| Document | Document Title |
|---|---|
| US07966885B2 |
Sonotrode especially for accelerating shot for ultrasonic shot peening
A sonotrode for accelerating shot for ultrasonic shot peening, includes at least one vibration exciter and a cover element that has an output side of the sonotrode, wherein the cover element is to be operated by means of the vibration exciter with a forced vibration such that the value of the vibration amplitude of the cover element corresponds essentially to the value of the vibration amplitude of the vibration exciter, where from this cover element another cover element is set out on the further side of the vibration exciter and in which between these two cover elements is stretched a majority of spring elements in the form of tension springs. |
| US07966884B2 |
Two-dimensional-array ultrasonic probe and ultrasonic diagnostic system
A two-dimensional array ultrasonic probe has an ultrasonic transducer. The transducer has transducer elements that are arranged in a first direction and a second direction, forming a lattice. Acoustic-emission electrodes are provided on the acoustic-emission surfaces of the transducer elements. Back electrodes are provided on the backs of the transducer elements. A transmitting-circuit unit is connected to the acoustic-emission electrodes. A receiving-circuit unit is connected to the back electrodes. Of the acoustic-emission electrodes, two electrodes are short-circuited to the transmitting circuits of the transmitting-circuit unit. The remaining two acoustic-emission electrodes are short-circuited to the receiving circuits of the receiving-circuit unit. |
| US07966883B2 |
Non-destructive inspection using laser-ultrasound and infrared thermography
An inspection system is provided to examine internal structures of a target material. This inspection system includes a generation laser, an ultrasonic detection system, a thermal imaging system, and a processor/control module. The generation laser produces a pulsed laser beam that is operable to induce ultrasonic displacements and thermal transients at the target material. The ultrasonic detection system detects ultrasonic surface displacements at the target material. The thermal imaging system detects thermal transients at the target material. The processor analyzes both detected ultrasonic displacements and thermal imagery of the target material to yield information about the target material's internal structure. |
| US07966881B2 |
Arrangement for detecting resonance frequency shifts
The present invention relates to an arrangement (1) for detection of a first resonance frequency (F1), related to a mass (1b′) loaded carrier means (1b), and to compare said first resonance frequency (F1) with a second, as a reference used, resonance frequency (F2), related to said carrier means (1b), by using frequency comparing and/or calculating means (3, 4) to evaluate, by a noted frequency shift (F2-F1), a mass weight (1b′). An array of individual carrier means (1a, 1b . . . 1n) are arranged adjacent to each other, that one or more of said carrier means are allotted different second resonance frequencies, that received resonance frequencies (F1) from said loaded carrier means are received and/or evaluated simultaneously, or at least essentially simultaneously, in a signal receiving and/or processing unit (3) and that said first resonance frequencies (F1) are compared and/or calculated within said calculating means (3, 4) with corresponding resonance frequencies (F2) stored in said unit (3, 4) in a memory (4b) thereof. |
| US07966879B2 |
Fluid storage and dispensing system including dynamic fluid monitoring of fluid storage and dispensing vessel
A monitoring system (100) for monitoring fluid in a fluid supply vessel (22, 24, 26, 28, 108) during operation including dispensing of fluid from the fluid supply vessel. The monitoring system includes (i) one or more sensors (114, 126) for monitoring a characteristic of the fluid supply vessel or the fluid dispensed therefrom, (ii) a data acquisition module (40, 132, 146) operatively coupled to the one or more sensors to receive monitoring data therefrom and responsively generate an output correlative to the characteristic monitored by the one or more sensors, and (iii) a processor (50, 150) and display (52, 150) operatively coupled with the data acquisition module and arranged to process the output from the data acquisition module and responsively output a graphical representation of fluid in the fluid supply vessel, billing documents, usage reports, and/or resupply requests. |
| US07966875B2 |
Methods and apparatus for measuring formation properties
This application relates to various methods and apparatus for rapidly obtaining accurate formation property data from a drilled earthen borehole. Quickly obtaining accurate formation property data, including formation fluid pressure, is vital to beneficially describing the various formations being intersected. For example, methods are disclosed for collecting numerous property values with a minimum of downhole tools, correcting and calibrating downhole measurements and sensors, and developing complete formation predictors and models by acquiring a diverse set of direct formation measurements, such as formation fluid pressure and temperature. Also disclosed are various methods of using of accurately and quickly obtained formation property data. |
| US07966874B2 |
Multi-resolution borehole profiling
Harmonics and subharmonics of acoustic measurements made during rotation of a sensor on a downhole are processed to estimate the location of the imager, and size and shape of the borehole. A piecewise elliptical fitting procedure may be used. These estimates may be used to correct measurements made by a standoff-sensitive formation evaluation sensor such as a neutron porosity tool. |
| US07966873B1 |
Systems and methods for providing a severe acoustic, thermal, and airflow test environment
A system for simultaneously creating severe acoustic, thermal and airflow environmental conditions is described. The system includes a jig for mounting a test article, a jet engine, and a nozzle attached to the jet engine. The nozzle includes an opening for defining a two dimensional exhaust flow from the jet engine to create an acoustical, thermal and airflow environment across the test article. The jig is operable for maintaining a position of the test article with respect to the nozzle. |
| US07966865B2 |
Method for balancing radical projections detached from a rotating assembly
The invention discloses an improved method and apparatus to statically equalize the span wise and chord wise moments of a detached plurality of radial projections. These detached radial projections are associated with a rotating assembly and constitute the majority of its rotating mass. When installed on the rotating assembly, the balanced radial projections will necessarily produce a center of rotating mass approximately concentric with its axis of rotation, thereby minimizing vibrations associated with its rotation. The method to statically equalize the span wise moments of the radial projections comprises first determining the span wise moment by finding the center of gravity and multiplying the distance from the center of gravity to the plane of attachment of the radial projection to the rotating assembly by its total weight. |
| US07966862B2 |
Electrode structure for particulate matter sensor
A particulate matter detector formed in an insulated device such as a spark plug. The insulated device has a center electrode having a first end and a second end. The first end of the center electrode passes through the insulated device and may be connected to a terminal. The second end of the electrode is formed to provide a greater surface area. The form may be a star, circle, series of S's or a helix to increase the surface area of the second end of the center electrode that may be exposed to the exhaust from an engine. The sensor may be used to measure particulate matter in the exhaust of an engine and permit a processor to regulate the operation of the engine. |
| US07966861B2 |
Jig frame for drop test of flat panel display device
A jig frame for a drop test of a flat panel display, which is designed to allow a tester to effectively identify if the flat panel display is damaged and to easily adjust its weight and degree of deformation is provided. The jig frame for a drop test of a flat panel display includes a base plate having a groove for receiving the flat panel display and a cover plate fixing the flat panel display by covering the flat panel display and being coupled to the base plate. The cover plate is formed of transparent material so that the flat panel display installed in the jig frame is visible to outside of the cover plate. |
| US07966858B2 |
Bending tool for a bending press
A bending tool that may be used for bending elongated works and in which the works are not likely to be damaged is provided. An angle formed by a blade parting line L1, L2 and an outside edge of a blade of each die is made larger than an angle formed by the blade parting line L1, L2 and an inside edge. An inner end edge of the bending block of one of dies is chamfered to be parallel to the outside edge of the blade and the inside edge is shorter than the length of the inner end edge 16C, 26C. The blade parting line L1 of one of the dies is located at a position further toward the blade parting line L2 of the other of the dies with respect to the center of the space between the blade parting line and the inner end edge of the bending block. |
| US07966857B1 |
Method of making an HVAC high efficiency takeoff connector
An HVAC connector is disclosed that includes a one-piece conduit. The conduit includes a generally planar, rectangular mounting flange that defines an air inlet into the conduit. A first body portion extends from the mounting flange and a second body portion extends from the first body portion to define a generally tubular takeoff neck having a round outlet that is disposed generally parallel to the mounting flange. |
| US07966853B2 |
Key carrier
The invention relates to a key carrier comprising a base body (1) and a window, wherein one respective end of the base body (1) and window (6) is provided with a fork-shaped termination. A key ring (21) can be introduced into a gap (18) defined by the prongs (10,11) of the fork-shaped end of the window (6). When inserted, said key ring is secured by means of a retaining bolt (14). The prongs (10,11) of the window can be clipped in between the prongs (2,3) of the base body. When clipped in, the window is retained by pivoting journals (16,17) which engage with the opposite ends of the window bores (12,13) receiving the retaining bolts (14). |
| US07966852B1 |
Two-stage lock cylinder structure
The present invention relates to a two-stage lock cylinder structure, which includes a lock casing, a lock barrel and an actuating unit, wherein a first joining member is located at one end of the lock barrel, and the actuating unit is fitted with a corresponding second joining member. Moreover, a flexible member is located between the lock barrel and the actuating unit, and the displacement distance of the first joining member towards the second joining member is smaller than the center distance of any of two through holes of the lock casing. Accordingly, the flexible member and the actuating unit are used to enable achieving two-stage actuation as an unlocking operation for a locking device, thereby providing the present invention with burglar-proof effectiveness. |
| US07966851B2 |
Security container with linked primary and secondary security features
A security storage container has a primary security feature that is adapted to be locked and unlocked with an appropriate key. A secondary security feature is activated when the security storage container is opened without first unlocking the lock with the key. In one embodiment, the secondary security feature includes prongs that are moved to an extended position when the primary security feature of the container is defeated. In the extended position, the prongs will at least damage the item of merchandise protected by the security storage container. The extended position of the prongs may also further lock the item of merchandise within the security storage container. |
| US07966846B2 |
Optical fiber drawing and twisting apparatus
An optical fiber twisting apparatus that prevents line distortion in an optical fiber undergoing a drawing process and provides a consistent coating on a bare optical fiber. This optical fiber twisting apparatus includes a twist roller apparatus that having a twist roller that, by imparting a twist to an optical fiber, imparts a twist to a molten portion of an optical fiber preform positioned on an upstream side of the optical fiber, and a support portion that supports the twist roller. The accuracy of the outer circumference of the twist roller when the twist roller is forming a part of the twist roller apparatus is 15 μm or less. |
| US07966839B2 |
Method and system for controlling a compressor for an HVAC module
A system for controlling a heating and cooling system for use on a machine includes a condenser, an evaporator assembly, an electric motor driven compressor, and a master controller operable to determine and regulate an operational speed of the compressor. The master controller includes a plurality of control algorithms each receiving respective dynamic input information and outputting a respective controller speed request based upon the respective dynamic input information. |
| US07966837B2 |
Air-conditioning register assembly and method
A register assembly for augmenting the flow of conditioned air from a central air-conditioning unit to a room includes a fan, a temperature sensor, and a processing means. The fan is operably positioned for increasing air flow through the register assembly. The temperature sensor is for measuring a temperature of air in the register assembly and for outputting a measured temperature signal. The processing means is for: receiving the measured temperature signal; using the measured temperature signal in determining whether the central air-conditioning unit is providing conditioned air to the room; and activating the fan to augment the conditioned air flow if the central air-conditioning unit is providing conditioned air to the room. The processing means also provides drift compensation to prevent unwanted operation of the fan due to temperature drifts. The register assembly may include a rectangular housing positioned around the components for use in a floor vent, or a housing adapting a floor vent to a centrifugal, tower fan. |
| US07966832B1 |
Combustor
A combustor includes a first wall, a second wall, an injector grommet, a combustor longitudinal axis, and a connection assembly indirectly connecting the first wall to the second wall. A portion of the injector grommet is disposed within a groove of the connection assembly. |
| US07966828B2 |
Variable area nozzle with woven sleeve extension
A variable area fan nozzle for use with a gas turbine engine system includes a nozzle section that is attachable to a gas turbine engine for influencing flow through the fan bypass passage of the gas turbine engine. The nozzle section is movable between a first length and a second length that is larger than the first length to influence the flow. For example, the nozzle section includes members that are woven together to form collapsible openings that are open when the nozzle section is moved to the first length and that are closed when the nozzle section is moved to the second length. |
| US07966826B2 |
Systems and methods for reducing noise from jet engine exhaust
Jet engine nozzles with projections (e.g., chevrons) and injected flow, and associated systems and methods are disclosed. A method in accordance with one embodiment includes generating a first flow of gas with a jet engine, delivering the first flow through a nozzle having a trailing edge perimeter that includes multiple projections extending in an aft direction, and injecting a pressurized second flow of fluid into the first flow proximate to the projections. In other embodiments, other mixing enhancement devices (e.g., vortex generators) are carried by the projections. It is expected that the combination of the projections and the mixing enhancement devices will reduce engine exhaust noise levels below the levels achievable with either projections or injected flow individually. |
| US07966825B2 |
Exhaust eductor system with a recirculation baffle
An exhaust educator system includes a primary exhaust nozzle configured to transport an active flow stream; and a mixing duct at least partially surrounding the primary exhaust nozzle and configured to transport a passive flow stream that is entrained by mixing with the active flow stream from the primary exhaust nozzle. The mixing duct has an interior, and a baffle on the interior of the mixing duct is configured to prevent the mixed flow streams from exiting the mixing duct. |
| US07966824B2 |
Jet engine nozzle exit configurations and associated systems and methods
Nozzle exit configurations and associated systems and methods are disclosed. An aircraft system in accordance with one embodiment includes a jet engine exhaust nozzle having an internal flow surface and an exit aperture, with the exit aperture having a perimeter that includes multiple projections extending in an aft direction. Aft portions of individual neighboring projections are spaced apart from each other by a gap, and a geometric feature of the multiple can change in a monotonic manner along at least a portion of the perimeter. |
| US07966823B2 |
Exhaust dust flow splitter system
A gas turbine engine augmentor includes an augmentor outer casing 502 and an annular augmentor liner 504 disposed radially within and radially separated from the augmentor outer casing 502 to form a generally annular augmentor liner cooling flow path 500 between the augmentor casing and the annular augmentor liner, and an augmentor flow splitter duct 506 disposed at the upstream end of the augmentor liner and radially between the augmentor outer casing 502 and the annular augmentor liner 504 and defining a splitter flow path 520 between the annular augmentor liner 504 and the annular augmentor flow splitter duct 506. A method of operating a gas turbofan engine including an augmentor includes directing a portion of fan bypass air into a generally annular augmentor liner cooling flow path 500 between an augmentor outer casing 502 and an annular augmentor liner 504, directing a portion of the air in the augmentor liner cooling flow path 500 into a splitter flow path 520 disposed radially outside the augmentor liner 504 and maintaining positive backflow pressure margin between air flow within the splitter flow path and the augmentor liner cooling flow path 500. |
| US07966822B2 |
Reverse-flow gas turbine combustion system
A gas turbine combustion system for burning air and fuel into exhaust gases. The gas turbine combustion system may include a combustor, a turbine nozzle integral with the combustor for providing the air to the combustor, and a fuel injector for providing the fuel to the combustor. The turbine nozzle and the fuel injector are positioned within the combustor such that a mixture of the air and the fuel flows in a first direction and the exhaust gases flow in a second direction. |
| US07966818B2 |
Gas turbine combustion chamber with fuel injection over an entire combustion chamber annulus
A gas turbine combustion chamber includes an annular combustion chamber (3) confined by an outer (1) and an inner combustion chamber wall (2) and is provided with several fuel injection nozzles (4). Air deflectors (6) are arranged in a front-side area of the annular combustion chamber (3) over the entire combustion chamber annulus (5) concentrically around a combustion chamber axis (12) and fuel injection nozzles (4) are distributed essentially uniformly over the combustion chamber annulus (5). |
| US07966813B2 |
Sealing element for a brake cylinder of a vehicle braking system
A sealing element seals a pressure piston which is movably arranged in a housing of a brake cylinder. The sealing element may be inserted into a ring-shaped groove which is provided in the housing. The sealing element includes an outer sealing lip for contact with a floor of the ring-shaped groove, an inner sealing lip for contact with the pressure piston, and a sealing element back. At least one non-sealing spacer element is provided on the sealing element back. |
| US07966809B2 |
Single-piece hybrid rocket motor
A hybrid rocket motor is formed from a single piece of material, such as, for example, by extrusion or injection molding. The rocket motor includes various components, such as casing, structure, oxidizer tank, combustion chamber, fuel, port and nozzle that are all formed from a single piece of material. The material can be, for example, a material that can be used as solid rocket fuel. |
| US07966802B2 |
Methods and apparatus for operating gas turbine engine systems
Methods and systems for operating a gas turbine engine system are provided. The system includes a fuel control system. The fuel control system includes a plurality of sensors positioned about the gas turbine engine system and configured to measure at least one parameter associated with the sensor, and a processor programmed to receive a signal from at least one of the plurality of sensors indicative of a composition of the fuel. The processor is further programmed to determine the physical properties of a fuel at an inlet to the flow control devices using a flow model and the at least one signal, determine a corresponding correction to a gas fuel flow gain using the determined physical properties, and automatically control fuel delivery as well as fuel split between the fuel injection points on the combustor using the adjusted flow gain to facilitate permitting a relatively large variation in the fuel composition for use in the gas turbine engine. |
| US07966801B2 |
Apparatus and method for gas turbine active combustion control system
An Active Combustion Control System and method provides for monitoring combustor pressure and modulating fuel to a gas turbine combustor to prevent combustion dynamics and/or flame extinguishments. The system includes an actuator, wherein the actuator periodically injects pulsed fuel into the combustor. The apparatus also includes a sensor connected to the combustion chamber down stream from an inlet, where the sensor generates a signal detecting the pressure oscillations in the combustor. The apparatus controls the actuator in response to the sensor. The apparatus prompts the actuator to periodically inject pulsed fuel into the combustor at a predetermined sympathetic frequency and magnitude, thereby controlling the amplitude of the pressure oscillations in the combustor by modulating the natural oscillations. |
| US07966798B2 |
Device for stretching a transmission chain
Device for stretching a transmission chain closed in itself and comprising pairs of elongated rocker elements mutually coupled by links, said rocker elements being destined for a torque transferring cooperation with the pulley sheaves of a pulley sheave transmission, and comprising a first and a second supporting surface which support a chain to be treated over an angle of an arc and having an adjustable mutual distance to generate tensile stresses in the chain supported thereby, in which the first supporting surface is freely rotatable accommodated between the first ends of two distant frame parts, the second supporting surface is freely rotatable accommodated on an auxiliary carrier between the two frame parts, said carrier being provided with two opposite stubby shafts, protruding there from and of which the axis lies at a distance from the axis of rotation of the second supporting surface which is rotatably supported by said auxiliary carrier and lies near the second end of the frame parts while of said supporting surfaces at least one can be driven in rotation. |
| US07966794B2 |
Method for a drive system of an agricultural machine with a floating work tool
A drive system for agricultural implements having at least one floating head and a tongue that may be disposed at various angles relative to a longitudinal angle of the implement. Two swivel gearbox assemblies are used, each comprising a first 90° gearbox rigidly attached to the implement and a second 90° gearbox that is permitted to rotate about an axis passing through one of its shafts and one of the first 90° gearbox's shaft. Because the tongue angle is variable, the drive shafts for driving the implement must take on a plurality of angles. The swiveling gearbox assemblies allow variable angles at the tongue and at the header. |
| US07966790B2 |
Apparatus for pulling foil hood down over large object
An apparatus for pulling a tubular film down over a large object has at least two guide and roller assemblies each flanking the object and each movable vertically along the object. Each assembly has a guide, an outer roller and an inner roller. The film is gathered by positioning the assemblies in an upper position, orienting the inner rollers generally below the outer rollers, and rotating the rollers while gripping the hood between them to pull the tube down and form it into folds beneath the roller assemblies. The film is pulled down over the object by orienting the inner rollers generally above the outer rollers, and then shifting the roller assemblies downward while rotating the rollers so as to pull the tube up and unfold it. |
| US07966788B2 |
Method and device for packaging product portions in a wrapper
A method and a device for packaging product portions in a wrapper are proposed, wherein at least two webs of a packaging material are aligned parallel, with the longitudinal edges facing each other overlapping, and each transported towards one upwardly open folding shaft, the webs are severed transverse to the overlapping longitudinal edges, creating flat blanks of the wrappers, and the blanks are folded into the folding shaft , creating an upwardly open wrapper, whereupon the product portion is placed in the open wrappers and the upwardly protruding sections of the wrappers are then turned inward while overlapping. The blanks, whose inner edges overlap, are guided in frictional engagement to their folding position above the folding shafts, whereupon the longitudinal edges of the overlapping blanks facing each other are, lifted together , whereupon the blanks are released by releasing the frictional engagement. |
| US07966787B2 |
Vacuum device and method for packaging same
A method for packaging the vacuum device includes providing a pre-packaged container having an exhaust through hole defined therein and a sealing element placed into the exhaust through hole, pumping the pre-packaged container to create a vacuum, heating and softening the sealing element to seal the exhaust through hole, and cooling the melted low-melting glass to package the pre-packaged container. |
| US07966785B2 |
Laminated display window and device incorporating same
A laminated window assembly for a device, such as a handheld electronic device (e.g., a media player or mobile telephone), includes a window layer that preferably is glass, and a larger, substantially transparent lip-forming layer to which it is laminated, preferably by a substantially clear adhesive. Additional adhesive preferably is placed at at least portions of the edge of the window layer adjacent the lip-forming layer, especially at the corners, to resist delamination. Holes preferably are formed in the lip—e.g., at the corners—to resist the lip-forming layer peeling apart from the window layer forming layer. The holes preferably make up at most about 33% of the periphery of the window layer. |
| US07966782B2 |
Patio enclosure
An enclosed structure, such as a patio enclosure, sunroom, or solarium, is attachable to the exterior wall of a building, has a high proportion of windows and a roof, and constructed from a framework of composite members and insulating wall panels, wherein header and post beams of the room wall assemblies are extruded from material having improved thermal characteristics and stability. Importantly, the beams enable wire services to be routed in concealed fashion from a power source associated with the building to accessible locations in the room and remote to the building. The header and post beams are configured to enable the wire services to be concealed but yet accessible for repair and routing through the header beams and into one or more post beams, as desired. |
| US07966780B2 |
Thermally conductive wall structure
There is described a wall structure for absorbing or transferring heat from or to the ground, the wall structure comprising a footing for the wall structure disposed in the ground below grade extending in the longitudinal direction of the wall structure, a vertical wall supported on and extending longitudinally in the direction of the footing, the vertical wall extending upwardly from the footing above grade to a predetermined height, and having upper, lower, interior, exterior and end surfaces, a sheath of insulation for enveloping the vertical wall's upper, end, interior and exterior surfaces and thermal conductors disposed in the wall structure to be in thermal communication with one another, at least some of the conductors extending outwardly from the footing into the ground, the thermal conductors facilitating heat transfer between the ground and the vertical wall. |
| US07966776B2 |
Textured window well
A window well structure adapted to be disposed at least partially below grade and adjacent a window in a foundation. The window well structure includes a main body having a center wall portion and two opposing side wall portions. The window well structure may also include a decorative design on its front surface and a plurality of support ribs to reinforce the main body. Each of the support ribs may include a core comprised of a filler material, such as foam, and may be comprised of a composite material. |
| US07966770B1 |
Rounded shoe and position brake assembly for the counterbalance system of a tilt-in window
A counterbalance assembly for counterbalancing a tilt-in window sash within a guide track of a window frame. A brake shoe housing is provided having a face section and a rear section defined between a top edge, a bottom edge, and two side edges. At least one of the two side edges is a curved surface having a convex curvature. A curl spring is provided having a free end. The free end of the curl spring engages the brake shoe housing, therein applying a turning torque to the brake shoe housing that cocks the brake shoe housing and moves the curved surface into tangential contact with the guide track. A cam actuator is interposed between the face section and the rear section that spreads these sections into contact with the guide track when the tilt-in window sash is tilted forward. |
| US07966768B2 |
Staking system for growing container
A staking system for use with a self-watering growing container includes an outrigger structure at each longitudinal end. Each outrigger structure is mountable on the bottom of the growing container to provide stability. Two vertical stakes are attached to respective outrigger structures. Connectors at the top of each stake thus mount a horizontal stake element between the two connectors. A rim clamp secures the vertical stakes, clamping them on the lip of the plant growing container. |
| US07966766B2 |
Raised garden bed kit
The instant invention provides a kit for assembly of a raised garden bed. The raised garden bed includes panel members, corner connector members, and linear connector members constructed of a polymeric material and adapted to be snapped together into a substantially rigid raised garden bed without the need for special tools or excessive strength. A tongue and groove arrangement is also provided to allow for panel member stacking for increased garden bed height. The components of the kit are constructed and arranged to be packed into a relatively small profile for shipping and transport and are generally light enough to be loaded and unloaded without the need for equipment such as a forklift or pallet jack. |
| US07966760B2 |
Modular gunstock
The present invention is a modular stock system for rifles. The system replaces the rifle's buffer tube with a modified one containing a mount for a constant cheek weld and a rail track for adjustment. A stock module then mounts on the replacement buffer tube. The stock module is interchangeable depending on the user's needs. Various configurations of the stock module are discussed, including adjustable stocks, fixed stocks, and specialized stocks. The stock module may be made even further modular by the addition of rail system. |
| US07966759B2 |
Magazine firearm lock
A firearm lock that is inserted through the magazine port of a suitable firearm. The firearm lock extends from the magazine port into the bolt compartment of the firearm. The lock blocks the firearm bolt from returning from a retracted position, which may prevent the firearm from being disassembled, preventing circumvention of the lock. The lock may have a projection that can be moved into the magazine release mechanism recess to secure the lock in place. The firearm lock may be unlocked by hand or may require a key or a combination. |
| US07966758B2 |
Positionable file tab
A method and apparatus for improved file folder identification is described. The apparatus includes a file tab having a tab portion rotatably coupled to a base. In one embodiment, a file folder identification apparatus is described. The apparatus includes a base comprising a first coupling portion and a second coupling portion adapted to couple to a file folder, the second coupling portion opposing the first coupling portion, and a tab portion comprising a temporary fastener detachably and rotatably coupled to the second coupling portion and a face configured to retain identification information. |
| US07966754B2 |
Adapter for attaching a tool to a machine
An adapter for permitting non-standard work tools to be attached to a work machine for which they were not originally sized to fit. The adapter comprises a sleeve which fits into bores on the work machine. Pins for attaching the work tool to the machine in turn are inserted through the work tool and into the sleeves. The sleeves protect the joint through seals positioned both on an outer surface of a flange of the sleeve, and on an inner surface of the bore of the sleeve. The sleeves also include holes for permitting lubricant to pass from the sleeve's outer circumferential surface to its inner circumferential surface. The sleeves may be permitted to rotate relative to the work machine via bearings in the bores of the work machine. |
| US07966753B2 |
Snowplow laser guidance system
A snowplow laser guidance system is illustrated and described. The system can include, for example, a laser light source, a laser exit window through which a laser beam generated by the laser light source is transmitted, and a pressurized gas conduit. The pressurized gas conduit can have an opening positioned such that gas released through the opening flows across a face of the laser exit window. This can be useful to remove accumulated material, such as snow, ice, water, and dirt. The gas can be, for example, pressurized gas from a pressurized gas source of a snowplow vehicle. Release of pressurized gas across the face of the laser exit window can occur at a programmed frequency and/or in response to an operator signal, such as a signal from a switch on a control panel. The system also can include a heater connected to the laser exit window for defrosting. |
| US07966751B2 |
Sole with extensible structure
Sole with stretchable structure, in which the forepart is associated with a stretchable material to fit differing foot widths easily; and footwear equipped with such a sole. The sole base (1) comprises openings (4) in which the lugs (3) of the stretchable part (2) are positioned in a sealed manner. The insole (5) comprises a deformable structure (6) in its forepart. When the wearer's foot is put into a footwear article provided with such a complex, it exerts pressure on the edges of the upper (10) thus causing deformation of the sole, which avoids feelings of compression of the foot. |
| US07966749B2 |
Multi-chamber cushion for footwear
A resilient cushioning device for incorporation in an article of footwear has chambers interconnected by a corrugated passageway. The passageway fluidly connects a heel region having at least one chamber and a forefoot region having at least one chamber. The corrugation of the passageway make the passageway adjustable so that the resilient cushioning device fits a plurality of different articles of footwear. For example the passageway is adjustable so that it is expandable lengthwise so that the resilient cushioning device fits a plurality of sizes of articles and/or so that it bends sideways so that the resilient cushioning device fits a plurality of configurations of articles of footwear. |
| US07966746B2 |
Needle penetrable and laser resealable lyophilization method
A device and related method are provided for lyophilizing a substance within the device and storing therein the lyophilized substance. The device is penetrable by a needle for filling the device with the substance to be lyophilized, and a resulting needle hole in the device is laser resealable by transmitting thereon laser radiation from a laser source. The device defines a chamber for receiving therein the substance to be lyophilized. A needle penetrable and laser resealable portion of the device is pierceable with a needle to form a needle aperture therethrough to fill the chamber with the substance to be lyophilized through the needle, and is laser resealable to hermetically seal the needle aperture by applying laser radiation thereto. A filter is connectable in fluid communication between an interior and exterior of the chamber for permitting fluid to flow therethrough in a direction from the interior to the exterior of the chamber, and for substantially preventing contaminants from flowing therethrough in a direction from the exterior to the interior of the chamber. |
| US07966743B2 |
Micro-structured drying for inkjet printers
A dryer operable in close proximity to and in series with an inkjet printhead comprises a heat source and an air bearing structure on one side of the predetermined path and having a pressurized air inlet and an air outlet adjacent to the drying position of the receiver medium. Air flow from the air bearing structure outlet forms an air bearing for the receiver medium. A microporous filter positioned at the outlet and being adapted to convert the air flow from the outlet to a diffuse flow, the microporous filter being formed of an inner layer of very fine screen for optimum air diffusion and an outer layer of courser woven screen to add rigidity and protection from scuffing. |
| US07966739B2 |
Laser surveying system
A rotary laser projecting device comprising a reference plane forming unit that projects two or more fan-shaped laser beams, a distance measuring unit that projects distance measuring light, a rotator for projecting the fan-shaped laser beams and the distance measuring light by rotary irradiation, a horizontal angle detecting unit, a photodetection unit for receiving the reflected fan-shaped laser beams and the reflected distance measuring light, a storage unit, and a control arithmetic unit is disclosed. The control arithmetic unit measures elevation angle of the object reflector from time difference of photodetection between the two or more laser beams, measures horizontal angle of the object based on the result of detection of the horizontal angle detecting unit when at least one of the reflected fan-shaped laser beams and the reflected distance measuring light is received and the distance measuring unit measures a distance to the object to be measured. |
| US07966728B2 |
Method making ink feed slot through substrate
The described embodiments relate to methods and systems of forming slots in a substrate. One exemplary embodiment forms a feature into a substrate having a first substrate surface and a second substrate surface, and moves a sand drill nozzle along the substrate to remove substrate material sufficient to form, in combination with said forming, a slot through the substrate. |
| US07966727B2 |
Installation construction method for boiler facilities
An installation construction method is provided for boiler facilities in which the boiler facilities include a boiler building configured of a steel structure, a boiler main unit to be installed within the boiler building, various types of equipment to be installed to the boiler main unit, and accessory members which are accessory thereto. During construction of the boiler building, the various types of equipment and the accessory members are carried into the boiler building and installed. |
| US07966724B2 |
Conduit assembly methods
A method of assembling a conduit assembly can include seating a ferrule on a distal end portion of an elongate conduit body. The method can further include providing an elongate body insert having a large diameter end an a small diameter end, wherein the elongate body insert defines a hollow tubular body having a passage along a symmetrical axis between the large and small diameter ends. The method can further include mounting the end portion of the elongate conduit body on the small diameter end of the body insert, such that the large diameter end of the body insert contacts an end of the ferrule interposed axially between the large diameter end of the body insert and the distal end of the elongate conduit body, the distal end of the elongate conduit body axially adjacent the end of the ferrule to prevent axial contact between the distal end of the elongate conduit body and the large diameter end of the body insert. The method can further include compressing the elongate conduit body between the body insert and the ferrule, deploying a transmission line into the elongate conduit body wherein the transmission line comprises at least one of a hydraulic hose and an electrical cable, and pouring potting material into the elongate conduit body. |
| US07966723B2 |
Method for facilitating access to electronic components
An electronics component support assembly and an electronics system assembly employing the component support assembly are provided. The component support assembly includes a rotatable base support and a component connector assembly. The rotatable base support is sized to reside within an electronics enclosure and to operatively support multiple electronics components thereon. The component connector assembly is associated with the rotatable base support, and at least some electronics components of the multiple electronics components couple thereto when operatively supported by the rotatable base support. Rotation of the rotatable base support facilitates access to the multiple electronics components, and the component connector assembly allows for rotation of the rotatable base support with the multiple electronics components operatively supported on the rotatable base support. |
| US07966722B2 |
Planarization method in the fabrication of a circuit
Planarization methods for maintaining planar surfaces in the fabrication of such devices as BAW devices and capacitors on a planar or planarized substrate are described. In accordance with the method, a metal layer is deposited and patterned, and an oxide layer is deposited using a high density plasma chemical vapor deposition (HDP CVD) process to a thickness equal to the thickness of the metal layer. The HDP CVD process provides an oxide layer on the patterned metal tapering upward from the edge of the patterned metal layer. Then, after masking and etching the oxide layer from the patterned metal layer, the patterned metal layer and surrounding oxide layer form a substantially planar layer, interrupted by small remaining oxide protrusions at the edges of the patterned layer. These small remaining oxide protrusions may be too small to significantly disturb the flatness of a further oxide or other layer or they may be further mitigated by the application of another HDP CVD oxide film. |
| US07966721B2 |
Electronic component mounting method and electronic component mounting device
In order to mount an electronic component, a connection terminal of the electronic component is bonded to electrodes of a substrate. This is done by using solder paste which mixes solder particles in a thermosetting adhesive. The solder paste is supplied to the electrodes and a recess. Solder print parts are formed. The electronic component is mounted and the connection terminal and the main body of the electronic component are adhered to the solder print parts, and are heated in this state by reflow. As a result, the connection terminal and the electrodes are bonded by a solder junction. |
| US07966719B2 |
Set head
A set head for setting clip nuts on workpieces by means of pushing, having at least one channel embodied in the set head, which (channel) ends at one front end of the set head in an output or mounting opening, with which the set head can be positioned for setting the clip nuts on workpieces. |
| US07966713B2 |
Tooling head mounted structural positioning
Embodiments of tool mounted structural positioning devices and techniques are described. In one embodiment, a positioning device includes mountings to mount the device directly to a tool device configured to travel a path and perform a manufacturing operation on an element. Engagement mechanisms coupled to the positioning device are aligned to the predefined path and are configured to exert a clamping force upon the element such that the element is secured and positioned by the positioning device in constant relation to the predefined path as the operations are performed. |
| US07966707B2 |
Method for repairing superalloy components using inserts
A method for forming or remanufacturing a component to have an internal space. A refractory metal blocking element is formed, in situ, with at least a portion to be within the internal space. A material is added by at least one of welding, laser cladding, and diffusion brazing, the blocking element at least partially blocking entry of the material to the internal space. The blocking element is removed. |
| US07966705B2 |
Self-piercing blind rivet
A self-piercing blind fastener comprising a mandrel having an elongate cylindrical shell mounted on a stem of such mandrel and which extends co-axially about a central elongate axis of the blind fastener, the shell having a radially extending flange at one end and a tail-end portion at the opposite end for insertion through a workpiece, the mandrel further having a mandrel head in operative engagement with the tail-end of the fastener for transmitting a setting force thereto during setting of such fastener, the blind fastener further comprising a longitudinally extending indenting member extending co-axial with and away from the tail-end of the blind fastener, which indenting member having a cross sectional area less than the cross sectional area of the shell. |
| US07966703B2 |
Clamp for securing shuttering panels
The clamp comprises two substantially L-shaped members, arranged opposite each other, articulated on an intermediate support on which rest the lateral profile sections of the frames of the panels to be clamped, one of the arms of each of the L-shaped members having an end profile adapted for its coupling to the profile sections to be clamped, while the other arm of each of said L-shaped members receives a displacement action in order to effect its rotation from a mechanism incorporated in the intermediate support, intended to effect the opening and closing of the L-shaped members of the clamp. |
| US07966702B2 |
EA member, and clip and structure for securing the same
An energy absorption (EA) member is provided with a clip, and a structure for securing the EA member. A clip 20 has a flange 21, a shaft 22 projecting from the flange 21, an anchor 23 spreading from an end of the shaft 22, a cut 24 provided in the anchor 23, and a locking section 30 projecting from the flange 21 on a side opposite the shaft 22. The locking section 30 has a cylindrical upright segment 31 standing upright from the flange 21, and a resilient locking piece 32 projecting laterally from the side surface of the upright segment 31. The EA member 1 is put on metal panel 2A or 2B while the clip 20 is inserted into a hole 4 provided in the metal panel 2A or 2B. A projecting point 40 is passed through the hole 4, to hold the EA member 1 to the metal panel. |
| US07966700B2 |
Belt clip with breakaway safety feature
The invention includes a belt clip for mounting objects to a user's belt. The belt clip has a resilient U-shaped member portion and a hollow hanger member. The resilient U-shaped member portion having an upper end and a lower end with a U-bend portion at the upper end and parallel inner and outer walls extending downwardly from the U-bend. A gap is defined between the inner and outer walls for slidably engaging a belt. The hollow hanger member portion protrudes outwardly from the outer wall of the U-shaped member portion and has a generally downwardly facing wall with an aperture extending therethrough. The aperture provides a means for mounting objects to the belt. |
| US07966698B2 |
Modular hinge for handheld electronic devices
A modular hinge for mechanically connecting first and second parts of a handheld electronic device, said modular hinge comprising at least two hinge elements, each hinge element comprising an arm and a boss with a through hole for receiving wiring for electrically connecting the first and second parts, said arm being rotatably mounted on said boss, and wherein the hinge elements are mounted on a bracket with said through holes in alignment. |
| US07966697B2 |
Hinges
A hinge has two leaves (11″), (13″) connected by a hinge pin (42″) retained in alternate sleeves (17″), (19″) on the facing edges of the two leaves, with limited axial movement of the hinge leaves relative to one another along the pin. A spring (46″) biases the leaves towards one end of this movement, where sleeves (19″) on one leaf (13″) have slots (74, 84) at one axial end and sleeves (17″) are axially preceded by flanges (76) which, according to the angular opening of the hinge, either abut the ends of the respective sleeves (19″) or enter one or other of the slots (74, 84). When the flange (76) abuts the sleeve end, the hinge is free to rotate, but when the hinge reaches an opening angle at which spring pressure causes the flange (76) to enter one or other of the slots, the hinge is locked. It can be released by manually sliding the locked sleeves (17″), (19″) apart against the spring pressure. |
| US07966696B2 |
Hinge having a damping device
A hinge, particularly for movable pieces of furniture, has at least two stop parts connected in an articulated manner (which is to say a hinge arm and a hinge cup) for fastening to pieces of furniture. The hinge has a damping device for damping the hinge movement, and has a restoring mechanism, by which an actuating element of the damping device can be moved into a starting position for the next damping stroke after damping has taken place. The damping device and the restoring mechanism are disposed as separate components on the hinge cup. The damping device, which has no restoring mechanism, is disposed on a lateral wall of the hinge cup, and the restoring mechanism is disposed on an opposing lateral wall of the hinge cup. |
| US07966683B2 |
Method for operating a steam generator in a fabric treatment appliance
A method of controlling the operation of a steam generator in a fabric treatment appliance may include setting an operational temperature for the steam generator based on calcification of the steam generator. A change in the calcification of the steam generator may be determined by behavior of the actual temperature of the steam generator in response to changing a flow rate of water supplied to the steam generator. |
| US07966681B2 |
Multi-function pipe cutting and fitting tool
A multi-function pipe cutting and fitting tool includes a spring biased connecting rod, a pair of plier teeth and a pair of friction teeth. The spring biased connecting rod improves the pipe cutting function of the tool by improving the operation of a movable jaw toward engagement of a fixed jaw. The pair of plier teeth positioned on one side of the tool allows a user to firmly grip a pipe or other object to be held in place. The pair of friction teeth positioned on an opposite side of the tool allows a user to more reliably engage an object such as a cap on a can of glue. The inclusion of all of these features in the same tool allows a user to perform multiple functions easily and more rapidly. |
| US07966678B2 |
Infant care bed with evaluation capabilities
An infant care bed for supporting an infant having incorporated therein, certain testing and evaluation devices to carrying out the evaluation of an infant in a medical care facility. The apparatus can carry out at least one of the following tests on the infant: determining the weight of an infant, determining the sucking strength of an infant, determining the ability of the infant to hear certain frequencies and determining the bilirubin level of the infant's blood. The infant care bed includes a computer with a memory device such that the hospital can input a customized protocol of the tests to be performed on the infant and the criteria for passing the tests. A data input allows the personnel to input test results and a display provides an account of the tests performed and the tests not performed to assure that all of the tests required by the protocol are conducted. |
| US07966676B2 |
Toilet bowl flushing water tank device
The present invention provides a toilet bowl flushing water tank device which can largely open a discharge valve element instantaneously and, at the same time, can ensure a relatively large space in the vicinity of a discharge valve device thus enhancing a discharge capacity with a small power. A push button mounted on a tank lid body of a flushing water tank body is arranged at a position offset to one side from a position where a discharge opening is formed, a leverage device is constituted of a lever which is interlockingly connected to the discharge valve element and a pedestal which pivotally supports a middle portion of the lever. The pedestal pivotally supports a middle portion of the lever at a position closer to a push button side than the discharge valve device. |
| US07966675B2 |
Dumpster and portable toilet system
A combination dumpster and portable toilet system is disclosed and described. The housing provides an enclosure for collection of refuse. The housing also provides for secure stowage of portable toilets to and from a worksite, as well as protection of the portable toilets from falling debris, theft and vandalism. |
| US07966671B2 |
Headwear
Disclosed is a headwear which has remarkably improved stretch property and comfortably fits for the head of a wearer. The headwear comprises a head receiving part made of a multiple fabric and a sweatband peripherally attached to an inner side of the head receiving part along a lower edge thereof. Since the multiple fabric has much more improved stretch property than the stretchable fabric of the conventional free size cap, the headwear can fit a very wide range of head sizes and provide a comfortable sense of wearing, without any sense of pressing even though the cap is used for a long time. |
| US07966670B2 |
Multipurpose glove
A multipurpose glove is disclosed which comprises a relatively resilient body for snug fit reception of a user's hand. The body includes a first opening on a first side for receiving the user's hand, a second opening branching from a second side of the body for receiving the user's thumb, and a plurality of third openings oriented multidirectionally. Each of the third openings receives at least one finger of the user, and at least one of the third openings has a size and shape suitable for receiving and supporting at least two of the user's fingers generally simultaneously upon engagement of the glove with the user's hand. A contoured, resilient pad is mounted in a base portion of the body corresponding to and for engaging the palm of the user's hand. |
| US07966667B2 |
Garment with underarm externally accessible breast pockets and method of use
A garment with underarm externally accessible breast pockets and method of use. An upper body garment is disclosed having garment sleeves attached to a garment trunk, and a pocket mouth disposed under each garment sleeve. A pocket is attached to the garment trunk at each pocket mouth. A passenger positioned behind a driver wearing the upper body garment may insert hands and arms through the pocket mouths and into the pockets for warmth, security, and or intimacy enhancement. Divots sized to accept human fingertips may be attached to the pocket floors for increased security of grip. Alternate embodiment garments include divots sized to accept fingertips on the front outside of a garment or life preserver, and hand indentations sized to accept the palm side of a human hand on the front outside of a garment or life preserver. Methods of use are disclosed. |