| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07833299B2 |
Filters and filter assemblies with bypass seal
A filter element having a frame defining an interior volume and having exterior surfaces. Filter media is mounted within the frame so as to allow fluid to enter an upstream side of the media and exit a downstream side of the media. At least one component of a multi-component filter frame seal, the at least one component being positioned on an outer surface of the frame and substantially circumscribing the filter frame at a location selected to align to a complementary component of the multi-component filter frame seal. The complementary component is provided separately from the filter element. |
| US07833296B2 |
Reduced-emission gasification and oxidation of hydrocarbon materials for power generation
A system and process for maximizing the generation of electrical power from a variety of hydrocarbon feedstocks. The hydrocarbon feedstocks are first gasified and then oxidized in a two-chamber system and process using oxygen gas rather than ambient air. Intermediate gases generated in the system and process are recirculated and recycled to the gasification and oxidation chambers in order to maximize energy production. The energy produced through the system and process is used to generate steam and produce power through conventional steam turbine technology. In addition to the release of heat energy, the hydrocarbon feedstocks are oxidized to the pure product compounds of water and carbon dioxide, which are subsequently purified and marketed. The system and process minimizes environmental emissions. |
| US07833288B2 |
Compositions for treating keratin and methods of use
The disclosure relates to a method for applying to skin, an aqueous composition comprising one or more acid direct dyes and an organic solvent, wherein the composition has a pH of 2-6 and wherein the composition is free of anionic surfactants. The method also comprises applying the aqueous composition to the skin by spraying and further comprises rinsing the composition from skin with water. |
| US07833286B2 |
Knee cosmesis
A cosmesis including a thigh component and a shin component that fit over a prosthetic knee joint. The thigh component and shin component are pivotally joined along an axis of rotation coinciding with that of the prosthetic knee joint. The thigh component and shin component can include internal contours molded into their inside walls to seat the prosthetic knee joint securely therein. The knee ball region of the thigh component can be made relatively thicker to provide a protective cushion and allow the patient to kneel. Additionally, a floating knee cap can be fit over the knee ball area. The upper end of the thigh component can be made of sufficiently thin material to permit rolling onto itself. |
| US07833284B2 |
Anti-adhesion membrane
A membrane for implantation into a patient includes a first layer and a second layer. The first layer has oppositely disposed outer and inner first layer surfaces. The second layer has oppositely disposed outer and inner second layer surfaces. The second layer is at least partially attached to the first layer with the inner first and second layer surfaces adjacent one another. The inner first and second layer surfaces are resistant to biological tissue ingrowth and the outer first and second layer surfaces are conducive to biological tissue ingrowth. |
| US07833282B2 |
Eustachian tube device and method
Devices are provided for insertion into a Eustachian tube of an animal, e.g., a human being. The devices may include an insertable member, an immobilizing means and a fluid-communication providing means. The member has opposing surfaces and is formed at least in part from a biocompatible material that is degradable. The fluid-communication providing means is effective to provide sufficient fluid communication between the opposing surfaces of the insertable member to effect pressure equilibration therebetween. The immobilizing means is effective to immobilize the device within the Eustachian tube for a predetermined period. Also provided are kits that include the device and methods for inserting the device into a Eustachian tube. |
| US07833276B2 |
Prosthetic acetabular cup and prosthetic femoral joint incorporating such a cup
An acetabular prosthesis having an outer member for engaging the acetabulum. The outer member has a part-spherical bearing surface terminating in a distal rim. The rim has a contour such that the portion thereof to be located between the ischium and the pubis extends distally further from an equator of the bearing surface than the contour to be implanted between the pubis and the illium and between the ischium and the illium. |
| US07833274B2 |
Knee system and method of making same
A femoral prosthesis may be formed as a femoral component incorporating a base material and an articulating material. In one exemplary embodiment, the base material is a metal and the articulating material is a polymer. Specifically, the base material provides strength and rigidity to the femoral component, while the articulating material contacts a tibial prosthesis or natural tibia during joint articulation. In one exemplary embodiment, the articulating material forms the articulating surface of one or more condyle portions of the femoral component. |
| US07833271B2 |
Spinal implants with body and insert
A spinal implant is provided which maintains intervertebral spacing and stability within the spine. The spinal implant may include a body and an insert. The body of the spinal implant may be formed of a ceramic material. In some embodiments, the body may be formed of beta tricalcium phosphate. The body may include an opening that is complementary to the insert. The insert may fit within the opening. The insert may include a number of passageways. Some of the passageways may intersect to form a scaffold for bone growth. Bone growth promoting material may be introduced into the insert before the insert is positioned in a body and inserted in a patient between two vertebrae. |
| US07833269B2 |
Osteochondral implant procedure
The present disclosure includes a surgical kit for preparing a damaged area of a human knee to receive at least one graft. The kit includes a moldable material positioned over the damaged area to form a template. Desirably, a tape is placed over the template and cut to correspond to a template area so that the tape is used to determine the number and/or a dimension of the openings and the number and/or dimension of a corresponding graft to be inserted into each opening. The graft is adhered to a surface of the tape. |
| US07833266B2 |
Bifurcated stent with drug wells for specific ostial, carina, and side branch treatment
The invention is directed to a stent that delivers multiple therapeutic regimens from different regions of the stent. |
| US07833265B2 |
Vascular anchoring system and method
As described herein vascular anchoring systems are used to position an implant in a vascular area such as a bifurcated vasculature with relatively high fluid flow, for instance, in an area of a pulmonary artery with associated left and right pulmonary arteries. Implementations include an anchoring trunk member having a first anchoring trunk section and a second anchoring trunk section. Further implementations include a first anchoring branch member extending from the anchoring trunk member. Still further implementations include a second anchoring branch member extending from the anchoring trunk member. |
| US07833263B2 |
Hybrid vascular graft reinforcement
An implantable vascular graft includes an outer tube structure formed of a textile material, and an inner tube structure formed of a non-textile material. The inner tube structure is within the outer tube structure in coaxial relation therewith. One or both of the outer and inner tube structures have deformable reinforced portions incorporated therein. The deformable reinforced portions provide for conformance of the associated one or both of the outer and inner tube structures to a vessel of a patient. An implantable laminate prosthesis includes a first layer structure formed of textile material, and a second layer structure formed of non-textile material. The first and second layer structures are secured together in laminating relation. The first or second layer structure has a reinforced portion. |
| US07833262B2 |
Vascular device with valve for approximating vessel wall
A vascular device comprising a plurality of vessel engaging members and a valve. The device is movable from a collapsed insertion position having a first diameter to a second expanded position having a second diameter larger than the first diameter. The plurality of vessel engaging members extend outwardly from the device for securely engaging the internal wall of a vessel upon expansion of the device to the second expanded position, wherein the vessel engaging members pull the internal wall of the vessel radially inwardly upon movement of the device from the second expanded position toward a first expanded position having a third diameter greater than the first diameter and less than the second diameter. In the first expanded position the valve is movable between an open position to allow blood flow therethrough to a closed position to prevent blood flow. |
| US07833258B2 |
Thermal therapy device and method of use
The thermal therapy device comprises an inverter circuit connected to the primary side of a transformer, a series resonance circuit connected to the secondary side of the transformer and including a magnetic field generation coil and a resonance controller, and a controller for determining the resonance frequency based on the secondary current. The controller has a measurement mode and an operation mode which are alternately repeated. During the measurement mode the resonance frequency of the series resonance circuit is measured, while during the operation mode a drive signal of said measured resonance frequency is supplied from the controller to the inverter circuit. |
| US07833256B2 |
Elastic element for the use in a stabilization device for bones and vertebrae and method for the manufacture of such elastic element
A stabilization device for bones or vertebrae includes a substantially cylindrical elastic element. The elastic element has a first end and a second end opposite to the first end. An elastic section extends between the first end and the second end. The elastic section includes at least first and second helical coils. The first and second helical coils are arranged coaxially so that the first helical coil extends at least in a portion between the second helical coil. The elastic element may form, for example, a portion of a rod, bone anchoring element, or plate. |
| US07833252B2 |
Pivoting joints for spinal implants including designed resistance to motion and methods of use
A pivoting connector couples a vertebral member to a longitudinal member. An anchor is pivotally attached to a body by positioning a head of the anchor within a cavity in the body. A longitudinal rod is inserted into a channel also positioned within the body and axially aligned with the cavity. A retainer applies a force to maintain the longitudinal rod within the channel, however the force may be isolated from the anchor. One embodiment may include a compression member that is separate from or integral with the body. The compression member may transmit a rod securing force to the anchor to secure or limit the pivoting movement of the anchor member relative to the body. The compression member may deflect or detach under the influence of the securing force. |
| US07833248B2 |
Spinal cross-connector
A cross-connector assembly construct and a method of locking comprises a flexible clip contacting a longitudinal member; a housing component contacting the flexible clip, wherein the housing component comprises a conical ramp towards a bottom end of the housing component; a locking mechanism contacting the housing component and adapted to engage the flexible clip; and a connecting member contacting the housing component. The flexible clip comprises a flexible bias member adapted to retain the longitudinal member. The flexible clip comprises a non-symmetrical socket portion; and a clip portion attached to the non-symmetrical socket portion, the clip portion being adapted to retain the longitudinal member. The locking mechanism comprises a camming pin adapted to be housed within the housing component and engage the flexible clip causing the longitudinal member to become affixed to the flexible clip; and a blocker mechanism operatively connected to the housing component and the connecting member. |
| US07833247B2 |
Orthopedic clamps
A saddle clamp for mounting on a bone with curved surface in a bone-fixing or spinal fusion operation, for carrying a bone-fixing member. The saddle clamp has a rigid body with at least two holes for passing fixing elements to be tightened to the bone and at least one assembly element integral with the body for attaching the bone-fixing member. The rigid body has a contact surface configured to allow at least three points of contact with the curved surface of the bone when the saddle clamp is mounted thereon, at least two of the holes passing through the contact surface at least adjacent to two of the points of contact so as to provide, upon tightening of the fixing elements, at least three spaced apart, non-collinear areas of contact and thereby firm attachment of the saddle clamp to the bone. |
| US07833245B2 |
Intervertebral implant with movement resistant structure
An implant unit used in surgery has a body made from osteogenic implantable material and including an implant portion and a retaining portion, which is coupled to and extends transversely to the implant portion. The retaining portion is attached to the sidewall of the adjoining vertebral body or mammal bone to prevent displacement of the implant portion relative to the vertebral body or mammal bone and to accelerate fusion therebetween. |
| US07833244B2 |
Suture fixation device and method for surgical repair
An apparatus and method for suture fixation. A suture fixation device includes a body having an inner end and an outer end and a pathway. A restriction may be provided in the pathway that relatively freely permits movement of a suture through the pathway in a first direction and inhibits movement of the suture through the pathway in a second direction. A suture provided in a passageway formed in bone may be secured at an opening into the passageway using a suture fixation device that has a portion positioned outside of and adjacent the opening in contact with portions of cortical bone. The suture fixation device may include a flange portion adapted to be positioned outside of and adjacent a suitably sized hole formed in tissue, such as bone. An inner end of the suture fixation device may extend from the flange portion and be positioned in the hole adjacent cancellous bone. |
| US07833240B2 |
Atherectomy catheter
An atherectomy catheter includes an outer tube; an inner tube which is inserted into the outer tube rotatably about an axis thereof and axially movably; a removing member fixed to a distal portion of the inner tube and accommodated in the outer tube to drill and remove an occlusive material which stenoses or occludes a lumen of a blood vessel; and a guide member mounted on the inner tube in penetration therethrough so that the guide member functions as the axis of the inner tube when the inner tube rotates. The removing member has a developed state in which a distal end of the removing member unfolds when the removing member is projected from a distal portion of the outer tube and radially expands owing to an elastic restoring force thereof, and the removing member can drill said occlusive material in the developed state by rotating about the guide member functioning as an axis of said removing member and moving the removing member toward a distal end of the atherectomy catheter. |
| US07833239B2 |
System and method of use for revascularizing stenotic bypass grafts and other blood vessels
A system and method for opening a lumen in an occluded blood vessel, e.g., a coronary bypass graft, of a living being's vascular system. The system introduces an infusate liquid at a first flow rate to the occluded portion of the blood vessel, and withdraws that liquid and some blood at a second and higher flow rate. This action creates a differential flow in the occluded blood vessel portion and thereby prevent particles of occlusive material from flowing into any upstream blood vessel or downstream blood vessel in said living being's vascular system. |
| US07833236B2 |
Surgical suturing apparatus with collapsible vacuum chamber
A surgical suturing apparatus includes a suture housing, a needle mounted within the suture housing for movement about an arcuate path, a drive assembly operably associated with the needle for controlling movement of the needle with a suture secured thereto about the arcuate path in a manner facilitating application of the suture to tissue, and a collapsible vacuum chamber containing the suture housing. The vacuum chamber is shaped and dimensioned for coupling to a vacuum line. |
| US07833229B2 |
Apparatus for and method of providing a hip replacement
A short main incision and portal incisions at portal positions strategically displaced from the main incision are provided in a patient's hip. One portal incision (acetabular portal) provides for a disposition of reamers in the patient's acetabulum to shape the acetabulum. A cannula is inserted through the portal incision to the acetabulum and the successive reamers of progressive size are inserted into the acetabulum through the main incision to progressively size and shape the acetabulum. An approximately hemispherical acetabular component is then disposed in the prepared acetabulum to provide for hip rotation relative to the femoral component. The other portal incision (femoral portal) provides for insertion into the patient's hip of a member for driving the femoral stem into a cavity in the patient's femur. The provision of the short main incision and the portal incision minimizes the patient's loss of blood, tissue trauma, length of operating time and patient recovery time. |
| US07833226B2 |
Bone fixation device
A bone fixation device is provided that includes one or more plates and one or more screws having an arcuate outer surface. One or more fastener-receiving apertures with frustoconical inner surface extend through the plate. The bone fixation device may also include one or more locking arrangements that are configured to secure on or more screws in one or more fastener-receiving apertures. |
| US07833224B2 |
Clamping device for bone fixation elements
A device for clamping fixation elements, which have been inserted into bone, for manipulating fragments of a fractured bone. The device incorporating a hollow body with a cavity having a wall, a clamping body moveable within the cavity between a first position and a second position, and a clamping device operably connected to the clamping body for moving the clamping body between the first position and the second position. The device being sized and configured so that when the clamping body is in the first position a free end of the fixation element(s) may be positioned between the clamping body and the wall of the cavity. Once the fixation element(s) is properly positioned within the cavity, the clamping device may be used to move the clamping body into the cavity, thereby wedging the fixation element(s) between the clamping body and the wall of the cavity. A bone fragment may then be manipulated using the device. |
| US07833217B2 |
Floating spinal cannula and method of use
A spinal cannula for delivering a therapeutic agent to a spinal cord target includes proximal and distal end portions, a middle portion, and a deployable cannula member having distal and proximal end portions and a first lumen extending between the end portions. The spinal cannula includes a fluid delivery line operably connected to the proximal end portion of the deployable cannula member, and a fluid delivery line including a second lumen in fluid communication with the first lumen. The spinal cannula includes a support cannula proximally located from the deployable cannula member and securely connected to a portion of the fluid delivery line. Additionally, the spinal cannula includes a delivery cannula having distal and proximal end portions and a third lumen extending between the end portions for receiving the support cannula. The proximal end portion includes a locking mechanism for releasably engaging the proximal end portion of the support cannula. |
| US07833216B2 |
Fluid plunger adhesive dispenser
A system for dispensing an adhesive comprises a first dispenser, a second dispenser, and a conduit. The first dispenser contains an adhesive. The second dispenser comprises a fluid. The first dispenser and second dispenser are each in fluid communication with the conduit. The conduit has an opening. One or both of the first dispenser or the second dispenser is operable to dispense adhesive or fluid through the opening of the conduit. The system may be used to apply adhesive to the tissue of a patient in a precise and controlled manner. |
| US07833215B2 |
Catheter fluid lock method and device
A technique for providing a fluid lock in an indwelling catheter, such as is used in hemo-dialysis; the catheter having an annular lumen surrounding a central lumen. The annular lumen, whether used for infusion or aspiration, has a set of ports which are aligned with each other along a circular circumference so that they intersect a common plane. That common plane is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the annular lumen. The catheter is implanted into a patient's cardio-vascular system. There are substantial down times between the blood cleaning procedures for which the catheter is implanted. Fluid is injected into the annular lumen which displaces any blood in the annular lumen proximal of the set of ports. This fluid is maintained in the annular lumen displacing blood throughout the down time of the catheter thereby providing fluid lock and avoiding blood clot within the annular lumen proximal of the set of ports. The ports in the annular lumen face radially outward to assure that the port edges do not snag on tissue when the catheter is inserted. |
| US07833211B2 |
Stretch laminate, method of making, and absorbent article
A stretch laminate includes a first layer including an elastomer film, the first layer having a surface, and a second layer including a nonwoven material, the second layer having a surface that is attached to the surface of the first layer. The tensile behavior in the transverse direction of the stretch laminate is within about 2.5 N/cm of the tensile behavior in the transverse direction of the film at an engineering strain of about 1.5, and exists independent of mechanical activation. A method of making the stretch laminate and an absorbent article having at least one region defined by the stretch laminate are also provided. |
| US07833210B2 |
Tampon for feminine hygiene and process and apparatus for manufacturing the same
The invention relates to a tampon for feminine hygiene, with a tapered introductory end, a withdrawal end provided with a withdrawal means and a longitudinal axis, comprising a longitudinally extending absorbent body made from compressed fiber material, the absorbent body being densified more intensely in the region of the longitudinal axis and forming a fiber column, from which longitudinal ribs extend radially outward and flank longitudinal ribs in pairs. The tapered introductory end being formed by the to fiber column, the longitudinal grooves and longitudinal ribs is provided with collecting grooves and collecting ribs to collect menstrual secretions, wherein the collecting grooves are open axially to the front and radially outward and wherein the collecting ribs flank the collecting grooves in pairs. The invention provides for an increased absorption capacity of the tampon in relation to the weight of the fiber material per tampon. |
| US07833208B2 |
Multilayer absorbent article
An article for use in contact with a tissue layer of a person and capable of holding its position with respect to the contacted tissue layer while reducing the opportunity for damage to the tissue layer comprises a support structure and a contact layer associated with the support structure. The contact layer has an engagement surface adapted to contact the user's tissue layer. The contact layer is constructed so that the engagement surface has a first state adapted to inhibit movement of the article with respect to the tissue layer of the user, and a second state adapted to enhance movement of the article with respect to the tissue layer of the user. The engagement surface is adapted to transform from the first state to the second state upon application of a force greater than a threshold force. |
| US07833206B1 |
Method and apparatus for disposable aspirator cassette
A known disposable per use surgical primary cassette is modified to avoid contamination thereof during use by aspirated fluid from a vitreous cutter connected thereto by bypassing the aspirated fluid into a receiving chamber of a relatively less expensive disposable secondary cassette, whereby during use a vacuum produced in a chamber of the primary cassette connected to the receiving chamber of the secondary cassette in turn produces a vacuum in the receiving chamber of the latter for drawing aspirated fluid from the vitreous cutter directly into the receiving chamber. |
| US07833205B2 |
Methods for treating meibomian gland dysfunction employing fluid jet
According to the present invention, there is provided a method of treating meibomian gland dysfunction in a mammal wherein an occlusion blocks at least a portion of the flow of naturally occurring secretion out of a gland channel orifice. The invention comprises selecting a device capable of delivering a jet of heated medium. The device is positioned such that when the jet is it is applied to the exterior surface of the eyelid, proximate to the gland channel orifice, a jet of heated medium is applied to the exterior surface of the eyelid proximate to the gland channel orifice at a pressure of from about 2 psi to about 30 psi. Application of the jet of heated medium is maintained for sufficient time to loosen, break up, fracture, soften or liquefy at least a portion of the occlusion such that at least a portion of the occlusion is removed. In an exemplary embodiment, the medium is water heated to a temperature of between about 42° C. and about 46° C. Depending on the particular type and composition of the obstruction, the fluid jet operates to melt or soften the obstruction and to milkingly move the corpus of the softened obstruction up the gland channel from the end opposite the meibomian gland orifice and out of the gland orifice. Repeated application of the heated fluid jet may also be necessary to soften and/or express the obstruction. |
| US07833203B2 |
Catheter shaft with undulating surface for reduced friction
A vascular catheter which comprises a catheter shaft, said catheter defining a first surface which is of undulating shape with a plurality of curved peaks, said peaks being spaced so that a second surface in contact with the first surface is spaced from at least a substantial portion of the first surface, to reduce friction of the catheter. |
| US07833201B2 |
Flashback chamber visual enhancement
Featured is a medical infusion device for vascular access with enhanced flashback visualization that includes a hub assembly having a flashback chamber. The hub assembly includes a proximal portion, a distal portion and a substantially transparent window section intermediate the proximal portion and distal portion. A needle is coupled to the flashback chamber so that fluid flows through the lumen of the needle into the flashback chamber after the needle is inserted into a blood vessel. A contrasting member is disposed on at least a portion of the hub assembly, so that when blood enters the flashback chamber, the contrasting member provides a high-contrast background when viewed through the window section. |
| US07833199B2 |
Trocar seal with retraction induced hinge
A trocar comprising an alignment channel and an instrument seal comprising a bending portion and a base portion. The bending and base portions of the instrument seal are spaced relative the alignment channel such that when a surgical instrument is retracted the bending portion inverts and the lip does not enter the alignment channel. |
| US07833192B2 |
Device for dispensing substances
A drug dispensing system is provided that may be used universally and in which medical substances can be mixed with a carrier solution (13) in a simple manner. The device and system have a dispensing module (6) for medical substances and a hydrophilic nonwoven (14) with a carrier solution (13). The emission area of substance discharge openings (21, 22, 23, 24) of the dispensing module (6) are directed toward the nonwoven (14). |
| US07833190B1 |
Breast pump
The present invention relates to a breast pump including a cylindrical housing encapsulated by an insulated thermal layer; the housing includes an outer wall and an open top in communication with an interior chamber. Superimposed on the open top is a removable pump assembly having a pair of outlet tubes extending therefrom. At a distal end of each tube is a conical suction cup for placing over a nursing mother's breast nipple. Any one of a plurality of varying sized auxiliary containers, such as a conventional baby bottle, can be placed within the interior chamber to receive and store breast milk extracted from the breasts. |
| US07833183B2 |
Functional low-profile dynamic extension splint and methods for its use and manufacture
The present invention relates to medical devices and methods useful for improving a person's ability to grasp and release an object, and more specifically, the present invention relates to a splint for causing dynamic extension of a finger and/or thumb. |
| US07833180B2 |
Device for applying a pulsating pressure to a local region of the body and the applications thereof
The present invention generally relates to a device for applying a pulsating pressure to a local region of the body and applications thereof. The device may be used to increase the blood flow in a local region of the body, and in preferred embodiments provides a device for regulating the core body temperature of a patient. |
| US07833179B2 |
Device for applying a pulsating pressure to a local region of the body and applications thereof
The present invention generally relates to a device for applying a pulsating pressure to a local region of the body and applications thereof. The device may be used to increase the blood flow in a local region of the body, and in preferred embodiments provides a device for regulating the core body temperature of a patient. |
| US07833176B2 |
Pressure-propelled system for body lumen
A system including a guide member at least partially insertable into a proximal opening of a body lumen, the guide member including a first passageway connectable to a source of fluid pressure, an elongate carrier arranged for sliding movement through the guide member, and a piston head mounted on the carrier, wherein a greater fluid pressure acting on a proximal side of the piston head than on a distal side of the piston head propels the piston head and the carrier in a distal direction in the body lumen. |
| US07833175B2 |
Medical device coil
An intracorporeal device includes a helically wound coil having a plurality of windings having an outer perimeter and forming a coil length and a plurality of joining elements disposed on only a portion of the outer perimeter and along the coil length. Each joining element couples two coil windings. |
| US07833168B2 |
Targeted biopsy delivery system
This invention relates generally to the targeting and biopsy of tissue for medical purposes, and more particularly to a targeted biopsy system which allows planning of tissue to be sampled, targeting of specific areas of tissue in reference to the plan, capturing the tissue sample and recording the source location of the tissue sample, particularly for use in collecting tissue samples from the prostate gland. A further purpose of this invention is to provide a targeted treatment system which allows planning of tissue to be treated, targeting of specific areas of tissue in reference to the plan, and delivering the treatment to the targeted tissue. |
| US07833167B2 |
Proximal actuation handle for a biopsy forceps instrument having irrigation and aspiration capabilities
An embodiment of the invention includes a medical device. The device includes a proximal handle coupled to the proximal end of an elongated member, and a distal assembly coupled to the distal end of the elongated member. The device also includes a collar coupled to the distal assembly proximate to the distal assembly. The collar is adapted to couple the distal assembly to a medical instrument. |
| US07833161B2 |
Bone densitometer and a method thereof
The present invention provides a system for improving the accuracy of the measurement of the osteoporosis condition of the human body parts especially bones using more than three parameters, viz., the broadband ultrasonic attenuation (BUA) quantity, the velocity of ultrasound (SOS) in the bone, the broadband ultrasonic back scattering (BUB) intensity, and the Width of received maximum (WORM) values are calculated from received ultrasound signals.The accuracy of each measured diagnostic parameter is improved by measuring the tissue thickness and the squish amount in the coupling pad instead of assuming constant thickness for the tissue. The several operating modes of the device are controlled and the frequency and the timing of the emitted ultrasounds signals are adjusted by using a field programmable gate array. The error generated in the measurement of the bone mineral density due to the variation in the anatomy and the size of the foot, is removed by using a removable footpad. The present invention provides a mechanism to replace the gel pads easily. The generation of cross infection is prevented by using the disposable and replaceable coupling pads. |
| US07833158B2 |
Methods and apparatus for beamforming applications
A beamforming system includes an array of transducers that detects echo signals in a scanned region. The array of transducers produces respective electronic signals based on receipt of echo signals. The beamforming system further includes an array of multipliers (e.g., mixers) to receive the respective electronic signals (e.g., echo signals converted to an electronic form of echo signals by the transducers) from the array of transducers. A generator device of the beamforming system generates multiple oscillator signals (e.g., square wave, sine waves, pulses, etc.) based on a relatively low frequency reference signal to simulate frequencies not capable of being precisely derived from the reference signal and continuously steer a directional beam through a scanned region. |
| US07833156B2 |
Procedural cannula and support system for surgical procedures
A system for performing minimally invasive medical procedures includes an elongate support advanceable into a body cavity. The elongate support supports a frame that carries a pair of tool cannulas, each of which has a lumen for receiving a tool useable to perform a procedure in the body cavity. The frame is expandable using pivotable frame members to orient the tool cannulas such that they allow the tools to be used in concert to carry out a procedure at a common location in the body cavity. |
| US07833153B2 |
Endoscope
An endoscope includes an operation portion side member, an insertion portion side member rotatable integrally with the insertion portion, an elastic member provided in one of the operation portion side member and the insertion portion side member, a frictional surface which is provided in the other of the operation portion side member and the insertion portion side member and which generates a frictional force between the frictional surface and the elastic member when the frictional surface is pressed onto the elastic member and the insertion portion is rotated, and a movement adjusting mechanism which relatively moves the operation portion side member and the insertion portion side member to continuously adjust press force acting between the elastic member and the frictional surface while deforming the elastic member. |
| US07833149B2 |
Low profile rear tip for inflatable penile prostheses
A low profile rear tip for inflatable penile prostheses comprises a proximal end portion, and a distal end portion that is capable of being coupled to a cylinder of an IPP along a major longitudinal axis between the proximal end portion, the distal end portion, and the cylinder. A fluid chamber is provided in the distal end portion, in fluid communication with the cylinder. A fluid conduit is integrally formed with the distal end portion, having a minor longitudinal axis and being in fluid communication with the fluid chamber in the distal end portion, wherein an angle between the minor longitudinal axis and the major longitudinal axis does not exceed 5 degrees. |
| US07833148B2 |
Lumen formation-inducible material and instrument to be inserted into the body
The present invention discloses a fistula formation-inducing material having a property of forming a fistula wherein cells are exposed on at least a portion of the fistula luminal surface. This material can be inserted into a living body, using a hollow tubular member, as desired. As a result, there is provided a fistula formation-inducing material which allows the formation of a fistula, reliably lined by host cells, in a living body. |
| US07833143B1 |
Sit-up exerciser
A sit-up exerciser has a base, a seat and a footrest assembly mounted on the base, and a linkage assembly mounted between base and the seat. The linkage assembly has a handle arm, a back arm and a linking rod connected to each other. At least one rear resilient element is connected between the seat and the back arm and at least one front resilient element is connected between the footrest assembly and the handle arm. The resilient elements assist in performing sit-ups and the back arm supports a neck and vertebral column to prevent injury and damage. |
| US07833141B2 |
Exercise apparatus and methods
The present embodiments relate to an exercise device that can provide for a novel and versatile method of exercising. The exercise apparatus can be provided with a base, a connector, and a bar for spooling the connector on the bar. The exercise apparatus can be used for both stretching and strength training exercises. |
| US07833135B2 |
Stationary exercise equipment
A control system and method for exercise equipment and the like provides a way to simulate a physical activity in a manner that takes into account the physics of the physical activity being simulated to provide an accurate simulation. According to one aspect of the present invention, the control system and method takes into account the physics of the corresponding physical activity to generate a virtual or predicted value of a variable such as velocity, acceleration, force, or the like. The difference between the virtual or expected physical variable and a measured variable is used as a control input to control resistance forces of the exercise equipment in a way that causes the user to experience forces that are the same or similar to the forces that would be encountered if the user were actually performing the physical activity being simulated rather than using the exercise equipment. |
| US07833121B2 |
Gear and clutch arrangement for multi-speed transmission
A transmission is provided having an input member, an output member, three planetary gear sets, a plurality of coupling members and a plurality of torque transmitting devices. Each of the planetary gear sets includes a sun gear member, a planet carrier member, and a ring gear member. The torque transmitting devices include clutches and brakes arranged within a transmission housing. |
| US07833119B2 |
Powertrain with series electric launch and electric power assisted performance
A powertrain includes an engine with an engine output member, such as a crankshaft, and a first motor/generator having a first rotor connected to the crankshaft for rotation therewith. A transmission includes a transmission input member, a transmission output member, and a differential gearing arrangement selectively operatively connecting the transmission input member and the transmission output member. A plurality of torque transmitting devices is selectively engageable to provide a plurality of fixed speed ratios between the transmission input member and the transmission output member. A second motor/generator includes a second rotor connected to the gearing arrangement to provide torque to the transmission output member. The transmission input member is selectively connectable to the engine output member and the first rotor to alternate between a series hybrid drive mode and a fixed ratio mode of powertrain operation. A corresponding method is also provided. |
| US07833117B2 |
Handle with air conditioning system for racket, paddle or tool
A striking device such as a racquet or tool has a head portion for striking an object and an elongate handgrip with an exterior shell defining an elongate ventilation chamber having a set of air holes for ventilation purposes and to create enhanced gripping ability. An air scoop section is connected to a head end of the shell and forms two air inlets on opposite sides of the handgrip. The air scoop section includes a partition separating the two air inlets, this partition having airflow directing surfaces on opposite sides thereof. These surfaces can direct outside air in a longitudinal direction into the ventilation chamber. |
| US07833112B2 |
Golf balls having a low modulus HNP layer and a high modulus HNP layer
The present invention is directed to golf balls consisting of a multi-layer core and a cover. The multi-layer core consists of a center and an outer core layer that are both soft relative to a hard intermediate core layer. The outer core layer is preferably thin relative to the center and the outer core layer. The multi-layer core includes at least one layer formed from a low modulus HNP composition and at least one layer formed from a high modulus HNP composition. |
| US07833111B2 |
Light emitting golf ball
A light-emitting golf ball is provided. The light-emitting golf ball is characterized in that hemispherical first hollow portions extend from the surface toward the center of a core, second hollow portions having a diameter less than that of the first hollow portions extend from bottom zones of the first hollow portions toward the center of the core, narrow holes extend through the core from the second hollow portions to portions of the core that are opposed to the second hollow portions, a ball body includes a transparent cover layer extending over the core surface, chemical light-emitting bodies include sealed vessels made of a flexible transparent material, the sealed vessels have cylindrical portions and round light-emitting portions having a diameter greater than that of the cylindrical portions, the cylindrical portions are tightly fit in the second hollow portions, and the light-emitting portions are fit in the first hollow portions. The light-emitting golf ball has a brightness greater than that of conventional light-emitting golf balls and therefore can be visually identified from a distance. The light-emitting golf ball can be used many times by replacing the chemical light-emitting bodies with other ones. The balance of the ball is well maintained and therefore the flying performance thereof is not deteriorated. |
| US07833105B2 |
Bearing device for drive wheel
A bearing device for a drive wheel, wherein an annular first seal member is disposed in a clearance between a knuckle member and the outer peripheral surface of an outer ring member. A third clearance small in the radial direction and continued by the length of a first annular side part is formed between the second inner diameter surface of the knuckle member and the first annular side part. Thus, water and slurry are prevented from entering into the clearance formed around a hub bearing. |
| US07833101B2 |
Secondary game
In various embodiments, secondary players may participate in games originally played by primary players. Secondary players may make bets and receive winnings based on such games. Secondary players may participate in games from the past. Secondary players may participate in games from locations that are remote to the locations in which the games were first played. |
| US07833093B2 |
Central determination gaming system where the same seed is used to generate the outcomes for a primary game and a secondary game
A central determination gaming system wherein the same random number or game play seed is used to generate a primary or base game outcome and a secondary or bonus game outcome. The present invention includes a central computing system in communication with a plurality of gaming devices. The central computing system maintains one or more predetermined pools or sets of random number or game play seeds. In one embodiment, each game play seed is deterministic of a primary wagering game outcome and a secondary game outcome. That is, each gaming device is operable to utilize a game play seed to determine both the primary wagering game outcome and the secondary game outcome. |
| US07833091B2 |
Combine harvester clean crop elevator
A combine harvester has at least one cleaning device which includes at least one sieve and one cleaning fan, at least one conveyor device for conveying at least a portion of the crop material that exits the cleaning device into a higher region of the combine harvester and including at least one elevator having a lower intake region and an upper transfer region, the crop material being conveyed in the elevator via conveyor plates which are situated on a circulating chain, and the elevator includes, in its lower region, at least two interspaced deflection axles for the circulating chain, which are oriented transversely to the longitudinal extension of the combine harvester. |
| US07833090B2 |
Method of manufacturing ferrule assemblies
A method of manufacturing a ferrule assembly. The method including first and second polishing operations. The first polishing operation including polishing only the end face of a ferrule of an assembly. The second polishing operation including polishing only the optical fiber of the assembly. |
| US07833087B2 |
Methods and systems for marring fiber optic substrates
Methods and systems for marring fiber optic substrates may include rollers with abrasive surfaces that press lengths of the substrates against elongated supports, which may be tapered, during relative lengthwise movement between the rollers and supports; abrasive sheets that are vibrated against the substrates; abrasive flap wheels that are rotated to cause flexible abrasive flaps on the wheels to strike the substrates; rotating blades that cut a transverse marring pattern in the substrates; hammers having abrasive surfaces that are oscillated to strike the substrates; and water jet abrasive slurries that are directed at the substrates. |
| US07833085B2 |
Decorative cover for straps
A strap cover that is fastened to an underlying strap arranged across a shoulder of a wearer. The strap cover may include a decorative material, a decoration, or an overlying material that is aesthetically pleasing to a viewer. The strap cover is fastened to the underlying strap via a fastening device. The strap cover may cover a portion of a bra, a dress, a lingerie, a shirt, a tank top, a halter top and a pants that runs across a shoulder from a front of the shoulder to a back of the shoulder. |
| US07833081B2 |
Toy vehicle having fanciful facial expression
A toy vehicle includes a body supported by a plurality of wheels. The body also includes a roof and rear window supporting a plurality of user inputs. Within the toy vehicle body, a microprocessor controlled drive and steering mechanism is operative. The operation of the microprocessor is set by the user inputs. The body further supports a movable bumper mouth and movable eyes and eyebrows behind the windshield. |
| US07833078B2 |
Construction kit
Construction kit with two- and/or three-dimensional construction elements (1, 9) with magnetic elements (4) in the corners and/or sides and ferromagnetic spheres (11), which can be placed between the magnetic elements (4) of adjacent construction elements (1, 9) to connect the construction elements (1, 9) together using a magnetic bond so that they can be detached. |
| US07833077B1 |
Pixel blocks
Interlocking plastic blocks, trademarked as PIXELBLOCKS, are configured to serve as basic pixels, i.e. picture elements, in the creation of a variety of two- and three-dimensional graphic artifacts. The pixel blocks can be made in various equilateral polygonal cross-sectional shapes of designated length, typically embodied in an equilateral cube shape. All side facets in the outline of cross-sectional shape, e.g. four facets of the cube, are made identical, each facet configured with a tongue alongside a groove in a symmetrical complementary configuration such that adjacent blocks can be interlocked together to form one- and two-dimensional arrays; thus pixel blocks of uniform depth front-to-back can form two-dimensional artifacts. A 3D embodiment includes posts and post holes for Z axis attachment to form multi-layer three-dimensional artifacts. By utilizing the blocks in a variety of visual properties such as color and light transmission, quantities of pixel blocks may be interlocked together to form pictures, graphics patterns, beams and other artifacts, optionally enhanced by electric lighting effects for which the pixel blocks may be specially configured. |
| US07833076B1 |
Method of fabricating a plasma-shell PDP with combined organic and inorganic luminescent substances
A PDP constructed out of one or more plasma-shells with an organic luminescent substance(s) located in close proximity to each plasma-shell. Each plasma-shell is a hollow geometric body filled with an ionizable gas. Photons from the gas discharge inside the plasma-shell excite the luminescent substance. In one embodiment the luminescent substance is located on the external surface of the plasma-shell. In another embodiment, the luminescent substance is located inside the plasma-shell. The plasma-shell may be made of an inorganic luminescent material with organic luminescent material located on the inside or outside of the plasma-shell. Plasma-shell includes plasma-sphere, plasma-disc, and plasma-dome. The plasma-shell may be used in combination with a plasma-tube. |
| US07833075B2 |
Method for forming metal line and method for manufacturing display substrate by using the same
In a method for forming a metal line, a first metal layer and a second metal layer are deposited on a substrate. The first metal layer includes aluminum, and the second metal layer includes molybdenum. A photoresist pattern having a line-shape is formed on the second metal layer. The second metal layer is etched with a chlorine-containing etching gas using the photoresist pattern as a mask. The first metal layer is then etched with a mixture of a chlorine-containing gas and nitrogen gas and/or a mixture of a chlorine-containing gas and argon gas as an etching gas. Impurities such as chlorine ions are removed from the base substrate after etching the first metal layer with a fluorine-containing gas, hydrogen gas, or water vapor. A method for manufacturing a display substrate is disclosed using the method for forming a metal line to form source, drain, and gate electrodes and gate lines. |
| US07833068B2 |
Receptacle connector for a transceiver assembly
A receptacle connector includes a housing having a front, a rear, and a cavity configured to receive a mating connector through a slot at the front of the housing. A plurality of contacts are loaded into the cavity of the housing through the rear of the housing, and the contacts have channel portions aligned with one another. A retention plug is separately provided from the housing and securely coupled to the rear of the housing. The retention plug is received within the channel portions of the contacts and engages the contacts to hold the contacts within the cavity. |
| US07833066B2 |
Earphone jack device and portable electronic device employing the same
A portable electronic device includes an earphone jack device for connecting a plug of an earphone and a main circuit board. The main circuit board includes an audio signal processor module connected to the earphone jack device, an MSM module connected to the audio signal processor module, and a PMIC module connected to the earphone jack device. The MSM module generates a first bias voltage inputted into the audio signal processor module to actuate the audio signal processor module to play audio signals, and the PMIC module generates a second bias voltage inputted to the earphone jack device to actuate the earphone connected to the earphone jack device. |
| US07833065B2 |
Triple mating configurations of connector
An electrical connector includes: an insulative housing defining a front mating cavity; a mating tongue extending into the front mating cavity and defining thereon first and second mating faces opposite to each other, said mating tongue dividing said mating cavity into a first mating space confronting the first mating face for mating with a first complementary connector, and a second mating space confronting the second mating face for mutually exclusively mating with second and third complementary connector; a plurality of first type contacts disposed on the first mating face for connecting with the first complementary connector, a plurality of second type contacts disposed on the second mating face for connecting with the second complementary connector, and a plurality of third type contacts located between the first type contacts and the second type contacts with front ends of the third type contacts exposed to the second mating space. |
| US07833064B1 |
Foolproof multi-card connector
A foolproof multi-card connector includes a housing having two sliding grooves bilaterally arranged on the inside, multiple sets of metal terminals, a movable partition board, which has two pivots respectively inserted into the sliding grooves and movable vertically in the sliding grooves, the movable partition board having two guide blocks bilaterally disposed at the front side each guide block having a bottom guide face and an inner guide face, a hook member mounted in the housing and hooked on the movable partition board to prohibit backward displacement of the movable partition board, and spring members supported between the bottom wall of the housing and the bottom wall of the movable partition board to hold the movable partition board in a rear up and front down position. Based on this arrangement, the foolproof multi-card connector prevents erroneous insertion of a card member and prohibits insertion of a second card member after insertion of one first card member. |
| US07833059B2 |
Lamp socket
A lamp socket has a housing forming a cavity centered on an axis and having a generally cylindrical side wall and a floor, an internally threaded sleeve coaxially received in the cavity, a central socket contact on the floor at the axis, and an annular disk separate from the housing, surrounding the central contact. The disk is formed on the axis with a central aperture and is spaced at the aperture substantially further from the floor than the central socket contact. Thus only a lamp base with a central lamp contact on an extension stem can fit in the socket and engage through the aperture and past the disk to make contact with the central socket contact. |
| US07833058B2 |
Micro plug connector
A micro plug connector has an insulative housing, a plurality of terminals, a pair of positioning hooks and a metal shell. The insulative housing has a base and a tongue protruding from the base. The terminals and positioning hooks are mounted through the base into the tongue. The metal shell covers the insulative housing and has a front cover and a rear cover. The front cover is mounted around the tongue and has a connecting plate protruding from the front cover and partially covering the bottom of the base. The rear cover formed on the front cover and covers the base and the connecting plate of the front cover. The front and rear covers double cover the insulative housing to strengthen the structures of the micro plug connector and prevent inadvertent disassembly or failure of the micro plug connector. |
| US07833057B1 |
Receptacle connector
A receptacle connector includes an insulating body having a base portion, and a shell enclosing the insulating body. Two opposite side surfaces of the base portion respectively define an inserting passage extending longitudinally and having a front end opened freely. A front of each inserting passage is provided with a preventing block. A fixing cavity is formed in a rear of the inserting passage by the partition of the preventing block. The preventing block has a guiding surface inclined outward from front to rear. The shell has two side boards against the corresponding side surfaces of the base portion. Two fixing portions are protruded inwardly from two substantially corresponding portions of two bottom edges of the side boards for gliding along the corresponding guiding surfaces in the respective inserting passages to buckle into the corresponding fixing cavities and then restrained by the preventing blocks in the fixing cavities. |
| US07833053B2 |
Connector having conductive member and method of use thereof
A connector having a conductive member is provided, wherein the connector comprises a connector body capable of sealing and securing a coaxial cable, and further wherein the conductive member, such as an O-ring, physically seals the connector, electrically couples the connector and the coaxial cable, facilitates grounding through the connector, and renders an electromagnetic shield preventing ingress of unwanted environmental noise. |
| US07833050B2 |
Apparatus and method of zeroing a test instrument
An apparatus and method for shorting together a plurality of electrical leads. The apparatus includes an electrical conductor that extends between first and second ends and a first surface and a second surface facing away from the first surface. The electrical conductor includes a central bight that is disposed between the first and second ends and has a concave contour that defines a portion of the first surface. The electrical conductor also includes first and second bights that have convex contours that define portions of the first surface. The first bight is disposed between the central bight and the first end and the second bight is disposed between the central bight and the second end. The electrical conductor also includes a first and second contact segments that are respectively disposed between the first and second bights and the first and second ends. |
| US07833047B2 |
Spring part for retaining electric wires and terminal block comprising said spring part
Spring part for retaining wires inside electric terminal blocks, comprising a conductor body substantially in the form of an overturned “U”, with a vertical arm substantially parallel to the vertical direction and a second arm forming an acute angle with the vertical arm and having a free end. The two arms being connected together by a convex curved section adapted to produce a resilient reaction of the second arm with respect to the vertical arm. The vertical arm can be joined to a U-shaped base formed from a first vertical arm, connected to the vertical arm of the conductor body, a second vertical arm having a free end and a longitudinal section connecting the two vertical arms. The U-shaped base being designed for stable engagement with a conducting part of the electric terminal block. |
| US07833044B2 |
Connection system and squib connector therefor
The invention relates to a squib connector for mating with a squib holder and to a corresponding, connection system. system according to any of the preceding claims, said connector. The inventive squib connector is adapted to be used for an inventive connection system between a squib connector and a complementary squib holder, said connection system has one locking means (134, 135, 211) and one unmating means (180), said locking means being adapted to be automatically actuated by the consolidation of the squib connector with the squib holder for automatically and securely locking the squib connector and the squib holder in fully mated condition and to be deactivated by the selective actuation of the unmating means necessary for separating the squib connector and the squib holder. |
| US07833043B2 |
Socket connector
A socket connector configured such that elongated guide holes are formed in the housing so as to receive guide members of a device to be connected, and a slide member is attached to the housing to be slidable in the longitudinal direction of the elongated guide holes so as to restrict the guide members to their initial positions. The socket enables direct placement of the device on the housing, can shorten the projection length of projection terminals of the device, can facilitate positioning of the device to thereby enhance the easiness of attachment operation, can prevent bending of the projection terminals, can cope with an increase in density of the projection terminals, and has a simple structure. |
| US07833034B2 |
Electrical contactor
In an electrical contactor a first terminal (5) is connected to a pair of contacts (3, 4) on opposite faces of a fixed conductive member (2). A second terminal (6) is connected to a pair of movable arms (7, 8) of electrically conductive material carrying movable contacts (9, 10) at an end remote from the connection to the second terminal (6). The movable arms (7, 8) are arranged in aligned opposition to each other and such that their remote ends are on either side of the fixed member (2) with the movable contacts (9, 10) aligned with the fixed contacts (3, 4). The arrangement of the fixed member (2) and movable arms (7, 8) is such that when the contacts are closed current flowing through the movable arms produces a force that urges the movable arms towards each other thereby increasing the force between the fixed and movable contacts. In such a contactor overload currents cause the contact force to increase due to the attractive electromagnetic force produced between the arms (7, 8) by currents flowing in the same direction in the arms (7, 8). |
| US07833029B2 |
Wireless communication terminal with a cover moving in conjunction with a connector unit to open and closed positions
A wireless communication terminal includes a terminal body having an arrangement portion, a connector unit hinge-connected to the terminal body and able to be accommodated in and taken out of the arrangement portion, a cover unit to move on the terminal body to cover and uncover the arrangement portion, and a guide unit to hold the cover unit in an open position, and to guide the cover unit into a closed position in conjunction with a movement of the connector unit. The cover unit includes an embedded intenna, and the connector unit includes a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connector to provide a wireless communication function. |
| US07833028B1 |
Wireless receiving and transmitting device having an exposed projection structure for user to hold
A wireless receiving and transmitting device includes a casing unit, an antenna unit, a substrate unit, a projection unit and an electrical connector unit. The casing unit has a casing. The antenna unit has an antenna module fixed in the casing. The substrate unit has a circuit substrate movably disposed in the casing and electrically connected to the antenna module. The projection unit has a projection element positioned on one end of the circuit substrate. The projection element has a bottom portion selectively exposed outside the casing or hidden in the casing according to the move of the circuit substrate, and the projection element has a top portion always exposed outside the casing. The electrical connector unit has an electrical connector position on another end of the circuit substrate, and the electrical connector is selectively exposed outside the casing or hidden in the casing. |
| US07833021B2 |
Burn-in socket with adapter for loading IC package
A burn-in socket for receiving an integral circuit (IC) package comprises a base defining a cavity for receiving the IC package and an adapter retained in the cavity. The adapter has two-pieces configuration and comprises a loading board for loading the IC package and a positioning board assembled upon the bottom plate of the loading board for positioning the IC package. |
| US07833018B2 |
Interface device and method for interfacing instruments to medical procedure simulation systems
An interface device and method for interfacing instruments to a medical procedure simulation system serve to interface peripherals in the form of mock medical instruments to the medical procedure simulation system computer to enable simulation of medical procedures. The interface device includes a housing having a mock bodily region of interest to facilitate insertion of a mock instrument, such as an endoscope tube, into the interface device. The mock bodily region of interest may be pivotable to simulate various patient orientations. The instrument is engaged by a capture mechanism in order to measure rotational and translational motion of the instrument. An actuator is disposed within the interface device to provide force feedback to the instrument. The measured motion is provided to the computer system to reflect instrument motion on the display during the simulation. Alternatively, the interface device may be configured to accommodate instrument assemblies having a plurality of nested instruments (e.g., sheath, catheter and wire), whereby the interface device individually grasps, measures manipulation of and provides force feedback to the nested instruments. In addition, the interface device may be configured to simultaneously accommodate a plurality of independently inserted instruments. |
| US07833012B2 |
Process and apparatus for calcining solids or sludges
The invention relates to a process and an apparatus for calcining solids or sludges in a multiple-deck furnace having a firing region, which has at least one upper heated hearth and at least one lower heated hearth, and having a cooling region, which is provided with one or more unheated hearths, material to be calcined passing first into the firing region and then into the cooling region. A portion of the material to be calcined is delivered to the at least one lower heated hearth and/or to the cooling region, bypassing the at least one upper heated hearth of the firing region. |
| US07833010B2 |
Natural gas injection system for regenerative thermal oxidizer
The present invention provides a system and method for injecting natural gas in an RTO. The RTO may be, for example, a known type that has a rotary distributor, a center section divided into pie-shaped segments above the rotary distributor, a heat exchanger section above the center section, and a combustion chamber above the heat exchanger. According to an aspect of the invention, the system introduces gas into segments of the center section in a sequenced manner via cycling on/off control valves. In a particular embodiment, the natural gas is injected at a specific location of a respective segment within the center section that is past the rotary distributor seals and directly under the bottom of the heat exchanger bed. According to the injection sequence, the injection of natural gas into the segment commences when the segment begins to receive inlet waste gas streams, and injection ceases before the flow through the sector changes or stops. In an embodiment, each injection cycle may last a predetermined time to preferably achieve a constant flow of natural gas in the intake stream of process air as the rotary distributor delivers such flow sequentially among the segments. |
| US07833009B2 |
Oxidant injection method
A method of combustion in a furnace comprising a firing zone and an exhaust zone, three oxidants and fuel comprising the steps of: introducing fuel into said firing zone; introducing a first oxidant into the firing zone; introducing a second oxidant into the firing zone; and introducing a third oxidant into the exhaust zone; wherein during said step of introducing a first oxidant, the step of introducing a second oxidant, and the step of introducing a third oxidant occur. |
| US07833001B2 |
Three-dimensional object printing system
A printing system for creating a three-dimensional object. The printing system includes a plurality of printheads including a first printhead configured to print a first material and a second printhead configured to print a second material. The system includes one or more curing mechanisms for curing the printed materials. The system includes at least one object incorporation device configured to incorporate a non-printed object into the three-dimensional object when partially complete. At least one printhead is configured to print one or more electrical connections to the incorporated object. |
| US07832999B2 |
Method of forming a coating layer on the surface of a molded product within a mold
An in-mold coating apparatus providing a mold having a specifically formed auxiliary cavity and an in-mold coating formation method which employs said mold, so that it is possible to prevent a coating material from leaking out of the mold, thereby shortening the molding formation cycle, and making it possible to manufacture a molded product having a stabilized quality. In addition, by using a mold having a specifically shaped sub-cavity, there is provided a still further in-mold coating formation method which can keep mold temperature at a relatively low value, cause the coating material to cure at a predetermined temperature and within a predetermined time period thereby shortening the molding formation cycle, improving the productivity, improving the physical properties of a coating layer, thus obtaining a good molded product. |
| US07832997B2 |
Variable capacity gerotor pump
A variable capacity gerotor pump includes an inner rotor that is axially displaceable with respect to the outer rotor to vary the volumetric capacity of the pump. An active piston abuts the lower surface of the inner rotor and can ride inside the outer rotor, as the inner rotor is axially displaced, to provide the necessary scaling of the lower surface of the inner rotor with respect to the outer rotor. A passive piston, against which a return spring acts, abuts the upper surface of the inner rotor to provide the necessary sealing of the upper surface of the inner rotor with respect to the outer rotor. In an embodiment, a control chamber, supplied with pressurized working fluid, generates a force acting against the force of the return spring to move the inner rotor to reduce the volumetric capacity of the pump. In another embodiment, a control mechanism, such as an electric solenoid or mechanical mechanism, acts on the control piston against the force of the return spring. |
| US07832991B2 |
Air compressor with removable manifold
An air compressor assembly includes a compressor configured to provide a source of compressed air and a manifold assembly removably coupled to the compressor and configured to distribute the compressed air to one or more pneumatic tools. The manifold assembly is configured to be coupled to the compressor via an air conduit when the manifold assembly is detached from the compressor so that the manifold assembly is operable at a location remote from the compressor. |
| US07832983B2 |
Nacelles and nacelle components containing nanoreinforced carbon fiber composite material
This invention is directed to nacelles and nacelle components for use in aircraft engines. The nacelles and components comprise composite material containing carbon fiber. The carbon fiber comprises from 0.1 to 20 percent by weight nanoreinforcement material. |
| US07832982B2 |
Centrifugal fan
A centrifugal fan comprises a casing (2) and an impeller (5) that is mounted in the casing (2) and turns about a defined axis of rotation (X). The casing (2) has an axial inlet opening, through which air is drawn in, and a tangential air discharge opening (7). The tangential discharge opening (7) is delimited by a first edge (8) that is substantially parallel with the axis of rotation (X) and is located in the vicinity of the impeller (5), by a second edge (9) opposite the first edge (8) and spaced from the impeller (5) and by two lateral edges (10), each joining the first edge (8) to the second edge (9). The centrifugal fan also comprises an appendage (12) located in the vicinity of the tangential discharge opening (7), delimited by the first edge (8) and having a convex surface (16) inside the casing (2) and a connecting surface (15) between the convex surface (16) and the first stage (8). |
| US07832980B2 |
Method and system for monitoring fluid levels in wind turbine component systems
A wind turbine comprising a system for monitoring at least one wind turbine component including a closed fluid circulating system with a fluid reservoir. The monitoring system comprises establishing a level value of the fluid systems reservoir, and establishing at least one environmental value of the fluid systems reservoir or the surroundings of the system. The level value and the at least one environmental value contributing to defining the fluid systems functionality, and the monitoring system further comprises establishing a monitoring value on the basis of the level value and the at least one environmental value. |
| US07832978B2 |
Apparatus for forming stacks of panels and feeding them to a user station
An apparatus for forming stacks (2) of panels (3) from a vertical pile (4) of panels (3) to be fed to a user station comprises: a crossbar (5) that moves above the pile (4) of panels (3) and mounts selector means (6; 7, 8) designed to separate a certain number of panels (3) from the top of the pile (4); first gripper means (9; 10) and second gripper means (11; 12, 16) for clamping the panels (3); the selector means (6; 7, 8) include a first wedge-shaped selection element (8) that can be inserted between the panels (3) in the pile (4) to create a gap; the apparatus (1) also comprises second selector means (16) mounted on the crossbar (5) and mobile in a feed direction (40) and relative to the crossbar (5), lengthways along the crossbar (5) itself in a first horizontal direction (13), in such a way that they can be inserted into the pile (4) next to the first wedge-shaped element (8) at the gap so as to completely separate the pile (4) at a point away from the first wedge-shaped element (8) by sliding in the first horizontal direction (13). |
| US07832977B2 |
Stacker carts, printing apparatuses, and methods of stacking media on stacker carts
Stacker carts for stacking media, printing apparatuses, and methods of stacking media on stacker carts are disclosed. An embodiment of the stacker carts includes a stacking surface including a first end and an opposite second end, the stacking surface sloping downwardly from the first end toward the second end; and a resiliently-biased stop at the second end of the stacking surface, the stop including at least one contact surface defining a height of the stop above the second end of the stacking surface. When the contact surface is in contact with a first surface, a height of the stop (i) decreases as the stacker cart is moved toward the first surface, and (ii) increases as the stacker cart is moved away from the first surface. |
| US07832974B2 |
Pipe-handling apparatus
A pipe-handling apparatus for moving a pipe to and from a drilling floor of a drilling rig includes a main support structure, a ramp extendable between the main support structure and the drilling floor, a pipe carrier mounted on the main support structure for moving relative thereto between a lower position and an elevated position over the ramp, the carrier including a ramp end adjacent the ramp, an far end, and an elongate indentation on its upper surface to accommodate a pipe therein, a lift arm including a first end and a second end, the lift arm being pivotally connected at its first end adjacent the far end of the carrier and operable below the carrier to lift and support the carrier's far end to an elevated position, a track on the main support structure for supporting axial sliding motion of the carrier and the lift arm therealong, the track including a stop for limiting axial movement of the second end of the lift arm along the track toward the ramp, and a drive system for pulling the carrier from the lower position to ride along the ramp to an elevated position, the drive system capable of pulling the lift arm along the track until it is stopped against the stop in track and to continue pulling to cause the lift arm to be pivoted up about the stop to lift the far end of the carrier. |
| US07832972B2 |
Internal pocket fastener system for ceramic matrix composites
A fastener system provides an internal pocket within a CMC component into which a fastener is inserted through an internal pocket opening and loaded to secure the CMC structure to a support structure. |
| US07832971B2 |
Threaded element
A threaded element (1) is provided having at least two slots (3), notches, grooves or the like that intersect the thread (2). The slots (3), notches, grooves or the like are configured in relation to the thread (2) so that they intersect the thread (2) to form a sharp cutting edge on the thread flanks (4), thus preventing reverse rotation. The slots, notches or grooves have no more than 25-times the pitch and the same rotational direction as the thread. |
| US07832968B2 |
Milling method for the production of components
In a milling method for producing a structural component from a raw material by chip-cutting, a milling tool is moved along at least one defined tool path for the milling. In addition to the at least one tool path, at least one collision contour is also defined. The position or orientation of the milling tool relative to the collision contour(s) is monitored. The position or orientation of the milling tool is changed and/or an error message is generated if at least one of the collision contours is damaged, i.e. intersected, by the milling tool. |
| US07832966B2 |
Drill for making flat bottom hole
The present invention is directed to a helical drill configuration that allows substantially flat bottomed holes to be machined. At the cutting end of the body member, there are at least two cutting edges that are symmetrically oriented on opposing sides of the rotational axis of the drill. In an embodiment of the invention, first and second cutting edge portions form a continuous surface which provides strength and tool stability. The height of the second portions of each of the cutting edges remains relatively consistent along the horizontal for formation of a generally flat bottom hole. In the embodiment, a center point is defined by two sloped peak surfaces. A central straight chisel edge is formed by the intersection of the two sloped peak surfaces. The first cutting edge section extends from the chisel edge to the second cutting edge section. The first cutting edge section for both cutting edges is formed by symmetrically thinning the two peak surface. In the invention, stress at the center portion of the helical cutting tool is limited by the chisel edge and first sections of the cutting edge near the center portion having a balanced geometry. The balanced geometry of the helical drill also prevents the drill from wobbling and creating deviations in the hole being formed. The chisel edge may blend with a first curvilinear cutting edge and the first curvilinear cutting edge may also have a positive rake to promote cutting. |
| US07832965B2 |
Drill
A drill has a housing formed with an outlet hole, a fan expelling an air stream from the outlet hole, a drive spindle projecting from the housing adjacent the outlet and centered on and rotatable about an axis, and a chuck body carried on the housing. A tightening sleeve rotatable about the axis on the chuck body carries a plurality of radially shiftable jaws, and interengaging screw formations operatively engaged between the body and the sleeve can shift the jaws radially in the guides on rotation of the sleeve relative to the body. A shield sleeve angularly fixed to the housing and surrounding the tightening sleeve has a rear end juxtaposed with the housing radially outside the outlet hole such that the air stream enters the shield sleeve. Inside the shield sleeve forward of its rear end a passage and a particle-expelling hole collect drilling particles and blow them out the particle-expelling hole. |
| US07832964B2 |
Turning tool and a turning insert
A turning tool including a basic body having an insert seat, an indexable turning insert having a triangular basic shape, and a tightening element fixing the turning insert in the insert seat. The insert includes an upperside and an underside between which three side surfaces extend that are situated in a first imaginary, equilateral triangle and therefore converge in pairs at an angle of 60° toward corners in which cutting edges are included. The turning insert is engaged with the insert seat via an interface that includes elongate and straight, female-like and male-like engagement members, which are in engagement with each other in order to prevent turning of the turning insert. The insert seat includes a supporting surface having a corner section against which an active corner of the turning insert is applied. The insert seat includes a single active engagement member, which is spaced-apart from the supporting corner section, and is in engagement with one of three engagement members included in the turning insert and located in a second imaginary triangle having an equilateral shape, which is smaller than the first imaginary triangle and rotated in relation to the first imaginary triangle. |
| US07832962B1 |
Sand slurry injection systems and methods
A sand slurry injection system and/or method can include mixing a drilling mud inhibitor with water to form a water mixture; mixing the water mixture with sand to form a sand slurry; and injecting the sand slurry into an unstable ground subsurface area to stabilize the area. The water mixture can be pumped under pressure into the bottom and/or into the middle of the hopper to help maintain the sand slurry in suspension. The water mixture can be pumped into two opposed injection ports at each of the bottom and the middle of the hopper. The two upper injection ports can be oriented at a 90 degree angle from the two bottom injection ports. |
| US07832959B1 |
Method of restoration of a highly saline lake
A method of restoring a lake that has a high saline level is disclosed herein. In order to restore the lake, a series of concentric dikes or levees are provided that separate the lake into a plurality of smaller lake sections, each having a water surface. The smaller lake sections include an outer lake section which is next to the periphery of the lake and one or more inner lake sections. Each dike and each smaller lake section water surface have an elevation. Water is flowed from an influent source to the outer lake section and then to each of the inner lake sections. The outer lake section surface has a higher elevation. The inner lake section surfaces have cascading lower surface elevations. At a central area, a breathing brine area is provided that is surrounded by the smaller lake sections to provide an area that can be used to concentrate brine. The smaller lake sections can have differing salinity levels for sustaining diverse marine and plant life. |
| US07832958B2 |
Swing-out manhole cover
A swing-out manhole cover assembly having at least one ramp to facilitate opening and closing the cover. The manhole cover assembly includes a frame, a cover, a swing assembly and at least one ramp. As the cover swings open away from the frame about the swing assembly, the ramp imparts linear translation to the cover separating the cover from the frame slightly. As the cover swings back to close the manhole cover, the ramp reverses the linear translation and the cover returns back to the frame. A spring may be included to bias the cover in the closed position. |
| US07832957B2 |
Removable barricade system
A removable barricade system. The system having a first sleeve to be affixed to a first bollard, a second sleeve to be affixed to a second bollard, and a barricade attached to the first and second sleeves. The barricade blocks the area between the first and second bollards. |
| US07832955B1 |
Windshield ice scraper with de-icing solution dispenser
An apparatus to aid in the removal of ice buildup from motor vehicle windshields includes an ice scraper with an integral sprayer for dispensing de-icing solution. The handle of the ice scraper contains a reservoir filled with de-icing solution with a spray pump trigger, or battery-powered spraying system, for spraying fluid upon the windshield to aid in the de-icing process. A screw cap, located on the handle, is used to refill the invention when the reservoir is depleted. A detachable snow brush is also provided. The apparatus allows drivers in cold weather climates the ability to efficiently remove ice buildup from their vehicle windshield. |
| US07832947B2 |
Driving mechanism
A driving mechanism includes a driven member partially having a spherical surface, piezoelectric units that support the driven member between them and drive the driven member, and a base that holds the piezoelectric units. Each of the piezoelectric units includes a driving portion having a flat surface in contact with the spherical surface of the driven member, a first piezoelectric element that moves the driving portion along a first axis parallel to the flat surface, a second piezoelectric element that moves the driving portion along a second axis that is parallel to the flat surface and intersects the first axis, and a support member that supports the driving portion through the first and second piezoelectric elements. |
| US07832946B2 |
Transport system for monitoring industrial processes
A system transports a device into a piece of industrial equipment for the purpose of collecting data inside of the industrial equipment. In an embodiment, the industrial equipment is a furnace and the device is an IR camera. The system opens a door covering an opening on the furnace, moves the IR camera inside of the furnace for a short time, the IR camera captures images, and the system removes the camera from the furnace and closes the door. |
| US07832945B2 |
Lens barrel, camera and portable information terminal apparatus
A lens barrel includes a telescopic cylinder, at least one movable lens, and a retractable lens. The telescopic cylinder includes at least one movable cylinder that can be accommodated in a fixed cylinder. The movable lens is retained in the movable cylinder. An optical axis of the movable lens determines a reference axis of the lens barrel. The retractable lens can be retracted in a plane perpendicular to the reference axis from a photographing position on the reference axis to a retracted position off the reference axis. In a photographing state, the retractable lens is adjacent to the movable lens, and the movable lens and the retractable lens are coaxially aligned along the reference axis. The retractable lens moves to the reference axis from the retracted position immediately after the movable cylinder of the movable lens reaches a maximum protruded position. |
| US07832940B2 |
Method of producing rolling bearing device
An inner ring is fitted on one-end side of an inner shaft and fixed to the inner shaft by caulking. During the caulking, the inner shaft is supported by a caulking receiving jig. A receiving section to which the jig is in contact is provided at a position near the one-end side of the inner shaft, for example, at a position nearer to the inner ring than a raceway section formed on the outer periphery on the other side of the inner shaft. As a result, a caulking load acting from a caulking jig on the inner shaft plastically deforms only a desired portion. |
| US07832933B2 |
Wear resistant foil bearing assembly
A foil bearing assembly for supporting a rotating member that rotates about an axis including a stationary mount member spaced from the rotating member so that a gap is defined between the stationary mount member and the rotating member. A foil member is disposed in the gap between the rotating member and the stationary mount member. At least one of the rotating member, the stationary mount member or the foil member includes a wear resistant coating layer. |
| US07832928B2 |
Dark correction for digital X-ray detector
A method of forming an offset-corrected exposure image includes obtaining an initial exposure image and exposure metadata related to the initial exposure image. An intermediate offset-corrected exposure image is formed by obtaining one or more dark images associated with the initial exposure image and subtracting an averaged value of the one or more dark images from the initial exposure image. The offset-corrected exposure image is obtained by combining an offset adjustment map with the intermediate offset-corrected exposure image. |
| US07832924B2 |
Timepiece
A timepiece having a mainspring, an output wheel that is rotated by torque output from the mainspring, a lever that pivots synchronously to the output wheel, and a pressure member that pushes the lever. The pressure member pushed the lever so that the output torque of the output wheel increases as the mainspring unwinds. |
| US07832922B2 |
Mixing apparatus and container for such
A mixing apparatus is proposed having a container (2) for the mixing of media which has at least one inlet (31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36) for the media to be mixed or at least one outlet (4), with a central cut-out (5) being provided which extends in a longitudinal direction (A) into the container and is bounded relative to the inner space (6) of the container (2) by a wall (51), with a permanently magnetic mixing member (7) being provided in the container (2) adjacent to the cut-out (5) for the mixing of the media, and with a drive unit (8) being provided in the cut-out (5) by which the mixing member (7) can be set into rotation via a magnetic coupling. The drive unit (8) is movably arranged in the cut-out (5) such that the position of the mixing member (7) in the container is variable in a controlled manner. |
| US07832920B2 |
Mixing device for creating an output mixture by mixing a first material and a second material
A mixing device for mixing a first and second material together to create an output mixture. The device includes a first chamber containing the first material coupled to a mixing chamber defined between a rotor and a stator. The rotor is disposed inside the stator and rotates therein about an axis of rotation. The first chamber houses an internal pump configured to pump the first material from the first chamber into the mixing chamber. The pump may be configured to impart a circumferential velocity into the first material before it enters the mixing chamber. At least one of the rotor and stator have a plurality of through-holes through which the second material is provided to the mixing chamber. Optionally, a second chamber is coupled to the mixing chamber. The second chamber may house an internal pump configured to pump the output material from the mixing chamber into the second chamber. |
| US07832913B2 |
Equipped flexible electronic support, supporting at least one light emitting diode, and the associated manufacturing method
A motor vehicle light comprising an equipped flexible electronic support that comprises: a flat flexible insulating support equipped on a first face with a plurality of flat conductive tracks; at least one light source of the light emitting diode type disposed on the first face of the flexible insulating support; wherein a second face of the flexible insulating support is covered with a layer of thermally conductive material for dissipating the heat produced by the light emitting diodes, the layer comprising an area of contact with the diode and an extended area extending out of this contact area, the dissipation of the heat taking place essentially at this extended area. |
| US07832910B2 |
Lighting fixture having mechanical and electrical interlock and disconnect
A lighting fixture stanchion arm generally includes a housing, a guard lever supported in the housing, a switch mechanism supported in the housing and a locking pin. The housing has an entry for receiving a radial finger of a fixture head and an aperture for receiving the locking pin. The guard lever is movable from a home position to an away position by the radial finger of the fixture head upon rotation of the fixture head with respect to the housing, wherein the guard lever blocks the locking pin aperture of the housing when in the home position. The locking pin is insertable in the locking pin aperture of the housing for actuating the switch mechanism when the lever guard is moved to the away position by the radial finger of the fixture head. |
| US07832903B2 |
Illumination system fitted with a therapeutic/prophylactic filter for healthy eyes, pseudoaphakic eyes or eyes suffering neurodegeneration
A device is provided for the treatment and prophylaxis of healthy eyes, pseudoaphakic eyes and/or eyes suffering macular and retinal degeneration that comprises a yellow filter applied to a conventional illumination system to protect them from short wavelengths of the visible spectrum under 500 nm and preferably in the range of 350 nm to 500 nm. This device the difficulties and risks of existing ways of protecting eyes undergoing cataract surgery and prevents or improves the degeneration of healthy eyes and those suffering neurodegeneration by the simple application of a protective filter to any lighting system. Embodiments of the invention comprise combining a conventional light source with a conventional yellow filter that absorbs wavelengths of light shorter than 500 nm so that the filter completely covers the illumination source. |
| US07832902B2 |
Heat resistant color mixing flag for a multiparameter light
A dichroic color mixing flag for a multiparameter light is constructed that greatly improves the thermal shock tolerance of the flag and avoids having to use a more costly quartz substrate material. The dichroic color mixing flag may be substantially circular in shape. The dichroic color mixing flag may be fixed to a mechanical component so that the flag cannot rotate with respect to the mechanical component. The dichroic color mixing flag may be fixed to the mechanical component so that the mechanical component can move the dichroic color mixing flag without moving any other dichroic color mixing flag. |
| US07832900B2 |
Lightbulb with envelope-fracture responsive electrical disconnect means
A safety lightbulb includes a base, a glass envelope connected to the base, and electrical contacts extending from the base into the glass envelope and electrically connected to a filament for producing light in the glass envelope when current is supplied to the electrical contacts from a power source to which the base is connected. A safety arrangement in the base automatically electrically disconnects the electrical contacts from the power source when the glass envelope is broken, and includes an electrical contact member in the base and a moving/restraining arrangement in the base for moving the electrical contact members out of electrical contact with the power source and the electrical contacts, when the glass envelope is broken. |
| US07832897B2 |
LED unit with interlocking legs
An LED unit includes a plurality of LEDs, each of which includes a base, an LED die mounted on the base, a pair of leads penetrating the base to electrically connect with the LED die, a plurality of legs extending radially from a periphery of the base, a plurality of cutouts defined in the base and an encapsulant enveloping the LED die. The pair of leads of each LED are joined to corresponding leads of adjacent LEDs to realize electrical connections of the LEDs, while the legs of each LED are fitted into corresponding cutouts of the bases of adjacent LEDs to realize mechanical connections of the LEDs. |
| US07832890B2 |
Facial tissue container with integrated night light
A facial tissue container having an internal light source includes a window opening and frame for receiving and retaining the light source, a sealed sanitary barrier or cover over the window opening, and a powered LED unit, including a printed circuit board operably connected to multiple LEDs, a switch mechanism for operating the LEDs, and a power supply, a retaining mechanism for reversibly attaching the powered LEDs to the window frame. The light source also preferably also includes a dimmer switch mechanism for controlling LED brightness, and a switch mechanism for filtering the LEDs to emit colored light, and for changing colors based on predetermined patterns. |
| US07832889B1 |
Recessed light housing with a rotatable aperture
A recessed light assembly having an illumination element and having an enclosure attachable to a support structure of a dwelling has a rotating aperture plate rotatably mounted to a wall of the enclosure. The rotating aperture plate has an illumination aperture disposed over an opening in the wall of the enclosure and the recessed light assembly has adjustable fasteners, accessible from an exterior of the recessed light assembly, which adjustable fasteners selectively permit and prevent rotation of the rotating aperture plate relative to the enclosure allowing a user to adjust the rotational alignment of the illumination aperture relative to the enclosure of an installed light assembly without disengaging an attached assembly from the support structure. The illumination element may be fixed relative to the rotating aperture plate or may be fixed relative to the enclosure. The rotating aperture plate and the enclosure may have rotational alignment reference marks and a rotational alignment indicator which serve to indicate a present rotational alignment of the aperture plate relative to the enclosure. |
| US07832879B2 |
Heat dissipating layers in deformable mirrors
This invention relates to improvements in thermal management in deformable mirrors. In particular, this invention relates to a deformable mirror comprising a heat spreader used to distribute thermal energy evenly across the mirror.Diamond material 104, on account of its extremely high thermal conductivity, is a preferred choice of heat spreader which permits build up of thermal energy in the mirror 100 to be quickly and evenly distributed across the entire mirror surface, increasing the working life of the mirror. |
| US07832876B2 |
Projection display for converting light beams into an optical image
A projection display includes first and second light sources, a reflection/transmission member which partially transmits a first light beam from the first light source and partially reflects a second light beam from the second light source, and a light valve which converts the light beam from the reflection/transmission member into an optical image in accordance with a video signal. The reflection/transmission member has a reflective surface which is one side main surface, a light-shielding surface which is the other side main surface, and a plurality of openings extending through the both main surfaces. The first light beam is transmitted through the openings from the light-shielding surface to the reflective surface, and the second light beam is reflected off the reflective surface in the direction that the first light beam is transmitted. |
| US07832872B2 |
Projector
The invention discloses a projector including a light-source device, a guiding passage, and a fan. The light-source device includes a light-source lamp for emitting light. The guiding passage has an outlet and an inlet. There is a block disposed in the vicinity of the outlet. The outlet of the guiding passage is connected to the light-source device, and the inlet of the guiding passage is connected to the fan. The fan blows an air flow into the guiding passage. When the air flow passes through the block disposed in the vicinity of the outlet, the air flow will be divided into a first air flow and a second air flow. Afterward, the first air flow cools a first portion of the light-source device, and the second air flow cools a second portion of the light-source device. Accordingly, temperature of the light-source lamp can be stably maintained. |
| US07832870B2 |
Projection system using reflected light from a color wheel
According to one embodiment, a projection system includes a color wheel operable to filter light into a passed component and a reflected component. The projection system also includes a digital micromirror device comprising a plurality of micromirrors each operable to receive the passed component and the reflected component. Each micromirror is selectively positionable to direct, at approximately the same time, the passed component and the reflected component to desired locations. The projection system also includes an optical system operable to direct the passed component and the reflected component from the color wheel to the digital micromirror device at approximately the same time. |
| US07832868B2 |
Method and arrangement for determining the position of a tape-like medium
A method and an arrangement for determining the position of a tape-like medium are proposed. The method provides for counting pulses which are supplied to the arrangement for determining the position to be counted, blocked or cancelled depending on the respective transport state. To this end, it is established whether the transport direction has been constant for a defined amount of time or over a defined distance. The transport direction determines whether the counter is incremented or decremented. In addition, counting pulses which rapidly follow one another are blocked in order to avoid undesirable double triggering. In order to avoid losing blocked counting pulses in an undesirable manner, the latter are stored and are applied to the counter, or discarded, depending on the transport state before and after blocking. |
| US07832866B2 |
Eye-tracking method and system for implementing the same
An eye-tracking method includes acquiring an image of an eye of a user, identifying a pupil of and a reflected light spot on the eye from the acquired image, determining a distance of the reflected light spot from a reference point on the pupil and an angle of the reflected light spot from an axis passing through the reference point on the pupil, determining a gazing point based on the distance and the angle and a pre-established set of data, and performing an operation associated with the gazing point. A system for implementing the eye-tracking method is also disclosed. |
| US07832860B2 |
Tinted contact lenses having a depth effect
The invention provides tinted contact lenses that enhance or change the color of the lens wearer's iris. The lenses of the invention impart a three-dimensional appearance to the pattern by the use of alternating clear and color layers. |
| US07832858B2 |
Contact lens permitting translation
The present invention describes a contact lens of sufficient vertical length when placed on an eye that the lower portion touches the lower fornix of the eye when the eye rotates on a vertical axis, permitting the eye to translate through different vertical portions of the lens as it moves vertically. |
| US07832857B2 |
Microbial cellulose contact lens
The present invention provides a contact lens from Gluconacetobacter xylinus cellulose material. |
| US07832856B2 |
Coatings and solutions for contact lenses
A contact lens is coated with a first polymer, such as a boronic acid-containing copolymer, having affinity to mucin, and a second polymer. The second polymer improves initial comfort of the contact lens. During wear of the contact lens, the second polymer is removed from the contact lens, by blinking and/or tear fluids, and mucin complexes with the first polymer on the contact lens surface. |
| US07832855B2 |
Temple-bar-less eyeglasses
Temple-bar-less eyeglasses eliminate the temple bars, ear pieces, and hinges of traditional eyeglasses in favor of a flexible tether system attaching to the lenses of the eyeglasses, which sits atop the wearer's ears and connects behind the wearer's head. The temple-bar-less eyeglasses are comfortable, light in weight, resistant to damage and breakage, and customizable as desired by the wearer. |
| US07832851B2 |
Ink jet recorder
A planar metal platen opposes an ink jet recording head for ejecting solvent-based ink and is secured through supporting members formed of polyphenylene sulfide containing glass fibers to a metal frame under a state not touching the frame directly. The platen is fixed with a heater for drying ink on a recording medium on the platen quickly. Each supporting member is secured to the frame by means of a bolt penetrating an elongated hole, and a relative position of the supporting member and the platen supported by the member, and the frame and the ink jet recording head supported by the frame, can be adjusted by shifting the position of the bolt in the elongated hole. Consequently, transmission of heat from the heater to the platen is suppressed and good recording is ensured by suppressing partial temperature difference of the platen. |
| US07832847B2 |
Droplet discharging apparatus and method of manufacturing the droplet discharging apparatus
A droplet discharging apparatus has a pressure chamber communicating with a nozzle, a vibration film forming a part of the pressure chamber, a piezoelectric element for vibrating the vibration film, a projection joined to the piezoelectric element and transmitting vibration of the piezoelectric element to the vibration film, and a flow path communicating with the pressure chamber. The apparatus has first and second members, with the vibration film, the projection, a groove, and a supply hole communicating with the groove being provided at the first member. The nozzle and the pressure chamber are formed in the second member. The first member and the second member are bonded together to form the flow path in the groove and also the pressure chamber in the recess. The groove and the recess partially overlap to form the flow path and the pressure chamber. A method is disclosed for manufacturing the droplet discharging apparatus. |
| US07832846B2 |
Piezoelectric inkjet printhead
A piezoelectric inkjet printhead that includes a flow channel plate; an ink flow channel that is formed in the flow channel plate and includes an ink inlet through which ink enters, a plurality of pressure chambers to which ink to be ejected is filled, a manifold which is a path for supplying ink from the ink inlet to the pressure chambers, a plurality of restrictors that connect the manifold to the pressure chambers, and a plurality of nozzles to eject ink from the pressure chambers to the outside; and a plurality of piezoelectric actuators formed on the flow channel plate to provide a driving power to each of the pressure chambers to eject ink to the outside, wherein the manifold includes a plurality of individual manifolds defined by a plurality of first barrier ribs, which respectively correspond to the pressure chambers. In the process of ejecting ink to the outside, ink that flows back from the pressure chambers towards the individual manifolds through the restrictors does not influence adjacent pressure chambers, thus preventing cross-talk. |
| US07832844B2 |
Printhead having efficient heater elements for small drop ejection
A printhead is provided having a plurality of nozzles and a plurality of heater elements each for heating an ejectable liquid to cause ejection of a drop of the ejectable liquid from a respective one of the nozzles. Each heater element is configured such that drops having drop volumes of less than 2 picoliters are ejected with a temperature rise in the ejectable liquid of less than 40 degrees Celsius above ambient temperature. |
| US07832843B2 |
Liquid jet head
A liquid ejecting head includes plural ejection outlets for ejecting droplets; liquid flow paths in fluid communication with the ejection outlets; and a liquid supply opening for supplying the liquid to the liquid flow paths. The ejection outlets include first and second ejection outlets disposed at least at one side of the liquid supply opening and are staggered. The first ejection outlets are nearer to the liquid supply opening than the second ejection outlets. Each of first recording elements corresponding to the first ejection outlets includes one rectangular heat generating resistor having a long side extending along a direction crossing with an arranging direction of the ejection outlets. Each of second recording elements corresponding to the second ejection outlets comprises plural rectangular heat generating resistors which are adjacent to each other at long sides thereof and are electrically connected in series. |
| US07832842B2 |
Printer controller for supplying data to a printhead module having interleaved shift registers
A printer controller for providing data to a printhead module that includes: at least one row of print nozzles; at least first and second shift registers for shifting in dot data supplied from a data source, wherein each shift register feeds dot data to a group of nozzles, and wherein each of the groups of the nozzles is interleaved with at least one of the other groups of the nozzles. |
| US07832840B2 |
Printed circuit board assembly with modular printed circuit boards
A printed circuit board (PCB) assembly has a number of modular printhead controller printed circuit board (PCB), Electrical connector assemblies operatively connect respective PCBs to each other. Each connector assembly has a connecting member with a series of parallel spaced conducting strips. Each member is shaped and configured for fitment into a cavity defined by the raised and recessed portions of two abutting supports to connect the connecting strips of two PCBs via said conducting strips. Each PCB is mounted to a respective modular support that defines a raised portion and a recessed portion at an end thereof. The PCBs each have electrical connecting strips which overlie the respective recessed portions. |
| US07832839B2 |
Inkjet print cartridge
A method of making an inkjet print cartridge comprises forming a cartridge body (30) and applying directly to the surface of the body first and second sets of electrical terminals (40a, 42a) selectively connected by conductive tracks (44). A printhead (68) is mounted to the body (30) in electrical connection with the first set of terminals (40a). The second set of terminals (42a) is adapted for electrical connection to printer circuitry. The electrical terminals and conductive tracks may be located in corresponding recesses in the cartridge body, being deposited therein by squeegee or inkjet printing. |
| US07832836B2 |
Ink jet printing apparatus and ink jet printing method
In an ink jet printing apparatus using many types of inks to execute bidirectional printing, when symmetrically arranged ejection opening rows for a cyan, magenta, and yellow inks are used in the print head, one-pass bidirectional printing is executed. On the other hand, if ejection opening rows for a black ink are used in addition to the above ejection opening rows, multi-pass printing is executed so that there are a number of dots formed with one application order for the black and other color inks and the same number of dots formed with another application order for the black and other color inks. This reduces the non-uniformity of the colors attributed to the difference in application order. |
| US07832832B2 |
Liquid injection apparatus
An inkjet recording device includes a recording head and a cap placed in tight contact with a nozzle forming surface for defining a sealed space. A head moving mechanism moves the recording head along a direction in which the nozzle forming surface is extended, toward or separately from a contact position at which the cap is placed in tight contact with the recording head. A cap moving mechanism moves the cap toward or separately from the contact position at which the cap is placed in tight contact with the nozzle forming surface. A cap holding mechanism including a slider holds the cap such that the cap is allowed to slide along a moving direction of the recording head and positions the cap at the contact position. |
| US07832830B2 |
Inkjet recording device
An inkjet recording device one aspect of the invention comprises: a plurality of inkjet heads each having an ink ejection surface; a frame that has a plurality of holes formed therein and supports the plurality of inkjet heads such that the plurality of ink ejection surfaces are respectively exposed from the plurality of holes; a cap comprising a projection formed thereon to define a plurality of recessed portions; and a cap moving mechanism configured to move at least one of the cap and the frame to selectively position the projection at a first position and a second position. The projection at the first position abuts on the frame such that the plurality of ink ejection surfaces are respectively surrounded by the plurality of recessed portions. The projection at the second position is spaced from the frame. |
| US07832825B2 |
Nozzle error correction method and image-forming apparatus using the same
The nozzle error correction method is provided for adjusting information of an output image to correct an error nozzle. A position of an error nozzle firing an ink amount different from a reference value is detected from a plurality of nozzles. A determination is made from an input image as to whether a current pixel for output is an error pixel of the detected error nozzle. A channel value of the error nozzle is set to a certain value if the current pixel is the error pixel. However, if the current pixel is not the error pixel, a determination is made as to whether an error pixel exists in a certain area around the current pixel. A value of the current pixel is then adjusted based on error information. Image-processing is performed in order for the current pixel to be outputted, if the error pixel exists in the certain area. Accordingly, degradation of a print speed and a shortened life span of the head are prevented. |
| US07832823B2 |
Image forming apparatus and control method thereof
An image forming apparatus, includes an image forming unit, a driver having a driving unit as a driving source of the image forming unit, a detector which detects driving information of the driving unit, and a controller which controls the driver to operate with a delay time corresponding to a difference between the detected driving information and a reference value. |
| US07832813B2 |
Parking brake module for a pressure medium-operated brake system
A parking brake module for a pressure medium-operated brake system of a vehicle having a parking brake function enabled by at least one spring brake cylinder includes a first valve device that increases the amount of pressure medium and has an inlet that can be connected to a pressure medium reservoir, an outlet that can be connected to at least one spring-loaded part of a spring brake cylinder, and a control input connected to a control line. A second valve device encompasses at least one first connection used as a trailer control valve connection and can be connected to a trailer control valve to control a trailer brake. To provide a valve concept for different vehicle configurations, particularly including an anti jackknifing function, pressure prevailing at the first connection can be adjusted regardless of pressure prevailing in the pressure medium reservoir and at the outlet of the first valve device. |
| US07832810B2 |
Stuffing machine for brooms or brushes
A bristle magazine for a broom or brush stuffing machine includes a receiving space for a multitude of bristles, a bending edge and a bracket opposite the bending edge for maintaining the bristles in a curved condition. |
| US07832808B2 |
Tool holder sleeve
In one aspect of the present invention, a degradation assembly has a holder fitted within a block attached to a driving mechanism. The holder has a longitudinal central bore with an opening at an end opposite the driving mechanism. A high impact resistant tool has a carbide bolster axially intermediate a steel shank and an impact tip, the steel shank having a first end and a second end. A sleeve being radially intermediate the bore of the holder and the steel shank. |
| US07832804B2 |
Lounge chair with adjustable arm rests
According to some embodiments of the invention, the convenience of lounge, pool, and patio furniture is increased by providing adjustable armrests that do not require cumbersome adjustments in order to reposition the armrest. According to some embodiments of the invention, an additional pair of armrests may be attached to existing conventional chair designs that have only one pair of armrests in order to increase the utility of the chair, which may be especially useful for lounge chairs, patio furniture, chaise lounges, and the like. According to other embodiments of the invention a lounge chair includes armrests that rotate toward and away from a person sitting in the chair, armrests that remain horizontal as the chair is repositioned, and platforms to support the arms of a person lying in the chair. |
| US07832799B2 |
Locking support assembly for casino chair
A locking support assembly for a casino chair uses a support plate with a chair mount having a fixed pin protruding upwards from the support plate opposite to the mount. The pin may serve as a sole or primary guide member in the support plate to guide the support plate into horizontal alignment with a latch mounted inside a beam. The beam holds the support plate in close but unlocked engagement by a lower groove, to resist loads imposed by an attached chair. A releasable latch inside the beam receives the pin to provide locked engagement between the support plate and the beam. The beam may be fastened to a vertical surface of a gaming machine or other object. The support plate and attached chair can be released from the beam by inserting a tool through a keyhole in the beam to release the latch, while pulling the support plate outwards. |
| US07832798B2 |
Valve layer for a seat
In one aspect, the present invention provides a ventilated seat with a valve sheet having one or more valve assemblies. The valve sheet maybe on a frame of the seat. The valve assemblies open in response to a force such as a force applied by an individual occupying the seat. In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of thermally regulating a seat by occupying a seat with a valve sheet. By occupying the seat one or more valves assemblies open air moving though the open valve assemblies thermally regulates the seat. |
| US07832797B2 |
Foldable furniture
A foldable chair that is convertible to either a seat or a table that includes a laterally extending wedge shaped frame, a backrest, a leg, and a seat. The chair includes two chambers for respectively receiving the backrest and the leg. The backrest and the leg are pivotally connected to the seat. The chair includes a locking structure for securing the backrest and leg in either of a retracted or extended state. In the retracted state, the backrest and leg are flush with the frame. |
| US07832796B2 |
Three-piece roof assembly for race cars
A three-piece roof assembly is provided for racing cars in which the two side members are fixedly supported on the frame of the vehicle and the center member is positionable at a selectable canted angle relative to the side members. The center member is formed with laterally extended flanges that overlap the side members to maintain structural integrity between the center member and the respective side members. The canting of the center member creates a gap that varies in width from front to rear. The process for canting a race car roof is significantly simplified and involves fixing the side members to the frame of the vehicle, then positioning the center member at the desired angular orientation, and fixing the center member relative to the side members. The variable width gap between the center member and the side members can be filled with weld material and painted. |
| US07832795B2 |
Vehicle front structure
A front side member has: a front frame portion disposed such that a longitudinal direction of the front frame portion runs along a vehicle longitudinal direction; a rear frame portion which is offset toward a vehicle bottom side with respect to the front frame portion at a vehicle rear side of the front frame portion, and which is disposed such that a longitudinal direction of the rear frame portion runs along the vehicle longitudinal direction; and a connecting frame portion connecting a rear end of the front frame portion and a front end of the rear frame portion. A concave portion is formed at a vehicle top-bottom direction intermediate portion of the connecting frame portion. A dash cross member, which is disposed such that a longitudinal direction of the dash cross member runs along a vehicle transverse direction, is provided within the concave portion. |
| US07832793B2 |
Pedestrian guard for a motor vehicle
A pedestrian guard for a motor vehicle is designed to protect persons in the event of a collision with the motor vehicle. At least one profile section (2) with a honeycomb cross section is arranged between the component of the motor vehicle against which a person impacts in the event of collision with the motor vehicle, in particular, between the fender (1) and the component of the motor vehicle (5) to which the impacted component is connected. The profile section is produced of an aluminum material that is in a soft annealed state. |
| US07832787B2 |
Convertible
A convertible has a top which can be opened and can be put away and which has a rear window frame and, when the top is closed, at least one surface bow situated in front of said rear window frame in the direction of travel. A coupling linkage for carrying out a relative movement of the surface bow with respect to the rear window frame is arranged between the rear window frame and the surface bow. It is essential for the invention that at least two surface bows which are situated in front of the rear window frame in the direction of travel are provided, which surface bows, when the top is closed, form a continuous roof contour together with the rear window frame. Furthermore, the coupling linkage is designed in such a manner that, at the beginning of the opening of the top, the second surface bow can be moved downward relative to the adjacent first surface bow and relative to the rear window frame out of the roof contour. |
| US07832786B2 |
Apparatus for reducing noise in a soft top vehicle
An apparatus and method for reducing noise in a vehicle having a soft top roof. The apparatus includes a main extension bar having a first end and an opposing second end. A first coupling mechanism is affixed to the first end and a second coupling mechanism is affixed to the second end. The first and second coupling mechanisms are attached to roll bars located on a top portion of the vehicle. With the apparatus in place upon the roll bars, the main extension bar exerts upward force against the soft top roof of the vehicle, thereby reducing movement of the soft top roof and noise within the interior of the vehicle. |
| US07832785B2 |
Vehicle with integrated sliding roof module
The invention concerns a vehicle comprising a body roof having an opening capable of being closed and a folding top consisting of several rigid parts (3), (4), (5) and a modular roof assembly (1) mounted directly in one single piece on the vehicle structure, said assembly comprising the folding top, with its mobile parts (3), (4), (5), a frame (10) supporting the folding top, adapted to be positioned opposite marking elements (75) of the vehicle structure and connected thereto, the parts of the roof being mobile between an extended position, resulting from a forward displacement, and a folded position wherein said parts are substantially vertically retracted behind the seats (7), side by side, a mechanism (40, 50) for displacing the roof parts, borne by the support frame, being also provided, after the modular roof assembly has been positioned inside the vehicle, for displacing said roof parts relative to the roof opening between their extended and retracted positions. |
| US07832784B2 |
Motor vehicle provided with a folding top
A motor vehicle provided with a folding top, which is supported by a frame of the motor vehicle and can be set in an open position or in a closed position. The folding top has an element of covering, which is substantially horizontal in the closed position and is hinged at the rear to the frame of the motor vehicle so that it can rotate about a first horizontal axis between the open position and the closed position. The element of covering is made up of two half-elements, which are connected together in such a way that one half-element of front covering is folded on a half-element of rear covering when the folding top passes from the closed position to the open position. |
| US07832783B1 |
Motorcycle secondary windshield mount system
A secondary windshield has upper and lower surfaces, a top, a bottom and opposite sides. Each pair of two pair of brackets has a bottom and a top bracket. Each bottom bracket has upper and lower slots alignable with a plane of a primary windshield. Each top bracket has a first section positioned in contact with the secondary windshield and a second section transverse to the first section. Each pair of brackets has upper and lower legs. Each upper leg has a lower end slidable and pivotable within the upper slot and an upper end pivotable in the second section adjacent the top of the secondary windshield. Each lower leg has a lower end slidable and pivotable within the lower slot. Each lower leg has an upper end pivotable in the second section adjacent the bottom of the secondary windshield. |
| US07832781B2 |
Map pocket close-out as integrated pelvic bolster for vehicle door
An integrated combined extended map pocket close-out and pelvic bolster component for attachment to a door trim substrate used in a vehicle door is disclosed. The component comprises a map pocket close-out portion, a pelvic bolster portion, and a bridge connecting the map pocket close-out portion and the pelvic bolster portion. The pelvic bolster portion is substantially hollow and preferably defines a box. The component includes a plurality of walls and the thickness of some of the walls is greater than the thickness of other walls. One or more of the walls may be angled. The map pocket close-out portion has a depth and the pelvic bolster portion has a depth. The depth of the map pocket close-out portion is greater than the depth of the pelvic bolster portion. The one-piece component is a molded component formed from a polymerized material. |
| US07832778B2 |
Delayed egress exit device
A touch bar (24) exit device (20) comprises a retractor element (50) disposed in the housing (22) for substantially restilinear movement. The retractor element (50) connects the touch bar (24) and the latch bolt (82) such that the retractor element (50) and the latch bolt (82) are moved toward the retracted position in response to movement of the touch bar (24). An electrically energizable locking mechanism (104) in the exit device (20) includes a reciprocating plunger (106) moving transverse to the retractor element (50). When energized, the locking mechanism (104) is operative to move the plunger (106) to the projected locking position to prevent retraction of the latch bolt. A time delay circuit is connected to the locking mechanism (104). A switch (120) actuated in response to movement of the touch bar (24) is connected to the time delay circuit for starting a predetermined time interval for temporarily delaying deenergization of the locking mechanism (104). When the time delay circuit interrupts power to the locking mechanism (104), the plunger (106) moves allowing the latch bolt (82) to move to the retracted position. |
| US07832771B2 |
Method for the production of a book-type security document and a book-type security document
The invention relates to a method for the production of a security document in addition to a security document comprising at least one security cambric (15) and at least one transponder unit (21) which is fully encompassed by laminated layers (22,23) forming a laminated layer sheath. |
| US07832769B2 |
Guide for seatbelt webbing
A one-piece stamped metal guide (128) for seatbelt webbing (112) in a vehicle (108) includes a mounting portion (242) for mounting the guide in the vehicle. The mounting portion (242) defines a mounting plane (352). A guiding portion (244) includes a guiding surface (256) having at least one guide element (258) stamped in the metal forming the guiding portion. A portion of the guiding surface (256) including the at least one guide element (258) is positioned outside the mounting plane (352). Laterally spaced side portions (246) connect the guiding portion (244) with the mounting portion (242). The mounting portion (242), guiding portion (244), and side portions (246) define a webbing slot (248) for receiving the seatbelt webbing (112) for sliding movement over the guiding surface (256). |
| US07832764B2 |
Knee protector structure for vehicle
The present invention relates to a knee protector structure for a vehicle. The present invention intends to make it possible to positively prevent an upper absorption bracket from being deformed with a tensile force exerted through a connecting bracket when a lower absorption bracket is deformed with knee input energy of a small-statured vehicle occupant. The knee protector structure for a vehicle according to the present invention comprises a lower absorption bracket 13 able to absorb knee input energy of a small-statured vehicle occupant, an upper absorption bracket 14 able to absorb knee input energy of a vehicle occupant of an average constitution, a connecting bracket 21 for connection between input-side end portions 18 and 20 of the lower absorption bracket 13 and the upper absorption bracket 14, and tensile force absorbing means 35 disposed near the input-side end portion 20 of the upper absorption bracket 14 and able to absorb a tensile force 34 exerted from the connecting bracket 21. |
| US07832763B2 |
Releasable tether retention system
A releasable tether retention system is provided. The system includes a housing, a cutting member slidably coupled to the housing, and a tether holder secured to the tether for attaching a tether to the housing. At least a first portion of the tether holder is coupled to the housing along a path of sliding motion of the cutting member so as to enable the cutting member to at least partially sever the tether holder during sliding motion of the cutting member. A vehicle occupant protection system and an airbag module including the releasable tether retention system are also disclosed. |
| US07832759B2 |
Side airbag module for a motor vehicle
A side impact airbag module for a motor vehicle having an airbag. The airbag is inflatable by a gas generator and unfolds in a flat fashion. The gas generator is connected with the airbag by a feed tube. The airbag module is designed for installation in a door of the motor vehicle. The side airbag module includes a feed tube that has two gas outlet openings or gas outlet areas spaced at a distance from one another, and situated in the area of where the end airbag chambers are formed. The end airbag chambers have filling openings that are situated immediately above the gas outlet openings of the feed tube. The airbag has one or more middle chambers connected for gas flow between the end chambers. |
| US07832757B2 |
Folding stroller with decorative skirt
A folding stroller having a structural frame formed of a plurality of rigid support members. The stroller is provided with a skirt formed of a flexible material. The skirt can be disposed around at least a portion of an outer perimeter of the stroller to create a visual impression of something other than an ordinary stroller. For example, the skirt can create a visual impression of a vehicle such as an automobile, truck, airplane, spacecraft, an animal or a character. The skirt can be formed of fabric, plastic sheeting or film, or a mesh. A suspension frame is provided for suspending the skirt along a least a portion of an upper edge thereof. The suspension frame can at least partially define a profile of the vehicle, animal or character. The suspension frame folds with the structural frame of the stroller for ease of storage. |
| US07832755B2 |
Modular chassis for stroller
A modular chassis of a stroller system includes a body, a front wheel mount on the body, a rear wheel mount on the body, and at least one stroller frame mount on the body. The stroller frame mount is configured to couple releasably and interchangeably a first stroller frame configuration and a second stroller frame configuration different from the first stroller frame configuration to the body. |
| US07832753B2 |
Gear shift bar at a wheel for a vehicle
A gear shift pertaining to a hub of a wheel with a quick lock. The hub has a gear which is supported round a shaft with an outer end and an inner end. The inner end of the shaft is suspended via a suspension device on a vehicle. The quick lock includes a rod which runs in a cylindrical hole which is concentric within and with the shaft and a catch which locks the wheel with the shaft to the suspension device. The gear shift includes the shaft, the rod and a control, all so adapted that the rod has a neutral position relative to the shaft and wherein a movement, relative to the shaft, of the rod from the neutral position in a direction from the outer end of the shaft towards the inner end of the shaft disengages the catch so that the wheel together with the shaft can be locked to and released from the suspension device. The rod is further provided with a gear selector contact configured to contact a gear selector in the gear, and, by a movement, relative to the shaft, of the rod in an axial direction from the neutral position in a direction from the inner end of the shaft to the outer end of the shaft, acts via the gear selector contact to cause the gear selector in the gear to change gear position so that the gear ratio of the wheel relative to a drive device for the wheel is changed. |
| US07832752B2 |
Front end lateral suspension
A suspension assembly for a front end of a vehicle to provide lateral flex for absorption of lateral forces. The suspension assembly comprises a steering shaft including two ends: an end coupled to an upper triple clamp and another end coupled to a lower triple clamp. A spring unit couples one of the two ends of the steering shaft to the associated triple clamp and absorbs forces that are transferred from a road surface up through a front wheel and the pair of forks retained by the upper and lower triple clamps. A pivot mechanism couples the other triple clamp to the other one of the two ends of the steering shaft and creates a pivoting axis. The suspension assembly permits the front end to pivot about the pivoting axis and causes the spring unit to flex laterally in response to bumps in the road surface. |
| US07832750B2 |
Arm for a motor-vehicle independent suspension and motor-vehicle independent suspension comprising the same
The arm (12) comprises a pair of transverse rods (16, 18) articulated at their outer ends (24, 28) to the wheel-carrier of a vehicle wheel and at their inner ends (26, 30) to the vehicle body, and at least one pair of connecting elements (20, 22) which connect the rods (16, 18) to one another and are preferably formed as blade-like or plate-like elements, in such a manner that their bending stiffness in a plane is higher than their bending stiffness in a direction perpendicular to that plane. The arm (12) is capable of controlling two translational degrees of freedom (DOFx, DOFy) along the axes of the rods (16, 18) and, by virtue of the geometry and torsional stiffness of the rods (16, 18), as well as of the geometry and bending stiffness of the connecting elements (20, 22) in their plane, a first rotational degree of freedom (DOFθy) about a first, mainly transverse and horizontal axis (ESAy). According to the invention, the rods (16, 18) converge, preferably towards the outside of the vehicle, in such a manner that the arm has an elastic centre (EC) located outside its physical envelope and is thus capable of controlling, by virtue of the geometry and bending stiffness of the rods (16, 18), as well as of the geometry and bending stiffness of the connecting elements (20, 22) in the direction perpendicular to their plane, a second rotational degree of freedom (DOFθz) about a second, mainly vertical axis (ESAz). |
| US07832747B2 |
Car body for a motor vehicle
A pressure chamber of a gas spring damping unit is arranged within the cross section of a longitudinal beam in a motor vehicle body. For this purpose, a tubular connecting piece that is closed by a cover is welded into the longitudinal beam. A piston of the gas spring damping unit is arranged in longitudinally displaceable manner in the connecting piece. The space occupied by the gas spring damping unit is thereby kept particularly small. |
| US07832745B2 |
Single caster wheel assembly for trailer towable at high speeds
A trailer wheel assembly for mounting on the rear of a trailer has a structure that reduces or prevents oscillations about a vertical axis arising during high speed towing. The structure includes dual wheels mounted on an axle, a resilient support, and a suspension arm extending rearwardly and downwardly from the resilient support to the axle for the wheels. |
| US07832739B2 |
Apparatus and method for coupling a disconnectable stabilizer bar
A vehicle stabilizer bar assembly having a pair of stabilizer bar members that are selectively uncoupled via a clutch. The clutch includes a moving element that can be selectively moved via an actuator to effect the uncoupling of the stabilizer bar members. The actuator is configured to apply a force to the moving element concentrically about the axis along which the moving element translates. The clutch is configured to transmit torque from one of the stabilizer bar members to the other stabilizer bar member concentrically about the axis. A method for operating a vehicle stabilizer bar assembly is also provided. |
| US07832737B2 |
Multi-layer seal for electrochemical devices
Multi-layer seals are provided that find advantageous use for reducing leakage of gases between adjacent components of electrochemical devices. Multi-layer seals of the invention include a gasket body defining first and second opposing surfaces and a compliant interlayer positioned adjacent each of the first and second surfaces. Also provided are methods for making and using the multi-layer seals, and electrochemical devices including said seals. |
| US07832736B2 |
Gasket
A gasket commonly used for a plural kinds of objective members to be sealed, the objective members having the same outer shapes and differently figured plural bores to be sealed. The gasket comprises a metal base plate, a compound layer made of a synthetic resin or of a rubber material mixed with a fiber material, the compound layer being integrally laminated on at least one surface of the metal base plate, a plurality of openings commonly used for the differently figured bores, a plurality of bead structures of a chevron-type full-bead commonly used for the differently figured bores, the plurality of bead structures being provided around each of the opening, and a recessed groove portion formed along and opposite side to the bead structure, the recessed groove portion being formed with an auxiliary sealing portion at a crossing part or at a matching part of the recessed groove portion, into which a sealing material made of a rubber material or of a synthetic resin is to be filled, for commonly use of the gasket. |
| US07832733B2 |
Shooting skill amusement device
A basketball amusement device comprises a backboard, a basket, and a self-propelled carriage. The backboard has a surface and the basket is attached to the surface of the backboard. The basket is adapted to receive a tossed ball. A support connects the backboard to the carriage. The self-propelled carriage includes a drive mechanism configured to move the carriage and backboard. The amusement device moves a predetermined distance across an associated support surface in response to the ball being received in the basket. |
| US07832731B2 |
Three-card game without poker ranking
A method of playing a wagering game has at least one player placing an Ante wager to compete against a dealer in a playing card game; the at least one player receiving a player initial hand of multiple playing cards of number n and evaluating the playing cards according to rules comprising: a) the player having the option of retaining all cards in the player initial hand or replacing one or more cards in the player initial hand if at least one card in the player initial hand equals or exceeds the minimum value to form a player resulting hand; b) the dealer receiving a dealer initial hand having more than n cards, the dealer optionally replacing one or more cards in the dealer initial hand; and c) the dealer comparing a single highest value card in the resulting dealer hand with a single highest value card in the player resulting hand as an at least initial step in determining a win loss event for the Ante wager. The dealer receives a dealer initial hand having more than n cards, the dealer replacing one or more cards in the dealer initial hand if at least one card in the dealer initial hand equals or exceeds the minimum value to form a dealer resulting hand; and the dealer comparing a single highest value card in the resulting dealer hand with a single highest value card in the player resulting hand as an at least initial step in determining a win loss event for the Ante wager. |
| US07832728B2 |
Dice game apparatus
A game of defending statements with persuasive arguments consisting of a tossing bag, a “frequency” block, two equivalent “equation” blocks; three “verb” blocks and ten “noun” blocks, a number of which are shook inside the bag, then tossed onto a table top by a so-called author who then must form and then refine a statement from the words and symbols on the face up topsides of the tossed blocks, then contrive an argument based upon the statement meant to result in the articulation of a discernible concept, challengeable however by non-author players of the game; then requiring a defense of such an argument, resulting in an awarding of playing points or not depending upon the assessment by a majority of such non-author players as to the merits of such an argument or defense whereupon one; once an author-player; then becomes a challenger-player as another player, formerly a challenger then becomes an author. |
| US07832726B2 |
Sheet-convey device and image reading device
A sheet-convey device, includes a holder, a convey member, and a recognizer. On the holder, a first sheet having a first width and a second sheet having a second width larger than the first width are placeable. The convey member conveys a sheet placed on the holder in a predetermined direction. The recognizer recognizes a width of the sheet and includes first and second sensors for sensing whether a part of the sheet is present at respective first and second positions of the holder. The first position is located inside of the first width in the widthwise direction with the first sheet placed on the holder, while the second position is located outside of the first width and inside of the second width with the second sheet placed on the holder. The second position is located upstream of the first position in the predetermined direction. |
| US07832725B2 |
Paper sheet stacking apparatus and paper sheet post processing apparatus
There is described a paper sheet post processing apparatus that includes a paper sheet stacking apparatus in which the paper sheet stacking operation can be smoothly and stably conducted during a high-speed post processing of paper sheets. The paper sheet stacking apparatus includes: a paper sheet stacking tray that is inclined with respect to a horizontal line; an ejecting member to press-push a lower end portion of the paper sheets stacked on the paper sheet stacking tray, so as to eject the paper sheets outside the paper sheet stacking apparatus; and a protrusion member to push up substantially a center portion of the paper sheets stacked on the paper sheet stacking tray. The protrusion member is formed as a separate member being independent of the ejecting member. Further, the height of the protrusion member is lower than that of the ejecting member. |
| US07832723B2 |
Sheet feeding apparatus having a separating member and speed detecting unit
There is provided a sheet feeding apparatus including a first feeding member that feeds at least one of the sheets from a discharge tray; a second feeding member that feeds the sheet fed by the first feeding member; a separating member, wherein a nip portion is formed between the separating member and the second feeding member, and when two sheets are entered the nip portion, the separating member separates one of the entered sheets from the other; an adjusting unit that changes a force of the separating member; a detecting unit that detects at least one of a distance by which the other of the entered sheets is transported beyond the nip portion and an advancing speed of the other of the entered sheets at the nip portion; and a controller that controls the adjusting unit based on a detection value of the detecting unit. |
| US07832712B1 |
Cable puller for lifting wire rope and electric cords and associated method
A pulley suspension assembly for assisting a user to vertically transport a cable to an elevated location may include a base member adapted to be positioned at the elevated location. A plurality of prongs may be statically coupled the base, extended upwardly therefrom, and seated adjacent to a rear edge thereof. A rectilinear guide rail may be statically mated to the prongs and spanned therebetween. Additionally, a plurality of stabilizing brackets may be statically affixed to the top surface and front of the base member. Further, a rectilinear shaft may be connected to the brackets and spanned therebetween. A plurality of pulleys may be journaled about the rectilinear shaft and rotatable thereabout. Such pulleys may be uniformly juxtaposed side-by-side and freely reciprocated along the shaft while rotating about the fulcrum axis. Anchor cables may be included and engaged with the prongs and an existing support surface at the elevated location. |
| US07832709B2 |
Wire pulling apparatus
A frame is pivotally connected to a chassis at a location near a first end of the frame. A jack is disposed between the chassis and the frame to enable pivoting movement of the frame relative to the chassis. A pulley is connected to the frame at a location near a second end of the frame that is opposite the first end of the frame. A winch is disposed on the frame to enable pulling of wire over the pulley. A control device enables control of the jack so as to enable positioning of the pulley that is connected to the frame. |
| US07832707B2 |
Normally open electromagnetic valve
A normally open electromagnetic valve includes a fixed core, a movable core, a coil, a valve body, a valve seat member, a return spring, a raised portion formed at one of the fixed and movable core so as to project towards the other core and a recessed portion formed at the other core so as to face the raised portion. A relationship between the raised and recessed portions is set such that while a distance therebetween is within a predetermined range, an attraction force acting between the fixed core and the movable core by virtue of an excitation force of the coil decreases as the raised portion approaches or moves into the recessed portion, and when the valve body and the valve seat surface are brought into abutment with each other by exiting the coil, the distance between the raised portion and the recessed portion stays within the predetermined range. |
| US07832705B2 |
Grade bracket for use in concrete form system
A grade bracket for use with concrete form systems is disclosed. In one embodiment, the grade bracket forms part of a concrete form system that includes a plurality of form components, including straight forms, curved radius forms, and skin panels for interconnecting form components. The form components are assembled atop a ground surface and are configured to define a volume for containing poured concrete. Grade brackets for supporting the form components at a desired grade above the ground are used. Each grade bracket includes a body, a form support member, and a grade knob. The form support member attaches to the body and includes a bracket portion that supports the form component. The grade knob includes an eye-bolt. A stake secured in the ground is selectively engaged by the eye-bolt of the grade knob such that the grade bracket is maintained at a desired position on the stake. |
| US07832704B1 |
Concrete form apparatus adapted to be positioned between a concrete board and a base board in a foundation
A concrete form apparatus adapted to brace a concrete board and a base board in a foundation. The concrete form apparatus includes a plurality of leg members, a linking member and a concrete board support. At least one of the leg members is adapted to be positioned against the base board, while at least one of the leg members is adapted to be positioned against the concrete board. The concrete board support is attached to a top portion of one of the leg members and is adapted to secure the concrete board parallel to the base board. The concrete form apparatus may also include a removal mechanism to aid in the removal of the device, and it may also include at aperture through which a fastening device may be directed to secure the device to the base board. The present invention is modular and reusable. |
| US07832703B2 |
Apparatus and method for protecting lined concrete pipe during the manufacturing process
At the filling station of a dry cast pipe making machine for making pipe lined with a plastic liner, the liner is first placed over the core and then a plurality of spaced-apart, removable L-shaped plates are secured around the top edge of the core. One leg of each plate extends inside the core with the other leg extending downwardly over the top edge of the liner. The plates are removably held in place on the core by the use of a clamping device, such as a vise-grip, for example. Once the form is filled with concrete and ready for the pressure heading step, the downwardly extending legs of the plates serve as ‘shoehorns’ to guide the pressure header over the top of the liner and prevent damage to it. In addition, the plates will assist in centering the core within the jacket. |
| US07832697B2 |
Wall mounted appliance holder
A wall mounted holder for an appliance is disclosed. The holder is capable of supporting a variety of conventional hair dryers and permitting the flow of air to be directed in any desired direction while leaving the user's hands free for other purposes. |
| US07832696B2 |
Camera mounting systems
Embodiments of camera mounting systems are disclosed. Certain embodiments include a ball swivel mechanism that joins a camera mounting plate to a bracket arm. In some embodiments, the bracket arm is joined to a grip plate that can be secured to an object such as a tree. In other embodiments, the bracket arm is joined to a monopod that can be secured to the ground. Some embodiments of camera mounting plates are configured to secure multiple types of game-security cameras. |
| US07832690B1 |
Telescoping wing locking system
Disclosed is a telescoping wing locking system for use in aircraft having wings that collapse and expand in a telescoping fashion, such as aircraft designed for use on roadways. Companion wing segments are locked in place when gas is supplied to inflate a bladder located between overlapping sections of the wing segments. Wing segments are unlocked when gas is removed from the bladder so that it deflates and allows the wing segments to be moved relative to each other. The wing segments may be locked in any position relative to each other in which a section of one segment overlaps a section of the neighboring segment with the bladder between. |
| US07832688B2 |
Optimized land mobile satellite configuration and steering
A spacecraft may include a receive antenna, a transmit antenna having an antenna attitude adjuster, and a spacecraft attitude adjustor. The spacecraft may have a nominal orientation in which a yaw axis of the spacecraft, a roll axis of the spacecraft, and the radiator panels are substantially parallel to Earth's equatorial plane, in which the pitch axis of the spacecraft is substantially parallel to Earth's polar axis, in which the Nadir vector is in a yaw-pitch plane of the spacecraft, and in which the transmit antenna and receive antenna are oriented at angle φnom. The antenna attitude adjustor and the spacecraft attitude adjustor may correct an attitude of the transmit antenna to maintain a desired degree of the receive antenna and the transmit antenna steered toward a coverage region on Earth's surface. |
| US07832685B2 |
Stowage bin with shear fittings
An aircraft stowage bin assembly includes shear fittings configured to route a content load from the bucket of the bin assembly to the airframe in the event of a forward load condition, such as a crash or severe turbulence. When the forward inertial load factor on the stowage bin is greater than about 1 g, the shear fittings create an efficient load path from the bucket to the airframe which bypasses the large metallic or composite endframes required by the designs of many conventional overhead stowage bins. As a result, significant reductions in overall bulk and weight, as well as lower manufacturing costs, can be realized. |
| US07832681B2 |
Dispenser for coiled materials
The dispenser for coiled materials (10, 10a) allows the installation of a coil of material (C) without unrolling the material and then rewinding it onto the dispenser A rotationally stationary base (12) has a rotating reel mounted on the base. The reel has a permanently installed flange and a removable flange (26) secured to the assembly by an axle. The removable flange (26) includes a spring to hold the removable flange securely against the coil of material (C) between the flanges (22, 26), thereby precluding significant looseness or play of a partially depleted coil. The assembly is preferably sufficiently narrow axially to permit passage between conventionally spaced sixteen-inch ′ on-center wall studs. The removable flange (26) may be removed, along with any centering guides, and a larger spool of material placed upon the permanent flange. A roll-around caddy may be used for dispensing larger and heavier coiled material. |
| US07832678B2 |
Dispenser for rolls
A dispenser for rolls of web-shaped material, includes a housing having at its bottom part an outlet opening for the web-shaped material and a space for at least two rolls arranged substantially horizontally. A first part of the space is located adjacent the outlet opening and is intended for a first roll in a dispensing position and a second part of the space includes a locking element intended to keep the second roll in standby position. The first part is provided with holding elements for keeping the first roll in use position, the holding elements are spring-loaded and cooperate with the locking elements such that when a roll is located in the first space the locking element prevent the standby roll from falling down, but when the first roll is released from the first space the locking element release and permits the standby roll to occupy the dispensing position. |
| US07832673B2 |
Fly reel
This invention relates to a fly reel, of which the drag system installed in the frame thereof comprises: a drag knob that is connected rotational to one side of periphery of the center shaft that is connected fixed to hub of frame; a drag disk that is spaced-apart from said drag knob and gets inserted rotational to periphery of said center shaft; a braking means for restraining said drag disk from rotating on said center shaft in accordance with transferred amount of said drag knob moved to axial direction of said center shaft; a drag disk bush that is inserted at said drag disk for being rotated together with said drag disk as said drag disk rotates, the drag disk bush having said center shaft inserted therein; a oneway bearing that is inserted at periphery of said drag disk bush, for permitting one directional rotation but for restraining the other directional rotation; and a drag cover that is inserted rotational at periphery of said center shaft so as to be rotated by regulated rotation of said spool, for enabling said oneway bearing to rotate together as said spool rotates, thereby overall configuration can be made efficient and simple; and set direction of oneway bearing can be converted easily if necessary. |
| US07832672B1 |
Bait casting reel
A fishing reel is provided having a pair of opposed sidewalls with a spool holding fishing line rotatably supported between the sidewalls. The spool is freely rotatable in a first direction to release fishing line from the bottom portion of the spool, and is mechanically rotatable in a second direction opposite to the first direction to retrieve the fishing line and to wind the line back onto the spool. A handle crank is provided for imparting rotation to the spool in the second direction by rotation of the crank in the same, second direction. |
| US07832671B2 |
Press roller annular casing and method for production thereof
An annular casing for the press rollers of roller presses for the pressure comminution of particulate material, the outer surface of which casing always has a high degree of hardness and consequently a high wear-resisting capability, but the radially inner region of which casing has a lower degree of hardness to avoid casing ruptures, it is proposed according to the invention that the material of the casing consists of nodular cast iron with at least the alloying elements Ni and Mo and with a bainitic structure with residual austenite, and in that, to achieve a self-hardening surface, the boundary layer of the annular casing—contains martensite, which is constantly renewed by external pressure loading of the casing surface when the press roller is in operation. |
| US07832669B2 |
Screw adjust cone crusher
A screw adjust cone crusher with a top tramp iron relief system where the bonnet can be vertically adjusted by rotating the threaded bonnet support within the threaded lower section. The tramp iron system is disposed entirely above the bonnet, thereby creating a small footprint screw adjust cone crusher with overhead tramp iron release system. |
| US07832668B2 |
Twin-rotor beating bar crusher
A twin-rotor impact bar crusher is provided for comminuting preferably limestone, marl, clay or similar materials. The impact bar crusher includes two rotors arranged horizontally parallel to one another and impact bars which are rigidly fastened to the circumference of the rotors in a uniformly distributed manner. The impact bars preferably extend over the entire length of the rotors. The two rotors are arranged next to one another at the same height and rotate inwards in opposition to one another. |
| US07832664B2 |
Jet mill
In a vertical loop jet mill, a grinding chamber in the lower part of the loop is trapezoidal in shape with side walls converging toward the outside of the loop. Removable nozzle plates are provided in the lower parts of the side walls of the grinding chamber, and the nozzles are directed so that gas streams from nozzles on one side intersect gas streams from nozzles on the other side. A removable insert, with trapezoidal end panels forms the upper wall of the grinding chamber. |
| US07832661B2 |
Injector seat that includes a coined seal band with radius
A fuel injector apparatus and method is provided for use in a fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine that includes a body, a valve seat, closure member, and an orifice plate. The valve seat comprises the intersection of two angled surfaces with a radius before assembly of the fuel injector. During assembly of the fuel injector, a member presses against the radius edge of the sealing surface of the valve seat to create an oblique third sealing surface or sealing band that is coined into the valve seat. The sealing band provides an improved seal between the valve closure member and the valve seat which operates to prevent leakages of fuel in the fuel injector. |
| US07832654B2 |
Device and methods for dispersing multiphasic materials
A spraying device for multiphase material, comprising: a cylinder, a pair of liquid-conveying pipes, a pair of material-conveying pipes, a nozzle, a pair of switches, at least one pair of storage chambers, a pair of valves, a mixing chamber, and a conveying pump; wherein the conveying pump is connected to the storage chambers via the liquid-conveying pipes, the conveying pump, the switches and the valves control material transmission of the material-conveying pipes, the conveying pump is connected to the mixing chamber via the material-conveying pipes, and the mixing chamber is disposed in front of the nozzle. |
| US07832652B2 |
HVAC controller with side removable battery holder
An HVAC controller includes an HVAC controller housing having an aperture and a removable battery tray disposed within the aperture. The removable battery tray includes a pivot point for rotating the battery tray into and out of the aperture. |
| US07832648B2 |
Semiconductor device and an information management system therefor
Individual two-dimensional barcodes are provided for individual chips arrayed on a wafer, individual lead frames to each of which chips are bonded and individual packaged products constituted of resin sealed semiconductor chips based upon chip ID information, to enable information management to be implemented separately for individual chips, individual frames and individual chip products. Thus, a higher degree of efficiency and a higher degree of accuracy in the information management for semiconductor devices are achieved in all processes of semiconductor production including the individual manufacturing processes, the physical distribution process, the shipping process and the claim handling process. |
| US07832645B2 |
Flash memory card expander
Method and system for expanding the memory capacity of devices that use flash memory cards. In one aspect, a memory card expander assembly includes an adaptor shaped to be connected to a memory card slot of a host device, and a receptacle assembly in communication with the adaptor and operative to be attached to the host device. The receptacle assembly includes an expanded memory card slot operative to connect to a memory card such that the host device can communicate with the connected memory card when the adaptor is connected to the memory card slot. |
| US07832644B2 |
Barcode scanner with linear automatic gain control (AGC), modulation transfer function detector, and selectable noise filter
According to embodiments of the present invention, a barcode scanner platform is provided in which the gain of an analog signal representative of a barcode is controlled using a control loop. In embodiments, an MTF detector generates a value (e.g., DC) representative of a low frequency portion (wide or out of optical focus elements) of the analog signal and a second value (e.g., DC) representative of a high frequency portion (narrow elements or in optical focus elements) of the analog signal. The processor uses the first and the second values and a reference amplitude to determine a gain signal. The processor provides the gain signal to an AGC circuit that provides a linear response to the gain signal using matched JFETs. A noise filter can be enabled or disabled based on the first value, the second value, and/or the barcode scanner platform read rate. |
| US07832642B2 |
Bar-code reading apparatus and computer-readable medium
A bar-code reading apparatus includes a reading section to read a bar-code a plurality of times to obtain multiple pieces of bar-code image data; a storage section to store the pieces of bar-code image data; a detection section to detect a moving state of the reading section in a three-dimensional space during a reading operation of the bar-code; a correction section to correct the pieces of bar-code image data stored in the storage section into pieces of bar-code image data which are obtained if the bar-code is read when the reading section is at a preset reference position with respect to the bar-code, based on the moving state detected by the detection section; a synthesis section to synthesize the pieces of bar-code image data corrected by the correction section to produce synthesized image data; and a decode section to decode the synthesized image data. |
| US07832638B2 |
Inspection data recording apparatus and method
A system (10) and method for recording inspection data for geographically remote equipment assets. A portable inspection data recording device (14) is transported by a mobile inspector to a plurality of locations of equipment (12) to be inspected. The data recording device includes a location detection device (32), and a unique equipment identifier is associated with each remote equipment location, so that travel instructions may be displayed for directing the inspector to the location of selected equipment. Recordation of inspection data for selected equipment is enabled only when the portable inspection data recording device is located proximate the selected equipment. Data recordation may be enabled by displaying an equipment-specific data recordation form on input/output display (40) having selected data field automatically populated in response to the selected unique equipment identifier. |
| US07832637B2 |
Managing retail transactions
An embodiment of the present invention includes a technique for retail transactions. A display unit shows product information on a product. A transaction controller provides the product information. A database stores at least one of the product information and customer information.Another embodiment of the invention includes a technique to interact with a customer in a retail setting. A reader reads product information related to a product. A communication controller transmits the product information to a point-of-sale (POS) terminal.Another embodiment of the invention includes a technique to simplify record tracking of customers. Transaction data in transactions made by a plurality of consumers are recorded. The recorded transaction data is maintained as part of transaction records of the consumers. The transaction records are compiled according to pre-defined criteria. |
| US07832636B2 |
Method and system for authenticating use of item
A method for facilitating the detection of misuse of an identity during an electronic transaction. The invention comprises at least five embodiments. In a first embodiment, the method comprises the step of: receiving a notification to authenticate the use of an identity at a first location, wherein the identity is associated with a first wireless terminal; determining an approximate location of the first wireless terminal based on cached position information, the approximate location of the first wireless terminal being a second location; determining whether the first and second locations match in geographical proximity; and generating an alert if the first and second locations do not match in geographical proximity. In a second embodiment, an approximate location of the first wireless terminal is determined based on cached position information stored on a GPS position database. |
| US07832630B2 |
Method and arrangement in a digital communication system
A method for handling information in an information management system is provided. The system includes a digital pen capable of reading a position code and communicating at least part thereof in a communication network. Each digital pen is associated with a respective pen identifier. The method includes associating an alias with a pen identifier in dependence on an interactive element which is coded by part of the position code printed on a surface. The alias is indicative of a role or behavior of a pen user when the user communicates via a digital pen with the information management system. |
| US07832626B2 |
Anonymous competition entry
A method of enabling anonymous entry to a competition via a printed competition entry form that includes machine-readable coded data, the method including the steps, performed in a computer system, of: receiving interaction data representing interaction of a sensing device with the coded data, the interaction data enabling the competition entry to be electronically captured in the computer system; assigning a competition alias ID to the competition entry; and transmitting the competition entry to a competition administrator with the competition alias ID, thereby enabling the anonymous entry to the competition. |
| US07832625B2 |
Donation receptacle and method
A method of promoting customer donations at a place of business includes providing a donation receptacle including a collection inlet, a proceeds bin, and at least one perforated section. The collection inlet is configured to receive monetary donations. The proceeds bin is configured to store the monetary donations received via the collection inlet. A donation path is at least partially defined between the collection inlet and the proceeds bin such that the monetary donations received via the collection inlet move along the donation path to the proceeds bin. The at least one perforated section is positioned along the donation path and is configured to separate the monetary donations from undesired refuse also received via the collection inlet. The donation receptacle is assembled to a cavity formed in a wall structure at the place of business. |
| US07832624B2 |
Drawer type packing box
A pull type packing box comprises inner and outer containers. The outer container is a tube type box for receiving the inner container like a drawer. The outer container is provided with handles and performs the function of a shopping bag. As the outer container partially exposes a head portion of the inner container, a user can grasp the head portion to open the inner container, and information about an article can be printed on the exposed head portion. The strength of the mouth part of the outer container is increased so that the mouth part does not bend and the outer appearance of the packing box is not deteriorated. The outer container generates appropriate frictional force so that the drawer is not excessively opened and closed. The outer container includes a stopper for preventing the drawer from being separated from the outer container when opening the inner |
| US07832619B2 |
Method of making sputtering target
A method of making a large Mo billet or bar for a sputtering target wherein two or more bodies comprising Mo are placed adjacent one another (e.g. stacked one on the other) with Mo powder metal present at gaps or joints between the adjacent bodies. The adjacent bodies are hot isostatically pressed to form a diffusion bond at each of the metal-to-Mo powder layer-to-metal joint between adjacent bodies to form a billet or bar that can be machined or otherwise formed to provide a large sputtering target. The number and dimensions of the Mo bodies placed adjacent one another are selected to yield a desired large size the billet or bar suitable for the sputtering target. The billet or bar for the sputtering target exhibits a microstructure comprising equiaxed grains of less than 30 microns grain size and exhibits a low oxygen content of less than about 100 ppm by weight. |
| US07832614B2 |
Method of explosion welding to create an explosion welded article having a non-planar shape
An explosion welded article having a non-planar shape is provided. A method of preparing an apparatus for explosion welding is also provided, as is a method for forming an explosion welded article having a non-planar shape. |
| US07832612B2 |
Lockout arrangement for a surgical stapler
A surgical stapling instrument including a latch for securing first and second jaw members together, a cutting member which can be advanced and/or retracted relative to first and second jaw members, and, in addition, a lock which can prevent, or at least inhibit, the cutting member from being moved, or at least advanced, relative to the first and second jaw members before the latch has been closed. In at least one embodiment, the latch can be configured to engage the lock as the latch is moved from a fully open position to a fully closed position and operably disengage the lock from the cutting member. |
| US07832611B2 |
Steerable surgical stapler
Embodiments include a surgical device and a method. An embodiment of the surgical instrument includes at least one grasping jaw, the at least one grasping jaw being adapted to deliver surgical staples by a force generated from a force generator mechanism that is contained within the at least one grasping jaw or is in a proximity to the at least one grasping jaw. Another embodiment includes at least one grasping jaw, at least one delivery mechanism adapted to deliver surgical fasteners, the delivery mechanism being located in a proximity to or contained within the at least one grasping jaw, the surgical fasteners containing at least one shape-transforming material, at least one sensor, at least one chemical tissue sealant and at least one cutter. A method includes: grasping a body organ/tissue with at least one grasping jaw, adjusting a configuration of the grasping in response to a signal or a datum or an image, and releasing a surgical staple/fastener in response to the signal, datum or image. |
| US07832609B2 |
Stapler
A stapler has a base portion including a rotatable clinching portion, a magazine portion pivotally attached to rotate to a position on the base portion, a push-down portion pivotally attached to rotate to a position on the base portion to be disposed above the magazine portion which has a driving blade in the vicinity of a front end thereof, and a handle member pivotally attached to rotate to a handle support member fixed to the base portion in a position on the handle member which is adapted to be brought into contact with the vicinity of a front end of an upper portion of the push-down member to lower the push-down member. The clinching portion includes a slider which slides along support shafts to permit a lowering operation of the clinching portion. The handle member includes a roller in contact with the push-down portion. |
| US07832608B1 |
Universal hitch-mounted basket
A cargo carrier mountable to a hitch receiver of a vehicle includes a lightweight, open-air wire basket supported by a tough metal bracket. The bracket is reversible so that the carrier can be attached to different size hitch receivers. To simplify assembly, the mounting hardware for attaching the basket to the bracket is the same regardless of which size receiver is being used. The holes for the mounting hardware are positioned such that the fasteners can avoid carrying most of the cargo's weight. If the basket is evenly loaded with cargo, it is possible for the fasteners to carry substantially no weight whatsoever. When not in use, the basket is collapsible to lie generally flat against the bracket so that the cargo carrier can be readily stowed. |
| US07832607B2 |
Vehicle mounted bicycle rack
A bicycle support rack adapted to be mounted in a hitch receiver of a vehicle including a hollow upstanding tube having a parallel rod running therethrough, both extending from a lower hitch bar upwardly to a top plate. The top plate supporting a pair of rearwardly extending arms upon which one or more bicycles may be mounted for carrying by the vehicle. The tube and internal parallel rod both being adapted to pivot rearwardly while maintaining the bicycle supporting arms in a substantially parallel orientation with the vehicle hitch receiver. The tilting movement of the rack providing improved access to the rear of the vehicle. |
| US07832602B2 |
Crown sizer for metal hook hanger
A crown sizer for a metal hook hanger. The hanger includes a hook-receiving post having a pair of opposing projections extending outwardly therefrom. The sizer is mounted about the post, and includes a body formed of first and second pairs of opposing sidewalls. Each of the opposing sidewalls in the first pair includes an engagement shoulder on the interior surface thereof, the shoulders being located and sized to engage the projections thereby securing the sizer about the post. |
| US07832599B2 |
Dispensing and/or dosing system
A dosing and/or dispensing system for use with a liquid container such as an inverted. bottle or the like for dosing and/or dispensing liquid contents from the bottle. The system includes a throat plug assembly, wherein the throat plug assembly includes a normally closed, vertically movable first valve therein; a mounting ring having an inner face including threads thereon adapted to threadably receive the throat of the container; a knob having an actuator rod, wherein the actuator rod includes second and third vertically spaced valves mounted thereon for movement; and an improved venting device to ensure that the liquid is dosed or dispensed properly and accurately drains. |
| US07832597B2 |
Valve for a pressurized product dispensing container
An axially actuated valve primarily for use in a pressurized container having a dip tube comprises a vertical moveable valve element having a stem, button on the base of the stem and sidewall openings at the lower part of the stem. A resilient annular sealing grommet has a recess in its base into which the button fits. When the valve is closed, the button engages the ceiling of the recess to block product from reaching the sidewall openings. The button is within the recess at all times between its closed and open states. The button has upper and lower disc portions. The lower disc portion optionally has a tubular tail to engage a dip tube. The upper disc portion has edge recesses that provide communication between the stem wall openings and a zone created when the valve element is depressed. The button has a vertical passageway through the lower disc portion and a horizontal passageway between the two disc portions extending out to the edge recesses in the upper disc portion. When the valve is open, a passage is provided to dispense product through the passageways within the button to communicate with the stem sidewall openings. |
| US07832595B2 |
Household liquid dispenser with keyed spout fitment and refill
A household liquid dispenser has a spout fitment with discontinuous beads or screw threads which define axial channels to interface with a pump inlet in a lock and key arrangement so as to maintain consistent quality of liquids dispensed by preventing the substitution of product refills of uncertain quality. Refills may be readily manufactured and at low cost. Mechanical and motorized dispensers may be used with the inventive spout fitment. |
| US07832593B2 |
Method and system for supporting and/or aligning components of a liquid dispensing system
In a liquid dispensing system having a dispensing module and a gun manifold, the gun manifold includes a shelf portion that extends outwardly from its front face and the dispensing module includes a correspondingly shaped aperture configured to engage the shelf portion so that the dispensing module rests, or hangs, on the gun manifold without being held into place. From this position, the module can be easily and readily attached to the manifold. The shelf and aperture have complementary shapes and can be keyed so as to require the mating of the manifold and module in only one orientation. Additionally, an adaptor can be provided between the module and manifold so that smooth face manifolds and modules can still be coupled to corresponding manifolds and modules having shelves or apertures. |
| US07832592B2 |
Beverage dispensing gas consumption detection with alarm and backup operation
A CO2-based beverage dispensing system includes a CO2 monitoring unit operative to emit a warning upon detecting excessive consumption of CO2 gas. The CO2 monitoring unit includes a gas input port, a gas output port, a CO2 monitor, an alarm, and in one embodiment a shut-off valve. The CO2 monitor may measure CO2 gas flow rate or pressure, and indicate excessive CO2 gas consumption if the measured CO2 gas flow rate is above a predetermined flow rate or the measured CO2 gas pressure is below a predetermined pressure level. The CO2 monitor may include chronological functionality, and only indicate excessive CO2 gas consumption if the measured quantity trips a threshold for a predetermined duration. |
| US07832584B2 |
Blow molded tool chest with sliding connector components
A blow-molded carrying chest which includes an integrally molded frame with a top frame member slideably engaged with the left and right frame members. The frame includes a base frame member, and right and left frame members integrally molded to the base frame member. A top frame member is slideably engaged with the right and left frame members to secure the top frame member and assemble the carrying chest without requiring any fasteners. Below the top frame member is a plurality of drawers which are locked by hinged doors on the right and left frame members that prevent the plurality of drawers from sliding when the carrying chest is in transport. |
| US07832583B2 |
Hot-fillable container and method of making
A hot-fillable container that has an aesthetically pleasing shaped after the hot-fill process. The side walls of the container have structural aspects that permit the side walls to retain a substantially similar shape after the hot-fill process. This allows for an aesthetically pleasing design that compensates for the deformation that can occur during the hot-fill process. |
| US07832581B2 |
Closure and methods for placing and removing such a closure
The invention relates to a closure for a liquid container, comprising a plug manufactured from at least partially flexible material with a recess which is arranged at least substantially in axial direction in the plug and which is accessible on at least one side, and an operating member protruding outside the plug and displaceable in the recess such that a force exerted by the operating member on the recess in the plug can be modified by displacing the operating member. The invention also relates to methods for placing such a closure into a liquid container and removing thereof from a liquid container. |
| US07832578B1 |
Stacking feature for a child resistant push and turn closure and container combination
Complementary load bearing surfaces are provided on a child resistant closure and container combination forming at least one load carrying member preventing axial forces under stacking load conditions from causing biasing, child resistance, and/or seal failure when the closure is in a stacking position on the complimentary container. |
| US07832577B2 |
Child-resistant closure and package convertible to non-child-resistant operation
A package having child-resistant and non-child-resistant modes of operation includes a container having a neck finish with an open end, an external surface surrounding the open end and at least one external first engagement element spaced from the open end. A closure has a base portion, a skirt extending from the base portion, and at least one internal second engagement element on the skirt for engagement with the external first engagement element on the container neck finish in a child-resistant mode of operation. The skirt containing the second engagement element is severable from the base portion of the closure to convert the closure from a child-resistant mode of operation to a non-child-resistant mode of operation. A first annular element within the skirt is disposed for engagement with the external surface on the container neck finish to seal the package in the child-resistant mode of operation. A second annular element is disposed radially inwardly from the first annular element for engagement with the open mouth of the container neck finish to secure the closure to the container neck finish in the non-child-resistant mode of operation. |
| US07832575B2 |
Articulated joint coupling
An articulated joint coupling (1) for rail vehicles comprises a coupling lug (3), which engages into a coupling fork (4), and a spherical bearing (2) in the coupling lug (3), with the spherical bearing (2) having an inner ring (5) with a convex surface (6) which is pivotably mounted in an outer ring (7) with a concave surface (8), and with the outer ring (7) being fastened in an opening (14) of the coupling lug (3). To fasten the outer ring (7) in the opening (14) of the coupling lug (3), both the outer ring (7) and also the coupling lug (3) have in each case one groove (15, 17), with a clamping ring (18) lying in the groove (17) of the outer ring (7) and simultaneously in the groove (15) of the coupling lug (3). |
| US07832574B1 |
Portable collapsible garment support rack apparatus
The portable collapsible garment support rack apparatus provides several desirable features. First, the apparatus can be marginally or even completely disassembled to aid in portability and transport, as well as compact storage. Disassembly and reassembly are rapid and basic. The apparatus further provides adjustable height legs, and adjustable length by way of the expansion insert fitted within the two upper tubes. Each end of the apparatus, when in the expanded state, forms an a-frame type construction, with each end having a pair of braces extended downwardly and angularly to be braced against the first and second legs of each end, thereby bracing the a-frame shape. A cross brace is also provided at each end to pivotally and removably fasten the first leg to the second leg. Each of the braces is flat-ended for best mating with the related legs and with the upper tubes. |
| US07832573B2 |
Self-supporting suspension device and method for assembling thereof
A self-supporting suspension device may include vertically oriented columns. The columns may be releasably fastened to one or two feet by being inserted into slots of the respective feet and by surrounding a portion thereof. A stabilisation element may be fastened to two adjacent columns for lateral stability of the suspension device, and a locking beam or the stabilisation element may increase the torsional rigidity of the columns. |
| US07832570B1 |
Shelving construction
Shelving construction for customizing shelves used on interior walls of homes, offices or other buildings is described. Longitudinal members are first attached to a vertical interior wall for receiving shelf arms which are adjustably attached therealong. The longitudinal members are covered with a wood veneer and the shelf arms are then inserted into box-like wooden shelves which provide an all-wood appearance. The shelving construction can be easily modified by adding to the existing configuration. Each longitudinal member includes a series of grooves for receiving threaded plates which rotate for releasable engagement with the arms. |
| US07832569B1 |
Adjustable clothing display rack
An adjustable clothing display rack includes a base, a waist attached to the base, first and second laterally-spaced adjustable sides, and first and second shoulders. The adjustable sides have respective upper and lower ends. The lower ends are pivotably attached to the waist, such that the lateral spacing of the upper ends is adjustable independent of the lateral spacing of the lower ends. The first and second shoulders are formed at respective upper ends of the first and second sides. |
| US07832567B2 |
Drop-in filter for spray gun reservoir
A liquid supply assembly for use with a spray gun (FIG. 1) comprises a reservoir 9 provided with a drop-in filter 10 for removing solid particles from liquid added to the reservoir 9. The reservoir 9 has a lid 12 with an outlet opening 12E connectable via a spout 16 to the spray gun and a separate inlet opening 12D in which a support collar 27 of the filter 10 is located. The filter 10 comprises a tubular mesh body 10A having an open end and a closed end. The open end is connected to the support collar 27 and the mesh body 10A extends away from the inlet opening 12D within the reservoir 9. The mesh body 10A is sized to pass through the filler opening 12D and has a high flow capacity to permit rapid filling of the reservoir 9. The filter 10 may be left in place when the reservoir 9 is connected to the spray gun and the reservoir 9 may be discarded together with the filter 10 after use. |
| US07832564B2 |
Cosmetics case having structure of dual seal
A cosmetics case having a dual sealing structure is disclosed. The cosmetic case includes an outer case (1), an inner case (10), an inner lid (30), a rail case (20), and an outer lid (40). The outer case has a receiving chamber and a fastening groove. The inner case is received in the receiving chamber such that its fastening step is inserted into the fastening groove, and has a packing groove to receive a packing. A plurality of locking guides is provided on the outer circumference of the inner case. The inner lid is rotated around a second hinge pin, thus opening or closing the inner case, and the lower end of the inner lid comes into close contact with the packing. The rail case is mounted on the outer case. The outer lid includes projections that are guided along the corresponding locking guides. |
| US07832557B2 |
Golf bag
A golf bag for carrying a plurality of golf clubs in an organized fashion, comprising an elongated rigid or soft-sided container having a plurality of compartmentalized golf club receiving holes positioned partially around the perimeter of the top for holding the various golf clubs. A storage area comprised of a series of drawers or storage compartments are arranged vertically along one side of the golf bag wherein the golf club receiving compartments are positioned partially around the perimeter of the storage area. A pair of extendable stand-to legs and optional extensible handle and dolly may be further integrated into the design. A cart (either powered or manually pulled) may be securely attached to the bottom of the golf bag, wherein the drive means and battery are received within a central raised portion of the cart, complementary to a recess on the bottom of the golf bag. |
| US07832553B2 |
Heat-shrinkable holder for articles, heat-shrinkable package of articles, heat-shrinkable sleeve for articles, and method and device for packaging and sleeving articles
A heat-shrinkable holder for securing articles, a package securing such articles using heat-shrinkable sheets, a shrinkable sleeve, and a method and device for securing such articles using heat-shrinkable sheets and sleeves are disclosed. The holder is constructed so that it is separable when desired, and may comprise the labeling or the like for an article to be packaged. Releasable fasteners such as adhesives, heat seals, and/or perforations may be employed on the sheets. If desired, articles may be individually sleeved with a heat shrinkable film blank portion, which may function as labeling. |
| US07832552B2 |
Duo packaging for disposable soft contact lenses using a substrate
A contact lens package includes a substrate, a first sheet removably sealed to one side of the substrate, and a second sheet sealed to the other side of the substrate with a contact lens contained between the first and second sheets. |
| US07832547B2 |
Classifying gauge vacuum feeder
It relates to an equipment to transport and move material which transfer products in bulk into one by one; it receivers a certain amount of pieces (1) and delivers one by one to the next industrial process. This equipment transfers products from a belt conveyor (2) to a weighing system (8) of products on a constant flow; it comprises a rotating cylinder (5) with holes (9) on the cylindrical surface which suck the pieces (1) one by one discharging them in a sequence over a weighing and grading system (8). |
| US07832546B2 |
Star wheel
A star wheel for a bottle-processing machine, such as a filling machine, labeling machine or the like, includes a support fixed to a motor shaft and a wheel that is removably fixed to the support. The wheel has a base and a handling ring for the bottles, the handling ring being removably fixed to the base. The handling ring includes a primary sector and a removable sector which can be assembled with the primary sector. |
| US07832544B2 |
Batch transport of rod-shaped articles for the tobacco-processing industry
The invention relates to an apparatus structured and arranged to transport rod-shaped articles of the tobacco-processing industry in a mass flow between an outlet of a first machine and inlets of a plurality of second machines. The apparatus includes guide rails having an inlet side in fixed relation to the outlet of the first machine and a moveable outlet side. |
| US07832538B2 |
Complete power PTO disconnect assembly
A modularly designed mechanical or pressure activated power coupling and complete disconnect assembly independently mounted or directly coupled to a bell housing mount on a drive engine or powered side equipment has provisions for coupling the driveline power via an integrated torsional coupling, drive plate or other mechanism to the rotating member, engine, and powered side equipment. |
| US07832533B2 |
Article of luggage
A method of producing an article of luggage characterized by a “soft” case construction characterized by the steps of molding from a material exhibiting “soft” case characteristics lid forming and base forming sections of such construction as to be shape wise self supporting in the absence of a perimeter frame and side, base or back panels whereby the form of the case is established and maintained by the molded lid and base sections; and an article of luggage produced by the method and characterized by a “soft” case construction including lid and base forming sections of such construction as to be shape wise self supporting in the absence of a perimeter frame and side, base or back panels whereby the form of the case is established and maintained by the molded lid and base sections. |
| US07832532B2 |
Pivotal handle for towable baggage
A towing member for a piece of towable baggage is provide with towing handle that is pivotal relative to an arm portion of the towing member. The pivotal relation of the towing handle and the arm potion enables the towing handle to be rotated into a position where a person can grasp the towing handle in a comfortable position by his or her side when the piece of baggage is being towed. The pivotal relation of the towing handle and the arm potion also improves the maneuverability of a towable piece of baggage by reducing the need for a person to twist his or her wrist when steering the piece of baggage. The invention also allows the towing handle of retractable towing members to be pivoted into an appropriate position relative to the piece of baggage such that the towing handle lies flush with the baggage and will not become snagged on other items. |
| US07832531B2 |
Bicycle component fixing band
A bicycle component fixing band is provided with a first base part, a second base part, a hinge structure, a releasable connecting structure and a lock pin. The base parts are pivotally connected together at their pivot ends by the hinge structure. The releasable connecting structure releasably couples fastening ends of the base parts together. The lock pin is movable between a locking position and an unlocking position. The lock pin is engaged with both of the pivot ends of the base parts when the lock pin is in the locking position to prevent relative movement of the base parts. The lock pin is disengaged from one of the pivot ends of the base parts when the lock pin is in the unlocking position to permit relative movement of the base parts. |
| US07832530B2 |
Piston rod guide, in particular for a single-tube vibration damper
The invention relates to a vibration damper, comprising a cylinder (5) that is filled with damping medium, in which a piston rod (7) is guided in an axially movable manner by a piston rod guide (3), the lateral surface of the piston rod guide lying against an inner wall of the cylinder (5) and the piston rod guide being sealed in the direction of a working area at the piston rod end, the area of contact between the lateral surface (17) and the cylinder (5) relative to the working area (11) at the piston rod end having on the other side of the sealing area (23) at least one outlet (25, 29) in the direction of an outer end face (31) of the vibration damper. |
| US07832527B2 |
Image monitoring apparatus for detecting violent behavior in an elevator
In an image monitoring apparatus for an elevator, image recording means records an image in a car photographed by a camera, and monitors based on the image in the car whether or not there is a violent behavior of a passenger in the car. The image recording means makes a recording density of the image in the car higher than usual when the violent behavior of the passenger in the car is detected. The operation control means homes the car on a predetermined floor when the violent behavior of the passenger in the car is detected by the image recording means. |
| US07832526B2 |
Safety device for operator protection in low-height shaft bottom end elevators and elevator equipped therewith
The safety device according to the invention for operator protection in elevators with a low-height shaft bottom (5), is characterized in that it uses a brace (1) hinged on abase plate (3) secured to the bottom of the shaft (5) and arranged when folded in the horizontal position at a reduced height above the shaft bottom (5) in normal elevator operation, and a buffer element (9) secured underneath the car (11) and adapted to come into contact with a horizontal side surface of the brace (1) in its folded position, wherein said brace (1) is adapted to be moved by an appropriate lifting device (31) to a vertical lifted position in which the buffer element (9) can come into contact with an upper surface (15) of the brace (1), in a condition where the operator can work in the shaft bottom (5), wherein the length of the 15 brace added (1) to the thickness of the buffer element (9) provides for a sufficient depth between the underside of the car (11) and the shaft bottom (5) to suppress any risk for the operator to be crushed in the shaft bottom (5). |
| US07832525B2 |
Access platform for flatbeds
A flatbed servicing station provides a mobile elevated workers platform with an elongated deck. The platform is selectively moved toward and away from a flatbed and has safety features for stopping movement of the platform toward the flatbed when a foreign object is detected between the platform and the flatbed. A plurality of side-by-side safety gates are provided on the side of the deck adjacent the flatbed and a guard gate is provided which is positionable across the rear of the flatbed. Safety apparatus is provided to prevent injury of personnel disposed between a platform and a flatbed being serviced. |
| US07832521B2 |
Axle assembly and vehicle
An axle assembly for a vehicle, the axle assembly comprising a differential gear having an input for connection to a drive shaft, and a first wheel hub to support a first wheel and a second wheel hub to support a second wheel, the first wheel hub and the second wheel hub being drivingly connected to the differential gear, wherein the first wheel hub is drivingly connected to the differential gear via a reverser mechanism, the reverser mechanism having a first operating mode where the first wheel hub is driven in the same direction as the second wheel hub and a second operating mode where the first wheel hub is driven in the opposite direction to the second wheel hub. |
| US07832520B2 |
Work vehicle
Disclosed is a working vehicle capable of working and driving in stable condition while suppressing the adverse effect caused by the load variation such as sudden dashing from an associated ground working implement. The working vehicle comprises a controller for controlling the variator ratio of its toroidal mechanism to oppose the variation of the load when the toroidal mechanism is loaded on its output side. The controller adjusts the variator ratio appropriately when the engine starts. |
| US07832518B2 |
Torque distribution control in a motor vehicle
In a vehicle powertrain that continually transmits power to a first set of vehicle wheels and selectively transmits power through a clutch to a second set of vehicle wheels, a method for controlling the clutch includes determining that brakes for slowing the vehicle wheels are applied and that an accelerator pedal of the vehicle is depressed less than a reference magnitude, determining that the rate of change of the average front wheel speed is greater than the rate of change of the average rear wheel speed, and setting the torque capacity of the clutch to a target magnitude. |
| US07832516B2 |
Adjustable foot control for vehicle
A vehicle is described with moveable foot control levers to accommodate different size riders The vehicle has one or more fuel tanks. The fuel tanks may be arranged in a split side-by-side configuration. The vehicle has a rear suspension. The rear suspension may include a rear suspension having a linkage which moves in a direction not parallel with a centerline plane of the vehicle. The vehicle may include a tip-over structure. |
| US07832514B2 |
Axle drive unit for a hybrid electric vehicle
A drive unit for a hybrid electric motor vehicle includes an engine, an electric motor/generator, a layshaft supporting a first coupler and a second coupler, a first drive path including the layshaft and the first coupler for driveably connecting and disconnecting the engine and the motor/generator, and a second drive path including the layshaft and the second coupler for driveably connecting and disconnecting the engine and an output of the drive unit, the first coupler and the second coupler being operative to connect concurrently the engine, the motor/generator and said output. |
| US07832512B2 |
Hybrid vehicle
When at least one of a condition under which a parking brake is activated, a condition under which a shift lever is shifted to a parking range, a condition under which a shift to the neutral range is executed, and a condition under which a drive termination operation is executed is satisfied during an EV travel mode, a carrier shaft provided coaxially with a crankshaft is rotated by a motor generator, and a cumulative value of a travel distance counter obtained when an engine is stopped is reset. |
| US07832511B2 |
Hybrid electric vehicle control system and method of use
A rule-based fuzzy gain-scheduling proportional integral (PI) controller is provided to control desired engine power and speed behavior in a power-split HEV. The controller includes a fuzzy logic gain-scheduler and a modified PI controller that operates to improve on the control of engine power and speed in a power-split HEV versus using conventional PI control methods. The controller improves the engine power and speed behavior of a power-split HEV by eliminating overshoots, and by providing enhanced and uncompromised rise-time and settling-time. |
| US07832510B2 |
Power output apparatus for hybrid vehicle
A hybrid vehicle of the invention has an engine, a planetary gear unit including a carrier linked with rankshaft of the engine and a ring gear linked with a drive shaft, a motor MG1 inputting and outputting power to and from a sun gear of the planetary gear unit, and a motor MG2 inputting and outputting power to and from the drive shaft. During a drive of the hybrid vehicle in a light load state and under a drive restriction of the motor MG2, the hybrid vehicle corrects a target revolution speed Ne* of the engine to make a calculated average charge-discharge electric power Wbave of a battery equal to a charge-discharge electric power demand Wb*, while keeping a torque of the engine unchanged (steps S300 to S330), and controls actuation of the engine and the motors MG1 and MG2. |
| US07832506B2 |
Cutting elements with increased toughness and thermal fatigue resistance for drilling applications
Cutting elements offering increased toughness and thermal fatigue resistance can be formed of a wear resistant material having coarse grains disposed in a binder matrix with a binder content of at least about 18% by weight. The coarse grains include grains of at least one selected from the group of a transition metal carbide, a transition metal boride, and transition metal nitride. The binder content and coarse grain size may be selected to provide a Rockwell A hardness of at least about 75 Ra or a wear number of at least about 1.5. |
| US07832505B2 |
Rock bit with a thermal insulating seal ring positioned in the seal gland
A rock bit includes a shaft and a cone mounted for rotation about the shaft at a journal bearing. A seal gland for the rock bit is defined at least by the shaft and the cone. A compressible seal ring is positioned within the seal gland. A thermal insulating ring is installed within the seal gland and positioned between the compressible seal ring itself and the journal bearing to insulate the compressible seal ring from heat radiating from the journal bearing. |
| US07832502B2 |
Methods and apparatus for drilling directional wells by percussion method
The present invention generally relates to methods and apparatus for impact drilling. A drilling tool with a housing and a piston is provided. The drilling tool may be configured to impact while simultaneously rotating a drill head, independent from the rotation of a drill string. The drilling tool may include a rolling key assembly disposed between the housing and the piston that includes a bearing adapted to roll during a first direction of the piston and slide during a second direction of the piston. The drilling tool may include a clutch mechanism configured to rotate the drill head as the piston is directed in the first direction. |
| US07832500B2 |
Wellbore drilling method
A method and apparatus for drilling at least one wellbore from an offsite location is provided. Each wellbore is located at a wellsite having a drilling rig with a downhole drilling tool suspended therefrom. The downhole drilling tool is selectively advanced into the earth to form the wellbore. The downhole drilling tool is operated according to a wellsite setup. Wellsite parameters are collected from a plurality of sensors positioned about the wellsite. The wellsite parameters are transmitted to an offsite control center. The offsite control center performs an analysis of the wellsite parameters and automatically adjusts the wellsite setup from the offsite control center based on the analysis. |
| US07832494B2 |
Agricultural implement with flexible wing locking system
A tension member arrangement is disclosed that can be mounted between a central portion of an agricultural implement and a wing. The wing is configured to be raised and lowered by an actuator. The tension member is mounted to support structures on the central portion of the implement and on the wing once the wing is raised, to maintain the wing in the raised position. Stress may then be relieved from the actuator without the wing descending from the raised position. The tension member may be completely removed from the implement or may remain attached and employed only when needed to maintain the wing in the raised position. |
| US07832491B2 |
Well packing
Annular packer (2) arranged on the outside of a production tubing (4) said packer comprises a core (12) comprising elastic polymer swelling by absorption of hydrocarbons. The core (12) may be surrounded by an external mantle of rubber (10), which is permeable to hydrocarbons and may be equipped with a reinforcement (11). The core (12) swells by absorption of hydrocarbons and the packer (2) expands thus in order to seal the annular space (5) between the production tubing (4) and the well wall (6). |
| US07832486B2 |
Flapper gas lift valve
A gas lift valve has a flow restrictor, a valve part on one side of the flow restrictor, a flow deflector and a tubular member on another side of the flow restrictor, and a flapper valve on the side of the flow restrictor where the tubular member is located, the flapper valve being adjacent to the tubular member. When fluid flows into the gas lift valve at sufficient pressure, the valve part opens, the fluid flows through the flow restrictor and acts on the flow diverter thereby moving the tubular member and opening the flapper valve. The tubular member extends though the opening the flapper valve covered. |
| US07832484B2 |
Molten salt as a heat transfer fluid for heating a subsurface formation
A heating system for a subsurface formation includes a conduit located in an opening in the subsurface formation. An insulated conductor is located in the conduit. A material is in the conduit between a portion of the insulated conductor and a portion of the conduit. The material may be a salt. The material is a fluid at operating temperature of the heating system. Heat transfers from the insulated conductor to the fluid, from the fluid to the conduit, and from the conduit to the subsurface formation. |
| US07832483B2 |
Methods of recovering hydrocarbons from oil shale and sub-surface oil shale recovery arrangements for recovering hydrocarbons from oil shale
This invention includes methods of recovering hydrocarbons from oil shale, and sub-surface oil shale recovery arrangements for recovering hydrocarbons from oil shale. In one implementation, a sub-surface oil shale recovery arrangement for recovering hydrocarbons from oil shale includes a bore hole extending upwardly from a subterranean room into oil shale, with at least an upper part of the room being received within the oil shale and includes a wall through which the bore hole extends. The bore hole includes a lowest portion within the oil shale and an upper portion within the oil shale. A heating energy source extends from the subterranean room into the bore hole along the lowest portion and along the upper portion, insulation and/or cooling is received radially about the heating energy source extending along the lowest portion. Other aspects are contemplated. |
| US07832479B2 |
Polymeric extenders for flexible cement
A flexible cement stable at high temperatures contains an extender that is a finely ground polyetheretherketone. The cement retains its flexibility for long times at high temperatures, for example those used for steam assisted gravity drainage of heavy oil formations, for example from about 480 to about 644° F. (249 to 340° C.). Compressive strength, tensile strength, permeability and porosity are all stable and suitable for high temperature down-hole oilfield use. |
| US07832473B2 |
Method for controlling the flow of fluid between a downhole formation and a base pipe
A method is disclosed for controlling the flow of fluid between a downhole formation and a base pipe located in wellbore proximate the downhole formation. A plurality of chokes are established between the formation and the base pipe to regulate the flow of fluid between the formation and the base pipe. In one embodiment, each choke comprises a nozzle formed in the base pipe. In another embodiment, each choke comprises a nozzle in a housing arranged on the base pipe. A plurality of plugs are pumped downhole for engagement with the nozzles. The pressure in the wellbore is then increased until the plugs engage each nozzle. In an alternative embodiment, plugs are pumped downhole and stop up the housing containing the nozzles. Fluid flow between the base pipe and the downhole formation may be reestablished by dissolving the plugs or by back-flowing the production string to dislodge them. |
| US07832471B2 |
Fitting arrangements and methods of installing fitting arrangements in a well bore
A fitting arrangement and method of securing a fitting arrangement to a surface is provided. A plurality of adjacent fittings is coupled to and extends from a mounting surface of a structure in a well bore. Each fitting has an engagement surface that is configured to engage with an installation tool for coupling the fitting to the structure. The engagement surfaces of the adjacent fittings in the plurality are offset from each other to thereby define a clearance for the installation tool. |
| US07832468B2 |
System and method for controlling solids in a down-hole fluid pumping system
A system for controlling solids within a wellbore of a well includes a pump positioned within a substantially horizontal portion of the wellbore. A first tubing string is operatively connected between the pump and a surface of the well for removing liquid from the wellbore that is pumped by the pump. A second tubing string may also be operatively connected to the pump and extends downhole of the pump. Either or both of the first and second tubing string includes a longitudinal axis that is offset from an axis of rotation about which the second tubing string is capable of being rotated. |
| US07832467B2 |
Oil cooler
An oil cooler for a motor vehicle includes a fluid inlet tank and a fluid outlet tank. A plurality of heat transfer tubes provides constant fluid communication between the inlet tank and the outlet tank. A bypass arrangement provides additional fluid communication between the fluid inlet tank and the fluid outlet tank under a first operating condition and the bypass arrangement precludes additional fluid communication between the inlet tank and the outlet tank under a second operating condition. The bypass arrangement may include a bypass tube and an element for selectively blocking the bypass tube. The element for selectively blocking the bypass tube may be automatically response to a change in oil temperature or a change in oil pressure. |
| US07832465B2 |
Affordable and easy to install multi-zone HVAC system
The present invention is directed to a multiple zone climate control system which includes a HVAC unit that supplies conditioned air to more than one zone, a zone controller in each zone, a central controller, one or more air flow rate regulating devices in each zone, and a digital wireless network connecting the air flow rate regulating devices, zone controllers and the central controller. The multiple zone climate control system is capable of energy efficiently regulating temperature in each zone independently as well as providing other air conditioning functions such as humidifying, cleaning and filtering air in each zone independently. The multiple zone climate control system can be installed in a single zone climate control system to convert it into a multiple zone climate control system. |
| US07832462B2 |
Thermal energy transfer device
Device having first wick evaporator including first membrane and plurality of first thermally-conductive supports. First membrane has upper and lower surfaces. First membrane also has plurality of pores with upper pore ends at upper surface of first membrane and with lower pore ends at lower surface of first membrane. Each of first thermally-conductive supports has upper and lower support ends. Upper support ends of first thermally-conductive supports are in contact with first membrane. Each of first thermally-conductive supports has longitudinal axis extending between the upper and lower support ends, average cross-sectional area along axis, and membrane support cross-sectional area at upper support end, the membrane support cross-sectional area effectively being smaller than average cross-sectional area. First thermally-conductive supports are configured to conduct thermal energy from lower support ends of first thermally-conductive supports to first membrane. Process includes providing wick evaporator, providing liquid working fluid in contact with lower or upper surface of membrane, and causing liquid working fluid to be evaporated from liquid-vapor interface in membrane. |
| US07832458B2 |
Method for producing a casting mold from a composite mold material for foundry purposes
A method for producing a casting mold from a composite mold material for foundry purposes that is composed of different kinds of mold materials that are heat-resistant for the casting of metals and that differ in substantive composition or have different contents of organic or inorganic binders. A solid mold body is prepared from a foundry mold material A that is completely or partially encased during its preparation with a free-flowing chemically bonded foundry mold material B. A composite mold material block is formed after the hardening of the foundry mold material B, which is then machined by a cutting method such as milling, boring, turning, or grinding. The mold cavity is introduced into the mold body consisting of the foundry mold material A, and the inflow system and the feed system are introduced into the mold material block consisting of the foundry mold material B, using CAD data. |
| US07832455B1 |
Vehicle window security screen system
A vehicle window security screen system for providing interior ventilation of a vehicle while maintaining the security of the vehicle. The vehicle window security screen system generally includes a first frame having a first mesh and a second frame having a second mesh adjustably connected to one another. The first frame and the second frame form the shape of a window opening in a vehicle to secure the interior contents of a vehicle while simultaneously providing adequate ventilation. |
| US07832454B2 |
Screen enclosure privacy system
One embodiment of the present invention comprises a privacy system for use with an existing screen enclosure enclosing an area where privacy is desired. The screen enclosure includes vertical members attached to upper horizontal members to form a screen enclosure frame and a screen attached to the horizontal and vertical members. The privacy system comprises a substantially horizontal support member attached to the vertical members of the screen enclosure; a channel along a lower surface of the horizontal support member, the channel comprising stop elements at open ends of the channel; a plurality of fasteners having a first end slidably engaged with the channel, the stop dements cooperating with the channel to retain fasteners within the channel; a valence affixed to a surface of the support, the surface feeing toward an interior region of the enclosed area; and illumination devices attached to the tower surface of the horizontal support member between the valence and the privacy screen. |
| US07832453B2 |
Adjusting structure of a curtain for adjusting the angle of curtain blade
An adjustable structure of a curtain for adjusting the angle of curtain blades includes a winding tube disposed in an upper rail. A pulling string is wound around the winding tube for controlling the rise and fall of the curtain and then passes through the curtain blades. One end of the winding tube is disposed with a rubbing wheel for hanging the top end of a suspending string provided for insertion of the curtain blades. Thereby, during the rise and fall of the curtain blades, the suspending string is pulled towards the rotating direction of the winding tube, so that the angle of the curtain blades is adjusted. |
| US07832449B2 |
Tire mounting and dismounting methods and systems
Apparatus and methods are described for mounting and dismounting tires. Apparatus typically comprises a pressing assembly positionable relative to a fixed wheel rim such that the pressing assembly controls force distribution across selected portions of a tire causing a tire bead to be eased onto the wheel rim. The apparatus typically includes an axis of rotation perpendicular to the wheel rim axis and wherein the axis of rotation is positionable in a plane that includes the wheel rim axis. The wheel rim can be fixed to a base assembly and handles allow positioning and transmittal of force to the pressing assembly. A bead breaking assembly for deflating an inflated tire may be provided. Methods of operating these and other such apparatus are described. |
| US07832447B2 |
Specification-attaching apparatus
A specification-attaching apparatus includes a transferring unit for transferring a specification fed from a specification-feeding unit to an attaching unit that includes a suction member movable, in response to rotation of a pivot rod, in sequence among angularly spaced sucking, standby and releasing positions. The suction member is operable so as to switch from a non-sucking state to a sucking state when at the sucking position, thereby sucking the specification transferred from the transferring unit and to switch from the sucking state to the non-sucking state when at the releasing position, thereby releasing the specification sucked thereby. A container sprayed with glue by a glue-spraying unit is conveyed by a motor-driven container conveying unit to move in synchronization with and contact the suction member during movement of the suction member from the standby position to the releasing position so that the specification is attached to the container. |
| US07832445B2 |
Laminator assembly
A laminator assembly comprising a pair of rollers, the rollers defining a compression zone therebetween for compressing a substantially flat lamination pouch as the pouch is fed between the rollers and advanced through the compression zone for exit on the exit side of the rollers, a heat source being provided for heating the lamination pouch as the lamination pouch is compressed between the rollers, the laminator assembly further comprising two sets of blade members positioned on the exit side of the rollers and spaced from the compression-plane of the rollers, each set of blade members being arranged axially along a respective roller and in close proximity to the exterior surface of the respective roller for preventing the lamination pouch from passing between the roller and respective blade members. |
| US07832443B2 |
Surface treatment apparatus for printed sheets
A surface treatment apparatus for printed sheets that is capable of preventing radiation of UV rays onto printed sheets when out of use including a varnishing section for applying UV cure resin varnish on a printed sheet; a cylinder for conveying a printed sheet with the UV cure resin varnish applied thereon at the varnishing section; a film pressing part for pressing a transfer film onto a printed sheet on the cylinder; and a UV radiation part for curing UV cure resin varnish of a printed sheet onto which the transfer film is being pressed by the film pressing part. The UV radiation part is positioned close to the cylinder when the film pressing part is positioned close to the impression cylinder; and the UV radiation part is positioned away from the cylinder when the film pressing part is positioned away from the cylinder. |
| US07832442B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacture and use of composite fiber components
A fiber lay-up apparatus and method includes one or more fiber sources from at least one fiber supply wherein a fiber may be fed under tension to provide a pre-stress to the fiber. The fiber lay-up apparatus may include a resin impregnator for impregnating a fiber with a resin. The fiber may be impregnated under pressure to reduce friction, to provide a motive force to move the fiber through the impregnator, or to enhance control over impregnation. The fiber may be shaped by a fiber shaping unit including one or more active or passive shaping members that provide enhanced control over the shape and placement of the fiber as the fiber leaves the fiber lay-up apparatus. A cutting element for cutting a fiber as it is being layed-up may be positioned proximal to the one or more shaping members, and may enable the fiber lay-up apparatus to end the lay-up of one fiber (or set of fibers) and begin the lay-up of a new fiber (or set of fibers) without delay. A UV or other curing element may be provided downstream from the cutting element. A splicing unit may be employed to detect when a fiber supply is exhausted, and may splice a trailing end of an exhausted fiber supply to a leading end of a new fiber supply to provide a continuous (or substantially continuous) fiber feed. The splicing unit may also splice at least one sensor into a fiber being fed from the at least one fiber supply to provide information about the fiber either before, during, or after the fiber is layed-up. |
| US07832441B2 |
Corrugated cardboard machine and method of producing an endless web of corrugated cardboard
In a corrugated cardboard machine and in a method of producing a web of corrugated cardboard, an electronic control device is provided in order to avoid downtimes of the corrugated cardboard machine, said control device being designed such that at least one web length of the web of corrugated cardboard between the at least one production device and a longitudinal cutting device is detectable and an application width of the at least one production device is variable in dependence on the at least one web length. Changing the application width prevents an escape of glue from the sides so that there is no need for cleaning. |
| US07832438B2 |
Golf club head cover with storage
A golf club head cover with storage includes a cover body, a closure flap and a pocket. The cover body defines an interior cavity configured to receive a club head. A first portion of the closure flap is fixed relative to the cover body and a second portion of the closure flap is movable between a closed position and an opened position. In the closed position, the closure flap covers an opening of the interior cavity of the cover body. The pocket is disposed on the closure flap. |
| US07832435B1 |
Cutter head of a planar machine
A cutter head of a planer machine includes a rotatable mount body having opposite flat mount and counter regions that are symmetrical to each other, a cutter blade disposed to abut against the flat mount region so as to enable a cutting edge to extend beyond a lateral end of the mount region, a press member having a tightened body which is tightened against the mount region, and a pressing strip which is brought to press the cutter blade against the mount region, and a counterweight disposed on the counter region so as to balance the combined weights of the cutter blade and the press member for smoothing the rotation of the mount body. |
| US07832433B2 |
Hydrogen generating fuel cell cartridges
A gas-generating apparatus includes a fuel storage chamber having a fuel gas stored within a plurality of microspheres. A releasing mechanism releases the gas from the microspheres, such as by fracturing the spheres or diffusing the gas through the spheres. A ratcheting mechanism controls the release of the gas, such as hydrogen, from the microspheres. The ratcheting mechanism is controlled by either the pressure within the fuel storage chamber or an electronic controller. Additionally, the gas-generating apparatus of the present invention includes a fuel introducing system that has a fuel transporting system that is pressure regulated. |
| US07832432B2 |
Chemical delivery apparatus for CVD or ALD
Embodiments described herein provide ampoule assemblies to contain, store, or dispense chemical precursors. In one embodiment, an ampoule assembly is provided which includes an ampoule containing a first material layer disposed on the outside of the ampoule and a second material layer disposed over the first material layer, wherein the first material layer is thermally more conductive than the second material layer, an inlet line in fluid communication with the ampoule and containing a first manual shut-off valve disposed therein, an outlet line in fluid communication with the ampoule and containing a second manual shut-off valve disposed therein, and a first bypass line connected between the inlet line and the outlet line. In some embodiments, the ampoule assembly may contain disconnect fittings. In other embodiments, the first bypass line has a shut-off valve disposed therein to fluidly couple or decouple the inlet line and the outlet line. |
| US07832429B2 |
Microfluidic pump and valve structures and fabrication methods
Plastic microfluidic structures having a substantially rigid diaphragm that actuates between a relaxed state wherein the diaphragm sits against the surface of a substrate and an actuated state wherein the diaphragm is moved away from the substrate. As will be seen from the following description, the microfluidic structures formed with this diaphragm provide easy to manufacture and robust systems, as well readily made components such as valves and pumps. |
| US07832427B2 |
Control valve arrangements
A valve arrangement includes a valve member, which rotates continuously in one sense. The generally cylindrical head of the valve member, within the housing, is formed to co-operate with various ports to create reciprocation in the actuator. It is preferred to provide some vibration of the valve member, to assist in overcoming the effects of friction. |
| US07832426B2 |
Parabolic bonnet for three-way valve
A fluid control device including a valve body, a control member, and a one-piece bonnet. The valve body defines a flow path for a fluid. The control member is disposed in the valve body and adapted for displacement between at least a first position and a second position. The one-piece bonnet is coupled to the valve body and defines a protrusion. The protrusion extends at least partially into the flow path and is arranged to direct at least some of the fluid flowing along the flow path when the control member is disposed between the first position and the second position. |
| US07832425B2 |
Flow for port guided globe valve
A valve assembly includes a valve body, a valve seat, and a valve plug. The valve body defines a flow path for a fluid. The valve plug is adapted for displacement between a closed position and an open position in the valve body. The valve plug includes a crown, a skirt and a protrusion. The crown is for sealingly engaging the valve seat when the valve plug is in the closed position. The skirt defines a flow path for accommodating the fluid when the valve plug is in the open position. The protrusion is substantially concentrically aligned with the skirt. Each of the skirt or the protrusion have a surface treatment for enhancing the flow of the fluid through the valve when in the one or more open positions. |
| US07832421B2 |
System and method for making hot water available in a domestic water installation and domestic water installation
A method, system and device for making hot water available in a water-supply system is disclosed. The water-supply system includes a source of hot water, a hot-water line and one or more tap connections for hot water connected to the hot-water line. The method includes transporting water from the source of hot water through the hot-water line during at least a portion of periods of non-withdrawal through the one or more tap connections such that a temperature profile of water in the hot water line is at least one of substantially temporally constant and varying spatially monotonically along the hot-water line. |
| US07832420B2 |
Saddle tee
An improved saddle tee for branching a conduit from a main line is disclosed. The saddle tee includes a base unit that defines an opening for receiving a tap and interlocking jaws for securing the base unit to a main line. The tap may include a shaped portion for receiving a tool interface to rotate the tap to drive the tap into the main line. The tool interface could be secured to a power tool to enable rapid driving of the saddle tee into the main line. The saddle tee may also include offset arcuate interlocking jaws to enable the jaws to interlock around the main line with ease. Optional interface surfaces on the tap and base unit enable the tap and base unit to interlock to limit rotation of the tap relative to the base unit when the tap is fully inserted into the base unit. |
| US07832419B2 |
Extra width dishwasher
A dishwasher includes a cabinet and a wash system slidably mounted within the cabinet in such a manner that it may be withdrawn horizontally out of the cabinet for loading with dishes. The wash system includes an open top wash chamber having a floor and side walls adapted to accommodate dishes within which wash liquid is sprayed. Two rotating spray arms are mounted in the bottom of the chamber for producing a spray of wash liquid within the chamber. A wash pump for pressurizing wash liquid discharges into a manifold located on the floor of the chamber. The spray arms receive wash liquid from the manifold. A drain pump evacuates wash liquid from said chamber. A wash chamber closure is mounted in the top of the cabinet. The closure engages with the wash chamber opening to sealably close off the wash chamber on its retraction into the cabinet. |
| US07832416B2 |
Imprint lithography apparatus and methods
An imprint lithography apparatus including a service station. |
| US07832413B2 |
Therapeutic styling brush with infusion delivery
The present disclosure is generally directed to styling tools having a therapeutic agent distributed through the styling tool bristles or pad. |
| US07832407B2 |
Obesity treatment systems
In some embodiments, methods to sense parameters associated with restriction procedures and/or devices are disclosed. In some embodiments, the parameters are sensed directly from the region of the procedure and/or device and in other embodiments, associated neural pathways are sensed. Methods for further optimization of the obesity treatment regimens are also disclosed. |
| US07832406B2 |
Percutaneous myocardial revascularization
Devices and methods for creating a series of percutaneous myocardial revascularization (PMR) channels in the heart. One method includes forming a pattern of channels in the myocardium leading from healthy tissue to hibernating tissue. Suitable channel patterns include lines and arrays. One method includes anchoring a radiopaque marker to a position in the ventricle wall, then using fluoroscopy repeatedly to guide positioning of a cutting tip in the formation of multiple channels. Another method uses radiopaque material injected into each channel formed, as a marker. Yet another method utilizes an anchorable, rotatable cutting probe for channel formation about an anchor member, where the cutting probe can vary in radial distance from the anchor. Still another method utilizes a multiple wire radio frequency burning probe, for formation of multiple channels simultaneously. Still another method utilizes liquid nitrogen to cause localized tissue death. |
| US07832404B2 |
Low profile mouthguard
A dental appliance for prevention of Bruxism includes a U-shaped buccal strap having opposing right and left aft end portions. A right bite pad assembly is slidingly connected to and completely encloses the right aft end portion of the buccal strap. A left bite pad assembly is slidingly connected to and completely encloses the left aft end portion of the buccal strap. The right bite pad assembly can include a right upper bite surface member for contacting right upper molars of a wearer and a right lower bite surface member for contacting right lower molars of the wearer. The left bite pad assembly can include a left upper bite surface member for contacting left upper molars of a wearer and a left lower bite surface member for contacting left lower molars of the wearer. A right channel extends through the right upper bite surface member and the right lower bite surface member. A left channel extends through the left upper bite surface member and the left lower bite surface member. The right channel receives the right aft end portion of the buccal strap, and the left channel receives the left aft end portion of the buccal strap. |
| US07832403B2 |
Mandible positioning devices
A pharyngeal airway adjuster, or mandible positioning device, has a maxillary dentition engagement component and a mandibular dentition engagement component, each on opposite sides of a plane extending therebetween. An adjustable connection couples the maxillary dentition engagement component with the mandibular dentition engagement component. The adjustable connection has a first adjustment screw having a longitudinal axis parallel to the plane and a second adjustment screw having a longitudinal axis perpendicular to the plane. The first and second adjustable screws are independently adjustable and structured to effect horizontal and vertical displacement, respectively, of the maxillary dentition engagement component relative to the mandibular dentition engagement component. The pharyngeal airway adjuster has a number of indicators adapted to indicate the amount of forwardly and rearwardly displacement effected by the first adjustment screw and/or the amount of upwardly and downwardly displacement effected by the second adjustment screw. |
| US07832401B2 |
Hip distraction
An apparatus includes a distractor assembly adapted to couple to a leg and capable of providing a distraction load on the leg in both supine and lateral positions of the leg. The assembly is coupled to a surgical table by a ball joint or a universal joint. A method includes coupling a leg to a distractor assembly, positioning the leg in one of a distraction mode and a femoral acetabular impingement mode, and repositioning the leg in the other of the modes without the need for accessing a draped pelvis/thigh region. |
| US07832398B2 |
Arrangement in connection with an anaesthesia/ventilation system for a patient and a gas separation unit for an anaesthesia/ventilation system
Arrangement in connection with an anaesthesia/ventilation system for a patient comprising means for flowing inspiratory gas to the patient and means for flowing expiratory gas from the patient to a gas separation means and further through the gas separation means back to the inspiratory flow. The gas separation means comprises a chamber unit having a high pressure side and a low pressure side, the high pressure side and the low pressure side being separated by a membrane where carriers are fixed on polymer backbone. The expiratory gas from the patient containing retentates such as anaesthetic agents, N2O, O2, air, and permeates such as CO2, flows to the high pressure side of the chamber unit to have contact with the membrane surface whereby the membrane reacts with the permeates so that the permeates flow through the membrane to the low pressure side of the chamber unit and the retentates flow through the high pressure side of the chamber unit without permeating the membrane. |
| US07832397B2 |
Aerosol powder delivery device
An aerosol powder delivery device, a method of producing or delivering aerosol particles, a method of making a delivery device, and an inhaler kit are provided. The device can be used to produce an aerosolizable powder by breaking or deagglomerating the aerosolizable powder into aerosol particles for inhalation. The aerosol particles can be produced by mechanically agitating or shaking a hollow device with the aerosolizable powder and a second powder to mechanically break or loosen aerosol particles from the aerosolizable powder. Thus, a small, lightweight, simple, sealed and stable device without complex moving parts, external power sources or heat is provided to aerosolize powder into aerosol particles for transmucosal delivery into a mouth upon inhalation. |
| US07832396B2 |
High air flow powered air purifying anti-contamination device
A high output, powered air purifying respirator that includes an anti-contamination suit, a filter for filtering particulates from the air, a high powered blower for delivering a cool flow of air to the body, and a stabilization mechanism. The stabilization mechanism is configurable in either head mounted or back mounted modules as desired by a worker. The head mounted configuration facilitates stream lined mobility and includes a head mounted suspension system with a circular rail and roller bearing halo around the worker's head for stabilizing the blower/filter and allowing for rotation of the worker's head inside the halo. The invention also includes additional modules, also configurable by the user, such as personal hydration and independent camera and dosimeter support. |
| US07832395B2 |
Portable oxygen delivery apparatus
A portable breathable gas delivery device including a pressure vessel for storing the breathable gas under pressure and a valve coupled to the pressure vessel through which the breathable gas can be selectively released. The pressure vessel is enclosed in a housing having a first portion that at least partially encloses the pressure vessel and a second portion that partially encloses a chamber coupled to the pressure vessel via the valve into which the breathable gas can be released for breathing by a user. The second portion together with a user's facial structure forms a substantially closed enclosure. The chamber has an opening shaped and formed to interface with the user's facial structure. |
| US07832392B2 |
Solar air conditioning device
A solar air conditioning device (100) includes a solar collector assembly (30), an inlet assembly (10) at an entrance of the solar collector assembly, and an outlet assembly (50) at an exit of the solar collector assembly. The solar collector assembly includes a heat-absorbing set (31) and a transparent panel (38) being assembled to a top of the heat-absorbing set. The heat-absorbing set comprises a plurality of heat-absorbing units (32) engaged with each other. Each of the heat-absorbing units includes two adjacent supporting members (33) and a heat-absorbing plate (35) sandwiched between and buckled with the two supporting members. The heat-absorbing set defines an air channel (314) with the transparent panel and a heat-absorbing channel (315) below the air channel. The inlet and outlet assemblies are in fluidic communication with the heat-absorbing channel. |
| US07832391B2 |
Range exhaust cleaning system
A cleaning system for a cooking range exhaust having a hood, a backsplash, and a flue for exhausting cooking effluent is disclosed. The cleaning system includes a fluid delivery system constructed for placement within the cooking range exhaust. The fluid delivery system includes a hood spray conduit constructed for placement within the hood and comprising spray openings for directing a degreasing composition to the backsplash. The fluid delivery system includes a flue spray conduit constructed for placement within the flue and comprising spray openings for directing the degreasing composition to an interior surface of the flue. The cleaning system includes a pump system constructed for conveying the degreasing composition from a degreasing composition source and through the fluid delivery system. The cleaning system includes a collection reservoir constructed to collect degreasing composition runoff from the cooking range exhaust. A method of cleaning a cooking range exhaust and a self-cleaning exhaust system are also disclosed. |
| US07832389B2 |
Magnetic drive bypass system for paintball loader
A drive system for a regulating the rotation of a drive system or agitator in a paintball loader is disclosed. It is designed to regulate the rotation of a feeder, especially during a jam or when projectiles in a hopper become misaligned. This allows a user to quickly and effectively clear a jam and resume or continue rapid fire without damaging projectiles, the loader or the paintball marker. |
| US07832387B1 |
Center-pivot limbs for an archery bow
An archery bow comprises an elongated riser, two coupling members, and two bow limbs. The riser has a pair of distal pivotable connection points, a pair of proximal pivotable connection points between the distal connection points, and a central handle portion between the proximal connection points. Each coupling member is pivotably connected at a first pivotable connection point thereof to the riser at a corresponding proximal connection point thereof. Each bow limb is pivotably connected to the riser at a corresponding distal pivotable connection point thereof and pivotably connected to a corresponding coupling member at a second pivotable connection point thereof. Each bow limb is adapted at a pulley pivotable connection point thereof to receive a pulley member pivotably connected thereto. |
| US07832385B1 |
Ripple reduction in electromagnetic launcher current from pulsed alternators
Systems and methods for improving the current pulse from multiple pairs of pulsed alternators used for driving large loads such as an electromagnetic launcher (i.e., “rail gun”) load. Conventional current pulse ripples are reduced by interleaving pulses from multiple pairs of contra-rotating pulsed alternators. Current pulses supplied by different pairs of pulsed alternators are timed so that they are interspersed between one another to provide more pulses for a given launch time. The interleaved current pulses increase the frequency and reduce the magnitude of the ripple on the average load current. |
| US07832381B2 |
Method of operating an internal combustion engine
A method for operating an internal combustion engine in the form of an Otto engine, especially of a motor vehicle, selectively uses carburetor fuel, especially gasoline or ethanol (E85) by direct injection into at least one combustion chamber of the internal combustion engine by means of at least one fuel injector. Optionally, instead of injecting ignition spark engine fuel or in addition to injecting ignition spark engine fuel, the internal combustion engine is operated with gas, especially CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) or LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas). A mixture adaptation value is continuously determined during the operation of the internal combustion engine with spark ignition engine fuel. An actual mixture adaptation value is stored in a memory during the operation of the internal combustion engine with the spark ignition engine fuel and, after a predetermined minimum duration of operation with gas, an actual mixture adaptation value is compared with the stored mixture adaptation value during the operation of the internal combustion engine with ignition spark engine fuel. The fuel injectors are scavenged when a difference between the actual mixture adaptation value and the stored mixture adaptation value exceeds a predetermined difference value. |
| US07832380B1 |
Marine fuel system with an ullage control device
A marine engine fuel system provides a low pressure lift pump to draw fuel from a fuel tank and cause the fuel to flow into a reservoir and a high pressure fuel pump which draws fuel from the reservoir and provides it to a fuel rail. An inlet conduit of the high pressure fuel pump is provided with a primary and a secondary opening. The secondary opening can be an orifice formed through a wall of the inlet conduit. The secondary opening is positioned, relative to the primary opening, at a location which assists in controlling the fuel level within the reservoir and the quantity of gaseous fuel contained within an ullage above the liquid pool of fuel. |
| US07832379B2 |
Device for pumping fuel
A devices for pumping fuel has at least one suction jet pump and a drive line, supplying the suction jet pump with fuel, that branches off from a pressure line leading to an internal combustion engine and that can be blocked off by means of a shutoff valve. By means of a shutoff valve, it is possible to switch off the suction jet pumps. The pressure of the pressure line acts on the shutoff valve in such a way that the shutoff valve closes at a pressure that is greater than or equal to a predetermined closing pressure. |
| US07832376B2 |
Damping element for a fuel injection valve
Damping elements for a fuel injection valve insertable into a receiving conduit of a cylinder head of an internal combustion engine are disposed between a valve housing of the fuel injection valve and a wall of the receiving conduit of the cylinder head. These damping elements, inter alia, decrease acoustic transfer from the fuel injection valve to the cylinder head. It is disadvantageous that conventional damping elements require a great deal of axial installation space with respect to a valve axis and have comparatively high manufacturing costs. With the damping element according to example embodiments of the present invention, the installation space required is reduced. Provision is made, according to example embodiments of the present invention, for the damping element to be in plate-shaped fashion. |
| US07832374B2 |
Fuel pressure amplifier
The present invention relates to systems and methods for pressurization of a fuel line of an engine. In one embodiment, a fuel charging system for an engine is provided. The fuel charging system includes a first fuel pump in fluid communication with a fuel tank to generate a first fluid pressure within a first fuel line. The fuel charging system also includes a second fluid pump having a reciprocating piston including a low pressure end and a high pressure end. The low pressure end is in fluid communication with the first fuel pump through the first fuel line and the high pressure end is in fluid communication with an engine fuel rail through a second fuel line. The reciprocating piston is driven by the first fluid pressure to generate a second fluid pressure within the second fuel line, wherein the second fluid pressure is greater than the first fluid pressure. |
| US07832373B2 |
Valve control apparatus of internal combustion engine
A valve control apparatus of a diesel engine (1) is provided with an EGR valve (30), which is provided in an EGR passage (26) of the engine (1) and varies the flow rate of exhaust gas flowing through a passage (26) by carrying out an opening and closing motion, and an actuator (28), which executes a sticking avoiding operation for dissolving or preventing a sticking of a valve (30) by causing the valve (30) to move to and fro so as to open and close the valve (30) by a predetermined moving amount respectively in one direction and the other direction near a full-close position of the valve (30). The apparatus inhibits the sticking avoiding operation by the actuator (28) when an ignition OFF operation is carried out without starting an operation of the engine (1) after an ignition ON operation is carried out. As a result, it is possible to prevent a useless valve opening and closing motion and achieve power saving. |
| US07832372B2 |
Combustion control via homogeneous combustion radical ignition (HCRI) or partial HCRI in cyclic IC engines
A process is provided for enhancing homogeneous combustion and improving ignition in rotary and reciprocating piston IC engines. Physical embodiments supporting this process have secondary chambers embedded in the cylinder periphery to initiate radical ignition (“RI”) species generation in an earlier cycle for use in the main chamber combustion of a later cycle. These communicate with the main chamber via small conduits. Coordinated with the progressions facilitated by these secondary chambers are novel control measures for regulating the quantities of RI species ultimately generated for and conveyed to the later cycle. The pre-determinable presence of RI species so supplied then alters or adds controlled variety to the dominant chain-initiation reactions of the main combustion ignition mechanism of the later cycle. This presence does so by lowering both the heat and the fuel ratios required for starting and sustaining combustion. While this presence dominates in RI mode embodiments, this presence can also assist ignition and combustion in embodiments that are instead dominated by the spark ignition (“SI”) and compression ignition (“CI”) modes. The process results in improved combustion with increased efficiencies, decreased emissions and a wider range of fuel tolerances. |
| US07832368B2 |
Opposite radial rotary-piston engine of Choronski
A two-stroke opposite radial rotary-piston engine is proposed, comprising a block including sleeves, pairs of pistons disposed within the sleeves and oppositely movable, guiding bearings, a power takeoff shaft, rotors mounted thereon having an inner surface formed by a closed curved line, the rotors' transverse axes are predeterminedly disposed. On the frontal part, the rotors have concaved surface portions along the curved line. T-like traverses are mounted, pair-wise spanning the pistons. The traverses include convex protrusions, cooperating with the concaved portions during the start of the engine. A clearance between the concaved and convex portions is provided after the start. The engine comprises support bearings, coupled to traverses. Support bearings include an external bushing, rolling over the inner surface of the rotor associated with the traverse, thereby impelling the rotor. Other elements and alternative module embodiments are added, enhancing the efficiency, size, weight, and power variety of the engine. |
| US07832363B1 |
Adjustable livestock alleyway
An adjustable livestock alleyway includes an alleyway frame, a center frame and first and second panels which define two side by side alleyways within the alleyway frame. The first and second panels are pivotably mounted to the center frame to pivot between a first open position in which the panels are pivoted toward the center frame and a second constricted position in which the panel are pivoted away from the center frame. A linkage connecting between the center frame and the first and second panels is powered by an actuator in order to pivot the first and second panels between the first and second positions such that the widths of both side by side alleyways may be changed to a desired width. |
| US07832360B2 |
Method and composition for washing poultry during processing
The present invention relates to compositions including peroxyacetic acid and peroxyoctanoic acid and methods for reducing microbial contamination on poultry. The methods include the step of applying a mixed peroxycarboxylic acid composition to poultry. |
| US07832359B2 |
Method for enhancing poultry production
A method and apparatus is provided for raising poultry, such as chickens, for food production. In a first embodiment, the method includes the steps of: providing a facility for housing the poultry, providing at least one light-absorbing ventilation fan associated with the facility for ventilating the facility, exposing an interior of the facility to natural light cycles of an outside environment for a first period and regulating light cycles of the interior for a second period, thereby mimicking daylight duration variation representative of seasonal changes for stimulating sexual development of the poultry. In a second embodiment, the method includes the steps of: providing a facility for housing the poultry, providing at least one light-absorbing ventilation fan associated with the facility for ventilating the facility, limiting exposure of an interior of the facility to light to produce a brown-out effect therein for enhancing physical development of the poultry. |
| US07832352B2 |
Coating treatment method and coating treatment apparatus
To perform a series of resist coating treatments from application of a resist solution to removal of a resist film on a wafer edge portion in a shorter time.A laser irradiation unit for applying a laser light is provided in a resist coating unit. At the time of resist coating treatment, the resist solution is discharged onto a central portion of the rotated wafer from a resist solution supply nozzle to form a resist film on the wafer. Thereafter, the laser irradiation unit moves to an outer peripheral portion of the wafer and applies the laser light onto the resist film on the outer peripheral portion to dry the resist film on the outer peripheral portion. After the resist film on the outer peripheral portion dries, the application of laser light is continued, and the solvent supply nozzle moves to a position above the edge portion of the wafer and supplies the solvent to the resist film on the edge portion of the wafer. The supply of the solvent dissolves and removes the resist film on the edge portion of the wafer. |
| US07832348B2 |
Emergency watercraft
Disclosed is a watercraft for use in combination with a PWC or suitable shallow draft propulsion system. The watercraft is designed to operate in emergency conditions where flood waters leave an uncharted bottom that may be as little as twelve inches deep or conceal a submerged object. The watercraft includes a ramp allowing for the ease of loading including wheelchair bound and bed-bound patients as well as supplies such as water, food, medical supplies, generators, and water filtration systems. The watercraft is based upon two pontoons having a storable floor and support structure, the support structure overlays a portion of each pontoon. |
| US07832344B2 |
Method and apparatus of treating waste
A waste treatment system processes waste upon the application of energy. The system includes a vessel, and a plurality of plasma torches. Organic and/or inorganic waste may be introduced into the vessel, and the plasma torches may supply energy to treat the waste. The vessel is shaped to facilitate a cyclonic or substantially cyclonic flow of the contents within the vessel. The plasma torches may be positioned to enhance the cyclonic flow within the vessel. |
| US07832338B2 |
Exhaust intake bonnet for capturing exhausts from diesel-powered locomotives
A bonnet captures exhaust gases from the exhaust pipes of diesel-powered locomotives. The bonnet includes a shell with a compliant fender. One or more of the bonnets are positioned over the exhaust pipe or pipes of the locomotive and are secured to the exhaust pipes or to a top surface of the locomotive. The bonnets are connected to a manifold, and the manifold carries the exhaust gasses to an Emissions Control Unit (ECU) for processing. The bonnets enclose a volume above and/or around the exhaust pipes and the compliant bumper closes against the internal or external surface of the exhaust pipe or pipes or against the top surface of the locomotive surrounding the exhaust pipe or pipes. The closing prevents or limits outside air from entering the bonnet and the exhaust gases from being emitted to the atmosphere. |
| US07832337B2 |
Shellcase for controlling reflections of primer shockwaves
A shellcase body for use as part of an ammunition cartridge, which includes a base portion at one end, a middle portion having a substantially straight sidewall and joined with the base portion, and a shoulder portion joined to and extending from the middle portion. A neck portion may be joined to and extend from the shoulder portion. The shoulder portion is typically annularly shaped and includes a semi-circular sidewall that extends between an aft end and a fore end. The semi-circular sidewall has a curvature that is defined by a circular arc having a predetermined radius and a center that is positioned a distance away from the shellcase body center longitudinal axis. The shoulder portion is joined with the straight sidewall at a secant point of the circular arc, i.e., the straight sidewall defines a secant line that intersects the circular arc at the aforementioned secant point. |
| US07832334B2 |
Printing blanket with convex carrier layer
A printing blanket includes a carrier sleeve layer having at least one axially convex surface and a print layer disposed over the carrier sleeve layer. A blanket cylinder with a convex outer surface and a convex shim is also provided. An offset printing press is also provided. |
| US07832331B2 |
Slide position sensor and press machine
A slide position sensor includes: a link supporting member projecting from the slide toward the upright, a dual axis link member whose first end is rotatably supported and hung by the link supporting member, a plate rotatably supported and hung by a second end of the dual axis link member, a rack that is provided to the plate and extends in the hanging direction, a pinion that meshes with the rack and an encoder system that senses the rotation of the pinion. |
| US07832330B1 |
Cooker to smoker adapter
A cooker to smoker adapter is provided, and in one embodiment the cooker to smoker adapter includes first and second walls constructed to cooperate with a wall of a cooker to provide a fuel containment zone for receipt of fuel to be used in a smoking process. In another embodiment, one of the walls includes at least one aperture to readily permit the addition of fuel to the fuel containment zone. In yet another embodiment, a second aperture is provided in one of the walls, this aperture being adapted to receive a reservoir for a liquid. In a further embodiment, a liquid holding reservoir is provided integral with one of the walls. In another embodiment, stand-alone structures are provided to define a fuel containment zone to permit the burning of fuel while avoiding direct radiant transmission of heat from the fuel containment zone to a food which is being smoked. In one embodiment, the stand-alone structure is adapted to receive a reservoir for water. In a further one of the stand-alone embodiments, a cap is provided on the cooker to smoker adapter structure. In the stand-alone cooker to smoker adapters an aperture is included in the walls to permit the addition of fuel into a fuel containment zone. In the free-standing cooker to smoker adapters, a chute may also be provided to facilitate the addition of fuel into the fuel containment zone. |
| US07832329B2 |
Moka coffee machine and method for preparing a coffee-flavoured drink
The invention refers to a moka coffee machine, basically traditional, modified in order to obtain an expresso coffee without altering the organoleptic properties thereof. The machine according to the invention allows to control the temperature of the water inside the boiler, and to prepare the drink without having the water reaching exceedingly high pressures. |
| US07832327B2 |
Ring sealed diaphragm
A diaphragm actuator for a fluid process control device comprises a housing, a diaphragm, a stem, and a plate assembly. The plate assembly includes a concave plate and a convex plate, each having inner and outer radial portions. The outer radial portions compressingly engage and retain the diaphragm. The inner radial portions are compressed together onto the stem between a shoulder of the stem and a nut threaded onto the stem. Accordingly, the concave plate forcibly engages and provides a fluid-tight seal directly with the shoulder of the stem without requiring an o-ring or any other additional sealing component. Moreover, the concave and convex plates are structurally equivalent such that the actuator may easily be switched between a biased-open configuration and a biased-closed configuration. |
| US07832326B1 |
Auto-loading firearm with gas piston facility
A firearm has a body with a bolt assembly reciprocating within the body. A barrel having a bore extends from the body. A gas block with an elongated chamber is connected to the barrel, and a gas passage connects the barrel bore to the gas block chamber. An operating rod has a forward end portion closely received in the gas block chamber and a rear end positioned to operably engage the bolt assembly. The gas block chamber has a forward portion closely receiving the forward end portion of the rod, and the gas block chamber has a rear portion with a profile larger than the forward portion. The forward portion of the rod may be a cylinder, and the rear portion of the gas block chamber may be fluted to provide clearance for flushing out contaminants. The rod may rotate freely to prevent accumulation of contaminants. |
| US07832324B2 |
Fire mitigation
A method for protecting a structure or organism from the effects of fire caused by an explosion comprising covering at least a part of said structure or organism in a barrier comprising a water gel. |
| US07832322B1 |
Ambidextrous charging handle for a firearm
An ambidextrous charging handle for a firearm consists of two separate assemblies, these being an oblong handle that contains a latch mechanism and a central shaft member. The parts are joined together by a combination of the latch mechanism and alignment grooves in the central shaft member interacting with a locating flange on the handle, and a pair of retaining and pivoting connectors that secure the latch to the handle and the central shaft member. The latch mechanism includes cam activation via a retention relief cut acting against a fixed retention and pivot connector. The second point of retention for the assembly is via a second retaining connector that transmits the retraction force applied to the handle on one end of the latch and to the central shaft member through the interconnection of the second combination retention and pivot connector on the proximal end of the latch body. |
| US07832319B2 |
Blade clamp assembly
A blade clamp assembly for retaining a rotary blade on the arbor of a rotary tool includes a blade washer for engaging the blade to hold the blade on the arbor and a clamp assembly threaded into the arbor to clamp the blade washer against the blade. The clamp assembly includes a planetary gear system for transmitting torque applied to the clamp assembly to the blade washer, wherein the planetary gear system multiplies the torque transmitted to the blade washer so that the torque transmitted to the blade washer is greater than the torque applied to the clamp assembly. |
| US07832318B2 |
Paper sheet processing device
A paper sheet processing device for processing paper sheets while carrying the paper sheets, includes a device body, a carrier for carrying the paper sheets one by one, a carrier driver for driving the carrier, processing device parts which are installed in a carrying route and which process the paper sheets, and a processing driver for driving the processing device parts. The processing device parts are installed detachably from the device body. |
| US07832312B2 |
Composite phosphor powder, light emitting device using the same and method for manufacturing composite phosphor powder
The invention provides a high quality composite phosphor powder which ensures diversity in emission spectrum, color reproduction index, color temperature and color, a light emitting device using the same and a method for manufacturing the composite phosphor powder. The composite phosphor powder comprises composite particles. Each of the composite particles includes at least two types of phosphor particles and a light transmitting binder. The phosphor particles have different emission spectrums. In addition, the light transmitting binder is formed between the phosphor particles and binds them together. |
| US07832309B2 |
Door un-locking tool
A door unlocking tool capable of unlocking doors utilizing a lock requiring either a pushrod tip or a flathead tip for disengaging the lock mechanism through an aperture associated with the door knob. The door unlocking tool includes a flat elongated body that defines a first end and a second opposing end. The door unlocking tool also includes a first shaft extending from the first end of the flat elongated body. At the distal end of the first shaft is a pushrod tip. The door unlocking tool also includes a second shaft extending from the second end of the flat elongated body. The second shaft includes a distal end having a flathead tip. The flat elongated body includes an electrical component housing with an illumination device for use in the dark and in an emergency. |
| US07832306B2 |
Automatic transmission
A housing is constructed of a transmission case and an oil pan and has a space therein. A through hole passes through the transmission case. A pressure control unit is housed in the housing and controls hydraulic pressure supplied to a transmission mechanism by the operation of a solenoid valve. An internal cable is housed in the housing and is electrically connected to the solenoid valve of the pressure control unit. An external cable is electrically connected to an engine control unit outside the housing. A connector is arranged in such a way as to pass through the through hole and is electrically connected to the internal cable and the external cable. The connector has an external exposed portion, which is exposed outside the housing, formed in such a way as to be able to pass through the through hole. |
| US07832302B2 |
Shift-by-wire shifter with default to park
A shift-by-wire shifter system includes a spring biased DTP lever engageable with a shifter lever assembly to move the shifter lever assembly to a park position. A DTP lock assembly secures the DTP lever so that the shifter lever assembly is selectively movable along the shift path during normal operation and releases the DTP lever so that the DTP lever moves the shifter lever assembly to the park position upon the loss of system power. A DTP actuator unlocks the shifter lever assembly and the DPT lock assembly upon the loss of system power so that the DTP lever automatically moves the shifter lever assembly to the park position upon the loss of system power. A power storage device is provided to release power to the DPT actuator upon the loss of system power. |
| US07832300B2 |
Roller screw
There is provided a roller screw comprising a screw shaft 1 having an outer peripheral surface in which a spiral roller rolling groove 1a is formed, a nut member 2 having an inner peripheral surface in which a spiral loaded roller rolling groove 2a is formed so as to oppose to the roller rolling groove of the screw shaft, a return pipe 4 in which a roller return passage 5 is formed so as to connect one and another ends of a loaded roller rolling passage 3 between the roller rolling groove 1a of the screw shaft 1 and the loaded roller rolling groove 2a of the nut member 2, a number of rollers 6 disposed in the loaded roller rolling passage 3 and the roller return passage 5, wherein the roller return passage 5 is twisted so that an attitude of the roller 6 changes as the roller moves in an axial direction of the return pipe 4. Such roller screw enables to provide an easy assembling and compact structure and to realize smooth circulation of the roller. |
| US07832299B2 |
Gear-type transmission apparatus
A gear-type transmission apparatus includes a first input shaft, a second input shaft provided coaxially and rotatably relative to the first input shaft, a first counter shaft and a second counter shaft arranged in parallel to the first and the second input shafts, an output shaft, a dual clutch mechanism having a first clutch and a second clutch for transmitting a rotation of a driving shaft driven by a power source to the first and the second input shafts, a first gear change mechanism, a second gear change mechanism, a reverse gear set having a reverse shift stage driving gear, a reverse shift stage intermediate gear, and a reverse shift stage driven gear, and a switching clutch having a reverse shift stage engaging member for establishing/interrupting a torque transmission from the driving shaft to the output shaft via the reverse shift set. |
| US07832298B2 |
Countershaft clutch and gear assembly
A low inertia clutch and gear assembly for disposition on a countershaft of a dual clutch automatic transmission (DCT) includes a gear which is in constant mesh with a gear secured to the input shaft of the transmission and which is freely rotatably disposed on one of the countershafts or lay shafts. The lower inertia components of the clutch, i.e., the clutch hub and the smaller diameter friction plates are secured to the countershaft whereas the higher inertia components, i.e., the clutch housing, the larger diameter friction plates, the reaction plate, the piston and the return springs, rotate with the gear. |
| US07832297B2 |
Method and apparatus for gyroscopic propulsion
A propulsion system includes an engine and a rotating member rotatably engaging the engine. The rotating member comprises a plurality of drive members positioned around the circumference of the rotating member. Each of the drive members has an unlocked state in which the drive members apply substantially no torque to the rotating member, and a locked state, in which the drive members apply substantially a torque to the rotating member. At a selected time, a first set of the drive members are in the unlocked state and a second set of the drive members are in the locked state to provide a propulsive force. |
| US07832294B2 |
Measuring probe for measurements in metal or slag melts
A measuring probe is provided for measurements in metal or slag melts, the probe having a measuring head with an immersion end and a rear end, and having sensors arranged on the immersion end with signal lines. The sensors and signal lines are guided through the measuring head by channels, and a separate channel is provided for each sensor. A measuring probe is also provided for measurements in metal or slag melts, the probe having a measuring head with an immersion end and a rear end, having sensors arranged on the immersion end, and having lateral recesses arranged in front of the rear end. |
| US07832291B2 |
Simultaneous aspirator and dispenser for multiwell plates and similar devices
A method of making a measurement of binding affinity of a sample comprises the steps of: introducing the sample into a well having a bottom formed as a photonic crystal biosensor, wherein a portion of the sample becomes bound to the biosensor; making a measurement of the change in the shift in peak wavelength value as a function of time (kon) from the well as the sample is introduced into the well; simultaneously dispensing the sample to the well and aspirating the sample from the well and measuring the change in the shift in peak wavelength value as a function of time (koff) during the simultaneous dispensing and aspirating, and calculating an equilibrium association constant or an equilibrium dissociation constant for the sample from the values of kon and koff. |
| US07832288B2 |
Method for determining a force at the hub of a wheel of a vehicle while traveling and wheel suitable for allowing said method to be carried out
A method for determining the force at the hub of a wheel of a vehicle while traveling. The wheel includes a rim and at least one deformation sensor directly associated with the rim in at least one predetermined position and arranged according to at least one predetermined orientation. The method includes the steps of detecting at least one deformation component of the rim during travel through the at least one deformation sensor; applying to the at least one deformation component, during travel, a correlation parameter characteristic of the rim, between the force at the hub and the relative deformation of the rim to determine at least one force component at the hub correlated with the at least one deformation component of the rim. The determining of the correlation parameter preferably takes place through experimental tests that include the steps of providing a sample wheel having a rim substantially the same as that of the wheel and determining at least one correlation coefficient between at least one force component acting upon the sample wheel at the hub along at least one predetermined direction and at least one respective deformation component of the rim of the wheel. |
| US07832284B2 |
Load sensor and manufacturing method for the same
A detection element detects at least compression load. A first member has a surface provided with the detection element. A preload adjusting member has a tip end configured to apply pressure to the detection element. The first member and the second member are connected with each other and configured to transmit load to the detection element. The second member has a fitted portion, which has an inner circumferential periphery defining a thread groove, which is screwed with the preload adjusting member. The second member causes elastic deformation in response to adjustment of screwing of the preload adjusting member and causes change in preload applied to the detection element. A buffer member is interposed between the preload adjusting member and the detection element. |
| US07832273B2 |
Sensor device for vehicles
A sensor device includes an ultrasonic sensor and a sensor cover in the form of a foil, the ultrasonic sensor having an oscillatory sensor element, which is affixed inside a housing, having an end face, of the ultrasonic sensor, the ultrasonic sensor being able to be accommodated in a recess or bore hole of an external vehicle component, and the sensor element and the housing being able to be covered by the sensor cover on the outside, the sensor cover being mountable directly on the ultrasonic sensor and forming an at least essentially planar surface whose outline is adapted to the outline of the end face of the housing and coincides in an essentially flush manner with the end face of the housing of the ultrasonic sensor, and the sensor cover reflecting light having a color spectrum in the range of chrome color and a reflection capacity in the range of polished chrome. |
| US07832270B2 |
Apparatus for measuring rotational imbalance of a turbocharger core assembly
Apparatus for measuring rotational imbalance of a turbocharger core assembly, comprising a base frame (30) having a housing (31) in the form of an exhaust duct. Attached by leaf springs (33) to the housing (31) is a support part (35) and a co-axial adaptor (36) to which a turbocharger core assembly (38) is removably attached by quick-release clamps (37). An air inlet (40) receives air to drive the turbocharger core assembly via a volute within the adaptor (36), and any imbalance of the turbocharger core assembly, causing oscillatory vibration via the leaf springs (33) is measured by an accelerometer (40) mounted on the support part (35). |
| US07832267B2 |
Method for determining temporal solar irradiance values
A method for generating temporal solar irradiance values for a selected area. Binary format hillshade files are generated for selected azimuth and altitude points on the Sun's path for selected time points for the area. Data in the hillshade files is reclassified into reclassified files, on basis of the selected time points relative to the solar radiation data. The reclassified files are then summed to generate a set of normalized reclassified files, each representing a selected intermediate interval. The values for each corresponding one of the cells in the set of normalized reclassified files are summed to generate an irradiance-weighted shade file. The hillshade files are summed by inclusively OR-ing corresponding values for each of the cells in each of the hillshade files to generate respective composite files for each said selected intermediate interval. The composite files are then summed to generate a summed shade/time frequency file in which each data point therein represents the frequency of repetition of corresponding cells in the hillshade files over a selected upper interval of time. Each data point value in the irradiance-weighted shade file is then divided by the corresponding data point value in the frequency file to generate a file having solar access values for the upper interval, relative to the intermediate interval, for the selected area. |
| US07832266B1 |
Resin weathervane system
A resin weathervane having a weathervane tube mounted within a resin weathervane figurine with stabilizing support rods coupled to an upper portion of the weathervane tube and a belt of fiberglass material wrapped at least partially around the tube and the stabilizing support rods wherein a resin mixture poured into a mold forms a resin weathervane of a desired configuration with the resin bonding the tube, the stabilizing support rods and the fiberglass wrap. |
| US07832252B2 |
Precise droplet injection for calibrating a gas chromatography instrument
A method and apparatus for calibrating a gas chromatography instrument by forcefully shooting a measured droplet which securely passes through a confined passageway without direct intervention of human hands into the entry throat of the instrument so as to avoid contaminating the apparatus or impairing the accuracy of the instrument. |
| US07832249B2 |
Bi-can having internal bag
A can assembly includes a can body, and a cap that is seamed to the can body, and a bag. The bag, which may be formed by a thermoforming process, includes a thickened portion as part of a peripheral flange that terminates in a bulb. A throat that receives the bulb is formed by necks on the body and cap such that the bulb is spaced apart from the seam. A constriction formed by the neck radially inboard from the bulb receives the thickened portion of the bag. The process for forming the can assembly includes forming the seam and thermoforming a billet into the bag. At least part of the flange is formed between matched portions of mold flanges. |
| US07832247B2 |
Apparatus and method for manufacturing sprocket segment
Disclosed therein are an apparatus and method for manufacturing a sprocket segment, which can manufacture the sprocket segment through a simplified process including hot precision forging, through hardening and painting, thereby reducing manufacturing period and cost and securing competitive power. The sprocket segment manufacturing method includes: a primary hot forging process of putting a heated billet in a booster die (10) mounted on a forging press to perform a distribution of volume; a secondary hot forging process of putting the hot forged material (M) in a blocker die (11) to form a rib face (4); a tertiary hot forging process of putting the secondarily hot forged material (M) in a finisher die (12) to keep right angles and planes of a toothed face (6) and the rib face (4); and a process of putting the tertiarily hot forged material (M) in a product guide die (22) of a trimming-piercing-coining die (13) to eliminate a flash and form bolt holes (7) simultaneously. |
| US07832241B2 |
Device and method for aligning the input apparatusses and the channels in a rolling stand
A device for aligning the input apparatuses and the channels in a rolling stand is characterized in that it comprises: a measurement instrument (20) equipped with means (22, F, 23) for detecting the position of the surfaces of the channels (4), at least one electronic sensor (24) suitable for receiving such position detection and instrumentation for displaying the detection and its processing, and for providing the detected position. |
| US07832239B2 |
Lock apparatus for a glove box of a vehicle
A lock apparatus for locking a glove box that is rotatably coupled to an instrument panel of a vehicle. The lock apparatus includes an operating portion with a push-type knob, a pair of lock portions, and a transmitting portion with a transmitting member. The operating portion is located closer to a driver seat than a right and left center of the glove box in a right and left direction of a vehicle. The operating portion is coupled to the instrument panel between the instrument panel and the glove box. Each of the lock portions is located at each of right and left end portions of the glove box. The transmitting portion transmits a motion of the operating portion to each of the pair of lock portions using tension and/or compression of the transmitting member. |
| US07832236B2 |
Foam sensor of drum washing machine
A foam sensor of a drum washing machine is constructed such that a pair of temperature electrode terminals and a foam electrode terminal are supplied with electricity by a single connector, and thus is able to sense an electrical connection by a signal change of the temperature electrode terminals, in a case where electrical connection of the foam electrode terminal is cut off, thereby preventing a false sensing of foam generation caused by electrical short-circuiting of the foam electrode terminal. Furthermore, the foam electrode terminal is provided integral with the connector, and the temperature sensor portion has a thermistor for sensing a temperature of washing water and temperature electrode terminals inserted into the connector, the thermistor and the temperature electrode terminals being connected by a cord, which makes installation easier. |
| US07832232B2 |
Combination restrictor cartridge
A bi-directional flow control device utilizes a single moveable restrictor housed within a cartridge, the piston having a first position wherein the piston orifice provides a smallest diameter flow path through the cartridge, and a second position wherein a cartridge orifice provides a smallest diameter flow path through the cartridge. In one embodiment the device utilizes an anti-rattle mechanism for reducing rattle of the piston within the internal chamber of the cartridge. |
| US07832229B2 |
Integrated unit for refrigerant cycle device
In an integrated unit for a refrigerant cycle device, at least one evaporator is integrated with an ejector having a nozzle portion for decompressing refrigerant and a refrigerant suction port from which refrigerant is drawn. In the integrated unit, an insertion hole is provided in a longitudinal end surface of a tank of the evaporator such that the ejector is inserted from the insertion hole into the tank, and a plug for sealing the insertion hole is provided. Furthermore, a spacer is configured to have a gap between the plug and the ejector, and a fixing member is disposed between the longitudinal end surface of the tank and an expansion valve, for fixing the expansion valve to the longitudinal end surface of the tank. In the integrated unit, at least one of the fixing member, the plug, and the spacer is made of a resin material. |
| US07832226B2 |
Indoor unit of an air conditioner and method for manufacturing indoor unit of an air conditioner
An indoor unit of an air conditioner includes a front panel and a coating layer. A first panel and a second panel of the front panel are formed from a transparent material in which luminous grains are mixed. The coating layer exhibits a color scheme or a pattern, and is provided to a reverse side of the first panel and the second panel. |
| US07832223B2 |
Controller area network based climate control system for a self-propelled work machine and method of operation of the same
A controller area network based climate control system for a work machine, and a method of operation of the same, which advantageously and economically integrates into and utilizes the resources and capabilities of a CAN of a work machine, including, but not limited to, shared data from other systems of the machine, particularly engine data including engine operating speed and temperature, for controlling climate control system operation, as well as for troubleshooting and diagnosing problems. |
| US07832219B2 |
Ice making machine and method
An ice barrier and an ice making machine having an ice barrier is provided in some embodiments, wherein the ice barrier is movable between a first orientation in which liquid water from an ice-forming surface is directed into the liquid receptacle, and a second orientation in which the ice barrier blocks access of ice from the ice-forming surface to locations in which ice is trapped between the ice barrier and an adjacent surface. Also, a method of producing ice in an ice making machine is provided in some embodiments, wherein a barrier diverts a flow of liquid water received from the ice-forming surface away from an ice collection bin, and wherein the barrier is moved to an orientation in which the barrier diverts ice toward the ice collection bin and also blocks access of ice to positions trapped between the barrier and an adjacent surface. |
| US07832216B2 |
Apparatus for cooling
Apparatus for cooling a cooled equipment, comprising: a cryogen vessel (10) housing the cooled equipment; a gaseous cryogen filling the cryogen vessel; a refrigerator (12) having a cooling surface exposed to the interior of the cryogen vessel (10) so as to cool the gaseous cryogen; and a gas current generator arranged to cause circulation of the gaseous cryogen freely within the cryogen vessel, such that the gaseous cryogen is cooled by the refrigerator, and is warmed by heat from the cooled equipment, thereby cooling the cooled equipment. |
| US07832214B2 |
Air-conditioning device
An air-conditioning device includes a pump for sending a thermal medium, a thermoelectric conversion unit for absorbing heat from the thermal medium, a target setting unit for setting a target cooling value, and a controlling unit. The controlling unit increases a flow amount of the thermal medium to be larger than a predetermined amount and stops the thermoelectric conversion unit from absorbing heat, when the target cooling value is smaller than a predetermined value. The controlling unit increases a heat-absorbing amount of the element and keeps the flow amount of the thermal medium to be larger than the predetermined amount, when the target cooling value is equal to or larger than the predetermined value. |
| US07832213B2 |
Operating method for a turbogroup
A method for operating a turbogroup, especially of a power generating plant, is provided. The turbogroup includes a compressor for compressing combustion air, a combustion chamber with at least one burner for producing a hot gas, and a turbine for expanding the hot gas, performing work. The method includes feeding combustion air to a compressor, where it is compressed, and fed to at least one burner and feeding a fuel to the at least one burner. The method also includes injecting water into the combustion air upstream of the burner where it is evaporated, mixing the fuel in the burner with the combustion air-water vapor mixture, combusting the fuel-combustion air-water vapor mixture in the combustion chamber, and feeding the hot gas which is produced in the combustion chamber to the turbine where it is expanded and performs work. |
| US07832211B2 |
Gas turbine combustor and a gas turbine equipped therewith
In order to realize a stable decrease in NOx, a gas turbine combustor is supplied which can reduce combustion vibration. A combustor (3) is provided with a first box body (30), which is installed outside an object body (20) such as a combustor basket (6), a transition piece (7) or a bypass duct (11) so as to form a first internal space (31) having a predetermined capacity; and a first throat (32) having a predetermined length which has one end (32a) open to a side wall (20a) of the object body (20) and has the other end (32b) open to a first internal space (31); wherein, a first resistive element (33) having a multiple number of through-holes is inserted and engaged to one end (32a). Fluid particles serving as vibration elements of combustion vibration caused in a combustion region are effectively trapped by the first resistive element (33) and at the same time resonate with the air of the first internal space (31) being connected through the first throat (32) and vibrate in the neighborhood of the first resistive element (33), thereby damping vibration amplitude thereof. |
| US07832210B2 |
System for controlling and optimizing the emission of a catalytic combustor in a single-shaft gas turbine
System for controlling and optimizing the emissions of a catalytic combustor in a single-shaft gas turbine (10), comprising at least one calculation unit for implementing a mathematical model of the operation of the said gas turbine (10), on the basis of a set of predetermined parameters, by means of which the aforesaid emissions can be optimized during variations of the operating conditions of the turbine over a range of external environmental conditions from approximately −29° C. to +49° C. |
| US07832201B2 |
Method for regeneration a nitrogen oxide storage catalyst
To remove the nitrogen oxides from the exhaust gas from lean-burn engines, these engines are equipped with a nitrogen oxide storage catalyst, which has to be regenerated frequently by the engine being briefly switched to rich-burn mode. The regeneration is usually initiated when the nitrogen oxide concentration downstream of the catalyst rises above a permissible value. In this context, there is a risk of the bed temperature of the catalyst during and after regeneration being pushed into a range with incipient thermal desorption of the nitrogen oxides on account of the heat which is released during the conversion of the nitrogen oxides by the reducing constituents of the exhaust gas. This can lead to increased nitrogen oxide emission both during the regeneration itself and after the engine has been switched back to lean-burn mode. To eliminate this problem, it is proposed to divide the rich-burn mode into two rich pulses which follow one another in time, the first rich pulse being of shorter duration than the second rich pulse. |
| US07832200B2 |
Exhaust system implementing feedforward and feedback control
An exhaust system for use with a combustion engine is disclosed. The exhaust system may have an exhaust passageway, and a reduction catalyst disposed within the exhaust passageway. The exhaust system may also have a first sensor located to generate a first signal indicative of an operational parameter of the reduction catalyst, and a second sensor located to generate a second signal indicative of a performance parameter of the reduction catalyst. The exhaust system may further have an injection device located to inject reductant upstream of the reduction catalyst, and a controller in communication with the combustion engine, the first sensor, the second sensor, and the injection device. The controller may be configured to determine a NOX production of the combustion engine, determine an amount of reductant that should be injected based on the NOX production and the first signal, and adjust the amount based on the second signal. |
| US07832198B2 |
System and method for controlling an operating temperature of a catalyst of a vehicle exhaust system
If a demanded power exceeds a predetermined threshold, where the threshold is based on a catalyst temperature, power from a power storage unit is supplied to a wheel. |
| US07832197B2 |
System and method for reducing NOx emissions in an apparatus having a diesel engine
A method for a diesel engine includes retarding intake valve timing and advancing exhaust valve timing based on reduced exhaust gas that enters an aftertreatment device. In this way, it is possible to increase the internal exhaust gas recirculation and the temperature of exhaust emitted by the diesel engine. |
| US07832194B2 |
Device for restraining the deterioration of a catalytic apparatus of an internal combustion engine
In a device for restraining the deterioration of a catalytic apparatus of an internal combustion engine of the present invention, when the temperature of the catalytic apparatus arranged in the engine exhaust system is higher than a predetermined temperature in a vehicle deceleration, a fuel-cut of the engine is prohibited and a first motor-generator MG2 connected with the vehicle drive shaft 6 is operated as a generator to charge an electrical accumulator 8. |
| US07832191B2 |
Integrated gasification combined cycle and the control method
A gasification unit provided with a gasification furnace 23 to produce fuel gas production is provided. A combined power generation unit 25 which generates power by rotating a gas turbine and a steam turbine using fuel gas produced in the gasification unit is provided. The combined power generation unit 25 is made operable while fuel change over between fuel gas and an auxiliary fuel as the fuel. A control system is provided in which the degree of opening of a control valve 37 for a flare stack 28 provided in a fuel gas feed line is controlled depending upon the pressure of the fuel gas from the gasification unit when fuel change over from the fuel gas to the auxiliary fuel so as to allow the fuel gas supplied to the combined power generation unit 25 to gradually flare from a flare stack 28 until a flared status that total amount of the fuel gas is reached. |
| US07832190B2 |
Characterization of fancy yarn
According to the method for characterizing fancy yarn, at least one characteristic of the fancy yarn is scanned along the longitudinal direction of the fancy yarn. Values of the scanning are evaluated and the results of the evaluation are outputted. The results of the evaluation are the fancy yarn parameters such as base yarn mass, base yarn diameter, slub distance, mass increase of a slub, slub diameter increase, slub diameter, slub length and/or slub total mass. On evaluation, a measurement curve is produced from the values of the scanning, and an area (A(x)) between the measurement curve and a previously determined base yarn mass is computed. A permanent increase in the course of the area (A(x)) is used as a criterion for the presence of a slub. Slubs may be differentiated from yarn imperfections in a reliable manner by way of the area (A(x)). |
| US07832188B2 |
Apparatus and method for sealing a lidstock to a container
The invention relates to a method for heat sealing a lidstock (9) to a container (1) for a blister package, the container having a top surface comprising a substantially flat sealing flange (3) surrounding a blister (2) and a lip (4) having at least one raised surface (6), the method comprising the steps of a) locating the lidstock on the top surface; b) providing a first seal between the lidstock and the at least one raised surface of the lip with a first heat sealing tool (11); c) providing a second hermetic seal between the lidstock and the sealing flange surrounding the blister with a second heat sealing tool. The invention also relates to a package for storing a hydrophilic contact lens comprising a lip having at least one raised surface and a removable lidstock sealed to a sealing flange and to the at least one raised surface. Also disclosed is an apparatus for heat sealing the lidstock to the container. |
| US07832184B2 |
Container, additive chamber, and method for filling a container
A container has a product chamber for containing a product. The product chamber has a product opening that opens into the exterior. A closure member is releasably mounted on the product opening. The container further includes an additive chamber for containing an additive, and a pressure valve that connects the additive chamber and the product chamber with each other. The pressure valve has a closed position when the pressure inside the product chamber is higher than the pressure inside the additive chamber, and an open position for discharging additive from the additive chamber into the product chamber when the pressure inside the product chamber is lower than the pressure inside the additive chamber. The pressure inside the product chamber is higher than the ambient pressure and the pressure inside the additive chamber is both lower than the pressure inside the product chamber and higher than the ambient pressure. |
| US07832183B2 |
Packaging machine with pivoting minor flap retainer
A packaging apparatus in an automated packaging process, for sealing a carton having minor flaps and a bottom end flap, comprising: means for holding the minor flaps in a closed position; and a cycle stop compression plate for, upon the occurrence of a cycle stop operation, folding the bottom end flap over the minor flaps and holding the bottom end flap in place until the carton is sealed. |
| US07832181B2 |
Detection system
A foil lid inspection system for detecting and separating defective foil lids on a container in a production line includes one or more light sources, an inspection camera, and inspection software. The light sources are positioned to direct light in an upward direction to illuminate the container. The inspection camera is positioned above the foil lid, and the camera includes one or more outputs. The inspection software is in communication with the inspection camera. The inspection software is constructed and arranged to determine if the foil lid on the container is defective. A reject signal is applied to an output if the software determines that the foil lid is defective. |
| US07832180B2 |
Joining structure
A joining structure, having a sleeve having a first end, a second end, and at least first side; at least one spacer; wherein the sleeve connects a first mullion from the first end of the sleeve and connects a second mullion from the second end of the sleeve; wherein the sleeve extends longitudinally within the first and the second mullions; wherein the at least one spacer extends longitudinally along the length of the at least first side of the sleeve and is situated between an external surface of the at least first side of the sleeve and an internal surface of at least first wall of the first mullion and an internal surface of at least first wall of the second mullion; and wherein the at least one spacer prevents direct mating between the at least first side of the sleeve and the at least first wall of the first mullion and the at least first wall of the second mullion. |
| US07832177B2 |
Insulated glazing units
A hermetically sealed multi-pane window assembly comprises first and second windowpane sheets formed of transparent materials. A first sealing member has an inner edge and an outer edge, the inner edge being hermetically attached around the periphery of the first windowpane sheet by diffusion bonding. A second sealing member has an inner edge and an outer edge, the inner edge being hermetically attached around the periphery of the second windowpane sheet by diffusion bonding and the outer edge being hermetically attached to the outer edge of the first sealing member. A spacer assembly is disposed between the first and the second windowpane sheets for maintaining a gap therebetween, whereby a hermetically sealed cavity is defined between the first and the second windowpanes. |
| US07832172B2 |
Grating system with enhanced see-through characteristics
A grating system provides enhanced see through characteristics and typically includes longitudinal deep bars, axial crossbars, axial filler bars between the crossbars and longitudinal joining bars which join the crossbars and filler bars to one another. The deep bars are part of a first subassembly and the other bars are part of a second subassembly which may be lowered to join the two subassemblies to one another. The crossbars and filler bars are seated on the deep bars with the crossbars typically within upwardly opening notches formed in the deep bars. The joining bars are typically above and aligned with the deep bars. The upper surfaces of the crossbars and filler bars are usually substantially flush with one another. The grating system is configured to support vehicular and pedestrian traffic. |
| US07832170B2 |
Expandable and collapsible structures including split scissor assembly
An expandable and collapsible structure and an expandable and collapsible scissor assembly and module therefor are provided. The scissor assembly includes a first strut having a first end and a second end. The scissor assembly also includes a second strut upper portion having a first end and a second end, the first end of the second strut upper portion being pivotably connected to the first strut at an upper strut connection point, and a second strut lower portion having a first end and a second end, the second end of the second strut lower portion being pivotably connected to the first strut at a lower strut connection point. The lower strut connection point is between the upper strut connection point and the first end of the first strut and the scissor assembly is movable between a folded position in which the first end of the first strut and the second end of the second strut upper portion are substantially adjacent and the second end of the first strut and the first end of the second strut lower portion are substantially adjacent, and an expanded position. |
| US07832168B2 |
Grid tee for suspension ceiling
In one embodiment, a roll-formed sheet metal tee for grid type suspended ceilings with the face of its flange integral with the stem and the layers of the stem fixed together for improved torsional strength. An upper region of the stem can have one or more of its layers folded to increase suspension wire breakout strength. A stiffening bulb is below suspension wire receiving holes so that a loop of the suspension wire through the tee has a narrow profile and thereby avoids interference with ceiling panels during their installation or removal. Other embodiments of a tee share the feature of a narrow, suspension wire receiving upper stem portion. |
| US07832167B2 |
Door and window system with stiffeners
A door and window system comprising a door, a window, a bracket, and a retainer. The door has a portal, and the window is adapted to fit within the portal. The window having a first face and a second face. The bracket has a first window support, and the retainer has a second window support. The first window support includes a surface upon which the first face of the window is supported, and the second window support includes a surface upon which the second face of the window is supported. The door includes first and second outer skins. |
| US07832165B2 |
Pocket assemblies for sports flooring sub-floor systems
A subfloor assembly for supporting a floor on a substrate includes a plurality of lower subfloor panels and a plurality of upper subfloor panels. The lower subfloor panels are resiliently disposed over the substrate while the upper subfloor panels are disposed over the lower subfloor panels. Each of the upper subfloor panels has at least one pocket and the pocket is disposed over a void that is provided between adjacent lower subfloor panels. An anchor is positioned in each pocket and is attached to the substrate. The anchor also engages a surface of a shoulder of at least one of the lower subfloor panels that is exposed under the pocket to thereby limit resilient upward movement of the subfloor assembly. |
| US07832163B2 |
Screed rail
A boundary screed rail assembly with screed rails (14) supported by feet members (42). The screed rails (14) providing a perimeter part (24) with upper and lower protection parts (26). The upper part (26) provides a planar horizontal surface (28), with a plurality of recesses (30) extending thereinto, alternating with downwardly extending engagement members (32) engageable in the concrete of a slab. |
| US07832162B1 |
Corner wall structure to prevent corner damage
A corner drift connector for preventing damage to exterior walls of buildings during wind, earthquake, or other building-deforming events is described. The corner drift connector is slidably attached to each of two angled walls which form a corner of a building. Slots in flanges of the corner drift connector facilitate utilizing connectors to attach the corner drift connector to the walls while allowing relative motion between the walls and the connector. A cover placed outside the corner drift connector conceals the connector and its intersections with the walls. |
| US07832161B2 |
Corner joint element for bevel-edge tiles
A corner joint element for bevel-edge tiles, comprising a first in-view surface (2) and a second in-view surface (8) which are incident to one another and reciprocally inclined by a predetermined angle, in which the first in-view surface (2) exhibits a first corner (3), defined by a union of two consecutive edges (5, 6), and a second corner (4), defined by a union of two consecutive edges (6, 7). Each corner exhibits at least a tract (5a, 6a, 6b, 7a), arranged in proximity of a respective corner (3, 4) of the corners, which is downwards-inclined with respect to the first in-view surface (2) on a perpendicular plane to the first in-view surface (2). |
| US07832160B2 |
Seismic safe and fire resistant rated edge attached stopless glazing
Forming a fenestration unit which may have seismic safe properties and/or fire resistance rated properties for use in buildings and other structures includes edge attaching a panel of any applicable material, in a continuous fashion, to a supporting mullion by means of a bridging element that withstands and transfers stresses to the supporting mullion. Single or multiple insert parts may be attached to the bridging element and may be integrally embedded between multiple sheets composing the panel, or attached respectively in single or multiple grooves at the edge of the panel. The panel may be composed of multiple laminated sheets. A laminating interlayer between the sheets will hold the sheets together as one sheet. The interlayer can be a liquid that may cure to a rigid material. Alternatively, the interlayer may be provided between the multiple sheets and the assembly may be heated and pressed multiple times. |
| US07832157B2 |
Mounting system for a solar panel
An integrated module frame and racking system for a solar panel is disclosed. The solar panel comprises a plurality of solar modules and a plurality of splices for coupling the plurality of solar modules together. The plurality of splices provide a way to make the connected modules mechanically rigid both during transport to the roof and after mounting for the lifetime of the system, provide wiring connections between modules, provide an electrical grounding path for the modules, provide a way to add modules to the panel, and provide a way to remove or change a defective module. Connector sockets are provided on the sides of the modules to simplify the electrical assembly of modules when the modules are connected together with splices. |
| US07832155B1 |
Drop floor construction and method for park model home
A drop floor for a mobile home or a park model home creates additional space and headroom between the ceiling and floor. A home built according to the invention typically includes a frame supported upon an axle. The frame has numerous cross members extending between a pair of opposite side members and includes a first portion located at a first height with respect to the axle and a second portion located at a second height below the first height. A building structure is supported on the first and second frame portions. The invention includes a drop floor construction method where floor decking is attached to the second portion of the frame so that the floor decking is in contact with the frame and located at the second height, which is below the first height. The drop floor includes nailers, closure material and insulation so that the drop floor can rest upon the ground surface if desired. |
| US07832151B2 |
Prefabricated building structure with collapsible roof sections
A prefabricated building structure having a collapsible roof and adapted to be transported by a road carrier vehicle is described. The prefabricated building structure is provided with at least opposed parallel load bearing side walls. A roof section having a plurality of spaced roof rafters is pivotally connected by one or more pivot connections to a respective one of a top plate of each of the load bearing side walls. The roof sections are interconnectable to one another when the roof sections are disposed angularly upwards to form a raised pitch roof structure. A leverage beam is connectable to one of the rafters of each roof section and is securable to a cable which is secured to a pulley whereby to permit the roof sections to be raised or lowered. |
| US07832145B2 |
Plant-cultivating device and plant-cultivating method
A device having a shape capable of receiving the plant body to be cultivated. As at least a portion of the device, a film which can substantially be integrated with the root of the plant body is disposed. Such a structure can provide a plant-cultivating device, a plant-film integrate, and a plant-cultivating method which can preferably attain both of the supply of oxygen and the supply of water and a fertilizer component to the root of the plant body. |
| US07832143B2 |
High throughput methods for sampling seeds
A high-throughput method is provided for analyzing individual seeds in a population of seeds. The method generally includes removing a tissue sample from at least one or more seeds in the population of seeds while preserving germination viability of the at least one or more seeds from which the tissue sample is taken, depositing the tissue sample into an individual compartment of a sample tray, contacting the tissue sample with an extraction buffer to remove DNA from the sample, and analyzing the extracted DNA for the presence or absence of a transgene of interest. The extraction buffer may be present in the individual compartment of the sample tray before the tissue sample is deposited into the individual compartment. |
| US07832141B2 |
Flower supporting device
A flower supporting device. A plurality of rotatable beads are connected by connection means having elasticity so that a support body is formed. A plurality of support bodies are arranged to be staggered up and down with each other so that a stem of a flower can be inserted between adjoining supporting bodies to be supported by them. |
| US07832139B1 |
Slip line apparatus for fishing float
A slip clip line apparatus designed for use with fishing floats and sinkers to aid in their attachment to a fishing line. The slip clip has a slip body which engages the fishing line and allows the slip clip to slide freely along a predetermined length of fishing line. The slip body is a U-shaped apparatus having an open and centrally located line slip which is substantially closed. The slip clip further has a lower insertion body which may be connected to a piece of tubing that in turn may be connected to a float or a sinker. |
| US07832137B2 |
Apparatus and method for calculating aiming point information
The present invention relates to target acquisition and related devices, and more particularly to telescopic gunsights and associated equipment used to achieve shooting accuracy at, for example, close ranges, medium ranges and extreme ranges at stationary and moving targets. |
| US07832136B2 |
Safety devices for firearms
Firearm safety devices are described that enable the safe operation, training, storage, display, and transportation of firearms. The firearm safety devices, referred to herein as “safety casing” devices, are configured for easy insertion and removal from a firearm without risk of damage to the firearm. The safety casing devices clearly indicate to those handling and observing the host firearm that the firearm chamber is free or devoid of a live round and thus safe because the firearm cannot be fired. The safety casing devices permit the firearm to be used in training exercises, including dry fire practice, while preventing accidental discharge. |
| US07832134B2 |
Underwater gun comprising a turbine-based barrel seal
An apparatus and method for sealing the barrel of an underwater gun between firings is disclosed. The apparatus comprises a turbine that is disposed at the outlet of the muzzle of the gun. The turbine draws in water and, in various embodiments, either (a) vaporizes it, forming a vapor barrier along the spin axis that keeps water out of the barrel, (b) expels it radially, thereby re-directing it so that it does not enter the barrel, or (c) generates water jets that prevent water from entering the barrel. |
| US07832132B2 |
Sign device
A sign device comprises a unitary body which is fully enclosed across a top and sides of a hollow interior so as to be weatherproof. A display supported within the hollow interior is arranged to display alpha-numeric information through a translucent display portion on the front wall of the unitary body in an active state and is arranged to be not externally visible through the display portion in an inactive state. The exterior surface is textured and arranged to resemble a natural rock to further disguise the inactive display. An indicator indicates on the rear wall which one of various modes is being displayed on the front wall by the active display. The display can display an alarm condition, for example a building alarm responsive to a fire or an unauthorized entry into a building or a personal remote alarm activated by a building occupant requiring assistance. |
| US07832130B2 |
Multiple mounting bracket for a mobile processor attachment mounted on a hydraulic excavator
A mounting bracket is designed to interchangeably connect a processor attachment to the stick of a larger excavator or the boom of a smaller excavator in place of the stick. The mounting bracket includes mounting assemblies that are designed to operatively attach the bracket to the stick and related bucket cylinder linkage assembly of a larger excavator. The mounting bracket also includes mounting assemblies that are designed to operatively attach the bracket to the boom and related stick cylinder of a smaller excavator. The mounting bracket may avoid the need to obtain and maintain plural mounting brackets for different mounting applications (e.g., stick or boom). |
| US07832129B2 |
Releasable coupling assembly
A lock that includes a wedge that is used to releasably secure separable components of an assembly together. The wedge can be used with a spool. The wedge and spool are threadedly coupled together to drive the wedge into and out of an opening in the assembly without hammering or prying. The direct coupling of the wedge and spool eliminates the need for bolts, washers, nuts and other hardware so as to minimize the number of parts. As a result, the lock is inexpensive to make, easy to use, and unlikely to become inoperative because of lost or broken parts or due to fines or other difficulties encountered in harsh digging environments. Further, the wedge can be driven into the assembly to provide the degree of tightness necessary for the intended operation and/or to re-tighten the assembly after incurring wear during use. A latch assembly is preferably provided to securely hold the wedge in place and avoid an undesired loss of parts during use. |
| US07832127B2 |
Apparatus for attaching a work tool to a loader
A restraint apparatus limits pivotal movement of an attachment receiver which is pivotably coupled to movable first and second arms of a loader. The attachment receiver is configured to be coupled to a mounting frame of a work tool. The restraint apparatus includes an attachment member configured to be coupled to one of the first and second arms of the loader, a side plate coupled to the attachment member, and a blocking member coupled to the side plate. The blocking member is configured to engage the mounting frame of the work tool to block pivotal movement of the attachment receiver and the mounting frame relative to the first and second arms. |
| US07832126B2 |
Systems, devices, and/or methods regarding excavating
Certain exemplary embodiments can provide a system, which can comprise a bucket excavation controller. The bucket excavation controller can be adapted to control one or more digging functions of a mining excavator. For example, the bucket excavation controller can be adapted to automatically control a crowd motion of the mining excavator. |
| US07832125B1 |
Plant transplanting apparatus
A plant transplanting apparatus includes a pair of hand spade assemblies each having a post with a top end and a bottom end and a blade that has a top edge and a bottom edge. The top edge is attached to the bottom end of the post and a grip is attached to the top end of the post. A coupling assembly releasably couples the hand spade assemblies together. The coupling assembly engages the posts to allow the first sides of the blades to be pivoted toward or away from each other. The coupling assembly is adjustable to allow a space between the spade assemblies to be selectively adjusted. The blades are extended into soil on either side of a plant and the blades are pivoted toward each other to lift the plant from the soil to allow the plant to be transplanted. |
| US07832123B2 |
Team shoe set with differing upper characteristics
A set of shoes for use by members of a team. The shoes allow for a uniform appearance in a team environment by way of substantially similar uppers, while providing individualized performance specifications, with respect to support and breathability, for each upper. The substantially similar appearance of the upper may be due to material overlays, stitch patterns, color scheme and/or perforations and may be based on team criteria. The uppers are materially different from each other due to internal or external supports, material types and/or breathability. The substantially similar upper provides a uniform appearance for the team. The individualized performance specifications of each upper provide the comfort, performance and/or safety preferences desired by each player. |
| US07832116B2 |
System and method for making footwear with injected color
A footwear piece with two or more injected colors is disclosed. The footwear is made by injecting raw materials of two or more different colors into a mold and causing the different colors to spread randomly throughout the base section of the footwear. |
| US07832114B2 |
Tracker holder assembly
Provided herein are devices and methods for mounting variously configured medical imaging probes to a tracker assembly for imaging applications. In one aspect, a tracker assembly provides multiple degrees of freedom for positioning a probe relative to a patient and/or maintaining a probe in a desired location for imaging purposes. The tracker generates location information that may be utilized as frame of reference information for acquired images. In another aspect a holding device allows for interfacing/holding differently configured probes in a common orientation to a predetermined frame of reference. |
| US07832113B1 |
Collapsible level and utility device
The present invention resides in a collapsible level comprising a first segment; at least one additional segment, physically independent of the first segment and operable with the first segment to form the level; a leveling vial supported in at least one of the segments; and a linking member operable with the segments to permit the segments to be assembled and to secure an assembled relationship between the segments, as well as to maintain a connection between the segments when disassembled. In an alternative embodiment, the linking member is removed and the segments link together magnetically. The present invention further provides means for longitudinally extending the length of the collapsible level, thereby providing the collapsible level with the ability to level a wide range of shaped and sized surfaces. The present invention further resides in an accessory device operable with a level to enhance the functionality of the level, the accessory device comprising: a housing; and means for attaching the housing to the level in both a removable and slidable manner. |
| US07832108B2 |
Pencil sharpener cap
A pencil sharpener includes a housing having an inner cavity for receiving at least a portion of a pencil therein. The pencil includes a center portion and an outer portion generally coaxial with the center portion. A sharpener is longitudinally slidable within the inner cavity. A mechanism provides a linear force to the sharpener to move the sharpener between open and closed ends of the housing. The linear force mechanism is disposed between the sharpener and the closed end of the housing. The engagement of the pencil and housing during sharpening of the pencil produces shavings from the center and outer portions of the pencil that are retained within the inner cavity. A combined longitudinal length of the housing and pencil in an engaged configuration remains approximately constant as the pencil decreases in length from use and/or sharpening. |
| US07832104B2 |
Hair removing apparatus
The invention provides a hair removing apparatus having a body hair treatment head removing a body hair by shaving the body hair, depilating the body hair or cutting the body hair, and a main body grip held by a hand, and in which the body hair treatment head being rotatably coupled to the main body grip in such a manner that the body hair treatment head is freely oscillated with respect to the main body grip. In this structure, the hair removing apparatus is provided with a weight applying means for applying a force opposing to a force by which the body hair treatment head is oscillated by its own weight of the body hair treatment head around a center of rotation of the body hair treatment head. |
| US07832101B2 |
Method and assembly for mounting rotor blade bearings of a wind turbine
A method and an assembly for fastening at least one screw nut to be tightened of a rotor blade bearing of a wind turbine are provided. A screw nut driver assembly is provided at a rotatable portion of the rotor blade bearing, the screw nut driver assembly being adapted to automatically tighten the at least one screw nut. The screw nut driver assembly is aligned with the screw nut to be tightened by rotating the rotatable portion with a pitch drive of the wind turbine. Then the screw nut is tightened using the screw nut driver assembly. |
| US07832099B2 |
Method of manufacturing a wiring material
A wiring material is provided by electrically connecting a connecting terminal with two single line conductors arranged in parallel. The connecting terminal is provided with a tube-shaped section for storing two single line conductors, the two single line conductors are inserted into the tube-shaped section, resistance welding is performed by carrying electricity from the external of the tube-shaped section in a status where the tube-shaped section and the single line conductors are mutually brought into contact, and the connecting terminal is electrically connected with the two single line conductors. |
| US07832098B2 |
Method of manufacturing a multilayered printed circuit board
An opening is formed in resin 20 by a laser beam so that a via hole is formed. At this time, copper foil 22, the thickness of which is reduced (to 3 μm) by performing etching to lower the thermal conductivity is used as a conformal mask. Therefore, an opening 20a can be formed in the resin 20 if the number of irradiation of pulse-shape laser beam is reduced. Therefore, occurrence of undercut of the resin 20 which forms an interlayer insulating resin layer can be prevented. Thus, the reliability of the connection of the via holes can be improved. |
| US07832094B2 |
Method of operatively combining a plurality of components to form a land grip array interposer (LGA) structure utilizing metal-on-elastomer hemi-torus and other multiple points of contact geometries
A method of operatively combining a plurality of components to form 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. |
| US07832093B2 |
Method of creating an electro-mechanical energy conversion device
There are provided methods for creating energy conversion devices based on the giant flexoelectric effect in non-calamitic liquid crystals. By preparing a substance comprising at least one type of non-calamitic liquid crystal molecules and stabilizing the substance to form a mechanically flexible material, flexible conductive electrodes may be applied to the material to create an electro-mechanical energy conversion device which relies on the giant flexoelectric effect to produce electrical and/or mechanical energy that is usable in such applications as, for example, power sources, energy dissipation, sensors/transducers, and actuators. |
| US07832092B2 |
Method of manufacturing a printed wiring board lead frame package
A printed wiring board includes a plurality of conductor plates that includes at least one conductor plate that is used as a lead for electrical connection with an external circuit, the conductor plates being separated spatially from one another; an insulating layer formed on or across the conductor plates or both on and across the conductor plates; and a plurality of wiring patterns formed on the insulating layer. At least one of the conductor plates is electrically connected with at least one of the wiring patterns through a via-hole. |
| US07832090B1 |
Method of making a planar electrode
Chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) of thin film materials using a slurry including a surfactant chemical operative to polish high portions of the film being planarized while preventing the polishing of low portions of the film is disclosed. The low portions can be in a step reduction region of a deposited film. The CMP process can be used for form a planar surface upon which subsequent thin-film layers can be deposited, such as an electrically conductive material for an electrode. The subsequently deposited thin-film layers are substantially planar as deposited without having to use CMP. The resulting thin-film layers are planar and have a uniform cross-sectional thickness that can be beneficial for layers of memory material for a memory cell. The processing can be performed back-end-of-the-line (BEOL) on a previously front-end-of-the-line (FEOL) processed substrate (e.g., silicon wafer) and the BEOL process can be used to fabricate two-terminal non-volatile cross-point memory arrays. |
| US07832089B2 |
Method for making an insulated microwire
Insulated electrically conductive fibers or microwires of sizes on the order of 1 mil (25 microns) diameter, so as to be suitable for processing into yarns or multi-microwire bundles, for example, for incorporation into conformable fabric products or for use as wearable electronic circuitry are made by coprocessing a core of a lower-melting-point metal within a sheath of a higher-melting-point polymer. |
| US07832086B2 |
Alignment jig, manufacturing method thereof, and method of manufacturing liquid-jet head unit
An alignment jig including: a base jig which is used when aligning and bonding a nozzle plate which is provided with nozzle orifices ejecting liquid of a liquid-jet head with/to a fixing member holding a nozzle plate side of the plurality of liquid-jet heads, and which is provided with an optical system on a bottom plane thereof; a mask having transparency, one plane of which is bonded to a plane of the base jig opposite to the optical system, and the other plane of which is provided with a reference mark for being aligned with an alignment mark provided for the nozzle plate; and a spacer jig which is bonded to a plane of the mask where the reference mark of the mask is provided, and which holds the fixing member. |
| US07832082B1 |
Method for manufacturing an integrated lead suspension component
A method for manufacturing an integrated lead suspension component. One or more first conductive ground planes are formed on a stainless steel base layer. One or more second conductive ground planes, including portions on the surface of the first conductive ground planes, are formed at void portions and backed portions of the stainless steel base layer. The material of the second conductive ground planes is non-reactive to a first etchant. An insulating layer is formed on the second ground planes on the side opposite the stainless steel base layer and on the stainless steel base layer. Traces are formed on the insulating layer. Voids are formed in void portions of the stainless steel base layer using the first etchant and the second conductive ground planes at the void portions as etch stops. |
| US07832076B2 |
Method for a watertight connection in a water service
An improved seal and method for providing a watertight compression joint connection between a valve or fitting and a flare end of a copper tubing in a water service. The improvement includes an O-ring seal on a bull nose end of a valve and a frictional material inserted into straight AWWA threads on a male inlet or outlet of the valve to sealingly engage a flared end of the copper tubing to the bull nose end and to frictionally engage a flare nut with the tubing back onto the matching bull nose end of the valve when screwing the flare nut onto the male threads of the valve, respectively. |
| US07832074B2 |
Method for installation of blind rivets
Method and apparatus is provided for monitoring the installation of a blind rivet to attach together top and bottom members. The blind rivet installation tool includes a housing having an anvil seated on the rivet head. A collet is reciprocable within the tool housing and carries jaws for gripping the mandrel of the blind rivet. Retraction of the jaws by the collet displaces the jaws and the mandrel axially and causes the mandrel head to axially collapse and radially expand the hollow shank of the blind rivet into engagement with the bottom member so that the rivet attaches the top member and the bottom member. A cut off tool is actuated by an actuator to cut off the mandrel flush with the rivet head. Transducers and a process controller monitor the installation process and actuate the cut off blade upon determining that the blind rivet is properly installed. |
| US07832073B2 |
Steering knuckle boring method
An apparatus for repairing steering knuckle (kingpin) bearings includes a table having multiple, adjustable slides for receiving and securing the steering knuckle to the table, a boring bar and cutter, two adjustable bearing supports for receiving and positioning the boring bar along an axis coincident with the axis of the kingpin bearings, a first drive assembly for advancing the boring bar and a second drive assembly for rotating the boring bar. A method of repairing a steering knuckle comprises securing the knuckle to the slides and the slides to the table, utilizing cylindrical centering rings to align the boring bar with the axis of the kingpin bearings, supporting and securing the boring bar on the previously established axis in a pair of bearing supports and rotating and feeding the boring bar and cutter to create new surfaces in the steering knuckle adapted to receive bearing sleeves. Upon installation of both bearing sleeves, the boring bar and drive unit are reinstalled and the inside diameter of the sleeve is bored to the proper size to receive the kingpin. |
| US07832072B2 |
Method of retrofitting a circular saw
Provided is an apparatus for lifting a retractable lower safety-guard on a circular saw. In one representative implementation, an actuator is attached to the circular saw and an elongated arm is coupled to the actuator such that operating the actuator causes the elongated arm to lift. In addition, an engagement element is attached to the retractable lower safety-guard of the circular saw. When lifted, the elongated arm engages the engagement element, thereby retracting the retractable lower safety-guard of the circular saw. Preferably, the actuator is configured, and is located sufficiently close to a power switch for the circular saw, so that the actuator can be operated simultaneously with the power switch using a single hand. Also provided are retrofitting techniques for attaching such a device to an existing circular saw. |
| US07832068B2 |
Method of producing a spread multi-filament bundle and an apparatus used in the same
A method of producing a spread multi-filament bundle along with an apparatus used in the same, by which a multi-filament bundle is spread with high speed and facility, and a high quality spread multi-filament bundle or sheet with the component monofilaments thereof aligned in parallel widthwise and uniformly distributed in density is produced. The multi-filament bundle in carriage is subject to fluctuation of a tensile force applied thereto alternatively between tension and relaxation by locally and reciprocally pressing the bundle fed from a yarn supplier crosswise with regard to a moving course of the bundle, and the multi-filament bundle moving under the fluctuation passes in suspension through a fluid flowing portion, and the multi-filament bundle is subject to fluidal resistance while the bundle moving through the fluid flowing portion so as to bend the bundle towards a direction to which a fluid in use flows, and the fluid flows through an interstice between any adjacent monofilaments of the bundle whose bonding is slackened due to the fluidal resistance so as to widen the interstice. |
| US07832067B2 |
Three-dimensional camouflage pattern
The stealthiness of a camouflage fabric product is enhanced by rendering the camouflage pattern in three dimensional relief. In one implementation, a treatment such as an anti-pill treatment is applied to selected portions of the pattern prior to a finishing process. In the case of a circular web fabric, the finishing process may involve fleecing the fabric. In this manner, a cost effective process is provided for constructing a three-dimensional relief camouflage fabric product. |
| US07832058B2 |
Swivel hinge assembly for foldable electronic device
An exemplary swivel hinge assembly (10) includes a bracket (12), a hinge mechanism (14), a hinge follower mechanism (16), and a swivel mechanism (18). The hinge mechanism (14) and the hinge follower mechanism (16) are configured to provide the swivel hinge assembly (10) with rotation about a first rotational axis. The hinge mechanism (14) includes a first pivot shaft (154), a first connecting member (142), a positioning ring (146), a ring follower (144), an elastic member (148), a cam (150), and a cam follower (152). The hinge follower mechanism (16) includes a second connecting member (162) and a second pivot shaft (166). The swivel mechanism (18) is connected to the bracket (12) and configured to provide the swivel hinge assembly (10) with rotation about a second rotational axis. |
| US07832047B2 |
Wiper blade
The invention relates to a wiper blade (10) comprising a supporting element (12), on whose one side a wiper strip (14) can be mounted and on whose other side a connecting device (16) for a wiper arm (18) can be mounted, and which has two longitudinal rails (38) that are fixed relative to one another via bridges (40) and covered by caps (30, 70) at their ends (42). It is proposed that at least one cap (30, 70) consist of several parts and have a basic body (32, 72) and at least one moveable part (34, 74), wherein the basic body (32, 72) establishes a connection to the longitudinal rails (38), and the moveable part (34, 74) directly and/or indirectly fixes the wiper strip (14). |
| US07832046B2 |
Coupling apparatus of wiper arm
Disclosed herein is a coupling apparatus for a wiper arm, which can provide firm coupling between a wiper blade and the wiper arm. The coupling apparatus comprises a blade coupling part provided to the wiper blade and including front and rear plates and having an opening defined at upper portions of the front and rear plates and a support shaft having a rectilinear plane formed at either side of the support shaft, and a wiper arm coupling part integrally formed at one end with the wiper arm and including a slant insertion mechanism to cause the wiper arm to be slantly inserted onto the support shaft and to hold the support shaft so as not to be separated from the slant insertion mechanism by changing an inclination of the wiper arm after the wiper arm is inserted onto the support shaft. |
| US07832042B2 |
Brush head for toothbrush
An elongated toothbrush head defining a longitudinal axis includes a first brush member having a first brush support surface and a second brush member which is a pivot arm mounted for pivotal movement on the first brush member. The pivot arm has a second brush support surface including a first portion and a second portion which are joined together and include free ends which are spaced apart. The first portion and the second portion of the second brush support surface are capable of pivoting relative to the first brush support surface about an axis which extends transversely to the longitudinal axis of the head and laterally across the pivot arm. One or more teeth cleaning elements project from the first portion and the second portion and are inclined at an angle to the second brush support surface. |
| US07832040B2 |
Suspended flexible matrix support system
A suspended matrix support structure has a perimeter frame which supports a flexible matrix formed with intersecting flexible members, the ends of which are supported by the perimeter frame. Edges of the flexible members are held within channels which form a frame about the flexible matrix. In one embodiment, the perimeter frame is constructed of foam with contoured features which support the frame of the flexible matrix. The flexible members of the flexible matrix extend across the expanse within the perimeter frame to provide a flexible support structure which can be used as a mattress, mattress foundation or both in combination. |
| US07832037B2 |
Baby changing system for automobiles
A stowable baby changing system including a housing having a mount connectable to a first automobile seat, a sheet extendable from the housing over and above a seating surface of a second automobile seat, a locking mechanism for fixing the sheet in an extended position, and one or more attachments on a distal end of the sheet to secure the sheet over the seating surface, wherein the sheet is suspended above the seating surface in the extended position providing a clearance between the sheet and the seating surface. |
| US07832035B2 |
Surgical support for patient limb
A surgical arm rest or leg rest for supporting a patient's limb has concave tray or trough supported on a post member that extends downward. An elongated rod member situated below the tray with clamp member adjustably supports the post of the tray. A clamp member permits the rotation angle and tilt angle of the support post to be adjusted. An L-shaped support arm has a vertical arm portion adapted to be received into a support clamp mounted on the surgical table, and a horizontal arm that holds a sleeve member which supports the rod member. A locking lever on the sleeve member locks the rod member in place in the sleeve member. |
| US07832026B1 |
Toilet actuation apparatus
A toilet actuation apparatus. An illustrative embodiment of the apparatus includes a lever support, at least one pedal lever pivotally carried by the lever support, at least one pedal carried by the at least one pedal lever on a first side of the lever support, at least one actuation lever pivotally carried by the at least one pedal lever on a second side of the lever support, at least one toothed actuation rack carried by the at least one actuation lever and at least one toothed actuation pinion engaging the at least one toothed actuation rack. |
| US07832024B2 |
System for generating foam
A system capable of generating foam in a sanitary appliance includes a dosing device previously filled with a foaming substance, the dosing device metering a dosage of the substance, an agitation mechanism to agitate the substance to create foam, a receptacle to retain the substance for communication with the agitation mechanism, a fluid supply to allow fluid transport of the substance to the receptacle, and a trigger for activating the fluid supply. A dosing device of this system is further provided, including a container filled with a foaming substance, a positioner to position and house the container, the positioner further including a pin capable of creating a bottom aperture of the container, a fluid supply, wherein the outlet of the fluid supply is directed at the aperture on the bottom end of the container. A container is also provided that can be used in the dosing device. |
| US07832021B2 |
Medical glove with stethoscope protection
A medical glove is provided for protection against the transmission of infectious agents. The glove comprises a glove body sized to tightly enclose a wearer's hand. The glove body has a palm portion and adjoining finger portions. A webbing adjoins two of the finger portions. The webbing is sized to receive a stethoscope head between the finger portions when the finger portions are separated. The glove is formed of an acoustically transmissive elastomeric material that is substantially non-porous and sufficiently thin to allow tactile sensitivity and dexterity. |
| US07832019B1 |
Sterile glove with touchless donning
A sterile glove includes a hand and finger portion and a cuff having an inside surface and an outside surface. The cuff is adapted to be folded over at a fold when the glove is packaged in a sterile package and the fold forms an opening for inserting a hand into the glove. A stretching mechanism is coupled substantially near or on the fold and is adapted to increase a size of the opening while donning the glove. At least a portion of the stretching mechanism is detachable. The stretching mechanism has an unstretched state and a stretched state, and the stretching mechanism is in the unstretched state when the glove is packaged. |
| US07836515B1 |
System and method for enhanced piracy protection in a wireless personal communication device
A key-sharing scheme is used to control distribution and use of video and audio content in personal digital assistants (PDAs) and other wireless devices. A private key is split into key-shares using a Blakley-Shamir key splitting technique and the key-shares are distributed to various network entities including a finance server and security server. Key-shares are also stored in a user's subscriber identity module (SIM) and a security processor of the PDA. The key-shares from the network entities are provided to the PDA after the user requests specific video or audio content and a credit verification is performed. The PDA's security processor combines the key-shares to form the decryption key for use in playing the content by the PDA's communications processor. When a service limit is reached, the PDA's security processor purges the key-shares to prevent further use of the content. |
| US07836513B2 |
System, method, and computer program product for secure input for mobile devices
Exemplary embodiments include a system for secure input for a mobile device including: a input device for receiving an input from a user; a sensor for determining the status of the mobile device; and a processor in operable communication with the input device and the sensor, wherein the processor alters the input received from the user responsive to the status of the mobile device. |
| US07836511B2 |
Enforcing advertisement playback for downloaded media content
Enforcing rendering advertisements and other predetermined media content in connection with playback of downloaded selected media content. Playback of selected media content is made conditional on acquisition of a playback token that is generated in response to playback of the predetermined content. The playback token may be implemented as a digital rights management (DRM) license acquired in response to playback of the predetermined content. Another aspect involves a content insertion engine for inserting ads or other predetermined content into the playback of downloaded content. |
| US07836509B2 |
Recording medium, apparatus for reproducing data and method thereof
In one embodiment, the recording medium includes a management area storing management information. The management information includes navigation information for reproducing data from the recording medium, and the navigation information including region information. The region information indicates at least one geographic region in which reproduction of the data is permitted. |
| US07836505B2 |
Accelerated file scanning
Files are tested for presence of a predefined data pattern, such as a virus definition. For each one file of a first plurality of files, physical address data is derived from logical address information. Also, an entry is made in a first data structure. The entry includes file information and the derived physical address data. For each one cylinder of a hard drive, the first data structure is tested to identify any files having file contents stored in the cylinder. When the testing determines that the first data structure includes an entry having physical address data corresponding to the one cylinder, a read operation I requested to read the cylinder. Such testing and reading is repeated to read in multiple cylinders in a generally sequential order. The cylinder content is stored in a buffer. File content is read from the buffer for each one file of a second plurality of files. The read file content is tested for the presence of the predefined data pattern. |
| US07836501B2 |
Client compliancy with self-policing clients
Security sensor data from intrusion detection system (IDS) sensors, vulnerability assessment (VA) sensors, and/or other security sensors is used to enhance the compliancy determination in a client compliancy system. A database is used to store the security sensor data. In one particular embodiment, a list of device compliance statuses indexed by corresponding identifiers (e.g., IP/MAC addresses) combined from IDS, VA, and/or other security sensing technologies is made available as a non-compliance database for query, so that clients and other compliancy authentication elements can tell that a particular client appears to be out of compliance. A client-side self-policing compliance system is enabled, and can be used in conjunction with automated endpoint compliance policy configuration to reduce system administrator burden. |
| US07836500B2 |
Computer virus and malware cleaner
A virus and malware cleaner is generated for a personal computer. Scanning software determines the presence of suspicious attributes resident to the computer. When automated detection of the need for a Custom Cleaner occurs, specific system information, along with information about the suspicious attributes, is included in a Custom Cleaner Request. The request is automatically generated and transmitted to a server for processing. In response a Custom Cleaner may be automatically created from a database of parameterized instructions, then downloaded to the user's computer for execution. Automatic verification of the Custom Cleaner success in removing infected files may be sent to the server. In the event that a Custom Cleaner cannot be generated automatically, an escalation occurs in which a support technician becomes involved in preparing the Custom Cleaner. Escalation data accessed by the support technician may include automatically generated diagnostic hints. |
| US07836499B1 |
Dynamic depth inspection
Detecting network threats through dynamic depth inspection is disclosed. A mandatory threat detection procedure is performed on data received via a network. It is determined probabilistically whether to perform an optional threat detection procedure on at least a portion of the data. The optional threat detection procedure is then performed if it is determined that it should be performed. |
| US07836498B2 |
Device to protect victim sites during denial of service attacks
A system architecture for thwarting denial of service attacks on a victim data center is described. The system includes a first plurality of monitors that monitor network traffic flow through the network. The first plurality of monitors is disposed at a second plurality of points in the network. The system includes a central controller that receives data from the plurality of monitors, over a hardened, redundant network. The central controller analyzes network traffic statistics to identify malicious network traffic. In some embodiments of the system, a gateway device is disposed to pass network packets between the network and the victim site. The gateway is disposed to protect the victim site, and is coupled to the control center by the redundant hardened network. |
| US07836497B2 |
Apparatus and method for resilient IP security/internet key exchange security gateway
A method and apparatus adapting a Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP) between a set of physical SEGs that realize a V-SEG function towards a remote IPsec/IKE peer. In tandem with the VRRP, a new protocol, referred to herein as the IPsec/IKE SA Transfer Protocol (SATP), is introduced to exchange IKE and IPsec SA information between VRRP capable SEGs. SATP synchronizes all participating SEGs with respect to dynamic IPsec state information in near real time. Thus, in the event of a master VRRP SEG failure, one of the hot-standby SEGs takes over the V-SEG function. This allows the V-SEG function to remain functional despite the possible failure of one or more participating SEGs. |
| US07836496B2 |
Dynamic network protection
A method for protecting a network from an attack includes measuring a property of traffic entering the network, and analyzing the property using at least one fuzzy logic algorithm in order to detect the attack. |
| US07836494B2 |
System and method for regulating the flow of information to or from an application
The flow of information to or from an application on a host machine is regulated by a trusted agent operating in conjunction with at least one security element, such as a firewall or a policy server. When a communication to or from the application is detected by the trusted agent, the trusted agent gathers information about the attempted communication, and formulates and sends a message based upon the gathered information to at least one security element. The security element makes a decision to permit or block at least part of the attempted communication based upon the message received from the trusted agent. |
| US07836492B2 |
User authentication system leveraging human ability to recognize transformed images
An authentication system combining human image recognition capability to recognize transformed images, image transform element (41), and image storage element (38), and image display element (40), is implemented to enable user (32) to access a secure resource (31). Said authentication system provides a mass market solution that does not require expensive capital to implement and cannot be compromised as other authentication methods in prior art. |
| US07836491B2 |
System for identifying an individual, a method for identifying an individual or a business method
An individual may be identified by using a portable communication device. Biological information of the user is input into the communication device. The inputted biological information of the user is checked with reference biological information previously stored in the portable communication device. The portable communication device is connected to the Internet after the inputted biological information of the user and the reference biological information have matched. Then information that the inputted biological information of the user and the reference biological information have matched is transmitted to a server from the portable communication device. |
| US07836485B2 |
System and method for enrolling in a biometric system
The present invention is a system and method of enrolling potential system users for a biometric system for identity verification. Potential system user information is entered into the system, either by the user or a system operator, and is stored as a partially-enabled user record. The user of a partially-enabled user record fully enables the record by presenting information previously stored in the user record and presenting the remainder of user information necessary to complete record activation. Enrollment data is used to authenticate the system user's identity and authorize related transaction accesses in a biometric system for identity verification. |
| US07836484B2 |
Method and apparatus for providing access to an identity service
Method, apparatus and computer program for providing access to identity services of users. A Discovery Service DS server (100) stores for a set of users references (RO1A,ROnB) of identity services (IDSRV-A,IDSRV-B) available for them and usable to contact respectively with the Service Providers SPs (120,130) hosting each of said identity services. For a given identity service not yet registered for a given user, the DS server selects a SP (140) that is able to provide it, and stores a new resource offering (RO2X) that corresponds to the registration of said identity service. For selecting the appropriate SP, the DS server can check a service capability storage (103-2,301) that comprises information about what identity service(s) can be provided by a given SP, and which can be dynamically updated from SPs with the identity services they respectively support. The DS server can contact the user to collect SP preferences and/or service data. |
| US07836483B2 |
Automatic derivation of access control policies from a choreography
A system architecture and algorithm for automatically generating, installing and enforcing access control policies that correspond to an agreed specification of collaboration. A collaboration member enforces its access control policies using a dedicated access controller separate from a workflow engine. In one embodiment, each access control policy contains extensions which can direct an access controller to selectively enable or disable various access control policies upon authorization of an access request. |
| US07836478B2 |
Ethernet port control method and apparatus of digital broadcasting system
In an Ethernet port control method and apparatus of a digital broadcasting system, a head-end is caused to physically block functions of an Ethernet port disposed in a set-top box in order to prevent an unauthenticated device from accessing a cable modem termination system (CMTS) from the head-end through the Ethernet port in the set-top box for a malicious purpose, such as hacking. The Ethernet port control apparatus includes a head-end for providing a control message, including port closing information, for preventing abuse of an Ethernet port, and a set-top box for resetting the Ethernet port according to the port closing information, thereby closing the Ethernet port when the control message is received from the head-end. |
| US07836477B2 |
Information processing system, information processing apparatus and method
The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus by which image data can be downloaded simply. A video camera 11 receives thumbnail images corresponding to one or more images included in an album from a video camera image station 41 and displays the thumbnail images on an LCD unit. If one or more images to be downloaded are selected, then the video camera 11 acquires image information of the selected image or images from a video camera image station 41, analyzes the image information and discriminates it one by one image whether or not the selected image data are downloadable. Every time one image is discriminated to be downloadable, the video camera 11 accesses a corresponding URL designated for each image, downloads the image from the URL and records the image onto a recording medium. The video camera 11 successively downloads the selected images in this manner. |
| US07836476B2 |
Contents reproducing method and device for reproducing contents on recording medium
A disc drive, camera and a server are in communication with one another via a communication network. The disc drive plays back a disc in order to reproduce a recorded picture, whereby the picture and a real-time world view supplied from the camera are combined based on an address table managed by the server to produce a synthetic picture data. For example, a recorded picture reproduced from the disc and real-time world view taken by the camera are combined to synthesize a picture. Thus, content recorded in a recording medium can be used to produce the synthetic picture data. |
| US07836475B2 |
Video access
A media content instance is provided for display. A plurality of first images are identified associated with locations within a first segment of a media content instance according to a first offset that is one of: a time interval and a number of frames. The first images are retrieved from the media content instance. At least some of the first images are provided for display. |
| US07836471B2 |
Apparatus for receiving satellite DMB and method thereof
Disclosed are an apparatus for receiving a satellite DMB capable of minimizing a video broadcast channel switching time and a method thereof. In the method, time taken to bit de-interleave broadcasting data of the video broadcast channel is reduced thereby to minimize a delay time generated at the time of switching channels. In a satellite DMB receiver having a CDM demodulator for demodulating broadcasting data coded by a Walsh code and having a broadcasting data channel decoding unit for decoding the coded broadcasting data, the satellite DMB receiving apparatus comprises a CDM demodulator for demodulating a Walsh code of at least one broadcast channel, and at least one broadcasting data channel decoding unit for decoding more than one broadcast channel, and a selecting unit for selecting a channel to be viewed by a user. |
| US07836469B2 |
Differentiated PSIP table update interval technology
An apparatus, method and data structure for generating at least one table in a broadcast environment, are provided. The apparatus includes a generator to generate an event information table (EIT) and an extended text table (ETT). The ETT has program guide information for an n-hour span and has a transmission interval. The ETT has a transmission interval and program description information according to the EIT. The transmission interval of the EIT is shorter than the transmission interval of the ETT. |
| US07836468B2 |
Differentiated PSIP table update interval technology
An apparatus, method and data structure for generating at least one table in a broadcast environment, are provided. The apparatus includes a generator to generate an event information table (EIT) and an extended text table (ETT). The ETT has program guide information for an n-hour span and has a transmission interval. The ETT has a transmission interval and program description information according to the EIT. The transmission interval of the EIT is shorter than the transmission interval of the ETT. |
| US07836467B2 |
Interactive user interface
A user interface for an interactive information distribution system comprising a graphics region, a video region and a mask/reveal layer. The user interface is generated in a head end of the system as a digital bitstream and transmitted to subscriber equipment for display. Operation of the user interface is facilitated by functions on both a local level with the subscriber equipment and on a system level within the head end. One embodiment of the user interface is an interactive program guide. |
| US07836462B2 |
Optical disk device
An optical disk device is capable of reducing a thickness of a loading portion equipped with plural sheets of trays. Trays installed in a main body are energized to put an optical disk between them in the thickness direction. Therefore, a thickness of plural sheets of trays can be reduced by cutting down a clearance between the tray and the optical disk. Also, plural sheets of trays are energized by spring members to be put elastically between them in the thickness direction. Therefore, an excessive pushing force is not applied to the optical disk loaded on the tray. Also, a hollow portion of the tray is formed such that projection portions protruded in excess of a standard thickness dimension of the optical disk do not interfere with the tray. Therefore, even when the projection portions are protruded from an adapter, such adapter can be loaded on the tray. |
| US07836461B2 |
Computer interface system using multiple independent hardware and virtual human-computer input devices and related enabling subroutines
Improved computer interface system using multiple independent hardware and virtual human-computer input devices and related enabling subroutines is disclosed. Multiple independent data input devices allow users to input data independently from multiple independent data input devices to operating system. Input device driver decodes input from multiple independent input devices. Operating system interface software interprets data from input device driver. Operating system software further generates and controls multiple cursors or control points. Input device aware program obtains and interprets input devices event message, and controls input device aware objects. |
| US07836457B2 |
Hybrid contextual floor plans for object instances
Methods and apparatus, including computer program products, for hybrid contextual floor plans for object instances. A method for providing a user interface for running business entities wherein data related to a process instance and data related to an object instance are managed in a uniform way, includes enabling a generalized meta model to unify process data and object data where there is a direct relationship between process and object instance, enabling an interface generator for directly generating a user interface from the generalized meta model, that allows the user to manipulate data either directly by manipulating the object data or indirectly by performing a process step, and enabling the user interface by the interface generator, the user interface providing a hybrid view of a process view representing phase data of an instantiated process instance and an object view representing object data of an instantiated object instance. |
| US07836456B1 |
Seamless extension of shareable interface mechanism to servlet and extended applet model for inter-application communication
In a smart card system in which applications executing in different execution contexts are allowed to communicate with each other only through shareable interface objects (SIO's), a registry mechanism is provided to mediate in inter-application communication between legacy applets, extended applets and servlets. A request by a client application for a SIO of a server application in a different execution context is routed to the registry mechanism by the system. Dependent on what types the client and server applications are, the registry mechanism provides call interfaces as would be expected by the applications to enable passing the SIO from the server application to the client application. In one embodiment, servlets and extended applets may also register and unregister their SIOs dynamically with the registration mechanism. |
| US07836452B2 |
System, method and program for estimating a requisite amount of server resources
System, method and program product for determining if a plurality of applications executed on a plurality of servers can be executed on a single server. First program instructions determine if the single server has sufficient processor power to execute the plurality of applications. Second program instructions determine if the plurality of applications have a same type of operating system on the plurality of servers. Third program instructions determine if the plurality of applications have a same type of middleware on the plurality of servers. The first program instructions determine peak processor utilizations and times of the peak processor utilizations for the plurality of applications, respectively, to determine whether the single server has sufficient processor power to execute the plurality of applications. Other program instructions determine the single server to be a standard vendor server which has a smallest processor adequate to support processing requirements of the plurality of applications and has a predetermined, minimum processing power in reserve. Other program instructions determine if the plurality of applications have a similar function or are identical. Other program instructions determine if the plurality of applications have a same type of application environment on the plurality of servers. |
| US07836451B2 |
Method, system and program product for approximating resource consumption of a computer system
Under the present invention, a computer work gradient matrix (hereinafter “matrix”) is developed by applying a set of background loading levels and a set of elemental work increments to a computer system, and then measuring the resource consumption of the computer system based thereon. Task work path(s) are also constructed by applying specific tasks to the computer system at a certain background loading level, and measuring the resource consumption of the computer system over time. Once the matrix and task work path(s) have been provided, they can be used to approximate the resource consumption of the computer system in response to a task applied at any background loading level. |
| US07836450B2 |
Symmetric multiprocessor operating system for execution on non-independent lightweight thread contexts
A multiprocessing system is disclosed. The system includes a multithreading microprocessor, including a plurality of thread contexts (TCs), each comprising a first control indicator for controlling whether the TC is exempt from servicing interrupt requests to an exception domain for the plurality of TCs, and a virtual processing element (VPE), comprising the exception domain, configured to receive the interrupt requests, wherein the interrupt requests are non-specific to the plurality of TCs, wherein the VPE is configured to select a non-exempt one of the plurality of TCs to service each of the interrupt requests, the VPE further comprising a second control indicator for controlling whether the VPE is enabled to select one of the plurality of TCs to service the interrupt requests. The system also includes a multiprocessor operating system (OS), configured to initially set the second control indicator to enable the VPE to service the interrupts, and further configured to schedule execution of threads on the plurality of TCs, wherein each of the threads is configured to individually disable itself from servicing the interrupts by setting the first control indicator, rather than by clearing the second control indicator. |
| US07836449B2 |
Extensible infrastructure for task display and launch
A task infrastructure that allows for the decoupling of the task launch code from the task client code and from the task execution code is provided. The task infrastructure allows the relationship between the task display and launch logic and the task client logic to be defined in a declarative manner, allowing for the segregation of the task display and launch logic from the task client logic. The task infrastructure comprises a manifest that contains a specification of the relationship between the task display and launch logic and the task client logic. The manifest may also define which task clients expose which tasks, the context under which each task is displayed, the arguments that the task needs in order to start execution, the task description to display, and the method in which the task can be launched. At run-time, a task client can read the manifest and decide which task or tasks to expose to an end user under a current context. |
| US07836447B2 |
Method of efficient performance monitoring for symmetric multi-threading systems
Efficient performance monitoring for symmetric multi-threading systems is applicable to systems that have limited performance monitoring resources and enables efficient resource sharing on a per-execution unit basis. The performance monitoring unit being shared is programmed to reset its counter and to start performance monitoring operation if there is only one execution unit requesting this operation. In case there are several requests pending, an attempt is made to program the performance monitoring unit to collect performance data for a subset of execution units the hardware is capable to support. Upon a request to stop performance monitoring operation the previously allocated indicator may be removed, and the performance monitoring unit may be programmed to stop operating if there are no more active or pending requests. In case the performance monitoring was inactive for the current execution unit, this request may be discarded, and no performance data may be returned. |
| US07836445B2 |
Technique for installing a station device driver
A technique is disclosed that provides a host computing device user with convenient access to a network. In the illustrative embodiment of the present invention, a telecommunications station stores device driver files. The host computing device installs a device driver. Once properly configured, the host computing device controls the station, through the device driver, to transmit data blocks into a shared-communications medium. The host computing device also receives a first portion of network-specific data (e.g., network configuration information, security configuration information, etc.) that enables the host computing device to properly configure itself to communicate via the network of interest. |
| US07836443B2 |
Network application apparatus
An apparatus and method to distribute applications and services throughout a network, including switch functionality and the ability to apply applications and services to received data according to subscriber profiles. Network Processor Modules (NPMs) receive and recognize data flows from subscribers, extract profile information for the subscribers, and utilize flow scheduling techniques to forward the data to Flow Processor Modules (FPMs). The FPMs utilize resident applications to process data received from the NPMs. A Control Processor Module facilitates applications processing and maintains connections to the NPMs, FPMs, local and remote storage devices, and a Management Server (MS) module that can monitor the health and maintenance of the various modules. The MS can download and otherwise control applications on the FPMs to provide an open architecture for downloading, executing, modifying, and otherwise managing applications. |
| US07836439B2 |
System and method for extending a component-based application platform with custom services
A system and method for dynamically associating an application with an extension service to generate an extended, dynamically linked version of the application. The application is configurable for deployment on an electronic device and for subsequent interaction with the extension service during execution through communication messages defined in a structured definition language. The system and method include a parser module configured for analyzing a set of service metadata descriptors to identify a communication interface associated with the extension service, such that the service metadata descriptors describe the communication interface including structure and type of parameters expected by the extension service for use in manipulation of the communication messages. The system and method also include a linking module coupled to the parser module for using the communication interface and a reference to the extension service in the code of the application to build a runtime dynamic link between the extension service and the application to produce the executable application. |
| US07836438B1 |
Modified classfile registration with a dispatch unit that is responsible for dispatching invocations during runtime execution of modified bytecode
A byte code modification method for a classfile is described. The classfile describes properties of a class within an object oriented environment. The byte code modification method entails modifying a classfile after the classfile has been compiled from source code. The modification of the classfile entails modifying a method information structure by adding byte code instructions to the byte code instructions of the method information structure's respective method. The added, byte code instructions cause a plug-in module's handler method to execute an output function for the method when it is executed during runtime. The modification of the classfile also entails adding a method information structure that includes byte code instructions for registering the identities of the class and the method with a dispatch unit. The dispatch unit is responsible for dispatching an invocation to the plug-in module during runtime execution of the modified byte code, where, the invocation is directed to the dispatch unit from the added byte code instructions. |
| US07836436B2 |
Transformation of an asynchronous transactional messaging language into a web services compatible language
Instructions in an asynchronous transactional messaging language are transformed into instructions that are compatible with the web services. In one embodiment, the asynchronous transactional messaging language is XLANG/s, and the web service languages are the web services description language (WSDL) and the simple object access protocol (SOAP). A programmer simply writes high level declarative statements that pertain to the specific type of business transaction. During compilation, selected instructions are transformed into instructions that are compatible with web services. This transformation is transparent to the designer of the business application. The asynchronous transactional messaging language source files are compiled in an iterative compilation process. During each pass of this compilation process, different variables are parsed. The parsed results are logically organized in a tree structure. The tree structure is traversed in depth first traversal order. During this traversal, instructions are transformed into instructions compatible with web services. |
| US07836430B2 |
Reversing execution of instructions in a debugger
A method can include receiving navigational debug input from a debugger interface including input to traverse input code in a plurality of modes; in response to receiving the navigational debug input, a) saving state of a program being executed in a corresponding debugger, including creating a child process from a currently executing process, and b) executing a portion of the program, wherein executing the portion of the program comprises suspending the created child process, and continuing to execute the currently executing process; receiving input to reverse execution of the portion of the program; and restoring the saved state of the program, wherein restoring the saved state of the program comprises suspending the currently executing process and activating the suspended child process. The navigation input can include input to single-step, step over a function, step into a function or set a breakpoint in programming code running within the corresponding debugger. |
| US07836429B2 |
Data synchronization mechanism for change-request-management repository interoperation
Computer method and apparatus for managing software configuration repositories are disclosed. In a plurality of repositories each repository holds a respective set of change-request objects. One of the repositories in the plurality is a primary repository, and the other repositories are working repositories. In the primary repository, there is a respective proxy object for each change-request object of interest in a working repository. Each proxy object has a corresponding associated change-request object in the primary repository. For a given proxy object, changes made to the respective change-request object of interest in the working repository are mapped to the associated change-request object in the primary repository and vice versa. |
| US07836421B2 |
Semiconductor layout design apparatus and method for evaluating a floorplan using distances between standard cells and macrocells
A semiconductor layout design apparatus has an inter-block connection information extracting part, a cell initial placement part and an evaluation value. The inter-block connection information extracting part configured to extract the number of wiring connections between a plurality of blocks including standard cells and macrocells based on a net list, library information, floor plan information and technology information. The cell initial placement part configured to initially place the standard cells and the macrocells in an placement region to generate an initial floor plan. The evaluation value calculating part configured to calculate an evaluation value of the floor plan based on distances between a plurality of blocks including the standard cells and the macrocells initially placed by the cell initial placement part and the extracted number of the wiring connections between a plurality of blocks. |
| US07836419B1 |
Method and system for partitioning integrated circuits
Method and system for partitioning integrated circuits are disclosed. The method includes receiving a netlist representation of the circuit comprising circuit components, partitioning the circuit to form one or more circuit partitions according to a predefined partitioning method, where each circuit partition includes one or more circuit components. The method further includes, for each circuit partition, identifying substantial correlations between the circuit partition and one or more other circuit partitions to form a spanning tree, where the spanning tree connects the circuit partition to the one or more other circuit partitions via a graph, and merging the circuit partition and the one or more other circuit partitions in the spanning tree to form a new circuit partition. |
| US07836416B2 |
Hardware-based HDL code coverage and design analysis
Techniques and systems for analysis, diagnosis and debugging fabricated hardware designs at a Hardware Description Language (HDL) level are described. Although the hardware designs (which were designed in HDL) have been fabricated in integrated circuit products with limited input/output pins, the techniques and systems enable the hardware designs within the integrated circuit products to be analyzed, diagnosed, and debugged at the HDL level at speed. The ability to debug hardware designs at the HDL level facilitates correction or adjustment of the HDL description of the hardware designs. Moreover, various embodiments related to HDL code coverage are described. |
| US07836415B2 |
Circuit design method and circuit design system for calculating power consumption considering IR-drop
In a circuit design method, a computer calculates power of each of cells, calculates an IR drop value by calculating a voltage decreased due to an IR drop for each cell by using the power for each cell, determines whether a difference between a current IR drop value and a previous IR drop is equal to or less than a predetermined value, and defines a voltage after the IR drop occurs for each cell by using the IR drop value when the difference is greater than the predetermined value. The computer repeats calculating the power, calculating the IR drop value, and defining the value after the IR drop occurs until the difference becomes equal to or less than the predetermined value. |