to the fixed shaft and the drive shaft. An aperture diameter of a variable aperture AP which is an aperture zone formed by the plurality of diaphragm blades is controlled by rotating relatively the driving member with respect to the fixed member. Here, the diaphragm blades are disposed in a plurality of layers, and a part of) the diaphragm blades belonging to an adjacent layer are disposed to be overlapping with respect to an optical axis direction. |
| US07832949B2 |
Optical element parallax scanning device
An optical element scanning device (10) includes a base plate (200) and one or more linear actuators (210, 220) operably connected to the base plate. An armature (110) may be pivotably connected to the one or more linear actuators, and an optical element (100) may be operably connected to the armature. |
| US07832948B1 |
Impulse actuated MEMS devices
An impulse actuated mechanism for, e.g., a digital camera shutter, includes a shutter blade disposed at a first end of a flexure having an opposite second end fixed so as to constrain the blade to move along a planar, relatively long, first trajectory between opposite initial and final blade positions, and a short-throw, high force blade actuator that includes a stator and a stage supported for movement relative to the stator and along a second trajectory intersecting the initial blade position, and a mechanism for accelerating the stage along the second trajectory and against the blade such that at least some of the momentum of the stage is imparted to the blade, causing the blade to move along the first trajectory from the initial blade position to the final blade position, where it blocks the passage of light through a light aperture of the camera. |
| US07832943B2 |
Cage for roller bearing
A roller bearing cage includes annular portions provided respectively at opposite ends thereof, a plurality of pillar portions interconnecting the annular portions, a plurality of pockets for respectively holding needle rollers, and roller retaining portions formed respectively on circumferentially-opposed wall surfaces and of each pocket portion. A concave groove smaller in width than the pillar portion is formed axially in a back surface of each pillar portion and those portion of back surfaces of the annular portions disposed respectively at opposite ends of each pillar portion. Separation groove portions are formed respectively at opposite sides of those portions of the concave groove disposed respectively at the opposite ends of the pillar portion, and extend respectively to corresponding circumferentially-opposite side surfaces of the pillar portion, and each separation groove portion separates the corresponding roller retaining portion and annular portion from each other. |
| US07832938B2 |
Floating bearing cartridge for a turbocharger shaft
An improved bearing system for use in high speed rotating machinery, such as a turbocharger, wherein a shaft is rotatably supported by a floating bearing cartridge having axially spaced angular contact bearings each with a set of bearing balls supported between inner and outer races. The bearing cartridge includes an inner spacer sleeve for axially spacing the inner bearing races, and a rotationally floating outer sleeve having a pair of radially inwardly open grooves for removably receiving snap-type retaining rings which engage and axially space the outer bearing races. The axial dimension of the inner spacer sleeve is elongated slightly relative to an axial dimension defined between outboard faces of the installed retaining rings, thereby slightly unloading the sets of bearing balls from their respective outer bearing races. Such slight axial unloading enhances smooth-running operation with minimal bearing wear, while accommodating transient loads during operation. |
| US07832936B2 |
Axial delash mechanism
A method for delashing a shaft assembly and an assembly embodying the method are disclosed. The assembly includes a housing having a bore extending therethrough, and a shaft mounted within the bore. A shoulder extends into the bore to define a constriction along the bore. A bushing is positioned on an end of the shaft such that at least a portion of the bushing is spaced apart from the shoulder to define a cavity therebetween when the shaft is in the bore. A filler material is disposed in the cavity between the bushing and the shoulder for maintaining an axial compressive load on the shaft. In another aspect, a plug formed from a fusible material is provided. The plug includes a base portion and a plurality of channels disposed along an exterior of the base portion for enabling a flow of melted plug material along the channels. |
| US07832935B2 |
Rotatable member and method for manufacturing the same
A bearing (100) has a contact surface (110) for mating with a rotatable member. The contact surface has a plurality of crystalline grains (120) distributed at random; a plurality of micro-grooves (130) are formed among the crystalline grains; the micro-grooves communicate with each other thereby forming a net. The micro-grooves accommodate lubricant therein so that when the rotatable member rotates, a sufficient lubrication can be obtained between the bearing and the rotatable member. The bearing is formed by machining and then thermally etching a preform which is formed by powder metallurgy. |
| US07832929B2 |
Linear motion guide unit
An end cap in the present linear motion guide unit is made up of an end cap major part and a spacer part, which, once assembled, define a turnaround passage between them to make sure of smooth running of the rolling elements. Especially, the turnaround passage in the end cap when viewed in the sliding direction of the slider is constituted with a curved route whose radius of curvature is constant, which extends from a center (Ok) of a load race to a center (Or) of a return passage, with making a detour to clear an upper edge of a track rail. A carriage of the slider has widthwise opposing return passages lying biased more sidewise inwards or center-ward than load races so as to make an interval or span (Pr) between the return passages less than a sidewise interval or span (Pk) between the load races. The curved route whose radius of curvature is constant, when viewed in the sliding direction of the slider, is arced over a semicircular range of 180 degrees. |
| US07832925B2 |
Apparatus and method for simulating heated airflow exhaust of an electronics subsystem, electronics rack or row of electronics racks
Apparatus and method are provided for facilitating simulation of heated airflow exhaust of an electronics subsystem, electronics rack or row of electronics racks. The apparatus includes a thermal simulator, which includes an air-moving device and a fluid-to-air heat exchanger. The air-moving device establishes airflow from an air inlet to air outlet side of the thermal simulator tailored to correlate to heated airflow exhaust of the electronics subsystem, rack or row of racks being simulated. The fluid-to-air heat exchanger heats airflow through the thermal simulator, with temperature of airflow exhausting from the simulator being tailored to correlate to temperature of the heated airflow exhaust of the electronics subsystem, rack or row of racks being simulated. The apparatus further includes a fluid distribution apparatus, which includes a fluid distribution unit disposed separate from the fluid simulator and providing hot fluid to the fluid-to-air heat exchanger of the thermal simulator. |
| US07832918B2 |
LED night light has laser or hologram element(s)
An LED night light has a laser or hologram optics-element and is suitable for night time or dark area use over an extended time period. The night light may be a plug-in wall outlet night light or direct current(DC) operated night light having an image, message, or logo shown on the surface of the optics element. The LED night light parts that may include a housing member, optics-lens, openings, cut-outs, and/or plastic parts to create a preferred image. The night light can be designed with added features to enable adjustment of the angle, distance, position, or orientation of the LED(s) with respect to the optics-means to provide eye-catching light effects by varying the image size, dimensions, etc. The power source may be interchanged between an AC powered sealed-unit and a DC powered battery-pack. |
| US07832916B2 |
Back chassis integrating reflector, back light and liquid crystal display
A modularized reflector is produced by integrating or laminating: a sheet metal back chassis in which a light source supporting section, a through-hole or a groove for extracting a light source electrode terminal, and a frame for supporting a light diffusing plate and an optical film are integrally formed through sheet metal working; and a light reflecting layer made of a molded product of a light reflective thermoplastic resin material formed into a shape for covering the back chassis. By producing a backlight device and a liquid crystal display using the reflector, there are provided the reflector reduced in the number of components, in the number of assembly steps, and in weight and thickness, and a back light and a liquid crystal display using the reflector. |
| US07832915B2 |
Surface light source device and image display unit
A surface light source device includes a first light source disposed so as to face a reflecting surface of a reflecting member, a second light source having spectrum selectivity different from that of the first light source, a light diffusing member configured to diffuse light rays emitted from the first and second light sources, and a transparent light control member disposed between the first light source and the light diffusing member so as to face the first light source and the light diffusing member. The light control member directs the light rays emitted from the first and second light sources in predetermined directions. The second light source faces an outer peripheral surface of the light control member. The light ray emitted from the second light source is directed by the light control member inside the light control member so as to be output towards the light diffusing member. |
| US07832914B2 |
Auxiliary positioning device for ultrasonic apparatus
An auxiliary positioning device for an ultrasonic apparatus is disclosed herein, which is installed on an ultrasonic probe. The auxiliary positioning device includes a fixing member, an adjusting member being flexible and coupled with the fixing member at one end thereof, a parallel light source coupled with the other end of the adjusting member and having a projection hole for passing a parallel light beam emitted from the parallel light source, and a cylindrical lens mounted on one end of the parallel light source in front of the projection hole, whereby the parallel light beam becomes a fanned light beam after it passes through the cylindrical lens. The auxiliary positioning device of the present invention can provide a high precise positioning for diagnosis and treatment. |
| US07832911B2 |
Motorcycle safety device
A motorcycle safety device includes a housing and a mount for coupling the housing to a motorcycle. A light assembly is removably coupled to the housing, the light assembly including a casing, a light positioned inside the casing, a lens coupled to the casing, and a battery positioned inside the casing. An input is in communication with the light to selectively cause the light to illuminate an area in front of the housing. A processor, tilt sensor, timer, and speaker are coupled to the housing, the tilt sensor and timer being in data communication with the processor. The processor includes programming to actuate at least one of the light and speaker upon the tilt sensor detecting a tilt event for a predetermined amount of time measured by the timer. |
| US07832908B2 |
Beacon light with reflector and light-emitting diodes
A light-emitting diode (LED) reflector optic includes a reflector having a reflector having a plurality of reflecting surfaces, wherein each one of the plurality of reflecting surfaces is associated with at least one optical axis, each reflecting surface comprising a cross-section that is projected along a curved trajectory and a plurality of LEDs, wherein each one of the plurality of LEDs is positioned in a line parallel to the cross-section of an associated one of the plurality of reflecting surfaces and relative to the associated reflecting surface of the plurality of reflecting surfaces such that a central light-emitting axis of each one of the plurality of LEDs is angled relative to the at least one optical axis of the associated reflecting surface of the plurality of reflecting surfaces at about 90° and such that each of the reflecting surfaces redirects and collimates a light output of a respective each one of the plurality of LEDs at an angle of about 90° with respect to the central light emitting axis of each one of the plurality of LEDs, wherein each one of the plurality of reflecting surfaces receives light from each one of the plurality of LEDs from a focal distance of the associated one of the plurality of reflecting surfaces. |
| US07832905B2 |
Reflector for gas discharge lamps
The invention relates to a reflector, in particular for discharge luminaires, in the case of which at least two facets direct the light from an upper and a lower region of the discharge lamp in the same direction. |
| US07832904B2 |
Controlling reflected light using electronic paper
A system and a method for using ePaper as a light control media in lighting fixtures or other light enhanced applications to modify, dim or color-shift the light used for lighting the space. One system includes a light source, an ePaper reflector with controllable reflectivity for controlling the light reflected from the reflector and/or an ePaper baffle with controllable translucency for controlling the light through the baffle. The light incident on the ePaper media may include light from other sources such as natural light. One method compares desired lighting in a space to characteristics of the light source. Characteristics of the ePaper media are then adjusted to provide the desired amount of light to the objects under illumination. Reflectivity from walls and furniture may be controlled by applying ePaper to their surfaces. The light source and the ePaper media may be controlled simultaneously to control the lighting. |
| US07832901B2 |
Beam adjustment mechanism for an LED light fixture
A beam adjustment mechanism for a light fixture includes a frame assembly having an aperture substantially within the center thereof. Multiple peripheral lighting units engage the sides of the frame assembly. Each lighting unit includes an LED, a heat sink, and a reflector member. A central connecting member and/or a central lighting unit is at least partially surrounded by the peripheral lighting units. The central connecting member and/or central lighting unit is hingedly connected to at least one of the peripheral lighting units. An adjustment shaft extends through and is moveably engaged with the aperture of the frame assembly. Movement of the adjustment shaft relative to the aperture exerts a force on the central connecting member and/or central lighting unit, which causes the hingedly connected peripheral lighting units to pivot relative to the central connecting member and/or central lighting unit. |
| US07832898B2 |
Environmentally friendly street lamps
The present invention relates to a LED street lamp, and more particularly to environmentally friendly LED street lamp. The LED street lamp comprises a main body and a plurality of LED bulbs, wherein the main body comprises a base plate; said base plate comprises two splay flat plate, namely the 1st flat plate and the 2nd plate; the inner side of the 1st flat plate and the 2nd flat plate comprise sunk cavities where the LED bulbs are provided; and the light beams from the LED bulbs at the 1st flat plate and the 2nd plate cross in front of the main body. |
| US07832895B2 |
Light emitting device
The device includes a blue light emitting region having a first light emitting part and a yellow light emitting region having a second light emitting part and a wavelength converting member arranged to absorb light from the second light emitting part and to convert the wavelength thereof to emit yellow light. The second light emitting part has a higher output than that of the first light emitting part. With this arrangement, output of the yellow light can be increased, so that the device can be used in an image reading apparatus with a high sensitivity. |
| US07832892B2 |
Solar LED lamp assembly
A solar LED lamp assembly includes a mounting member and two LED lamps fixed to a free end of the mounting member. The mounting member includes a pole and a cylindrical canister coupled with a distal end of the pole. The two LED lamps are respectively fixed to two opposite lateral sides of a circumferential periphery the canister of the mounting member and extend across each other. Each LED lamp includes a lamp frame, a plurality of LED modules mounted in the lamp frame and a solar panel mounted over a top of the lamp frame. The solar panel receives solar energy and converts it into electrical energy to activate the LED modules to radiate light. |
| US07832888B2 |
Method of displaying illuminated products
A method of displaying and merchandising a product that that provides customer interaction and product synchronization is disclosed. The method provides a product display that may include an upright display member having an illuminating member and lighting niches through which dynamic light shows may be projected. A product may be positioned in a lighting niche. A product experience shelf may also be coupled to the upright display member. The product experience shelf may include translucent recesses for holding and illuminating products and or samples of products. The product experience shelf may also incorporate an illuminated ring or border lining the outer edge of each recess for additional lighting effects. The method also provides an interactive customer interface that allows customers to adjust a control module which coordinates synchronized dynamic light shows throughout the display. The customer interface may also be illuminated and positioned on the product experience shelf. Furthermore, the method provides synchronization of dynamic light shows with the products on display. |
| US07832884B2 |
Backlight assembly having improved heat releasing structure and display device having the same
A backlight assembly having an improved heat releasing structure and a display device having the backlight assembly are provided. The backlight assembly includes a plurality of lamps emitting light and a fixing member receiving the plurality of lamps. A separating member protruding from an edge of the fixing member defines an inner space that contains the light-lamp portions in the fixing member, and the separating member separates electrodes of the lamps from the inner space. The separating member has openings that are positioned to direct the heat generated by the lamp electrodes away from the inner space where the excess heat can cause display quality deterioration. |
| US07832882B2 |
Information mirror system
An information mirror system includes an interior rearview mirror assembly having an electro-optic transflective reflective element and a reconfigurable liquid crystal video display operable to display information. The video display is disposed in the mirror housing rearward of the transflective mirror reflector of the transflective reflective element, wherein information displayed by the video display is viewable by a driver of the equipped vehicle viewing through the transflective mirror reflector when the video display is displaying information. The rearview mirror assembly includes a microprocessor that controls dimming of the electro-optic transflective reflective element and that controls the video display. The information mirror system includes a forward facing camera that captures images through the windshield of the equipped vehicle. The forward facing camera is associated with a headlamp controller that, responsive to image processing of images captured by the forward facing camera, is operable to control the headlamps of the equipped vehicle. |
| US07832881B2 |
Mirror drive apparatus and imaging apparatus
A mirror drive apparatus includes a movable unit including a mirror used to switch an optical path in an imaging apparatus, a drive mechanism capable of switching the movable unit between a first and second attitudes by pivoting the movable unit around a predetermined pivotal axis, an elastic member and a locking mechanism provided on one side of the pivotal axis, the elastic member producing an urging force for switching the movable unit from the first attitude to the second attitude, the locking mechanism capable of maintaining the first attitude of the movable unit on which the urging force acts and releasing the movable unit, and a toggle mechanism provided on the other side of the pivotal axis and capable of switching the movable unit between the first attitude and the second attitude by urging the movable unit so that the movable unit takes the first or second attitude. |
| US07832880B2 |
Mirror mount having plural flexure elements
A mirror mount includes a two-axis mirror flexure mount with increased stiffness in all but the desired degrees of freedom. The mount is an integrally formed support for a mirror and includes a rigid portion, a plurality of base portions suitable for mounting the mirror thereto, and a plurality of substantially linear flexure elements disposed between the mount portion and the base portion to connect the mount portion and the base portion together. The flexure elements each define an axis of rotation and are operable to allow the mount portion to rotate relative to the base portion along either axis of rotation. |
| US07832878B2 |
Light emitting diode projection system
The present invention generally relates to video and/or television projection systems, and more particularly, to LED based light source systems utilizing generally non-rotationally symmetric, preferably oblong or rectangular, non-imaging collection optics for providing improved projection systems relative to arc lamp and other LED based light source systems. The non-rotationally symmetric non-imaging collection optics are configured to operate with LEDs to provide preferred, generally, uniform light distributions whose étendues match those of downstream applications such as those encountered in projection systems. Also provided are various arrangements for coupling LED output to the entrance aperture of collection optics and for coupling the outputs from a plurality of collection optic outputs to form single beams of illumination of preferred patterns, intensities, and color. |
| US07832877B2 |
Optical modulators including incorporated into mobile terminal projector
A mobile terminal includes an optical modulation projector. The mobile terminal also includes a control system, a projection control unit, and an optical modulation system. The control system outputs a projection control signal and image data. The projection control unit receives the image data from the control system, and generates and outputs a drive control signal depending on the image data received. The optical modulation system generates and modulates light and generates an image in response to the drive control signal and then scans the image for projecting onto a screen. |
| US07832875B2 |
Modulated diode pumped microchip laser projector
A laser projector including a green diode pumped microchip laser module projecting a green laser beam, an optical sensor receiving the laser beam, a power control circuit for the green diode pumped microchip laser module receiving a signal from the optical sensor relative to the power output of the laser beam, and control electronics receiving the signal from the optical sensor connected to the power control circuit modulating the power output of the green diode pumped microchip laser module to maintain a substantially constant power output from the green diode pumped microchip laser module. |
| US07832874B2 |
Display shelf for illuminating an article placed on a placing table
Screens are positioned at front areas of respective placing tables which form placing spaces for placing an article. Each of the screens is a transmission-type screen capable of transmitting projection image light projected on a back side of the screen. A first optical system and a second optical system are arranged inside the display shelf. The first optical system leads first partial image light, which is included in projection image light projected from a projector in the display shelf, to the back sides of the screens. And the second optical system leads second partial image light, which is included in the projection image light, to at least one of the placing spaces. |
| US07832869B2 |
Method and device for performing stereoscopic image display based on color selective filters
In one aspect, the present invention relates to a stereoscopic projection system including a projection device with at least one filter which filters a parameter of the light in a color selective manner. The at least one filter which filters a parameter of the light in a color selective manner has a spectral characteristic for transmitting light in a first wavelength band or set of wavelength bands and for reflecting light in a second wavelength band or set of wavelength bands. The projection device includes a device, such as e.g. a rotating wheel or a sliding filter, for fast synchronized switching between light in different wavelength bands or sets of wavelength bands. In a further aspect, a stereoscopic projection system is provided in which a combination of a first and a second filter mechanism are used, the first filter mechanism being a filter which filters a parameter of the light in a color selective manner, such as a color selective filter or a color selective retarder, and the second filter mechanism preferably being a polarizer or a shutter. |
| US07832867B2 |
Retinal scan device with removable eyepiece and onboard data storage
A method and architecture are provided for obtaining and authenticating a retinal scan using a host device, such as a laptop or hand-held computer, in a manner that is ergonomically sound and is easy to use. A PCMCIA card is used to obtain and authenticate retinal scans. The PCMCIA card includes a removable retinal-scanning eyepiece and an on-board software component for verifying retinal scans. A wired or wireless (e.g., infrared link, Bluetooth, etc.) connection is provided for delivering the retinal scan data from the retinal-scanning eyepiece to the PCMCIA card. The authentication is performed securely on the PCMCIA card and the scan is not retained in the laptop memory. |
| US07832865B2 |
Ophthalmic photographic apparatus
A timer function hold mode in which the timer continues the timing function is set in a mydriatic fluorescence mode by operating a timer switch for at least a fixed time, or by simultaneously operating a fluorescence filter switch and the timer switch. If the timer function hold mode is set in the mydriatic fluorescence mode, then the timing of the timer is continued even after the photography mode switches to another photography mode e.g. non-mydriatic or mydriatic color mode. When, on the other hand, the timer function hold mode is not set in the mydriatic fluorescence mode, the timer is caused to be stopped or reset when the mode is switched to the non-mydriatic or mydriatic color mode. |
| US07832864B2 |
Inverse optical design
An imaging apparatus for simultaneously determining optical parameters of the eye comprising: a light source for illuminating at least a portion of the eye pupil; an illumination optical system for directing light rays emitted from the light source into the eye; a light receiving optical system for guiding the light rays reflected from the eye to a detector unit, wherein the detector unit detects an image intensity distribution from the light rays reflected from the eye; and an arithmetic unit for determining optical characteristics of the eye by parameter estimation is provided. |
| US07832863B2 |
Customized Z-lens design program
Embodiments of the invention pertain to a method for producing a spectacle lens with optimal correction across the entire lens taking into account the patient's complete measured wavefront. Specific embodiments can also take into account one or more additional factors such as vertex distance, SEG height, pantoscopic tilt, and use conditions. The lens wavefront can be achieved by optimizing a corrected wavefront, where the corrected wavefront is the combined effect of the patient's measured wavefront and the lens wavefront. The optimization of the corrected wavefront can involve representing the measured wavefront and the lens wavefront on a grid. In an embodiment, the grid can lie in a plane. During the optimization, a subset of the grid can be used for the representation of the measured wavefront at a point on the grid so as to take into account the portions of the measured wavefront that contribute to the corrected wavefront at that point on the grid. |
| US07832862B2 |
Process for the manufacture of spectacle lenses
The invention provides methods for eliminating sharp edges that typically result during the production of uncut lenses. |
| US07832854B2 |
Device for fixing mount members to spectacle lenses, and spectacles, particularly of the type devoid of lens-holding rims, including said fixing device
A device for spectacles, such as a lug for the articulation of a spectacle arm or a central nasal support bridge, to a lens, the lens has a pair of holes for the locking of the mount member, has a pair of bush members rigidly connected to each other and has respective axial holes, there being provided in the mount member a pair of pin-type appendages capable of being inserted into the respective holes subject to the introduction of these latter into the corresponding lens holes, such that each bush member is interposed between an inner surface of the lens hole and a corresponding outer surface of appendage. Each pin-type appendage has localized protuberances that deform the corresponding coupling surface. The fixing device has at least one relief protruding from the outer wall of each appendage and extending on a helical course in the axial direction of the appendage. |
| US07832850B2 |
Inkjet printer with a controller cradle and printing cartridge
An inkjet printer has a cradle for receiving a printer cartridge. The cradle has a controller board with a pressurized air supply. The cartridge has a printhead integrated circuit, a rotor element, an air delivery channel and a plurality of reservoirs for discretely storing printing fluids for supply to the printhead integrated circuit. A power and data interface interfaces with the controller board. |
| US07832845B2 |
Liquid ejection head, image forming apparatus and method of manufacturing liquid ejection head
The liquid ejection head includes: a substrate made of a prescribed material on which a thin film is deposited to constitute a diaphragm; a piezoelectric body which is formed on a face of the diaphragm reverse to a face adjacent to the substrate; and a pressure chamber which is formed on the substrate by etching in a plurality of steps from a side reverse to a side adjacent to the diaphragm and has a difference in width thereof. |
| US07832838B2 |
Printhead with exterior surface profiled for wiping maintenance station
A printhead assembly with an elongate printhead IC having a nozzle face defining an array of nozzles, and a support structure for supporting the elongate printhead IC on an external surface such that its length is transverse to a media feed direction through the printer. The external surface has a section that is flush with a long side edge of the elongate printhead IC. |
| US07832837B2 |
Print assembly and printer having wide printing zone
A print assembly is provided having an elongate carrier that is mountable on a support structure of a printer to be positioned an operative distance from a platen of the printer, printhead integrated circuits mounted on the carrier, and control circuitry positioned on the carrier and operatively connected to the printhead integrated circuits to control operation thereof. The printhead integrated circuits are provided in a number and configuration such that the printhead integrated circuits define an elongate printing zone between the carrier and the platen of at least 914 mm. Each printhead integrated circuit incorporates nozzle arrangements each having a nozzle, an ink chamber, an ink inlet, an actuator, and a drive circuit to achieve the ejection of ink from the nozzle arrangement. The print assembly has more than 150,000 of the nozzle arrangements. |
| US07832834B2 |
Printhead nozzle face wiper with array of pads
A maintenance facility for an inkjet printer that has a printhead with an array of nozzles defined in a nozzle face. The printhead maintenance facility has a wiper member having an array of contact pads mounted for movement independent of each other and a maintenance drive for moving the wiper member over the printhead in the media feed direction such that the array of contact pads wipe all the nozzles defined in the nozzle face. |
| US07832828B2 |
Maintenance station for printhead with laminar ink flow cleaning methodology
The invention relates to a maintenance station for an inkjet printhead assembly. The printhead assembly includes a carrier frame operatively supporting an ink supply manifold and a pagewidth printhead supplied with ink from said manifold. The station is moveable between a cleaning position and a printing position, and includes a drive motor, and a number of rollers of which at least one is operatively actuated by the drive motor. The station also includes a film wound in a loop around said rollers, so that actuation of the rollers by the motor produces a laminar ink flow in a cavity defined by the maintenance station and printhead assembly when in the cleaning position. This enables an ejection surface of the printhead to be cleaned without the film physically contacting said ejection surface. |
| US07832824B1 |
Method for printing with an accelerating printhead
A method for printing input digital images using an inkjet printing system having a first and second drop ejector arrays for ejecting drops of a particular ink, wherein ink paths supplying drop ejector arrays have different length projections. The method comprising printing a first combined number of ink dots using the first and second drop ejector arrays during first and third time intervals where the printhead is accelerating and decelerating; and printing a second combined number of ink dots using the first and second drop ejector arrays during a second time interval where the printhead is moving at a substantially constant velocity, wherein the percentage of ink dots that are printed by the drop ejector array having a longer length projection is less than 40% of the corresponding combined number of ink dots in at least one of the first or third time intervals. |
| US07832822B2 |
Ink jet printing apparatus and method for controlling print position on deflected print medium
A method for controlling a printing position for a printing apparatus for using a plurality of printing heads to print an image is provided. This method prevents, even when a conveyed print medium has deformation such as deflection, a printing position of a print medium from being dislocated. To realize this, components 11 to 14 for detecting the conveyance speed of a print medium and components 101 to 107 adjusting the driving timing at which the respective plurality of printing heads eject ink in accordance with the resultant conveyance speed are provided. As a result, even when a conveyed print medium has deformation such as deflection, the control can be provided that prevents the print medium from having a dislocated printing position. |
| US07832821B2 |
Inkjet printing apparatus
In an inkjet printing apparatus using plural line type inkjet printing heads for one color ink, and forming an image by dividing image data into pieces corresponding to the plural printing heads, a complementary printing operation using a simple configuration is achieved without causing a substantial decrease in printing speed even when one printing head has a poorly ejecting nozzle. When a one printing head has a poorly ejecting nozzle, a corresponding nozzle of another printing head complements the printing operation assigned to the poorly ejecting nozzle. At this time, the same piece of divided image data is fed to the one and the other printing heads. Then, the printing operation of the one printing head is made invalid only at the timing of driving the poorly ejecting nozzle, and the printing operation of the second printing head is made valid only at the timing of driving the corresponding nozzle. |
| US07832820B2 |
Regulating energy based on delivered energy
In one embodiment, a method for regulating energy delivered to a load includes: determining a quantity of energy that has been delivered to the load during a time interval; comparing the quantity of energy delivered with a threshold value; and delaying delivery of additional energy to the load until the time interval has expired if a magnitude of a difference between the threshold value and a sum of the quantity of energy and the additional energy exceeds a predetermined value. |
| US07832819B2 |
Open loop print speed control
A method for controlling print speed of an imaging device is provided. The imaging device includes at least one reservoir for supplying liquid ink to a print head and a level sensor in the reservoir. The method comprises measuring an image density of at least a portion of a print job for the imaging device. A state of a level sensor in a print head reservoir is detected. The print speed is adjusted to a target speed in response to the level sensor indicating an open loop state. The target speed is a function of the image density. The print speed is adjusted to a default speed in response to the level sensor indicating a closed loop state. |
| US07832818B1 |
Inkjet pen with proximity interconnect
An inkjet pen includes a print head comprising a substrate, a plurality of inkjet nozzles formed into the substrate, integrated circuitry on the substrate for driving the inkjet nozzles, and a proximity interconnect transceiver formed into the substrate for receiving print data. An interconnect chip having a counterpart proximity interconnect transceiver passes the print data to the print head using capacitive coupling. |
| US07832816B2 |
Frame to support pull-out and rotating racks for cabinets
An improved frame to support pull-out and rotating racks for cabinets. The frame has a telescopic guide with a sliding end. The rack is prevented from accidentally rotating during pull-out. |
| US07832815B2 |
Track roller assembly and machine using same
A track roller assembly for a track-type machine such as an excavator or a tractor includes an outer surface with no fluid ports and an inner surface free from any fluids. The track roller includes a shaft resting on self-lubricated bushings, which include a substrate that has lubricating properties, such as a substrate that carries a solid lubricant. The track roller assembly also includes a collar and a retention plate on both sides of the shaft. |
| US07832814B2 |
Snow and debris deflector for a track system
A deflector for reducing the ingestion of snow and/or other debris in one of the sprocket wheel and the idler wheel area of a vehicle equipped with endless tracks is provided. The deflector generally comprises a rigid plate associated with the vehicle and positioned near the sprocket wheel or the idler wheel thereof, and a resilient pad having an upper portion coupled with the rigid plate and a lower portion freely extending from the upper portion and extending toward the inner surface of the track to limit the ingestion of snow and/or other debris in the sprocket wheel or idler wheel area of the vehicle during its operation. The lower portion of the resilient pad is generally provided with reinforcing elements which allow the resilient pad to be essentially rigid in the direction of ingestion yet pivotable in the opposite direction. |
| US07832805B1 |
Adjusting structure for an armrest of a chair
An adjusting structure for an armrest of a chair comprises a support member, an armrest, a side cover, a press member, a guiding member, a housing, and an engaging unit; wherein in operation, the press member is pressed inward to disengage the guiding member from the limiting recess of the support member. Thereafter, the armrest is adjusted to tilt forward so that the screw elements and the guiding member are guided toward a predetermined orientation along the arcuate groove, and the engaging unit abuts against the support member, thereby positioning the armrest. |
| US07832803B2 |
Headrest linkage
An adjustable linkage to support an object comprising a pair of arms rotatable about a first axis, one of said arms supporting said object and damper means disposed about said first axis between said arms for selective rotational movement and placement of said object relative said other arm. |
| US07832801B2 |
Highchair with adjustable seat
An embodiment of the present invention discloses a highchair with adjustable seat, including a frame and support device, which are connected to the frame and which form a bearing plane for supporting the frame on a floor. The frame includes at least two substantially parallel uprights which in a position of use of the chair protrude at least partly obliquely above the bearing plane. Further, the highchair includes a part adjustable along the uprights, which is provided with an engaging device for engaging the two uprights, wherein the engaging device includes at least one receiving chamber for engaging part of the way round the upright. |
| US07832800B2 |
Massage chair with angle adjustable chair frame
The present invention is related to one massage chair with slant angle adjustable chair frame, primarily comprising one basic frame, one chair frame, two first connecting members, two second connecting members and one linearly retractable actuator. The basic frame comprises one base frame and two support frames arranged in parallel and stretching up from said base frame. Every support frame has one first pivot portion and one second pivot portion. The chair frame has at least one set of massage chair, comprising one seat frame with two side frames. Every said side frame has one third pivot portion and one fourth pivot portion. Every first connecting member has one top end and one bottom end. The top end is pivotally connected to the first pivot portion of the corresponding support frame. The bottom end is pivotally connected to the third pivot portion of one corresponding side frame. Every second connecting member has one top end and one bottom end. The top end is pivotally connected to the second pivot portion of one corresponding support frame. The bottom end is pivotally connected to the fourth pivot portion of one corresponding side frame. The actuator has a first end and a second end. Both ends can make relatively liner retraction. The first end is pivotally connected to the basic frame. The second end is pivotally connected to the chair frame. The basic frame, the first connecting member, the second connecting member and the chair frame are pivotally connected into a four-linkage mechanism. By means of above structural designing, the adjustment of angle slanting speed can be slowed down, and a comfortable feeling can be enhanced for the user who lies down on, or leans against the massage chair. |
| US07832791B2 |
Liftgate exterior module for an automotive vehicle
The technology described herein provides a molded trim assembly located externally at the top of a liftgate structure to provide an aerodynamic and stylish overhang above the liftgate glass. Furthermore, the technology also provides a liftgate exterior module including a plug-in module containing a motorized window wiper arm assembly, a central high mounted stop light, and a washer fluid spray nozzle. |
| US07832789B2 |
Integrated vehicle door hinge and handle
A vehicle including an integrated vehicle door hinge and interior handle is disclosed. The integrated vehicle door hinge and interior handle may comprise a door hinge and an interior door release handle, with the door hinge having a hinge support flange pivotally coupled with a vehicle body, and an exposed hinge arm extending from the hinge support flange. The interior door release handle may include a pull handle configured for gripping by a vehicle occupant, and a handle pass through arm extending from the pull handle and connected to the exposed hinge arm, with the handle pass through arm mounted to the door. |
| US07832782B2 |
Stake system for flatbed vehicles
A stake system for providing a removable support for articles being transported on flatbed vehicles is provided. The stake system has a composite body with a cap on one end and a boot on the opposite end. A cover layer is shrink wrapped over the composite body and may include a heat-activated adhesive. The boot includes a flange that contacts the flatbed vehicle when the stake system is inserted into pockets formed in the flatbed vehicle. A pin is tethered to the boot and may be inserted into a hole in the boot adjacent to the underside of the flatbed vehicle. The pin provides a convenient means for locking the stake system to the vehicle and prevents the stake system from disengaging during operation. |
| US07832780B1 |
Portable kitchen apparatus
The present invention features a portable kitchen apparatus for attaching to a vehicle comprising a foldable countertop having a sink basin hole, a stove hole, a sink basin, a stove, and a flame protector. The portable kitchen apparatus may be used for outdoor cooking and/or cleaning while camping. |
| US07832779B2 |
Protective accessory bumper
An accessory bumper for use on a host vehicle, such as a security vehicle, for providing collision protection when the host vehicle performs PIT maneuvers. The accessory bumper includes protective elements on front side of the vehicle, for protecting both the accessory bumper and also minimizing damage to the host vehicle's engine and other critical components necessary for the operation of the vehicle. |
| US07832776B2 |
Pipe clamp with integral latch
A pipe clamp that enables two pipes to be loosely connected together in a desired axially-aligned and rotationally-aligned configuration prior to tightening of the clamp. The pipe clamp includes a band having a first end and a second end, and a tightening mechanism connected to the band for drawing the ends of the band together. The pipe clamp further includes a latch having a base portion attached to the band and a clip portion that snaps over a button welded to the pipe to temporarily hold the clamp in place on the pipe. |
| US07832775B2 |
Bayonet air guide connector for a turbocharger
A connection for connecting tubular air guide element to a turbocharger includes a tubular nipple having a connection end provided with first set of locking element and an air guide element having a connection end provided with a second set of locking elements. A bayonet ring having locking elements is received over the connection ends and forms a bayonet coupling, coupling the tubular nipple and air guide element in a sealed manner. |
| US07832772B2 |
Exhaust pipe bulkhead assembly
An assembly for establishing a water-tight seal for a conduit passing through a wall or other structure wherein the conduit conveys heated fluid, such as exhaust gasses. The assembly is adapted to minimize the heat transferred to the wall or other structure by creating a circuitous heat transfer path in conjunction with thermally insulating materials. |
| US07832768B2 |
Retaining system with seat belt retractor and pretensioner device
A restraining system for a motor vehicle with a seat belt retractor that accommodates the one end of a seatbelt component, which has a tightening device having a belt shaft and a drive cable connected to the belt shaft, in which a sleeve (26) that enlarges the outer circumference of the shaft element (25) is slid onto one end of the shaft element (25) and is axially and radially fixed to the shaft element (25), while the wall thickness of the sleeve (26) is dimensioned in such a way that the drive radius of the shaft element (25) and a reduction in speed of the tightening drive is provided as compared with a cable wrapped onto the belt shaft. |
| US07832767B2 |
Aluminum flatbed with unique front connection
A drop deck trailer frame includes a front section having a first upper surface, a rear section having a second upper surface lower than the first upper surface, and an improved connection between the front and rear sections which tends to reduce cracking which commonly occurs in drop deck trailer frames due to the stresses in the region of the connection. The connection preferably includes a semicircular weld. In addition, heat treated bent flanges are typically used to provide additional strength. Fasteners such as bolts are also typically used to connect various flanges. |
| US07832765B2 |
Sealing device of steering column
The present invention provides a sealing device of a steering column where a sealing member of a steering column passing through a dashboard and a dust cover provided to a dashboard are separately formed and detachably attached to each other, thereby effectively intercepting noise and foreign substances transmitted into a vehicle cabin from an engine room. The sealing device includes a shaft, a sealing member, and a dust cover. The shaft connects a steering column with a steering gearbox. The sealing member is rotatably provided on shaft at a predetermined position. The dust cover is detachably attached to sealing member and is provided to a dashboard. |
| US07832756B2 |
Stroller
A stroller comprising at least one seat assembly, a first part comprising at least one front wheel, a second part comprising at least one rear wheel, and a third part comprising at least one push rod provided with a handle, at least two of which parts are each provided with at least one toothing which is pivotable about a pivot pin. The toothings are in mesh with each other, thus pivotally interconnecting the three parts. The second part comprises an arcuate rod, which is provided with at least one rear wheel at both ends, which arcuate rod is pivotally connected to the first part and the third part between its two ends. |
| US07832748B2 |
Structure supporting a motor vehicle front end assembly comprising coupling means in the form of a hollow body of a mini-cradle with side members, and corresponding vehicle
A structure for a motor vehicle front end assembly includes a mini-cradle having mounted thereon a suspension arm for each wheel of the front end assembly. The suspension arm has the shape of a boomerang. The supporting end of the suspension arm is coupled to a wheel. A front articulation end (point A) and a rear articulation end of the arm are coupled to the mini-cradle. The mini-cradle has a body and two side rails that extend towards the vehicle front. The two side rails are coupled, via a coupling unit, to a side member of the vehicle in a zone located forward, relative to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle, of point A of the suspension arm. The coupling unit includes at least one hollow body allowing a through screwing unit to couple the rail with the side member. |
| US07832743B2 |
Device for manually transporting a carcass
A device for manually transporting a carcass 8 or similar sized object includes a transport member 12, at least one hauling member 18 for manually pulling the transport member 12 with a carcass 8 therein, the hauling member 18 being secured to the transport member 12, at least one carcass member 20 for securing the carcass 8 to the transport member 12, and at least one closing member 22 for wrapping the transport member 12 about the carcass 8. |
| US07832741B2 |
Vehicle support system
The disclosure is generally directed toward vehicle support systems. In one embodiment of the invention, first and second support assemblies can be pivotally coupled to a base. A control mechanism can couple the first and second support assemblies together and be configured to control pivotal movement of the support assemblies between spread and stowed positions. In another embodiment, first and second support assemblies can be pivotally coupled to a base and to first and second wheel assemblies. First and second steering mechanisms can be coupled to the first and second wheel assemblies and the first and second support assemblies. A control system can be operatively coupled to the first and second steering mechanisms and can be configured to command selected angular positions of the first and second wheel assemblies relative to the base by compensating for the support assemblies being in various positions. |
| US07832738B2 |
Method for operating active stabilizers in motor vehicles and motor vehicle having active stabilizers
A method for operating active stabilizers in a motor vehicle includes an on-road mode and an off-road mode. In the on-road mode a stabilizer is activated and deactivated in dependence on operating parameters of the motor vehicle, in particular the travel speed and/or the lateral acceleration and/or a level sensor system, wherein in the activated state rolling motions of the vehicle are reduced by introducing torque into the stabilizer or stabilizers that counteracts the rolling motion. In the off-road mode, the stabilizer is deactivated up to a given travel speed or, in case of an alternate jouncing of the wheels, a control of the stabilizer is performed such that a downward force of the rebounding wheel is increased. Wheel slip may be used as a parameter when controlling the stabilizers. A motor vehicle having active stabilizers is also provided. |
| US07832735B2 |
Seal assembly with protective filter
A fluid seal assembly including a specialized protective filter unit which is adapted for use with a fluid seal, as well as to the combination of a protective filter unit with an associated seal unit to form a complete seal assembly. The seal provides increased reliability, particularly in those specialized seals wherein high internal pressure and the possibility of particulate contaminants are present. |
| US07832730B2 |
Board game
The present invention provides a board game. The board game includes a spinning device and an inner and outer ring of characters. The characters include at least one of a plurality of numbers or a plurality of letters located in one or more rings. Each player activates the spinning device. After the spinning device has stopped a master scorecard and the scorecard associated with the player who performed the activation of the spinning device are marked to identify what letter or number the spinning device is pointing to. The players rotate spinning of the spinning device until the master scorecard indicates that the game is over. |
| US07832722B1 |
Paper feeding device
A paper feeding device includes a supporting base and a paper arranging module. The supporting base has a supporting surface, an inclined supporting plane, and a slot located at the supporting surface. The paper arranging module includes a guiding structure fixed under the supporting surface, a paper-pushing structure slidably disposed on the guiding structure, an elastic element interconnected between the paper-pushing structure and a fixed end, and a gear disposed on the guiding structure. The gear has an engaging part for engaging with and driving the paper-pushing structure to move toward the inclined supporting plane along the slot for arranging the paper sheets supported on the supporting base, thus facilitating subsequent paper dividing. When a non-engaging part of the gear corresponds to the paper-pushing structure, the paper-pushing structure is restored to an original position by an elastic force of the elastic element. |
| US07832719B2 |
Method and buffer station for buffering documents
Between a document feeding device and a document processing device, documents are received in a sequential order in a buffer station, temporarily stored in a transport path and delivered in the order of receipt. The transport of the documents in a collecting portion of the transport path is controlled separately from the transport of the documents in a delivery portion of the transport path. After delivery of a single or last document present in the delivery portion from the delivery portion, and before the piece-by-piece delivery of documents of a next group from the delivery portion is started, the next group of documents collected in the collecting portion is passed on to the delivery portion. A buffer station for practicing the method is also described. |
| US07832718B2 |
Sheet post processing apparatus and image forming system
A sheet post processing apparatus of compact shape with good alignment can be obtained by providing an accumulation tray for aligning and accumulating sheets successively delivered, a post processing unit for performing a post process such as binding to a sheet stack accumulated on the accumulation tray, and a grip unit for gripping the post processed sheet stack. The post processing unit enables the accumulation tray to reciprocate in a direction transverse to a discharging direction of a sheet discharge tray. The grip unit has a grip part for gripping the sheet stack, a guide part for reciprocally guiding the grip part back and forth in the sheet discharging direction. The grip part is separable from the guide part during a movement of the post processing unit. |
| US07832711B2 |
Control system for transfer means
A control system comprising a force measuring means (3) for measuring the magnitude of the force acting on a lower part of the rope suspending a load, which force is caused by a force imposed on the load by an operator, the mass of the load, and an acceleration of the load; a first control means (4) having a first computing unit, the first computing unit computing a rotational direction and a velocity of a servomotor to be driven, based on the measured result from the force measuring means, and outputting a signal that corresponds to the measured result to the servomotor, a length measuring means for measuring the length of a rope (2) wound down from a hoist drum; a weight measuring means for measuring the weight of the load suspended from the rope; an angle measuring means for measuring the angle of the rope relative to a vertical plane when the operator laterally pushes the load; and a second control means having a second computing unit, the second computing unit computing the operation conditions for the crane based on the measured information from the length measuring means, the weight measuring means, and the angle measuring means, and outputting a signal that corresponds to the measured result to the crane. |
| US07832710B2 |
Device for tensioning belts and the like
The tensioning device for belts and the like comprises a supporting base (2), a winding reel (6) which can rotate relative to the base (2) about a respective axis of rotation (A1), a ring gear (13) which rotates integrally with the reel (6), an operating lever (14) for rotating the reel (6) in a first predetermined direction of rotation (S1) for winding the belt, a ratche mechanism (39), operating on the ring gear (13) and designed to prevent the reel (6) from rotating in a second direction of rotation (S2) opposite to the first predetermined direction (S1), the ratchet mechanism (39) comprising respective release means for allowing belt unwinding by reel (6) rotation in the second direction of rotation (S2). Further, the ratchet mechanism (39) comprises a first tooth (19) for engagement with the ring gear (13), the first tooth being designed to oscillate about two respective axis of oscillation (O1, O2). |
| US07832706B2 |
RAM BOP position sensor
A ram-type blowout preventer includes a pair of ram assemblies adapted for controlled lateral movement to and from a vertical bore. Each ram assembly has a hydraulic piston connected at a first end to a ram block and at a second end to a piston tail. A magnetostrictive waveguide tube extends into a bore of at least one piston tail and a permanent magnet is disposed upon the at least one piston tail. The magnetostrictive waveguide tube has a conducting wire to receive an interrogation pulse from a transducer, the interrogation pulse generates a helical return signal in response to a relative position of the permanent magnet with respect to the waveguide tube, and the transducer is configured to receive the helical return signal and output a position of the ram block corresponding to the at least one piston tail. |
| US07832700B2 |
Mounting system with adjustable moving capabilities
A mounting system for providing horizontal adjustment to a device mounted on the mounting system. At least one first articulating arm is rotatably connected to a carriage assembly, where the carriage assembly is slidably engaged with groove guide of a wall plate. The wall plate is mounted to a wall or other similar surface, while at least one second articulating arm is also rotatably connected to the at least one first articulating arm at one end. At the other end, the at least one second articulating arm is operatively connected to a tilt assembly for tilting a device connected to the tilt assembly. The mounting system provides easy horizontal adjustment via sliding the carriage assembly along the groove guide(s) and via rotating the at least first and second articulating arms. |
| US07832693B2 |
Fastener
The invention relates to fasteners adapted for use in automobile air bag attachment systems. The fastener comprises a hook to engage a vehicle structure during installation and a pin to lock the fastener in place. Advantageously, the hook portion may be quickly installed and will support the air bag assembly while allowing any positional adjustments to be made prior to locking the fastener by depressing the pin until it is fully engaged in the vehicle structure. An embodiment of the invention incorporates both a locking method to prevent the fastener from being disengaged and a method of releasing this lock if needed for servicing. Another aspect of the invention provides a method for reducing the likelihood of improperly installed parts by preventing locking when the fastener is in a partially installed configuration. |
| US07832692B1 |
Pipe installation support device
An apparatus for supporting a pipe segment during installation has been developed. The support includes a frame with two parallel arms and two beams that connect the arms, where each beam extends downward from the arms. Also included are four support bearings located at each corner of the frame, where the bearings provide four separate points of contact for a pipe segment. |
| US07832691B2 |
System and method for train operation approaching grade crossings
A system and method that enables trains to rapidly accelerate through grade crossings from station stops or civil speed restrictions is disclosed. In some embodiments, equipped trains and grade-crossing controllers communicate wirelessly to address operational limitations pertaining to the grade crossings. In conjunction with the train's equipment, conventional crossing controllers are augmented with a communications capability and logic to accept commands to operate in a “Prediction” mode or a “Motion-Sensing” mode. The Prediction mode is the default operating mode for conventional constant-warning grade-crossing prediction controllers. The Motion-Sensing mode is an operating mode whereby the crossing is actuated as soon as an approach circuit detects train motion. |
| US07832687B1 |
On-orbit storage, plane change, and injection to final orbit of space vehicles
Methods are described for launching multiple space vehicles. A first space vehicle and a second space vehicle can be detachably attached to a launch vehicle. The first space vehicle is for an orbit of a first desired altitude in a first desired orbital plane. The second vehicle is for an orbit of a second desired altitude in a second desired orbital plane. The launch vehicle with the first and second space vehicles may be launched into a first orbit in or near the first desired orbital plane. The second space vehicle may be released in the first orbit. When the orbital plane of the second space vehicle coincides with the second desired orbital plane, the second space vehicle may be transferred to a transfer orbit. The second space vehicle may be transferred to the orbit of the second desired altitude in the second desired orbital plane. |
| US07832684B2 |
Ram air channel for the supply of ambient air in an aircraft
A ram air channel (10) for the supply of ambient air in an aircraft includes a first air inlet (12) and a main flow channel (16) which extends downstream of the first air inlet (12). In order to guarantee that the systems on board the aircraft are supplied, in a simple and reliable way, with the required ambient air in any operational state of the aircraft, i.e. both during the flight and on the ground, the ram air channel (10) has a second air inlet (24) which is independent from the first air inlet (12). |
| US07832683B2 |
Reel and manufacturing method thereof
A reel includes: a circular cylinder-shaped hub that includes an inner peripheral surface on which a protruding portion that protrudes in a radial direction is formed and an outer peripheral surface around which recording tape is wound; a first flange that is disposed on one end portion of the hub and includes a first extension portion that is welded to the protruding portion; and a second flange that is disposed on the other end portion of the hub and includes a second extension portion that is welded to the protruding portion. The rigidity of the hub can be improved, and the welding strength of the flanges with respect to the hub can also be improved. |
| US07832682B2 |
Method and device for orienting a material roll prior to axial alignment in a roll changer
A material roll is transported to a roll changer by being arranged on a transport carriage. The material roll and transport carriage are placed on a transfer table which is moved into position between journal bearings of the roll changer. The transfer table is adapted to move the material roll transversely and along a longitudinal axis of the material roll and can pivot in a horizontal plane. An inclined position of the material roll, arranged on the transfer table, is determined by sensors. In this determined, axially aligned position, the material roll is axially aligned on the bearing journals. The roll size of the material is determined. An axially aligned position for roller support arms of a roll carrier of the roll changer is determined as a function of the determined roll size. An axially aligned position of the transfer table is determined as a function of the determined roll size and the determined inclined position of the material roll. The position of both ends of the sleeve of the material roll, upon insertion of the transfer table into the roll changer, is detected. The material roll is then inclined by a rotary drive which is arranged on the transfer table. |
| US07832680B2 |
Continuous sheet processing apparatus
A continuous sheet processing apparatus has a main body portion that accommodates a roll formed of a wound continuous sheet, a door portion movable to opened and closed positions for opening and closing an inlet of the main body portion through which the roll is introduced into the accommodating portion, and a processing portion that processes the continuous sheet drawn out from the roll. A guide portion is movable between a first position in which the guide portion extends parallel to the center axis of the roll and guides the path of the drawn-out continuous sheet so that the drawing-out angle thereof is an acute angle, and a second position in which the guide portion extends transverse to the center axis of the roll. A guide portion actuator moves the guide portion to the first position in conjunction with movement of the door portion to the closed position and moves the guide portion to the second position in conjunction with movement of the door portion to the open position. |
| US07832679B2 |
Sheet material dispenser with perforation sensor and method
A dispenser for dispensing sheet material including a plurality of spaced perforations may include a housing defining an interior for accommodating a source of the sheet material, and an outlet through which the sheet material may be dispensed. The device may also include a perforation sensor configured to sense perforations in the sheet material, disposed in the interior of the housing. The perforation sensor may include at least one light receptor, and at least a portion of the perforation sensor may be positioned in the housing to contact sheet material traveling from the source to the outlet, thereby spreading perforations in the sheet material. |
| US07832677B2 |
Method and an apparatus for controlling a nip profile of a reeling nip
A method and an apparatus for controlling the cross-directional nip profile of a reeling nip in a reeler, in which the reeling nip is arranged by means of a reeling core or a growing machine reel and at least one loop of an endless supporting member continuous in the direction of the axis of the reeling core. To control the cross-directional nip profile of the reeling nip, variables proportional to the tension of the supporting member are measured, cross-directional tension profile of the supporting member is determined on the basis of said variables, and further, a cross-directional nip profile of the reeling nip is determined, said nip profile being controlled by adjusting the determined cross-directional tension profile of the supporting member. |
| US07832676B2 |
Rewinding machine, for the production of logs of web material and logs obtained
The rewinding machine includes a winding system and a path for feeding a web material towards said the winding system. Along the feed path at least one suction member is positioned to temporarily obstruct feeding of the web material and cause interruption thereof at the end of winding of each log. |
| US07832675B2 |
Method and apparatus for tensile testing and rethreading optical fiber during fiber draw
A method and apparatus for automatic threading and winding of optical fiber onto various components in a fiber draw system, as well as methods and apparatus for conducting online tensile screening of optical fiber at high speeds. In a preferred embodiment, the fiber is tensile tested during fiber draw and wound directly onto a shipping spool to be shipped to a customer. The tensile stress can be imparted to the fiber during the draw process by feeding the fiber through a screener capstan, which works in conjunction with another capstan to impart the desired tensile stress to the fiber during the draw process. Another aspect is a method and apparatus for threading or rethreading of a moving length of fiber through a fiber draw or fiber testing process, in which fiber is wound onto a spool, comprising activating an aspirator to obtain the fiber at a first location and moving said aspirator in at least two dimensions to thereby move the fiber to a second location and thread the fiber through or onto at least one component in the fiber draw or testing process. |
| US07832674B2 |
Tape cartridge
A tape cartridge has a tape housing, first and second reel member cooperate with each other to constitute a reel around which a tape is wound, a connecting and biasing member connecting between the first and second, and first and second engaging means. The first engaging means is provided on an inner surface of the lower wall. The second engaging means is provided on a lower surface of the second reel member. This arrangement allows that the second engaging means can engage with the first engaging means due to a biasing force caused by the connecting and biasing member to prevent a rotation of the second reel member and can disengage from the first engaging means when the drive shaft accesses the second reel member through the opening and forces the second reel member toward the first reel member against the biasing force of the connecting and biasing member. |
| US07832667B2 |
Comminution device
A shredding device, consisting of at least one shredding roll that is rotatably mounted in a machine frame, at least one shredding instrument that is mounted on the roll, at least one opposing blade that co-operates with the shredding instrument(s) and at least one screen for the shredded product. The housing of the screen at least partially surrounding the shredding roll. The screen can be displaced in relation to the machine frame and/or the shredding roll. |
| US07832665B2 |
Tension adjustment gauge system and method for ball and ring coal pulverizer
A tension adjustment gauge system and method for a ball and ring coal pulverizer is provided that includes a housing, a stationary top grinding ring within the housing, a rotating lower grinding ring within the housing, a plurality of grinding balls between the top grinding ring and the lower grinding ring, an adjustable loading system for applying a compressive force exerted on the top grinding ring and grinding balls against the lower grinding ring. The adjustable loading system includes a single hydraulic assembly mounted on the upper portion of the housing, a gauge mounted to the hydraulic assembly for determining linear movement of a piston of the hydraulic assembly, a plurality of threaded rods mounted to the upper portion of the housing capable of being manually adjusted. The movement of the piston corresponds to an equal distance of movement of a spring gap between an upper and lower portion of the compression spring, such that the gauge indicates the change in the spring gap by moving the piston. The tension adjustment gauge system is more efficient and less time consuming to perform tension adjustments to the ball and ring coal pulverizer. |
| US07832662B2 |
Shower head
Disclosed is a shower head comprising a housing-type first part (T1) inside which a water duct extends. One end of said water duct communicates with a water inlet. The first part (T1) is connected to a second part (T2) that is embodied as a discharging element. The receiving space of the discharging element communicates with the other end of the water duct in at least one mode of operation of the shower head. In said mode of operation, the external edge of the second part (T2) forms an overflow edge in one region, via which water can flow off. The second part (T2) forming the discharging element is composed of a top portion and a bottom portion, between which an interior space is located that communicates with the second end of the water duct in a second mode of operation of the shower head. A plurality of nozzle-type discharge ports (A2) are arranged in the bottom portion of the second part (T2). The inventive shower head is inexpensive to produce while being able to alternatively or cumulatively generate a water curtain discharged via the overflow edge and/or a plurality of individual shower jets discharged through the nozzle-type discharge ports (A2). |
| US07832659B1 |
Riser assembly for use with fluid sprinkler
The invention is riser assembly for use with a fluid dispenser particularly a sprinkler. The assembly includes: (1) a container partially circumscribing a reservoir for containing a pressurized fluid, the container having a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet disposed therethrough, and (2) a conduit circumscribing a channel occupiable by a signal carrier, the conduit including an intermediate conduit portion disposed within the reservoir, a first conduit portion disposed through the container to a signal carrier entry area outside the container and a second conduit portion disposed through the container to a signal carrier exit area outside the container. The assembly may include a cover connectable to the container, the cover having an aperture for containing the fluid dispenser disposed therethrough, a protective cavity being formed between the cover and the container. |
| US07832658B2 |
Liquid repellent structure, method of producing the same, liquid ejection head and protective film
The liquid repellent structure includes a support, and a honeycomb-patterned film and a coating film on the honeycomb-patterned film or a liquid repellent film. The method of producing the structure applies a solution of an organic compound in an organic solvent onto the support, places the support in an atmosphere containing water vapor to form water droplets on a surface of the solution film, evaporates the organic solvent and the droplets to form the honeycomb-patterned film, and forms the coating film made of a fluorine-containing material on a surface of the honeycomb-patterned film or etches the honeycomb-patterned film to form a second honeycomb-patterned film. The liquid ejection head includes an ejection substrate having the liquid repellent structure. The protective film includes a support base and the liquid repellent structure. |
| US07832656B2 |
Fluid injector and method for manufacturing a fluid injector
A fluid injector has a housing, a valve body and an actuator unit inserted into the housing. The valve body has a cartridge with a recess that takes in a needle. The valve body further has a hollow body arranged in a fixed position to the needle and forming a first spring rest. The valve body further has a valve cap, which takes in the cartridge and forms a second spring rest. A return spring rests on the first spring rest and on the second spring rest. The valve cap, the housing and the cartridge are formed such, that before the valve cap and the housing and the valve cap and cartridge are permanently fixed to each other the valve cap is moveable relative to the housing and the cartridge while the housing and the cartridge stay in a fixed position relative to each other. |
| US07832651B2 |
Hydraulically controlled thermostatic mixing valve
A fluid mixing valve for producing a mixed fluid stream from first and second inlet fluid streams having different, varying temperatures, and having different, varying pressures, the mixed fluid stream having a substantially stable, preselected temperature of a magnitude between the temperatures of the first and second inlet fluid streams, the fluid mixing valve including a housing and a mixing regulation assembly disposed within the housing. The invention also provides a method for producing a mixed fluid stream from first and second inlet fluid streams having different, varying temperatures, and having different, varying pressures, the mixed fluid stream having a substantially stable, preselected temperature of a magnitude between the temperatures of the first and second fluid streams. |
| US07832650B2 |
Hot water-water mixing faucet
A hot water-water mixing faucet holds a control valve body in a balanced position between a bias spring and a temperature-sensitive coil spring. An adjusting screw 6a supports the bias spring in an axial direction to change setting of the supporting position of the bias spring, and a rear end side of the bias spring is supported by a supporting member which is formed separately from the adjusting screw. The supporting member is slidably inserted in the axial direction into a through-hole provided on the adjusting screw and is connected detachably to the adjusting screw by an abutting section provided in an area protruding from the through-hole toward the bias spring side. A lifting spring biases the supporting member to pull the supporting member back toward the side opposite to the bias spring to the adjusting screw 6a. |
| US07832646B1 |
Universal contactless gateway for point of sale terminal
Gateway for contactless purchase transactions identifies plural transaction cards held by a customer at a point of sale terminal and loads account information into a memory. The customer's payment options are presented and a selection is received through a user interface. Account information associated with the selected card is forwarded to the point of sale terminal for use in the purchase transaction. The memory is cleared of the account data in advance of a next purchase transaction. Optionally, payment options can be displayed concurrently for selection, and one or more of the payment options can be highlighted to encourage its selection, and other messages, offers, and incentives can be displayed to the customer. |
| US07832635B2 |
Controller, information storage device, control method, information storage method, control program, and computer-readable storage medium
A controller according to the present invention is a controller for controlling a digital multifunctional device which performs job process operation including at least one of image reading operation and image forming operation. The controller includes: a user information acquiring section for acquiring user information from an outside; a wireless tag information acquiring section for acquiring information stored in a wireless tag attached to a book; an owner information judging section for judging whether owner information indicating an owner of the book is included or not in the information acquired by the wireless information acquiring section; and an operation allowance section for comparing the owner information with the user information when the owner information is included, so as to allow the job process operation when the owner information is identical with the user information and so as not to allow the job process operation when the user information is not included. As a result, it is possible to prevent illegal image formation and illegal image reading. |
| US07832634B1 |
Customer care intelligent routing
A system is provided for customer care intelligent routing. The system includes a mobile device and a server. The mobile device includes a transaction component and an error manager. The error manager determines that an error occurred during a point-of-sale transaction involving the transaction component and promotes the transmitting of transaction data to the server. The server determines a provider related to the error, and promotes the routing of the transaction data to the related provider. |
| US07832633B2 |
System for providing wedding management
A system including a terminal; and a network configured to communicatively couple with the terminal, the network including a database configured to store information concerning the user and a wedding card, and a server configured to provide web services that include receiving personal information concerning a user, determining whether to authorize the user based on the personal information, granting a wedding card to the user based on the determination to authorize the user, wherein the wedding card is associated with an upcoming wedding of the user, and providing access to a website for the user, wherein the website provides a wedding management system assisting the user in planning the upcoming wedding. |
| US07832631B2 |
Method of reading coded records including magnetic indicia on checks deposited in an automated banking machine
A system for sensing coded records and structures for sensing coded records are used to sense sheets including notes and checks. An automated banking machine includes a deposit accepting device. The deposit accepting device is operative to receive a stack of sheets and to separate each sheet from the stack through operation of a picker. Each sheet is aligned with the sheet path and analyzed by analysis devices including at least one magnetic read head, an imager and/or a validation device. Sheets determined not to have at least one property of a genuine sheet are returned to a user of the machine. Sheets determined to have at least one property of genuine sheets are processed and stored in the machine. |
| US07832629B1 |
Automated banking machine that allows servicer to view front customer area through rear service display
An automatic banking machine includes a card reader for reading user cards, and a cash dispenser. A movable camera is positionable within the ATM housing. The automated banking machine carries out transactions related to user accounts based on information read from cards. Service personnel are enabled to direct the camera toward regions of machine components while conducting service activities that are not directly visible by a servicer. A camera assembly includes a microphone to sense sounds associated with machine components during test operations. The generated data may be used by an on-site servicer, or sent to an entity at a remote location. The visual images may be used to enhance diagnostic and servicing capabilities. |
| US07832622B2 |
Side handles for a carton
A carton includes a plurality of panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels includes a first panel, and at least one end flap is foldably connected to the first panel. The end flap can include a handle opening and a handle panel adjacent to the handle opening. A reinforcement panel is in an overlapping relationship with at least a portion of the handle panel. The reinforcement panel may be adhered to the handle panel. The reinforcement panel can be foldably connected to an edge of the handle panel that is distant from the handle opening. |
| US07832618B2 |
Termination bonding
Disclosed are methodologies for producing lead type electrical components. Components are placed in a lead frame with termination paste applied to selected portions of the component. Upon firing of the assembled lead frame and electrical components, the electrical components are concurrently terminated, and provided with strongly secured leads. |
| US07832613B2 |
Friction stir welding system
A system, in certain embodiments, includes a backing plate, a tungsten-based member disposed along the backing plate, wherein the tungsten-based member defines a welding work surface, and the tungsten-based member comprises curved grooves configured to secure the tungsten-based member to the backing plate. The system also includes a drive. The system includes a pin tool movable by the drive to create friction along one or more workpieces disposed on the welding work surface, wherein the frictional heating and mechanical stirring is configured to create a stir weld along the one or more workpieces. The system, in some embodiments, also may include a backing plate comprising liquid passages and gas passages and a tungsten-based member disposed along the backing plate, wherein the tungsten-based member defines a welding work surface. |
| US07832610B2 |
Fastener driving tool having impact buffering mechanism
A fastener driving tool includes a housing, a motor, a plunger, a spring, a power transmission mechanism, and an impact buffering portion. The motor is provided in the housing. The plunger is provided in the housing and impacts a fastener in one direction. The spring urges the plunger in the one direction. The power transmission mechanism connects the motor and the plunger for moving the plunger in another direction opposite to the one direction against an urging force of the spring. The impact buffering portion is provided in one of the power transmission mechanism and the plunger. |
| US07832606B2 |
Belt clip for detachably fixing cellular phone
A belt clip for detachably fixing a cellular phone is disclosed, which comprises a body which has an accommodating part provided in the interior of the same and having an opened upper side, and a guide groove provided at a front side of the same for guiding accommodating into the accommodating part; and at least one stopper which is integrally formed at an inner side of the body and has a certain elastic force for preventing an escape of the accommodated engaging protrusion. It is possible to easily and reliably engage and disengage the cellular phone or the cellular phone casing to/from the belt clip, and the construction is simple. Since springs are not used in the present invention as compared to the conventional art, the manufacturing cost is not high, and a reliable and cheap belt clip for cellular phone can be manufactured. |
| US07832605B2 |
Watch band construction
A strap-type watch band construction is fabricated from a blank. The blank includes three sections. A first section is folded over forming a double layer portion that is stitched and secures a buckle and a keeper and supports a watch casing, which is preferably slidably supported thereon. A second section is a single layer of the blank, extends from the first section, and includes apertures therethrough for receiving the buckle. A third section extends from the second section and is folded over to form a tip portion. The third section improves gripping and facilitates insertion of the tip portion through the buckle and the keeper. The single layer construction of the second section facilitates putting the watch band construction on the wrist as it is flexible and tends to form around the wrist. |
| US07832600B2 |
Twist tops
In another aspect the invention is a (drink bottle or container) closure assembly as a unit having an occlusion region providing first component, the first component being adapted for a closing engagement with a complementary bottle or container, and having a liquid passageway to be open from the bottle or container to an outlet below at least part of the occlusion region, as a second component, a spout or top with a dispensing outlet capable of being occluded by the occlusion region to provide a substantially liquid tight-environment from an engaged liquid bearing bottle or container unless the second component rises from its dispensing outlet occluding condition, and a third component, rotation of which controls the rise and fall of the second component relative to the occlusion region. |
| US07832598B2 |
Bulk foodstuff dispenser
A bulk foodstuff dispenser for dispensing predetermined amounts of foodstuff from a hopper. An auger is driven by a handle capable of movement in two directions, while a clutch allows movement of the auger in only one direction. The forward movement of the handle causes the auger to rotate and move foodstuff forward to be dispensed. The forward movement of the handle is predetermined by setting a stopper, thereby regulating the amount of rotation of the auger and thus determining the portion of foodstuff to be dispensed. A spring returns the handle to its at rest position, so that the dispensing process may be repeated from the same handle position. Gears between the handle and the auger allow the handle to be pulled in a more ergonomically sound way. |
| US07832596B2 |
Tapping rod
A tapping rod (2) with a beverage valve (16), a gas valve (14) cooperating therewith, and a collar (24), while in or on the collar a connecting device (26) is fitted, which connecting device comprises a pressure body (30) for opening the beverage valve (16) and the gas valve (14), wherein: the pressure body (30) comprise or defines at least one first beverage channel (50) for bringing, with the beverage valve in open position, the inner space of a keg, in particular a riser of the taping rod, into fluid communication with a beverage dispensing line; the pressure body comprises or defines at least one gas channel (48) for bringing, with the gas valve in open position, the inner space of the keg into fluid communication with a gas supply line. |
| US07832590B2 |
Inserts for multiple component containers
An insert for a multiple component container includes a reservoir with an opening defined by a peripheral edge which, in use, is connected to a sealing element (20). In use, the reservoir and the sealing element define a substantially sealed space. The reservoir includes a stationary portion (2) and a movable portion (4), which is connected to the stationary portion and is movable with respect thereto by the action of gas pressure within the reservoir. A discharge opening (6) is formed in the movable portion (4) and a gas leakage path is provided in the reservoir wall. A valve member (14) is connected to the stationary portion (2) and cooperates with the discharge opening (6) and substantially seals it. The application of a greater gas pressure to the interior of the reservoir than to its exterior results in movement of the movable portion (4) away from the stationary portion (2) and thus in the valve member (14) moving out of sealing contact with the discharge opening (6). |
| US07832589B2 |
Reclosable metal container
A reclosable metal container in the style of a bottle-shaped can has a conventional can body of steel or aluminum to which a metal neck component is seamed. A sleeve of plastics fits over the neck component and a detent inside the sleeve clips it onto the seam. The upper edge of the sleeve is fixed in place by a curl on the upper edge of the neck component. By using a separate neck component and hiding the seam under a sleeve, conventional sizes and material gauges can be used for the can body. Thicker material may be used for the neck component in order to withstand necking forces. Threads for closing the container may be provided either on the sleeve or, in an embodiment where the sleeve is simply used to cover the seam, on a cylindrical part of the neck component itself. |
| US07832586B2 |
Multi-compartment container system
A food container system that comprises a tray member that is the primary storage container, a first lid member that is molded to comprise a plurality of recesses of either similar or varying sizes to house various foodstuffs, and optionally a third lid member. When assembled, the foodstuff in the first lid member may be retained by a foil that adheres to the mouths of the recesses or the optional third lid member which may be formed to snugly fit over the recesses of the first lid member. The foodstuffs may be mixed in any combination desired. Embodiments of the invention will include for the tray member that may be releaseably attached to either the first or second lid member via a snap-fit grip mechanism; additionally, the first and second lid members may be releaseably attached to each other in a similar manner. The utility of the container system is magnified through the multi-compartmentalized lid member. |
| US07832585B2 |
Nine container per tray packaging configuration and method for enhanced cooling of produce
The invention encompasses methods and systems loading trays with nine packaging containers. First and second cutouts are arranged on opposite ends of the tray and an approximate dimension of about 16 inches by about 20 inches. Each container has a lid connected to a body with a hinge and securable using latches. The closed lid defines at least two horizontal ventilation slots between the lid and body and at opposite ends of the container. Each container holding about 1 lb of contents with substantially vertical sidewalls. The nine containers are arranged in the tray in three columns of three containers aligning the ventilation slots of the containers with ventilation slots of other containers as well as with the tray ventilation cutouts. |
| US07832582B2 |
Aseptic structural rib for plastic containers
A plastic container includes a neck with an opening, a bell portion surrounding the neck, a body portion including at least one “m”-shaped horizontal rib, and a base where the body portion is located between the bell portion and the base. |
| US07832580B2 |
Tamper evident container seal with integral pull opener
A tamper evident container closure seal with an integral pull opener is constructed from one or more layers of frangible sheet material adhesively bonded to one or more layers of strengthening sheet material. The one or more strengthening layers each contain one or more duplicate void configurations that form a weak area in the multi layered seal only in the area of the void configuration. When a consumer forces a finger into the seal when bonded to the rim of a container the applied pressure forces the seal to break open and tear only in the weaker area of the void configuration while the peripheral portion of the seal remains bonded to the container rim. The broken open center portion of the seal then forms a pull tab that can be partially connected which allows the pull tab to be lifted back out and pulled from the container. |
| US07832571B2 |
Shelving system
A shelving system includes first and second side frames, each of said side frames having at least one upwardly extending prong; a shelf frame having at least two connector sections, wherein each of said connector sections is in communication with one of said side frames; and wherein each connector section defines a vertical hole therein to receive one of said upwardly extending prongs. |
| US07832566B2 |
Method and apparatus for separating and concentrating a component from a multi-component material including macroparticles
An apparatus that allows for separating and collecting a fraction of a sample. The apparatus, when used with a centrifuge, allows for the creation of at least three fractions in the apparatus. It also provides for a new method of extracting the buffy coat phase from a whole blood sample and mesenchymal stem cells from bone reaming material. A buoy system that may include a first buoy portion and a second buoy member operably interconnected may be used to form at least three fractions from a sample during a substantially single centrifugation process. Therefore, the separation of various fractions may be substantially quick and efficient. |
| US07832562B2 |
Apparatus for inflating and sealing air-filled packing cushions
A machine which inflates and seals pillows in packaging is compact in overall size, can be conveniently operated to produce varied lengths of strips of inflated pillow-type packaging as needed, can begin production of inflated pillow-type strip packaging immediately after being held out of a production cycle for some period of time, and applies a heated sealing element directly to and in sliding contact with a web of film to securely seal the inlet port of an inflated pillow while the pillow is under pressure and as the web of film is continuously and uninterruptedly advanced through the machine. |
| US07832559B1 |
Nested rolled sheet material packages
Nested rolled sheet material packages have multiple rolls of sheet material each with unique internal and external diameters and nested and held in a telescoping arrangement by a package fixture which fits within a portion of each roll and which is contacted by an end of each roll so that a portion of each roll is visible. The package fixture may be generally planar, cylindrical or conical, and may further include steps for contact with ends of each of the rolls. |
| US07832555B2 |
Apparatus for assisting in the changing of diapers
The apparatus includes a first compartment for storing and heating baby wipes, a second compartment for storing plastic bags for use as dirty diaper bags, a first fluid receptacle for holding and dispensing hand-lotion, a second fluid receptacle for holding and dispensing anti-bacterial lotion, and a tube receiving and squeezing mechanism that can hold one of a variety of tubes and that can squeeze cream such as diaper rash ointment from the tube. |
| US07832554B2 |
Multi-use carrier
A single unit cardboard carrier is transformed from a collapsed state into an expanded multi-use carrier with a minimum of assembly actions. A preferred embodiment of the multi-use carrier has a central chamber, a plurality of vessel apertures located around the centered chamber, and has a handle spanning across the chamber. |
| US07832551B2 |
Contact lens package and storage case, holder, and system and method of making and using
A contact lens package that is reusable as a case to store a contact lens between uses includes a lid, a base, one or more receptacles for a contact lens case, and a time keeping device. The time keeping device comprises an indicator for each one or more receptacles that indicates a period of time that has elapsed since the contact lens case currently in the receptacle was placed therein. When the period of time has expired, the indicator denotes a need to discard both the contact lens case and a contact lens associated with the contact lens case. |
| US07832550B2 |
Reactive gases with concentrations of increased stability and processes for manufacturing same
Methods of passivating a metal surface are described, the methods comprising the steps of exposing the metal surface to a silicon-containing passivation material, evacuating the metal surface, exposing the treated surface to a gas composition, having a concentration of reactive gas that is greater than an intended reactive gas concentration of gas to be transported by the metal surface, evacuating the metal surface to remove substantially all of the gas composition to enable maintenance of an increased shelf-life, low concentration reactive gas at an intended concentration, and exposing the metal surface to the reactive gas at the intended reactive gas concentration. Manufactured products, high stability fluids, and methods of making same are also described. |
| US07832542B2 |
Reverse input prevent clutch bearing assembly
A reverse input prevention clutch bearing assembly comprises a first rotational member and a second rotational member which are arranged on a coaxial line and has orbit surfaces with different radii and a plurality of rolling members between the two orbit surfaces. The assembly also has a cage which supports the rolling members, and a distinguished wedge ring assembly which allows or does not allow the rolling members to rotate based on the change of the rotational direction gap between the first rotational member and the control member and the rotational direction of the control member. |
| US07832537B2 |
Dual clutch arrangement
A dual clutch arrangement with an input shaft, with a first friction clutch, and with a second friction clutch. The input element of the first friction clutch is connected to the input shaft and the output element thereof is connected to a first output shaft. The input element of the second friction clutch is connected to the input shaft and the output element thereof is connected to a second output shaft. The output shafts are connectable to corresponding input shafts of a dual clutch transmission. An electric machine is connected to the first output shaft. The electric machine is arranged coaxially with the first friction clutch. |
| US07832534B2 |
Device for transmitting electrical energy from the track to the vehicle of a magnetic levitation railway
A device for transmitting electrical energy from the track (2, 3) to the vehicle (1) of a magnetic leviation railway is described. According to the invention a contactless operating device is provided in that the track (2, 3) has mounted thereon at least one primary line (44) connected to a voltage source (46) and being designed as an emitting coil and in that the vehicle (1) has mounted thereon at least one pick-up coil (47) applied to its magnet back box (15). |
| US07832517B2 |
Folding electric bicycle with wheeled storage arrangement
A folding electric bicycle in one embodiment includes a front case comprising a door and two auxiliary wheels; a pivotal head tube; two handlebars; a swivel fork telescopically connected to the head tube; a front wheel; a drive mechanism comprising a folding frame, a front chain wheel, two pedals, a rear bracket, a rear wheel, first and second rear chain wheels, and a main drive chain rotatably fitted around the front chain wheel and the first rear chain wheel; a detachable seat assembly; a battery pack; an electric motor for rotating the rear wheel; and a driven wheel interconnecting the electric motor and the second rear chain wheel. For collapsing the bicycle, a driver detaches the seat assembly, folds the frame, places the frame, the seat assembly, and the rear wheel in the case, partially disposes the front wheel in the case, and closes the door. |
| US07832515B2 |
Wheelchair comprising a remote control
A wheelchair having a remote controlled electric drive system so that the user is able to move the wheelchair away or retrieve it without the assistance of another person. The electric drive system includes multiple safety features for precluding hazardous situations that result from accidentally or unintentionally setting the drive system in motion while the wheelchair is occupied. |
| US07832513B2 |
Vehicular electrical system and control method therefor
A vehicular electrical system for a hybrid electric vehicle provides a high voltage electrical system having a high power electrical energy storage device (HPD) and a power inverter that cooperate to provide power to a hybrid electric vehicle propulsion system; and a low voltage electrical system having a low voltage power source, at least one accessory power load, and a control switch that toggles between an opened and a closed position to control the flow of current flowing between the low voltage power source and the HPD. A method of using the vehicular electrical system provides the step of using the HPD and power inverter to provide power to the electric vehicle propulsion system; and opening a control switch to isolate the low voltage system from the high voltage system and closing a control switch to charge the HPD. |
| US07832507B2 |
Electrical system, hybrid vehicle and method of controlling hybrid vehicle
During the communication with a house through an electric power line, a control device determines whether an engine is operating or not. If it is determined that the engine is operating, the control device stops the engine and a motor generator to stop the electric power generation by the motor generator using the output of the engine. |
| US07832504B2 |
Exhaust valve and bit assembly for down-hole percussive drills
A bit assembly is for a percussive drill that includes a casing with an interior chamber and includes a bit connectable with the casing and having a longitudinal bore and an axis through the bore. The bore has a retainer portion with one or more generally conical inner surfaces extending circumferentially about and facing generally toward the axis. A generally cylindrical valve has a longitudinal passage with an inlet fluidly connectable with the casing chamber and an outlet fluidly connectable with the bit central bore and an axis through the passage. An engagement portion with at least one generally conical outer surface extends circumferentially about and faces generally away from the valve axis. The valve engagement portion is disposable within the bit bore retainer portion such that the valve conical outer surface is disposed within and against the bit conical inner surface to retain the valve coupled with the bit. |
| US07832499B2 |
Electric tool with closable air ports
An electric tool includes a housing; a motor that is housed in the housing; and a tip tool. A rotation transmission mechanism transmits a rotation of the motor to the tip tool. An air inlet is disposed on the housing to introduce a cooling air for cooling the motor from an outside of the housing and an air outlet is disposed to discharge the cooling air. A cover is slidable along an inner wall or an outer wall of the housing and is movable in a first position where the air inlet and the air outlet are opened and a second position where the air inlet and the air outlet are closed. |
| US07832498B2 |
Impact tool
It is an object of the invention to provide a technique for further improving the vibration reducing performance in an impact tool. A representative impact tool includes a tool body, a cylinder housed within the tool body, a dynamic vibration reducer having a weight that linearly moves under a biasing force of an elastic element, wherein the dynamic vibration reducer reduces vibration of the tool body during hammering operation by the movement of the weight in the axial direction of the tool bit, and a mechanical vibration mechanism that actively drives the weight by applying external force other than vibration of the tool body to the weight via the elastic element. The weight and the elastic element are disposed on the axis of the tool bit and between an inner wall surface of the tool body and an outer wall surface of the cylinder in such a manner as to cover at least part of the outer wall surface of the cylinder in the circumferential direction. |
| US07832497B2 |
Shock dampening post driver
A post driver having rotational handles and a dampening device adapted to isolate the hands and arms of the user from shock. |
| US07832496B2 |
Deep-hole boring machine and deep-hole boring guide device
A deep-hole boring machine (100) includes a base (11) to be fitted to an upper face of a floor, a pillar (14), a fixing mechanism (40), a guide member (15), a rotary tool (17), a tool rotation driving section (16), a rising/descending mechanism (50), a guide base (60) and a tool guide mechanism (30). The deep-hole boring machine 100 can be used to bore a vertical hole or an inclined hole in a concrete in a construction site. |
| US07832495B2 |
Tool retention apparatus and method
A tool assembly provided with a housing defining a chamber, and a reciprocating work tool arranged in the chamber, is disclosed. A tool retention member has an aperture through which the work tool extends. Engaging structure including mutually engaging protrusions on the housing and the tool retention member is configured to permit engagement of the tool retention member with the housing by relative rotation of the tool retention member and the housing. Retention structure on the work tool is configured to prevent removal of the work tool from the housing when the tool retention member is engaged with the housing. A locking structure is configured to lock the tool retention member and housing against relative rotation. A prestressing structure is located between the protrusions on the housing and a portion of the tool retention member and is configured to urge the tool retention member away from the housing. |
| US07832492B1 |
Portable fire fighting apparatus and method
The present invention is a portable fire suppression apparatus. The fire suppression apparatus comprises a conduit with an open end and a closed end. In some embodiments of this invention the conduit may be a combination of several similar conduits connected with couplings with the last conduit having a closed end. The conduit has a plurality of apertures disposed upon its length at periodic intervals. When a fire suppression medium is forced throughout the conduit, the medium streams from each apertures and drenches the surrounding area and provides a fire break and air borne spark suppression capability. In the preferred embodiment, this apparatus also includes a means for stabilizing the conduit against rotation when high pressure medium is forced through. |
| US07832490B2 |
Compositions containing shape-conforming materials and nanoparticles to enhance elastic modulus
A composition, apparatus and method of use of the composition and apparatus are described. In one aspect, a composition may include a shape-conforming material and nanoparticles sufficient to provide an elastic modulus of the composition that is greater than the elastic modulus of the shape-conforming material. A method of deploying an apparatus using such a composition may include placing the apparatus at a suitable location in a wellbore and activating the composition to deploy the apparatus in the wellbore. |
| US07832489B2 |
Methods and systems for completing a well with fluid tight lower completion
An apparatus and method for completing a well. The apparatus can include a packer located downhole of a sand control sliding sleeve extension device to create an upper annulus and a lower annulus. The apparatus can also include a formation isolation well control barrier device located downhole of both the sand control sliding sleeve extension and the packer to create a lower tubular region an upper tubular region. |
| US07832488B2 |
Anchoring system and method
An anchoring module capable of being secured within a structure includes at least one compliant ring configured to radially expand and an expandable device positioned within the compliant ring to expand the compliant ring from a relaxed state to interface with the structure. The anchoring module is part of a modular system used to harvest fluid, such as oil or natural gas from a structure, such as a pipe or well. Another module of the system, sometimes referred to as a support or back-up module, employs an expandable surface that is capable of expanding to the diameter of the interior of the borehole. These modules may be combined in a variety of configurations to support a sealing element, such as an inflatable sealing element. The self-conforming nature of the system obviates the need for prior knowledge of the structure or complex sensor systems to chart the structure. The anchoring module can also be utilized in a crawling system to convey tools inside a structure. |
| US07832487B2 |
Casing stabbing guide
A stabbing guide connects to a casing collar during makeup. The stabbing guide has a housing with a lower portion with a cylindrical interior and an upper portion with a conical interior. Upper and lower shoulders are located in the cylindrical interior, defining an annular recess between the shoulders. Each of the shoulders has an inner diameter smaller than an outer diameter of the casing collar. The housing is formed in separate segments and secured around the casing collar by a clamp. |
| US07832482B2 |
Producing resources using steam injection
A system for producing fluids from a subterranean zone comprises a tubing string disposed in a well bore, the tubing string adapted to communicate fluids from the subterranean zone to a ground surface. A downhole fluid lift system is operable to lift fluids towards the ground surface. A downhole fluid heater is disposed in the well bore and is operable to vaporize a liquid in the well bore. A seal between the downhole fluid lift system and the downhole fluid heater is operable to isolate a portion of the well bore containing the downhole fluid lift system from a portion of the well bore containing the downhole fluid heater. A method comprises: disposing a tubing string in a well bore; generating vapor in the well bore; and lifting fluids from the subterranean zone to a ground surface through the tubing string. |
| US07832480B1 |
Apparatus and method for extracting a tubular string from a bore hole
A tubular extraction system for use in a plug and abandonment process and may include a structural mounting for adaptation to a well head, various mountings may be used to provide a structure for attaching actuators for griping the tubular string, indenting or crimping the tubular and shearing the tubular string. The system further use a fork supported on a lifting apparatus such as a top drive unit, draw works or portable crane, the fork is inserted within the mounting structure of the system to engage the crimped or indented portion of the tubular section being extracted and thus allow removal of sequentially sheared sections of the tubular string. |
| US07832475B2 |
Biogenic methane production enhancement systems
Systems for enhanced in-situ or perhaps even ex-situ biogenic methane production from hydrocarbon-bearing formations (1) including coal seam, oil shale, coal, coal derivates and the like are presented in embodiments such as but not limited to: increasing and perhaps even selection of microbial populations (2), amending CBM water and other microbe-containing media, diminishing sulfate reduction competition, enhancing organic matter concentrations and generation of biogenic methane (10), universally treating hydrocarbon-bearing formations, and introducing amendments (3) to hydrocarbon-bearing formations. |
| US07832474B2 |
Thermal actuator
An embodiment of a system for disconnecting a first element from a second element at a desired position in a wellbore includes a disconnect tool containing an expandable material, the disconnect tool being actuatable from a locked position, wherein the first and the second elements are interconnected, to an unlocked position, wherein the first and the second element are disconnected, upon a determined expansion of the expandable material in response to a temperature at the desired position. |
| US07832470B2 |
Mouse hole support unit with rotatable or stationary operation
The present invention allows for the connection of multiple sections of drill pipe in a mouse hole by securing a given section of pipe in the hole and delivering a rotational force to secure that pipe section to another section of drill pipe placed above it over the mouse hole. In some embodiments, the rotational force may be provided by the support unit of the present invention. In alternative embodiments, the rotational force may be provided by an outside source such as an iron roughneck, with the support unit of the present invention holding the drill pipe section in a stationary position as such force is delivered. The unit then allows the connected pipe sections to be lowered and secured so the process can be repeated to connect multiple sections of drill pipe together in the mouse hole. The multiple sections of drill pipe may then be retrieved as a unit, and attached to the pipe string already being used to drill the well. |
| US07832469B2 |
Device for remotely actuating the safety lock of individual oil pumping apparatus
A device for remotely actuating the safety lock of individual oil pumping apparatuses, (also known as AIB) employed in oil wells for extraction of this fluid. The actuating device or locking device permits an AIB operator to remotely actuate a safety lock for locking the entire movement of the AIB, without the need for the operator to go into an area of the AIB where the safety lock is usually housed. For this purpose the locking device includes an actuator for moving upwardly and downwardly the safety lock. The locking device also includes an indicator for indicating the position of the safety lock. |
| US07832466B2 |
Water supply system
A water supply system includes a main water tank and a sub-tank of smaller dimensions than the main tank for supplying hot and cold water for household use. The sub-tank is surrounded by a tubular coil of refrigerant in contact with the sub-tank, a layer of insulation and an outer wall for maintaining the insulation in place and protecting the tubular coil and sub-tank from being damaged. A water heater is disposed in or below a lower part of the tank and a three-way switch is provided for selecting heating or refrigeration during different seasons of the year. |
| US07832463B2 |
Collecting tank for a multiple-row heat exchanger
A collecting tank for a heat exchanger pertaining to a motor vehicle cooling installation includes a tank element. The tank element includes at least two collecting regions for receiving fluid, the receiving regions being embodied together as a single component and being outwardly sealed by a sealing element, and a bottom for closing the collecting regions. A sealing arrangement is provided between the tank element and the bottom, between two adjacent collecting regions. The sealing arrangement includes exactly one sealing element which, in addition to sealing between the two collecting regions, is used to seal the arrangement towards the outside. The sealing element is preferably arranged in a plane in the collecting tank, especially in a continuous channel. |
| US07832461B2 |
Cooling systems and methods
An exemplary cooling method may comprise thermally coupling a network of cooling lines to each of a plurality of heat exchangers in a cooling system. The method may also comprise providing a first connection from a network of cooling lines to a first fluid source and a second connection from the network of cooling lines to an optional second fluid source. The method may also comprise delivering cooling fluid through the network of cooling lines to each of the plurality of heat exchangers whether the network of cooling lines is connected only to the first fluid source or to both the first and second fluid sources. |
| US07832459B2 |
Methods, tools, and products for molded ordered porous structures
A method of forming a molded porous product is provided. The method comprises injecting a material into a mold to form a molded product, and removing the molded product from the mold. The mold comprising multiple layers of shaping elements extending through a cavity, each layer of shaping elements including multiple shaping elements. The molded product produced after removal from the mold has a porous structure formed by at least some of the shaping elements of the layers of shaping elements. The mold used to make the molded porous product may include a relatively large number of shaping elements within a small area. |
| US07832457B2 |
Molds, downhole tools and methods of forming
Three dimensional printing equipment and techniques may be used in combination with three dimensional design data associated with well drilling equipment and well completion equipment to form molds associated with manufacture of such equipment. For example, such molds may be used to form a bit body or other components associated with a rotary drill bit. For some applications composite or matrix materials may be placed in the mold to form a matrix bit body. Heat transfer characteristics of the mold may be optimized for heating and/or cooling of the matrix materials to provide optimum fracture resistant (toughness) and optimum erosion, abrasion and/or wear resistance for portions of the bit body. Such molds may also be used to form steel bit bodies associated with fixed cutter rotary drill bits and other components associated with a wide variety of well drilling equipment and well completion equipment. |
| US07832451B2 |
Vertically movable door with safety barrier
A vertically moving door of a truck loading dock includes a disconnectable horizontal joint that provides the door with a barrier position, wherein an upper section of the door can be separated from a lower section to create a ventilation area between the two. The ventilation area allows fresh outside air to enter the building, while the lower section remains at its lowermost position for safety and security. More specifically, the lower section serves as a barrier that helps prevent someone or something from accidentally falling through the doorway when a truck is not present at the dock. A lightweight, resilient strap can be attached to the lower section of the door to help protect that section from an otherwise damaging impact. A lattice of straps or a mesh can be installed across the ventilation area to help secure the building against theft. |
| US07832446B2 |
Method and device for manufacturing a composite web on the basis of at least two webs
A device for manufacturing a crosslaid fiber web on the basis of two parallel longitudinal fiber webs and segments of another longitudinal fiber web comprises a fixing table on which the longitudinal fiber webs and the segments come together. Furthermore, the device comprises a pair of high-voltage bars, movably arranged with respect to the fixing table. When a segment is in a correct end position with respect to the longitudinal fiber webs on the fixing table, the pair of high-voltage bars is activated and moved with respect to the segment and the longitudinal fiber webs, wherein the segment and the longitudinal fiber webs are situated between the high-voltage bars. As a consequence, the segment is fixed with respect to the longitudinal fiber webs, before being supplied to another device in order to get definitively connected to the longitudinal fiber webs. |
| US07832444B2 |
Envelope flap closing system
A method and system for closing opened envelopes flaps against the envelope body includes transporting an envelope in a first direction and parking the envelope in a first parked position. An envelope flap closing mechanism is moved to commence the movement of the envelope flap toward said envelope body. The envelope flap is closed against the envelope body while transporting the envelope in a second direction toward a second parked position. The flap closing mechanism may be moveable from a lower position to an upper position. The envelope flap closing system may include a first transport path of travel for envelopes to be moved seriatim in a first direction from an entrance point to an exit point. A moveable flap closing mechanism is mounted along the path of travel for movement between a lower position and an upper position. The flap closing mechanism has an upper guide surface and a lower guide surface The flap closing mechanism upper guide surface provides a guide surface as part of the first path of travel for envelopes being transported in the first direction when said flap closing mechanism is in said lower position. The flap closing mechanism lower guide surface provides a guide surface as part of a second path of travel for envelopes being transported in a second direction when the flap closing mechanism is in the upper position. |
| US07832440B2 |
Machine and method for applying pressure sensitive sample chips to a card
A machine for applying pressure sensitive sample chips to a card includes a linear conveyor for receiving and transporting cards, and at least one sample application station disposed along the conveyor. The sample application station includes a feed roller overlying and spaced from the conveyor for holding a spool containing at least one row of individual pressure sensitive sample chips on a substrate. A plate has an edge immediately overlying and spaced from the conveyor to permit passage of cards beneath the edge. A drive roller is spaced from the feed roller and from the plate for drawing the substrate from the spool on the feed roller over the plate edge to separate the sample chips from the substrate and apply the chips to the cards. A resilient roller preferably is disposed adjacent to the plate edge for pressing the sample chips removed from the substrate onto the cards transported on the conveyor. |
| US07832434B2 |
Automated filling system for bulk liquid
An automated filling system to conduct a filling operation in which a bulk liquid transport vehicle is filled with a bulk liquid and quality assurance tests are performed by a gas analyzer. A programmable logic controller, employed to control the filling operation, is responsive to pressure within a fill line connected to the vehicle and is programmed to determine that there exists sufficient pressure within the vehicle to conduct an initial quality assurance test and that the fill line is properly connected to the fill line, without breaks in its flow integrity. The programmable logic controller also initiates and controls a pressurization process if there is not sufficient pressure to conduct the initial quality assurance test. |
| US07832431B2 |
Valves and pumps
A check valve (10) comprises, a flexible tube (11) having first and second end portions defining an inlet (13) and an outlet (14), respectively, and a rigid valve body (12) surrounding the flexible tube (11). The end portions of the flexible tube are sealingly fixed to the valve body (12) to define an enclosed space (17) between the exterior of the flexible tube and the interior of the valve body. A fixed volume of a substantially incompressible fluid is located in the enclosed space (17). When the pressure at the outlet (14) is greater than the pressure at the inlet (13), the flexible tube is substantially collapsed so as to close the valve or allow severely restricted flow. However when the pressure at the inlet is greater than that at the outlet, some of the fluid is displaced from the inlet area towards the outlet area so that the flexible tube (11) is expanded in the area adjacent the inlet and the tube is substantially open. A pump based on a series of valves having some of the attributes of the check valve is also disclosed, as is a vacuum driven sewer system that incorporates a pinch valve. |
| US07832423B2 |
Valve having a body incorporating a filter
A valve having a body incorporating a filter The disclosure relates to a valve comprising a body defining a duct, a filter member defining filter passages and extending inside the duct, and a valve member mounted to move in the body between a closed position in which it closes the duct, and an open position in which it leaves the duct disengaged, the filter member comprising two filter portions having complementary profiles and secured respectively to the body and to a support element fastened inside the body in such a manner that the filter passages are defined between the facing portions of the complementary profiles. |
| US07832422B2 |
Valve
A valve includes a valve element; a valve seat; a coil spring; and a spring bearing portion. The coil spring, provided between the valve element and the spring bearing portion, presses the valve element toward the valve seat. An effective upper winding end of the coil spring and an effective lower winding end of the coil spring are offset from each other by 180 degrees in a plan view. |
| US07832412B2 |
Surface modified adsorbents and use thereof
A surface-modified adsorbent comprises a reagent on a porous carrier. Preferred porous carriers are adsorbent carbons such as activated carbon, silica gels, aluminas, polyester resins, zeolites or zeolite-like materials, and mixtures thereof. Preferred reagents are 2-hydroxymethylpiperidine (2-HMP) or a 2-HMP analogue. Surface modified adsorbents can be incorporated into cigarettes, preferably in an amount effective to reduce the concentration of one or more constituents of cigarette smoke. |
| US07832410B2 |
Electronic atomization cigarette
The invention relates to an electronic atomization cigarette which only contains nicotine without harmful tar. The electronic atomization cigarette includes a shell and a mouthpiece. The external wall of the shell has an air inlet. An electronic circuit board, a normal pressure cavity, a sensor, a vapor-liquid separator, an atomizer, a liquid-supplying bottle are sequentially provided within the shell, wherein the electronic circuit board comprises an electronic switching circuit and a high frequency generator. A stream passage of the sensor is provided on one side of the sensor, and a negative pressure cavity is provided in the sensor. The atomizer and the liquid-supplying bottle is in contact with each other. An atomization cavity is arranged in the atomizer. A retaining ring for locking the liquid-supplying bottle is provided between one side of the liquid-supplying bottle and the shell, and an aerosol passage is provided on the other side of the liquid-supplying bottle. The air inlet, normal pressure cavity, vapor-liquid separator, atomizer, aerosol passage, gas vent and mouthpiece are sequentially interconnected. |
| US07832409B2 |
Method of inserting an artificial intervertebral disc
A spring member for an artificial intervertebral disc includes a substantially annular body including an axially extended bore therethrough defining a passageway. A seat extends radially inward towards the bore for seating therein a bearing member for adjusting and compensating vertebral disc motion. An engagement member extends radially outwardly from the bore for engaging a housing member and securing the spring member within the housing member. The spring member absorbs compressive loads between the bearing member and the housing member while controlling motion and position of the bearing member. |
| US07832400B2 |
Nasal and oral cannula having two capabilities and method of producing same
A nasal cannula comprising a hollow main body having opposed first and second openings formed therein and the main body defining an internal chamber. A partition divides the internal chamber into first and second flow compartments. A flow passageway of a first nasal prong communicates with the first compartment and a flow passageway of the first mouth piece communicates with the first compartment to define a first flow passageway which communicates with both a first nostril and a mouth of the patient. A flow passageway of a second nasal prong communicates with the second compartment and a flow passageway of the second mouth piece communicates with the first compartment to define a second flow passageway which communicates with both a second nostril and the mouth of the patient. |
| US07832399B2 |
Medication inhaler
A medication inhaler having an inhaler body with a medication container chamber for receiving a medication container and at least one air passage connecting the medication container chamber with external air and a mouthpiece axially engageable with the inhaler body and having a mouthpiece chamber for communication with a patient's respiratory system and a hollow medication delivery needle communicating with the mouthpiece chamber. The medication delivery needle extends toward the medication container chamber and has at least one opening for passing exterior air and medication from an interior space of a medication container in the medication container chamber through the needle and to mouthpiece chamber. The mouthpiece engages with the inhaler body in a first position wherein the needle extends into the medication container chamber short of the medication container in the medication container chamber and in a second position wherein the needle axially traverses the medication container so that the at least one opening in the needle communicates with the at least one air passage and the interior space of the medication container in the medication container chamber. |
| US07832388B1 |
Archery bow system
An archery bow system incorporating a bow riser and dual limbs supporting cams or a cam and wheel mounted for rotation about respective axles. The dual limbs are independently adjustable to correct for cam lean and are individually supported in pockets that incorporate variable limb angle attachments to the bow riser. The limbs extend from the riser to flex. when at full draw, to positions that cause the respective axles to initially travel rearward toward the archer upon release of the bowstring. The limbs are adjustably attached to the riser to permit the limb angle with respect to the riser to be changed. |
| US07832386B2 |
Narrow crossbow with large power stroke
A crossbow may include a main beam; a compound bow assembly mounted to the main beam including a riser and a pair of bow limbs; and a trigger mechanism mounted to the main beam for use in holding a bowstring in a cocked position. The crossbow may include wheels at opposite ends of the bow that operatively receive the bowstring. The wheels may be separated by a wheel distance (WD) when the crossbow is in an un-cocked position. The crossbow may also have a power stroke distance (PD) and the ratio WD/PD may be less than 2.0. The crossbow may include a foot stirrup being integral with the riser, the foot stirrup beginning behind the pair of bow limbs and extending beyond the bow limbs. |
| US07832382B2 |
Chemical heating device for cold environment heating utility use
A strap-like support includes means for removably affixing chemical heating elements to one side of the support and means for removably securing the ends of the support whereby the support can be removably attached to the fuel filter of a diesel engine. Alternatively, the strap-like support component is configured to wrap around a fuel line, fuel pipe, or other conduit. Alternatively, the heating device is devised of a sheet-like support component having means for removably affixing one or more chemical heating elements to one side of the support component and means for removably securing the edges of the support component to a surface whereby the component can be removably attached to the oil pan or fuel tank of an engine or with a self-contained, individual meal product of conventional manufacture. The heating device is temporarily attached to the meal product container to heat the food contents. |
| US07832378B2 |
Device for switching inductive fuel injection valves
Disclosed are a method and a device for more rapidly switching inductive fuel injection valves. According to the invention, the magnetic retaining forces generated by remanence in a bistable valve comprising an opening and closing coil or by eddy currents in a standard valve comprising an opening coil and a closing spring are eliminated with the aid of a negative current that flows through the coil in a direction running counter to the direction of the operating current. Additionally, the magnetic yoke and armature that are used are made of materials having different conductivities in order to be able to close the valve even more quickly. |
| US07832367B2 |
Furnace panel leak detection system
A furnace panel leak monitoring and control system for fluid-cooled panels in high temperature industrial furnaces such as, for example, smelting furnaces, blast furnaces and electric arc furnaces. The system performs at least two and up to four functions simultaneously. At minimum, the system includes one or more temperature sensors received within the body of the panel to monitor temperature within the metal of the panel itself, and pressure sensors installed proximate the inlet and outlet of each panel coolant fluid circuit, which circuits are preferably periodically automatically tested, to check for leaks in the coolant circuits. In addition, the system preferably includes temperature and flow sensors for monitoring the furnace panel coolant circuit(s) for temperature and flow fluctuations, respectively, which may be indicative of leaking cooling circuits. The system triggers visual and/or audible alarms to alert a human operator of an apparent coolant fluid leak situation. |
| US07832366B2 |
Sootblower frame assembly
A sootblower frame particularly adapted for long retracting-type sootblowers for cleaning of internal surfaces of large scale combustion devices. The frame, preferably formed from sheet metal stock, incorporates integrally formed surfaces and configuration features which provide for guiding and movement of the sootblower carriage assembly. The side panels of the frame further provide the surface for the mounting of the drive rack by which the carriage is advanced and retracted along the frame. |
| US07832364B2 |
Heat transfer unit for steam generation and gas preheating
The present invention discloses a heat transfer unit which integrates a boiler and a gas preheater for steam generation and gas preheating. In one embodiment, the heat transfer unit of the present invention may be used in fuel processing applications. In this embodiment, the heat transfer unit may be located downstream of a combustor such as an anode tailgas oxidizer. |
| US07832362B2 |
Lightweight, hollow, reusable, food-dispensing treat toy and combination of food-dispensing treat toy with an enclosing container designed for intellectual stimulation, enrichment and amusement of animals, and reduction of boredom or separation anxiety that may lead to destructive or undesirable behavior in puppies and/or other animals
This invention is directed toward a hollow food dispensing treat toy that can be filled and re-filled with animal food for unfrozen or frozen applications. The treat toy is designed to provide a mental and physical challenge to an animal desiring to lick out the contents of the container. The treat toys can be frozen in a conveniently-sized storage sleeve that fits in the shelf portion of an average freezer, and then removed at desired times. Whether unfrozen or frozen, the treat toys can be either given to the animal directly, or placed inside a larger hollow enclosing container with a hole such that the animal must align the holes in the containers to have easy access to the treat inside. Because of the design of the invention, an animal can remain entertained at length trying to extract all of the treats. |
| US07832361B2 |
System for climbing pets
A system for climbing pets, particularly cats, featuring an expandable rod and an array of wall supports, platforms and accessories. The expandable rod is the only direct connection to a wall while the wall supports are suspended from the expandable rod and the platforms are secured to the wall supports. Accessories such as toys and food/water bowls may be snapped into place on the platform surface via complimentary securing elements. The platforms can be placed at various elevations so that a cat can play, sleep, eat, scratch and avoid other animals in the house in a secure and designated environment. |
| US07832358B2 |
Filter device for aquarium
An aquarium includes a filter housing disposed in a container, the housing includes a number of spaced guide fins extended into the housing and arranged to form a peripheral passage around the guide fins, a filter member engaged in the guide fins, and a water pump attached to the housing for pumping the water into the passage of the housing and for guiding the water to flow through the guide fins and to flow from various directions into the filter member and for allowing the water to be guided to flow through an outer peripheral portion of the filter member and for preventing the water from flowing through only a small portion of the filter member and for preventing the filter member from being quickly blocked by dirt or contaminant. |
| US07832357B2 |
Animal litter box
An animal litter box includes an evacuation container and a hood, the hood having a fixed hood, a movable hood, and a pair of connecting portions. The movable hood is configured to be moved rotatably either outside or inside the fixed hood such that an end edge of the movable hood is proximal to the fixed hood while maintaining a prescribed distance at least one of the fixed hood 31 and the movable hood is provided with a convex restricting portion which prevents a distance between an end edge on at least the one end of the movable hood 32 and the fixed hood 31 from being less than the prescribed distance. |
| US07832355B2 |
Animal feeder
An animal feeder and animal feeding system is provided that utilizes radio frequency identification technology to permit animals selective access to food. The animal feeder includes a universal base containing all of the necessary control electronics including a radio frequency transceiver and antenna. A given number of pre-defined codes are associated with sets of removable dishes and transponders. The transponders are arranged for attachment to an animal. All dishes and transponders in a given set are associated with the same code and can be used interchangeably. The dishes are sized and shaped to be fit into the base, and while a given dish is disposed in the base, the dish communicates or programs the control electronics with the pre-defined code associated with the dish. Therefore, when an animal wearing a transponder from the same set as that dish approaches the animal feeder, the control electronics recognize the animal and open a lid to permit access to the food contained within the dish. |
| US07832354B2 |
Cathode liner with wafer edge gas injection in a plasma reactor chamber
The disclosure concerns a wafer support for use in a plasma reactor chamber, in which the wafer support has a wafer edge gas injector adjacent and surrounding the wafer edge. |
| US07832350B2 |
Lifeboat disengagement system
The present invention provides a system for supporting and releasing a twin fall lifeboat, comprising a pair of hooks releasably engaged with a corresponding pair of lifting links; and a lifeboat release assembly. The lifeboat release assembly includes a release handle, a release arm, an emergency release shaft, a weighted rack, and a pair of flexible cables attached at first ends to the rack and attached at second ends to the hooks. The release handle attaches to the release arm at a pivot point. The release arm includes a wheel disposed within a wheel encasement attached to the weighted rack. The system includes an engaged configuration in which the lifting links are secured by the hooks. The release handle is pulled to release the lifting links from the hooks substantially simultaneously. An emergency ratchet lever engages with the emergency release shaft for releasing the twin fall lifeboat under load. |
| US07832347B2 |
Floatation apparatus and methods for providing a floatation apparatus
A floatation apparatus attachable to an outrigger extending from a side of a boat such as a shell for rowing includes a buoyant member, and at least one releasably attachable member operably attachable to the buoyant member for releasably attaching the floatation apparatus to the outrigger so that the buoyant member is spaced-apart from the surface of the water when the boat is orientated upright. In one embodiment, the buoyant member is a generally triangular-shaped planar member receivable between a triangular-shaped opening defined by a plurality of elongated members of the outrigger and the side of the boat. Also disclosed are methods for aiding a rower of a boat in the event that the boat capsizes, and methods for inhibiting capsizing of a rowing boat having at least one outrigger extending from each side of the rowing boat for supporting a plurality of oarlocks. |
| US07832345B2 |
Crop debris clearing device
An apparatus that cleanly severs and clears crop debris from a planting row or closes a furrow while causing minimal disturbance to the soil. The residue coulter apparatus comprises a pair of flat discs each having a plurality of back swept teeth extending about their periphery. The teeth include a beveled cutting edge on the outer edge of the teeth adapted to sever residue from the field or close a furrow. The discs are oriented substantially vertical to the ground. Two discs are used in combination to clear a pathway for planting seed or for closing a furrow. |
| US07832342B2 |
Process for combusting fuels, in particular waste
A process for combusting fuels, in particular waste, includes reducing the oxygen mass flow of the underfire combustion gas and increasing the oxygen mass flow of the overfire combustion gas in the event of an increase in the reaction rate or combustion intensity. |
| US07832340B2 |
Hopper railcar with automatic individual door system
The door operating system of the present invention can be applied to new railcar or retrofitted to existing railcar designs. The hopper car will have a pair of doors on opposed sides of the center sill which are connected through a door spreader. The pneumatic, individual door operating system is connected to the door spreader through an adjustable spreader fulcrum in which the sliding adjustment may add in a proper connection force or tension between the door operating system and the individual doors. |
| US07832339B2 |
Automatic cable car facility
Automatic cable transport facility along a closed loop line, including vehicles that can be disengaged at a set rate in stations after moving along a disengaged circuit where they are driven at low speed along disembarkation and embarkation platforms. Each station includes an automatic control mechanism able to extract the vehicles from the slow progression in the disengaged circuit, and transfer them to a disembarkation/embarkation point which is assigned to them in order of arrival, the previous vehicle having previously been reintegrated into the slow progression line in the place of the vehicle extracted in accordance with a preset program. A compensation point includes a permanently available spare empty vehicle which can be used to fill an empty space left by a vehicle that has been delayed and stopped at the disembarkation/embarkation point. |
| US07832336B2 |
Method of operating a supercavitating projectile based on velocity constraints
A method for operating a thrust-generating supercavitating projectile involves launching the projectile at a velocity above the minimum required to maintain supercavitating movement, delaying initiation of thrust until the projectile slows to a velocity that is near that minimum velocity, and then applying thrust to maintain the near-minimum velocity until a target is reached. |
| US07832321B1 |
Cutting blade for producing a tapazoidal groove in pavement and its associated method of manufacture
A cutting tooth element for a cutting blade. The cutting tooth element has a body. The body has a forward surface, a rearward surface and a peripheral edge surface that extends from the forward surface to the rearward surface. The peripheral edge surface has a constant width that is equal to the width at the bottom of the groove that is to be cut. The body of each cutting tooth has a thickened area between its forward surface and rearward surface. The thickened area has a maximum width equal to the width at the top of the groove that is to be cut. The body has sloped side surfaces that extend from the thickened area to the forward surface, rearward surface and the peripheral edge surface. The resulting shape of the cutting tooth causes the cutting tooth to retain its cutting profile as it wears. |
| US07832317B2 |
Gage plate alignment mechanism and method for a food slicer
A food slicer is provided having a support member including a base portion and an upstanding portion integrally formed with the base portion. The upstanding portion includes a rotating cutting blade secured thereto for slicing food product and at least one motor positioned within the upstanding portion for rotating the cutting blade. The base portion includes a food product table slidably secured thereto and is movable across the cutting blade for holding product while it is being sliced by the cutting blade. An adjustable gage plate also is provided for determining the thickness of a food product to be sliced by the cutting blade along with an adjustable gage plate alignment mechanism connecting the upstanding portion to the gage plate at an upper portion of the gage plate. |
| US07832313B2 |
Device and method for through-cutting of an extruded ice mass
A device for through-cutting of an extruded ice mass, which has a first knife which is reciprocably arranged in a transverse first plane immediately after the outlet of the nozzle and arranged with a first length of stroke and a second knife which is reciprocably arranged in a plane which is parallel to the first plane and which is arranged immediately below the first knife with respect to the flow direction out of the nozzle, the second knife is arranged with a second stroke length which is smaller than the first stroke length, and a control for producing simultaneous reciprocation of the first and the second knife. Hereby, a shearing is achieved which is more precise and commonly applicable for manufacturing of ice cream portions by an automated production of ice cream products. |
| US07832310B2 |
Torque power tool
A hand-held torque power wrench for tightening and loosening fasteners, the torque power tool has a motor, a housing, at least one handle configured to hold the torque power wrench in a position and to pull a trigger with one hand of an operator, and a safety device operatable by the other hand of the operator, so that when it is operated by the other hand of the operator the torque power wrench is functioning to tighten or loosen the fastener, but when the only one hand of the operator is used for holding the torque power wrench in position and pulling the trigger, the torque power wrench is not functioning to tighten or loosen the fastener. |
| US07832304B2 |
Knob structure of a parking brake apparatus
A knob structure for parking brake apparatus that can prevent a sink mark or a weld mark from being produced at the time of molding, and allows an inexpensive resin material with a good moldability to be adopted. The knob structure includes a rod that is movably disposed on the vehicle body side, and a knob main body that is connected to the nose end side of the rod, wherein the knob main body is made up of a core part that is previously assembled to the nose end side of said rod, and a surface layer part that coats the surface of the core part after assembly with a substantially uniform coating thickness. |
| US07832301B2 |
Rotation mechanism for construction machine and method of measuring backlash in the mechanism
A swing mechanism for a construction machine is provided with a center frame 3 having a pinion insertion hole 3c, an inner race having an internal gear and mounted on a side of an undercarriage, an outer race 1b rotatably arranged surrounding the inner race and provided with the center frame secured thereon by bolts 8a, a pinion maintained in meshing engagement with the internal gear of the inner race, and a pinion drive device. A pin fit-in hole 3d arranged in the center frame 3 such that a knock pin 6 fixed on the outer race 1b is fitted in the pin fit-in hole to position the center frame 3. To arrange the pin fit-in hole 3d in the center frame 3, a pin fit-in hole portion 20 through which the pin fit-in hole 3d is formed is locally arranged such that the pin fit-in hole portion 20 extends toward the pinion insertion hole 3c to have a center of the pin fit-in hole 3d located on a center connection line S. This construction allows to perform smooth assembly of the pinion drive device while enabling to optimally arrange the knock pin for positioning the center frame. |
| US07832296B2 |
Sterile single use measurement device
A sterile measurement device comprising an elongated measurement probe for measuring a physical property. The probe has a first end and a second end, and a sensing element, which is located on the first end which can be installed at any time on a measurement site. The measurement site has a measuring chamber for measuring a physical quantity inside the measuring chamber without breaching sterility of the measurement arrangement. The measurement device further comprising a sterile tubing comprising a first end, a second end and a compressible section located between the ends. The sterile tubing surrounding the probe, such that the second end of the probe extends out of the second end of the tubing, structure for establishing a sterile connection between the first end of the tubing and a corresponding counter part on a measurement site. The sterile connection forms a passageway leading into a measuring chamber, wherein the physical property is to be measured, and a thermal weld providing a seal between the second end of the tubing and the elongated probe; wherein the compressible section of the tubing allows for a length of the tubing to be varied, such that the sensing element is entirely located inside the tubing, when the compressible section is uncompressed, and the sensing element is located outside the first end of the tubing when the compressible section is compressed. |
| US07832295B2 |
Submersible probe apparatus for aqueous environment monitoring with new cam-twist interconnect, liquid barrier, and battery pack
A submersible water monitoring probe assembly including: a cam-twist type interconnect mechanism; flexible PCBA (printed circuit board assembly) having flexible ribbon cable sandwiched between layers of an elongated circuit board, the ribbon cable extending outwardly from each end of the board and along an elongated probe-body; internal gas-permeable and generally liquid impermeable barrier assembly disposed within the cam-twist inter-connect mechanism between the elongated PCBA housed within the probe-body and an electrical connector of the cam-twist interconnect mechanism; and if used, a vented cable assembly, or other means of transmitting sensor data collected by sensing circuitry within a submersed probe-end. Also, an extender assembly for use with the submersible probe. At each end portion of the extender assembly is either a male cam-twist type interconnect piece or a female cam-twist type interconnect piece. The length-extender assembly may be electrically adapted to house one or more battery cells. |
| US07832292B2 |
Polar coordinate positioning system
The present disclosure provides a polar coordinate positioning system. The system can be used, for example, to sample a microtiter plate or sample tubes. In some embodiments, the system orients a sample with respect to a sampling tool using polar coordinates. In some embodiments, the sample is configured to rotate about an axis and move linearly in a direction transverse to the axis, and the sampling tool is configured to move linearly in a direction transverse to the linearly movement of the sample. |
| US07832290B2 |
Axial force transducer
Disclosed is an axial force transducer comprising a deformable element (1) which forms a measuring spring and is rotationally symmetrical to the force inducing axis as well as strain gauges (15, 18) that are arranged in pairs in areas extending in opposite directions and are connected so as to form an electrical resistance bridge. The deformable element (1) is provided with a central location hole (8) which extends radially under the effect of an axial force and whose edge (12) is connected to a deformable disk (13) via an annular rib (10), said deformable disk (13) being disposed at an axial distance from the location hole (8). The edge (14) of the deformable disk (13) radially protrudes from the annular rib (10). The strain gauges (15, 18) are applied to the face of the deformable disk (13) in pairs, inside and outside the diameter of the annular rib (10). |
| US07832285B2 |
Electronic torque meter
The invention provides an electronic torque meter for measuring torque of a wrench. The torque meter includes a housing in which an operation shaft and a flexible beam are disposed. When the operation shaft is rotated, the flexible beam is flexed. A measuring element is mounted on the flexible beam for detecting and measuring flexure of the flexible beam. An electronic display unit is mounted on the housing and electrically connected with the measuring element. When measuring the torque of a wrench, the measuring element directly measures the flexure and deformation of the flexible beam to obtain precise torque value. The torque value is displayed by the display unit in the form of numerals for easy reading. |
| US07832281B2 |
MEMS-based monitoring
A solution for monitoring a property of an object and/or an area using a Micro-ElectroMechanical Systems (MEMS)-based monitoring device is provided. In an embodiment of the invention, the MEMS-based monitoring device includes a MEMS-based sensing device for obtaining data based on a property of the object and/or area and a power generation device that generates power from an ambient condition of the monitoring device. In this manner, the monitoring device can operate independent of any outside power sources or other devices. Further, the monitoring device can include a transmitter that transmits a signal based on the property. The monitoring device can be used to monitor a moving component of a machine, and can be integrated with a health monitoring system of the machine using one or more relay devices. |
| US07832279B2 |
Semiconductor device including a pressure sensor
A semiconductor device includes a first cavity within a semiconductor substrate and a second cavity within the semiconductor substrate. The second cavity is open to an atmosphere and defines a first lamella between the first cavity and the second cavity. The semiconductor device includes a first sense element configured for sensing a pressure on the first lamella. |
| US07832278B2 |
Multi-chip package
Subject matter disclosed herein may relate to packaging for multi-chip semiconductor devices as may be used, for example, in tire pressure monitoring systems. |
| US07832277B2 |
Wireless fluid pressure sensor
A battery powered wireless fluid pressure sensor has a sealed chamber which can be vented to the outside atmosphere through a re-sealable reference port to allow a user to set the reference atmosphere inside the pressure sensor enabling the pressure sensor to provide absolute, gauge and true gauge pressure readings. The sensor calculates and transmits the fluid pressure taking into account the temperature of the pressure transducer, the temperature of the electronic devices and the barometric pressure inside the sealed chamber to provide accurate pressure measurements over a wide range of operating conditions. |
| US07832276B2 |
Pressure measuring device and method
A device to measure a fluid pressure comprises a pressure sensing element 10 and a pressure readout element 20. The pressure sensing element 10 comprises a cavity 11 capped by a flexible membrane 13, the cavity having a length d that varies with the fluid pressure P1 applied on the flexible membrane 13. The pressure readout element 20 comprises a light source 24 for providing an incident beam of a determined wavelength range directed towards the cavity and an optical spectral analyzer 25 for measuring a power spectrum of a return beam reflected by the cavity, and processing means 27 for determining the cavity length d and the fluid pressure P1 based on the power spectrum. |
| US07832274B1 |
System and method for pneumatic scour detection
An apparatus for detecting scour conditions adjacent a pier has a pipe with a plurality of holes formed through a wall of the pipes in spaced relation to each other along a length of the pipe, a plurality of porous plugs affixed respectively in the plurality of holes, a plurality of tubes connected respectively to the plurality of porous plugs, a pump connected to the tubes for passing compressed air through the plurality of tubes to the plugs, and a monitor connected to the tubes for measuring a rate of pressure bleed-off from the plurality of tubes. The pipe extends in a vertical orientation adjacent to the bridge pier and extends into the earth adjacent the bridge pier. The plurality of porous plugs are spaced at equal intervals from each other. |
| US07832265B1 |
Vertical wind tunnel sports arena
A sports arena comprised of a vertical wind tunnel modular unit capable of conjoining with a multitude of vertical wind tunnel modular units joined in tandem for the purpose of levitating humans in a sports arena. The vertical wind tunnel sports arena is designed so that a single vertical wind tunnel modular unit can be utilized as a self contained sports arena or multiple vertical wind tunnel modular units can be combined together in tandem to form an expansive arena where various competitive sports can be played while the athletes are levitating in mid air. The arena contains two separate target systems, each suspended twenty feet above a trampoline safety net, disposed at polar opposite ends of the sports arena. A ball striking a button in the middle of a backboard on the target system will cause a fireball or Tesla coil report to discharge indicating a field goal. |
| US07832263B2 |
Tire having wireless micro and nano sensors
A sensor system for obtaining data from an elastomeric article includes at least one wireless sensor. The sensor length-scales range from nano- to micro-scale devices that are small enough to avoid becoming occlusions within the article. The article may include sensors embedded within one of the materials of the article, a layer of sensors built into the article, and a string of sensors disposed within a component or embedded within a component of the article. The sensors may be configured to provide data related to one or more of temperature, pressure, sidewall flex, stress, strain and other parameters. The sensors may be LCD sensors, and/or conductive polymer sensors, and/or bio-polymer sensors and/or polymer diodes suitable for sensing data during the operation of the tire. A power circuit using energy generated by the tire may provide power to the sensors. |
| US07832262B2 |
Method of detecting an occurrence of hydroplaning of a tire on a road
In a method of detecting an occurrence of hydroplaning of a tire of a vehicle travelling on wet ground, a tread of the tire of the vehicle is equipped with one or more sensors each capable of measuring a compression experienced locally by the tread when the tire is rolling on the ground and of producing a signal corresponding to these measurements. According to the method, measurements are obtained of a compression when the tire is rolling on the ground; a signal corresponding to these measurements is produced; a portion of the signal relating to a passing of one or more sensors into an apparent area of contact between the tire and the ground is extracted; an instantaneous value (ΔE, Rz), corresponding to a presence of an indirect contact region of the apparent area of contact between the tread and the ground, is determined from the extracted portion of the signal; and an alarm is triggered when the instantaneous value satisfies a given relationship. |
| US07832261B2 |
Method for recognizing the saturation point of a vacuum brake booster
A device for determining the saturation point of a vacuum brake booster having a vacuum chamber and a working chamber that are separated from one another by a membrane. The reaching of the saturation point can be recognized simply and precisely if the vacuum prevailing in the vacuum chamber is measured using a pressure sensor, and the output signal of the pressure sensor is evaluated by an electronic evaluation system that calculates the saturation point using a mathematical function, taking into account only the pressure prevailing in the vacuum chamber. |
| US07832260B2 |
Abnormality diagnosis apparatus for internal combustion engine
An abnormality diagnosis apparatus for an internal combustion engine includes an abnormality diagnosis unit, an other fuel contamination determination unit, and a misdiagnosis prohibition unit. The abnormality diagnosis unit determines whether there is an abnormality in a fuel system based on an output from an exhaust gas sensor mounted on an exhaust duct of the internal combustion engine. The other fuel contamination determination unit determines whether an other fuel contaminates a supply fuel supplied to the internal combustion engine. The misdiagnosis prohibition unit conducts one of (a) changing an abnormality determination condition for the abnormality diagnosis in the fuel system and (b) prohibiting the abnormality diagnosis in the fuel system, when the other fuel contamination determination unit determines that the other fuel contaminates the supply fuel. |
| US07832259B2 |
Fuel system diagnostics by analyzing engine crankshaft speed signal
Combustion within an internal combustion engine is diagnosed and includes monitoring crankshaft angular velocity and generating a combustion phasing value for a combustion chamber based on the crankshaft angular velocity. The combustion phasing value is compared to an expected combustion phasing value based on a predetermined start of injection crank angle and combustion phasing differences greater than an allowable combustion phasing difference are identified based on the comparison. |
| US07832257B2 |
Determining fluid rheological properties
Controlling a well injection operation, such as a well fracturing operation, includes identifying a flow characteristic of a fracturing fluid, identifying a flow characteristic of a base fluid used for forming the fracturing fluid, determining an amount of friction reduction change of the fracturing fluid, and adjusting the amount of friction reduction of the fracturing fluid to coincide with a selected friction reduction amount. Identifying a flow characteristic may be performed by a rheology measuring device including a measurement tube, a first pressure sensor disposed at a first position on the measurement tube, a second pressure sensor disposed at a second position on the measurement tube, a flow meter disposed at a third position along the measurement tube, a temperature sensor disposed at a fourth location along the measurement tube, and a control unit interconnected to the first and second pressure sensors, the flow meter, and the temperature sensor. |
| US07832256B2 |
Method and apparatus for detecting the presence or absence of fluids in a pipeline
A method and apparatus for detecting the presence or absence of an undesirable fluid, such as water, in a pipeline and for removing the undesirable fluid are disclosed. A detecting substance, for example, sugar, naphthalene or a pigmented solid is carried by a sweeping pig. The sweeping pig is inserted into the pipeline, propelled along the pipeline and recovered from the pipeline. The detecting substance is examined upon recovery of the sweeping pig to determine whether the undesirable fluid is present in the pipeline. The pipeline can be swept multiple times until examination of the detecting substance indicates that the undesirable fluid is not present in the pipeline. |
| US07832255B2 |
Sealed device and leak test method and manufacturing method thereof
An inner sealing portion seals a tubular port, which is provided to a receiver that receives water, at a first location of the tubular port. An outer sealing portion seals the tubular port at a second location of the tubular port spaced from the first location on an outer side of the inner sealing portion. A sealed space is formed between the inner sealing portion and the outer sealing portion. A tracer gas for performing a leak test of the outer sealing portion is enclosed in the sealed space. An amount of outwardly leaked tracer gas, which leaks from the sealed space through the outer sealing portion, is measured with a leak test device. |
| US07832254B2 |
Particulate sensor and method for operating a particulate sensor
A sensor for determining the concentration of particulates in gas mixtures is described, a soot sensor in particular, having a ceramic sensor body surrounded by a metallic housing and having a first and a second measuring electrode. In this instance, the first measuring electrode is connected to the metallic housing of the sensor or the metallic housing of the sensor is designed as the first measuring electrode. By additional electrodes on the ceramic body, the sensor is operable also as a lambda sensor. |
| US07832251B2 |
Patterned mold for medical device
An apparatus and method for imprinting a pattern on a medical device to provide a surface with greater surface area and improved adhesion properties. |
| US07832250B2 |
Method and apparatus for automating production of sinuous springs
A method and apparatus is disclosed for manufacturing sinuous springs wherein each spring comprises a discrete length of sinuous spring wire having parallel straight bar segments interconnected at their opposite ends by oppositely directed curved connecting segments. This apparatus is operable to adjust the length of the sinuous spring wires exiting the machine without turning off or stopping the machine. An operator need only rotate a handle outside a housing of the machine to increase or decrease the length of the sinuous spring wires exiting the machine. |
| US07832248B2 |
Hanger for fire sprinkler pipe
A one-piece hanger is formed with a pair of spaced segments or legs joined by an end wall. Each segment has a recess formed in an edge which is open towards the recess on an edge of the opposite segment. The two recesses are aligned so as to create a substantially full opening to receive a pipe. The hanger may be positioned on a pipe with the segments extending substantially parallel to the pipe axis, and the hanger can then be rotated about 90° so that the pipe extends through the substantially full opening formed by the recesses. The hanger end is formed with mounting holes. |
| US07832245B2 |
Method and apparatus for hot forming of sheet metal in titanium-base alloys
A titanium sheet to be formed is heated in a sealingly closed tool by the radiation heat from the heating elements integrated into the tool to a forming temperature not exceeding 600° C., and is deformed towards a cold tool contour by the action of a non-oxidizing gaseous pressure medium introduced into the tool and heated to the hot-forming temperature, as well as by underpressure generated on the side of the workpiece facing away from the pressure medium. |
| US07832243B2 |
Apparatus for a shot peening treatment
A shot-peening device(s) is installed on a side of a cabinet defining an ejection chamber in the cabinet. Shots ejected from the device to a workpiece fall and are conveyed in a horizontal direction by a horizontal screw conveyor positioned above a lower end of the cabinet and then conveyed upward by a vertical screw conveyor whose base end is above the lower end of the cabinet. The shots pass from an upper section of the vertical screw conveyor through a chute to reach an opening/closing gate. When the gate is opened and the shots are supplied to the device(s) for re-ejeciton, a portion of the shots is cause to overflow from the gate. The overflowed shots are caused to pass through a separator to remove impurities and then returned to the horizontal screw conveyor. |
| US07832242B2 |
Method for producing a hardened profile part
The invention relates to a method for producing a hardened profiled structural part from a hardenable steel alloy with cathodic corrosion protection. The method includes applying a coating to a sheet made of a hardenable steel alloy, wherein the coating comprises zinc, and the coating further comprises one or several elements with affinity to oxygen in a total amount of 0.1 weight-% to 15 weight-% in relation to the total coating. After applying the coating, the coated sheet steel is roller-profiled in a profiling device. Thereafter, the coated sheet steel is heated to a structural change required for hardening. A skin made of an oxide of the element(s) with affinity to oxygen is formed on the surface of the coating. After sufficient heating the sheet is cooled, wherein the rate of cooling is set in such a way that hardening of the sheet alloy is achieved. |
| US07832240B2 |
Lid lock device
A lid lock device includes: a housing fixed to either of a lid and a box; a hook member engaged with and disengaged from a lock portion; an elastic biasing unit for biasing the hook member; a control member for controlling the movement of the hook member; and a translating unit for translating the control member, wherein: the hook member includes: a hook portion which is brought into direct engagement with and disengagement from the lock portion; and an operating portion for translating the hook portion from a closing corresponding state to an opening corresponding state; a first wall and a second wall are provided on either of the hook member and the control member; a recessed portion is formed on either of the walls; and a raised portion is formed on the other of the hook member and the control member. |
| US07832235B2 |
Apparatus and method for winding at least one fiber
An apparatus for winding a fiber strand onto a former, wherein there is provided a separating means for fixing and separating the fiber strand at the end of an operation of winding on a finish-wound first former and for bringing the fixed fiber-strand end to a second former to be wound in order to begin a new winding operation. At least one thread buffer for temporary storage of a fiber-strand portion between the end of one winding operation and the beginning of a new winding operation is disposed upstream from the separating means in the feed direction. |
| US07832233B2 |
Method of making staged burnout enamels for second surface firing of multilayer glass structures
The present invention provides a method of making a decorated multilayer glass structure using a single firing step that includes that use of a crystallizing glass enamel composition that contains ingredients to ensure the complete burnout of the organic portion of the composition upon firing and bending of a mated pair of glass sheets. A benefit of the composition is that when applied to one sheet of a mated pair of glass sheets, it burns out completely during firing and bending of the pair. The presence of high levels of oxidizers in the composition ensures a supply of oxygen to enable combustion of the organic vehicle while firing the glass sheets and prior to the sintering of the enamel composition to only one glass sheet in a mated pair of decorated or colored glass sheets. |
| US07832221B2 |
Vehicle compressor control system and method
A vehicle compressor is controlled based on an environment parameter and a vehicle status parameter. In at least one embodiment, a temperature control system for a vehicle including an engine is provided. The system includes a compressor having a target operating speed. The system also includes an environment sensor arrangement configured to sense an environment parameter and a vehicle status sensor arrangement configured to sense a vehicle status parameter. The system further includes a control module that determines a maximum operating speed of the compressor as a function of both the environment parameter and the vehicle status parameter. The control module limits an operating speed of the compressor to the maximum operating speed if the target operating speed is greater than the maximum operating speed. |
| US07832218B2 |
High efficiency apparatus and method for cooling produce
An apparatus for the efficient cooling of produce directed to the cooling of freshly picked produce in containers on pallets. The apparatus has a first opening for the entrance of stacks of containers to be moved through cooling enclosure. The stacks of containers are moved through to a first cooling area wherein the containers are exposed to cooling air provided in a first direction. The stacks of containers are then moved through to a second cooling area wherein the containers are exposed to cooling air in a second direction. Isolation of the containers and routing of the air flow is supplemented with air inflatable seals which abut the containers. A method for the efficient cooling of produce utilizing an apparatus as described. |
| US07832217B1 |
Method of control of thermal energy module background of the invention
A control system measures the pressure/temperature of the refrigerant within a Thermal Energy Module having a heat exchanger and calculates the thickness of ice within the Thermal Energy Module. A controller calculates an integral starting from the moment when ice accumulation begins: I(t)=∫Tr(τ)*dτ where Tr is the refrigerant saturation temperature changing with time t. The thickness of the ice on one side of the heat exchanger can be calculated using the following formula: X=√(2*I*K*Ui/ρi/ci) where Ui is the thermal conductance of ice ρi is the density of the ice Ci is the latent heat of the ice K is a correction coefficient associated with the type of the heat exchanger. |
| US07832212B2 |
High expansion fuel injection slot jet and method for enhancing mixing in premixing devices
A premixing device includes an air inlet, at least one fuel inlet slot having a wall profile configured to form a fuel boundary layer along a portion of a wall of the premixing device, a mixing chamber, and at least one diverging fuel injection slot jet disposed inside the at least one fuel inlet slot, the slot jet being configured to create a flow separation region in a diverging portion thereof to generate mixing turbulence at an outlet of the slot jet to aerodynamically enhance a mixing of the fuel from the boundary layer with compressed air without causing a boundary layer flow separation and a flame holding in the mixing chamber. Low-emission combustors, gas turbine combustors, methods for premixing a fuel and an oxidizer in a combustion system, a gas turbine, and a gas to liquid system using the premixing device are also disclosed. |
| US07832206B2 |
Systems and methods for controlling automatic transmission fluid
Systems and methods of controlling automatic transmission fluid (ATF) in a vehicle include torque converter systems generally having a pump, a turbine and a stator. The stator is selectively rotated during periods of predetermined low ATF temperature, thereby causing temporarily induced inefficiencies that warm the ATF. |
| US07832204B2 |
Engine system including heat pipe
An engine system for a vehicle includes a first heat pipe in contact with the exhaust and a first fluid of the engine system; a second heat pipe in contact with the exhaust and a second fluid of the engine system. In one example, the first heat pipe provides increased heat transfer during a first temperature condition and the second heat pipe provides increased heat transfer during a second temperature condition different than the first temperature condition. |
| US07832199B2 |
Exhaust purification system for internal combustion engine
Art is provided for an exhaust purification system for an internal combustion engine, which decreases an amount of exhaust flowing to a storage-reduction type NOx catalyst and supplies a reducer to the NOx catalyst so as to reduce NOx stored in the NOx catalyst, wherein the manner in which the reducer is dispersed in the NOx catalyst can be controlled to achieve more reliable execution of a NOx reduction treatment. Air-fuel ratio detecting unit is disposed upstream and downstream of the storage-reduction type NOx catalyst. During a predetermined period subsequent to decreasing an amount of exhaust flowing to the NOx catalyst and adding the reducer to the exhaust, a reducer-adding timing is changed such that a difference between an air-fuel ratio detected by the air-fuel ratio detecting unit disposed upstream of the NOx catalyst and an air-fuel ratio detected by the air-fuel ratio detecting unit disposed downstream of the NOx catalyst becomes a predetermined target value. |
| US07832196B2 |
Electronic emissions control
A method of controlling emissions from an internal combustion engine including governing engine speed with respect to a constant speed, maintaining an air/fuel ratio of the engine, flowing exhaust from the engine through an exhaust system containing a catalyst, monitoring a variable with a feedback sensor located upstream of the catalyst, and controlling the air/fuel ratio of the engine as a function of the variable. In one application, the engine is configured for marine applications, including electric power generation and propulsion. |
| US07832193B2 |
Gas turbine engine assembly and methods of assembling same
A method of assembling a gas turbine assembly includes providing a core gas turbine engine including a high-pressure compressor, a combustor, and a turbine, coupling a low-pressure turbine to the core gas turbine engine, coupling a booster compressor to a gearbox, and coupling the gearbox to the low-pressure turbine such that the booster compressor is driven by the low-pressure turbine. |
| US07832189B1 |
Apparatus to improve modular cutterbar connecting shaft spline durability
An improved modular disc cutterhead connecting drive shaft configuration having a means for laterally centering the shaft between adjacent cutterhead modules thereby equalizing engagement on each end of the shaft with the module connectors. Further durability improvement is realized by a structure to radially center the shaft in the shaft receptacles of each module to maintain uniform loading on the shaft/receptacle interface which improves the durability of the connecting drive shaft end connections. Additional connecting shaft durability is provided by a means to lubricate the drive shaft connector connecting interfaces using lubricant reservoirs disposed within the modules. |
| US07832186B2 |
Packaging method for stacked articles
A machine for packaging stacks of articles into containers using selectors for grouping the article stacks. The selectors include arrays of vertically spaced wedge members which engage the articles in each stack. The wedge members are aligned with slots in comb-like guide rails and operate to form groups of predetermined numbers of stacks of articles while keeping the articles in each stack in vertical alignment as they progress through the machine into the containers. A method of grouping stacked articles and a method of packaging stacked articles is also disclosed. |
| US07832185B2 |
Active sterilization zone for container filling
An apparatus for sterile filling of beverage containers has a first module and a second module. The first module rinses and sterilizes empty containers and delivers the sterilized containers to the second module. The second module fills and caps the containers with beverage product at ambient temperature in an active sterilization zone utilizing an e-beam sterilization unit. |
| US07832175B2 |
Methods of securing an object over an opening
A fastener device for releasably securing an object within an opening formed in a structure comprises a first fastening member and a second fastening member each having a pair of legs which are oriented at an angle relative to one another. A coupling element is movable along one of the legs of at least one of the first and second fastening members. One leg of each fastening member is inserted into a hole formed in the structure surrounding the opening allowing the other leg to pivot, preferably in a trochoidal motion, until the pivoting legs align with one another at which time the coupling element may be moved into engagement with the two pivoting legs to releasably connect the fastening members together in position to secure the object relative to the opening. |
| US07832174B2 |
Multi-storey insulated concrete form structure and method of construction
A method of constructing one or more storeys of a multi-storey insulated concrete form structure using insulated forms and a multi-storey insulated concrete form structure built using the method. An aspect of the method comprises erecting a set of forms comprising an inner form and an outer form a set distance apart, the outer form extending higher than the inner form when erected. Pouring concrete between the forms upto an upper portion of the inner form and allowing the concrete to set creating a first concrete bearing surface. Positioning a floor on the first concrete bearing surface above the inner form. Pouring concrete between the floor and the outer form to an upper portion of the outer form and allowing the concrete to set creating a second bearing surface substantially in-line with the upper portion of the outer form. |
| US07832166B2 |
System, method and apparatus for producing fire rated doors
The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for producing fire rated doors having added strength, better finishing and low cost manufacturing flexibility. The fire rated doors are made from two panels “sandwiched” together. An optional interior layer (e.g., fire resistant material, lead sheeting, steel or Kevlar) can be added between the door panels for various purposes. Splines, stiles or sticks are inserted in longitudinal channels in the door panels to provide assistance in aligning the door panels and greater hardware holding strength. An intumescent banding material concealed by a banding material around the perimeter of the door seals the door within its frame during a fire. The door design and the automated manufacturing process provide greater design choice, reduced cost and faster fabrication. |
| US07832164B2 |
Concealed reinforcement member and joint reinforcement system for trim molding
A joint support system for trim members 12 and 14 has a reinforcement member 16 attached to the trim members 12 and 14. A fastener fastens the trim members 12 and 14 to the reinforcement. An adhering glue may be applied and set between the reinforcement member 16 and trim members 12 and 14 to form a tight joint. |
| US07832156B2 |
Condensation inhibition system for structural waterproofing
The present invention provides a condensation inhibition system for structural waterproofing. In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, a waterproofing system is provided within a dwelling having a wall and a foundation. The wall having a first surface for defining an interior of the dwelling and an exterior in communication with graded soil. The waterproofing system further including a waterproofing panel having a front vapor diffusion retarder portion, a back vapor diffusion retarder portion, and an insulator carried between said front portion and said back portion. Additionally, a collection channel is provided for collecting water entering into the dwelling from the exterior. |
| US07832154B2 |
Position retention mechanism for modular wall assembly
A system for connecting modular walls includes a position retention mechanism configured to releasably retain a plurality of wall modules together. In one implementation, the position retention mechanism includes opposing front and back surfaces or walls, and one or more channels formed therebetween. The position retention mechanism is further configured with a plurality of spring tabs positioned within the one or more channels, wherein the spring tabs are configured to lock into a plurality of opposing connector interfaces corresponding to the opposing wall modules, such that the positioning retaining mechanism secures adjacent, opposing wall modules together. The position retention mechanism can further be configured with different surfaces to connect or hold a variety of components of various shapes together. |
| US07832146B2 |
Self watering planter
A self watering planter device and method of watering allowing water to be supplied by means of standard garden water hose and existing water faucet. A plurality of said self watering planters capable of being daisy-chained in a serial configuration to allow a single source of water from a standard water faucet and standard garden water hoses to provide irrigation water to all of said plurality of self watering planters. |
| US07832140B2 |
Attracting mosquitoes for electrocution and/or trapping
An insect killing system optimized for mosquitoes uses multiple thermal gradients to simulate the breathing of, and body heat emitted by, animals, including human beings and fowl, to attract insects for subsequent electrocution and/or trapping. Mosquitoes are attracted to a mosquito-killing device for electrocution and/or trapping. Heat is generated within the device such that a heat gradient between an outer surface of the device and the atmosphere surrounding the device is created thereby emulating emission of body heat by an animal. At least one mosquito attractant, such as an aromatic, a pheromone, or moisture, is emitted from the device. And an airflow is created that sucks mosquitoes, which have been attracted to the outside of the device, into the device for electrocution and/or trapping by the device. |
| US07832138B1 |
Gun sight featuring point-to-point alignment
A gun sight system featuring point-to-point visual alignment is provided. A front sight coupled to a forward end of a gun includes a top sighting point and optionally lateral sighting points. A rear sight coupled to a rearward end of the gun includes a pair of spaced apart rear lateral sighting points each visually alignable with and visually touching one of the front lateral sighting points or the top sighting point for visually touching the top sighting point with a target while simultaneously visually aligning at least one of the rear lateral sighting points with a point on the front sight. |
| US07832133B2 |
Labeling method, web of labels and label array
There are disclosed several embodiments of label sets or arrays having a substantial capacity for printed information while maintaining all the labels of the array associated and properly oriented with respect to each other, wherein all the labels of each set or array can be printed in a printer. The labels of the array are preferably printed in transverse rows across a label web to increase the number of labels that can be carried on a roll. |
| US07832131B2 |
Afterglowing sign
The present invention relates to an afterglowing sign printed with afterglowing pigments. The sign is made of a material with a coloured surface on which the afterglowing pigment is printed, and the coloured substrate shines through the print with the afterglowing pigment. |
| US07832128B2 |
Ditch digging bucket
A one-pass bucket includes a top wall, a bottom wall, a rear wall and a pair of side walls diverging forwardly from the rear wall to an open front end of the bucket, wherein the curved end walls extend convexly from the bottom wall to the top of the end wall at a forward edge thereof, and extending substantially diagonally upwardly from the bottom at a rearward edge so that the forward edge of the curved end wall curves upwardly towards the plane of the top wall so as to intersect the plane of the top wall non-tangentially and the rearward edge extends diagonally to intersect the plane of the top wall whereby a round bottom ditch is formed by rotating one of the curved end walls down and dragging that curved end wall through the soil longitudinally of the proposed ditch in a single pass. |
| US07832124B2 |
Vibratory shoe for feet
A shoe incorporates reflexology and acupressure as applied to a foot when wearing the shoe. The shoe has a sole with a battery powered vibration unit that mechanically vibrates a spiked gel insole located near the underside of a foot. The rounded spikes of the insole stimulate the acupressure points of the foot for its relaxation and pleasant feelings in a person. The sole of the shoe has a port for battery charging, a switch to control the vibration, and a charge indicator light at the sole's edge. The sole has a latch to remove the battery from a compartment in the heel area. The vibrating shoe operates while bearing the weight of a person or not. A transmitter remotely activates the vibration unit as a person is standing. |
| US07832121B2 |
Footwear with deployable crampons
An improved boot for use in ice and snow conditions that combines a flared snowshoe-like secondary sole with integral and selectively deployable crampons. The expanded secondary sole extends approximately ¼″ or more down from the primary sole of the boot and includes retractable crampons attached to the expanded sole to increase traction in snow or ice. The expanded sole functions to increase the surface area of the “footprint”, thereby reducing the overall depth of the footprint and making traversing in soft conditions (snow, mud, sand) less fatiguing to the wearer. The crampons may pivot outward from inside pockets in the secondary sole or, alternatively, may slide outward in a stiletto-fashion and/or unfold. The crampons may be individually deployable or simultaneously deployable by a central release button. |
| US07832117B2 |
Article of footwear including full length composite plate
A full length composite plate to be used as part of an outsole assembly in an article of footwear is disclosed. The full length composite plate comprises a composite material that has a certain percent elongation. The full length composite plate can include a heel cup for heel stability and improved traction. The full length composite plate also can include two angled portions along an arch region that provide arch support, as well as two flattened edges along the arch region to minimize or eliminate buckling. The forefoot region can be relatively flatter than the arch and heel regions, and notches are preferably included along a portion of the forefoot to increase flexibility. |
| US07832112B2 |
Vial-mounting structure
A level including an elongate hollow frame with two sidewalls and a topwall extending therebetween, a topnotch defined by the walls which have notch-defining edges including non-vertical surfaces, and a vial within the topnotch. A vial-mounting structure includes a vial-holding member and a locking member movably secured with respect to the vial-holding member. The vial-holding member is configured for resting on the non-vertical notch-edge surfaces. The locking member includes frame-engaging portions which press upwardly against a frame inner surface to pull the vial-holding member downwardly against the non-vertical notch-edge surfaces, thereby securing the vial-holding member to the frame. A method for securing a vial-mounting structure to the level by providing the vial-mounting structure, which includes the vial-holding member, and pulling the vial-holding member downwardly against the non-vertical notch-edge surfaces by a force from inside the frame, thereby securing the vial-holding member to the frame. |
| US07832110B1 |
Quasi-uniaxial solar trajectory tracking transit system
The present invention relates to a quasi-uniaxial solar trajectory tracking transit system including a canopy, a case, a first positioning ring, a second positioning ring and a positioning pole. The canopy is a transparent hemisphere marked with a graduation line indicating elevation angles. The first positioning ring is a hollow body for receiving the second positioning ring. The two sides of the positioning ring have an axle respectively to connect with the case. The second positioning ring is a hollow fan-shape body for receiving the positioning pole. The second positioning ring has an axle perpendicular to the two sides of the axles of the first positioning ring for connecting to the first positioning ring thereby. The flange of the second positioning ring has a groove, and the central of the second positioning ring has an axle. A partial of positioning pole is hollow as a hollow pole and the other partial of the positioning pole is solid as a solid pole. A through hole is formed at the upper flange of the hollow pole and a sight is set at the lower flange thereof. The solid pole is axially connected to the axle of the second positioning ring. |
| US07832109B2 |
Archery bow sight and method
A sight assembly is adapted for connection to a bow. The sight assembly includes a base sight having a sight opening and forming a pocket along an edge thereof. A pin cartridge is releasably connected to the base sight and is located within the pocket. When installed, the cartridge is adapted for supporting at least one pin at least partially within the sight opening. |
| US07832107B2 |
Deburr device and method
A deburr tool for deburring an end of a conduit includes a handle, cutting bit, and head. The handle is to grasp the deburr tool. The handle has a handle axis. The cutting bit includes a distal end, proximal end, body portion and a cutting profile. The body portion is generally cylindrical and has a bit axis. The cutting profile is generally “U” shaped and resides in a plane generally parallel to the bit axis. The cutting profile tapers from an opening disposed at the distal end to an arcuate base. The opening has a distance between a first side and a second side that exceeds a wall thickness of the conduit. The head rotatably secures the cutting bit to the handle. The bit axis coincides with the handle axis. |
| US07832105B2 |
Water plant removal tool
A manually operable cutting tool for removing vegetation from a body of water such as along the shoreline of a pond or lake includes a handle and a pair of angularly adjustable cutting blades. The blades are selectively, pivotally adjustable between fully open and fully closed angular positions for ease and safety of handling. An optional floatation bar may be provided for attaching to the blades which allows the blades to be pulled across the surface of the water for collecting floating weeds. |
| US07832103B1 |
Portable jig assembly and method for use in constructing suspended strut rack systems
A structure, method and kit for constructing suspended strut racks wherein jig members are disposed on support members parallel to one another, each of such jig members including channel member receipt areas for receipt of a channel member and receipt slots for receipt of pairs of square washers, lock washers and nuts, the apertures of which are aligned with a threaded rod receipt channels to allow for a threaded rod to be driven through the square washers, lock washers, nuts and through an aperture in a channel member to create a strut rack array to be suspended from a desired location. |
| US07832095B2 |
Method of forming a land grid array (LGA) interposer arrangement utilizing metal-on-elastomer hemi-torus and other multiple points of contact geometries
A method of producing a land grid array (LGA) interposer structure, including an electrically insulating carrier plane, and at least one interposer mounted on a first surface of said carrier plane. The interposer possesses a hemi-toroidal configuration in transverse cross-section and is constituted of a dielectric elastomeric material. A plurality of electrically-conductive elements are arranged about the surface of the at least one hemi-toroidal interposer and extend radically inwardly and downwardly from an uppermost end thereof into electrical contact with at least one component located on an opposite side of the electrically insulating carrier plane. |
| US07832091B2 |
Method for manufacturing conductive contact holder
A method for manufacturing a conductive contact holder includes forming, from a conductive material, a substrate having a hollow portion to which a holder member for holding a plurality of conductive contacts can be fitted; fixing the substrate formed from the conductive material and an insulating member by fitting the substrate and the insulating member into the hollow portion of the substrate, the insulating member being a raw material of the holder member; polishing a surface of the fixed holder member and a surface of the substrate adjoining the surface so as to make the surfaces smooth; and forming a plurality of holder holes for containing the conductive contacts, respectively, the holder holes penetrating the holder member, the surface of which is polished. The fixing includes filling an insulating adhesive between the holder member and the substrate. |
| US07832085B2 |
Method of manufacturing magnetic head and method of manufacturing magnetic head substructure
A method of manufacturing a magnetic head includes the steps of: fabricating a substructure in which pre-head portions are aligned in a plurality of rows by forming components of a plurality of magnetic heads on a single substrate; and fabricating the plurality of magnetic heads by separating the pre-head portions from one another through cutting the substructure. In the step of fabricating the substructure, the resistance of an MR film that will be formed into an MR element by undergoing lapping later is detected to determine the target position of the boundary between a track width defining portion and a wide portion of a pole layer based on the resistance detected, and the pole layer is thereby formed. In the step of fabricating the magnetic heads, the surface formed by cutting the substructure is lapped such that the MR film is lapped and the resistance thereof thereby reaches a predetermined value. |
| US07832084B2 |
Methods for recording servo information
A method of recording servo information includes writing servo information in a data storage medium using a compound magnetic recording head. The compound magnetic recording head has a substrate including first and second magnetically permeable substrate portions and a substantially non-magnetic member interposed between the first and second magnetically permeable substrate portions. A magnetically permeable layer is provided over the first and second magnetically permeable substrate portions of the substrate and includes first and second writing gap features associated with the first and second substrate portions. The writing gap features are formed using a patterned mask layer over the magnetically permeable layer, wherein the patterned mask layer comprises first and second patterned gap features corresponding to the first and second writing gap features. |
| US07832083B2 |
Shipping comb usable with a head stack
A shipping comb combined with a head stack assembly (HSA) which includes sliders recording data onto or reading data from disks, suspensions having the sliders thereon, and end-taps at front ends of the suspensions, the shipping comb preventing the HSA from being damaged, the shipping comb including a body unit having protruding suspension spacers which are each inserted between middle portions of a pair of suspensions having a pair of sliders facing each other to prevent a collision of the middle portions of the pair of suspensions, and a head unit having protruding end-tap spacers inserted between the end-taps of the pair of the suspensions to prevent a collision of the front ends of the pair of suspensions, and connected to a front end of the body unit with a hinge. |
| US07832071B2 |
Device for extracting a nozzle assembly
A device for extracting a nozzle assembly of a fuel injection installation. The nozzle assembly is pressed into a cylinder head of an internal combustion engine, with a support pipe, with which the extraction device of the device is supported in the area surrounding the nozzle assembly on the valve cover during the extraction operation. To rule out deformations of the valve cover in case of strong tensile forces and extremely crowded space conditions, provisions are made according to the present invention for a divided support ring, which is formed from two ring sections, which can be placed individually on the valve cover in the area surrounding the nozzle assembly, to be able to be inserted between the support pipe of the extraction device and the surface of the valve cover. |
| US07832070B2 |
Apparatus and method for strengthening gear teeth
An apparatus and method for increasing the operating life of a rotating gear element including a plurality of outwardly-projecting gear teeth each having an involute profile, with each gear tooth having a pair of flanks and a pair of generally semi-circular root portions. A ring tool having a plurality of hardened, inwardly-projecting burnishing teeth is employed to plastically deform only the root portions of the gear element being formed, while avoiding contact with the flanks as the gear element is passed through the ring tool. The ring tool also includes a plurality of broaching surfaces or cutting edges for removing excess stock material from the surfaces of the root portions. The ring tool increases the compressive residual stresses in the root portion of the gear element being formed, thereby creating an optimal residual stress profile and greater bending strength within the root portion of the gear element. |
| US07832069B2 |
Capacitor device and method of manufacturing the same
A capacitor device includes a capacitor Q constituted by a lower electrode (12) formed on a substrate (10), a dielectric film (14), and an upper electrode (16); an insulating film (18) covering the capacitor Q; a first contact hole (18a) formed in the insulating film (18) on a connection portion (16a) of the upper electrode (16); an electrode pad (20) for preventing a diffusion of solder, formed in the first contact hole (18a); and a solder bump (22) electrically connected to the electrode pad (20), and the upper electrode (16) has a protrusion portion (16a) protruding from the dielectric film (14), and is connected to the first contact hole (18a) on the protrusion portion (16a). |
| US07832066B2 |
Retractably extendable fastener system
A fastener which operates to provide retractably extendable fastener elements which allow for attachment and detachment of the fastener to fastenable materials. |
| US07832064B2 |
Multiple engagement joint tethered fastener
A fastener first member connects to a second member by a flexible tether. A third member having multiple deflectable wings slides onto the second member. A first member male pin extends through a third member aperture to engage second member biasing elements, joining the first, second and third members. |
| US07832060B2 |
Device on a draw frame having a drafting system for textile fibre slivers
In a device on a draw frame having a drafting system for textile fiber slivers with weighting of the upper rolls of the drafting system which comprises roll pairs arranged one behind the other, the pairs having lower and upper rolls, the rotating journals at the ends of the upper roll are mounted by means of bearing elements and the bearing elements each have at least one deep-groove ball bearing having an immovable outer housing (outer ring) and an internal rotational body (inner ring). In order to provide a structurally simple way in which the bearing housings can be mounted on or removed from the presser roll in a simple, quick and reliable manner, the bearing elements are in the form of deep-groove ball bearings and there is a coupling between the journal and the rotational body. |
| US07832059B2 |
Device on a spinning preparation machine, for example a draw frame, carding machine, combing machine or the like, having a drafting system
In a device on a spinning preparation machine, having a drafting system for drawing at least one fibre silver with drafting system rollers, forming drafting roller pairs, having power transmission means for driving the drafting system rollers and having a drive motor, the drive of the drafting system rollers is effected from different sides. In order to reduce the number of drive elements and to effect a substantial improvement in efficiency, the drive motor has two rotating drive elements, the drive of at least one roller pair being effected from one side by the first drive element and the drive of at least one other roller pair being effected from the other side by the second drive element. |
| US07832057B2 |
Extendable multi-axis door hinge
Embodiments of multi-axis vehicle door hinges are provided that are adapted to facilitate pivotal motion of a vehicle door about a substantially vertical axis of rotation for swing-out rotation, lateral motion of a vehicle door about a substantially horizontal plane, as well as to facilitate pivotal motion of a vehicle door about a substantially horizontal axis of rotation for vertical-lift rotation and providing means for adjusting the opening angle of the hinge in both the horizontal and vertical axis of rotation. |
| US07832054B2 |
Free stop hinge
The present invention provides a free stop hinge which can be stopped at any angle, the hinge having a structure in which a pressing force by means for pressing can be set with little variation and can be adjusted easily. The free stop hinge of the present invention connects an opening and closing member to a main body portion so that the opening and closing member can be opened and closed with respect to the main body portion and can be stopped at an arbitrary opening angle, which includes a hinge base and a hinge arm rotatably connected to the hinge base through an intermediation of a support shaft. The hinge base and the hinge arm are provided with bearing plates having shaft holes, respectively. Between the bearing plates, a friction plate having a shaft hole is disposed and the hinge arm is supported by a support shaft so as to be rotatable with respect to the hinge base. There is disposed a compression coil spring for biasing one of the bearing plates so as to be pressed to another of the bearing plates through an intermediation of the friction plate the friction plate. |
| US07832041B2 |
Instant stain removing device, formulation and absorbent means
A device for applying stain treatment formulation to a garment or article of clothing while it is being worn is disclosed. The device includes a reservoir with an applicator tip for containing the formulation and dispensing the formulation to a stain, spot or mark on the garment. The device also includes a shell connected to the reservoir for housing an absorbent member dispensing mechanism. After the stain removal formulation is applied, the absorbent member is pressed and/or rubbed on the stain to lift and remove the stain and to absorb or wick excess formulation thereby reducing the time needed for the resulting wet spot to dry. Effective stain removing formulations for on-the-go use are also provided. |
| US07832039B2 |
Support surface with inflatable core zones
A mattress includes a core portion having independently inflatable head, seat and foot zones, each of which includes at least an A bladder and a B bladder. Pressure within all the core portion A bladders is adjustable separately from pressure within all the core portion B bladders. Pressure within the A bladders of a given zone are adjustable separately from pressure within the B bladders of the given zone. Pressure within the A bladders of a given zone are separately adjustable from pressure within the A bladders of zones other than the given zone, and pressure within the B bladders of a given zone are separately adjustable from pressure within the B bladders of zones other than the given zone. |
| US07832036B2 |
Nursing support pillows and methods
A pillow system comprises a curved main pillow having a pillow body having a midsection and a pair of ends. The pillow body is curved and is both flexible and firm to permit it to wrap around a user. A padded attachment member may be removably attachable to the pillow body, and may have a flexible midportion that permits the attachment member to be folded in half. The pillow may include a belt having two portions that may be coupled to each other to secure the pillow body around a user. |
| US07832032B2 |
Multipurpose sleeping bag
A multipurpose sleeping bag has an opening in the center that can be drawn around one's neck in an over garment mode, or closed in a sleeping bag mode. A draw cord is employed to compress a foot portion and, optionally, a foot draft tube, into a knot-like configuration for the sleeping bag mode. For operations other than the sleeping bag mode, the foot portion is left open to form a skirt-like configuration. Another embodiment configures a multipurpose hypothermia sleeping bag, which includes flap panels positioned on the top side thereof to provide an opening for IV or catheter administration to a hypothermia patient. Each flap panel can also accept a heating device. Chest and back pockets, respectively above and below the head opening, accept heating devices to provide warmth while using the sleeping bag in an over garment mode of operation. |
| US07832031B1 |
Bunk bed with integral staircase
The bunk bed with integral staircase includes upper and lower bunks with a set of steps or stairs assembled integrally therewith as a single unit. The staircase includes a chest of drawers therein to provide storage. The staircase structure is configured to allow certain components to be interchanged from one side to the other, permitting the staircase to be assembled to either end of the bunk bed structure as desired. The drawers of the chest extend laterally from the side of the staircase, and may be removed, turned around, and reinstalled in the opposite side of the staircase as desired, according to which end of the bunks the staircase is attached. The bed structure, and particularly the lower bunk, may include additional features, such as additional storage drawers therebeneath, and/or the lower bunk may have a greater width than the upper bunk. |
| US07832030B2 |
Toilet bowl self-cleaner
A motorized toilet bowl cleaning device includes a main body having a frame that attaches to a rim of a toilet bowl; a container coupled to the main body capable of holding a cleaning solution; a dispenser coupled to the container to spray the cleaning solution; an electric motor coupled to the main body; at least one brushing arm attached to the main body, a power source for powering the electric motor; and at least one moving wheel driven by a motor such that when the main body is attached to the rim, the wheel is in engaging contact with a surface of the rim. The dispenser is positioned and angled in a manner to spray the cleaning solution onto an inside wall of the toilet bowl. |
| US07832028B2 |
Fine-bubble generator, and foot-bathing apparatus and bathing device with the same
A fine-bubble generator is capable of supplying a fluid mixed with a large quantity of fine bubbles into a fluid without causing an unnecessary liquid flow and turbulent flow in the objective fluid. The fine-bubble generator is constructed by arranging two fine-bubble generating sections in a rectangular parallelepiped casing with spouts of the fine-bubble generating sections facing each other. The fine-bubble generating sections have fluid rotating chambers each composed of a circumferential wall provided around an imaginary center line and partition walls arranged at both ends of the circumferential wall, liquid introducing passages provided so as to communicate with the fluid rotating chambers in order to introduce a liquid along a direction that forms a position twisted relative to the imaginary center line, gas introducing passages opened in the partition wall of each of the fluid rotating chambers in order to introduce a gas into each of the fluid rotating chambers, and spouts opened in the partition walls. |
| US07832022B1 |
Pants apparatus and method of use
Pants comprising an upper portion formed of a first material such as denim and a lower portion formed of a second material such as leather and connected to the upper portion along at least one seam. An inseam panel is sewn along at least one lengthwise edge of the pants spanning both the upper portion and the lower portion. At least one vent assembly may be installed in each lower portion of the pants, each vent assembly comprising a means for selectively closing the vent assembly, a cover panel formed so as to selectively cover the closure means, and an interior panel formed beneath the closure means and configured to allow air to pass therethrough upon opening of the closure means. A permanent or selectively removable lining may be installed within the lower portion of the pants, and protective armor may be installed on the pants. |
| US07832020B2 |
Protective glove having dead air space
A protective glove (10) is provided for use by a firefighter or other emergency worker. The glove (10) includes an outer shell (22), at least one liner (24, 28, 30) located inside of the outer shell (22), and a dead air space (34) located inside of the outer shell (22). |
| US07832017B2 |
Leg guard
A leg guard for a baseball catcher includes asymmetrical knee and shin portions. The knee and shin portions include a rigid plate attached to pad. The knee portion has medial extensions of both the plate and pad to provide additional protection to the medial side of the knee when the catcher is in the crouch position. Similarly, the rigid plate of the shin portion also has a generally rectangular shape, with the medial side longer than the lateral side for additional protection of the medial side of the leg. The knee portion is generally curved. This shape stabilizes and protects the knee in transitioning from the crouch position to the blocking position and from the blocking position back to the crouch position or to an upright throwing stance. |
| US07836508B2 |
Data masking application
A process for masking data that includes providing a field of data to a masking application system and replacing the field of data with identical masked data regardless of a type of application that supplies the field of data to the masking application system. The process further including forming a meta data file that has information pertaining to a format of a piece of data and a format of the masked data as output from the masking application system. |
| US07836507B2 |
Contents transmitter apparatus, contents receiver apparatus and contents transmitting method
For achieving the protection of copyright, by suppressing illegal copy production thereof, in particular, when transmitting contents with using a wired or wireless LAN, as well as, for preventing the transmission of contents from deviating from a range of a personal use thereof, a contents transmitter apparatus and a contents receiver apparatus make an authentication, mutually, before transmitting contents therebetween. At the time when conducting this authentication, measurement is made upon a time-period up to arrival of a receipt confirmation responding to the transmission of an authentication request or a response to the authentication; then, only in the case when this value measured does not exceed a predetermined upper value, the transmission is conducted on the contents encrypted, and at the same time, address information and equipment information unique to the apparatus are registered, thereby conducting the transmission of encrypted contents, but without conducting the time-measurement thereon, when transmitting the contents, again. Also, while conducting the time-measurement periodically, dynamic management is made on the registration information, so that the contents thereof are suitable for the network structure at the present. |
| US07836506B2 |
Threat protection network
Threat protection networks are described. Embodiments of threat protection network in accordance with the invention use expert systems to determine the nature of potential threats to a remote computer. In several embodiments, a secure peer-to-peer network is used to rapidly distribute information concerning the nature of the potential threat through the threat protection network. One embodiment of the invention includes at least one client computer connected to a network, a server that stores threat definition data and is connected to the network, an expert system in communication with the server. In addition, the client computer is configured to refer potential threats to the server, the server is configured to refer to the expert system any potential threat forwarded by a client computer that is not identified in the threat definition data and the expert system is configured to determine whether the potential threat is an actual threat by exposing at least one test computer to the potential threat and observing the behavior of the test computer. |
| US07836504B2 |
On-access scan of memory for malware
The present invention provides a system, method, and computer-readable medium for identifying malware that is loaded in the memory of a computing device. Software routines implemented by the present invention track the state of pages loaded in memory using page table access bits available from a central processing unit. A page in memory may be in a state that is “unsafe” or potentially infected with malware. In this instance, the present invention calls a scan engine to search a page for malware before information on the page is executed. |
| US07836489B2 |
Selecting policy for compatible communication
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for selecting policy for compatible communication. Hierarchical policy document data structures represent communication (e.g., security) aspects and options such that lower aspects and options are accessed in the context of corresponding higher aspects and options to define applicable scope. Use of a hierarchical description also facilitates separation of what is being protected from how it is being protected thereby allowing security policy to be considered at different locations of a description document. |
| US07836488B2 |
Authentic device admission scheme for a secure communication network, especially a secure IP telephony network
An admission scheme is provided for selective admission of voice data packets to a voice network from a communication network having data and voice packets. The scheme can be implemented using a device such as a network switch. According to the admission scheme, the MAC address of a device is acquired and stored upon admission of the device to the voice network. The source MAC address of data packets is checked before the packets are admitted from the communication network to the voice network. A packet is admitted to the voice network only if the MAC address is registered with the voice network. |
| US07836487B2 |
Apparatus and method for authenticating a user when accessing to multimedia services
An inter-domain authentication mechanism is provided for carrying out a cross-domain authentication for a given user between an access network domain and a Multimedia domain. The authentication mechanism is applicable where a user has been authenticated by the access network and may be implemented as a dedicated Multimedia Authentication device in close co-operation with a subscriber server, or be fully integrated in the subscriber server. The authentication mechanism is arranged for re-using authentication data between different networks, or between different technological domains, and with help from other entities of a Multimedia domain according to present standards. |
| US07836472B2 |
System and method for loading content in an in-flight entertainment system
An in-flight entertainment system is shown wherein digital content servers are interconnected with network servers such that the content servers can communicate with one another and with a portable data loader. The loader stores digital content files that are to be downloaded to the content servers. A script downloaded to each content server is executed by the server to download some of the files from the portable data loader and cross-load other files from other content servers. Alternatively, a content inventory list is downloaded to each content server that indicates which content server is to download each content file and which content servers are to receive the content file. Each content server parses the list to identify files for which it is the download server, request download of those files, identify other files that it should have and request cross-load of those files from other content servers. |
| US07836470B2 |
System and method of common synchronisation for bursts transmitted over an uplink connection in an integrated multispot satellite communication system in a multimedia broadcasting network
System and method of common synchronisation for bursts transmitted over an uplink connection in an integrated multispot satellite communication system (S) in a multimedia broadcasting network for setting up bi-directional communication with a satellite with return channel. The common burst synchronisation (4) is produced in such a way that the transmission rate in the downlink direction (P2; U2; C2) from the satellite is a whole multiple of the network clock reference. |
| US07836464B2 |
Disk holder, disk alignment mechanism and disk drive
A disk holder, disk alignment mechanism and disk drive employing same that for permitting accurate alignment of a disk are provided.The disk drive comprises a disk holder 10 that comprises a plurality of holder plates 11 that individually hold disks D, a drive unit 62 that plays back disks D, disk selectors 41A and 41B that form a space above and below a desired disk D by raising and lowering the holder plates 11, and a drive base 60 that moves the drive unit 62 into the space that is formed as a result of raising and lowering the holder plates 11. Disk hold links 17 and 18 comprising catches 17a and 18a respectively that engage with and disengage from the center hole of disk D are provided on the holder plates 11 such that the disk hold links 17 and 18 are able to turn, and a disk hold arm 16 that allows the disk hold links 17 and 18 to turn is provided so as to be able to perform a sliding movement. |
| US07836463B2 |
Optical disk drive comprising dust removing apparatus
An optical disk drive which includes a main frame, an upper case coupled to an upper portion of the main frame, and a tray slidably installed on the main frame to carry a disk. The optical disk drive also includes a plurality of projections arranged on at least a top surface of the tray to remove dust contained in air flowing inside the optical disk drive, and a dust adsorbing filter is attached to a surface of each of the projections to adsorb and/or collect dust contained in air passing through an area where the projections are arranged. |
| US07836460B2 |
Service broker realizing structuring of portlet services
The present invention relates to network computing and in particular to a method and respective system for operating a Web Services search method in a networked environment—in particular the Internet, wherein a Service Broker is requested by a Service Consumer for offering Web Services, and a Service Provider provides a requested Web Service to the Service Consumer, and wherein a Service Provider registers Web Services at the Service Broker and wherein the Web Services are implemented preferably by respective Remote Portlets running on a Portal Server of the Service Provider. In order to increase the search precision and the recall rate it is proposed to perform the steps of: a) retrieving data mining input data relating to description details of the inquired Web Services from respective Service descriptions of the inquired Web Services, b) performing a data mining function on said data mining input data, wherein a clustering is performed with a distance calculation function including said description details and wherein the clustering yields a cluster model comprising a plurality of clusters and a mapping for each Web Service to one of said clusters, wherein Web Services having a similar semantic meaning are collected in a single cluster, yielding a data mining result, c) adding cluster information comprised of said data mining result to a service model and storing this cluster information in a database, d) offering search response data based on said cluster model and service model. |
| US07836459B2 |
System and method for consolidating middleware functionality
A method for marshalling data from multiple middleware applications to an implementation includes receiving first data from a first middleware application, the first data having a first format of multiple available formats. A first path is selected from multiple paths based on the first format, the multiple paths corresponding to the multiple available formats. The first data is converted from the first format to a common format, which is compatible with the implementation, based on the selected first path. The method may further include receiving second data from a second middleware application, the second data have a second format of the multiple available formats; selecting a second path from the multiple paths based on the second format; and converting the second data from the second format to the common format based on the selected second path. |
| US07836458B1 |
Configuration system
A configuration system is described. In an implementation, a method includes determining through execution of a configuration system whether an application qualifies as a member of one or more of a plurality of groups. Each of the groups defines one or more criteria for membership and has at least one corresponding block having configuration data. The determining is performed based on whether the application satisfies the one or more criteria. For each of the groups, of which, the application qualifies as a member, the configuration data of the at least one corresponding block is loaded. |
| US07836455B2 |
Method and apparatus for signaling transmission code set in data broadcasting
A method of and an apparatus are provided for signaling a transmission code set in data broadcasting. A client using the transmission code set signaling method includes a demultiplexer demultiplexing a packetized elementary stream (PES) packet corresponding to a program selected by a user from the broadcasting stream received by the system interface, an image decoder decoding the demultiplexed PES for images, a sound decoder decoding the demultiplexed PES for sound, and a CPU fetching information about a transmission code set of a character string used in an object carousel message from the demultiplexed message PES and decoding the character string used in the object carousel message based on the fetched information about the transmission code set. |
| US07836448B1 |
System and methods for task management
In a storage area network (SAN), different tasks may expect different types of commands for commencing execution, such as interactive or offline, and may have different formats for reporting status and completion, such as log files or message based. A framework for defining the business logic enveloped in a particular task, and providing a common manner of deploying, or enabling invocation, of the task provides consistent operator control for scheduling, monitoring, ensuring completion, and tracking errors and other events. Business logic modules are identified as commands corresponding to a task. Transactions including a set of the commands define an ordered sequence for completing the task. The operator requests a particular set of tasks, using a selection tree, and the task manager builds a corresponding execution tree to identify and map the transactions and commands of the task to the execution tree to optimize execution and mitigate redundancies. |
| US07836446B2 |
Conflict management program, storage medium for conflict management program storage, conflict management method, and electronic apparatus for terminal devices
Disclosed is a conflict management program that ensures that an application can be programmed without having to consider a conflict with another application. An application manager (25) is provided with an execution list (61) for registering a currently executed application and an execution wait list (62) for registering an application on standby. In the event of an application conflict, an application management block (64) references a conflict condition table that relates to the state of the currently executed application and to the state of the application on standby, which are registered in each list (61) and (62), and determines the states (running, terminated, waiting for execution, etc.) to which the applications should switch in accordance with the priorities of the current states of the applications. An application control block (65) respectively places the applications in the states determined by the application management block (64), thereby exercising application conflict management. |
| US07836442B2 |
Out-of-band patch management system
A computer system is disclosed that includes a primary processor and a service processor operable regardless of a power state of the computer system. A non-volatile memory device is communicatively coupled to the primary processor and the service processor. The non-volatile memory device stores firmware which includes a first list of patches required for installation on the computer system and a second list of patches previously installed on the computer system. A comparator module is provided to determine whether there are patches included in the first list that are not included in second list. A boot module is provided to boot a maintenance operating system in the event the first list includes patches not included in the second list. The maintenance operating system is configured to install, on the computer system, patches included in the first list but not the second list. |
| US07836440B2 |
Dependency-based grouping to establish class identity
A method for using dependency-based grouping to establish class identity comprises categorizing a plurality of classes into a set of class groups based at least in part on one or more dependencies between the classes, and generating metadata to be use for loading the classes, where the metadata includes a mapping between the set of class groups and the plurality of classes. The metadata may also include respective signatures for class groups and/or the individual classes. The method may also include validating, using at least a portion of the metadata, the identity of a particular version of a class of the plurality of classes, prior to loading the version for execution. |
| US07836433B2 |
Analyzing binary code
The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for analyzing binary code. Binary code is received. Code analysis rules indicative of a query related to the functionality of the binary code are received. The query is implemented in analysis code configured to determine results of the query. It is determined if valid cached results for the query are cached in a results store. If not, the analysis code is invoked to determine the results for the query and the results are cached. Accordingly, when the query is received in the future, the results can be accessed from the results store without having to invoke the analysis code to determine the results. If so, the cached results are retrieved so as to avoid further invocation of the analysis code. The results are returned. |
| US07836426B2 |
Automatic generation of application domain specific graphical programs
System and method for generating an application domain specific graphical program. A graphical user interface (GUI) for specifying functionality of a graphical program in an application domain is displayed, where the GUI corresponds specifically to the application domain. User input to the GUI specifying the functionality of the graphical program is received, and the graphical program generated in response, where the graphical program is executable to perform the specified functionality, and comprises multiple interconnected graphical program nodes that visually represent the graphical program functionality. The GUI includes graphical interface elements operable to indicate and/or specify, e.g., via user input, respective attributes of the graphical program such as timing, triggering, analog and/or digital input/output (I/O), resource allocation, processing option, inclusion of one or more external files, and one or more target devices, among others, and may determine the graphical interface elements based on the specified one or more target devices. |
| US07836425B2 |
Parser, code generator, and data calculation and transformation engine for spreadsheet calculations
A system including spreadsheet sheets, makes calculations and data transformations, which is available through a programming interface, and conforms to the grammar and syntax of a target software development language is presented. The system includes an Object Model with Data Structures representing entities involved in spreadsheets. The system includes a Parser and Code Generator that extracts data from a body of spreadsheet data, instantiates instances of Data Structures of the Object Model to represent the spreadsheet data, parses the data and formulas contained in the cells of the spreadsheets, iterates through the instantiated instances of the Data Structures, and generates source code that performs the calculations and data transformations embodied in the spreadsheet data. The system includes a Calculation Engine with software base classes that implement the common structural and data access features of spreadsheet data, and further implement the operations of common spreadsheet functions and operators. |
| US07836424B2 |
Analyzing ERP custom objects by transport
The invention is directed to analyzing enterprise resource planning (ERP) custom objects by transport. A method in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention includes: providing a development box, wherein the development box includes: a listing of a plurality of ERP object modifications from a plurality of transport versions; an output including at least one of an ERP object summary and a transport summary; and a proposal for transporting of at least one of the plurality of ERP object modifications, wherein the proposal is derived from the output; providing at least one of: a test box or a production box; comparing the development box to at least one of the test box and the production box; and transporting the at least one of the plurality of ERP object modifications. |
| US07836418B2 |
Method and system for achieving power optimization in a hierarchical netlist
The invention generally relates to integrated circuit design, and more particularly to systems and methods for providing power optimization in a hierarchical netlist. A method includes generating a hierarchical netlist of the design, wherein the design includes a plurality of macros. The method also includes determining the timing slack of each path of the design. For each pin of each one of the plurality of macros, the method includes: determining the worst timing path; determining the slack value of the worst timing path; determining the subset of macros of the plurality of macros associated with the worst timing path; determining an apportionment parameter for each one of the subset of macros; determining a distribution of the slack amongst the subset of macros based upon the respective apportionment parameters; and adjusting timing assertions for each one of the subset of macros based upon the distribution of the slack. |
| US07836414B2 |
Formally proving the functional equivalence of pipelined designs containing memories
One embodiment of the present invention provides a system that formally proves the functional equivalence of pipelined designs. First, the system receives a specification for a first pipelined design, which includes a first memory system, and a specification for a second pipelined design, which includes a second memory system. Next, the system determines a correspondence between operations on the first memory system and corresponding operations on the second memory system. This correspondence enables memory operations to be represented in a combinational form based on design inputs, thereby allowing both memory systems to be logically abstracted out of their respective designs. After the memory systems have been abstracted out, the system compares the combinational outputs of the first pipelined design and the combinational outputs of the second pipelined design to verify that the designs are functionally equivalent. |
| US07836412B1 |
Transcription editing
A computer program product for use with text transcribed from audio information, the computer program product residing on a computer-readable medium, includes computer-readable instructions for causing a computer to: enable defined keystroke combinations for use in editing the text transcribed from audio, the defined keystroke combinations corresponding to formatting functions identified as frequently-used functions during editing of a transcribed text; and respond to an activated keystroke combination by replacing a first format in the text document with a second format corresponding to the chosen keystroke combination. |
| US07836402B2 |
Multiple link connector list
A comprehensive network map for a graphical user interface (GUI) of a communication network, illustrates all outside links to network devices external to said map. To this end, the connections between a network device on the map and all groups of network devices outside of the map are illustrated using an interactive multiple link connector icon associated to the network device. The connector icon comprises a button for enabling display of a multiple link connector (MLC) list. Each row of the MLC list comprises an outside link widget associated with a group identification widget. A list with all connection between the network device and an associated group of outside network devices is displayed on the map upon selection of the outside link widget on the MLC list. Furthermore, a sub-map of a group is displayed upon selection of the respective group identification widget. |
| US07836399B2 |
Detection of lists in vector graphics documents
Various technologies and techniques detect lists in vector graphics based documents and use them in meaningful ways. The system detects at least one list in a vector graphics based document using a set of rules. Pattern detection logic identifies characters, symbols, numbers, letters, and/or images that may start a list. Additional pattern detection logic determines if a list exists. The system can identify and parse bulleted lists, numbered or lettered lists, and nested lists that are any combination of both. Once identified, the content is translated into a modified format. The content can be output to a destination application in the modified format that is more suitable for output or use by the destination application. |
| US07836392B2 |
Layout information for data component
In a computer system that is configured to contain schema definitions for several data components, layout information for at least one of the data components is stored in the schema definition for the at least one data component. A method of providing display of data in a graphical user interface includes accessing layout information for a data component, the layout information being included in a schema definition for the data component, and providing, using the accessed layout information, an instance of the data component for display in a graphical user interface. A browser can parse XSD artifacts of reusable building blocks and generate a graphical user interface with the embedded relative layout information of every building block. |
| US07836390B2 |
Strategies for processing annotations
Annotation engines are described for handling annotations added to a base document. The annotation engines automatically classify the type of annotations, including, but not limited to: a highlight annotation; a blob annotation (comprising an enclosing-type annotation); an underline annotation; a vertical bracket annotation; a call-out annotation; and a free-note annotation. The annotation engines accept input in the form of a hierarchical tree of document elements and generate an output in the form of a hierarchical tree of annotation elements. Among other uses, a reflow engine can use the output of the annotation engines to properly reposition annotations within a layout-modified base document. |
| US07836389B2 |
Editing system for audiovisual works and corresponding text for television news
An audiovisual editing system that permits a journalist and other editors to edit both audiovisual and corresponding text segments included in a story. The data structure representing a story includes a list of media segments and a list of corresponding text segments. Each media segment has a type, such as script, SOT and voice, and includes a list of video clips. Each SOT segment or voice segment includes a list of timing control elements that determine the length of a media segment. The difference in the duration of the audiovisual material and the duration of the related text may be displayed to the editor, making it easier for the editor to match video to a script. Similarly, the duration of voice and SOT clips can be displayed to the editor, making it easier for the editor to match the video to the audio. |
| US07836386B2 |
Phase shift adjusting method and circuit
Method and system of adjusting a first phase shift between a first data signal and a clock signal at a sending device. First and second test signals representing first and second test data, respectively, are transmitted to a receiving device. The test signals have respective phase shifts relative to the clock signal. An error detection code is calculated from first and second received data carried by the transmitted signals. The error detection code is transmitted from the receiving device to the sending device. An estimated first received data is calculated from the error detection code, wherein the estimated first received data are calculated under the assumption that the second received data are identical to the second test data. The first phase shift is adjusted on the basis of a comparison of the estimated first received data and the first test data. |
| US07836384B2 |
Error-correction coding method comprising local error detection codes interconnected by state words, corresponding decoding method, transmitting, receiving and storage devices and program
A coding method is provided for associating redundant and source data and for carrying out a plurality of local codes associating at least one input status word and at least one output status word according to at least one label word and permutations applicable on at least certain of said words. The local codes are embodied in the form of detection codes and not error correction codes on a predetermined coding alphabet. The local codes are interconnected by the status words in such a way that at least one coding matrix is formed, each of which defining a base code. |
| US07836381B1 |
Computer readable medium with instructions for resource sharing in a telecommunications environment
A transceiver is designed to share memory and processing power amongst a plurality of transmitter and/or receiver latency paths, in a communications transceiver that carries or supports multiple applications. For example, the transmitter and/or receiver latency paths of the transceiver can share an interleaver/deinterleaver memory. This allocation can be done based on the data rate, latency, BER, impulse noise protection requirements of the application, data or information being transported over each latency path, or in general any parameter associated with the communications system. |
| US07836380B2 |
Destination indication to aid in posted write buffer loading
Embodiments of the invention are generally directed to systems, methods, and apparatuses for a destination indication to aid in posted write buffer loading. In some embodiments, a memory device includes a posted write buffer having a first element and a second element. The memory device may also include logic to detect a destination indication associated with received write data. In some embodiments, the logic determines whether to store the received write data in the first element or the second element based, at least in part, on the destination indication. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US07836377B2 |
Semiconductor memory device
A semiconductor memory device has a built-in error detection and correction system, wherein the error detection and correction system is formed to have a cyclic code, with which multiple error bits are correctable, and wherein the cyclic code is configured in such a manner that a certain number of degrees are selected as information bits from the entire degree of an information polynomial having degree numbers corresponding to an error-correctable maximal bit number, the certain number being a number of data bits which are simultaneously error-correctable in the memory device. |
| US07836376B2 |
Method and apparatus for encoding blocks of data with a blocks oriented code and for decoding such blocks with a controllable latency decoding, in particular for a wireless communication system of the WLAN or WPAN type
To control a decoding latency, larger blocks are nonequally segmented into smaller ones. The decoding process starts directly after reception of the first small block. The latency is defined by the latency of the last small block decoding. Changing the number of iterations during the turbo-code decoding also permits control of the decoding latency. |
| US07836374B2 |
Memory controller method and system compensating for memory cell data losses
A computer system includes a memory controller coupled to a memory module containing several DRAMs. The memory module also includes a non-volatile memory storing row addresses identifying rows containing DRAM memory cells that are likely to lose data during normal refresh of the memory cells. Upon power-up, the data from the non-volatile memory are transferred to a comparator in the memory controller. The comparator compares the row addresses to row addresses from a refresh shadow counter that identify the rows in the DRAMs being refreshed. When a row of memory cells is being refreshed that is located one-half of the rows away from a row that is likely to loose data, the memory controller causes the row that is likely to loose data to be refreshed. The memory controller also includes error checking circuitry for identifying the rows of memory cells that are likely to lose data during refresh. |
| US07836373B2 |
Method and apparatus for receiving data in a communication system
A method and apparatus is provided for receiving data in a receiver of a communication system. In the receiver, a first calculator calculates a Log Likelihood Ratio (LLR) value of data transmitted from a transmitter, a decoder performs iterative decoding on the transmitted data using the LLR value calculated by the first calculator. A second calculator determines whether there is an error in the decoded data by calculating an error of the data decoded by the decoder. A storage stores an LLR value of the decoded data according to the determination result of the second calculator. An adder adds up the LLR value calculated by the first calculator and the LLR value stored in the storage. A controller performs a control operation such that if the data transmitted from the transmitter is retransmitted data, the decoder performs iterative decoding using the LLR value added by the adder, and if the data transmitted from the transmitter is not retransmitted data, the decoder performs iterative decoding using the LLR value calculated by the first calculator. |
| US07836372B2 |
Memory controller with loopback test interface
In one embodiment, an apparatus comprises an interconnect; at least one processor coupled to the interconnect; and at least one memory controller coupled to the interconnect. The memory controller is programmable by the processor into a loopback test mode of operation and, in the loopback test mode, the memory controller is configured to receive a first write operation from the processor over the interconnect. The memory controller is configured to route write data from the first write operation through a plurality of drivers and receivers connected to a plurality of data pins that are capable of connection to one or more memory modules. The memory controller is further configured to return the write data as read data on the interconnect for a first read operation received from the processor on the interconnect. |
| US07836371B2 |
On-chip service processor
An integrated circuit is described that includes a stored program processor for test and debug of user-definable logic plus external interface between the test/debug circuits and the component pins. The external interface may be via an existing test interface or a separate serial or parallel port. Test and debug circuits may contain scan strings that may be used to observe states in user-definable logic or be used to provide pseudo-random bit sequences to user-definable logic. Test and debug circuits may also contain an on-chip logic analyzer for capturing sequences of logic states in user-definable circuits. Test and debug circuits may be designed to observe states in user-definable circuits during the normal system operation of said user-definable circuits. |
| US07836370B2 |
Scan test circuit, semiconductor integrated circuit and scan enable signal time control circuit
A SCAN test circuit for giving a semiconductor integration circuit a scan test includes a scan enable signal generating device that generates scan enable signals based on a scan enable external input signal, a clock generator that generate launch and capture clocks for collectively detecting a delay malfunction at a practical operation speed, and a controller configured to control the clock generator based on the scan enable signals. |
| US07836369B2 |
Device and method for configuring input/output pads
A method for configuring IO pads, the method includes determining a current configuration of multiple IO pads of an integrated circuit and whereas the method is characterized by generating multiple boundary scan register words that comprise Configuration information; and repeating the stage of serially writing a certain boundary scan register word to a boundary scan register and outputting the boundary scan register word to multiple IO pad control circuits. A device that includes a core, connected to a boundary scan register, a TAP controller and multiple IO pad circuits, the device is characterized by including a control circuit adapted to determine a current configuration of the IO pads, to generate multiple boundary scan register words that comprise configuration information; and to control a repetition of: writing a certain boundary scan register word to the boundary scan register and outputting the boundary scan register word to multiple IO pad control circuits. |
| US07836366B2 |
Defect localization based on defective cell diagnosis
Among the various embodiments described is a method of detecting defects in a cell of an integrated circuit that analyzes exercising conditions applied to an input of the cell during a capture phase of testing with failed test patterns that produce an indication of a fault and that analyzes the exercising conditions that are applied during a capture phase of testing with observable passing patterns that do not provide an indication of a fault. From the analysis, true failing excitation conditions and passing excitation conditions can be determined and used to identify whether a defect is in the cell or on an interconnect wire of the integrated circuit. |
| US07836362B2 |
Circuits and methods for repairing defects in memory devices
Some embodiments of the invention include a memory device has a number of memory segments connected to a supply source through a supply control circuit. The supply control circuit isolates a selected memory segment from the supply source when the selected memory segment is defective. The memory device replaces a defective memory segment with a redundant segment. Other embodiments are described and claimed. |
| US07836361B2 |
Apparatus and method for deciding adaptive target packet error rate in wireless communication system
An apparatus and method for deciding a target Packet Error Rate (PER) in a wireless communication system are provided. The method includes setting a target PER, comparing a variance of the target PER (Δp(k)) with a previous target PER variance (Δp(k−1)), and updating a next target PER variance (Δp(k+1)) using an average capacity and a previous average capacity in accordance with the comparison result between the target PER variance (Δp(k)) and the previous target PER variance (Δp(k−1)). |
| US07836360B2 |
System and method for intrusion prevention high availability fail over
A system and method for intrusion prevention high availability fail over. The system includes a network infrastructure which comprises a first sensor and at least one back-up sensor. The first sensor and the at least one back-up sensor are in line with a network path. The first sensor and the at least one back-up sensor are configured to share connection and session information via a communication link. |
| US07836359B2 |
Time stamping transactions to validate atomic operations in multiprocessor systems
A multi-core microprocessor has a plurality of processor cores which are coupled to a bridge element. The bridge element sends transactions to and/or receives transactions from the processor cores, where each transaction has one or more packets. The transactions include atomic transactions. The bridge element comprises a buffer unit storing a time stamp for each packet sent or received. Furthermore, a multi-core multi-node processor system is provided that has debug hardware to capture and time stamp intra-node and/or inter-node transaction packets. Atomic operations are, for example, atomic read-modify-write instructions. |
| US07836357B2 |
Error handling process
Correcting errors in data objects includes executing a main process to process the data objects, detecting an error in a first data object via the main process, sending, to an error correcting process, the data object and information associated with the error, and instantiating an instance of the error correcting process to attempt to correct the error. The error correcting process is implemented using substantially a same environment as the main process. The main process continues to execute during and after sending the data object and the information to the error correcting process and while the error correcting process attempts to correct the error. |
| US07836356B2 |
Method for monitoring dependent metric streams for anomalies
A method for monitoring dependent metric streams for anomalies including identifying a plurality of sets of dependent metric streams from a plurality of metric streams of a computer system by measuring an association of the plurality of metric streams using a statistical dependency measure analysis, wherein each set includes a plurality of the dependent metric streams and each metric stream includes a plurality of data, determining a subset of the plurality of sets of dependent metric streams to monitor by selecting a quantity of the sets of dependent metric streams that have a highest statistical dependency, cleaning the data of each set of dependent metric streams of the subset by identifying and removing outlier data, fitting a probability density function to the cleaned data of each set of dependent metric streams of the subset, wherein the probability density function is a likelihood function that provides a likelihood of an occurrence of the cleaned data, determining a detection threshold that is a lower threshold on the likelihood of the occurrence of the cleaned data of each set of dependent metric streams of the subset based on the likelihood function, detecting an anomaly if a likelihood of an occurrence of a new data of one of the sets of dependent metric streams of the subset is less than the detection threshold, and transmitting an alert signal in response to detecting the anomaly. |